The Keepers: Archer (7 page)

An instinct older than civilization yelled at Sienna to run, but her whole body started tingling the moment Archer’s mouth touched hers.

Instead, she gave in to the tender pressure of his lips, and tangled her fingers in his hair.

The kiss that followed was so intense and rocked her world in a way that unnerved her.

His clever hands were all over her, deliciously rough against her flawless skin, and her girlie tingling instantly turned into insatiable throbbing. Exotic little fires of need kindled inside her and she pressed herself into him, demanding more.

It had been a long time since she’d felt like this.

“I’d hoped things had changed,” she groaned between kisses.

He smiled against her lips. “Have they?”

She shook her head.

“Damn right they haven’t,” he said, nibbling her neck. His mouth moved across her cheekbone, along her chin. He dropped soft kisses across her jaw and into her neck, and she hung her head back to give him full access.

“I’ve never stopped wanting you, Sienna.”

His words, whispered against her ear, sent her imagination racing, and she smiled in anticipation. She hungered for more and clung to him as he took control of her body and overpowered her senses. His stomach pressed against her in a way that sent her libido roaring and brought an instant flush to her cheeks.

Raw primal need took over, destroying all rational thought, and with a swift motion, Archer hitched his palms against her lower back and hoisted her against him.

Her legs came up around him in reflex response and she sought out his mouth, needing the onslaught of delicious kisses only he could give her.

“God, you’re beautiful,” he whispered, plundering her mouth with his.

He kicked the door closed behind him and took three strides toward the kitchen counter. With a quick swipe of his arm, he sent the fruit bowel scattering across the floor, before placing her seated on the counter top.

His raw, masculine aura of power and strength was overwhelming.

“We shouldn’t be doing this,” Archer said softly between kisses, sliding his hands under the hem of her shirt to cup her hips and pull her closer.

“We really shouldn’t be doing this.”

He tipped his head back long enough to give her a slow, predatory smile before capturing her mouth with his again in a kiss so heated, so exciting, that she almost squealed with delight.

The man was built for speed, sex, and pleasure. The thought made her entire body burn, and she threw her head back with a soft sigh.

The sound of the kitchen door opening across the room sent a vague warning through her, but she ignored it.

“What the hell?”

Sienna’s eyes flew open and she pulled back to stare at Archer. He drew in a deep, aggravated breath and tilted his head toward the kitchen door. “Your timing sucks, brother.”

Sienna blinked, trying to catch her breath and find her senses. She felt like a whirlwind had ripped through her – a whirlwind of pure masculine heat and sexiness.

With a quick glance past Archer’s body, she saw Ethan walk further into the kitchen. Like his brother, he was tall and muscular, but had a lightness about him that Sienna had always loved. He wore his sandy brown hair in shorter spikes, the casual look suiting his carefree personality. Usually, his striking blue eyes were filled with laughter and kindness. Tonight, the Ethan that stood glaring at her was a far cry from the Ethan she knew. Fury had erased the laughter in his eyes, a deep frown creased his brow, and his mouth was set in a tight grimace of complete disapproval. There was nothing light about Ethan now.

Sienna closed her eyes with a soft groan and dropped her head against Archer’s chest, hoping that Ethan would simply turn around and leave.

But no.

“Archer,” Ethan said in a low tone, the single word signalling the start of a heated lecture.

Archer kept his back to his brother and remained positioned between her legs, quietly casting a quick scan across her body to ensure she was decent. With a frown, he straightened her shirt and exhaled. “Not now, Ethan.”

Ethan grabbed the discarded fruit bowel off the floor and gaped at his brother. “Seriously?”

“Not now, Ethan.”

“Archer.”

“Ethan,” Archer said quietly, his tone serving as a warning on its own, “leave. Now.”

With an unaccustomed scowl, Ethan picked up the various fruit strewn across the kitchen floor and threw them back into the fruit bowel. “You two miss the part about this sort of behaviour being forbidden between a Keeper and his witch? You’ll have The Circle spitting cobras.”

Ethan’s words brought reality crashing around Sienna’s feet with a thunderous roar.

