At least he’s not angry anymore.
An angry captor is a dangerous captor.
“Then what did ‘kin’ mean?” I hold my breath, waiting to see if he will be willing to share more information.
He doesn’t disappoint.
“Eric and deities like him thrive on conspiracy and intrigue. His kind aligned with the rebellion without much coaxing.”
You know… I’d really like to meet an Immortal who thrived off thegoodaspects of humanity.
I swallow down the sentiment. “Isn’t the rebellion worried deities like him will turn on you?” I dare to inquire.
“No.” He cocks his head to the side. “Why do you ask?”
“I-I don’t know.” I lift a shoulder, feigning nonchalance. “Anyone who thrives on traitorous behavior doesn’t seem like someone I’d trust.”
“Hm. That’s a fair point.” He leans back and lifts a leg, resting his ankle over his knee. “But don’t worry. No one would dare cross me.” A promise of retribution underlies the words.
I dig my fingers into my jeans to hide how they tremble.
“What do you think of my home?” Adir changes the subject, motioning to the study around us.
I glance at the stone-walled room decorated with ornate tapestries, reminiscent of the frescos covering the ceilings in Thane’s mansion.
“It’s nice.” My voice lacks inflection.
“Come now, Darcie. Lighten up.” His eyes trail over me. “You’re so tense. Relax. I will not harm you.”
Yet.
“I’m cold.” I demonstrate the fact by letting a shiver run through my body.
“Well, we can’t have that.” He stands and reaches for the thick green blanket lying over the back of his chair.
My muscles lock in place. Adir stands and steps towards me, holding out the green blanket with an unsettling smile. I reach out to take the blanket to keep him from drawing too close, but he ignores my hand and drapes the blanket over me himself.
As the material falls over my legs, I lower my chin, unable to hold his uncomfortable gaze.
Adir’s fingers brush against my arms as he tucks the blanket against me. Then, he walks back and sits down in his seat.
“Better?” he asks.
My heart races. I lift my eyes. Adir watches me expectantly, wearing an expression meant to appear concerned and caring.
His attempts to act friendly annoy me.
I can’t take it anymore.
“Why am I here?” I ask.
His lips twitch. “I’ve already told you. You’re going to help me overthrow the brothers.”
I shake my head. “I don’t understand how. You said you believe I’m not Des’sOne.”
“Yes. However, Thane and Lome are convinced otherwise.”
My forehead furrows. “So?”