The Wizards of Venus Book One: Magic Touch Read Free

It’s an honor to have him select you." Colin joined her at the window.
    There was a knock on his office door. Grace watched as Rand and his father entered the room. Even as angry as she was with him, she couldn’t deny he’d matured and grown into the promise of manhood she’d seen at his Gathering. His dark hair was longer but his frame had filled out. He was the spitting image of his father and side by side it was more than obvious.
    When he smiled at her she glared at him.
    "You look wonderful this morning, Gracie." Rand joined her when she returned to the loveseat. "And very pissed off," he added for her ears alone.
    "I think I have every reason to be." She made no effort to keep her voice down.
    "Colin, you have the scrolls ready?" King Mica sat down in the large chair across from Colin's desk.
    "Yes, I do. They’re just waiting for your blessing and your signatures.” Picking up the fragile scrolls, Colin handed them to his king.
    17
     
    "May I say something?" As the closeness of her chosen began to wear on her nerves, Gracie stood up and approached Mica. His look of surprise didn’t faze her. They probably assumed I would fall at their feet with gratitude.
    "What is it, Gracie?" His affection showed clearly in his eyes.
    "I don't think I’m the best person to rule at your son's side. I fear my mixed blood will be hard for the people of Venus to accept." Behind her, she heard Rand’s curse. She chose to ignore it as she continued. "My Earthling blood has to be taken into consideration. I can't change the fact my mother is from Earth, nor would I want to. I just don't think the majority of Venusians are ready to accept me on the throne."
    "Colin and I have discussed this issue already, Gracie. We wouldn’t approve of your match if we hadn’t looked at every aspect and angle of your joining. In the end the most important truth is you are the perfect match for my son."
    "And who decided that? You? My dad? Did you even think to include your son or I in this decision?" She began to pace as her temper frayed even further.
    "In essence, it was your father and I who made the decision. Then we both informed Rand."
    "Were there other candidates as 'qualified' as I am?"
    Mica seemed to hesitate before answering. "Yes."
    "Did you tell Rand about them also?"
    * * * *
     
    "Enough Gracie.” Rand surged to his feet. “I knew my choices and I chose you. Don’t take your anger out on your dad or mine. Place the blame where it belongs, on me."
    18

    "Is there any chance you’re going to change your mind?" While her voice was deceptively calm, Rand knew he was treading on dangerous ground but no longer cared. She’s mine and I’m tired of waiting.
    "No. You’re my chosen!"
    “We’ll see about that.” Pushing past him, she bolted out of the room.
    Rand turned his attention back to his father as the door slammed shut behind her.
    "She's the one you want?" Mica opened the scrolls and waited for his son’s answer.
    "The only one. She's my chosen."
    King Mica nodded his understanding and there was a brief flaring of magic which filled the room with light. The betrothal was complete. Rolling the scrolls up, he handed them back to Colin.
    "It is done. Will make sure they are returned to the holy vault, Colin?"
    "Of course, Mica.” When the two royals turned to leave, Colin spoke again. “Rand, a moment of your time please?"
    “Is there some other paperwork we need to complete?” Rand stopped and returned to face Colin.
    "My daughter may be your chosen and there is no doubt she’s the best match for you.”
    “But?”
    “Never forget she’s wasn’t asked or even consulted about this. It has roused her Irish temper. Give her time to accept it.”
    19

    “I understand your concern, Colin, but time is all I’ve ever given her. I’ve waited over ten years and I’ll wait no longer. In less than six weeks, she’ll be my wife, temper or not.” He left the study and vowed to find his wayward bride and set a few