Weddings are terrible when you want to get married and you don't.

Oh please, be over faster. Grace needed an assignment. Action, adventure, time away from flowers, table arrangements and pale colors. She'd loved helping Faith plan her wedding. Heck, she'd even gotten a ton of ideas for her own, but it had been a week since she last held a weapon. And to top it all off, she hated her outfit. Her dress looked like someone had puked lemonade on it and the white flats were just terrible. She eyed the closet door. Her red platform heels were in there.

A knock on the door startled her out of trying to decide whether to change her shoes or not. Faith was still in the bathroom, doing Heaven knew what. Grace shrugged and opened the door.

Nate stood on the other side wearing a long, white robe. Being one of the oldest, most important Angels, he'd offered to officiate the ceremony. Faith had almost fainted with delight when he'd mentioned it. Grace hated the robe. It made him look serious and unapproachable.

He tilted his head. "What?"

"I hate the robe." Okay, she should've maybe said it with a little more tact, but she was on the edge already. Faith's wedding jitters had been flying through the apartment for the past two days.

Nate quirked a brow. "I'm not a big fan of it either. It's very hot inside."

She smiled, grateful that he didn't go into lecture mode. To be honest, he hadn't done that in weeks. Their middle ground was solid and steady.

Nate pulled the robe over his head to reveal a white suit and light-blue tie. "Better." He tossed it over his shoulder. "I feel formal and stuffy in it." He leaned toward her, a crooked smile on his lips. He smelled so good.

Grace batted her eyelashes and lowered her chin. "You look much better without it."

"Love your dress." He pulled her out of the apartment, into the hallway. The door closed behind her. "I'm glad you didn't pick a long one."

"Faith actually picked it out." Including the albino lemon color. At her wedding, Faith was wearing molting-hamster-with-terminal-disease-tan.

"Faith has good taste, then." His lips covered hers. For a moment, it was nothing but a sweet kiss. Then, Nate's arms wrapped tightly around her. Grace's skin tingled as he pressed her against the wall, his mouth firmly on hers. And she loved it, wanted so much more. Her body was in limbo, begging to jump to the next step. Her imagination took the kiss much further. An itching sensation spread across her shoulder blades.

"Ah, shit!" She pushed Nate away. More itching accompanied her remark. Her dress was open-back. Everyone would see her rash.

"What happened?" Nate looked half-worried, half-amused.

"How bad is it?" She turned around.

"Oh, honey, that's what you get for cursing."

"It didn't happen from cursing. Not most of it, at least. How bad?"

Nate chuckled. "What did you do then?"

She turned and scowled at him. "What do you think? How do I make it go away?"

Nate laughed. She slapped his shoulder. He wasn't helping at all.

"Try thinking things that make the first thoughts right."

Grace squinted, then closed her eyes. Make it right. Hmmm... I will marry Nate and, even if I want a lot more from him, I will be good and wait patiently. Unexpectedly, it worked. The itch subsided. Oh, and I'm sorry I cursed. I'll try to control myself next time.

"That's an obvious improvement." Nate let out a low whistle. "You've grown so much, Grace. I'm very proud of you."

Her cheeks burned with pleasure.

"Grace?" Faith called from inside the apartment.

"Well, Faith's up and about." Grace stepped through the door to find Faith running around the living room. "Um, what are you looking for?"

"My shoes! I can't find them anywhere. And you have to lace up my corset."

"Relax, Bridezilla. The shoes are in their box under your bed, and I'll take care of your dress." She grabbed the laces and wanted to pull, but Faith darted to the bedroom, pulling Grace after her. "Hold still, will you?"

"It's not going to fit! I got fat!" Faith wailed.

"Angels don't get fat." Grace tugged harder and everything fell into place. Faith hadn't even eaten anything in over three days. Even if they didn't need to eat in order to survive, most Angels, Faith included, had made a habit of it, mostly to treat their senses. Grace tied the laces into an elaborate ribbon and pulled back to admire Faith in her ballroom chiffon gown. "You look beautiful."

"Really?" Faith scurried to the mirror and checked her minimal makeup. She patted her elegant bun and gave herself a dazzling smile. "It looks good." She turned, bobbing up and down on her tiptoes. "I can't believe I'm getting married today. Oh, girlfriend." She rushed to Grace and gave her a tight hug. "I'm going to miss sharing the place with you, telling you everything. You were like a sister to me."

"I still am like a sister to you. Except you're the married sister now, and you'll have two families. Azriel and me." Grace detached from her and smoothed her short puked-lemonade dress. "You're going to have the time of your life and then the happiest marriage in the world. Now, put your shoes on."

