Page 8 of Ashes to Ashes

Leviathan’s eyes narrowed at Belial’s callous words as he stepped further into the room, his gaze never leaving the woman. “And what purpose does she serve in your collection?” he asked, trying to keep his voice neutral.

“Oh, she serves many purposes,” Belial replied with a wicked smile. “But for now, she is simply my entertainment.”

The woman looked up at them with fear and hatred in her eyes before quickly averting her gaze again.

“How long have you had her?” Leviathan asked, ignoring Belial’s cruel words.

“Just a few weeks,” Belial answered nonchalantly. “But I can tell she will be a valuable addition to my collection.”

Leviathan clenched his jaw tightly as he fought down the urge to lunge at Belial and rip him apart for his callous treatment of this woman. The premise of defending her made no sense to him, but it was like a calling from his blood.

“Well then,” Leviathan said through gritted teeth. “If she’s so special, I demand an audience with her.”

The woman’s gasp was audible, and she did not have the wherewithal to look away. No, her ice blue eyes stared at Leviathan with something unknown in their depths.

“Out of the question.”

Leviathan’s eyes blazed with fury as he stared down at Belial, his grip on the demon’s shirt tightening. “Out of the question?” he hissed, his wings unfurling with lightning speed as he landed on the demon’s desk.

Belial remained calm, even in the face of Leviathan’s enraged display. “She is my contract,” he said coolly. “I will not allow anyone to interfere with my possessions.”

“Your possessions?” Leviathan scoffed, his wings ruffling in agitation. “You and everything in this house belong to me.” Leviathan ran a sharp talon over Belial’s face drawing out the inky black ichor. “You’ll do well to remember that.”

The room fell silent for a moment as both demons glared at each other, their animosity simmering just below the surface. Belial’s color had paled slightly, and the distinct smell of fear came from his pores, but for his part, he kept his face impassive.

Finally, Leviathan broke the silence. “Let’s try this again,” he declared firmly. “I demand time with her.”

Belial chuckled darkly before standing up from his chair. “Very well,” he said smoothly. “You may have your audience.” He gestured toward the woman who was still standing silently in the corner of the room.

Leviathan stepped off of Belial’s desk and approached her cautiously. She flinched away from him but didn’t run or try to defend herself.

“Hello,” Leviathan said gently, trying to appear non-threatening, if he wanted this human’s envy, he couldn’t be the demon.

She looked up at him through wary eyes before speaking for the first time since they entered the room. “Why are you here?” she asked, her voice shaking with fear.

“I am here to invite you and your bullheaded owner to a ball. But first, we shall get to know one another,” He extended his hand and watched as her eyes focused on his wings. “Come,” Leviathan snatched her hand when she did not take it.

It made no sense, but this human woman appealed to him, called out to him.

And you will find out why.

CHAPTER 5

Leviathan watched the woman intently, unable to shake the way he was drawn to her.

Her strikingly beautiful face held captivating features that were like no other he’d seen in his realm. Long red hair flowed in gentle waves down her back, framing porcelain skin that looked soft to the touch, full lips painted a deep shade of red that matched her hair. Her eyes were what caught his attention the most. They were ice blue almost white, hinting at an inner strength he couldn’t ignore. He wanted to know more about this intriguing creature who seemed indifferent to the luxuries surrounding them.

A plain ring threaded around a thin gold chain dangled from her neck.

Those piercing eyes darted back and forth, never settling on Leviathan.

“I assure you, you are safe from him while in my presence.” He paused, deciding it would be best not to tell the curious female who he was.The better to ascertain how she truly feels and acts.

“I don’t feel there is anywhere safe here.”

The words were the first she’d spoken and her voice held a quality to it that both soothed his nerves and sounded like that of an angelic chorus.

His small chuckle set her shoulders straight with tension. Belial was known for damaging those he won in a contract. Leviathan would have to learn what this human envied so much in her life that she gave it up.

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