Page 38 of Viktor's Temptation
Gracie glanced between them, her curiosity growing. “What does it mean, Viktor?”
Running a hand through his hair in frustration, Viktor finally muttered, “It means I’m… aroused.” His voice was clipped, as if he regretted saying it out loud. Without another word, he turned and strode toward the elevator.
Trent raised his eyebrows as Viktor walked away, clearly amused. “That’s all you’re going to tell her?”
Viktor didn’t stop or turn around. “That’s all she needs to know,” he called over his shoulder just before the elevator doors closed behind him.
Trent’s laughter echoed in the room as he turned to Gracie, whose cheeks were now burning a vivid red. “What’s so funny?” she asked, narrowing her eyes.
Trent shook his head, still chuckling. “Don’t worry. He’ll explain it all soon enough.”
Gracie crossed her arms, determined to change the subject. “Since you’re still here, how about some bagged blood? Viktor mentioned I’d have to get used to it.”
Trent smirked and motioned toward the kitchen. “I’ll show you where he keeps the good stuff. And has he mentioned his wine cellar yet?”
Gracie’s eyes lit up with interest. “Wine cellar? Trent, I think you and I are going to get along just fine.”
Trent laughed as he followed her toward the kitchen. “Oh, you have no idea, Gracie. No idea at all.”
Chapter 19
The secret room was a study in contrasts, combining opulence with magic-induced functionality. The privacy dome shimmered faintly overhead, creating that familiar otherworldly glow that seemed to hang in the air. Within its boundaries, the ceiling glittered like it had been studded with thousands of diamonds, their light refracting in hypnotic patterns. Below, upholstered chairs in deep crimson and royal blue were arranged around a sleek, polished table.
Without Sorcia’s magic, the room would appear empty and desolate. The old warehouse was only transformed during these secret meetings.
Viktor entered silently, his presence a ripple in the sphaera. The layers of security he’d passed through to get here were almost as impenetrable as the privacy dome Sorcia was now securing. As the high priestess lifted her hands, the air shimmered faintly, a slight hum filling the room as her spell activated. Her fingers moved in fluid, intricate patterns, and finally, with a sigh, she lowered her hands.
“We’re protected,” she announced, her voice soft but firm.
Viktor and Jace both waited as Sorcia moved to her chair and took her seat. Today, the high priestess’ attire was unexpectedly casual—fitted jeans and a snug tee-shirt replaced her usual business suits with stiletto shoes.
“What’s with the casual look?” Jace asked, settling into a chair and leaning forward to rest his elbows on his knees, his hands clasped in front of him.
Sorcia exhaled wearily, rubbing her thighs as if to ground herself. “I needed a break. We’ve had a flood of home closings this week. I’ve been running from bank to bank, meeting humans and dealing with too many emotions.”
Her coven’s vast real estate empire spanned banks, mortgage firms, and renovation teams—industries where her witches worked their magic, literally and figuratively. But even for Sorcia, the emotional chaos of emotions from her human clients could sometimes take its toll.
“Humans are exhausting,” she continued, waving a hand as if brushing the thought aside. “Their emotions are always so…” she paused, searching for the right word. “Messy.”
Jace nodded knowingly. “I can’t imagine having to feel all of that all the time.”
Sorcia offered a faint smile. “Usually, it’s manageable. But lately, the sphaera has been filled with a kind of emotional turbulence. It’s... merciless,” she whispered, her voice barely audible, as though the word itself carried weight.
“That’s probably my fault,” Viktor admitted, his voice laced with regret. He leaned forward to mirror Jace’s posture. “I’m sorry, Sorcia. I’m doing everything I can to fix this.”
She gave him a gentle smile, her luminous features softening. “I know you are. What can I do to help?”
Viktor straightened. “You and your witches sense emotions. The closer you are to the source, the stronger those feelings, correct?”
Sorcia nodded thoughtfully. “Yes, proximity amplifies our perception.”
“Good,” Viktor replied. “If I can provide you with some locations, could your coven members help pinpoint a place where... extreme pain has been experienced?”
Sorcia tapped a crimson nail against her cheek, considering his words. “It’s possible. But if the emotions are as intense as you suggest, my witches could be overwhelmed—potentially immobilized.”
“Too dangerous,” Jace interjected, shaking his head. “It’s not worth the risk.”
Sorcia’s melodic laugh filled the room, lightening the tension. “Ah, you men underestimate us yet again. I said itcouldimmobilize us. I didn’t say itwould. We’re witches, dear friends, not fragile flowers. We have spells and potions to shield us from such things—when forewarned.”