Faith grinned widely as she slipped her small feet into the silver high heels. She looked like Cinderella getting ready for the ball. Grace wanted to mention it, but wasn't sure Faith would get the human reference, so she walked to the closet and changed her shoes.

"Are you ladies ready?" Nate poked his head through the bedroom door, once again wearing his robe.

"Of course!" Faith bustled past Grace, hardly getting her big dress through the door, into the living room. "Hi, Nathaniel. Thanks so much for doing this." She gave him a quick smile. "Let's go!" She dashed past them, ran out the door and down the hall.

"Fay, wait." Grace grabbed their bouquets and hurried to follow. Faith ran as fast as her high heels allowed. Nate hovered in the middle of the hallway.

Grace broke into a trot toward him. He took her hand and they jogged after the runaway bride.

"You couldn't help yourself with the shoes, could you?" He grinned.

"I love these shoes. And all eyes will be on Faith so I might just get away with it."

"Always the little rogue." Nate squeezed her hand tighter, but his tone remained casual. "I'll tell you a secret. I love those shoes on you, too. You get a certain glow when you wear them."

Grace tried to keep the grin in, especially since it was Faith's big day, but she loved Nate more with every uncharacteristic thing he said or did.

They caught up with Faith at the exit of the Sleeping Quarters. She clutched the jamb and stared at the red carpet at her feet. Nate moved past her to take his place.

"I can't believe it." She raised teary eyes at Grace. "It's actually happening."

"And it's only the beginning of a very happy life for you. So suck it up, hun', and walk down that aisle." Grace crouched and picked up the train of the dress.

Faith nodded. "Here we go." And she stepped on the carpet.

⚔⚔⚔

Grace sipped her fruity, alcohol-free cocktail, watching the dangling flower garlands. Faith's decoration ideas had proven wonderful and Grace's few suggestions gave originality and color to the party. The small crowd of attending Angels ooh-ed and aaah-ed from time to time, impressed with the elegance of the event.

Faith and Azriel sat at their table, feeding each other cake. Nate talked to a few other Angels, sharing some sort of story. Grace surveyed him, pleased by how he led every conversation, how his opinion influenced others and balanced the subject. He was an alpha male, no doubt about it. She turned away from him before she got a rash from more naughty thoughts.

"Hi, Grace." Luce came up next to her, holding a bluish umbrella drink.

"Hey, Luce. Having a good time?" Grace took another sip. She wondered what Luce's drink tasted like.

"Yeah, everything is so lovely and romantic." Luce picked up a cracker and chewed on it dreamily. "The Halo suits Faith."

"Yeah, true." Like all married Angels, Faith received her Halo and the golden circle looked as if it belonged there.

Luce bit her lip, as though building the courage to say something. "Love your shoes. A bold move."

"I know, I know." Grace rolled her eyes and downed the rest of her drink. "I hoped people wouldn't notice, but then I realized I'm actually carrying Faith's train so I was right there in everyone's face." She should've thought that through more. Many Angels had scrunched their noses and looked away from her. "Anyway, I've always thought our outfits could use a little color."

Luce smiled, though it didn't reach her eyes. Grace was grateful her nose stayed smooth.

Luce leaned closer. "You know, it's considered bad manners to wear white to a human wedding. The bride should be unmistakable in the midst of all the people."

"Really?" Grace tilted her head. She had no idea Luce knew so much about humans.

"Yup." She threw a glance over her shoulder at the talking men. "What's the deal with you and Nathaniel? He's been drinking you up the entire wedding."

Heat rose to Grace's face. "Oh, we're sort of dating."

Luce gave an impressed nod. "What do you know? I never thought I'd see Nathaniel with a mate again."

"Again? What do you mean, again?" Grace tried to keep her voice mildly curious. Faith had assured her Nate never had anyone before her. Then again, Faith wasn't much older than her and wouldn't know. Luce on the other hand... how old was she? And, as much as she'd tried to ignore it, Nate kinda mentioned it himself. Damn!

"Eh, it was such a long time ago." Luce waved her hand as if shooing away a fly. "Over a millennium." She looked around, stirring her drink with the straw. "So, who's your new roommate?"

"New roommate?" Was Luce shitting her, changing the subject like that?

"Yes, since Faith is moving out."

"I know, but tell me more about Nate's ex-mate."

Luce shrugged. "I don't really remember all that well. I was a newbie like you. I've mostly heard talk about it." She kicked at a pebble, obviously sorry for bringing it up.

Grace sighed. She'd talk to Nate about it. Luce was right. A millennium was a long time. It didn't matter that he once had someone. Ah, crap, it did kinda matter. No, stop it! Control. She didn't need red spots on her back.

