Page 264 of Sorrow & Strangers

“Watching you means that I get all kinds of intel about the scandalous lives of the Avalon population.”

My lips twitch, and I try to tamp down the satisfaction I feel at further proof that he never stopped watching. “Oh, and I think Zach is trying to get information about Ashley. He’s been texting me nonstop about her.”

“Would it help for him to see her? Rafe could be off campus for the day.”

“I don’t think that’s a good idea. I’ve seen her getting up close and personal with a junior sorcerer.”

“How are the rest of your brothers?”

“They’re okay. I went to Eden a few weeks ago for the weekend.”

“I’m aware.”

I laugh softly, and he moans softly.

“I’ve missed that sound.”

His words kill my laughter, and my core heats a little. “I appreciated your letter.”

“I won’t mention how many drafts there were of it.”

“Tell me.” I almost moan at the thought of him getting frustrated at words on a page, over me.

“Many, many times,” he says, his voice low.

I bite my lip, hesitating for a while before I steel myself. “Can I ask you something a little inappropriate?”

“Ask me,” he says, his voice dark.

I feel my cheeks heat, and my confidence dwindles. “Actually, never mind.”

“Ask. Me,” he commands, making my core clench, my body eagerly responding to his tone.

“Tell me how you’ve been for the past few months,” I say, chickening out. I am such a coward.

“I will tell you after you ask me what you actually wanted to.”

“Stranger, please . . .” I exhale shakily.

He sighs. “You don’t want to know the answer to how I’ve been.”

“That bad?” I grimace.

“No, it’s simply not something you will want to hear about.”

“Why?” Was he dating? Fucking people? I have heard of entire realms with ongoing orgies. Unease slithers through me, and I know how hypocritical that is, considering Max.

“I was researching the fae.” He pauses. “So I could understand the threats against you better.”

“Ah . . .” I swallow, the awkwardness seeping back in. “I should probably sleep.”

“All right,” he says, his voice tight.

“I’ll talk to you soon?”

“I’d like that.”

“Goodnight, Stranger.” I exhale.