Page 63 of Perfectly Charmed Pixie

“However, a pixie bond is something else entirely. That is a purely magical creation. The magic wanted that bond, and it doesn’t wish to release it. In that situation, forcing magic to go against its nature would be…difficult.”

“But not impossible.”

“No, I’m afraid not.” I released a weighty sigh. “I just can’t figure out why anyone would want to do something like that. It’s beyond cruel, and besides that, it’s pointless.”

That was something I just couldn’t get out of my head. Thewhyof it. Overall, pixies were harmless. Their bonds were gifts, especially home-and-hearth pixies.

Hands still clasped behind his back, Ray’s head tilted down, his voice hushed. “It is fortunate you do not understand the why, Warlock Kines. It speaks positively regarding your character. Unfortunately, assuming the individual who made the request is who we both believe him to be, the why is painfully clear. What is also clear is that this individual’s obsession has overcome his self-preservation instincts.”

A shiver ran down my spine. I did not want to be on the wrong end of a pissed-off fairy.

Clearing my throat, I asked, “So, is what I told you enough to act on?”

“Unfortunately, no. At least not directly. However, it allows me to focus my resources. Now that I understand the latest method behind the madness, I can better monitor the situation and hopefully intercept the culprit. With that said, although it is doubtful, should you be approached by this same individual again, perhaps you should show a bit more…interest.”

“More interest? But… Ah… A trap.” My blackened fingers danced along the counter. “I wish I would have thought of that.” I’d been so appalled there’d been little room left for rational thought.

“No reason it should have come to mind.” Ray didn’t find my lack of forethought offensive. “As I said, it is doubtful he will come here again, but on the off chance that is not the case, then it would be in everyone’s best interest if you were a little more accepting of their offer. Should that happen, contact me immediately.”

“Of course.” I wasn’t crazy enough to try to take on something like that alone.

“Good. Thank you for relaying the information. I realize that warlocks value their clients’ privacy and it may not have been an easy decision.”

“You’re right. I don’t make disclosing requests a habit, even when it’s not a commission I’m willing to take. But this seemed…” I shrugged, unable to put into words what this request seemed like.

Ray offered a single nod, his gaze uncomfortably latched onto me. Only, it wasn’t as if he were looking at me, more like through me or, perhaps, around me.

Silence stretched, making me uncomfortable. “Is there anything else I can do for you or…?”

“It’s a dangerous game you are playing, Warlock Kines,” Ray flatly stated. “A warlock of your caliber should know better.”

My parted lips closed with a click of teeth. “I’m not sure I understand what you’re referring to.”

I could have sworn Ray smirked, although, with a fairy, it was difficult to tell. “You understand very well. Your brownie ward undoubtedly understands as well. I am certain Georgiana Gillian’s daughter is more than capable of reprimanding your foolishness. One’s life force is a precious gift. Giving it away is an offense to the Gaia you pray to.”

I bristled. “What is even more of an offense is not doing whatever one must to keep their one and only healthy, happy, and safe.” I rubbed Georgiana’s ring. I couldn’t feel the crimson lines spiderwebbing across the onyx surface, but I could easily see them in my mind’s eye.

“I see.” Ray inclined his head. “Apologies. Fairies may not have an equivalent, but we do understand that such bonds are important to other species and often result in unwise decisions.”

“Can’t argue there.”

The edge of Ray’s lips twisted up, and amusement danced in his eyes. “Tell me, young warlock, is it worth it?”

“Without a doubt,” I quickly answered, not wasting a moment on thought.

* * *

“Fairies give me the willies.” Parsnip leaned over my workbench, twisting an amethyst crystal between his fingers. “I suppose that isn’t fair, but it’s how I feel.”

“Don’t worry. It’s the way most species feel.” I twisted another thread of magic, layering it on top of the last one I’d set in place. This charm was a fever-breaker. About 70 to 75 percent of my business was human-based. If they were a healthier species, I’d be out of a job.

“Yeah, I know.” Parsnip’s wings fluttered, filling the air with a fine sheen of aqua. “Soren’s not bad, but I don’t think he helps me out of the goodness of his fairy heart. He’s a lawyer, and I pay him plenty for his services.”

“Sounds about right.” I tried to focus but found it increasingly difficult, given Parsnip’s proximity.

My one and only looked good. He sounded so much better than the last time I’d seen him. When he’d called earlier, asking if he could spend the night, I hadn’t hesitated and told him to come immediately. When I told Byx, she decided an impromptu visit with an auntie was a prime decision.

“Have you heard any more from Lance?” The name tasted like ash on my tongue.

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