She glanced at Luce for a distraction and froze. Luce stirred her drink obsessively while staring at her feet. What the heck was wrong with her? "Um, Luce, are you okay?"

Luce jumped. "Oh, yes, it's just that-"

Grace narrowed her eyes. "Spit it out."

"Look, maybe I shouldn't be telling you this. It's stupid anyway."

"You've already started, so you might as well go on." Grace fought the impulse to yell at her to quit blubbering and come out with it already.

Luce downed her drink. "I went out to Purgatory last night. You know, the club-"

"Yes, I know what Purgatory is, get on with it."

"I ran into Blackwing in the foyer."

Why was she not surprised? Grace kept her face straight, but inside, two dinosaurs were playing tennis with her heart. "And?"

"He asked how you were. Said he missed playing with you. His emphasis."

Totally unwanted mental image.

Luce bit her lip. "He also told me to tell you that you have a conversation pending and it would be good to finish it while Nathaniel is away."

"Nate's not away. Blackwing's an idiot." And so was she for giving such a stupid answer. Crap! He was still stalking her. Good thing she hadn't left the Garden alone since her last encounter with him.

"I just passed the message on." Luce shrugged. "Stay away from him if you know what's good for you."

No shit, Sherlock!

Luce narrowed her eyes as if she could read Grace's mind. "I mean it, Grace. He can get your mind all twisted and it's not worth it."

"What do you mean get my mind twisted?" Was this confirmation that Blackwing had manipulated her into feeling...into thinking she actually felt something?

Luce opened her mouth as if she wanted to answer, but changed her mind. Felicity called her from behind. "Just stay away from him before you get hurt." She waved and walked away.

Grace groaned and grabbed another drink from a passing tray. She closed her eyes, took deep calming breaths, and managed to relax. Wow, I'm getting really good at this control thing. She needed more training if she ever wanted to feel safe again. She wasn't stupid enough to believe Blackwing only wanted to talk.

"Hey."

Grace jumped and turned to Nate who had come up behind her. He leaned over and kissed her on the cheek.

"Faith and Azriel are about to leave on their honeymoon," he whispered in her ear. "We could ditch the party after they're gone."

Wow, that sounded almost naughty coming from him. She grinned. "What exactly are you implying, Mr. Blanc?"

"Thinking naughty thoughts, Miss Phair? Would you like your pretty skin ruined again?" He hid his face in her hair and nibbled on her earlobe.

It felt like fireworks exploded under her skin. Grace clutched his shoulders as her knees buckled a little. She had no idea what had gotten into him, but she loved it. "You're ruining my skin." At the word 'ruin', cold slithered over her. "Nate- I mean, Nathaniel. Is it true that you had someone else before me?"

He let her go and took a step back, his playful expression turned to stone. "Who told you that?"

"Luce mentioned it in passing." She rubbed one shoe on the back of her leg. Why did she feel guilty about this? It was just a question.

Nate's mouth turned into a grim line. "I did have someone, but it was a very long time ago. And it didn't end well, so I'd rather not talk about it."

Angel relationships always ended well. "Did she die?" The words were out before she could stop them.

Nate shut his eyes. A muscle in his jaw twitched. "Do you know what happens to Angels when they die?"

They just die. But she couldn't say that to him. He looked too hurt.

"There is nothing there for them. Humans are the only ones who get an afterlife. We don't have second chances or the hope to ever see a fallen comrade again. It's just... nothing."

Grace bit her lip. She'd never seen it like that. Her heart broke for him and she wished she hadn't asked the silly question. Faith's chirpy voice brought her back to the present.

"Gather round. Grace, don't miss this." She gave a very obvious wink, turned around and tossed the bouquet. It landed straight in Grace's hands, even if she made no move to catch it. Everyone broke into applause and Faith skipped to her and gave her a tight hug. "Don't get married without me. I'll see you in a couple of weeks. Have fun." She kissed Grace on both cheeks and moved to kiss others.

Azriel came up to Grace. "Thanks for all the help with the wedding...sister." He smiled awkwardly and kissed her on the cheek. He then clasped Nate's shoulder. "Take care of her."

Nate smirked. "Of course I will."

In less than ten minutes, Faith and Azriel were out the Gate and on their honeymoon. The rest of the party goers continued to eat, drink and socialize. Grace pulled away, her arms wrapped around herself. She couldn't believe Faith had gotten married. An unexpected sense of longing overwhelmed her. She actually did want to marry Nate. At least, this Nate, not the preachy one.

"Should we go?" Nate asked.

