Page 119 of Hand-Fasting and Other Hazards
“Perfect timing,” Lochlan said, working to project a calm he did not feel as he signed the delivery slip. The worker handed over the package with a polite nod before retreating down the steps.
Resting on top of the package was a note, written in Wulfric’s precise hand.
You and Nia will join me for dinner tonight.
Lochlan turned to go back inside and close the door, but froze mid-motion. Nia pulled into the spot behind his truck, her sharp green eyes locking onto the delivery worker as she cut the engine. His pulse kicked up. Thankfully, they were already halfway down the block.
Nia swung off the bike in one fluid movement, pulling off her helmet as she walked toward him. Her vibrant hair spilled free, catching the light.
“Hey,” she said, her gaze flicking to the package in his hands.
Before he could respond, she leaned in, brushing her lips against his in a kiss that was far too brief for his liking. When she pulled back, her attention lingered on the package, a hint of curiosity creeping into her expression.
“What’s that?”
Lochlan forced a smile, gripping the package a little tighter. “Oh, just a book,” he said, keeping his tone casual. “A new volume for me to repair.”
Nia raised an eyebrow, skepticism flashing in her eyes, but she recovered quickly. “Okay.”
Lochlan shifted his weight, clearing his throat. “What are you doing home so early?”
Her lips quirked into a smirk, but there was something guarded in her expression. “Last-minute meeting came up,” she said, waving a hand vaguely toward the house. “I wanted to change before heading out again.”
“Oh,” he said. “Your father’s summoned us for dinner tonight.”
The words hung awkwardly between them. She studied him for a long moment, unreadable, before giving a small nod and stepping past him toward the front door. Lochlan followed her, his grip on the package firm as they walked upstairs together. He could feel her watching him out of the corner of her eye, her curiosity palpable and unnerving.
When they reached the top of the stairs, he hesitated for just a moment before unlocking the office door.
“I’ll just drop this off,” he said, his voice too quick, too forced. Lochlan didn’t need to look back to feel the weight of her gaze as the door clicked shut behind him, blocking her out.
Inside, he leaned against the door for a moment, exhaling a long breath. His shadows stirred restlessly at the edges of his vision, a mirror of the unease coiling in his chest.
He left the package unopened on his desk: the final piece.
When he walked into the bedroom, he stopped short. Nia stood by the closet, changing into something more businesslike. Her back was to him, her movements efficient as she pulled a blouse from a hanger. She was in just her bra and slacks, the curves of her body catching the soft afternoon light streaming through the window.
Lochlan couldn’t help himself. He crossed the room, his hands finding her waist as he pressed a kiss to her shoulder.
Nia laughed, swatting at him playfully. “I have a meeting.”
“Who’s the victim?” he teased.
She rolled her eyes, turning back toward the closet. “I’m meeting with the owner of the manor we went to for Becket’s event,” she said, slipping the silky shirt over her arms. “I want to turn it into a place for young supernaturals.”
Lochlan raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
Nia continued as she buttoned her blouse. “We have spaces like this for humans—places for kids and families. But those with children whose magic is still a little wild can’t use them. It’s too risky. They might be seen and get in trouble.”
Lochlan frowned, confused. “I thought the Videt had this kind of place?”
She turned and gave him a pointed look. “That one is reserved for the families of people who work there. Those with money and means.”
Lochlan felt like a fool. He hadn’t known—hadn’t paid attention. The unease he’d felt earlier settled back over him. “You’re right,” he said after a moment. “That’s an amazing idea.”
Her expression softened. A small, pleased smile lifted her lips. “Yeah?”
“Yeah.”
