Page 153 of Tower of Ash and Darkness
Gwyn sighs, shaking her head, before settling beside him on the log. She pulls out a blade and a whetstone, the rhythmic scrape of metal against stone blending with the crackle of the fire.
“I don’t mean to be rude,” I say, tilting my head as I glance at Alias, “but you seem to have misplaced your true dinner.”
He freezes mid-chew, his vibrant gaze snapping to me. For a beat, he says nothing, his expression somewhere between amusement and mock offense. Then, with a broad grin that bares his elongated canines, he holds the carrot out like a dagger, pointing it in my direction.
“Why? Are you offering?” he says, his tone playful and teasing.
Before I can retort, Gwyn smacks him upside the head, the sound clear enough to echo. Alias yelps, clutching the back of his head as he glares at her.
“What was that for?” he demands, rubbing the spot she struck.
“For being insufferable,” Gwyn replies, her voice calm as she continues sharpening her knife.
Callum snorts, rolling his eyes at the exchange, while Alias scowls at Gwyn, muttering under his breath. She doesn’t even look at him, her mouth widening just enough to show she’s enjoying his indignation.
Alias rubs the back of his head, still pouting.
“You know, Gwyn, one day you’re going to miss me when I’m gone,” he grumbles, glaring at her out of the corner of his eye.
“Not if you keep acting like a child,” Gwyn shoots back without missing a beat. “And stop pretending that hurt. You’re more durable than that.”
I glance between them, trying to suppress a laugh.
“Does he always behave this way?” I ask Gwyn, leaning forward slightly.
“Always,” she replies dryly, her eyes flicking up to meet mine. “Alias thrives on annoying people. It’s like air to him.”
Alias gasps, clutching his chest theatrically.
“You wound me, Gwyn. Right here.” He points to his heart.
Gwyn rolls her eyes, though I catch the faintest trace of a smile before she refocuses on her blade.
“You’ll live.”
“So how did you two meet?” I ask, curiosity getting the better of me. “Did he start pestering you the moment you crossed paths, or did it take time?”
Gwyn chuckles under her breath.
“Oh, he was worse when we first met. Overconfident, reckless, and convinced he could charm his way out of anything.”
Alias interrupts with a grin.
“And you loved every second of it.” Alias says with a teasing grin, leaning back casually, clearly enjoying the attention.
I watch them both, noting how their banter flows so easily, like an old routine they’ve mastered over time. It’s obvious they’ve been through a lot together, but there’s something more beneath the surface. The way Alias jokes, the way Gwyn’s eyes soften just a little when she’s looking at him—it’s clear there’s a history, a deeper connection that they don’t acknowledge out loud.
Gwyn rolls her eyes, but a small smile tugs at the corner of her lips. Alias laughs, leaning in slightly.
“You know Gwyn, most women find me irresistible.” He shoots her a wink.
Gwyn just shakes her head, though her expression softens.
“I don’t care much for your charm, Alias” she replies dryly. “You have always been known for two things: sleeping around with every woman who catches your eye, and taking down every vampire male who challenges you.”
Alias grins proudly.
“And I am damn good at both. No one can touch me.”