"Yeah, let's."

The two of them made their way across the meadow where the wedding was still in full swing, and to the Sleeping Quarters, nodding to acquaintances, waving here and there. Grace suddenly felt like a princess leaving a party. But Faith had been the princess. A hole opened up inside her. She'd miss her best friend so much. She'd been there ever since Grace could remember.

"Why are you so down?" Nate asked, stopping.

Grace stopped too, and only then realized that they'd already reached her room. "I'm just going to miss Faith, that's all." She looked up at him. "Will you come in?"

"Sorry, honey, can't do. Your roommate is moving in tonight, and I don't want her to get the wrong impression."

Grace groaned. She already didn't like this new roommate. "I hoped we'd get one more night together before she showed up."

Nate tensed, but smiled. "That's one rule I won't be breaking again." He leaned over, his lips an inch from her ear. "Though I really enjoyed you sleeping in my arms."

Goosebumps flooded Grace's skin and she did her best not to shiver. "Yes, so I've heard."

"Besides, I don't think it will be long before you'll get sick of me." He rubbed her left ring finger.

Grace pulled back and gawked at him. Was he serious? The twinkle in his eyes and the honest smile said yes. She fought the impulse to scream and bounce around, clapping her hands like a little girl.

"Oh, another thing." Nate clasped his hands behind his back and rocked back and forth on the soles of his shoes.

She almost giggled at his childish stance. She'd never seen him doing something like this. It was amazing how much he'd changed toward her. This was the real Nate - the one she wanted to marry and live happily ever after with.

"I think you need a break after all this wedding planning, so take a week off. Make friends with your roommate, contemplate the future... watch your movies." He smirked as he said the last part.

Grace opened her mouth, ready to protest, but he raised his hand to stop her.

"I have some investigating to do regarding a certain problem. I'll be away for a few days."

"But Nate, I could-" A fire siren started screaming inside her head.

"I can't take you with me. Not where I'm going." He caressed her cheek. "I'm sorry, honey."

"It's because of the heightened Demonic activity again, isn't it?"

"Yes. I have to get to the bottom of it. You were right. There shouldn't be this much activity. I've been following the human news and there are plenty of wars all around the world. Nothing's changed in the human world for months." He brushed his lips against hers.

"I hate it when you leave me behind. I could help you," she mumbled, turning her face away. Take me with you, damn it!

"Oh, Grace." Nate ran his hand through his hair. "Why don't you give yourself the time, the chance to grow? Stop trying to do everything - to run before you even know how to walk."

A wave of shame washed over her, though half of her was still irritated. Deep breath. I can control my anger. She closed her eyes and imagined waves hitting the shore. She'd train with Luce, get even better. Her heart jolted. Oh shit!

"Better." Nate smiled and raised her hand. The rash her anger had produced was barely distinguishable. "But you still have to work on it." He gave her a quick kiss and left down the hallway, toward the male wing.

Grace watched him until he rounded the corner, her knees shaky. She wanted to scream after him, but no words came out of her mouth. Blackwing knew Nate would be leaving. But did this mean that Nate was safe and she was not or the other way around?

⚔⚔⚔

She had a sword. Finally, after years of waiting, she had a sword. And swinging it gave her a sense of power and freedom she'd never felt before. There was no fear, no worry. Nothing could go wrong. The darkness didn't matter, neither did the hordes of Demons surrounding her. Mad laughter broke through the night, encasing her. The hordes of Demons dissolved into nothingness and she was alone. Except she knew she wasn't. Someone was laughing, someone who could see her.

A slither of fear crept down her back, making the hairs on her arms stand. She clutched the hilt of the sword tighter. It burned her fingers. She couldn't let it go. She would be defenseless without it. The burn heightened and it soon felt like her hands were on fire. When she looked down, they were. She yelped and dropped the sword. Blisters swelled and popped on her hands, filling the raw skin with hot liquid. She stepped back, tears streaming down her face. They scalded, too.

The laughter intensified, the pitch changing, making her eardrums heat up. She pressed her hands over her ears, but only burned her face. Orange flames rose around her, dancing closer and closer.

She screamed, waving her hands, trying to beat away the fire. It only came closer, devouring her body. Her skin melted like wax and dripped down her skull. Her eyes popped out of her head. She tried to brush the flames off, but she ended up scooping parts of herself, tearing chunks of flesh off her bones. A tormented yell burned her lungs.

With a shriek, she jolted awake. Darkness surrounded her, and for a moment she expected to see orange flames coming toward her. Instead of heat, cold sweat trickled down her back.

"Little baby had a nightmare?" a snappy female voice asked.