Page 92 of Dark Captivation

Malek and my eyes met. He handed the microphone back to the vocalist.

Malek sifted through the guests, splitting the room in two to get to me.

“I’ve been looking everywhere for you. Did you see the show? Did you like it?” His eye contact was long and unwavering.

“It was jaw dropping! I’ve never seen anything like it. I mean, they must have been practicing for months.”

“Years. They’re professionals. The state sponsors all the most talented artists and athletes.” He arched his back proudly.

“Oh, King Malek! It’s me Vanessa. It’s nice to see you again.” Vanessa gushed, drooling over Malek like he was a deli platter.

“Hello. I hope you’re enjoying the party.” Malek barely spared her a glance and didn’t wait for her reply before taking my hand and escorting me over to the game baskets.

Vanessa glared murderously at me. I didn’t mind. It was obvious she wanted Malek. This room was probably filled with girls who wanted him.

Uniformed men rested five baskets near the stage. They were stocked with everything from darts and cards, to green apples, dominoes and a bunch of other random things.

“What are all of these things?” I removed an apple from the basket.

“These are traditional games dating back to our time in the underworld, modified to suit earth sensibilities of course.”

“By that, I assume you mean there’s no blood or sacrifices involved?” I asked.

He turned to me, dazed. “You’re far wiser than your years.”

Those interested in playing, downed their drinks and shuffled closer to the baskets.

“As is customary, we’ll start with the rose apples,” Malek announced for all to hear, and the bartenders sprung into action.

They set twenty silver pans down near the baskets, filling each pan with red wine. Ten apples were tossed into the wine, and we were instructed to bob for them. First to get all ten wins.

So, basically, it was bobbing for apples using alcohol instead of water.

Malek kneeled in front of one of the pans. I took the spot on his right. Vanessa shoved another girl out of the way, planting herself next to Malek on his left. Various other guests got in formation behind the other pans.

Someone announced for us to start and we began bobbing.

I’d only gotten one apple out when someone rang a bell, declaring Malek the winner. In under a minute, he managed to eat all 10 apples and drink half the wine.

Clearly, I’d misunderstood the point of the game, still there was no way I could have out eaten Malek even if I hadn’t.

“You're so talented, my King!” Vanessa said in an exaggerated tone, her chest now so soaked with wine, her breasts were now almost entirely on display, one of her nipples were even peeking out.

“Oh, pardon me, my King.” She blushed, faking embarrassment as she tucked her goodies away.

“How many did you get, Sunny?” Malek asked, completely ignoring Vanessa.

“Only one this time. But I managed to drink most of the wine, mostly by accident though.” I hiccupped.

“Then you’re the real winner.” He nestled his hand in my hair, combing his fingers through it.

He rose to his feet, helping me to mine.

A bartender congratulated him, handing him a small bottle of rum crème as a prize for winning the game. Malek thanked him and gave it to me.

An older demon who appeared to know Malek well patted him on the back. His words slurred like he’d had too much to drink as he told Malek about something funny that happened to him a few days ago.

“Only one rose apple?” Vanessa laughed scornfully, “Elementary school children could do at least three. Are all wolves as impressive as you?”

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