Luke's Faith by Samantha Potter Page A

but for all paranormal creatures living on this earth. Luke was the prince of the Underworld and it was his duty to make sure gatherings such as these were safe and secure, protecting his subjects from humans. Many years ago, the population of the Underworld was diminishing before his eyes.
    Luke believed in one thing—love. Everyone deserved to have someone special in their life, and that’s why Luke decided he would allow all creatures to gather for one night each year. All paranormal creatures had their own packs, followers, or tribes gathering in many different places all over the earth. It was uncommon for two species to get along with one another, so to protect themselves and their families, they normally only associated with their own kind. No one was ever allowed to associate with Luke or any of his loyal subjects from the Underworld. It wasn’t considered appropriate and boundaries were important to Luke and his family. Failure to abide by such rules would lead to death by punishment.
    Luke had announced his plans to allow a gathering each year on New Year’s Eve, and his invitation extended to all paranormal creatures. Once word had gotten out about this rare but exclusive gathering, many were titillated. They all hoped they’d be graced with the presence of the prince of the Underworld and some were intrigued to be meeting beings of the opposite sex, praying to meet their mates and unleash the untamed lust.
    New Year’s Eve was the only time of year when rules were cast aside, and creatures were not restricted. Mates were chosen without obligations other than fun. On New Year’s Day, they would all gather to enjoy a feast before heading back to their homes and resuming their normal lives once again.
    Luke’s thoughts were broken by his ringing cell phone.
    “Luke speaking,” he said to the unknown voice on the other end.
    “As the prince of the Underworld, one would think you’d come up with a more terrifying way to answer your phone,” the voice hissed through the receiver.
    “Seriously, Dad, what the hell do you want?” Luke was fuming at his father always interfering in his life.
    “Well that’s a bit better but I’d still work on it. You have to get home soon. You haven’t completed your mission and you’re embarrassing me, and making a mockery of what we represent. You are an embarrassment and I’m ashamed to call you my son. Come back to the Underworld and get your ass into gear. If you ever want to take over as king, you better step up!” his father replied before slamming the phone, leaving a ringing noise in Luke’s ear.
    Wanker , Luke thought as he shook his head trying to extinguish the loud noise still penetrating his eardrums.
    He knew the relationship between him and his father was complicated but he didn’t have time to think about it at the moment, he had so much to do to prepare for the New Year's. Luke had no intention of going back home, not yet. He bought an apartment in New York City hoping he’d find what he wanted most. He had never experienced the emotion of love. Being the son of the devil and prince of the Underworld, havoc and damnation didn’t leave much time for love. His father wouldn’t be caught dead showing any emotion other than hatred and disappointment. It didn’t matter what achievements Luke had accomplished over the many, many years of his life, it was never good enough and general punishment was cursing, slaying, or killing someone who didn’t deserve it. His father just wanted to make sure he turned out like him.
    Luke took a deep breath trying to push down his emotions, he had to keep on track. Without further thought he flew into full speed, the mission in his mind was to make it back to his apartment and continue the arrangements. It didn’t take him long to get back to his apartment, he placed the key in the lock turning it gently as he listened to make sure no one was inside. When Luke believed it was clear he let the door swing open as he