The damn Circle.

A relationship between a Keeper and his witch was so strongly frowned upon that the witches had cast a spell, cursing any budding relationship. They had their uses, their rules and regulations were needed, but right now, Sienna resented the hell out of them. It was hard to think that a bunch of dead witches still ruled her life.

Sienna felt Archer withdraw, even though he hadn’t moved.

Thanks to Ethan’s stark reminder, the curse that kept her and Archer apart two years ago would continue to keep them apart.

“Ethan, this is none of your business,” Archer said, whirling around to face his brother.

“When it comes to Sienna, everything about her is my business.”

“Not this.”

Ethan took three strides and stood in front of his brother. “You’re her Keeper, Archer, and you don’t want to mess with a bunch of dead witches.” He jabbed a finger into Archer’s chest. “Besides, she’s no match for your physical strength. You could hurt her.”

“Ethan, stop it,” Sienna said softly.

Ethan whirled to face her. “If he doesn’t control himself, Sienna, he’ll hurt you.”

“Oh, please,” she scoffed. “Archer’s the poster boy for control. You really think he’s going to hurt me?”

Ethan’s expression eased. “Playing with fire equals getting burned. Not a good idea.”

“We’re not children, Ethan, so back off.”

Ethan glanced at them both and then nodded. “Fine. You two figure it out. But when the dead Aunty Hilda’s come seeking punishment, don’t come knocking on my door for help.” He walked to the liquor cabinet, pulled out two glasses, and poured Bourbon into both. He handed Archer a glass. “Drink up, brother. You look like you need one.”

Archer’s jaw flexed. “Get out of here, Ethan.”

Ethan tossed back the whiskey, refilled the glass, and headed for the door. “You guys need to figure this shit out before someone gets hurt,” he threw over his shoulder as he left.

Archer was frowning when he turned back to Sienna. “Are you okay?”

She nodded and slid off the counter, trying to keep herself from blushing at the thought of the hot, needy kiss they’d shared moments ago. Had Ethan not interrupted them, she would easily have forgotten the rules set by The Circle and given Archer free reign on her.

Wow.

Archer reached for her but she stopped him with a shake of the head. “Ethan’s right, Archer. The Circle will be spitting cobras if we take this further.”

“Sienna.”

They fell silent, the undeniable truth adding distance between them even though neither one of them had moved.

Anger flooded through her, and Sienna choked back a scream. There had once been a time when her destiny and Beckham heritage had felt like an honour, now felt like an annoying burden she simply couldn’t shake.

And right now, despite their best intentions, she hated The Circle with everything in her.

Inhaling softly, she lifted her chin in quiet determination, trying to calm the resentment inside. “It’s late. We should get some sleep. Tomorrow’s going to be a busy day.”

Archer lifted a brow. “You have plans?”

“Yes.” She pushed past him and moved toward the door. “I know it’s a long trip back to New York but I need to sort out a few things at my apartment and pack a few bags. I’m happy to make the trip alone but I’m assuming you’ll want to tag along.”

“I’ll come with you, Sienna.”

She nodded, never having doubted otherwise, and stopped at the doorway to frown at the shattered lamp on the floor. When had that happened?

Her breath caught as memories of Archer’s kiss clouded her mind, but she was quick to push them away. She looked back at Archer and blushed when she saw his lip curl into a slight grin. He would be able to sense her quick flush of excitement sparked by the memory of their kiss and judging by his grin, he found brief amusement in her reaction to the memory. “Stop it,” she said, jabbing a finger in Archer’s direction.

“Stop what?”

“I want my damn necklace.”

“But this is way more fun.”

“For you maybe. I’m going to bed.”

“You haven’t eaten yet.”

“I’m not hungry.”

“Lucky you.” A sexy gleam entered his eyes and a silly grin played on his lips. “Because unlike you, I am hungry, Sienna, but it’s not food I’m after.”

Sienna gaped at him for a second, spun around, and fled to her room.

The dream had Sienna bolting out of bed with a soft cry. Heart pounding and gasping choppy breaths of air, she whirled around in the darkness and blinked rapidly in an effort to calm the frenzy of emotions that threatened to overwhelm her.

