Valkyrie's Spear: Wyrd Love, #2

Valkyrie’s Spear

Wyrd Love: Book 2

Cynthia Diamond

Artwork by Lynne Anderson

Copyright © 2015 by Cynthia Diamond

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, without prior written permission.

Publisher’s Note: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are a product of the author’s imagination. Locales and public names are sometimes used for atmospheric purposes. Any resemblance to actual people, living or dead, or to businesses, companies, events, institutions, or locales is completely coincidental.

Cover Art by Lynne Anderson.

Book Layout © 2014 BookDesignTemplates.com

Valkyrie’s Spear/ Cynthia Diamond—1st ed.

ISBN-13: 978-1517097530

ISBN-10: 1517097533

To Catherine Anderson for encouraging me to keep writing, Christine Morgan who dubbed me a Smut Mongering Minx, Lynne Anderson for her beautiful art, and Karine Charlebois for schooling me on pregnancy waddling.

And especially to Jennifer Anderson, my real life Valerie. You’re my Valkyrie, and I adore you.

Contents

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

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 1

THAT DARK FEELING OF emptiness returned, forcing Matthew awake for another night. The only option to quell his sleepless torment was to kneel and pray at the transept until he was blissfully numb again. That numbness did not come easily. It was close to four in the morning, and he should have locked up his church hours ago but his thoughts had hit him hard and fast.

Dark.

Empty.

Alone.

Our Father, who art in Heaven...

The creak of the large oak doors woke him from his meditations. Matthew watched over his shoulder as they opened into the shadows of the candlelit nave. He stood, the hairs on the back of his neck rising as a tall, lithe figure slipped inside. He knew what it wanted. Only a short while ago his church was almost set ablaze so of course they would return. His fists clenched.

They won't get it as long as there is a breath in me.

Hello? A feminine voice called out.

A female this time?

Soft footsteps padded down the aisle, and her figure grew more distinct as she strode closer to the surrounding candlelight. Matthew cursed himself for leaving the doors open, not wanting to fight in the house of his Maker.

It’s four in the morning, he said, hard and cold. He was a warrior once. Granted, he hadn’t battled in centuries, but he was still intimidating. Despite the growl under his words, she continued forward. Service will not begin until nine o'clock. You may return then, he added, giving her an easy out.

"Oh, someone is here. Fantastic!" Whoever she was, she was unperturbed by the threat in his tone.

The footsteps grew quicker and soon she appeared in the flickering glow of the tall pillar candles. Matthew’s breath caught at the sight of the goddess that marched towards him, proud chin lifted, red lips twisted into a smart little smirk. The sway of her hips was swift and rhythmic, making his heart pound with every step.

Matthew pressed a hand against his chest fearing that she would hear the intense beat thundering through his ribcage. He could tell her body was taut under that tight purple t-shirt and those faded blue jeans. Strong. Athletic. Her long raven locks swung as she walked, glossy and thick, pulled back into a neat ponytail at the base of her neck. She came to stop before him. So close. So dangerously close. Close enough that he could catch the heady scent of jasmine on her tanned skin. It made him dizzy.

Sorry to barge in on you, father, she said in a warm purr. But the door was unlocked.

Pinching the bridge of his nose tight, he closed his eyes. If he couldn’t see her, he wouldn’t have the impure thoughts that were racing through his head.

It was my mistake. It should have been locked for the night. Matthew fought to keep the irritation out of his voice. After a deep breath, he faced the woman. It didn’t help. She was still incredible. How may I help you?

The woman smiled. Her eyes were green and gold strands woven into a mesmerizing blanket that he longed to fall into. Gritting his teeth, he swallowed down the unwanted desire.

My name is Valerie. Valerie Constance. She offered a hand to him.

Constance.

The name brought back memories of an old friend with curly hair and a soft face filled with compassion. One he had trusted.

Cybil, Matthew murmured.

