Page 59 of Mayhem and Ember

“This establishment is reservation only.” His judging gaze raked over her form. “And we have a dress code. Yoga pants are not allowed.”

Her hands curled into fists. “I don’t do yoga. Can we sit at the bar?”

“Not unless you have a reservation.”

Her jaw ticked. “It’s five o’clock. Most people don’t go out for dinner before seven, and you’ve got dozens of empty tables.”

He rolled his eyes. “I can’t seat you without a reservation.”

“Can I make a reservation then?”

His mouth tightened, and he blinked at her twice before lowering his gaze to a tablet screen. “We’re booked tonight, but I can get you in next Tuesday.”

She stiffened, and I smiled, imagining her wishing she could jab her dagger into the man’s neck.

Chaos stepped forward, holding Ash’s hand. “The table in the back by the kitchen is free. You’ll seat us there.”

Our indignant host snapped his gaze to my brother, confusion contorting his features for half a second before they smoothed. “No one ever reserves the table in the back by the kitchen. I’ll seat you there. This way.”

Interesting…

He picked up a stack of menus and strode into the seating area. I followed silently, taking in our surroundings. A massive crystal chandelier hung in the center of the room, and widely spaced tables covered in white linen held etched glass goblets and gold chargers. Savory scents of garlic and thyme filled the air, and a server passed by carrying a plate covered with a silver dome.

The host waited as we took our seats and then placed a white napkin on each of our laps. He opened the menus one by one, handing them first to the women and then to us. “Your server will be with you shortly. Bon appetite.”

Ember shook her head, and I could practically see the thoughts racing through her mind. “I want to berate the two of you, but I know that pompous bitch wouldn’t have seated us otherwise.”

Ash shrugged. “Sometimes a little gray is necessary.”

I narrowed my eyes at my brother. “That didn’t look like your normal magic. What did you do?”

“Ash’s power counters mine. She can send it to me through the mark she bears, giving me the ability to control minds rather than scatter them.”

“And they promised not to do it unless it’s absolutely necessary.” Ember’s shoulders slumped. “Which it was in this case.”

Interesting indeed. I wondered how Ember’s power might counter mine. If it meant I could guide people to peaceful resolutions, I’d rather not try.

Our server arrived to fill our goblets with water, and Ember ordered a bottle of wine. “We’re going to be here a while, but don’t worry. We tip well.”

“It’s fine. This table is rarely sat, so I’m happy to serve you.” The woman smiled warmly. “The manager thought it would be a good idea to have a secluded spot for any celebrities who might want to dine in peace.” She tugged on a curtain, isolating us from the rest of the dining room. “But he put it right by the kitchen. Guests get annoyed with all the foot traffic, so the idea flopped. I’ll be right back with your wine.”

“It couldn’t be more perfect for us.” Ember laid her phone on the table as the server walked away. “Miles will be wearing an earpiece. When he gets here, he’s going to call. He’ll leave his phone face down on the table so we can hear everything they say.”

“Impressive.” I nodded my appreciation.

She shrugged. “Sometimes I have good ideas.”

She didn’t give herself enough credit. Ember was a natural leader. She preferred being in the heat of battle, as did I, but she commanded her small army of Veil Keepers with the skill of a general.

She looked at the menu, and her eyes widened as she let out a low whistle. “They’re proud of their food, aren’t they? I’m surprised Miles decided to bring her here.”

“He probably let her choose,” Ash said. “He owes it to her for leading her on.”

“These prices are nearly triple those of our lunch restaurant,” I said. “I assume you have some form of income to afford it?”

“Ember makes bank at Spellbound Axe in tips alone.” Ash sipped her water.

“Not anymore.” Ember sighed. “I got fired.”

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