Page 57 of The Hunter's Empire

"You invited me."

"A mistake I continue making."

For a moment, it almost feels normal. Friends teasing each other. Old acquaintances sharing jokes. People enjoying a weekend in the countryside.

The illusion lasts only a few seconds. Then I remember where we are. Who these people are. And what they are capable of.

The realization settles heavily in my stomach. Because beneath the laughter, beneath the expensive clothing and polished manners, every person standing here possesses some degree of power.

Some wield money. Some wield influence. Others wield fear. And a few wield all three.

Darragh finally shoulders the rifle and begins walking toward the shooting marker positioned farther down the slope.

The crowd immediately follows, eager to witness another display. Conversation shifts with them.

Within moments, most of the guests have moved several yards away. Leaving Domenico and me standing near the edge of the wooden platform overlooking the woods.

The sudden reduction in noise feels strangely noticeable. I am far too aware of the man standing beside me.

Domenico rests one hand against the wooden railing overlooking the clearing. For several seconds, neither of us speaks.

Unfortunately, silence has never been particularly safe around him. "You've been avoiding looking at me all morning."

I keep my attention fixed on the hunting grounds below. "Have I?"

"Mm-hm." The sound carries far too much amusement.

I finally glance at him. His expression is infuriatingly calm.

"Perhaps I've simply been enjoying the scenery."

His gaze lingers on my face. "I don't think that's it."

I already know where this conversation is heading. I hate that he's enjoying himself.

"What exactly do you think it is?"

A slow smile appears on his face. "I think you've been unusually distracted since last night, Elf."

Heat immediately climbs into my cheeks. Damn him. The worst part is that he notices. Of course he notices.

His eyes darken slightly. "There it is."

I narrow mine. "There what is?"

"The reaction."

My grip tightens around the railing. "You are remarkably arrogant for someone who spends most of his time annoying people."

A quiet laugh escapes him. "I've been called worse."

"I can imagine."

The smile doesn't leave his face. If anything, it becomes more pronounced. And for one brief moment, I seriously consider pushing him off the platform.

The thought is interrupted by Darragh shouting from farther down the slope. "Lucien! You're up again after this one."

Several people turn toward us. The interruption breaks whatever had been building between us. Yet the irritation remains.