The Seven: Four tales of passion, danger and love Read Online Free

opening up to receive impressions.
    Nothing.
    What? That wasn’t right. She took in a slow deep breath and tried again.
    Nothing.
    What the hell?
    She opened her eyes to find all three men watching her. She blinked and rolled over, turning her back to them. That had to be the best course of action, right? Surely, they couldn't have sensed that she was trying to eavesdrop on their thoughts.
    And it's smart to turn your back on someone who kidnapped you, right?
    Shit, that inner voice sure knew how to cause a knot to twist in her gut. Layla threw off the spread, rolled over and sat up. The men were still looking in her direction. Now what?
    "I'm ready to leave."
    The Bull Man cut a look at August and smirked. The raven-haired man didn't react at all. Augustus just stared at her for a long moment then gestured toward her. "Gentlemen, meet Layla Storm. Layla, I believe you've met Connor." He gestured toward the giant who nodded at her with another smirk.
    "And Andre." He gestured toward the raven-haired man.
    Andre inclined his head. "Miss Storm." His voice carried a heavy accent but was melodious and soft.
    Layla's upbringing stepped in and she nodded to the men. Her mother would have slapped her upside the head if she'd demonstrated impoliteness, even in this extreme circumstance. "Gentlemen. I'd like to say it is a pleasure but …"
    She paused for dramatic affect before bounding to her feet. "…I've had enough of your company so if you'll excuse me, I'll be leaving now."
    Connor outright laughed as she cut Augustus a look she hoped spelled that he better not try and stop her. She marched to the door, flung it open, and cut a look back into the room.
    She should have stopped moving. For the second time since she'd been wherever she was, she ran right into something. Hands grabbed her upper arms to stabilize her and the touch sent something sizzling through her that almost made her eyes roll back in her head.
    Bliss. It's the only concept that came to mind. Bliss. She damn near passed out it was so strong. Had the hands not released her she might have. She looked at the owner of the hands and consciousness threatened to flee.
    "Holy shit."
    It was an Angel. An honest to goodness Angel. With white wings, long flowing blonde hair, and a body that looked like it had been carved by Michelangelo, he was almost too beautiful to be real. However, there he was, looking at her with a smile on his face.
    "And hello to you, too." The drop-dead-gorgeous Angel greeted her.
    "Oh, this is too … are you real?"
    "Yes, I assure you I am. I'm Gabriel."
    Hold the deal Lucille! "Gabriel? As in Archangel Gabriel?"
    "Well, I am an Archangel and my name is Gabriel but I assure you I am not the Archangel on record within the Christian tome."
    Layla was at a loss for a moment. This was freaking incredible. And slowing you down.
    "I'm Layla and I have to go now so – hey hold on, if you're an Angel then tell that Vampire to let me go. I don't belong here and I want to leave."
    Gabriel smiled and shrugged. "Sorry, he kind of calls the shots around here."
    "Say what?"
    He looked around her, into the room. "Augustus, I realize you're a man of few words, but you could have at least done her the courtesy of explaining where she is and what this place is."
    Layla turned her head and smirked at Augustus who had a bit of a frown on his face. "Yeah, really."
    "Very well."
    "Huh?"
    "Please, come in and have a seat and I will explain."
    Layla hesitated. She was curious but she also wanted to leave. Remember what happened last time? Her inner companion had a point. As incredible as that kiss had been, she didn't think she was ready for a repeat performance. She had no desire to be charmed or whatever it was called, by a Vampire. She had things to do and places to go.
    Nevertheless, she was curious and she could spare a few minutes, especially if it gave her fodder for a story. "Fine." She returned inside the house and reclaimed her seat on the couch.