Beyond the Shadows: Twins of Aurora, #3

A Note to the Reader

Thank you so much for following the twins through this journey. In this final chapter, you will see a shift in the writing. As the end of their story comes, we will follow all the characters who have shaped the adults Avalina and Aiden have become from a third-person narrative. Enjoy the final chapter of this amazing journey of love, fantasy, fire, water, earth, and air!

Synopsis

Shadows are never far from light.

With Aurora’s leaders firmly in control, there was no better time for Nick and Jess to venture off and experience college life. However, shadows dwell and darkness finds Aurora once more.

While back in the human world, enjoying the successful conclusion of their freshman year of college, Nick and Jess head out to celebrate, only to find one of Aurora’s leaders searching them out with news of a dark new world back home. With the fates of the twins and many other loved ones unknown, Nick and Jess head back to Aurora and all the elemental magic that balance it, only to find a world suspended in time with new mythological creatures reaching beyond a veil that was long ago forged to keep those inhabiting Aurora safe and protected.

On this final epic journey, Nick and Jess must rely on and work together to save their friends and family from what has reached beyond the veil to shadow all they had fought to save only a year ago.

Table of Contents

A Note to the Reader

Synopsis

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Three

Chapter Thirty-Four

Chapter Thirty-Five

Chapter Thirty-Six

Chapter Thirty-Seven

Chapter Thirty-Eight

Chapter Thirty-Nine

Chapter Forty

Epilogue

Copyright

Also by the Author

About the Author

Prologue

With the shadows descending, Ava watched as the golden light that protected the castle began to falter. The animals under Hedeon’s care fell to the vibrant earth as darkness stretched across the lands. With a smile on her lush lips and love shining bright in her eyes, Ava reached for Aro.

I love you, guardian... Nick will fix this. Him and Jess.

Aro sighed heavily. If Scarlet gets to Aiden and they make it out.

Her smile stretched even wider. She will. Without us on her back, she can circle this whole land before the spell reaches the mountain.

Placing a large, warm hand on the side of her neck, Aro pulled Ava close. "I love you too, destium." As the light faded around them, Aro sealed his lips over hers, locking them together as perpetual darkness took hold of the lands.

***

Aiden sighed, standing at the mouth of a cave—the Dragon Riders’ cave. The Riders had long hidden in these caves, finding shelter among the cool earth; and now, after months of freedom and time spent rebuilding their villages, they were once again seeking shelter deep within the side of Aurora’s eastern skyline. Aiden watched as three of his favorite dragons disappeared into the darkening horizon.

We should have gone with them, Thea spoke softly, as she came to stand beside him.

He watched the dark, bruising fog roll over the castle and make its way towards Skye and their people. I wouldn’t leave you or any of them, he said, gesturing behind her where the rest of the riders huddled deep in the earth, and the dragons wouldn’t make it with us on their backs.

Lacing her fingers with his, she squeezed his hand and blew out a sad breath. It took the castle, she whispered. We have to go. We can’t just stay here and wait for it to reach us.

It’s too late. Don’t you get it? Aiden smiled sadly at her as he lifted their hands and his gaze dropped to the golden tattoo that decorated his right wrist. It’s changing.

That doesn’t mean it’s over.

No, but it means Ava has fallen to the spell and I will end up following her into it. Pulling Thea close, he held her as the fog ran rampant towards them. We have one chance left, and I won’t flee.

Thea laid her face against his chest. I just want you safe.

Aiden laughed. And I want you safe.

So we’re relying on Nick, she said softly.

Don’t count Jess out. She’s stronger than you think.

With those words, Thea nodded and lifted her face to his. I love you, and I’ll be right here once it’s over.

So will our people, and our dragons will be back, too.

Thea nodded and kissed him hard as the fog rushed the mouth of the cave, snuffing out the last of the light that had given Aurora life.

Chapter One

Jess shoved open the door to the small, off-campus house she shared with Nick. Brushing back her long blonde hair as it whipped in the wind of a warm, spring day in Northern California, she kicked a pair of sneakers to the side. With a sigh, she slammed the door behind her, nearly losing her messenger bag—loaded with too many textbooks to be good for her back—in the process.

Nick! She called out for the former and now-sulking warrior of her best-friend-turned-magical-queen. Nicholi! she shouted again, setting her bag down as she began picking up after her man-child roommate... and now the closest thing she had to a best friend.

Jess missed Ava like crazy. It had been months since they’d heard a word from anyone in Aurora, but all had been good. Aurora was thriving; the dragons were growing; and Aiden’s heart now belonged to not only his rider, Thea, but also his yearling dragon, Ozzy.

She shook her head just thinking of the little midnight-blue dragon and all the mischief he had caused the last time she and Nick had been in Aurora visiting. Ozzy was a fitting name.

Nick! she called again as she dropped the mail on their coffee table and picked up an empty beer bottle.

What are you shrieking about? He’s in the shower.

