In Darkness Waits Desire: A Grumpy Sunshine Paranormal Romance (Nocturnal Hearts)

**Special Edition Alternate Hardcover**<br/><br/>Determined, gentle, and running from unspoken terrors of her past. Belle yearns for the freedom to be her own person, released from her life of enslavement and servitude.<br/>One night will change everything, leaving her questioning what is real.<br/>When she is hunted and nearly killed, Belle is thrust into a world she never knew existed. Alternate realms, supernatural beings, and a discovery of her unique powers… as a witch.<br/>A witch with magic the likes of which hasn’t been seen for centuries.<br/>As she learns to navigate this new life and unravel the questions from her past, she becomes tempted by the mystery of the fierce Guardian watching from the shadows.<br/>Her protector.<br/>The one keeping himself at a distance from everyone. Especially her.<br/>Despite his cold exterior and stern glare that follows Belle into her dreams, she starts to feel something crack open the barriers she has long placed around her heart.<br/>But when the secrets they both hold are brought to light the truth could destroy them all.<br/><br/>***<br/>Aloof, reserved, and disciplined. Lachlan of Nocturne lives out his binding duty as Guardian of the Soterian Realm.<br/>Beneath his brooding mask lies a dark secret. His plan for vengeance has been his sole focus for two hundred years… until he meets her.<br/>A witch with the rarest of abilities, evil chasing her, and a fated destiny connecting them.<br/>Trouble is, he has sworn to carry out his plan no matter what. To keep his dark secrets hidden away to himself. Making amends for nightmares of the past.<br/>He’ll ensure the necessary arrangements are in place to protect her. But having a fated mate?<br/>That’s a weakness.<br/>The kind he cannot afford to indulge.<br/>But day by day, his every fantasy that he daren’t dream could become reality–a fierce beauty wrapped in a silk dress–breaks down his walls. Now he’ll have to admit the truth he’s denied for too long.<br/>She’s his.<br/>Even if it will cost him everything.<br/>Author's Note: This is a standalone novel - interconnected with the other books and characters in the Nocturnal Hearts series. HEA guaranteed. Please check the author's website for all tropes, tags, and CWs.