Page 40 of Twisted Thorns

The rush to this point has me feeling scattered, my focus torn as my own demon scratches under my skin, craving something to gnaw on. I can't help but wonder if this restlessness has something to do with Lina. She crawled under my skin and made herself at home, right next to my monster.

The sauce is simmering when a knock on my door sounds.

I open my door to find Avalina in a slinky red dress that molds to her curves and leaves nothing to the imagination. Not that I need to imagine any inch of her at this part. I've got her mapped like a constellation across my heart.

I arch an eyebrow her way. "We're staying in, remember?"

"I know. I just thought I'd wear something different for a change. I'm always in jeans at the library."

She walks towards my kitchen, and I don't try to hide the smile slowly bleeding across my face. Lina thinks she is being clever, but with the mood I'm in, she's going to get more than she bargained for.

Sometimes Lina forgets what I am, a monster that doesn't mind playing with their food first.

She wants to play? Fine. I'll even let her think she's winning, at least for now.

I watch her saunter towards the sauce bubbling on the stove, and she dips a wooden spoon in the mixture as red as her dress before bringing it to her lips to taste. I'm impressed at my ability to keep my face a neutral mask as she moans at the taste.

My hands itch to give her something else to taste, but I clear my throat and adjust my pants before walking behind her to grab the spoon, lifting it to my own lips to taste as I press my hardness against the swell of her ass.

I don't miss the way she bites her bottom lip.

"Hmm, needs more salt."

I cage Lina in my arms as I reach to the counter for the salt before slowly stirring the sauce and turning off the burner.

Trailing a hand down her arm, I kiss the spot under her ear. "It's ready. Go sit down and I'll bring it to you."

She looks up at me, suspicion flashing in her eyes at my tone, but moves to do as I ask.

I almost regret the command, as once she sits down, the red silk rides even higher up her creamy thighs.

I've interrogated countless people, slowly tortured them until they gave me the answers I sought. I've honed my mind and body into lethal precision because my life demanded it of me.

But all of that threatens to unravel as I eye Lina from the kitchen, plating her dinner while my inner demon roars to break free and devour her instead.

Placing dinner on the table, I'm mindful to keep my carefully cultivated smirk on my face, lounging back in the chair like I'm in no rush.

I've done this before, this waiting game. But normally I'm also not being tortured by it.

"How was work?" I ask.

"It was good. We have a few more authors on the schedule for book tour stops and we're going to coordinate with the local bookstore for some midnight release parties."

"Sounds like your plan to get more buzz and patrons is working. Sarah must be excited."

"She is. She even finally agreed to let me take over the social media accounts, which I think will help reach a whole new audience."

"I'm really proud of you, Lina."

She dips her head down, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear before toying with her necklace. My necklace. The one I gave her.

Fidgeting, she glances up at me through her lashes. "Thank you, Kieran."

I've seen this woman lead an entire classroom of children through the library with ease, but she still gets nervous when I compliment her. I'll just have to do it more.

Reaching across the table, I lightly brush my hand across hers, watching the shiver that she can't suppress.

My entire life I've sought more thieves and criminals to punish, eager to let my beast out of its cage.

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