Breathe. Breathe.

The night times were the worst, as she had no control over the memories that sparked the vicious nightmares.

Someone had once told her that time healed all wounds. Bull. Wide-awake and restless, Sienna pulled on a cardigan to ward off the cool night air, and silently made her way toward the kitchen. She doubted tea would do much to calm the fierceness that lurked inside, but it would give her something to do.

The spacious kitchen was in darkness and she left it that way, needing the blackness to smother her thoughts.

Sienna filled the kettle with water and turned it on. While waiting for it to boil, she strolled outside to the undercover patio that led onto the pool area. It was still dark but the garden lights illuminated the patio and the pool with a soft glow that comforted her. The patio consisted of a fireplace, several comfortable couches, a table with several chairs, and a breathtaking view of the estate’s back garden. It was homely, immaculate, and a popular gathering spot for the Bennett brothers. The bright blue light inside the pool added a cool inviting feel to the water.

Of all the brothers, Archer had always been the lover of water. Not surprising considering his connection with it.

She envied the natural connection her Keepers had to their elemental powers. When channelling their powers, they exerted such confidence and control, something totally foreign to her. Archer could do things with water and manipulate the droplets in a way that never failed to amaze her, Declan could wield fire with impressive ease, and Ethan handled the wind as though it were child’s play.

You’re a Beckham witch, Sienna, so start acting like one.

Archer’s words came to mind, stirring the emotions she’d avoided until now. Although he hadn’t elaborated, she’d known what he’d meant. She’d spent years watching her mother and grandmother in witch mode and she’d learned from an early age that Beckham witches were fighters. They were strong and they fought for what they believed in. They were kind, loving, respected, often feared, and lived their lives to maintain order. They weren’t afraid of their powers and embraced it as a gifts, using their magic to make the world a better, safer place.

An instant flush broke out through Sienna as shame trickled through her. She closed her eyes and allowed the truth to sink in.

She’d spent the last two years being everything a Beckham witch wasn’t.

Sienna opened her eyes and stared at the water for a long while before moving silently toward it. Maybe, just maybe, if she acted like a powerful, confident Beckham witch, she might actually start to feel like one. She was reaching but there had to be something better than the anguish and fear that had been her permanent sorrow buddies for the last few years.

A small whirlwind of energy began to quiver inside her, a gentle fluttering that symbolized hope. The awakening of her powers?

There was only one way to find out.

With careful ease, her heart pounding against her ribcage, Sienna quietly raised her arms toward the pool and gave way to the trance that usually took over when channelling her powers.

The water swirled inside the pool, slowly and softly at first. Once she’d gathered momentum, she raised her arms slightly. A low wall of water followed suit, hovering quietly above the pool before collapsing with a loud splash. Two attempts later, Sienna was ready to scream with annoyance.

I can do this, dammit!

Drawing in a deep breath, she pushed aside the frustration and tried again, this time, giving more of herself to the magic. The water swirled slowly at first but soon caught momentum and moments later, it was swirling faster and harder. With a gentle movement of her arms, the water rose up to form another wall that remained hovering in midair.

The ability to make the water do as she pleased was incredible, and a brief jolt of euphoria landed in her gut. When Harper had attacked her in the forest, she’d used two powers to subdue him. Air and fire. It had taken a few tries and she’d channelled both elements with difficulty, but with a control that had surprised her.

Curiosity and confidence spiked, Sienna concentrated on keeping the water mid air with one hand whilst stirring up a whirlwind in the forest beyond with the other hand. Moments later, she had a whirlwind of forest debris heading her way. The sight frightened her, only briefly, but bold instincts had taken over, driving Sienna to a depth she’d been too afraid to touch.

The whirlwind picked up speed as it approached, gathering fuel along the way. Once she had both elements of nature side by side, she twirled her arms in circular motions, her mind and body completely in tune with the elements. Both elements immediately began swirling in circular motions, faster and faster until Sienna herself was panting.

And feeling even bolder, Sienna slammed her hands together, creating a full-blown collision of water against wind. Water and forest debris exploded into an impressive scene around her, leaving her breathless.