He took Valerie’s hand. The touch of her palm sent a jolt of delicious electricity sizzling up his arm. It was the first time he had touched a woman, well at least a woman that was so exquisite. Her grip was like a vice and he had to squeeze back, both to relieve the pressure as well as keep his dignity.

You know my mother? Valerie asked. Her head tilted curiously.

Cybil Constance is your mother?

Yes. The space between her brows tightened before she gave him another radiant smile. You knew her?

A long time ago.

Matthew remembered when Cybil was just a novice. Lord, the things she had seen while so young and naive. He had hoped to shield young humans like her from his world, but somehow Cybil had managed to find it. It hadn’t been long before she had spoken of leaving the veil to fight evils in the Wyrd.

I didn’t know she had a daughter. We lost touch. How is she? Matthew ran a free hand through his dark hair, realizing how cold his fingers were. He tore his hand away and straightened his spine, shoulders spread back.

Valerie pursed her lips into a tight line. She passed away.

Matthew’s stomach dropped. Passed away?

That vibrant life was snuffed out?

Tears push forward. Matthew always knew he would outlive Cybill but not so soon. Gone. His only friend was gone. If he hadn’t been so hell-bent on hiding from the world, maybe he would have known. I’m sorry. Truly.

Valerie shrugged, her hazel eyes growing glassy before she blinked them clear. I found the name of this church in some of her notes. I’m looking for someone with the initials A.R. I believe he or she has something I’m looking for.

The sadness evaporated, turning to cold suspicion.

She knows it’s here.

Matthew arched a brow looking deeper, beyond Valerie’s beautiful exterior to the light blue aura that pulsed around her. He had seen that aura before but not often. She was a Valkyrie. His suspicions grew even more.

No one with those initials resides here, he said.

Valerie leaned her elbow on the altar beside them, cocking a hip to the side as a slow grin grew. "You sure about that, father?’ she asked.

Very. Matthew turned away.

No one? Not even you?

Matthew paused. He clenched his jaw then snuffed out the tall pillar candles with his thumb and index finger. My name is Matthew DeAngelis. Do you hear the initials A and R in that name?

The coldness in his voice didn’t even put a dent in her sly smile. She just shrugged with a little chuckle. Maybe not at the beginning, Valerie said. Matthew replied with a growl. My, my, aren’t we testy this evening.

Being barged in on makes a man irritable. Now if you will please excuse me. It’s past the time I lock up.

The final flame was snuffed out, casting the church in blue tinted darkness. Faint streetlight poured through the stain-glass windows, outlining every lean muscle of Valerie’s statuesque body in cool highlights. As soon as he ripped his gaze from the seductive image he turned and headed to the doors.

Valerie pushed herself away from the altar and followed right on his heels. Matthew could feel her warmth radiating against his back, could smell her intoxicating perfume as it wrapped around him.

All right, I probably should have waited until the morning. My bad. But I like to jump right into the thick of things, she said.

Truly, this will be your downfall someday. Tragic. Good night.

Her hand fell heavy on his shoulder. The fact is I know who tried to burn down your church and what they want. I’m trying to beat them to the punch. Her voice lowered as she said, Tell me where the spear is and -

Matthew snagged an iron candlestick and spun on his heels, holding the makeshift weapon in his fists like a sword. Valerie backed up a couple steps, stance wide and solid. She was experienced, someone who would give him a more than fair fight. The sudden shift from seductress to warrior made him grip the iron tighter.

Oh, what a fight that would be.

A rush of adrenaline pulsed through his body, swelling his muscles, stealing his breath, and making him hard as steel. By the Maker, he hadn’t felt such a rush in a millennium. Valerie’s hand went into her purse and stayed there. Did she have pepper spray? A Taser? Not that either would do much harm to him.

Easy there, tiger, she said. Let’s not get violent. When she caught his gaze, she removed her hand from the leather bag, holding it out with her empty palm exposed. I’m on your side.

Your kind is usually quick to rile, Matthew said. I’m impressed with your self-control, Valkyrie.

