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“I’m cold.” Her softly uttered words contain a plea, not a command. Swallowing the lump in my throat, I pull the covers over our bodies and kiss the small dip in her throat.
“What else?” I need her to command me. I need her to find her strength.
“Just hold me.” She sobs again and pulls against her chains as I lie back and gently place her head on my chest.
She cries silently. “I got you, babe. I promise.” I barely speak the words, but my vow resonates through her, calming her. It hits me hard that she’s not herself. She’s not the strong, confident woman I know. She’s so damn wounded. “I got you.” I kiss her shiny black hair and let her cry.
Next time will be better. Next time I’ll push her a little more. Until there is nothing between us but trust. Until she doesn’t fear a damn thing in this world. Until she knows I will love her in her worst moments and through it all.
Part II
Blinded Obsession
Devin
Every wall of Alec’s office is lined with shelves that run from floor to ceiling. They hold a priceless collection of ancient books that no doubt contain information lost to civilization over time. The dark wood of antique furniture polished to a high shine, yet bearing the marks of history, adorns the office. In the very center of the three-story room sits a heavy desk with books stacked high upon its glossy surface. Two leather wingback chairs have been placed across from it. The pendant lamp above Alec’s desk encompasses an open flame, matching the torches placed in sconces around the room.
If I wasn’t aware that magic protects this space, I’d worry the texts would be in danger of being lost forever in a fire. It is common knowledge, though, that this room is heavily guarded by powerful wards.
I take a seat across from him and the old leather groans in protest. We’re nearly matched in our attire: dark slacks and simple button-down shirts. Although my clothes are custom tailored to fit my body perfectly. A pair of wire-rimmed glasses peek out from his shirt pocket and today he’s opted for a navy blue tie.
It’s not the first time I’ve come to visit him here, but this is the first time it’s been to deliver bad news.
“I’d almost forgotten how comfortable these chairs are,” I say as I sit back. Alec’s emotions are easily read. He allows his aura to coat the air around him. He’s peaceful and the comfort of his office makes it simple to follow his lead and adopt a relaxed nature. Vaguely I wonder if he already knows why I’m here.
With a grin that emphasizes the wrinkles around his eyes, he nods agreeably. “I prefer for my guests to feel at ease. Although, you don’t seem as comfortable as I’d like.”
“It would help if I was here for a different reason.” His small smile slips a bit and the air turns cold, but only for a moment. He parts his lips, but a quiet knock at the door stops him from speaking.
A petite blond woman with an upturned nose pushes through the door using her backside as she carefully handles a silver tray loaded with teacups and a teapot. She turns and gracefully strides to the desk.
She sets the tray down gently, jostling the cups only the faintest bit. With a deep breath, she offers Alec a bright smile. Her dark brown eyes seek Alec’s approval, shining with obvious affection. A humorous smirk plays at his lips and his light blue eyes find hers.
There’s unmistakable romantic tension between them. So much so that I’m given the impression I’m intruding and I readjust in my seat.
“Thank you, dear.”
Dear. My brow lifts, although I attempt to hide my reason.
Her gorgeous smile widens further as she leans across the desk to give him a peck on the cheek. I hurriedly avert my eyes as her blouse slips, revealing a bit more than I think she realized. All the sight of the two of them does, is remind me of my own mate. I already long for her.
It’s not until I hear the click of the door closing that I’m brought back to the present.
Back to Alec and the matters at hand.
“She seems very nice.” Alec grunts a response and lifts the teapot.
“Just sugar? Is my memory correct?” I nod and eye the old sorcerer in front of me. With a heavy sigh, he finally acknowledges the obvious. “She’s quite nice. I enjoy her company.”
“I think she enjoys yours as well.” His eyes dart to the door with longing before he clears his throat and passes me a teacup with its accompanying saucer.
The porcelain clinks and it doesn’t escape me that the dainty dishes look completely out of place in my callused hands.
“Your message was very vague. What is it that you need, old friend?”
His blunt response and dismissal of the conversation regarding the woman seems forced. I’m not sure why he seems so touchy about discussing her further. He’s the leader of the Authority. The most powerful man I know, human or otherwise. Not because his magic is so much greater than that of the others, but because of his connections.
If he wants something, he’s given it without question. I consider asking about the girl, but instead I move on to business. If he wanted to confide in me, he would. Besides, I hate to interfere. Still, the agreeable air seems dampened since she left and I don’t care for the change.
