Lost Mermaid. Werewolf Protector.

When Zach Cantrell’s mermaid sister disappears, he goes looking for answers. What he finds instead is Shayla Dover, a mermaid princess moonlighting as a paranormal investigator. Even for a mermaid, she’s mesmerizingly gorgeous... Not that it should matter to Zach. His marriage has already been arranged. Shayla has her own reasons to keep her distance from this sexy shifter.

But, after an attack on Shayla’s life, their undeniable attraction quickly grows into something much deeper. Soon they find themselves pitted in a race against time amid a sea of lies, betrayal and an enemy that threatens them both...

Outside, in the deserted alley, she turned to him. Surprised, he gazed down at her, waiting to hear what she wanted to say.

Instead, she pulled him down and kissed him.

There was no hesitation on the sensual movement of her lips on his. The first touch ignited a fire. He tugged her close, body to body, and kissed her back.

Emotions—desire, certainly, but something stronger—flared. He lost track of time, forgot where they were, because everything about her filled up his entire world. He wanted to push her up against the wall and make love to her right then, right there.

When they finally broke apart, each was breathing hard.

“I want you,” she said, her forehead resting against his chest.

“I want you too,” he replied.

KAREN WHIDDON started weaving fanciful tales for her younger brothers at the age of eleven. Amid the gorgeous Catskill Mountains, then the majestic Rocky Mountains, she fueled her imagination with the natural beauty surrounding her. Karen now lives in North Texas, writes full-time and volunteers for a boxer dog rescue. She shares her life with her hero of a husband and four to five dogs, depending on if she is fostering. You can email Karen at kwhiddon1@aol.com. Fans can also check out her website, www.karenwhiddon.com.

The Texas Shifter’s Mate

Karen Whiddon

www.millsandboon.co.uk

Dear Reader,

I’ve always, always, always wanted to write a mermaid book. Timing or whatever never worked out and I’m pleased to have been finally able to write my mermaid heroine—and a handsome, wolf shape-shifter hero.

For this story, I returned to Galveston, Texas, a location I’ve visited many times over the years since my husband’s sister lives there. There’s a lot of history on this island, and it seemed the perfect place to set a story like this. Creating The Shadow Agency was fun, too, and I’d hoped to write more books featuring this paranormal investigative agency, but it wasn’t meant to be.

I hope you enjoy this story. Love, missing women, crazed evil scientists and the ocean—what more can anyone ask for!

Happy reading!

Karen Whiddon

Dedicated to animal rescuers everywhere.

Those who work in the trenches, saving lives, fostering, transporting, evaluating, doing home visits for potential adopters and showing animals love so they can find their forever homes.

I salute you!

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

About the Author

Title Page

Dear Reader

Dedication

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Extract

Copyright

Chapter 1

The heavy oak door, scarred and weathered, looked like it had been salvaged from an ancient medieval castle. Above, a simple sign. No words, just a rusted iron bar from which hung two chain links, each half of what had once been whole. There were no lanterns, not even a streetlight to illuminate the shadows. The entrance sat near the end of a dead-end alley, innocuous enough that no soul, human or otherwise, would give it a second glance. Unless of course, one knew what lay inside. No humans ever would.

Shayla Dover had learned of Broken Chains, the bar behind the battered door, from her friend Maddie Kinslow, who happened to be a Shape-shifter. They’d met at a spin class. Maddie had known right away that Shayla wasn’t human, and hadn’t batted even an eyelash when Shayla had revealed her true nature. Of course, during her first visit with Maddie to Broken Chains, Shayla had learned being a Mermaid in human form wasn’t even the most uncommon of the numerous paranormal beings frequenting the bar.

Broken Chains accepted everyone. The only criteria—no human could ever enter. Vampires, Shape-shifters of all types, as well as Mermaids, Spirits and Wraiths mingled free of judgments, vendettas or complaints. A live band played most nights, rotating groups with enough different genres of music to suit all tastes. The small dance floor stayed crowded, and snagging a table became a matter of luck and skill.

Alcohol was sold, as well as specialty beverages that suited each particular kind of clientele. One sign boasted that Broken Chains carried twenty-seven varieties of blood, especially popular among the Vampire crowd.

Shayla loved the place. For the first time since making the choice to live on land, she felt she had found a spot where she belonged as much as she did under the sea.

While she’d known Houston and areas south of there had to be teeming with non-humans, she hadn’t given much thought to the sheer variety of species. In Broken Chains, she’d met numerous Shape-shifters, Vampires and even a Merfolk or two. From Maddie, Shayla had learned how many different kinds of Shape-shifters there actually were. The Wolves, along with their governing body, the Pack, were the most numerous. But there were Lions and Leopards and Bears, even Dragons! Of course, some considered the Merfolk a kind of Shape-shifter, since they could change their beautiful, shimmering fish tail into human legs. None of that mattered once inside Broken Chains. Everyone was welcome.

Tonight, Shayla and Maddie were meeting for drinks after Maddie got off work. Maddie worked as a police dispatcher for Galveston PD and hated her job.

Shayla was self-employed, doing well running an internet business she’d founded specializing in rare artifacts found under the sea. Though she occasionally loved to scour the ocean floor, her family also gladly kept her supplied with inventory. The market for collectors, until now untapped, seemed limitless. Due to the priceless nature of her inventory, she only needed one or two big sales per quarter to be prosperous. Most times she did much better than that. She loved being an entrepreneur, loved the treasure-hunting aspect of her work and enjoyed the income her job provided.

Still, despite her success, she found herself often at loose ends. She’d begun thinking about what other type of business she might start. Maybe something that Maddie could help out with, something that would get her friend away from her stressful dispatcher job.

Shayla arrived a few minutes early, rapping three times on the door and waiting, before repeating the sequence with two extra beats tagged on to the end.

The door opened, just as it always did, and Shayla sauntered inside. Instantly, she felt a sense of peace. Funny thing to consider a bar her home away from home, but she did.

The band tonight—one of Shayla’s favorites—played a slow bluesy song, a melody that made Shayla want to twirl and sway. Maybe later, she’d dance. Glancing around the already crowded bar, she grinned to see Maddie had snagged a table. Maddie stood, waving to get her attention. Waving back, Shayla hurried over, happy she’d spent the time to turn her long black hair into a thick braid.

“Glad you made it early,” Maddie said, grinning. Her curly red hair hung loose around her shoulders. “I’ve been here an hour, circling like a hawk on a hunt, until I got this table.”

“I can’t believe it’s already so crowded.” Shayla glanced around as she pulled out a chair to sit. “It’s a Tuesday night. Look at all the tourists in their beachwear. I feel overdressed.”

“Pffft.” Maddie snorted. “You live to wear those cute little dresses and your heels. Heck, if I had a figure like you, I’d wear them, too.”

“A figure like mine?” Shayla eyed her friend’s lush curves. “I’m a toothpick. You’re the one with the figure. I can barely fill out my B cup.”

“I’d rather be skinny.” Maddie shrugged. “But isn’t that the way of things? We always want what we don’t have.”

“Maybe.” Shayla didn’t believe in wasting time pining for things she couldn’t have. And truth be told, she considered herself lucky. Just like her mom, she could eat whatever she wanted and never gain weight. She’d also learned long ago never ever to say that to another woman.

“The place is full of Vampires,” Maddie grumbled. “Who knew they enjoyed vacationing at the coast?”

Shayla had to grin at the Shifter’s disgruntled tone. While they generally got along, Vamps and Shifters had a natural reserve with each other. This despite the fact that Maddie and her were also best friends with Carmen, who happened to be a Vampire. Shayla enjoyed pointing out to each of them that they were the poster children for each giving the other species a fair chance.

“Speaking of Vamps...” Shayla glanced at her watch. “Where’s Carmen? She should have been here by now.”

“I know.” Maddie glanced around. “She’s lucky we saved her a chair. It’ll be completely full in another hour. This place is becoming more and more popular. Used to be I knew everyone in here. Now, it’s about half and half.”

“More strangers, more potential new friends. It’s all good.” Shayla signaled at Johnny, her favorite bartender. He nodded and a minute later brought her a glass of white wine, a nice chardonnay, her usual. Maddie already had her beer, a dark one this time.

The band announced they were taking a break and left the stage. While she’d enjoyed the music, Shayla was glad since this would give her and Maddie an opportunity to talk without having to shout.

“How’s things at the job?” Shayla asked. Maddie always had great stories about the drama going on both inside her emergency communication call center and in the outside world. Shayla loved hearing these, since her own work was so solitary.

“I don’t know how much longer I can take it there.” Maddie’s usually ready smile vanished. “With the tourism season upon us, crimes are skyrocketing. They’re demanding we work more hours to cover the personnel shortages. All of us are exhausted and miserable and crabby. I almost didn’t get off work in time to make it here. One of my coworkers had to cover the last hour for me.”

“That sounds rough,” Shayla commiserated, even though she had no real frame of reference.

“Oh, it’s only just starting. First, we have spring break, which is next week. And then, you know how things are once summer arrives. The island is packed.” Shaking her head, Maddie took a slug of beer. “They know I take night classes at Texas A&M Galveston. I can’t miss those, but my supervisor told me the job has to come first. I don’t think they can force me to work mandatory overtime, but who knows.” She sighed. “I’ve already paid for this semester, so if I don’t attend class, I forfeit the fees. I’m working on redoing my resume so I can see what other employment might be available.”

This was the first time her friend had mentioned leaving her job. “I could maybe give you some part-time work,” Shayla offered. “But it wouldn’t pay as much. And it’d be extremely part-time. I don’t have a lot extra that I can’t do myself. In fact, I was thinking of finding something else to help occupy my time.”

Maddie tilted her head, smiling once again. “You’re so sweet for offering. Actually, I might take you up on it if they drive me insane enough. Who knows, maybe I can cobble together several part-time jobs and make it work.”

“Maybe we can start our own business,” Shayla mused. “If you could do anything, what kind of work would you like to do?”

“Private detective work.” Maddie didn’t even hesitate. “You know my father owned a PI agency. I worked there from the moment I could walk. I hated that Mom sold it after Dad died.”

At that moment, Derek, the bass guitarist, and Rory, the lead singer, came over to chat. Their band played Broken Chains several times a month, and the two men continually asked Shayla and Maddie out, alternating which man asked whom. Both women found them amusing, but had no desire to mess up the fun dynamic they currently enjoyed with the band.

The drummer, Waylan, wandered over, reminding the others it was nearly time to get back onstage. Shayla and Maddie shared amused looks as Rory and Derek took their leave, promising to stop back before the evening ended.

“Hey,” Maddie said, motioning to Shayla that she should lean in closer. “Don’t look now, but the man right behind you has been eating you up with his eyes. Messy, dark blond hair, silver-blue eyes and a body to die for.” She sighed. “He’s drop-dead gorgeous, so you’d better hope he comes over.”

Feigning interest, Shayla nodded, though she didn’t turn around. Instead, she took a sip of wine and focused on the band, who were now getting ready to play another song.

* * *

The two women sitting at the table right behind his bar stool were both stunning. When he swiveled around to face the band, they were right there in his line of vision, their beauty a welcome diversion from his dark thoughts. Zach couldn’t keep from staring despite his preoccupation with finding Nantha. One of the women’s auras revealed her to be Shifter, and he’d bet the other, the slender gorgeous dark-eyed one with long, jet-black hair, was Mermaid. He’d spent enough time with his younger stepsister, Nantha, and her pretty Mermaid friends to recognize that certain glow in their aura.

Pretty didn’t even begin to describe this woman. Heart-shaped face, high cheekbones and lithe, graceful movements combined to make her breathtakingly gorgeous. Her long-lashed, emerald eyes spoke of Asian heritage, and the curve of her lush lips revealed her sensuality.

