Page 39 of The Devil's Wrath

Theo’s jaw clenched. “More like a declaration of war.”

“What happens now? Are you going to retaliate?”

His eyes grew distant, as if he were seeing something far beyond the dark forest that surrounded us. “Retaliation is inevitable. We can’t let an attack like this go unanswered. It would be seen as weakness, and in my world, weakness is an invitation for more bloodshed.”

“But won’t that just lead to more violence? More innocent people getting caught in the crossfire?”

He looked at me then, his gaze tinged with a sadness that made my heart ache. “Innocence is a luxury most of us can’t afford. Once you’re a part of this life, there’s no going back. The only way out is in a body bag.”

ELEVEN

WRENLY

Ididn’t argue with Theo when he told me to get on the back of his motorcycle. I wordlessly followed his instructions, allowing him to put his leather jacket on me before I slipped my legs over the back of his bike. I wrapped my arms tightly around his waist and let the rumble of the engine vibrate through my body. He revved the throttle, and we shot forward, the wind whipping my hair that fell loosely out of the helmet as we sped down the darkened streets.

I had no idea where we were going, but I didn’t care at that moment. All that mattered was the feeling of freedom as we flew through the night. I clung tighter to him, pressing my cheek against his muscular back as he weaved through traffic, taking curves at breakneck speeds. He pulled off onto a tree-lined driveway up to a huge manor lit by lights that cast a soft, golden glow against the stone walls.

Driving into the garage, he killed the engine, kicked down the stand, and gracefully dismounted, holding out his hand to help me off the bike. I took it, my legs feeling slightly unsteady after the exhilarating ride.

“Where are we?” I asked as we exited the garage and I took in the mansion’s impressive facade, which now loomed before us. Warm light spilled out from tall windows, beckoning us inside. I couldn’thelp but gape at the majestic architecture, which seemed like something out of a fairytale, with its towering spires, intricate stonework, and sprawling gardens that seemed to stretch for acres.

“This is my home,” he said, leading me up the stone steps to the massive oak doors.

Inside, the foyer was just as impressive as the exterior. A grand staircase swept up to the second floor, its banisters gleaming with polished wood. The air was filled with the faint scent of roses and old books, a comforting combination. He led me up the stairs, through an arched doorway, and into a bedroom adorned with antique furniture, plush velvet sofas, and an ornate fireplace crackling with dancing flames. Paintings in gilded frames hung on the walls, depicting idyllic landscapes and ethereal portraits.

“Make yourself at home,” he said. “Can I get you a drink?”

I nodded, still in awe of the opulent surroundings. He gestured for me to sit on the plush velvet sofa as he crossed to a side table holding crystal decanters filled with amber liquid.

I sank into the cushions, my eyes roaming over the room. I took in the floor-to-ceiling bookshelves filled with leather-bound volumes, more ornate paintings adorning the walls, and the crystal chandelier hanging overhead. It was like stepping into another world, one of luxury and refinement.

When he returned, he handed me a glass before settling beside me on the sofa, close enough that our thighs brushed. I took a sip, the smooth burn of whiskey lit a fiery path down my throat. He watched me intently, his eyes smoldering with an unspoken intensity.

“Why did you bring me here?” I asked suddenly.

“I brought you where I knew you’d be safe.”

I took another sip of the whiskey, feeling its warmth spread through my body. Theo’s word echoed in my mind.

Safe.

After the night’s events, the idea of safety seemed almost foreign. But here, with Theo by my side, I felt this unusual sense of security wash over me.

“Thank you,” I said softly, meeting his gaze. “For bringing me somewhere safe.”

“I would do anything to protect you.”

The sincerity in his voice made my heart skip a beat. “But why?”

“I can’t explain it. All I know is I can’t let you go.” He reached out, his fingertips grazing my cheek with a featherlight touch that made my skin tingle.

I leaned into it, my eyes fluttering closed. When I opened them again, his face was mere inches from mine, his breath warm against my skin.

“Theo . . .” I whispered, my voice barely audible over the crackling of the fire.

“Tell me to stop,” he murmured as his lips hovered over mine. “Tell me you don’t want me.”

I couldn’t form the words. Because the truth was, I did want him. More than I had ever wanted anyone or anything in my life. His very presence ignited a deep ache within me that yearned to be soothed by his touch. I closed the remaining distance between us, pressing my lips to his in a searing kiss. His mouth moved against mine with a desperate hunger as his arms encircled my waist, pulling me flush against his hard body. I tangled my fingers in his dark hair, kissing him back with equal fervor.

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