Page 41 of Primal God

She laughs again and then rushes off.

“Really, it’s okay. It was like twenty bucks. No big deal.”

He pulls out two twenties and hands them to me. Part of me wants to walk away, but I know that won’t go over very well, soI take the money, tucking it into my pocket. I’ll just use it to buy ice cream next week.

“How did the children do today?”

I smile. “Excellent. As you heard, Clara was invited to a sleepover. Diego was invited, too, but I’m going to do a bit of digging to make sure he knows the boy.”

Dr. Santos says, “It’s fine. I know the family.” At my look, he says, “Jessica’s mother reached out to me earlier today.”

I hate that I feel…dismissed.

The smile on my face feels forced. “Well, that’s good. I’m sure the twins will be excited to go.” I take a step away from him. “Have a good night, Dr. Santos.”

With that, I walk away, hating that I feel so…useless.

9

Dimitri

Lilith walks away from me, and I can taste her sadness in the air.

Fucking hell.

What did I say?

I call after her, “Ms. Wolfe, please bring the children to my study at seven. I’d like to spend some time with them before I have to go out.”

She glances over her shoulder, only showing part of her face. “Of course, Dr. Santos.”

Fuck. Why do I want to grab her and spin her so she’s facing me?

I spin, going to my study, where I slam the door behind me. I need a drink, and not just because of what just happened with Lilith.

Today was a shit day at work, but that’s not what’s got me on edge, either. No, it’s what’s happening next Saturday. My induction ceremony to the Defiant God Brotherhood, where I become an Elite Member. As if I’ve summoned someone withties to the Brotherhood, my phone buzzes as a text comes through.

Jackie

How are you doing, friend?

I smile and type out my reply.

You must be a mind reader.

Because you were thinking of me or because you’re thinking about the Brotherhood.

Wait. Don’t answer that.

The answer is always the Brotherhood.

My ceremony is next weekend.

It is? Congratulations, my friend!

Thank you, though I’m not sure it’s something to celebrate.

It is! Don’t make me come over to remind you that this is a big deal!

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