Free KeystoHeavenAll by Owner

Chapter One
    “Mom. I’m going to do a garbage run!” Heavenleigh glanced over her shoulder. The red streaks in her mom’s black hair swayed a she nodded. Knowing she heard, Heaven took the two bags in her hand and walked to the back door. A rush of cool air felt good against her heated skin as she stepped out into the night. The bar was booming tonight. She smiled. Purgatory had been smash hit from the moment it opened, much to everyone’s surprise, hers included. When her mother pitched the concept of a neutral bar for angels, demons, and whatever else supernatural wandered in looking for a good time, Heavenleigh thought she’d lost it. Still, as always she supported the women who’d given up everything for her.
    As a being with one foot in hell, and one foot in heaven she wasn’t well liked. Her mother had fallen to earth, leaving her grace behind to pursue a romance with a demon she claimed was ill fated from the start. Her mother never went into details and the look of pure torment that rose in her eyes whenever she spoke of her father kept her from asking for more details. Besides, the asshole had bailed on them, and at sixty, though she looked about thirty by human standards, the last thing she needed was a wanna-be-daddy trying to tell her what to do. Pushing the bitter thoughts away she tossed the lumpy black sacks in the dumpster.
    Her stomach lurched like she was on a Tilt-O-Whirl and her ears twitched. Turning to face the dimly light area behind her, she raised her hands. Blue power crackled around illuminating the space between her and the parking lot. She waited, her eyes scanning the blackness as she kept her muscles loose and ready to fight. Something wicked this way comes. A shadow peeled itself from the wall and began to take a human shape. Demon. Scarlet eyes stood out against the creatures pale skin, and blue-black hair that fell across his forehead in an angular cut. Wow even demons were doing the Emo thing now. His high cheek bones, an angular chin, and thin, dusky-pink, lips made him look like a runway model. That was their gimmick, good looks, a silver tongue, and a sincere tone.
    “In case you didn’t get the memo, this is Switzerland pretty boy.”
    “I just had to come and see the freak.” His melodious voice made his words seem wrong.
    “Original.” Rolling her eyes she remained stock still, anxious for him to make his move.
    The demon sneered. “I can’t wait to see that pretty smile wiped off your face. You’ve been living up in your tower long enough princess, it’s time you made a decision.”
    “I haven’t for sixty years. It’s not going to change now. But please do hold your breath.”
    His eyes brightened with hell fire.
    “He’s coming for you Heavenleigh Spirit. Even your names make me sick.” A snake like hiss filled the alley. What was this a horror movie? Sorry pal, she didn’t scare easily.
    “I’m done talking. Either leave on your own, or I’ll give you a little motivation.” Here she thought her novelty had worn off. When she’d first turned of age they’d come in droves trying to goad her into action with far reaching consequences. That was the bitch about being Switzerland, you stepped one toe out of line, and the house of cards fell down around you.
    “I’ll be seeing you.”He winked. A puff of black smoke surrounded him. The scent of brimstone seared her nostrils, and he disappeared.
    And she’s the freak? Shaking her head she walked back into the bar. After all this time the pounding bass and muted blue lighting that greeted here felt like home. Normally she’d hang out for a bit after her shift ended, but tomorrow was inventory so she’d need the extra sleep. Striding behind the bar she touched her mothers’ shoulder.
    “Okay Mom, you’re all set for awhile. I’m heading home.”
    “All right baby, be safe.”
    “Always.” Squeezing her mother’s shoulder she left the bar and walked back to the employee room. Removing her black