There wasn’t a single man in the bar who hadn’t noticed her or her redheaded friend. They were both stunning and sexy, in opposite ways.

Any other time, Zach might have approached the table with a flirtatious smile, offering to buy her a drink in exchange for a dance. However, now that he’d agreed to an engagement arranged by his stepfather, his flirting days were over. He could only fervently pray that his fiancée, a Mermaid he hadn’t yet met, resembled this one.

Right now though, he had more urgent and pressing business on his mind. Nantha had gone missing and he needed to find her. He’d come to Broken Chains with the intention of asking every Merfolk in the place if they’d seen her.

Might as well start now. He turned, locking gazes with the raven-haired Mermaid. Hounds, he felt the impact of her beauty like a punch in the gut. Even by Mermaid standards, she was gorgeous. Her eyes were the deep green of a stormy sea, framed in long, jet-black lashes. The pout of her lush lips had him longing to claim them with his. Damn. Summoning up all his willpower, he pushed the jolt of attraction aside and stood. Both women eyed him as he took the couple of steps necessary to bring him to their table.

Of course right at that moment, the band started playing again.

“Excuse me,” he said loudly, wishing the music could have held off a few more minutes. “Have either of you seen this woman?” He passed the redhead a picture of Nantha, one of his favorite ones of his younger stepsister. He well remembered the day that snapshot had been taken. Nantha had been about to return home after a visit. She’d stood in knee-deep water, filled with the joy the touch of the sea seemed to give its people. The full moon reflected on the calm night sea colored everything with a silver tranquility. She looked young, carefree and happy.

The red-haired Shifter shook her head, handing the photo to her friend.

The Mermaid’s long-lashed eyes widened as she accepted the photograph. She inhaled sharply, her gaze rushing from Nantha’s image to his. Of course, she immediately recognized that Nantha was Mer. “She’s lovely,” she finally said, raising her voice to be heard over the music. She passed it back. “But I’m sorry, I haven’t seen her. When was she in here last?”

“She hasn’t been here. She’s too young.” He swallowed, trying to contain his disappointment. Of course it wouldn’t be that easy. It never was. “Her name is Nantha. She’s my sister, and she’s missing.”

The two women exchanged glances. The red-haired Shifter looked Zach up and down. “What happened to her?” she asked. “How do you know she’s missing? She might just be taking a long swim or something.”

The Mermaid nodded. “We have been known to disappear under the sea for extended periods of time. I’m guessing, though, that you have more reasons that make you think something has happened to her?”

“I do.” He didn’t elaborate. Instead, he dragged his gaze away from the attractive pair and began scanning the bar for other Merfolk he could ask.

“I’m Maddie,” the Shifter woman said. “And this is my friend Shayla. We’ll do our best to help, but I need more information. Such as where and when? What exactly happened to give you reason to be concerned? I work as a police dispatcher, and details are always helpful.”

“She has a point,” Shayla agreed, noting his hesitation. “I get that you’d planned on walking around asking everyone in here if they’d seen her, but if you really want help finding your sister, we’ll need a few details.”

Briefly, he considered. She was right, about giving out more information. “She’s actually my stepsister,” he said. “My mother married her father, Ion. They come on land for weekend visits.” Which wasn’t at all unusual. Lots of Merfolk enjoyed experiencing life out of the water for short periods of time. Of course, Shayla already would know that.

“So she disappeared here, on Galveston Island?”

“Yes. She and her father were about to return home to the sea, and she went out for a walk. She always loves to walk the edge of Stewart Beach. The far end, near the rocks. Right around sunset, when the crowds thin out.” He swallowed hard. “She had a habit of doing this every time before she and Ion went back under the sea. But this time, she didn’t come back.”

Shayla nodded. “I see. That area is particularly beautiful.”

“And dangerous,” the redhead interjected. “Especially when the tide comes in.”

“Not for a Mermaid.” Both Zach and Shayla spoke at the same time. He caught himself exchanging a quick look of recognition with her. He might be Pack, but he’d spent enough time around his sister and stepfather to know more than usual about the Merfolk.

“Zach Cantrell,” he said, introducing himself. “Nice to meet you, Shayla and Maddie. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got to show her picture around and see if anyone might have seen her. It’s a long shot, but right now it’s all I have.”

“Wait, hold on.” Maddie pinned him with a fierce stare. “You still haven’t given us any usable information.”

“Like what?”

“Like, did she have any enemies? Anyone you can think of who might have wanted to do her harm?”

Shayla made a groan of protest.

“Sorry,” Maddie said, sounding anything but. “This is necessary. Most people are abducted by someone they know.” Waving her hand, she included Zach in her gesture. “This could really help. We need to get all the facts.”

To his amazement, he realized she’d taken out a pad of paper and a pen and had begun jotting down notes.

Shayla saw him looking at her friend’s paper and shrugged. “She works as a police dispatcher. She’s good. If you really want her to help find your sister, give her as much information as you can.”

Shifting his weight from foot to foot, he cleared his throat. While he really hadn’t planned on having extended conversations with anyone, he figured this actually might be helpful.

“Pull up a chair,” Maddie ordered without looking up. “Start at the beginning.”

Not sure whether to allow himself to feel hopeful, he gave in and sat. Some of his dejection must have shown, because to his shock, Shayla reached out and placed her small hand over his.

This simple act of comfort made his throat tighten, even though he had to restrain himself from jerking his hand away. The gesture seemed too intimate somehow, though no doubt this feeling was extremely one-sided, due to the depth of his attraction to her.

When she finally moved, he could breathe again. Aware he couldn’t show his relief, he looked anywhere but at her. Despite that, he couldn’t help but be far too conscious of her every movement, the way she shifted slightly in her chair, her graceful movement as she reached for her wineglass and took a small sip.

He cleared his throat. “There’s not a lot to tell. Nothing unusual happened that weekend. Nantha and her father Ion came ashore Friday afternoon for a weekend visit. As usual, they came ashore on the private beach near my mother’s house. I met them at our meeting place, a rocky cove that’s roped off and marked as dangerous to humans.”

“Which kept it mostly free from both locals and tourists alike,” Shayla added. “Most humans are pretty good about obeying the signs.”

He nodded. Though it had only been two days, that evening would forever be impressed in his memory. Like always, Ion and Nantha had swum up to the rocks with the sea caressing them. They’d poked their heads up out of the choppy waves, waiting for Zach to give them the all-clear signal before they climbed up on the rocks and changed their form. Sparking lights surrounded them as they did, reflecting on the water like a thousand fireflies. Though the light show was identical to what happened when Zach shape-shifted into Wolf, the combination of water and lights never failed to mesmerize him.

Fifteen years ago, when Zach’s mother had announced she was marrying a Merman with a young Mermaid daughter, Zach had been skeptical. But even at ten years old, Zach had seen his mother’s grief over his father’s passing become a kind of stoic acceptance. She’d been lonely and sad, and she’d directed all her energy into raising her young son. Then she’d met Ion, and her entire world changed.

Zach had recognized the happiness that made her glow when she’d gone someplace with Ion. The fact that she’d actually introduced him to Zach told him the relationship had grown serious. When Ion had wanted to ask her to marry him, he’d asked Zach’s permission first. In all the years since, they’d all become a tight-knit, loving family.

Which had now been ripped apart. He swallowed.

“Are you okay?” Shayla asked, making him realize he’d gone silent.

“Sorry. I’m worried about my sister. This isn’t at all like her.”

“How did a Shifter like you come to have a Mermaid for a sister?” Maddie asked, clearly recognizing his aura.

“My mother, who’s also a Shifter, married her father. He’s Mer. Nantha was very young.”

“What happened to her mother?” This from Shayla.

He forced himself to meet her gaze. When he did, again the flare of attraction zinged through him. “She died shortly after Nantha was born.”

“When exactly did your sister vanish?” Maddie asked, pen poised. “How long has she been missing?”

“Sunday. Two days ago.”

“She’ll be needing to get back to the water soon,” Shayla added. “Especially if she spent the weekend on land. One week is about as long as we can go. But I imagine you already know that, right?”

He nodded. “That’s one of our main concerns. Though Ion says it’s ten days.”

Lips pursed, which somehow made her look even sexier, Shayla considered. Finally, she shrugged. “That’s pushing it, but he’s right. I’ve made it that long. It wasn’t pretty—I got sick. But once I was back in the water, I was fine.”

“What have you done so far attempting to locate her?” Maddie asked. “Did you check with the Pack Protectors? I think they might help in a case like this, since she’s related by marriage.”

Momentarily startled, he stared. Even though he knew she could tell by his aura that he was a Shifter, he hadn’t told her what kind of animal he became. While he was Wolf, and definitely part of the Pack, he could just as well have been another species entirely.

However, if this helped with finding his sister, he saw no problem with breaking a few rules. “Yes, I’ve already enlisted the help of the Pack Protectors. They promised to let me know if they heard anything about a missing Mermaid.” He grimaced. “I have to say, they didn’t seem really concerned.”

“They’ve probably got more pressing Pack business,” Maddie said, her tone commiserating. “But at least you got the word out with them.”

“True. I really wish there was some sort of investigative agency where supernatural beings could turn to for help, besides the Pack Protectors.” He took a deep breath, willing himself to sound calm rather than desperate. “I’ve done all I could think of on land. And since I’m not a Merman, I have to believe my stepfather is conducting a thorough search under the water. I’m trying really hard not to think about the horrible things that might have happened to a naïve and sweet young woman like my sister. I just wish I could hire someone to look for her. Someone who could travel under the sea.”

Shayla went very still. She and Maddie exchanged a glance.

The two women exchanged another glance.

“That might be possible,” Shayla began, her voice low and serious.

“It just might,” Maddie agreed, looking at him. “But Shayla and I were just talking about starting up our own private investigative agency. It’s been a lifelong dream of mine.” When she paused, Shayla took over.

“Maddie’s family used to run one. She got her feet wet, so to speak, working for her father. Maybe you could be our first customer.” She grimaced. “I guess it depends how desperate you are. While she knows her way around the business, I have zero experience. But I’m Mer, and can search underwater.”

Looking into her emerald green eyes, he didn’t even hesitate. “Yes. I’m in. Find my sister.”

Shayla shook her head. “Don’t you even want to know what we charge?”

Though he wanted to say he didn’t care what it cost, as long as they were successful, he knew better. “I’m sure it will be reasonable. Just get me the details as soon as possible. Of course, I’ll also pay any expenses incurred in the search.” He couldn’t believe his luck. Having another Mermaid hunt for his sister beneath the sea, and a Shifter who could help with the on-land search, was more than he’d hoped for. He glanced at his watch, jiggling his leg in impatience. “The sooner you can get started on finding her, the better.”

“We’ll need you to sign a contract,” Shayla said smoothly. “We’ll need to get that document drawn up. Can you meet us back here tomorrow night around eight?”

“Definitely.” He pushed to his feet. “Finally, I feel like I’m doing something constructive. I’ll see you ladies tomorrow.” Bracing himself, he looked at Shayla first and held out his hand.

When she took it, an electric shock rushed from his fingers up his arm. Her eyes widened, letting him know she likely felt it, too. The way she jerked her hand free confirmed it. So it wasn’t just one-sided. Interesting.

Curious to see what would happen, he turned to Maddie; they also shook. Nothing happened. Absolutely nothing. He wasn’t sure whether to be relieved or worried.

“Until we have the paperwork signed, please consider this a handshake agreement,” he said. “That way, you can get to work immediately.”

“We will,” Shayla replied. “We’ll do our best to find her.”

“Thank you.” He felt like a bit of the weight had been lifted from his shoulders. Even if they were totally inexperienced, having a Mermaid assisting was huge. At least he was no longer searching alone. “I appreciate your help more than you know.”

“Do you mind leaving the photo with us?” Shayla asked. “We can show it around. I assume you have another copy?”

