Page 152 of Split or Swallow

“Kora,” she relented finally. “But you’re paying for every round, not just the next one.”

Leo grinned. “Naturally.”

Tem rolled her eyes, and with one final shove, disentangled herself from his arms.

“Whiskey,” she said simply. Then she left him at the bar and huffed into the booth next to Gabriel, who asked:

“Is that who I think it is?”

“Yes,” snapped Tem.

“What the hell is he doing here?”

“He had a fight with his father.”

“Daddy issues,” Gabriel said knowingly. “Sexy.”

“Just shut up and enjoy your free drinks.”

Gabriel was still smiling when Leo returned to the table and handed them each a whiskey.

“Thanks…your Highness.”

Leo laughed. “Please. Call me Leo.”

“Call me Gabriel.”

“I certainly shall.”

“What’s with the hardware?” Gabriel pointed at Leo’s mouth, where his gold teeth glinted in the dim light of the bar.

Tem elbowed Gabriel. But Leo only smiled wider, showing the full extent of the metal.

“They’re traditional,” Leo answered. “The men in my family get them when we turn eighteen, among other gifts.”

“Not the women?”

He shrugged. “The women get gold in other forms. Jewelry, usually.”

“Must be nice to be able to afford gold.”

“Gabriel,” Tem said. Leo touched her leg, halting her protest.

“It is nice,” he said carefully. “But I don’t pretend to have earned it.”

“Hm,” Gabriel glanced at Tem. “I like him.”

“That makes one of us.”

Leo grinned at her. “Your opinion of me is more favorable than you let on.”

Tem rolled her eyes. “And how do you know that?”

“I’m here, aren’t I? You let me stay.”

“You were a damsel in distress. I had to.”

“You chose to, and I am very grateful.”