After decades of searching, Rob has finally found others who are like him. Magical beings who can shift form and charm humans; the Hidden Ones. A beach house in a sleepy shore town is home to an eclectic group of shifters, all outcasts in their own way, yet fiercely bonded together by choice. Rob is particularly drawn to Jack, the unofficial leader of the group, who immediately takes a shine to him, as well. Magic brings answers to questions Rob has had for years; about his health, his history, as well as his future. Rob grows closer to each of his new roommates, and eventually forges a romantic relationship with Jack. But even as Rob becomes more immersed in the magical world, Jack seems to be pulling back. Tensions rise as Jack's temper flares and old wounds reopen. Can Rob be able to find a way to keep his relationship with Jack strong without sacrificing his newfound freedom?

The Hidden Ones

Jack had steered the bike around at the southernmost point of the barrier island and headed up the bay side. They’d travelled the entire two and a half mile length of the island before turning south again at the bridge.


The bike pulled off the main road and sputtered to a stop beside a large dune. Jack pulled off his helmet and grinned at Rob over his shoulder.


“Here we are,” he said. “One of the best swimming spots.”


Rob removed his own helmet and handed it to Jack as he slid off the bike. As he surveyed the beach entry, he noticed a familiar house about half a mile south. “Is that your house?”


“What?” Jack was wheeling the bike over to an old section of ramshackle fence. He squinted in the direction that Rob had pointed. “Oh, yeah. That’s it.” He hooked his helmet over one handlebar. Rob’s was balanced precariously on the seat.


“We could have walked here,” Rob pointed out.


Chapter 9