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

Anya blinked. Her face remained stoic, but she didn’t argue. She picked up her tablet from the side table and looked down at it intently.


Aaron sighed and followed Jack out to the balcony. Rob watched as Aaron elbowed Jack, plucked the joint from his fingers, and inhaled. He turned back to the group, his brow furrowed in confusion.


Anya didn’t look up from her tablet. Kayla and Alex looked at each other for a moment. Alex nodded, and Kayla turned to Rob.


“Adrian was a Hidden who lived with us for a while. A few years back, now.” She cleared her throat and glanced at Alex before continuing. “Jack got pretty close to them. The two of them clicked, you know? And for Jack, that’s a big deal. He doesn’t…it’s hard for him to connect.”


Rob nodded. He could certainly see that being the case. Being generally sociable was not the same thing as making genuine connections.


Chapter 27