Fated

Chapter 37

“Janie, are you there?” Zane wound through the dream world with a sigh of frustration; this was her universe and he was only a guest. Where the heck was she?

“Hi, Zane.” She popped out from behind a swaying tree with pink leaves scattering around her.

“Nice tree,” he said with an appreciative smile. The oddest scent of powdered brownies clung to the branches.

“Thanks.” Her responding smile was slower than usual. And tinged with sadness.

“It’s all right, Janie Belle.” He stepped forward to place a brotherly arm around her tiny shoulders. “The king is one of the fiercest warriors ever born; he’ll find your Aunt Emma.” Zane hugged his best friend closer. “And besides, we’re gearing up to assist if necessary. The Kurjans don’t stand a chance.”

“I know.” Janie hugged him back. “But I can’t see it. I can’t get a sense of Auntie Emma.” Pixielike features turned to him in concern.

Zane shrugged. “Maybe you’re not supposed to see everything, Belle.”

“Well.” For a four-year-old, the feminine pique was pronounced and brought a smile to Zane’s full lips. He changed the subject. “How’s your mother?”

Janie’s smile came more easily this time. “She’s good. Ready to be with Aunt Emma again.” Janie could already see her baby brother in her head—his magnificent power would only be balanced by his incredible heart. She wished he’d hurry up and be born.

“That’s good, Belle. Make sure she rests up, our fight has just started.”

Janie nodded. She didn’t correct him, but in truth, the fight hadn’t even begun. Once it did, the world they all knew would change. And even with her powers, she couldn’t see the ending—she couldn’t see the world that would emerge from the rubble. Determination mixed with faith in her soul as she looked at the young warrior before her. Together they would make it right.

She hoped.