Page 105 of Queen of the Crimson Throne

I scoffed. “Your method sounds a lot healthier than mine.” I held up the bottle for her to see.

“But yours is much more fun.” She took the bottle from my hand, bringing it to her lips.

“I wouldn't do that if I was you.”

She rolled her eyes as she brought the bottle to her lips.

“The fuck is this shit?” She coughed, the liquor spitting everywhere.

I couldn’t help myself, I laughed.

“It’s not funny! You asshole.” She slapped her hand against my arm.

“Hey, I warned you.”

“Not well enough.”

“I can’t help it if you’re not a very good listener.”

“I assumed you were being greedy. Usually everything you drink is good.”

“Everything I drink is good. This isn’t mine. Somehow my bar cart ended up empty. This is all I could find.”

“Well next time you come find me. I’ve still got the good stuff.”

“Noted, Sweetheart,” I told her as we made it to our doors, my hand twisting on the knob as I pushed it open with my shoulder.

“Aren't you coming in?”

Lennox stood in her open doorway, brows raised expectantly. “I said I have the good alcohol.”

I let myself smile slightly. “You know I can’t say no to you.”

I had told myself I would have one drink with Lennox, but here I was, still in her room three drinks later, sitting beside her on the couch in front of the fire as we continued to chat idly. After each drink I told myself I was going to leave.

But then she asked if I wanted another one and I could never get myself to say no.

But now I needed to go.

Lennox sat next to me, her head resting on the back of the couch with her eyes closed.

“I should get going,” I announced. “It’s late and it’s been a long day.”

Lennox opened her eyes. “I suppose you’re right.”

I held out a hand and she took it, allowing me to help her stand. I pulled her to me, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, letting my finger linger on her jaw.

“Do you—” She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “Do you want to stay here tonight—with me?”

“Do you want me to stay here with you?”

“Yes.” Her eyes fell shut as I let my fingers dance down her neck.

I dropped my hand and took a step back before I let my touch linger any longer.

“I’m going to go get ready for bed, but I’ll be back.” I forced myself to take a step back, keeping my eyes on her until my back hit the door.

Maybe staying was a bad idea—especially after today.

---