Lifting her green gaze, Jess narrowed her eyes. A tall, lengthy blonde stood in his doorway with a sneer twisting her cold lips.

Oh, hey, Angelina. I didn’t realize you were here.

She snorted. Would it keep you from screeching at him?

Jess rolled her eyes. She hated Angelina, but she tried to be polite. Politeness hadn’t really been her style prior to making her way to Aurora and spending time with Hedeon, but the leader of the nature nymphs had taught her a lot about herself, life, and love. She had loved Hedeon, for all that he was and how he thought, but that life wasn’t meant for her. She didn’t belong with a king—she was more the jester’s girl.

Hell, she had wanted Aiden for years, and even before he’d known he was a king, he’d rejected her. He wasn’t hurtful, and he loved her on some level, but not like she needed or wanted. And now she stood in the small home she shared with her last remaining friend from high school, and she had to deal with the bitchy volleyball captain he was now sleeping with.

Well, since he’s my roommate and I’ve known him for as long as I can remember, the screeching goes both ways. We’re like family.

Jess smiled sweetly, knowing it would piss Angelina off. She was just the newest girl in Nick’s life, though admittedly, she’d lasted a lot longer than most.

Nick had changed since leaving Aurora and, more importantly, leaving Ava behind. He still loved her, it had shifted to something he could move past, but Jess still saw the pain from time to time. Nick was full of secrets and hid them all well. They had been each other’s strength over the past year, ever since leaving the enchanted world their best friends and Nick’s family lived in.

For now, maybe... but you’re replaceable, Jessica. Don’t forget it.

Jess sighed. Stopping right next to Angelina, she yelled through Nick’s open door, "Hey guardian, we have plans! Study group isn’t going to wait all afternoon for your pretty ass to get ready."

Be quiet, you pushy little nature nymph. I’ll be ready in five.

Jess rolled her eyes but couldn’t suppress a small smile as she moved into her room and changed quickly, then grabbed a notebook and her Religion in America textbook. She waited patiently while Nick dealt with Angelina—apparently the guardian and nature nymph comments hadn’t gone over well. Once the front door closed, signaling that Angelina was no longer gracing their home with her charming presence, Jess emerged with a smile stretching her pretty face.

He groaned. That pissed her off.

Jess shrugged. I really don’t care, Nicholi. She’s horrid and you can do way better.

But she’s hot. He grinned.

And a bitch... and by the way, you sound like Aiden before Thea.

Nick lifted her things from her hands and slung his arm around her shoulders, ushering her out the front door. Then you should like me even better. He winked.

Sighing, she shook her head, ducked out of his arm, and locked their door. Let’s not get into the crappy nature of our love lives. I missed out... it wasn’t meant to be. He’s great with Thea. And as far as Hedeon goes—‘cause I know that’s your next line of commentary—he was great and sweet, but I’m no queen. I’m not Ava... it never would have lasted.

Nick shrugged as they headed off to the campus library, but he didn’t say anything to that. Jess was different than Ava, but not less in any way like she seemed to think. However, he got what she meant because he was no Araios. The girl that got away from him had ended up with his older brother.

Life was twisted and unfair sometimes.

And don’t think I don’t see what you are doing, Nicholi—

I hate when you use my full name. It means you’re serious.

Well, I kind of am. Angelina is no substitute for Ava. She may have some of the same features, but she is nothing like my amazing best friend.

Your amazing best friend that...well, that wasn’t meant for me.

Doesn’t mean there isn’t a good, amazing girl out there for you. Maybe she’s here, or maybe she’s back in Aurora... I don’t know exactly why you came back—I think it might have been a little for me—but I also know you were running, just a bit.

He groaned. We do not need to have this convo again.

Well, I think we might, because if for some stupid reason you end up with Angelina long term, I will disown you. She is a bad person, and by the way, the bitch said I was replaceable.

Nick laughed and again tucked Jess under his arm. There is no replacing you... Remember what Aro said? You’re the pushy little blonde, and that’s what I love about you.

Jess snorted. Your brother was so weird that first night. I really did think you both had fallen off the deep end.

Well, he’s always struggled with timing, and he was scared. I had just been reminded that my life wasn’t what I had been pretending it to be. I saw everything I’d wanted and hoped for falling apart right before my eyes... it was a strange night. And look where it led us. Nick pulled the library door open and ushered her inside.

She smiled up at him and noted softly, Our best friends coupled up with magical people, and us in California at a huge university, heading to the campus library to study for our last final of freshman year.

Nick grinned back. Exactly. After tomorrow, we have to do something fun. We have to go to Dean’s bonfire at the beach.

Deal, but we have to get food first, and a sober driver.

I got both covered. We’ll hit Martha’s on the way out there, and I will be your sober chauffeur.

I knew you were a good guy. She winked and hurried to their waiting study group.

Chapter Two

Morning came too soon after a late night of studying. Jess rolled from her bed, and like a character who couldn’t escape the zombies from The Walking Dead, she stumbled her way into the bathroom. Bypassing makeup and just simply brushing her hair and teeth, she yanked on a pair of jeans and headed to the kitchen.