“I can print one.” He handed it over. “I’ll see you tomorrow night.” He left the bar, feeling more hopeful than he had since Sunday night.

Chapter 2

Shayla watched him go, her fingers and arm still tingling. Damned if there wasn’t something about that man. “Now we’ve done it,” she told Maddie. “We’ve got to make this work. That man is pinning his last hope on us.”

“And rightly so.” Maddie’s confidence made Shayla smile. “I’m a damn good police dispatcher, though I’m ready to do something else. A paranormal private investigation agency would be perfect, especially since I grew up with one, even though my family dealt with humans. I know the ins and outs of human law enforcement in this city. Plus, I have contacts. All of that’s got to count for something, right?”

Shayla nodded. “It’s interesting that I just said I wouldn’t mind finding something else to occupy my time. I’ll need to do some research. I know next to nothing about private investigators. We need to look into rates so we know what to charge. Do we need to get licensed?”

“Only if we plan on working with humans.” Maddie grinned. “Since we don’t, I think we’ll be okay without one.”

“True.” Shayla grinned back. “We’re also going to need a name. Something catchy.”

“I’ve got that covered. I already know what we’ll call ourselves,” Maddie said. “Perfect for a paranormal private investigation firm.” She gave a dramatic pause.

Crossing her arms, Shayla waited her out.

Finally, Maddie made her pronouncement. “We’ll call ourselves the Shadow Agency. Since so many of us operate in the Shadows.”

“I like that,” a sultry voice said. Carmen Vargas had come up to their table unnoticed. It was one of the more unnerving skills Vampires had. She pulled out a seat and smiled at them. “Especially since Shadows are a huge part of my life. Even more so than yours.” With her blond, spiky short hair and bright blue eyes, Carmen looked like anything but the Vampire she was. “So what exactly are you two up to now?”

Maddie told her. “And we already have our first client.”

“I want in.” Carmen leaned forward, her long silver earrings catching and reflecting the dim light. “Who better to work in the Shadows than a Vamp?”

Shayla considered her. “What about your job?” Carmen worked nights as a government researcher and scientist.

“It won’t be a problem. I set my own hours. I’d love to help you two get this business off the ground.”

Maddie nodded. “We just came up with the idea a few minutes ago. But if Shayla agrees, I think the three of us would make great partners.”

“Yes.” Shayla’s answer came immediately. “Let’s talk specifics.”

Over the next several hours, with Maddie taking notes, they hammered out all the details they could think of for their new business, the Shadow Agency. Since they wouldn’t be dealing with humans at all, they decided not to incorporate or worry about insurance. Shifters, Merfolk and Vampires weren’t the type to sue if something went wrong—they’d just get even.

“We need to decide on rates,” Maddie said next. “Since we’ll be splitting the payment three ways.”

“Not necessarily,” Shayla said. “I think the initial fee should go to the company. Each of us will be paid by the company depending on how much work we put in to each case. For example, this missing Mermaid. If I do a lot of underwater investigating, then I would bill the Shadow Agency for my time. Ditto on any time either of you devote to it. All of our payments come from the company rather than the client.”

“That makes sense.” Carmen flashed her white teeth in a smile. “I think this calls for another round of drinks.” She signaled Johnny, who dipped his head in acknowledgment.

“I think we need to get busy,” Maddie started to protest. “Time matters when someone has been abducted.”

“True,” Carmen agreed. “But Shayla can’t exactly jump into the ocean right now, so it’s going to have to wait until morning.”

Maddie looked from one to the other. “One more drink,” she finally agreed. “And then I want to go home and get started on the computer at least. I’ll start calling my contacts in the morning.”

“What are you drinking?” Shayla asked. Broken Chains kept a wide variety of exotic blood for its Vampire clientele, along with usual bar beverages, both alcoholic and non.

“This is European Farmer,” Carmen said, draining her wineglass. “First time I’ve tried it. Pretty good, too.”

Shayla shuddered. “I’ll just stick with my wine,” she told her friends.

“Me, too.” Maddie raised her nearly empty glass. “Beer is better than blood, at least for me.”

“I beg to differ.” When she took another sip, Carmen deliberately flashed her fangs. As she’d known it would, this made the other two laugh.

Though Maddie had to be at work the next morning, the three of them ended up staying until last call. Shayla had switched from alcohol to seawater, though Maddie had continued to drink beer. She claimed her Shifter metabolism gave her a higher tolerance. This seemed true, since in all the time Shayla had known her, she’d never seen Maddie even tipsy.

Carmen stood, drawing several men’s eyes. Tall and slender, her vivid good looks matched her personality. No one, upon first meeting her, ever suspected her to be a Vampire. She delighted in this and exploited it whenever she could.

“I’ll walk you two out,” Carmen said, showing her teeth. Due to the obscure location of Broken Chains, they had to walk through some sketchy areas of Galveston before they could even catch sight of a cab. And Shayla refused to set foot on the bus. Something about going around the island driven by a complete stranger while packed into a bus with other total strangers made her entire body feel out of tune. Plus, the buses stopped running at eleven thirty. Since tourist season had started, there would be tons of cabs the closer they got to Broadway.

Shayla and Maddie nodded. Carmen knew how much they appreciated her help. More than once they’d been accosted by a human male with bad intent. Though Shayla had taken to carrying a pistol with her, using it would draw more attention than she wanted to deal with. Ditto with Maddie shape-shifting into a Wolf.

Carmen, on the other hand, had no objection to getting a little fresh blood if she had to. Self-defense, she called it. She never took enough to mortally wound anyone, just to weaken them. She’d explained to her friends that not everyone bitten by her would automatically become a Vampire. She had to consciously choose that path, releasing an enzyme when she bit. So far, she’d never made another Vampire. She claimed she wasn’t sure if she ever would.

Which explained why there weren’t a lot more Vampires running around Houston and areas south of there.

Of the three of them, naturally Carmen felt most at home with the dark alleys and empty warehouses. She glided through the shadows, making Shayla realize her friend was a perfect fit for the Shadow Agency. They each had their own set of skills to bring to the table.

Maddie strode along confidently, too. Only Shayla felt off. Not exactly in the moment, somehow. She was conscious of the distant pull of the harbor and the need to soon slip into the water. Land was fun, but it never would be her true home.

Despite the late hour, the other two women were still energized with excitement. Maddie wanted to get started searching immediately and Shayla agreed with her. Carmen, on the other hand, seemed more focused on getting their business up and running. There were, after all, a hundred things that needed to be done. Flyers and business cards made and printed. A mission statement written. Rates and fees for various services agreed upon. She and Maddie chatted back and forth, assigned each other numerous tasks, though Maddie clearly was itching to leave and get busy. Shayla listened, still feeling a bit detached. She wanted to focus on the case at hand first, even though, of the three of them, she had more spare time. Carmen and Maddie, each with their jobs and other activities, would have to parcel out slots of time for this new venture. Maddie also let them know she’d decided to wait before quitting her job, at least until she could be certain her salary would be enough. She had bills to pay.

Since both Shayla and Carmen could set their own hours, neither would be impacted as severely as Maddie if the Shadow Agency failed.

“But it won’t,” Carmen declared, her sultry voice ringing with certainty. “Because we’ve found a niche with a need. As long as we provide good customer service and fulfill that need, we’re a shoo-in for success.”

Shayla nodded, still lost in her thoughts. Maddie noticed.

“You’re awfully quiet.” She elbowed Shayla in the side. “What’s wrong?”

“I can’t stop thinking about that poor missing Mermaid,” Shayla admitted. “Nantha. She’s young. The young ones are often overconfident and reckless. I have a feeling that there’s a lot more to this story than Zach realizes.”

“Or maybe more than he’s letting on,” Maddie interjected.

“No, that wouldn’t make sense,” Shayla argued. “His number one priority is finding his sister. Why would he hide anything, especially if it might be helpful?”

“True,” Carmen said thoughtfully. “I admire the way you’re so focused on this case.”

“She’s also pretty focused on him,” Maddie pointed out.

Carmen’s brows rose. “Really?” she drawled. “I’m guessing he must be easy on the eyes then. So tell me, Shayla. Was he sexy?”

Maddie laughed. Shayla blushed. “Maybe,” she allowed. “He’s Shifter. I’d definitely call him hot. Tall, dark blond hair cut short in one of those deliberately messy styles and light gray eyes. Rugged features, which match his muscles.” She stopped when she realized both her friends were staring at her.

“What?” she asked, her face heating. “You asked if he was sexy. I was just describing him for you.”

The other two women broke out laughing.

“If you think he’s sexy, then he must be to die for,” Carmen teased. “You hardly even notice when I try to put some really gorgeous Vampire men in front of you.”

“Same here,” Maddie interjected. “I’ve made it a habit to have a few of my unattached Shifter friends stop by our table over the last few months, and you didn’t react to any of them.”

Shayla’s blush had become an outright burn. “Well, maybe that’s because this one is different,” she said, flustered.

“Is he now?” In true Carmen fashion, the Vamp wasn’t going to let this go. “Interesting. Very interesting indeed.”

“I agree.” Maddie and Carmen exchanged looks. “Sounds like that’s settled then,” Maddie said. She seemed so satisfied. If she’d been a feline Shifter she would have purred.

Confused, Shayla glanced from one to the other. Her two best friends appeared to find this massively amusing, whatever this might be. Finally, she just had to ask.

“What’s settled?”

“You called dibs!” Both Maddie and Carmen spoke at once, grinning from ear to ear. “Finally. We’re so happy for you. It’s about time.” They high-fived.

Shayla opened her mouth to protest and then closed it. She could tell the more she spoke, the deeper a hole she’d dig. Let them think what they wanted. Zach Cantrell was attractive. She was female, so of course she’d noticed. End of story. Her friends knew better than anyone that she had no intentions of getting involved with a man right now. Not for a long, long time, if ever. Her fiancé had died and she never wanted to feel that kind of pain again.

Later that night, once she’d let herself into her house, she went out on the back deck, the side that overlooked the water. The sounds of the waves lapping up against the shore always comforted her and tonight was no exception.

When she’d first made the impulsive, heartbroken decision to abandon the sea for land, she’d gone upstate, to a small town between Houston and Dallas. The town sat near a large, freshwater lake. She hadn’t realized lakes wouldn’t work the same as the sea, and it had taken her becoming seriously ill for her to understand she’d need to live close to the ocean. So she’d moved to Galveston Island. She’d rented for six months, just long enough to see if she liked it. She did.

Her business procuring and selling rare artifacts found on the ocean floor made more than enough money for her to purchase a single-family home right on the water—a steal at less than a million dollars. From her house, she could not only see the water, but swim in it from her own small, private beach. This brought her peace and no shortage of happiness. And since the house came with a small boat slip, whenever she needed to go under the sea, she simply took the boat out and anchored it before letting her tail grow back.

Perfect solution. She’d truly come to love Galveston Island, even though in the spring and summer it became crowded with tourists. For her, it was the perfect compromise between her new life on land and her old one under the sea.

Maddie lived on the island too, though farther inland, close to The Strand. She shared a small apartment with another woman, also a Shifter. As for Carmen, when anyone asked where she resided, she simply answered in a warning tone that they didn’t really want to know. Shayla assumed that meant a cemetery crypt, but who knew? These days, the Vamps had gotten away from their traditional dwellings. It could be entirely possible that Carmen might have a luxury house or condo near the bay. She had that well-groomed look that money brought.

* * *

The next morning, after her breakfast of kippers and eggs, Shayla went out in her boat. Her body had already begun to let her know she’d stayed away from her natural habitat too long, and, even though Zach Cantrell hadn’t signed a contract yet, she planned to do some investigating while she was under the water. While she didn’t know Ion or his missing daughter, Nantha—just like on land, the Merfolk had numerous cities with thousands of residents—she could still ask around. The news that a Mermaid had gone missing would travel like a tidal wave among her people. For all she knew, it might already have.

