Page 63 of Hell On Earth
“No peeking before I’m done,” I said.
He gave me a slow smile that didn’t reassure me. I tugged the curtain closed and hurried to change into the first dress sans bra since it was an off-the-shoulder option. The form-fitting, jewel-toned, blue dress hugged every curve and showed my panty lines. Those were staying right where they were regardless.
When I stepped out, Hades’ relaxed pose froze. His gaze heated.
Something bumped against the wall in the changing room next to me.
“Come to me, Ashlyn,” Hades breathed.
I wanted to. Really badly. But the look in his eyes let me know what he had in mind if I did.
“Do you like the dress?” I asked instead, smoothing my hands over my hips.
“Yes.”
Eliana opened her curtain. Her eyes were completely black when I looked at her in her pretty pink A-line dress.
“Fenris, can you take a picture?” she asked.
“Sure,” he said, taking out his phone. “It’ll look more convincing if you put your arm around Ashlyn.”
Eliana hesitated and turned her head toward Hades. “I’m afraid I’ll influence her,” she admitted.
“If you do, I vow to help her break free,” Hades said.
I snorted, knowing he was just looking for an excuse to make out with me. Sliding an arm around Eliana’s waist, I winked at Fenris and leaned in to kiss Eliana’s cheek.
He grinned as he snapped the picture.
“Really uncomfortable here,” Eliana said.
“You’re fine,” I said. “And so am I.”
I released her and held out a hand to Hades.
He immediately stood and took it, but before he could do anything, I turned toward Fenris.
“Can you take our picture?” I tucked myself against Hades’ side, wrapping one arm behind him and setting the other on his chest as I faced the camera.
“Got it,” Fenris said a moment later.
Hades reluctantly released me so I could try on the next one. He acted like that with each dress.
Transfixed. Obsessed. In need.
Eliana relaxed a little when I didn’t show any signs of growing attachment toward her after each picture. By the time we finished, my phone was buzzing with messages from the group chat.
Nicolette: The frost beast just called to inquire why I’m not with you. I told her you were sending me updates and sent her the first picture of Eliana and Ashlyn. I hope Ashlyn gets that dress.
Eliana: We’re about to move to a new store. It’s too early to start carrying bags.
Nicolette: That’s why you have the car, darling. Show Hades how it’s done.
Me: The dress is 6k. If I can spend 6k, I’d rather take a vacation.
Nicolette: It won’t look like a real shopping trip if you don’t buy something. Besides, it’s the Council’s money. Have fun.
Megan: Get the dress so I can borrow it!
