Page 21 of Demon's Dark Love

“Meetings?” She scoffs, crossing her arms. “Is that what we’re calling them now?”

I shrug. “Sounds more official. Besides, it’s not like we can just waltz through the castle talking about forbidden artifacts.”

“Fair point.” She sighs, rubbing her temples. “So, what’s your plan?”

“We find the artifact,” I reply, stepping closer. “And we get the fuck out of here.”

“Just like that?” Her skepticism is palpable, but I can see the flicker of hope in her eyes.

“Just like that,” I confirm, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "There’s a hidden chamber in the east wing. I think that’s where it’s kept.”

“How do you know?”

I tap my temple. “Demonic intuition.”

She rolls her eyes but smiles.

I want to kiss her again. I feel a need for her like hunger, but I can't risk the castle reacting again. Reluctantly I pull away.

"I'll see you soon."

That evening at dinner my mother announces a grand ball. The gathered demons murmur in anticipation.

“A grand ball to celebrate our lineage,” my mother declares, her golden eyes scanning the room. “And to reveal my son’s progress.”

Progress? That’s a loaded term coming from her. I glance at Lily, who’s standing near the entrance, her expression carefully neutral. But I can see the flicker of fear in her eyes.

“Enoch,” she calls, and all eyes turn to me. “You’ll be the guest of honor.”

I bow low, pretending to be honored, my mind racing. She’s up to something. Something that involves me—and likely, Lily.

As the crowd disperses, I make my way to Lily, who’s now busying herself with a tray of drinks.

“She’s planning something,” I say, my voice low. “And it’s not good.”

“What do you think she’ll do?” Lily asks, her voice barely a whisper.

“I don’t know,” I admit, frustration boiling under my skin. “But we need to be ready for anything.”

“She mentioned your ‘progress,’” she says, looking at me with concern. “What does that mean?”

“It means she’s going to try and prove I’m still the perfect demon son she’s always wanted,” I reply, bitterness seeping into my voice. “And if that means exposing my...weaknesses, she’ll do it.”

“Your weaknesses?” Lily’s eyes widen. “You mean me?”

“Yes, maybe. I don't know,” I say, trying to appear like I'm not speaking to the human filing the glasses. “And I won’t let her.”

“Maybe we should have a plan just in case,” she says, determination hardening her features.

"Meet me later," I murmur. "Usual place."

I move away, though every time I leave Lily it’s getting harder.

The torches flicker as we slip into the hidden passage later, the damp stone walls pressing close around us. Lily’s hand is warm in mine, a small comfort against the chill. I lead her to a secluded alcove, away from prying eyes and ears.

“What do you think it’s like out there?” she asks, leaning against the wall. Her eyes are bright, curious.

“Out where?”

---