The weather couldn’t have been more perfect. Overcast and slightly chilly, the steady mist that fell ensured she’d have privacy on her swim. She motored past Stewart Park, the beach where most of the tourists swam in the late spring and early summer. Since it was late March, a few weeks after spring break, she knew the beach would be mostly deserted, and it was.

She moored her boat about two hundred yards out, in the area where she’d once seen someone conducting a scuba diving class. Dropping her anchor, she slipped out of her raincoat and shirt, leaving only her bikini top. Brightly colored swimsuit tops had become popular among Mermaids, especially since so many of them enjoyed spending time appearing human. With the sea calling her, she slipped over the edge of the boat, beginning the change from legs to tail as soon as her skin hit the icy water.

The first shock of the cold had her sucking in her breath, but then as she slipped under the waves, her Mermaid nature took over, joyfully reuniting with her still-beloved sea. In her grief after losing her fiancé Richard, she’d had to forgive the very nature of the thing that was part of her essence. The marriage had been arranged, true, but the two of them had hit it off immediately, minutes into their first meeting. Sometimes, she’d thought, you meet someone and you just know. They’d both felt that way.

The wedding would unite two separate kingdoms. The celebrations had started immediately. Though they’d met several times in the weeks that followed, they hadn’t yet gotten around to discussing where they would live. Even though she’d known she’d have to move to his kingdom where he would someday rule, she’d been so blinded by love that it hadn’t mattered.

The wedding plans had gone into full gear. It would be an elaborate ceremony with dignitaries attending from seas all over the world. Her dress had been chosen and fitted, the sea anemones ordered and the invitations mailed out.

And then everything had changed in the flip of a fin. Richard had been out celebrating with his friends. He’d been drinking, and was clearly inebriated when he’d run into the massive great white shark in an isolated area.

Shayla often hoped the substantial amount of alcohol meant he hadn’t suffered as much pain.

The shark had later been hunted down and killed, far too late.

The kingdoms had also been stunned. His family went into mourning. Her family did, as well. As for Shayla, her grief turned into rage. She’d gone crazy, acting out, hurting the ones who’d only sought to comfort her. At least as long as she filled herself with fury, she had no room for the pain.

But once this had burned through her, she felt hollow and empty. She became a shadow of her former self, taking comfort in the gray numbness, glad she couldn’t seem to remember how to think, how to feel.

She’d sworn off the sea and tried to turn her back on the ocean. Coming ashore on South Padre Island, she’d headed north, inland, hoping to put as much distance between herself and the water as she could. She’d even managed to convince herself the tales of a Mermaid needing to be around water were old wives’ tales without a single kernel of truth in them.

Now she knew better. She needed the sea as much as she needed air to breathe when she was in her human form.

For its part, the ocean recognized her, too. Just like the land, the sea was a living, breathing organism, and as such, the instant she touched its surface, Shayla became an integral part of it. Joy flooded through her, joy and wonder and a tiny bit of aching grief that she pushed away.

Time to swim. She dove under. As usual, a few minutes passed before her eyes adjusted to the murky depths, but as she swam away from land, gradually going deeper, the entire seascape changed.

Use of sonar by humans to discover shipwrecks had made life more difficult for the Merfolk to keep their cities hidden. But in the deeper parts of the ocean, there were mountains and valleys, just as there were on land, and it was in those valleys where their civilizations had grown. In all of the history of humans, there had only been a few documented instances of them being able to travel so deep, though they’d started using unmanned probes, which Merfolk had taken to destroying if one came too close.

Shayla would have to swim for at least an hour to reach her former home. She’d have to assume that Ion and Nantha had come from the same city, as it was closest to the Gulf coastline of the southern United States and Mexico. Though there were several other possibilities, most farther south, though she knew of at least one settlement northeast near Florida.

In her search for the missing Mermaid, her family’s home seemed like the perfect place to start.

During the long swim, several sea creatures came to say hello. Fish of all kinds, small schools of striped bass, winter flounders, shad and drums, and so many others she stopped trying to identify them. Dolphins, a huge eel and then some sharks, including one ancient great white shark that she carefully avoided. Most times the sharks left Merfolk alone, as they recognized them as fish too large to be taken without a fight. In Richard’s instance, he’d cut himself on some coral. Drunk, disoriented and bleeding, he’d been easy prey for a huge shark.

Pain knifed through her. No. She wouldn’t think of this. Not today. Again, she focused on her surroundings and kinder, gentler creatures. A small group of lined seahorses swam up and gently kissed her before swimming away in search of food. Several species of whale that usually swam just a bit farther south of here surrounded her, vocalizing in the deep peaceful tones of their kind. The sound resonated, echoing off the ocean itself, filling Shayla with peace, easing the last lingering remnants of her grief.

This would always be her true home. On land, she occasionally managed to forget how much she loved the underwater world. Once here, she wondered how she ever stayed away.

Finally, she reached the outskirts of her home, a city known among her people as Coral. She swam under a natural rock archway, and as usual, the first glimpse of Coral had her heart skipping a beat.

The city glowed softly, appearing as if it had been constructed from the most precious essence of oysters, the pearl. Muted white, intermingled with bright flashes of color from the live coral gardens, from a distance her home had a mysterious, ancient air. She could only imagine what the humans would make of it if they happened to send an undetected probe close enough to photograph it.

The nearer she drew, the more the place vibrated with life. Fish as bright as the deep-water coral swam up to greet her, escorting her around the protective shield and into one of several unmarked entrances.

Inside, the city teemed with life. Merfolk, as graceful as the fish, swam in the streets, going about their daily lives. Noticing her, several greeted her and waved, others shouted hello, the sound traveling as waves through the water, tickling her skin. This made her smile. These days, sometimes she could come home and forget about her past pain.

She went directly to her parents’ house, a large free-form structure made of cobalt glass and green coral, shot through with swirling silver accents. Like all of the buildings here in Coral, the shape and color complemented the sea that surrounded them. Her family’s home was larger than the others, due to their royal status. Only the palace, where her brother now resided as king, was bigger and more ornate.

Shayla swam to the door, opening it and going inside without even knocking. Now that her parents were retired from ruling, they occupied their time with various other activities, sometimes together, more often separate. It was fifty-fifty whether she’d even find them at home.

Inside, she headed directly for the kitchen. When her mother saw her, she cried out and swam to give Shayla a hug. “You just barely caught me,” she said. “I was about to leave for afternoon class.”

On alternate days, her mother, Blythe, taught young Merfolk the art of preparing fish. Chef Blythe, the kids called her. After acting as a wise queen for several decades, Blythe had been glad to rid herself of her crown and scepter. Most days, she preferred a more casual style, unless she was teaching a cooking class. She wore her long, inky hair up in a tightly wound bun these days.

“Will you be here later today?” Blythe asked, releasing her.

Though Shayla knew her mom would be disappointed, she told her she couldn’t stay too long. “I’m actually working,” she said.

“On finding artifacts?” Blythe waved her hand in the general direction of the study. “I’m pretty sure your father has several in there waiting for you to pick up.”

“I’ll grab them before I head back,” Shayla said. “I’m actually looking for a missing Mermaid.”

“What?” For a second, Queen Blythe returned. Her mother straightened, lifting her chin and fixing Shayla with a no-nonsense stare. “Explain.”

As succinctly as possible, Shayla did. When she’d finished, Blythe frowned. “And you say her father’s name is Ion? The name sounds familiar, though I can’t place it.”

“If you do, or if you hear any information about Nantha, will you give me a call?” Shayla asked.

“I sure will.” Blythe returned her attention to what she’d been doing when Shayla arrived—packing cooking supplies into a tote. “Right now, though, I’ve got to run.”

“Where’s Dad?” Shayla asked. “Please tell me he’s not up at the castle pestering Merc again.”

“He’s not. Your brother banned him.” Blythe smiled, since they both knew such a ban wasn’t really possible. A sitting king couldn’t forbid a former ruler from visiting the castle. Nor would he really want to. “Since your father had so much difficulty with retirement, he’s gone back to fishing a lot. I tried to get him to volunteer at guppy school, but he refused. Whatever. At least he seems happy.”

“As long as he continues to look for inventory for me, that’s awesome,” Shayla said, even though no one had asked her permission. “He finds the best stuff.”

“You know he and your brother are in a competition to see who can find the most valuable artifact, don’t you?”

Intrigued, Shayla sat on one of the bar stools. Made of coral and glass, they perfectly complemented the stone countertop. “That’s actually pretty awesome,” she said.

“It’s good for you, isn’t it?” Blythe hefted her tote and squared her shoulders. “Who knew humans would pay so dearly for such things?” She smiled, hugging Shayla once more, quickly this time. “I’m sorry I can’t stay and visit, but you’re welcome to come with me and watch the class.”

“I would,” Shayla said. “But I’d planned on going around and seeing if anyone near here has ever heard of Nantha. I wish I’d thought to ask where her family lived. I figure they’re probably from this city, but I have no idea which part.” And since there were thousands of Merfolk living in Coral, she’d need to narrow it down quite a bit.”

“Nantha is an uncommon name,” Blythe mused thoughtfully. “I’ll ask around, too, and let you know if I hear anything.”

“That’d be great.”

“When will you be back?” Blythe asked as she swam toward the front door with Shayla right behind her. Despite being a retired queen, and underwater renowned chef, she’d kept her slender figure. Sometimes when she and Shayla went out together, they were mistaken for sisters. Not a hint of gray touched Blythe’s dark hair, and her face still appeared free of lines or wrinkles. Shayla hoped she’d be as fortunate when she became her mother’s age.

“I’m not sure,” Shayla admitted. “But since I plan to aggressively work this case, I imagine it will be sooner rather than later.”

Blythe cocked her head, studying her daughter. “You look happy,” she mused. “Happier than you’ve been in a long time. I think this new business venture might be agreeing with you.”

Immediately, Shayla thought of Zach. Her entire body heated. Glad her mother couldn’t see, she nodded. “I think so, too.”

With a wave, Blythe swam off. Shayla wandered around the house for a moment, peeking into the study to see what her father had found, before she left to go canvass the part of town closest to her parents’ home. She figured it couldn’t hurt, though she knew she’d do better once she learned where exactly in Coral Ion and his daughter lived.

Chapter 3

For the next two hours, Shayla traveled up and down the busy streets, wearing her long, dark hair up in a tight bun in hopes of disguising herself. She hoped no one would stop her, wanting to talk about Richard’s death or asking her where she’d been. The harder she made it to recognize her, the better her ability to move about freely.

She wasn’t sure, but maybe so much time had passed that people didn’t recognize her. No one even gave her a second look as she made her rounds, stopping into cafés and bakeries, shops and drugstores, asking everyone she met if they’d heard anything about a missing Mermaid called Nantha. If anyone who recognized her was surprised to see Princess Shayla, back home in Coral, they didn’t show it. She was greeted with enthusiasm from everyone, and by now it seemed they felt enough time had passed that they no longer offered her their condolences. Maybe they believed the reminder would only make her sad. Since she tried not to think about Richard or the void he’d left in her life, she felt relieved.

As for Nantha, no one had heard anything, nor did the name sound familiar. Which meant Zach’s stepsister hadn’t been connected in any way to the royal family, close or extended. That left three other quadrants of the city yet to be explored. This search could take several days, as Coral was a good size.

Shayla made a mental note to use the photo of the girl she’d gotten from Zach and make up some laminated posters to place around town. That and prepare a list of questions to ask him once he’d signed the contract, starting with exactly where the missing Mermaid had lived and where she’d gone to school, and if she’d had a job. Shayla needed to speak with her friends, find out if Nantha had a serious boyfriend or if she’d had any man or girlfriend trouble.

