Page 101 of Poison's Kiss
I shiver against the biting wind the second we walk out. I wasn't expecting it to be this cold out with the sun shining so brightly, but winter is getting stronger by the day. The thin satin doesn't even make an attempt to shield me from the cold air, and my bare feet curse me for forcing them to endure the icy ground.
"Here," Gage says while scooping me up and pulling me into his immortal warmth. "I shouldn't have asked you to come out dressed like that. I forgot how much colder this is to you. I just wanted a second away from everyone."
I get worried he's going to tell me he loves me again, and this time I can't pretend I'm asleep. My whole body tenses as he places me in the front seat of his black Audi. The heat starts blaring before he even climbs into the car, and I smile at his use of magic to offer me warmth.
"Thanks."
He leans over and kisses me hard, surprising me, and my hand slips into his hair as I shamefully enjoy his touch. He draws back and pulls my hand in his, staring at our contact instead of into my eyes.
"You can label us. I'm sorry I ever said you couldn't. It was stupid, and to be honest, I just panicked a little. After last night, I know without a doubt I don't want to lose you. I want to be with you, Alyssa."
My heart almost melts, but the image of his lips on another girl creeps into my mind to ice the beating betrayer in my chest.
"Gage, I told you last night that-"
"I know," he interrupts, still not looking up. "I know I hurt you, and I know you're not ready to dive back in. I just want you to know that I'm ready when you are."
I force a smile, relieved he's not going to tell me he loves me again. He leans over and kisses me one last time, lingering in the moment a little too long, and then he reluctantly withdraws.
"I should let you get to work. Call me?" I ask while opening the door and inviting in the chill.
"Of course I'll call. You call me if anything happens. I'll see you soon."
I climb out before getting lost in his eyes, and I quickly make my way through the cold and back inside, grateful for the blessed heat. I almost want to throw myself in the fire to warm up. Dray chuckles as my teeth chatter violently, as if they're scolding me for braving the chill in my less than feasible attire.
I'm thankful Kane is nowhere in sight, and I'm praying I can avoid him for a while. I don't feel like dealing with whatever cruel or snarky remarks he's been holding back.
"I need to get going. Drackus is expecting me to update him on everything, and I plan to raid his library to see if I can find anything else to help us out," the dark angel says just before disappearing in a black foggy exit.
"Well bye," I murmur sardonically to the nothingness.
Dice snickers, and then he stands. "I'm going to try to get some shuteye now. I'll see you guys in a few."
Zee slides in front of the TV and turns on the annoying game he bought. I roll my eyes and head to the kitchen to pour some more coffee. As soon as I see the strong brew, I regret coming into the kitchen.
Kane is pouring his own cup of coffee, making this awkward. He smiles lightly when he sees me, and he brings the pot over to me, pouring my cup full before turning back around and putting it back on the burner. He leans up against the counter, sipping his piping hot drink as he studies me.
I squirm uncomfortably while adding my cream, and I try to think of a way to lessen the tension.
"Why do you think she's after the two of us?" I ask softly, my voice cracking slightly from my nerves.
"Maybe because she's jealous? She could be an old acquaintance of mine. I've been around a while, but I've only ever loved one girl."
Well that backfired. "Don't do this right now."
"Do what, Alyssa? It's not like it's some big secret."
I look at him, and I mentally pull on my extra layer of skin, readying myself for whatever cruel thing he's waiting to strike me with.
"I haven'tchosenhim. Whatever you want to say, get it out there. I don't want to deal with your hurtful gashes all day. Get it all out now so we can focus on the real problem at hand."
He winces, as though I'm the one who has said something cutting.
"I don't plan on saying anything hurtful, Alyssa. But you did make a choice, so don't fool yourself. I also realize why you made that choice. I didn't exactly handle things well after I found out you were a witch, but-" He runs his hand through his hair as he looks away, stopping short.
"But?" I prompt.
He sighs out hard, looking back up to catch my eyes. He comes to stand dangerously close and rests his hand on my side.
