Page 5 of Taming the Wicked Wolf

“Ibegyour pardon.”

“You look like you couldn’t be more than, what? Late 20s. Are those combat boots? Why are you wearing a henley? You’re supposed to be from the demon realm.” She sputters out, flailing a hand in my direction, though I notice the way her gaze lingers on my shoulders, my chest and, oh, my hands.

I have to admit she’s fairly attractive.

Deep chocolate brown hair that falls over her shoulders and across her chest in gentle waves. Smooth tanned skin blessed by a sun goddess and bright and expressive red-brown eyes that could spark a flame at any minute, likely one of her innate powers, if what I am sensing is correct. And her body, ample hips and thighs with the calves of an Amazon, adapted to her short frame. From the looks of it, she barely reaches my shoulders.

Though her power is one of the most enticing aspects of her. Access to magic like hers would be a pretty prize indeed, andcould help me secure my place in my father’s court. I just have to be a bit more calculated in my approach.

“I am 237.” I say with a smile, “I assume most of your research has come from those books and not from the mouths of actual demons, or you would know half-demons can pass through the veil, a sort of dual citizenship, as it were. I’ve lived many years in your realm and I must say, I am quite attached to your style of clothing. One does tire of wearing suits all the time.”

Her chest heaves as she watches me, “Are you still able to make a deal?”

“What is your name, little witch?”

“Emilia.”

“Yes, Emilia, I have made many deals, and I would be happy to make one with you.”

She furrows her brows, her eyes flitting down over my body with a sneer. Okay, maybe I am laying it on a little thick.

“I need a bodyguard.” She says, “My soul is yours in return.”

“I was fully ready to barter with you, Emilia, why do you wish to give up your soul so freely?”

A shadow crosses her face, and she looks down, as to gather herself, “What’s the use of a soul if you’re doomed to live your life in fear?”

I hum my understanding.

“I have one request.”

“As you should.” I incline my head.

She holds up her wrist, and I notice the gold bracelet there with a single purple gemstone set in the center, “If you accept, part of the deal is that we will be bound by magic. So that you will know if and when I need help.”

I don’t see any other jewelry lying around, which can only mean one thing. A collar. While I am courting the witch andher powers, my own magic will be dampened and I will be, depending on her strength, submissive to her command.

“Is that really necessary?” Not that it’s an immediate no. How much trouble could a witch be in that she would require demonic protection in this day and age?

We haven’t overrun the human realm in hundreds of years, Hells, now most demons are more interested in staying here permanently. A few good friends of mine even have lives and families here.

“It’s my one condition, for my safety and the safety of others.”

I can’t fault her for that. As much as I wish to appeal to her, she has no reason to trust me and she is literally offering her soul for the simple task of protecting her.

“Fine. I accept your terms.”

I breathe and draw out a claw, raking it across my palm and holding out as an offering.

“Really?” Emilia stares at it with disgust.

“For your added security.”

She eyes me, then sets the book on the table behind her and crosses to the edge of the circle, placing her hand in mine.

I feel a jolt of power as our blood mingles, and the main ritual circle fades, sealing the deal.

“What the hell?” She yelps, pulling her hand away and staring down at it.

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