Though she wanted to speak to her father before heading back to Galveston, she had no way of knowing where exactly in the vast ocean he’d decided to go fishing. Briefly, she entertained the idea of visiting the castle and saying hello to her brother, but with all the court protocol, she decided to skip it this time.

Which meant this trip had accomplished nothing. Mentally chastising herself, Shayla got ready for the long swim home. She stopped by her parents’ house once more to pick up the three artifacts her father had found. Bundling them into her backpack, she swam away. Though she hadn’t had any success, she’d been operating on very little information. At least now, she felt better prepared for the meeting tonight at Broken Chains. Once Zach had signed the contract and answered her questions, she’d be better able to spring into action and help find his stepsister.

All the way home, she kept an eye out for great white sharks. Luckily, she didn’t encounter any. Though usually the vivid sea life relaxed her, she felt uneasy. Uncomfortable in her own skin, especially her Mermaid tail. The relative quietness of her swim home did little to distract her from thinking about Zach. Though she’d never admit it to her friends—heck, she could barely admit it to herself—something about him drew her. Mostly his raw sexual appeal. After all, it had been years since she’d opened her body to a man.

When she finally reached her boat again, Shayla pushed off her exhaustion, and she swam close. Reaching up, she grabbed hold of the back step and pulled only her upper body out of the water. Shoulders and neck, nothing more. A quick look around to ensure there weren’t any witnesses, and she initiated the change from fish tail to human legs keeping that part of herself hidden beneath the waves. Sometimes this could be painful, especially after a long swim like she’d had today.

At least the exercise helped her nerves. Though her legs were weak, she wobbled up her pier after securing her boat, glad her neighbors paid little attention to her.

Once she got inside her house, she took a hot shower and prepared herself a meal. Though normally she relished the quietness of living alone, tonight she felt restless, even lonely. She didn’t like that. She hadn’t felt that way in a long time.

To keep herself busy, she decided to clean up the things her father had found for her so she could list them on her website for sale. They were really great artifacts. One of them, a remarkably intact little treasure chest most likely from a sunken ship, contained ancient gold coins and an assortment of brightly colored gemstones. She’d most likely sell them separately, though she might offer them up together and see if she had any takers.

This alone would fetch a pretty penny. The other two things—excellent finds on their own—would also sell quickly. Good, because she had a hunch she’d have to finance the Shadow Agency until it got up and running. Which might actually be a while. Though Zach, as her first client, would help pay some of the expenses, his bill wouldn’t be enough to support them for too long.

Zach. She thought of his tall, powerful body. Muscular and rugged, everything about him seemed the opposite of Mermen, who were, as a general rule, trim and slender. Zach wore his masculinity like a cloak, and his confidence beckoned to her. Zach! There he was again, intruding into her peaceful afternoon. This first case felt more like helping a friend than a job, despite the fact that she’d never met Zach before. Except tonight they’d be signing a contract and money would change hands. How much, Shayla had no idea. Maddie would be handling the amount of their fee, promising it would be reasonable and in keeping with what other people charged.

Since no one knew, Maddie had promised to research what kind of rates private investigation firms charged and type up a handy guide for each of them. Carmen had said something about finding them office space, which could become really interesting since no one even knew where Carmen lived or how her taste ran in buildings. Shayla had to wonder what kind of space the Vampire would consider normal for a business such as theirs.

Of the three, only Shayla had begun the physical investigative part of things. Maddie had scoured the internet and reached out to her contacts, while Carmen had asked questions down near the waterfront. Of course, Shayla was the only one able to explore under the sea. Once the contract had been signed, she’d also go to the Neptune Pod, which was the Merfolk equivalent of the Shifter Pack Protectors. She had no doubt Nantha’s father would have already started the process of beginning an investigation, but it couldn’t hurt to let them know someone else was actively searching, as well. Especially a royal princess.

* * *

Though worry still made his chest tight, at least now Zach felt a renewed sense of hope. Running into the two women at Broken Chains had been the luckiest thing to happen to him in years. As one day turned into two without word from his sister, desperation had set in. Now, just because he’d made an impulsive decision to stop in the bar for a drink, he’d have help. He definitely didn’t mind paying for assistance, because with Ion gone under the sea and his mother an emotional wreck, he’d never felt so alone and powerless.

Especially since he couldn’t shake the feeling of guilt. He’d promised Nantha he’d look after her while she was on land. And somehow, he’d let her down. He had no idea what might have happened to her.

A thousand scenarios, each more horrible than the last, drifted through his head at night when he closed his eyes and attempted to sleep. Truthfully, he watched way too many crime dramas on TV. The story lines filled his head with dark and disastrous possibilities, things that wouldn’t even have occurred to him if he hadn’t seen the programs and realized what awful acts humans were capable of. He hoped nothing like that had happened to his sister.

Instead, he kept busy searching. The Monday after she’d disappeared, he’d called in sick to work. Tuesday, the same thing. Wednesday, he showed up, if only to put in to take the rest of the week off as personal vacation days. At the last moment, he’d changed that to taking a two-week long vacation. No one could argue since Zach hadn’t taken any actual time off in close to three years.

Because sleeping brought nightmares, he fueled himself with caffeine and tried to stay awake as much as possible. He’d even done a quick shape-shift into his Wolf self in order to search the area around his mother’s house by scent. Despite the incredible ability of his Wolf nose, he’d turned up nothing.

Every waking moment since Sunday night, he’d spent searching or thinking about where Nantha could be. He longed for a clue, a hint, anyone catching a glimpse of a tall, willowy blonde with bright blue eyes. He’d done a thorough search of the western area of Galveston Island, close to where she’d disappeared. After that, he’d haunted all the touristy areas, including the beaches, before moving on to other residential neighborhoods.

Despite this, he’d turned up nothing. Absolutely, freaking, nothing. He wished he could have taken the extra step of filing a missing person report with the human police, but Merfolk didn’t have human identity. He’d spoken with the Pack Protectors instead, even though they worked with Shifters rather than Mermaids. They’d treated him kindly, if dismissively, but at least they knew to be looking for her. It hadn’t helped his state of mind when the Protector taking the report had suggested slyly that maybe his sister had run off with her boyfriend, needing to escape her overprotective brother.

Zach had tamped down his rage at the smirking man. The man didn’t know his sister. If he did, he’d never have made such a comment. Nantha might be mischievous, but she adored her family. She’d never do something so irresponsible. If she’d had a boyfriend she’d wanted to run off with, she would have told them all before she waved goodbye. Clearly, her life was in danger, no matter what the Protector believed.

After the sting of that encounter, Zach still didn’t regret reaching out to the Pack Protectors. This wasn’t about him. He couldn’t let injured pride come between him and a chance to rescue Nantha. He’d simply asked to speak to someone else. However, something the second Pack Protector said when taking Zach’s information worried him. “Another one?” he’d asked, before appearing to catch himself. After that, despite Zach’s repeated attempts to get him to elaborate, he’d refused.

Another one. Had other Mermaids recently gone missing? If so, why? These were the kind of questions that kept him up at night. Maybe Shayla would know. He’d ask her later that evening when they signed the contract.

The Shadow Agency. He liked the name. And even though he knew only one of the woman had any experience whatsoever with private investigation, he knew they’d all give the search everything they had. And he couldn’t ask for more than that.

So now he had help, which eased his panic somewhat. He wanted to let his mother know too, hoping it would help her, as well. But it would have seemed odd to tell her that he’d enlisted the assistance of two women he’d met in a bar, so he didn’t. Not yet. His shape-shifting mom, June, had gone out hunting as Wolf every night since Nantha had disappeared, hoping to catch a hint of her scent. That was all she knew to do; that and stay close to home in case Nantha returned of her own volition.

Despite how ridiculous it might sound, Zach allowed himself to feel the first bit of hope he’d had since Sunday night. The knowledge that he’d hired a Mermaid and another Shifter to help him search for Nantha made him feel more proactive. He definitely could use another pair of eyes and ears under the sea, because he had no way to know what was going on there unless Ion told him. And truthfully, Nantha’s father seemed too devastated by his daughter’s disappearance to be of much use. Since Zach loved his stepfather as deeply as if he were biological, the older man’s pain had become Zach’s, as well.

It was a giant cluster of worry and fear. He didn’t see things improving until Nantha was found, which had better be soon.

In the middle of all this, he couldn’t stop thinking about Shayla. Even worried about his stepsister, the image of the gorgeous Mermaid haunted him.

Zach would never forget how Ion had reacted when Nantha had vanished. At first, the older Merman had clearly thought she was playing a joke on him. Nantha had a mischievous streak and frequently liked to tease both her father and Zach. She’d gone for her usual walk, just as she always did before returning to the sea.

But as the search turned into hours and the daylight disappeared, they’d all begun to realize that something was very wrong. They’d driven to Stewart Beach, leaving June at home in case Nantha showed up. Zach and Ion had walked the sand, asking anyone they encountered if they’d seen a woman alone. No one had.

Finally, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Zach quietly had to admit defeat. He’d suggested they return home, just in case Nantha showed up there. Of course, they both knew she hadn’t as June hadn’t called.

Though he’d agreed, Ion had stumbled on the walk back to the car. When he got inside, Zach saw the older man had gone ashen. When they pulled up to the house, Zach had gone around to help Ion out. Again, Ion swayed and nearly fell.

Watching from the front door, June had rushed over to support and reassure her husband. Zach stepped back, glad she at least had a distraction. Soon enough, she’d realize what both he and Ion already had.

Nantha was missing. Something, somewhere, somehow, had gone very wrong. Despite that they’d turned up nothing—no sign of a struggle, no blood, no witnesses—she’d disappeared. Zach’s best guess was that she’d been taken. The one thing that gave him solace was the fact that none of Nantha’s personal belongings had floated up to the surface.

Later, when none of them wanted to make eye contact with the others and silence made the air feel heavy enough to choke on since no one knew what to say, each grappled internally with their own panic. While no one had the slightest idea what might have happened, they all knew their beloved Nantha was in danger. But where? And how? This not knowing, not having a clue, made it all worse somehow.

Finally, Ion had said goodbye. He’d gone home, diving into the ocean, determined to find his daughter if she was there. June had taken to her bed, her earlier hysterics becoming a sort of dry-eyed grief. She could barely function. Despite this Zach had to leave her alone. He couldn’t stay and reassure her while there remained a very real chance he could still find his little sister.

When he’d left them, Ion had promised to report back if he discovered any news. As of today, they still hadn’t heard anything at all from him. June had managed to get herself together, but Zach could tell she was a nervous wreck. She’d already phoned him three times since eight o’clock that morning asking if he’d heard anything, anything at all. Finally, he’d gently told her that she’d be the first to know if he did. He planned to call her later in the day even if he had not.

His small apartment in Texas City felt cramped, so he didn’t stay there long. He drove south to Galveston, figuring he could grab a meal and take yet another walk along the seawall and Stewart Beach. This time of the year, with the exception of spring break, was his favorite next to autumn. The thousands of tourists hadn’t yet descended on the island, and while the Houstonians came down on the weekends, the pleasant weather and lack of crowds made everything nice.

Abruptly he realized nothing would be nice again until Nantha came home. He headed down to the pier and Joe’s Crab Shack, where he could grab a shrimp po’boy and a beer.

Even then, he showed Nantha’s photo to everyone who walked by his table, just in case one of them might have seen her. No one had. He refused to let this dampen his spirits. After all, he still had time until darkness. After his meal, he’d do another circle of the seawall.

He’d simply keep searching until he met Shayla and Maddie at Broken Chains, signed the contract and handed over his retainer fee. Then and only then would he truly feel as if he wasn’t simply spinning his wheels.

