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

“You don’t mind now,”Alex laughed. “I shall ask you again in a few hours and see if your answer has changed.”


Rob walked over to the empty chair and sat down with purpose. He grabbed a pod in one hand and pointed it towards Alex. “Bring it on.”


Alex smiled. “Consider it brought.” He walked over to another table, covered in papers and test tubes in various colors. “I’ve got to take care of something else, but I should be finished shortly.”


“Take your time,” Rob said as he started to peel the first petal from his pod. “I’ve got this.”


Rob was happy to find that he had a real knack for peeling pods and fishing out the little green buggers that hid inside. He found the repetitiveness of the task soothing, a way to turn off his brain from all the inane chatter that had been filling it for the past few weeks.


Chapter 22