Page 12 of The Monster's Mate

Half-uncle?

Cyril and Eldritch have different mothers, but Eldritch is technically the first born. If he’d been a dragon, he would have been heir to the throne, no matter who his mother was.

I have no way of verifying it, but my instincts are convinced Cyril ordered Eldritch to the human realm to find his heir.

If not Cyril, then their father was behind the command.

My head tilts as my eyes narrow on Malice. “What did you do to me?”

I’m usually excellent at shielding my thoughts.

“Me?” He chuckles. “Nothing. Silence is the one with the gift for soothing beasts.”

It reminds me I have no idea how I got here to begin with.

I vaguely remember climbing into bed, then I was in that cell in the cave, and now we’re back in my living room.

Dealing with demons is always a mindfuck.

Athos pats my shoulder. “Doesn’t it feel better now that everything is out in the open?”

“If they’re going to come for Veryn, and possibly Charity, you should understand the value of having an army at your side.” Malice raises an eyebrow.

I do, but no one in this fucking town knows how to keep their mouth shut. The last thing Charity needs is something else to worry about. There’s no reason she needs to lose sleep overpossibilities, when I’m taking care of it. The poor woman barely gets any rest as it is.

“You’re not the only one who cares for them,” Malice repeats needlessly.

“He’s right,” Athos agrees. “I would get down on my hands and knees to beg Wraith and Knight to help if the need arose.”

“My cluster is powerful,” Malice says, sounding quite smug. “But you’re overlooking possibly the greatest weapon we’d have on our side. Aline may have no desire to return to Faere, but she would for Charity. Her magic is more powerful there than it is in the human realm.”

I scoff, swiping a hand over my face. “I know she’s your mate, and I’m not saying Aline’s magic isn’t dangerous, but you really think she’s a bigger threat than a sin eater and a reaper?”

“I know she is,” Malice says simply. “I’ve watched her magic in action, just like I’ve seen Wraith and Knight reap. They have limits and rules the universe has imposed, while Aline will always be able to act on the side of those who’ve been wronged.”

“I think you’re overestimating your mate.” I sigh, shaking my head.

It’s a running theme.

Every male I know turns to a blubbering pile of goo when they find their fated mate.

“Sometimes, I’m surprised how little attention others pay.” Malice hums. “Other times, I’m grateful for it. Aline was the universe’s attempt to restore balance to Faere. Only, those in power were too afraid of her gifts to allow her to enact her destiny.” He shrugs. “I’m sure the powers that be will try again at some point. But, really, none of you have given any thought to the fact that she can resurrect the dead? Which, by the way, is a gift far beyond Wraith’s capabilities. Aline’s magic isbalance. She’s the universe’s great equalizer for the weak and abused. The extent of her power isn’t governed by the same laws as ours. She’s essentially a force of nature.”

Athos bows. “She would have made a magnificent queen.”

“She’s more content living in Haven than she would have been ruling her people,” Malice says. “Now, I suggest the two of you check on your mate.” He turns into a smoky cloud of shadows and promptly disappears.

Athos snatches my hand, and the next thing I know, we’re siphoning.

There are two things I really hate—portals and siphoning.

Motherfucker.

Chapter Six

Charity

The bite from my dreams doesn’t transfer to my skin once I’m awake, and it makes me feel like I lost something monumental.

---