While he looked, he’d ask every business to put up a poster. Earlier, he’d had the foresight to print up some missing person posters. He’d left some with his mother, asking her to go around her neighborhood and get them up. For himself, he stuck close to the businesses, restaurants and shops. After traveling all around Broadway, The Strand, the seawall and the pier asking store owners to put them up, he realized he’d need to print more. He stopped back into the same print shop where he’d had the first batch done and ordered again. They ran them off while he waited, declined to charge him anything. He thanked them, the kindness of the small gesture warming his heart. He also noted they already had one posted to their window.

Making a second round to hit all the places he hadn’t the first time, as the sun began to set, he ended up with a few hundred of the posters left. Exhausted, he decided to go home and shower, maybe grab a sandwich before heading to Broken Chains to meet Shayla and Maddie.

As full darkness fell, he drove back toward Harborside Drive. Across from the cruise ship terminals, there were various parking lots as well as commercial businesses and warehouses. Some of the older buildings hadn’t been repaired since Hurricane Ike tore through and were still boarded up. Broken Chains was hidden down an alley between two such buildings. Most humans viewed the area as dangerous and stayed away. The bar’s Vampire and Shifter employees made sure to clear the alley before opening for business each night.

As he made his way toward the alley, he glanced around before making that last right turn. There, the sign with no letters, swinging in the night breeze. If any human chanced upon it, they’d definitely believe it a remnant from the time before the hurricane.

Zach stopped, inhaling deeply, waiting before he actually tapped the code out on the door. He’d always loved the moment before entering. The atmospheric setup—the dead-end alley, towering medieval door. The precise number of knocks in a certain cadence, and the vetting before one was allowed in. He wondered what happened if a human accidentally made it this far and tapped on the door. He wasn’t sure, though he knew for certain they would not be allowed inside. Broken Chains was for paranormal entities only. Among the entire world owned by humans, this place was theirs alone. A safe haven.

Once he’d made it in, he stood still and scanned the premises, a peace settling over his weary body. The muted lighting, the clinking of glasses and dishes, the sound of the band tuning their instruments and the hum of quiet conversation. For whatever reason, the bar was even more crowded on this Wednesday night than it had been the evening before. Mid-week point, perhaps? The pleasant buzz of noise made him feel welcome, at home.

Once again, as Zach made his way through the crowd, he was glad the bar didn’t allow smoking. Shifters had sensitive noses, and a room full of cigarette smoke made most of them feel nauseous. The last time Zach had visited a human bar, the smoke had been so thick he hadn’t even ordered a drink before turning around and walking right back out. These days, the humans had become health conscious, and more and more establishments banned smoking.

Shayla and Maddie had said they’d meet him here at eight. He’d arrived half an hour early, and judging from the lack of places to sit, he hoped they’d gotten here even earlier. If not, they’d all be standing and circling the room like hawks until someone actually got up and vacated their table.

The band continued to warm up. There were five of them. A different group from the night before. Broken Chains constantly rotated their musical act. Zach had heard everyone wanted to play there, and competition was so tight that they were booked months in advance. He liked the fact they changed up the music. Something for everyone that way. From the sound of their warm-up, this band sounded like they played eighties music. He shrugged, continuing to wade through elbow-to-elbow people in search of the two women.

He reached the back edge of the bar and turned to go down the other side. Nothing, though every single table was full. A few other Shifters whom he’d spoken with previously waved. He waved back, though he didn’t stop to talk.

Once he’d made a complete circuit of the packed room, he climbed the narrow staircase to check the second floor.

There weren’t as many people up here. He felt like he could breathe. There they were. They’d taken a table near the back, as far away from the balcony railing to below as possible. He approved of their choice, where it would be quieter.

Shayla and Maddie spotted him. Shayla waved. As he made his way toward them, dodging a waiter with a tray of drinks, he realized a third woman had joined them. A blonde with short, spiky hair and too-perfect alabaster skin. He stopped in his tracks. Something about her... Then he knew. The hair on his arms rose, and he pushed back the urge to growl. Vampire. His entire family had been blessed—or cursed—with the ability to instantly recognize a Vampire, even one who blended well with the human population. Though Shifters and Vamps had long ago forged a truce and these days the two got along, he couldn’t help his initial visceral reaction. Hopefully he’d been far enough away that no one at the table would have noticed.

Resuming his progress, he inclined his head toward the newcomer before pulling out the remaining empty chair. From the cold way the Vampire regarded him, he guessed she felt the same way he did. Inherent enemies couldn’t help their initial reaction. It was in their DNA.

Still standing, he kept one hand on the back of the chair. He really wanted to know what she was doing here. This was to have been a private meeting between him and the Shadow Agency.

“Evening,” he said as a greeting, including all three of them in his glance, though he slid his gaze away from the Vampire as quickly as possible without appearing rude.

“Hey there, Zach.” Shayla’s wide smile made him catch his breath. Tonight she wore her silky black hair pulled back in her trademark complicated braid. The hairstyle showed off her high cheekbones, sensual lips and striking eyes. She was, he thought, absolutely stunning. Even his inner Wolf sat up and took notice.

She gestured gracefully toward the Vampire. “This is Carmen Vargas. I’m sorry you haven’t had a chance to meet her before now. She’s the third partner in the Shadow Agency.”

Third partner? This was new. Privately, he wondered how wise that decision might be, but as an about-to-be client, he figured the Vampire could go places neither he nor the others could. Beggars couldn’t be choosers. Right now, he could use all the help he could get locating his sister. If a Vamp could help find Nantha, he’d let her.

He finally lowered himself into the chair, directly across from the now-glowering Vampire. Shayla glanced from him to Carmen and back again. “What?” she asked, spreading her hands, showing off her bright blue nail polish. “I’m picking up a strange vibe. Do you two know each other?”

“No,” Zach answered. He forced himself to relax, aware the other Shifter, Maddie, had gone into full alert. Seemed his inner Wolf wasn’t the only one paying attention. “We don’t.”

“It’s okay,” Carmen interjected, finally taking her gaze off him. “Sometimes age-old instinct trumps common sense.”

In the interest of getting along, he let that comment go. After a second of startled consideration, Maddie laughed. “Don’t worry, Zach. The same thing happened to me the first time I met her.”

Of course it had. Despite Zach’s dislike, Carmen had a point. Age-old instinct could be difficult to overcome. Still, it would help if he tried to make a start. He forced himself to meet the Vampire’s gaze. “You’re right, I’m wrong. My apologies.” He took a deep breath and continued. “I know lots of Vamps, and this hasn’t happened to me in a long time. I’m not sure why I let myself get caught up in it this time.”

For whatever reason, his remark made Carmen laugh.

Shayla touched his arm. “I think it might be because Carmen is the most emphatic Vampire I know. Though most can’t see past her beauty, once you get to know her, you’ll wonder how you didn’t notice. She’s very, very Vampiric.”

Shaking her head, Carmen only laughed harder. “Thank you,” she finally managed. “I guess.”

“You’re welcome.” Shayla pulled a manila folder from her bag, fixing each of them with a stern look. “Now shall we get down to business?”

Zach nodded, glad to have Shayla to distract him from his lingering animosity. “Definitely.”

“Um, drinks first?” Carmen protested, arching one perfectly shaped brow. “We waited for you,” she told Zach. “And I’m thirsty. I need some refreshment before we discuss business.”

“Sounds good to me,” Maddie agreed, lifting her hand to signal a waitress. Instantly, a short woman with purple-and-pink hair appeared at their table. Shayla ordered white wine, Maddie, a wheat beer, and Carmen asked for a glass of an Argentinian weaver’s blood, straight up. For himself, he went with dark beer, earning an approving look from Maddie.

Shayla slid a manila folder across the table. “Our contract,” she said. “Take your time reading it.”

Tuning out the noise from the bar downstairs, he read over the contract. It seemed straightforward, so he went ahead and signed. Since he’d had no idea what kind of retainer they might ask for, he’d made sure to bring a thousand dollars in cash, ten one-hundred-dollar bills neatly folded inside his wallet. If that wasn’t enough, he’d negotiate, or find an ATM.

Turned out, one thousand dollars was exactly what they asked him to put down. The contract had also spelled out other fees, but to his surprise the document said if they weren’t able to accomplish their goal for whatever reason, they’d refund his money. All of it.

In other words, they guaranteed success or their services were free.

Chapter 4

“I like your confidence,” he said, palming the money and handing it over so that no one else could see. Shayla took similar care, closing her hand over it and lowering it into her purse. He was glad she hadn’t decided to make a production out of counting it on top of the table. The bar might be full of other Shifter, Vamps and Merfolk, but that much cash might prove too big a temptation for some.

Underscoring everything, he felt the buzz of his attraction to Shayla, making him hyperaware of her.

Their drinks arrived and Shayla asked them all to do a toast. He felt a little uncomfortable clinking glasses with a female Vampire holding a glass full of blood, but he managed to keep his revulsion hidden, he thought.

Once they’d all taken sips from their assorted drinks, he leaned in. “Now tell me your plan. I want to know what steps you’re going to take to find my stepsister.”

Shayla nodded. She reached into her purse and pulled out several sheets of paper and a pen. “I need you to fill out this questionnaire. Once I know more about Nantha—where she lived, went to school, worked and who her friends are, I can go back under and start asking questions.”

“Why all the focus underwater when Nantha disappeared on land?” Maddie wanted to know.

“Good point,” he agreed. “I’m thinking that’s what her father is doing also.”

“Maybe, but how many young people are going to reveal any secrets Nantha might have had to her father?” Shayla smiled gently. “You know how that is. I feel much more confident they’d be willing to talk to me. And the more we can learn about her life undersea, the more we can look for clues as to who might gave grabbed her and why.”

She had a point. Sort of. “Unless her abductor is human.”

“And that’s where I come in,” Maddie interjected smoothly. “Carmen is assisting me. We’re exploring the human possibilities, among others.”

He nodded and began writing down the answer to the questions. Luckily, Nantha had confided in him. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have had a clue.

As he wrote, Shayla leaned over, trying to decipher his handwriting upside down. “Good,” she commented. “I’m glad to see she’s from Coral. That’s my hometown, and I know it like the back of my hand.”

Carmen watched silently, continuing to sip on her drink. Maddie checked her phone. “My brother just texted me. He’s a Pack Protector. I filled him in on all this. He says there’s already an investigation open.”

Relieved, he nodded. “I contacted them, and they said they’d look into it. They didn’t seem really concerned.”

“Yeah.” Maddie looked down, clearly not sure if she should finish speaking. When she raised her head and met his gaze, he saw determination in the set of her chin. “He says since you didn’t get a ransom note and there’s no indication whatsoever that Nantha is in danger, we have to consider the possibility that she might simply have run off on her own.”

“No.” Zach focused his attention back on the questions. “The human police said something similar when I reported her missing. But Nantha’s not like that. She’d never do anything to worry her family. If she wanted some time away, she would have at the very least left us a note.”

Maddie nodded. Shayla simply watched him, the compassion in her lovely eyes making his throat close up.

“Are you sure?” Carmen asked. “Because just about everyone has secrets they don’t want their family to know.”

His instinctive response—to snarl at her—he pushed back down. Instead, he mentally counted to five, taking slow and steady breaths before answering. “I’m sure. Nantha is one of my best friends.”

“I’m sorry, I have to ask this.” Color high, Shayla cleared her throat, though she didn’t look away. “Were you and Nantha romantically involved?”

“What?” He couldn’t believe her question. The supposition made him feel nauseous. “Of course not. She’s my sister, for hound’s sake.”

“Stepsister,” Carmen drawled. “Correct me if I’m wrong, but there’s no blood relation there at all. And from what I can tell, this Nantha is one hot babe.”

“She’s pretty.” Brotherly pride mixed with revulsion made him swallow hard. “And, yes, I do have to beat back human suitors when she’s visiting on land. But all Merfolk are blessed with good looks.” He jerked his head toward Shayla. “You all know that.”

