Page 85 of My Salvation

“They are the highlight of my day, warrior. Let this humble old man enjoy the presence of such beauty,” Peter drawled.

Cas blushed prettily at the baker's words.

In his chest, he felt his bird stir unhappily. He placed a hand on his chest, surprised.

Cas turned to him. “Are you okay?”

“Bird is being crotchety.”

She kissed his chest. “After we drop off Meryn’s treat, we’ll head home, okay?” she asked, giving him a smoldering look.

“Will I be able to see tomorrow?”

“Definitely not.”

“Thank the gods,” he whispered.

Peter winked at them and passed them their treats. “Have a good night.”

Shaking his head, Priest led his mate to Baba’s.

*****

“I’m surprised you went for the teal?” she said, looking back at Priest.

He shrugged. “I like all shades of blue.”

Baba had been a delight to meet. The older woman listened to what she had to say about certain colors and made quite a few suggestions on unobtrusive ways to add colors to their living areas.

Cas was feeling happier than she had in a while. She wasn’t sure how much of it was the brownie she had or the relief over not laying an egg, but she was sure she was floating down the street.

“Soon,” Priest murmured against the side of her neck, sending shivers down her spine.

“Not soon enough.”

Priest waved to the guards at the palace doors, and they made their way down the hallway to the queen’s chambers.

Her mate knocked and waited. Moments later, a worried-looking Darian opened the door. Frowning, he looked at him, then at her. “How did you know something was wrong?”

Priest’s hand went to his sidearm, and she looked past the prince to see everyone sitting at the table looking at Meryn.

Brennus looked over. “Cassandra, thank the gods you’re here.”

She and Priest hurried inside, and Darian quickly closed the door behind them.

Cas took one look at Meryn and inhaled. “Oh no.”

Aiden held one of her hands, looking frantic. “What’s wrong with her?”

Outwardly Meryn was staring straight ahead, blinking every so often, yet wasn’t acknowledging they had entered the room.

Cas stared at her aura. “It’s entirely black.”

“What if we poured salt down her throat?” Izzy suggested.

Ryuu had both hands on her shoulders. “It’s like something is blocking me from getting to her.” He pointed to her bracelet, which was glowing light green. “I have no idea if it’s working.”

“Of course, it’s working,” a deep voice said from the far side of the room. Moments later Abraxas walked in, frowning forebodingly. “The demon will not be able to sway her heart.”

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