Page 55 of The Nightbound Soldier

“Fleur,” Nottuza says. “A word in private.”

I almost stomp my foot, but I think growling at him will do again. “Of course. Be right back.”

24

FLEUR

Nottuza ushers me into a sterile room where a repeating sequence of the world map serves as tapestry. Red pins mark some places; black, blue, and white, even purple mark the others. A table in the middle holds more maps and a few books.

Nottuza throws his uniform jacket over it before loudly closing the door behind us. Not quite slamming it, but not closing it silently either. I can feel him simmering with questions, and so I walk around the room, making him wait.

“D’Artaron has a room similar to this one. You should invite him over for tea. The pair of you could jerk off over military strategy and visions of world domination.”

When he doesn’t respond, I look over and find him with his hands folded over his chest, leaning against the door. Casual. Relaxed. In control. Makes me want to shake him.

My magic stirs and touches him, caressing his cheek, down his body, gently teasing its way into his pants. And then my magic moves into his body as if he can absorb it. Strange.

Since there are no chairs, I sit on the table and cross one leg over the other at the knee, making sure my robe parts, revealing my brand-new, blue leather boots I’m trying on for tonight’s ball.

Nottuza nods appreciatively. “Are you wearing those boots tonight?”

“Maybe.”

“They suit you.”

“Barefoot suits what I intend to wear better, but the floors are too cold for that.”

“Then have them heated.”

“Elven fire magic is essential for that.”

“Bring the elves, then.”

“I tried.”

“And?” he asks.

“They won’t come.”

“Make them come.”

“That’s not my style.”

Nottuza smirks. “Hence the reason Aamako brought you here.”

I huff out a breath. “Against your advice, I presume.”

“Correct.”

“I don’t like to stay in company where I am not wanted.”

“Oh, you are wanted. Very much so.”

I’m trying not to misinterpret what he means. Does he want me? I think he does, but most males want me. My magic makes it so. The difference with Nottuza is that I want him, and I want him to want me in a way that has nothing to do with my magic, but everything to do with me. Just me.

Why him?Duane’s question remains, which reminds me of why we came into the office. “You wanted to see me in private?” I prompt.

“What is your relationship with the young wolf?”

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