“I’m sorry.” Shayla sounded genuinely regretful. And, he thought, a tiny bit relieved. “But it’s something we had to ask.”

Not we. She. Did she really think so low of him to even consider the possibility that he and his baby sister were having an illicit love affair?

“I can see from the look on your face that the idea repulses you.” Carmen again, detached and observant. “So we’ll put that possibility to rest. Please, go ahead and fill out the rest of the questionnaire. We’re especially interested in knowing about any boyfriends Nantha might have or have had. Past ones would be of special interest.”

Boyfriends. Question sixteen. He paused, taking a moment to think. Nantha always had a crush on someone, but it seemed to change every couple of weeks. He knew she dated, but she’d never mentioned anything serious.

All three women nodded when he passed this information on. “I’ll look into it when I go back to Coral,” Shayla said. The low thrum of her voice reached deep inside of him, sparking arousal. To hide this, he swallowed hard and focused on the questionnaire.

Once he’d answered all the questions to the best of his ability, he slid the paper across the table. Shayla took it and began reading. She asked for clarification on one of two things—he’d listed a few odd jobs where Nantha had worked, but only a couple of places where he thought she might hang out. As for hobbies, the only one that came to mind was reading.

“Surely there must be more,” Shayla pressed. “What about exercise, working out? Or fishing? Does she like any sports?”

“No. She’s actually pretty quiet.” He thought for a moment, then sat up straighter. “Music. She loves to sing and dance.”

Nodding, Shayla scribbled that down on the form. “Most Mermaids do,” she commented. Picking up her glass, she drained her wine. He realized both Carmen and Maddie had already finished their drinks, as well.

Eyeing his still mostly full beer, he took a sip. Briefly, he considered slugging it all down, but decided against it, especially since Shayla didn’t seem nearly as affected by him as he was by her.

He slid his own folder across the table. “I had some fliers printed up. I spent the day going around the island having them put up. They’re laminated, so they should do well under water. Feel free to take them with you if you think they might help.”

“Perfect!” Shayla beamed at him, which made his heart skip a beat. “I can definitely use them. I think they’ll really help.”

“I hope someone who knows where she is sees them,” he said, his chest suddenly tight.

Shayla slapped some money on the table. “Drinks are on me,” she said. “I don’t know about ya’ll, but I need to go. It’s been a long day for me.”

The other women stood, as well. Relieved he didn’t feel obligated to sit and make small talk with the others, he pushed back his chair and did the same.

Below, the band played a steady stream of eighties hits. He knew once they got downstairs, it would be damn near impossible to hear anything.

Apparently, Shayla realized this, too.

“We’ll get to work immediately,” she said, holding out her hand. He reached out, and again, the instant their fingers connected he felt a jolt straight to his core. From the way her eyes widened, he had to think she felt it, too.

“You’ve got my cell number.”

“Yes.” After she released him, he shook hands with the other two women, keeping his face expressionless when he touched the Vampire. He knew his feelings were irrational, and while he didn’t completely understand them—after all, he even had a couple of Vampire friends—he didn’t have time to indulge in self-analysis. Getting his sister back was all that mattered.

Leaving his unfinished beer on the table, he followed the women downstairs and out of the bar. Once they reached the end of the alley, the three women went in the opposite direction. At a slight loss, he stood and watched until they disappeared from sight.

Now what? He could get in his car and head home to his place in Texas City, but he knew his mother would still be awake and frantic. Keeping her company would be the best thing to do. Plus, he needed to fill her in on what he’d accomplished today with the fliers, as well as tell her about hiring the Shadow Agency. He also needed to know if his mom had heard anything from Ion.

When Zach arrived back at his mother’s house, she met him at the door. “Don’t you ever check your messages?” she asked, her voice shaking. “I sent texts, too.”

This was so unusual it worried him. Eyeing her, he realized she looked unusually pale. Her blue eyes were red and puffy, as if she’d been crying. And more than her voice shook. Tiny tremors rocked her slender frame.

“I’m sorry,” he said, pulling her close for a quick hug. “I didn’t hear my phone. It’s been a crazy kind of day.” He pulled his cell from his pocket and checked. Four missed calls, an equal number of messages and texts from his mother saying simply, “Call me immediately.”

Dammit. When he raised his gaze to meet his mother’s, he saw tears now streamed down her cheeks.

Dread momentarily paralyzed him. “Nantha?” he asked, hardly able to force the words out past the lump in his throat. “Do you have news? Is she...” He swallowed hard, unable to finish the sentence.

“Oh, no. Not that.” His mom gave him a quick, fierce hug. “It’s okay, honey. She’s still alive,” June said. “Sorry, I should have realized you’d think the worst. Come with me.” And she turned and went toward the kitchen, knowing he’d follow.

Which he did, right on her heels. Oddly enough, his horrified assumption of the worst appeared to have calmed her. Hand steady, she reached for a folded piece of white paper on the counter, and handed it to him. “Take a look. This is crazy.”

“What is this?” he asked, accepting it. “Who’s it from?”

“Read it,” she managed, before turning away. Despite that, he could see that she covered her mouth with one hand in order to muffle her sobs.

Dread coiling low in his gut, he opened the single sheet of paper, noting the way it had been precisely folded into three exact, equal sections. He also noted the high-quality paper; not your ordinary, run-of-the-mill copier paper. Interesting. And then he began to read.

TO THE FAMILY OF THE MERMAID KNOWN AS NANTHA, it began. Typed, not handwritten. All in caps. Swallowing hard, he forced himself to continue reading.

SHE IS ALIVE, the missive continued. AND OF NO USE TO US. IF YOU WANT HER BACK, YOU WILL DO WHAT WE SAY. WE ARE WILLING TO EXCHANGE HER FOR TWO OTHER MERMAIDS. BUT THEY MUST BE VIRGINS. MORE INSTRUCTIONS WILL FOLLOW.

And that was all. No way to contact the letter writer, no instructions, other than asking for two virgin Mermaids.

“What the hell?” He read it again to be sure he’d gotten it right. “Is this someone’s idea of a joke?”

But now his mother was crying so hard she couldn’t answer. He hugged her, wondering what kind of son of a bitch would even think of writing such a thing. “Have you told Ion?” he asked gently.

“I’ve asked him to come immediately,” she managed. Communicating with those under the sea could be touch-and-go. Apparently, she’d actually managed to make contact.

A knock on the patio door made him freeze. Zach spun around, ready to do battle. When he realized who it was, relief flooded him. “It’s Ion,” he said, releasing his mother so he could unlock and open the door. “He must have gotten your message.”

“Zach.” Though he only had eyes for his weeping wife, Ion jerked his chin in a quick nod at Zach as he rushed to pull June into his arms. “What is this?” he asked, kissing her forehead. “Speak to me, darling. You said it was urgent. Tell me, what’s happened?”

His questions only made her cry harder. Ion glanced over her shoulder at Zach, one brow raised in question. “Do you know?” he mouthed.

“Yes. She—we got a letter,” Zach responded, unable to keep from reading it one more time. “About Nantha. It’s crazy. It doesn’t even make sense.”

Ion gently steered June to a chair. “Sit, love,” he ordered. “Let me take a look at this.”

Zach handed it over, watching as the Merman silently read it. And then reread it.

“What do you make of it?” Zach asked when Ion raised his gaze from the paper to meet his. “Do you think it’s genuine?”

“Unfortunately, yes. It doesn’t read like a prank. The letter writer is definitely serious.” He read it once more, exhaling sharply when he got to the end. “This isn’t good at all. But, on the plus side, this means my daughter is still alive.”

Zach nodded. “If they’re telling the truth, yes.”

At his words, his mother shot him a teary-eyed glare. “Think positive,” she admonished him. “Nantha is alive. She has to be.”

“Of course she is,” Zach replied, keeping his voice gentle. “I have no doubt about that.”

Reading the missive once more, Ion frowned. “The request for virgin Mermaids has me stymied, I must admit. It sounds like something from ancient legends.”

Zach nodded, aware of what the older man meant, and didn’t dare say out loud within his mother’s hearing. Sacrificial virgins, meant to appease either some mythical god or monster.

Insanity, right? But clearly, the letter writer believed what he or she had written.

“Well?” June demanded, wiping at her eyes with the back of her hand. She stood, looking from her husband to her son and back again. “What are you going to do about this?”

Again, the two men exchanged silent looks. Zach knew they’d talk later, in private.

“I’ve hired a paranormal private investigation firm to help search,” Zach said. He went on to tell them about the three women, one Mermaid, one Shifter and a Vampire.

His mother recoiled at the last, but didn’t comment.

“I want to meet with them,” Ion declared. “Especially the Mermaid. It would help me tremendously to have someone else helping me under the sea.”

“I want to meet them, too,” June put in, her voice fierce and determined. “Since one of them is a Shifter, she may be able to find a way for me to help.”

“Fine.” Zach didn’t see the harm in setting up a gathering. In fact, it might actually help to have the others see who else was involved. “I’ll see if they’re available to meet tomorrow night at Broken Chains.”

Both Ion and June nodded. Like everyone else in the paranormal community, they’d visited the bar more than once. While there were several others up north in Houston, Broken Chains was the oldest and most well-known.

“I’ve also involved the Pack Protectors,” Zach continued. “They’ve promised to keep an eye out.”

Though June nodded, Ion scowled. “I don’t see how they could help. They can’t search under the sea.”

“We don’t know that’s where she is,” Zach said.

“You’d better hope she’s under the ocean,” Ion shot back. “She’s got to have seawater or she’ll die.”

June’s eyes welled up again at his words, making Ion curse. He gathered his wife close, murmuring soothing words to her. Zach took that opportunity to leave the room.

Stepping out onto the patio, he stared into the darkness. Nantha was somewhere out there, scared and worried, held captive by some fools with insane ideas about sacrificial virgins. He wondered if she knew that one thing had apparently been what saved her—that she wasn’t a virgin.

Shaking his head, he dug his phone out again and punched in Shayla’s number. She answered on the second ring and listened intently while he told her about the letter. “It’s true, what your stepfather said,” she told him. “Centuries ago, virgin sacrifices were a thing. Or so the legends go. The humans claimed it was to appease a dragon or, even earlier, various gods and goddesses. Under the sea, the dragon usually was a giant squid. Once in a while, in really ancient times, I’ve read about an angry sea god, Poseidon or one of his demigods.”

“But those were all ancient tales. Some of them might have even been myths,” she continued. “I’m not sure why someone would be trying to resurrect those stories in today’s world. Poseidon has a temper, but even he’s moved beyond asking for virgin sacrifices.”

Poseidon? He decided not to ask.

“Maybe someone is trying to start a new religion, or a cult?” he asked. “Have you heard anything about something like that?”

“No. But not only will I let the Pods know, I’ll definitely ask around when I go visit again. Which will be soon. I plan to put up those missing person posters you gave me and visit the neighborhoods where she went to school and worked.”

“Good.” He told her about Ion’s request for a meeting with the Shadow Agency.

“That’s fine,” she immediately said. “As long as you’re okay with it. You are the client, after all, so what you say goes.”

“Tomorrow night?” he asked. “Say around eight, at Broken Chains?”

“Let me get with the others, but I’m sure that’ll be fine. I’m going to call and see if I can reserve a private room for a few hours. It’ll be easier to talk that way.”

Once he agreed, she ended the call, promising to let him know if anything changed.

He wandered back inside, noting his mother and Ion had disappeared to their bedroom. He knew he should head back home to Texas City, but it had been a long day, and his mother kept the guest bedroom bed made up for situations like this. He grabbed a bottle of water and went to bed early.

* * *

When he woke the next morning and wandered out into the kitchen to grab some coffee, his mother had started frying up some bacon. The smell made his mouth water.

