The Lightning-Struck Heart (Tales From Verania, #1)

by T.J. Klune

And all powers of speech fled as if I’d never had them at all. To Mervin: Don’t worry. I’m a Sam Girl too. Our secret? Ryan Foxheart

“Anyway,” I said loudly. “Are we good? Did the Priest give us enough hoodoo so we can get the fu—fudge out? Sorry, Father.” “It’s okay,” the priest assured me. “I’m pretty sure your soul is already doomed.”

“And I was fourteen! I was still discovering my hidden talents.” “Some talents should remain hidden,” the King said wisely.

“What?” I asked. “You think he’s mad we’re going to miss the wedding? I’ll be honest, I’m pretty sure I don’t want to be there. Even though I should be.” “Yes,” Gary said. “That’s exactly why he’s pissed. Good job.” “Whatever,” I groused. “I don’t even care.” “Obviously. The level with which you do not care is astounding. It almost eclipses your awareness.”

he often had trouble with the little things, like directions and staying on point. It wasn’t his fault, not completely. His brain worked a little differently and it was easier for him to become sidetracked. His mother said it was a quirk. His father said it was a talent. Morgan said it was an issue to be worked through.

“What? No! I don’t want to be destroyed and sticky and have my feet sucked on.” His nose wrinkled up. “You… what?” “That’s what happens at orgies,” I explained, because it didn’t sound like he knew. I felt overwhelmingly relieved at that. “You don’t know where to put your feet, so they go into Oyev’s mouth.” “Are you drunk again?” he asked.

And his eyes never left mine. This boy I’d known as Nox. This man I knew as Ryan.

I am the Beast from the East. I am…” “Ohmygods ohmygods ohmygods,” I muttered half-hysterically. “…Kevin,” the dragon finished triumphantly. “OHMYGODS OHMYGODS OHMY—wait. What?” “Kevin,” the dragon repeated. “Your name is Kevin.”

“I promise, because when I look upon these stars, there is nothing I wish for more than you.”

Hindsight can be a wonderful gift, Sam. Or a terrible curse.”

“They just tried to pimp me out,” I said, sounding completely awed. “Why does that always happen in this room?” “Remember,” Randall murmured from behind me, “I get ninety percent of all your take. Don’t make me slap you. You Randall’s girl, now.” “Oh my gods,” I moaned. “Please let this be a nightmare.”