Page 72 of Raising Hell
“It’ll be okay,” I said. “We talked to the furies. They know what happened and promised to help find whoever’s getting into Hell.”
She jerked a little in my arms and pulled back to look at me.
“You talked to the furies?”
“I did. Megan’s my friend.”
Doubt flickered across her expression.
“And you think the person attacking you isn’t from Hell?” she asked.
“Correct. I don’t think he is. The first time I saw him, he was wearing a modern shirt. I think he’s from Earth.”
Concerned questions erupted from nearby.
“What do we do, Father?”
“Were the souls freed as part of a new contract?”
“Will we be punished?”
Hades’ hand closed over my shoulder, and Zotera released me as he reeled me into his arms.
“All will be well, my children. There is nothing to fear. Your mother does not seek retribution. We must seek it for her. If you see anyone unfamiliar, bring them to me. Go. Search.”
The room cleared within moments, his children eager to do his bidding.
“Sit, my love,” Hades said, turning me toward his throne.
He waited until I was in the seat to kneel before me.
“Lift your skirt for me.”
“Were you thinking about this the whole time?” I asked, tugging my skirt up a few inches even though I knew sitting had already exposed my ankle.
“I was,” he said with ease. “Lift it higher.”
“You really do want a face kick, don’t you?”
He grinned at me.
“If it gives me the view I crave, plant your foot wherever you please.”
I rolled my eyes, secretly amused, and lifted my skirt just a little higher.
“That’s all I’m doing,” I said primly. “Either put the bracelet on, or let me.”
“How generous of you.”
“Pfft. Look at all the gold I’m wearing. I’m going to start clanking when I walk. I think I’m being very generous.” I realized how backward that sounded and shook my head at myself.
Hades sighed and stroked his hand over my exposed calf.
“It would have been a lovely display.”
He bent his head to place the chain, and I caught Zotera staring at me.
“He wanted me to get rid of all the contracts…as if I didn’t read the one about being able to choose how I dress. He’d have me topless in a heartbeat, right?”
