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Chapter Thirteen
I shifted in my seat, wanting nothing more than to rush forward.
Unfortunately, Lucifer must have guessed it, because he reached over and set a hand on my shoulder, keeping me in place with what seemed like zero effort.
As soon as the woman finished her introduction, Lucifer spoke, his voice booming across the courtyard. “I welcome the competitors. Enjoy yourselves, because in one hour, there will be fewer of you.” When he’d finished addressing the others, he lowered his voice just for me. “I take it these are the ones you asked about.”
“Yes. Would you let me go, now?”
“You test my patience,mortal.” His use of the word mortal felt like the threat he probably meant it to be, a reminder that I was far weaker and at risk. It was enough to make me settle down as he gestured for the men to approach.
Hunter strolled up at the front, looking entirely at ease with the situation. “Lucifer, nice to see you.”
“I doubt that. I rarely let creatures into my palace.”
“Which is why these competitions are so useful. How else will I get to drink all your booze?”
Lucifer made a disgruntled sound. “I take it you four are here because of Ava?”
Grant had his hands tucked into his pockets. “Of course not. I’m just really interested in fighting to the death for the entertainment of others. I’m a giver, you know.”
Troy didn’t look at Lucifer at all, his gaze locked on me. I could see his wolf peek through, as if they both needed to reassure themselves I was okay.
Even without him asking, I nodded, letting him know I was fine.
Kase remained silent, though I got the sense he was absorbing everything. The man was too smart to not already have a few plans on how to handle the situation.
And, oddly enough, I felt better. I didn’t feel so alone, so lost.
“As a competitor, I don’t think I’d be out of line to ask for a moment with the guest of honor,” Hunter said.
“Last request? At least you’re realistic about your odds,” Lucifer said, his hand still on my shoulder.
“I recall being undefeated,” Hunter said.
Lucifer snorted softly. “And I recall you backing out when facing an elder demon.”
“The prize wasn’t worth it.”
“My favors are wortheverything.”
“Not always.”
Lucifer shook his head, then stood. “Very well. Enjoy your time,competitors.It will likely be your last.” With that, Lucifer left, giving me the chance to bolt from my seat and throw myself against Hunter.
His lips were familiar and warm andperfect.He grabbed my ass as I wrapped my legs around him, desperate for that moment of connection.
Silence from around us made me pause and break the kiss.
With Lucifer gone, everyone was staring atus,including Persephone, her mouth hanging open.
I frowned, then whispered to Hunter, “We’re in hell—public displays of affection can’t be that taboo. I saw two people screwing by the snack table earlier.”
Hunter lowered me to my feet, making sure I rubbed against his front on the way down. “You, shadow-girl, were seated beside Lucifer. That is the top of the food chain here. We are competitors, who are allowed in the party so people can place bets, mostly. We’re at the bottom. This little show was the equivalent of the princess rushing off a throne to kiss a bellboy. You’re breaking quite a few unspoken rules.”
In for a penny…
I turned to offer a searing kiss to Grant, who smiled softly as if thrilled by my lack of proper etiquette. Kase didn’t lose himself, choosing instead for a quick, light kiss. No doubt he was too busy studying the room and potential threats to give in.
