Page 7 of Shattered Magic

“I never thought I would be so attracted to a woman in a hair net.”

“But blood and brains didn’t bother you?”

“You were gorgeous no matter what was on you, as you are now.”

“Right. Well, have your party. Take some pictures. Share with social media. I will send you a congratulatory message during my break.” She smiled. “Have fun. I have a project I have been waiting to play with.”

“We will discuss this later.” He rubbed her arm.

“Much later. You had better go and deal with those bystanders.”

“You are dismissing me?” He cocked his head.

“Oh. Yeah. I have things to do.” She smiled brightly and watched him look suspicious.

“I will see you on the ritual day.”

She shrugged. “Only if I make the news. You like them younger anyway.”

“I like you. I have since we first met. I will not force you into anything physical, but we are linked. You stood on the sacrificial stone, dripping in blood. There has never been a more perfect sacrifice.”

“Flattering. Well, I am out of here. Enjoy your interrogation and torture session.” Hari smiled brightly. She patted his hand and returned to her kitchen.

She washed the blood off her hands, went to the change room, and got into her gym clothing. Unwinding at the gym was a habit that she was glad she had acquired.

She walked the block to the gym and swiped her card against the lock. When it opened, she stepped inside and went to her locker. She stowed her wallet, got her water bottle, wraps, and gloves, then filled the bottle up at the cooler and headed to the floor.

It was time to hit something properly.

Chapter Two

Covered in sweat, she moved to a bench, pulled off her gloves, and grabbed her bottle. Hari felt better.

Lorry came in and settled near her. “So, the governor?”

“Yup. Five years ago, I stood in his ballroom covered in blood. Today, he showed up at the bar because I hit a vampire with a frying pan.” More water went down her throat.

“Was that a smart idea?”

“They were going to eat Cinnamon. The girls don’t call me unless they have to. When they do, I bring the pan.”

He smiled. “And get us on the line.”

“Yup. The manager doesn’t hesitate anymore.”

The half-elf smiled. “Which is good. We are much more effective if we are actually there.”

“Yeah. That was my point.”

Lorry nodded. “So, now, why is the governor sniffing after you? He doesn’t do that. He never does that.”

She chuckled. “Once upon a time, he chose me, but I was in rough shape and left before anything could be finalized. Then he retreated, and the lawsuits started.”

“Right. So, it’s over?”

She grinned. “Yeah. Now I can get a little of my own back.”

“That isn’t a good look. Does the governor know you are doing it?”

---