“It only becomes dark if you’re taking it from someone unwillingly. But I don’t think many pixies are willing to extract theirs, so anyone who knows how to work with it is likely a criminal.”
“I’ve decided it’s like giving blood. If I donate it for the cause—if it’s my choice—it’s all right. Besides, I’ll be the one manipulating it.”
“You know it’s not an easy task, don’t you? There’s a reason the fae colleges exist. This is highly advanced magic we’re talking about.”
“What I lack in skill I’ll make up in determination.”
He studies me, quietly opposed.
“Will you help me?”
“I don’t believe I have a choice. Who knows what dark alley Rowan will send you down if the two of you are planning this on your own.”
Relieved, I lean against him. “Really?”
He nods, sliding his hand under my hair. “On one condition.”
My heart picks up its pace. “Are we making conditions now?”
“Don’t let the tea shop suffer, all right?” Genuine concern crinkles his brow.
I nod solemnly. “I won’t.”
Ash studies me and then adds pressure to the back of my neck, coaxing me forward. My eyes flutter shut as his mouth meets mine.
Our magic twines together, exhilarating.
Feeling me shiver under his hand, Ash breaks the kiss, concerned. “Is my magic too cold?”
“No,” I say immediately, wanting him to kiss me again. It’s new and wonderful, and I need more. I swallow my nerves and softly admit, “I like it.”
His eyes darken, and a smile plays at the corner of his mouth. He meets me again, his kiss a little firmer this time. With his lips still exploring mine, he stands so he can draw me closer.
My heart beats rapidly, and my breath catches as I lift my hands, placing them on his shoulders. After several long seconds, Ash pulls back, his bottom lip lingering against mine like he can’t bear to break the kiss.
But then he does, and we’re left looking into each other’s eyes. The moment too much, I look down, feeling my cheeks warm.
He strokes my shoulder, his magic still enveloping me. “You’re lovely when you blush.”
“You bring all of my emotions to the surface.”
“I appreciate that you can’t hide them.”
I look up, my eyes softening as I meet his dark brown gaze. I remember Rowan’s warning, and then I cast it aside. Ash isn’t the monster he’s made him out to be, nor does he seem offended by the fact I’m a pixie.
People change, and it’s possible the Ash Rowan knew as a young man is not the Ash that’s standing before me today.
“I like you,” I say.
He smiles, not trying to hide it. “I like you, too.”
“Even though I’m a pixie?”
“Your magic is charming.”
His words bring me peace. Ash closes his eyes, smiling as my summer magic wraps around him like a warm hug.
“You want to try that tea now?” I ask.
