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

A wave rumbled closer behind him. Rob closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and fell backwards against the swale. As his back hit the water, he felt himself shift in one smooth motion. He kept leaning backwards as he dove into a loopy movement.


He blinked in the salty water. His whiskers quivered as he took in his surroundings. A few smaller fish darted back and forth around him, but overall the sea was still and empty. The ocean floor was mostly smooth sand, studded with the occasional rock or horseshoe crab. Stray clumps of seaweed clotted the sand and drifted lazily through the current. A small jellyfish wobbled past unhurriedly.


Rob jumped as Jack began to circle him in all directions. He swam a few experimental laps, with pauses to poke his head up to the surface for air and observation. Jack splashed him and started to swim north, parallel to the coastline. Rob hastened to follow him.


Chapter 10