Half Valkyrie. Valerie frowned. How did you know?

I just know. I also know that Cybil Constance was not of the Wyrd let alone a Valkyrie. There is no way you could be her daughter.

Valerie blazed. She clenched her fists then raised her chin with a haughty expression. My mother adopted me, asshole.

Matthew’s blood burned, the urge for violence rising. Watch your language in the house of the lord, Valkyrie, he hissed.

She stepped forward, teeth bared. "If you really were as good a friend with her as you say, you’d know she couldn’t have children naturally. And if I didn’t just get my nails done, I would punch you in the nose. She may not have been my blood but she was mine. Don’t you ever say that Cybil Constance wasn’t my mother, you pompous prick."

What little light that was in the room reflected off the shimmering tears that shrouded her expression. Matthew swallowed, burning hot with shame. He loosened his grip on the candlestick, letting it fall to the floor with a dull thump. I apologize. That was rude of me.

Yeah, it was, Valerie said. She tossed her pony tail over her shoulder with a cavalier air. You can make it up to me. Let me know where the Spear of Destiny is.

I can’t do that, he said.

How come?

Because it is my responsibility and none of your concern.

"So you’re A.R.? And actually, you’re wrong. It became my concern as soon as those fuckers used my sister in an attempt to find it."

Matthew winced again. Language.

Sorry. A tint of red polished Valerie’s cheeks. Matthew softened, the blush making his mouth quirk. Look, those mages aren’t going to stop until they have the spear and you’re dead.

He couldn’t fight the laugh that bubbled up. Mages couldn’t desecrate this house of God.

Valerie smirked, his laughter making her temper flare. Sorry to tell you this, Father Dumbass but they’ve already desecrated three.

What did I say about your language here?

That frown turned into a devilish air as she put her hands on her hips. What are you going to do? Spank me?

The thought had crossed his mind. In fact, it crossed it twice, much to his chagrin. He snorted and turned towards the door.

Miss Constance, I assure you they will not find the spear as long as I am standing. They tried once and failed. They know better now.

Valerie’s gaze raked up the length of him, caressing every inch of his body with a wanton heat that oozed right to his core.

You’re not human, are you? she asked. His silence seemed to confirm her suspicions. You scared them off with your magical priest powers or something. That’s why you’re so confident they won’t come back.

They won’t cross this threshold again. That is all you need to know.

He took a few more steps but when Valerie did not follow, he slowed, hoping she would. He longed to take another breath of her sensual perfume.

Control yourself!

The Valkyrie bewitched him. That was the only explanation. She had somehow put a seduction spell on him and his mind was in a muddle.

I figured that would be your answer, Valerie sighed. You need my help, Father. Those mages are ruthless. They’ll just find another way inside.

And what can you do for me?

Protect you.

He wanted to dismiss the idea that she -a half Valkyrie, half human- could possess the strength to protect the likes of him. But he could feel the power pulsating from her body. There was a fire in her expression and proud stance. Valerie was a warrior, like him.

She is capable.

Matthew had to respect that, despite her foul mouth and body built for sin.

After a tiny nod, he said, I will consider your offer.

When she lit up, he fought for breath. She strode towards him, that wonderful scent of jasmine once again tickling his nose.

Well, if that’s the best answer I’m going to get out of you, Father, I’ll take it.

She took one of Matthew’s hands, her fingers smooth against his flesh. If he didn’t think he could grow hotter, her touch proved him wrong. He craved to clutch that hand tight, press it to his cheek then to his lips. A trickle of sweat ran down the side of his face but his expression was unmoved, cold as ice.

Valerie reached into her purse and pulled out a pen. This is my contact information. If you need me, you come get me.

The ballpoint tickled as she wrote on his palm and he flinched, almost pulling away. A laugh snorted through his nostrils. She said nothing but appeared amused as his smile threatened to appear.

You don’t have any paper in your purse? he asked.

Paper is easily lost. This will help you remember me better.