“Good morning,” she said, smiling, her posture relaxed. “I’m glad you decided to spend the night. I know it’s a lot farther for you to go into work, so I figured a good breakfast would help.”

She seemed so pleased with herself and so much happier than she’d been the previous night, that he didn’t have the heart to tell her he’d taken two weeks’ vacation. Plus, if he told her that, she’d want him to hang around the house most of the day. He needed to get back to the heart of the island as well as make a few phone calls. He hadn’t yet informed the Pack Protectors about the note, and he knew they’d definitely want to know.

Dutifully, he took a seat at the table, happy to eat his mother’s cooking. It revived his spirits to see her looking so much better.

“Where’s Ion?” he asked, once he’d cleaned his plate and pushed it away.

She smiled. “He headed out at first light to talk to his contacts in his underwater city. He’ll be back by afternoon. He also wanted me to tell you he’s sorry, but considering what’s happened, he’s going to have to postpone your meeting with Teredia.”

Teredia. He blanked for a second before remembering she was the Mermaid Ion had wanted Zach to marry. Though Zach hadn’t met her yet, Ion had claimed the alliance would help Nantha tremendously, by virtue of family connections. In the photo he’d shown Zach, Teredia was stunning.

When Zach had asked why someone who looked like that would need an arranged marriage, Ion had laughed. “It’s complicated,” he’d said. “I’ll let her tell you, if you’ll agree to do this for your sister.”

Zach had given his tentative agreement, with the caveat that he could back out if Teredia and he weren’t a match. He didn’t have much of a social life—engineers weren’t known for their scintillating conversational skills—so he’d told himself it wouldn’t hurt to try and be open to new experiences. Then he’d promptly put it to the back of his mind. Clearly Ion hadn’t.

“That’s fine.” He waved his hand dismissively. “I can’t even think about that right now. But I’m glad Ion’s going to be back tonight.” He told her about the meeting at Broken Chains that night at eight. “Can you make sure and let him know?”

“Of course.” She carried his plate and hers to the sink. “I’m looking forward to meeting your friends. I just wish it was under better circumstances.”

He started to point out that they weren’t exactly friends, but decided against it. Whatever she needed to believe to make herself feel better was okay with him.

“Thanks for breakfast, Mom.” He kissed her cheek. “I’ve got to go. I’ll see you at Broken Chains, tonight.”

The sadness in her gaze echoed how he felt in his heart. He sighed and left. He knew the drive back to Texas City would feel twice as long as usual, but he wanted to go home and change before making those phone calls.

On the way there, his cell phone rang. Caller ID showed Unknown Caller. His heart skipped a beat. While it was possible someone was calling who’d seen his poster and had information about his sister, he had a gut feeling this was something else.

“Did you get the note?” a low voice growled. Masculine, he thought, though the voice-garbling software made it difficult to tell.

“I did.” He kept his tone even, stifling the rage that filled him. Somehow, he managed to keep it contained. “How did you get this number?”

“Never mind that,” the anonymous person said. “Have you considered my offer?”

Though there were many ways Zach could have responded to that, he knew he didn’t have time to waste. “Consider it? I have no idea where I’d find virgins, never mind virgin Mermaids.”

“Really?” The caller sounded unconcerned. “If you don’t, then my little captive’s father should know. Ask him. Otherwise, tell him his daughter is going to die. You have one week. No longer.” And then, with a click, the person ended the call.

Stunned, Zach stared at his phone. He punched Redial, but only got a recording stating that the call could not be completed as dialed.

Clearly, this meant the letter writer had been serious. While he could infer from this that Nantha was still alive and they might be able to save her, he knew beyond a shadow of a doubt he couldn’t be part of some sort of sacrifice. Two innocent lives for his sister’s? No.

But would Ion feel the same way? For the first time ever, Zach wasn’t certain his stepfather would do the right thing.

While this was something else he’d discuss with the Shadow Agency, he decided he wouldn’t tell June just yet. Due to the letter’s implications, he could only imagine her reaction. No, when and if he decided to fill Ion in, he’d need to catch the Merman alone before he went back to the ocean.

For the first time, he wondered why the captors had chosen to reach out to him rather than Nantha’s father, especially since they wanted virgin Mermaids.

Chapter 5

Shayla got to Broken Chains early, before the place had even begun to fill up. The band hadn’t even arrived yet. Johnny, the bartender, looked up when she entered, his expression surprised. “You’re really early,” he commented.

“I rented a private room,” she told him, smiling. “Can I get a ginger ale?” The soft drink had become a favorite. And it was far too early in the day to drink.

“Of course,” he said, pouring the beverage into a glass without ice, just the way she liked it. He checked a clipboard. “You’ve got room three. I’ll start a tab.”

“Thank you.” Carrying her drink with her, she headed toward the back of the bar, where bright red double doors separated the main area from the private rooms. Rumor had it that all kinds of deals were conducted in those four windowless spaces. Shayla didn’t know for certain, as she’d never rented one before.

Lately, every time she set foot in Broken Chains she marveled at how this place—a bar, for shark’s sake—felt so much like home. But here was truly the first place she’d ever been where no one was judged for any reason. Talk about diversity—Shifters and Vampires and Merfolk, and who knew what else, all coexisted in harmony. The knowledge, as well as the experience of finally feeling as if she belonged somewhere, made Broken Chains her home away from home.

Once she stepped through the double doors, she stood in a short hallway that ended with a full-length mirror decorating the wall and reflecting her image back at her. There were two doors on each side, numbered. Number three was the last door on the right.

She went to it, grasping the knob. Giddy with anticipation, she opened the door and stepped inside.

The perfectly square room looked like a conference room. Beige walls, boring artwork framed in walnut, dark hardwood floors and a large round mahogany conference table with six upholstered chairs.

At first disappointed, she shook her head and laughed. What had she expected really? Red upholstered couches and gilt coated lamps? This wasn’t a whorehouse, after all.

For whatever reason, she thought of Zach. It had been a long time since she’d battled such a fierce attraction to a man. Of course, since he was her client, this was not only inappropriate, but dangerous. She needed to keep her full attention on the investigation.

Setting her tote bag down on the table, she pulled out her laptop and powered it up. Might as well check the internet connection before the meeting. Maddie had also promised to be there early so they could get everything set up. Carmen, too, though, like Maddie she’d had to work so would have to come straight from her job. As long as they were here before Zach and his family.

Shayla opened a thick manila folder. She’d printed out all of the research she’d done on virgin sacrifices, both in human history and Merfolk. She’d been tempted to ask her father to speak to Poseidon, but she knew all kinds of trouble came from getting the Sea God involved.

She slipped off her high heels, rubbing her aching feet together before taking a seat. While she loved the way the red-soled, spike-heeled shoes looked, she still hadn’t gotten used to walking in them. That hadn’t stopped her from buying several pairs. She figured she might as well build up her collection.

Now to deal with the business at hand. Time to make notes and see if she—along with Maddie and Carmen—could come up with any sort of plausible theory as to who might be holding Nantha. All before meeting with the young Mermaid’s parents and Zach at eight.

Maddie arrived thirty minutes later, when Shayla had just gotten into the research. Distracted, Shayla looked up when the door opened, slightly disoriented.

“Hey,” Maddie said, by way of greeting. “You seem really lost in thought.”

Shayla indicated the papers scattered all around her on the table. “Research.” She glanced at her watch, surprised to see thirty minutes had already passed. She’d also just about drained her ginger ale.

“Great.” Maddie pulled out a chair. “Fill me in.”

Shayla told her what she knew about the note and the follow-up phone call that Zach had received.

“Virgins?” Maddie asked, her tone incredulous. “So are we to infer from this that young Nantha is not?”

“Apparently.” Shayla shrugged. “She’s seventeen, after all.” And her people were known to have a very casual attitude toward pleasures of the flesh.

Maddie grinned. “I know what you mean.” She indicated the stack of articles. “What have you found out?”

“I don’t have anything but folklore.”

“Ah. The old virgin sacrifice trope?”

Shayla nodded. “Yes. For all I know, that could be nonsense inserted just to cause a smoke screen and throw off searchers. I just hope whoever has this young Mermaid understands how badly she has to be in water every so often.”

Maddie nodded, her gaze troubled. “We’ve got to find her,” she said. “It’s not only our first case, but I can’t help but think of my own little sister. I can’t imagine how I’d feel if something like this happened to her.”

“Agreed.” Shayla thought of Zach, of the way his hard features softened when he spoke of his stepsister. Seeing a man like him, so strong and rugged, at such a loss, made her feel as if she’d do anything to wipe that look of pain from his face.

“Since we don’t know if the demand for virgins thing is real or a smoke screen, we’ve got to find out if there are any other missing Mermaids,” Shayla continued. “I’ve already left word with the Pod—our Mer-council. Surely they’ll have records if anything like that has happened.”

“Right. And both you and Zach have contacted the Pack Protectors. So there’s that.”

Shayla nodded, struggling not to show her frustration. “You know in human disappearance cases, the first twenty-four hours are the most important. They say the chances of the victim being found alive diminishes exponentially for every hour after that. We’re at day four now.”

“That can’t be good.” Maddie sighed. “This is the part where I wish we had more experience as private investigators.”

“I agree, but I’m not sure how even experience would help in this instance,” Shayla said. “We have no witnesses, no evidence, nothing except this weird sort-of-ransom note. According to Zach there’s not even a way to contact them.”

“Yet,” Maddie said darkly. “I’m sure that’s next.”

The door opened, and Carmen glided into the room. Quickly, since Zach and his family would be there soon, Shayla and Maddie filled her in.

“Missing Mermaids,” Carmen mused. “If there are, we’ve got to find the reason. That’s what will lead us to the perps. Revenge? Lust? Love? Or is it something else?”

No one spoke, because no one had an answer. Shayla divided up the research, and they all began reading.

As before, time seemed to fly. A waiter appeared, bringing a pitcher of ice water and a tray of glasses. Carmen ordered a bottle of blood. Both Shayla and Maddie decided to stick with water.

Finally, Zach and his parents arrived. The instant Shayla caught sight of him, all the air seemed to leave the room. He ushered them inside, fussing over his mother, a tiny female Shifter with delicate features and neatly braided hair. Shayla’s gaze drifted past her to the stepfather, a tall, angular Merman whose mouth fell open in shock when he met her gaze. Crud. She should have thought of this. For whatever reason, she hadn’t considered the possibility that he’d recognize her.

“You’re...” Clearly stunned, he couldn’t finish.

“I’m Shayla,” she said firmly, holding out her hand. “One of the owners of the Shadow Agency.”

“Sorry,” Zach said, turning. “Shayla, this is Ion, and my mother, June. And this is Maddie and Carmen. They’re the other two partners.” He took a deep breath. “They’re all helping search for Nantha.”

June nodded, her gaze slipping past Carmen to return to light on her son. Meanwhile, Ion continued to stand, apparently frozen in shock. He didn’t take Shayla’s hand, though he did perform an awkward sort of bow in her general direction.

Of course, Zach noticed. “Ion, what’s wrong?”

Slowly, the tall Merman swiveled his silver head to meet Zach’s gaze. “Is this some kind of joke?”

“What?” Clearly puzzled, Zach frowned. “I’m not sure what you mean.”

“Princess Shayla.” Ion turned to face her, bowing again. “I am honored by your presence, though I admit to being confused. What ruse is this?”

Great. Now her secret was out in the open. Shayla sighed. She’d really hoped Zach’s stepfather would have the sense to keep her underwater status to himself. She hadn’t told anyone, not even her closest friends. Glancing at them, she swallowed hard. Even Maddie and Carmen stared, their expressions both stunned and confused. Of course, she couldn’t blame them. They’d had no idea she was anything other than an ordinary Mermaid.