Gasping for air, her shoulders heaving from the unleashed adrenaline, Sienna stared at the chaos she’d created. Water, stones, sticks, leaves, small plants, and even a tiny tree littered the pool area that had only moments ago been spotless. Now it looked as though a mini tornado had taken place while they’d all slept.

But the moment of the collision had been incredible, the realization that she had controlled both elements at once even more so.

Taking a few calming breaths, Sienna smiled at her accomplishment and went inside to make the tea. The brief exertion of power had been exhilarating but exhausting at the same time.

It was almost dawn and the sun would be up soon. As would the two Bennett brothers.

Ethan she could handle. As for Archer …

All thoughts of Archer vanished the moment Sienna realized she wasn’t alone.

Age-old instincts sparking a familiar warning, she spun around in time to see the silhouette of a man approaching her.

She screamed, the shrill sound shattering the silence of the night, and lashed out. Her hands met a thick wall of muscled chest, and strong arms came up around her. They stumbled across the counter, knocking over the wooden block of carving knives that crashed to the floor with a sickening clang. She cried out and launched herself toward the discarded weapons. There was a struggle, a fierce growl, and she fought with all the strength she had.

But her tiny body was no match for his size or strength. In a heartbeat, he had her pinned beneath him, her arms trapped above her head.

“Let me go!” she demanded, tugging one arm free. Her heart soared with hope as her fumbling fingers touched something sharp. With a fierce cry, she drove the knife deep into her attacker’s back, and shoved against him.

There was a flash of movement in the darkness followed by a fierce, low growl as her attacker was hoisted off her and sent flying across the room. He crashed into the wooden drawers against the wall, shattering a lamp, and fell to the floor with a loud curse.

Gasping, Sienna looked up at the silhouette of a second man towering in the darkness above her.

Archer.

He growled, his eyes pinned on the intruder, and readied himself for the fight to follow. “What the hell are you doing here?” he asked between gritted teeth.

“I live here, dammit.”

Archer stepped forward, his breathing rapid, his fists clenched beside each thigh. Sienna heard him exhale as the tension subsided. “Declan?”

The tall figure at the back of the room struggled to his feet. “Hell, brother, your hospitality sucks.”

Light flooded the room and Sienna blinked, trying to adjust to the harsh light, to the two Bennett brothers staring at each other in stunned silence.

Archer moved first. He was barefoot and had tugged on a pair of jeans. He held out a hand to Sienna and pulled her to her feet. “Are you hurt?”

She shook her head and turned to Declan, the middle Bennett brother. “Declan?”

Declan.

Another Bennett brother that stirred an ocean of memories and conflicting emotions. Longer dishevelled jet-black hair, expressive blue eyes and a bad boy image he’d never shed. He wore black jeans, an olive green t-shirt, and a black leather jacket, a firm favourite of his.

With a grimace, Declan Bennett stepped forward, his hands clawing at his back in a desperate attempt to remove the knife.

“Oh, my, God. You’re hurt,” Sienna said, rushing to him.

“You stabbed me with a damn knife,” he growled, dropping to his knees with a guttural groan.

“You attacked me.”

“Like hell. You attacked me.”

Sienna dropped to her knees and reached for the knife. “You scared the life out of me.” With a small cry, she tugged the invasive weapon out of his back. She grimaced as his flesh released the knife with a sickly sucking sound, oozing blood everywhere. Declan scowled at her as he shrugged off his jacket.

Archer appeared beside her with a towel, and Sienna quickly pressed it against the wound.

“I’m so sorry,” she said, her free hand flying to her mouth. “Dammit, Declan, I could’ve killed you.”

“You stabbed me,” Declan repeated, staring at her.

“That’ll teach you to creep up behind me in the darkness,” she said. Despite trying to make her tone sound light, her voice still shook. She pulled the towel away and breathed a sigh of relief. The bleeding had stopped. “It’s healing.”

“Still doesn’t take away the pain.”

“Don’t be such a girl.”

Declan winced and held out his hand to his brother. “Help me up, brother. I need a bloody drink.”