Nothing will help me remember you better than this, he thought.

He shuddered, then pulled his hand away when she finished, glancing down at the address she had scribbled onto his skin. Matthew was just about to ask her to stay longer when the robust sound of a woman singing came from outside the church doors.

Singing? This late? Matthew asked.

The windows began to rattle and Matthew tensed, looking to Valerie for an explanation. Valerie paled. The pen fell from her hands and she took a step towards the doors.

Dell, she whispered, before she broke into a run.

Frantic banging shook the heavy oak and the muffled sound of a young woman’s voice screamed, Help! Val! Oh God, help! through the music outside.

Phoebe! Valerie shouted and picked up her pace. Matthew sprung after her, snagging a hold of her arm before she reached the doors.

It may be dangerous. Don’t go out there, he demanded.

My sisters are in trouble! He’s going to kill them!

Before he could ask who, Valerie pulled her arm free and yanked a shimmering silver sword from her purse. The brown leather of her bag stretched and molded into a sheath and she slung it around her back.

Come with me! Help me! she said.

Matthew stared at the doors, clenching his teeth. The same rush from before coursed through his veins and his palms grew slick, eager for a weapon. The thrill of the fight surged in his breast, drowning out the pain and numbness.

But the battle would lead him away from his duty. The last time that happened he was damned for eternity, forever to walk the earth with no forgiveness, no chance to ever be welcomed back into the arms of his brothers. Walking out those doors could destroy his endgame. He’d be trapped with only his pain for company, forever.

Beyond those doors is not your concern.

His duty was to protect the spear, protect his church. Not this woman.

Matthew set his mouth into a grim line. I can’t, he said.

Valerie went cold at his refusal. What?

I can’t help you. It’s beyond my control.

The brightness of her blue aura turned black with fury. She glared, burning through him like a hot knife through butter.

Coward, she growled then ran out the doors. They slammed, making him jolt in disgust.

The sounds of struggle echoed through the windows. Matthew wanted to cover his ears to drown out the din but he knew it would do no good. Soon, the singing stopped. Soon the screaming stopped. Soon there was nothing but a thick silence.

Damn me, Matthew snarled. Damn me for doing such a thing.

His feet were heavy as he trudged back to the transept, falling to his knees. He clasped his hands tight and pressed them against his forehead.

Our father, who art in heaven...

Chapter 2

THREE MONTHS LATER

You look cold so drink this.

A cup of coffee was shoved into Valerie’s line of sight, blocking her clear view of the nightclub below. Her sister Adelle hovered over her, holding the cup patiently. The wind whipped her bright red curls against her cheek, and with a free hand she tucked the wild strands behind her ear. Valerie stared at the coffee as if it were a mirage. The delicious smell wafted into her nose as steam curled over the paper rim and into the chilled air. She had missed her caffeine that morning. Hell, she had missed sleep that morning too.

Go on, take it, Adelle said. Stop staring at it like I’m Houdini. She chuckled and pressed the large cup in Valerie’s hand then stepped aside to crouch down beside her. You’re a complete zombie lately. And while it is entertaining to watch you walk into walls, I’d rather you have some wits about you when you’re out in the field.

Valerie sipped eagerly. The hot elixir hit her taste buds and her eyes opened just a bit wider. No cream, just sugar. Adelle always knew how Valerie liked her drug of choice, thank God.

Where did you get the coffee? she asked.

Downstairs, about half a block down. I told you I was going, but I had a feeling you didn’t hear me. Adelle rubbed her hands together and shivered.

Even for San Diego, it was a chilly evening. Being perched on the roof of a tall apartment complex added to the wind chill but gave them a perfect view of Numeros, a night club down in the local Gay-borhood, Hillcrest.

Shouldn’t we be patrolling the sidewalks? Adelle asked.

Valerie sighed. You wanted to come with me. You do things the way I do them.

The reply made Adelle snort.

All right, maybe it wasn’t how she usually did things. Valerie patrolled the streets on a regular night but tonight she was watching for that damn priest.

