Page 9 of The Daughters of Nyx

Dark, chocolate brown hair shone beneath the crappy, stark-white lights, and her eyes were doe-like, wide and a deep brown that might hide hints of amber if under the sun. Red blossomed along her cheeks and down her neck as her gaze flickered over all of us before resting on Archer. Even from this distance, I could hear the sudden acceleration of her heart.

The scents of the team changed, too. Almost like they were being re-shaped, and I had no fucking clue how—or why.

Grey cleared her throat first and stepped around us. As she approached the desk, her shoulders tensed beneath the heavy black cloak she was wearing, designed to protect her from the dying sun. Kingsley and Archer followed close behind as I took up the rear.

I tightened my grip on my duffel as I approached Grey’s side. The eyes of the receptionist flickered between all of us, though mostly straying to Archer as he leaned forward over the desk.

“Well, hello again,” he purred, and all heads snapped in his direction. “I never thought we’d see each other again after our romantic encounter on the street.”

The receptionist—IVY,her name tag read—swallowed hard and released a flustered laugh as she looked down at the screen of her computer. “Welcome to theCamilla,” she said, ignoring Archer.

Smart girl.

“Do you have a reservation?” Her eyes snapped up to Grey’s, who had the paperwork andcompany-issuedcredit card already in hand.

“Yes, you’ll find it underMaeve Grey.” Grey’s voice was tight as she handed over the credit card.

I realised then the scent was coming fromher.

Ivy didn’tlooklike a mage, and her scent wasn’t shifter, either. Based on the way all of our scents had shifted, I’d guess siren or succubus, but you wouldn’t find them living mortal lives in the middle of cities.

They definitely didn’t work as receptionists in hotels.

“I’m Rowan,” Archer said, sticking out his hand for the receptionist to shake. She did so hesitantly before pulling her hand into her chest. “The mean looking one is—”

“Enough,” I growled, looking over at the annoying red-head. “Seriously, Archer.”

When I looked back at the girl, her wide eyes were on me. This close, I could make out the smattering of freckles

that lined the bridge of her nose. The burgundy, satin blouse strained against her chest, accentuating the curves of her body.

As I breathed in, I caught the sweet, tangy scent of desire fromher.

I wonder what she’d feel like. The thought crossed my mind, and my cock hardened in my jeans in response.

That was the last thing I needed. I pushed away from the desk and started for the settees, braving the sickly scent to calm whatever hadarisenin response to Ivy.

“Don’t mind him,” I heard Kingsley say, voice soft. “We’re dealing with some serious jetlag.”

I forced myself to breathe shallowly as I slumped against the worn velvet.

“It’s alright,” she replied, keeping her voice bright, but I could hear the strain in each word. “What brings you to Forthampton?”

“Business,” Grey replied. “Is everything in order?”

“Yes, absolutely.” The receptionist typed away on the keyboard, quick and efficient. “I’ll just have you sign this waiver and cleaning fee, then you’re welcome to head up to your rooms!”

Kingsley pulled away from the desk to show off two key cards. I stood and strode over to take one from his hand.

“Finally,” I muttered. A headache formed at my temple, and the receptionist looked up from her paperwork quickly. Her scent—and her desire—were damn near overpowering, and I needed to get away before I snapped.

For whatever reason, the idea of hurting her further made the wolf angry.

Key card in hand, I left the boss and others behind as I escaped to our rooms.

~

“So, what the fuck was that about?” I asked as the door to the room snapped shut.

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