Page 81 of Mantle

He seemed relaxed, but there was something in his eyes… something hinting at intensity.

“Did something happen at Arcanum Conclave?”

He’d actually been quieter than usual lately, starting a few days ago when he’d returned from his work with the Order one night. He hadn’t addressed it or mentioned anything being wrong.

“Just trying to get into a relaxing headspace for tonight.”

“You’re stressed? It’s been a lot lately.”

“It sure has.” He laid his hand on my shoulder. “Let’s not focus on any of that tonight.”

“All right. I’m actually kind of focused on my hunger right now.”

He smirked. “Is that so?”

“Food-related hunger, you dirty-minded bastard. I haven’t eaten since breakfast. I got too caught up.”

“Just about food. Sure,” he said, with that devilish look of his.

And, damn him, something did stir in me.

“I would conjure one hell of a feast, but Nyx called it. He wants to do it.”

“Well, he better get here soon, or I’m gonna eatyou.”

“Offer appreciated. Very much so, for the record.” He fingered my hair, sending a rush of sensation through me. “But we both know it will be the other way around. Just how you like it, hmm?”

I snatched his hand and our eyes locked.

Heatedly.

“Not until after dinner, sorcerer.”

“Mmm, invitation noted. Maybe I’ll fuck—”

I pressed two fingers to his lips. “Cut it out, or I won’t be able to focus on anything else but my dick.”

He nibbled on my fingers.

I started, and he wiggled his eyebrows at me.

I burst out laughing and released him, and he stepped back grinning.

He was really something, and he was in an exceedingly playful mood tonight.

Ariana would like that a whole lot.

And Nyx would revel in it.

Hell, I was right there with—

A sharp whistle rang out.

My muscles tensed.

“Did you hear that?” I asked Kai.

He frowned. “Hear what?”

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