Nick didn’t lift his head as she entered, but he handed her a cup of coffee as she passed by.

You had time to go to the coffee shop? You really aren’t human.

Nope, I’m really not.

Jess knew that tone. It was deadpan, and it meant that something other than a lack of sleep was getting to him.

You okay, Nick?

He lifted his head, his glacial eyes catching her emerald pools. I feel... I don’t know what I feel. Something’s off; something’s wrong.

Jess furrowed her brow. Like you think something is wrong here with you, or is this something guardian related?

He sighed. I’m not sure I can tell the difference anymore. But I hope it’s just me.

Jess swigged back a long gulp of coffee. Maybe we should take a trip to Aurora? I honestly don’t think you’re happy. She reached across the table and squeezed his hand. Nick, if you don’t want to be here, don’t stay for me.

Nick studied her face, her beautiful, sun-kissed skin, and her sincere, deep, emerald eyes. She was serious, but was she freaking crazy? He couldn’t imagine not seeing her every day. She was the one comfort and solid constant in his life. He wouldn’t be giving that up anytime soon. He wouldn’t give her up.

Smiling softly, he turned his hand and laced their fingers together. I don’t want to be there, either, and you’re like my best friend now, Jess. I couldn’t image not dealing with your snarky ass every day.

She arched a brow at him. I am not even half as snarky as I used to be... I guess Aurora changed us both—me into a gentler, more reasonable Jess, and you into a man-whore.

Nick released her hand and puckered his lips into and adorable and pitiful pout. Your words cut deep, Jessica Hawthorne.

She grinned. Aww, Nicholi Stanton, I will make it up to you.

It’s gonna take a lot, he noted playfully. Pulling her from her seat and heading for the front door, he continued, Let’s put our freshman year of college behind us. Then we can discuss how you’ll make it up to me.

Sounds like a plan. She winked. Let’s get this over with.

***

Jess finished her Religions in America final before Nick. With an excited grin, she ducked out of the class and made a dash to the restroom, then hit a small coffee cart just outside of the history building.

Good morning, Jess.

Good morning, Clive. Jess greeted the barista with a genuine smile. Can I get a twenty-ounce black coffee and a sugar-free mocha? Oh, and two blueberry muffins.

Sure thing. Did you just finish up your freshman year?

Yep, now I’m just waiting on Nick to finish. Are you going to be at the beach tonight?

You bet. I can’t wait to close this cart down and call it summer for myself, too.

Taking the coffee and muffins, Jess thanked him and headed back towards the history building, settling against the wall outside the classroom door.

Little puppy waiting for the master who doesn’t want her?

Jess lifted her gaze to Angelina’s cruel smile. The girl was pretty—no doubt—but she was a snake, and that distorted the beautiful face she’d been blessed with.

Eh, what do you want?

I’m waiting for Nick. I’m thinking a romantic night is in order.

Jess nodded. Interesting... Does he know this? Because he already has plans.

He mentioned something about the two of you... but like I said, you’re replaceable and he doesn’t need to waste his time.

"You do realize that there is no reason to be such a dirty bitch to me, right? Nick and I have been through a lot, and we’re friends... emphasis on friends."

Angelina leaned in, getting way too close for Jess’s comfort. But I don’t like you, and soon you won’t be anything to him but a distant memory.

Jess narrowed her gaze, holding her tongue as the door beside them closed softly.

Don’t talk to her like that, Nick growled as he approached the two of them. That’s bullshit, Angie, and you know it. Come on, Jess, let’s go.

Jess handed over the muffin and coffee she’d gotten him and grabbed her bag.

Come on, Nick. She isn’t so sensitive and insecure that she needs your protection. I was just playing with her.

Well, you’re not funny and you don’t know shit about her or me. We’re done. Come on, Jess.

Jess followed silently as Nick’s long strides ate up the space between them and the glass front doors. Pushing open the door, Nick waited for Jess to come through before letting it go and finally slowing to her smaller gait.

So, thanks for the coffee and food. Turns out, you were right; she is a bitch. A hot bitch, but a bitch.

Jess shrugged. You deserve better than her.

He smiled. I know. Believe it or not, I know that. For such a long time, you thought I deserved Ava.

Jess chewed on her bottom lip. Well, not exactly. I thought she deserved you because she had such a massive crush on you and I wanted her to be happy... and she is now. I’m sorry you’re not.

"I’m not not happy, Jess. I think you and I are probably in the same boat. Are you happy?"

She smiled. Was she happy? Well, she wasn’t unhappy. I am right now, she said as she linked her arm through his. I’ve got my friend, it’s a beautiful day, and we just completed our freshman year. It’s me and you, Nikki. We got this.

He shook his head. You didn’t just call me ‘Nikki’.

I did, she smiled brightly up at him. Let’s go get ready for the bonfire.

***