Prologue
“WARN THEM,” a distantvoice roared. “Savehim.”
Madison looked down only to realize she wore the same green dress she always did in these dreams. Stood in the same sweeping meadow. Gazed through the twilight at the same castle ruins.
“Hurry,” the voice bellowed. “Run!”
So she did, racing toward the castle with a stronger sense of urgency than usual. A desperation that tightened her chest. Thickened her throat. Made tears well.
What if she was too late?
What if she let him down?
Where she typically ran but never got closer, this time she did. Far closer. Inside the castle in an instant. Yet she saw nothing but bits and pieces. Glimpses of a great hall not abandoned but thriving with activity.
Then she felt him.
Somewhere close.
Right next to her.
Then far away.
Seconds later, she was in the woodland. Drifting through the forest. On his horse with him. She breathed in his spicy scent. Felt the heat of his body.
“Help him,” came the voice again. “Helpthem.”
Who? Where were they? Her sense of urgency grew. Her need to help. As if in answer, a monstrous oak tree appeared. Filled her with glimpses of something just out of reach. Helped her connect somehow. Made them understand.
Himunderstand.
She pointed toward danger, eager to warn him. Rescue him. Be with him.Knowhim.
Against her.
In her.
Touching her.
She groaned when she felt him close again. Kissing her. Owning her flesh.
Ready to take her.
Thenswoosh, he was gone.
And all hell broke loose before she jolted awake.
