Page 12 of Demon's Prey

“Yes,” I reply without hesitation.

He tilts his head back and laughs.

“Oh, you are delightful. A verdant leaf, uncurling in the first lurid teases of spring. Trembling in the wind, begging to be plucked and consumed by one who…hungers.”

I swallow hard, my mouth suddenly dry.

"Um, save the poetry for someone who cares. I just want to find my sister. Now, tell me what... what kind of contract?"

He doesn't answer immediately, his crimson gaze roaming over me. I feel exposed, vulnerable under his scrutiny. My mind races, imagining what he might want. My soul? It's the obvious choice, isn't it? That's what demons always want in the stories.

But then my eyes drift to his muscular form, and a different possibility presents itself. My body? The thought sends an unexpected thrill through me. What would a demon lover be like? Rough? Gentle? Would he have inhuman stamina?

I feel my cheeks flush hot at the direction my thoughts have taken. This is madness. He's a demon. I shouldn't be thinking about him like this.

And yet... I can't seem to stop. My imagination runs wild with possibilities. Would he use those sharp teeth on my skin? Would his touch burn like hellfire?

I realize I'm staring and quickly avert my gaze, but not before I catch the knowing smirk on Dazirus's face. He knows exactly what I'm thinking, doesn't he?

"Well, little human?" he purrs. "Shall we discuss terms?"

I can only nod, not trusting my voice. Whatever he wants, whatever this contract entails, I know I'll agree to it. For Claudia. For answers.

And maybe, just maybe, for the chance to explore these new, forbidden desires.

6

DAZIRUS

Icircle Narina, my eyes drinking in every detail. Her scent - fear, determination, and something uniquely human - intoxicates me. Fascinating creature.

"A contract," I intone, watching her reaction. "Nothing comes free in this realm, little human."

Her eyes flash. Defiance. Desperation. Delicious.

"Yes, so you’ve said. But You’ve been kind of sketchy on terms, Lord Dazirus.”

“Oh please, let’s not be so formal. You may call me Dazirus.”

“Um, okay. So, what’s the deal? Do you want my…” her voice trails off, and she licks her lips.

Narina struggles to speak for several seconds. I wait patiently, like a noiseless spider.

“Do you want my s-soul?" she asks, voice trembling.

I smirk.

"Oh, I don’t think we need to agree to a contract with such extreme terms."

She blanches. Good. Let her squirm.

Circling closer, I drink in her tension. She's coiled tight, ready to spring. But where? To fight? To flee? Oh, the possibilities.

"I'll help you find your sister," I offer, voice silky smooth. "In exchange for... your service."

Her brow furrows. Confusion. Suspicion. Smart girl.

"Service?" she echoes. I can see it in her eyes. “Service can mean a lot of different things.”

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