Archer pulled him to his feet. “What are you doing here?”

Sienna looked up at Archer and lifted a brow, caught off guard at the anger she heard in his voice.

“Don’t be so hostile,” Declan said and tugged off his t-shirt. He turned to toss the t-shirt onto the counter and Sienna caught a glimpse of the striking black tattoo spread across his shoulder blades. It was the image of a pentagram, creatively crafted, designed with care. The mark of a Keeper.

Her Keeper.

Pushing herself to her feet, Sienna retrieved a fresh towel from the kitchen drawer, wet it, and held it out to Declan. “Clean up, Bennett, you look all bloody and gross.” Not that it did anything to hide the hard wad of muscles he’d unveiled when he’d tossed his t-shirt.

Declan cocked a brow. “Not surprising considering you stabbed me.”

“You’re damn lucky the surprise attack left me without time to use some witchy joo joo on you. What were you thinking sneaking up on an unstable witch in the dark?”

A sly smile spread across Declan’s face, and Sienna had the urge to shove him. Had if not been for the knife she’d found, she could’ve caused a lot more damage if she’d used her powers.

“I wasn’t sneaking. I live here.”

“You haven’t lived here for two years. You came back.” A rush of relief flooded her, surprising her, and she realized how much she’d missed him. Over the years, she’d formed a separate bond and a unique relationship with each of her Keepers. With Declan, their shared understanding of the weight of responsibility they both carried in being a powerful witch and a dedicated Keeper had sealed their bond, different to her relationship with the other two brothers. Sometimes their world rocked, other times it didn’t. Declan got both. His dark, mischievous, troublemaker, bad boy attitude annoyed Archer who was the complete opposite in nature, but for Sienna, Declan had always added some colour to her journey as a Beckham witch.

“Declan,” Archer said softly, breaking the silence. “Why’ve you come back?”

Declan tilted his head to look at Sienna. “Duty calls, so I’m here.”

“After two years, you’ve decided to honour your duty as a Keeper?”

“Can’t be a Keeper if there’s no witch to keep. Sienna’s back so I’m back.”

“We don’t need any more trouble, Declan.”

Declan’s smile was slow and full of mischief. “Where’s the fun in that then, brother?”

“You haven’t changed, have you?”

“Oh, I’ve changed, Archer,” Declan replied in a low tone that held more weight behind the words than anticipated. He opened the liquor cabinet and hauled out a bottle and a glass. He poured himself a drink, swallowed it, and poured another. “Two years of therapy, loads of women, and an endless supply of bourbon. I’m a transformed man.”

“You’re full of crap.”

Declan laughed. “Okay, no therapy, but I wasn’t lying about the bourbon.”

“Can you be serious for a minute?”

“Or the women.”

“Declan.”

“What, brother? Just because you’re all broody and serious all the time doesn’t mean I should follow suit.” Declan motioned to Archer’s harsh frown. “I happen to like a wrinkle free forehead.”

Archer waved a hand across the room. “Someone has to keep all this together.”

“Which is why I left.”

“You didn’t leave, Declan. You ran.”

“You were relieved when I left, Archer.” Declan’s tone was clipped with a brief hint of anger that quickly disappeared when he smiled. “But you should ease up on the frowning, brother. It’s a very crowded forehead you have there.”

Archer’s jaw worked and he stepped forward, staring at his brother with such anger that it came off him in waves. “We couldn’t all have the luxury of stuffing the pain of what happened to Sarah in a box and running off to God knows where to drown our sorrows in women and alcohol. You screwed up, Declan, and you left us to clean up your mess. I’ve earned the crowded forehead.”

Declan reeled back as though Archer had struck him. Silence reigned, thick and prickly, and both brothers stared at each other.

Without breaking eye contact, Declan lifted the glass and mock toasted his brother. “Didn’t take long for the elephant in the room to let out a mighty roar.”

Despite their anger and tension between the two brothers, Sienna’s heart sank. Sarah. It all came back to Sarah. Would any of them ever be able to get over her death? The horror of losing Sarah Bennett had struck them all in different ways, yet with the same result.