Xander bent so his nose was in the crook of my neck and inhaled. He blew out a breath in disappointment. “You smell like one of us. How sad. Still good, though.” He licked my skin, and I swatted at him in return.
“Anyway, you will blend in fine now. The magic doesn’t last forever. A few weeks at best.” She handed me another two vials. “These should tie you over for a while, but I don’t know how feasible this is for a long-term solution. Yosef needs to figure out what he will do with you but until then, enjoy. I’m sure I’ll see you soon, but right now, both of you need to leave. It’s way too early, and I want to go back to sleep.”
I gave her a nod in thanks. “I appreciate this.”
“Think nothing of it. Yosef has been a huge support to me, and you’ve made Xander less…Xander.”
I wasn’t sure how I’d changed the crazy faerie because he still seemed off-center to me. How was he before? That was something to think about for another time. Until then, I had fae living to do.
I looked to Xander with a wide grin. “I want to have a fun, fae day.”
A twinkle lit his eyes. “Your wish is my command.”
CHAPTER12
XANDER
We spent the day touring some popular places in town. I spoiled her with more gifts she didn’t ask for, but I refused to take them back. She seemed excited at everything I showed her. While I thought she was genuinely impressed with our town, I knew her intelligent mind was also looking for ways back home. I wasn’t stupid. She could like me, but that didn’t mean she would give up wanting to return home. We’d have to watch her very carefully now. I was mildly surprised she hadn’t tried to run from me that day. Either she was enjoying my company, or she was plotting. It could be both.
We ended the day going to my favorite pub for food and drink. Usually when I came, I sat at the bar, even when I was with someone, but that evening, we sat in the back in a tiny booth. This time I just wanted her all to myself in my little corner of the world. I didn’t mind sharing her with Yosef, but strangers would have to fall back. I was already brimming with annoyance at the many curious eyes on her throughout the day. Even more so at the pub. People were used to seeing me with women, so I didn’t understand the interest. Well, she was beautiful. Her thick white curls and bright purple eyes against her darker skin was a striking contrast. Then there was the face tattoo. It was a popular trend among the younger fae. A nice touch to give her a cool factor, but I wasn’t sure we needed it. Perhaps, Melina had done too good a job. Then again, even without the magic, Lila was a sight.
She rubbed my thigh, bringing my focus back to her, and I spread my legs wider. “Feel free to move that hand higher, love,” I cracked.
She slapped my thigh. “You just can’t help yourself.”
I picked up her hand and kissed it before settling it back on my thigh. “I think you know the answer to that. So, what did you think of our day?”
Her eyes widened, glowing in fact. I loved to see that happiness. It was rare. “It was kinda dope. I used to think unseelie cities were all darkness and gloom with angry-looking fae in black armor.”
I laughed, not surprised. That was the story being told in the human realm, but it wasn’t far from the truth. “Those cities exist. They’re the ones that probably cause you the most trouble. Cities like ours just don’t bother with the humans at all.”
She placed her cloth over her plate, done eating. “I can see that.”
I twirled one of her curls around my finger lazily, trying to sound as nonchalant about my next question as possible. I didn’t want to seem desperate or weak. I just decided she was mine and wanted her to feel the same. “Could you see yourself staying here?”
She gave me a weary look before leaning into me. Although she was an ice mage, her body was warm against mine. She felt right against my side, like a puzzle piece. It was always nice being near her, and I had to say I enjoyed this day just as much as her. “If this city was in the human realm, I’d be all about it. It’s hella cool. If I could easily hop back and forth between the worlds, that’d be an easier question.”
I nodded slowly, understanding her answer but not wanting to accept it. Was her life that amazing in the human realm? We could help her open a bakery here. Fae had large sweet tooths. She had no family. Just that one friend, who was an omega with several alpha mates. Her friend would be preoccupied with them. Where did Lila fit in? Her life could be so beautiful here with me.
A waitress came by with another round of drinks, and Lila stood up. I grabbed her wrist, unsettled by her leaving the table. “Where are you going?”
She rolled her eyes, but there was a smile on her lips. “To the little girl’s room. I think it’ll be fine if I’m out of your sight for five minutes. I won’t try to run away.”
I wasn’t worried about that. While it was entirely possible she could leave, I had this unfounded certainty that, for now, she would remain. I crooked a finger at her, and she bent forward. “Maybe I could join you back there.”
She looked at me with wide eyes, standing upright. “No, we just got our drinks and can’t leave them unattended. You are extremely naughty.” She winked at me before turning. “But I like it.”
I snorted and picked up my drink, smiling to myself. Actually smiling. What was with me? I only smiled when I was fighting. Was this a bad thing that I was falling for her? Would this be a weakness?
I narrowed my eyes as a few heads turned in her direction as she passed by tables on the way to the bathroom. I didn’t want to have to knock heads off shoulders, but I would if needed. Maybe it wasn’t a good idea bringing her here. All it took was her sexy persuasion, and I was glazed-eyed and willing. She wanted to go out for dinner and drinks, and against my better judgment, I had agreed. Yosef was working late today, but when he found out, he would have a proper fit.
Minutes later, Lila came sauntering from the bathroom hallway. She really was fearless. She seemed to have no problems maneuvering about in this realm that was far from her own. Then again, her life had been about being out of her comfort. It made me admire her.
A male stepped in front of her path. He was tall and built wide and boxy. I’d never seen him before, and it was possible he was new to our court. By his relaxed clothing, he appeared to be some sort of laborer or construction worker. He was bald, with a tattooed head and pointed ears. He smiled at her, and I could see a row of sharp teeth.
I was already gripping the table when he got near her. He said something, and she shook her head, moving around him. He then smacked her on the ass, and my vision darkened. I don’t even remember moving from the table to the man. All I knew was that I had tossed him back on his ass, knocking him into a nearby table and spilling the patron’s food and drink.
The fae jumped up, towering over me. His face a mask of rage. “Do you want to die?”