Again.

Every Thursday was Goth Night at Numeros and for some reason that brought Father Matthew DeAngelis out of hiding. Not every week, but enough to make Valerie stake out the place. Of course, she didn’t tell her sisters about her current obsession. Adelle had already told her to leave it be.

If Mom trusted him with the spear, she did it for a reason, Adelle had said.

Adelle was right but Valerie couldn’t turn off her gut instincts. She needed to get her hands on that spear. Besides, she only listened to Adelle seventy percent of the time and couldn’t kill that track record.

I’ve had a lot on my mind, Valerie said. After what happened to us, I’ve been on my toes.

After what happened to us, I figured you’d need a nap. Lord knows I did, Adelle said.

Valerie gritted her teeth, growing flushed. Those mages tortured you, Adelle. They made me and Phoebe watch. How can you be so calm about that?

Who said I was calm? Val, I got my own demons to deal with about that. Her sister pressed a gentle hand against Valerie’s shoulder. Stop blaming yourself.

The touch was soothing but not enough to chase away the cold tendrils of failure that curled around her chest. Valerie took another sip of her coffee then sucked in a breath, pushing all the dark thoughts to the back of her mind.

Fight the shame spiral. Fight it.

The smile she flashed seemed to reassure Adelle, and the subject was dropped.

Jeeze! It’s cold up here! Phoebe, their baby sister, stomped over, rubbing her hands across her arms. Why are we even up this high? I mean, is this legal?

Valerie waved a hand to her. I have an agreement with the super here. It’s fine.

So you slept with him, Phoebe said.

Valerie cackled, shaking her head.

Adelle shared the laugh. Sheesh, Pheebs. Val doesn’t sleep with everyone she has agreements with.

Oh, I don’t know. I’ve been known to throw the whore grenade around once or twice, Valerie replied

Phoebe hmmed at Valerie. Once or twice. Riiiiight.

Phoebe giggled then settled herself down on the other side of Valerie, holding her small cup of hot chocolate. She popped off the lid and blew over the top, watching the party ready locals spill out onto the street. Valerie bit her lip then scooted a bit closer to Phoebe, hearing her sigh as she crept near.

Talking to me again? Valerie murmured.

Phoebe looked into her cup a long moment, her pink lips pursed in thought. Maybe, she said. Are you going to keep lying to me still?

Valerie sighed and ran hand through her thick dark hair. I did it for your own good.

Phoebe turned her back on Valerie, sipping her hot chocolate with what could only be described as righteous indignation.

I don’t like that you did it at all. I don’t want you to do it again. Sisters shouldn’t lie to each other like that, Val.

I didn’t lie. I just withheld some things that -

I would’ve liked to have known I was half dryad. You should have told me about my powers years ago, no matter what Mom said. Phoebe gave her an icy glare. I could have helped fight those mages outside the church if I had known.

You helped us escape later, Valerie said.

But I could have prevented it from even happening if I had known, Phoebe snapped. Why can’t you just admit that Mom wasn’t always right about everything?

Valerie pointed a finger at Phoebe, swallowing her annoyance before it exploded in a shout. Don’t even go there, Pheebs. Mom was right about a lot of-

Phoebe didn’t let her finish. She jumped to her feet and padded to Adelle, plopping herself down beside her. Adelle shook her head with a groan.

Am I going to have to lock you two in a room until you play nice? she asked, rubbing her temples.

I’m willing but little Miss Foo-Foo Britches here- Valerie jerked her thumb towards Phoebe. Won’t put her big girl panties on and forgive me.

You haven’t earned it yet, Phoebe said. At least say you’re sorry!

Sorry for what? Protecting you? Letting you have a normal childhood like Dell and me?

Phoebe snorted. Valerie snorted in return then rose to her feet, eager to leave the hefty shroud of anger behind.

Well, that was productive, Adelle said.

Valerie waved a hand, dismissing the