Page 23 of A Sin So Pure

What is it that Ireallywant from Nora? I could list a million specific things, but it can all be encompassed in one word: more.

It’s that simple.

But at the same time, it’s too fucking complicated.

We’re both the leaders of our Houses and that comes with responsibilities that willalwayscomplicate relationships—let alone those with someone from another House.

And I know Nora well enough to understand that her House comes first. Herfamilycomes first.

I could be her family too…

My head falls into my hands, and I let loose a frustrated groan. I just need to get through today. Then I can talk to Nora and get it all out there so there are no secrets.

My thoughts drift back to the tonic.

Shit. I have to deal with that too.

I don’t know how long I sit there, palms squishing my cheeks and nails digging divots into my forehead, before a powerful presence slithers into the bar. The hair on my arms stands on end.

“Rough morning?”

The Unseelie King’s voice is sensual without trying to be—a rich and melodic siren’s call.

It makes me squirm. And not in a good way.

He had to show up today, didn’t he?

I silently curse the Gods for their terrible timing.

I steel my shoulders as I twist in my seat, tossing the smirking bastard a glare.

The last black tendrils of shadow dissipate around his feet, the only visual sign of his magic fading into the ether. He’s pulled it back, but his power still radiates off him in waves. His magic is as deeply rooted as the eldest tree in Faerie and as vast as the ocean.

Silas casually leans against the bar, legs crossed, hands tucked in his fitted suit’s pants pockets. His white hair is cropped short on the sides, the top longer and pushed back from his forehead—though a stray piece hangs loose and brushes the top of his brows. He raises those brows, patiently waiting for a greeting.

“Your cousins keep embarrassing themselves in my bar,” I say in lieu of a hello.

He pulls a hand from his pockets to wave in the air. “They’re idiots.”

I have to hold back my eye roll.

Clearing my throat, I ask, “What can I do for you, Your Majesty?”

Silas pushes off the bar, stalking towards me. Lean muscles carry him silently across the space between us.

“It’s been a couple of months. I figured it was time for a check in on our favorite new addition to the pack, given the first meeting of the last quarter is tonight,” he says. His lips purse. “I guess she isn’t considered new anymore, is she? One year already under her belt as of last night.”

My stomach drops.

When Nora first took over House Pride, Silas asked me to spy on her. I refused at first. But then he threatened Leo, and I found myself stuck.

I tried to feed him common information, things anyone could find out if they dug deep enough. But Silas has an empath’s instinct, and he’s far from stupid. He knows when I hold back and swiftly reminds me of what’s at stake. Not that I’ve ever had anything of note to share. Until today.

Silas drops into the chair across from me.

He took the throne at only eighteen, crowned fifty years ago after his parents were killed at the Winter Solstice celebrationbetween the Faerie Courts. He’s ruled with cruel precision ever since.

“So…” He smiles, sharp and cold. “Tell me what’s new.”

---