Page 86 of Evil Hearts

“Yeah. Never would have guessed that one.”

We leave the diner, and I try to trick my brain into believing that I’m out on a first date and not trapped in Hell. I climb onto the back of his flaming motorcycle, thankful that the flamesdon’t hurt me and wrap my arms around Ruthless like I’ve done it a million times.

“Hold on tight.”

I tighten my grip on him, and we roar through the city. The growl of the engine rumbles, vibrating the seat as I take in the sights. We could just as easily be in New York City. We pass through a section that resembles Times Square. Billboards for movies and clothing lines flash. The Demon Who Loved Me.

You have movies?

I heard the book was better.

Be so for real.

What? You think we sit around all day stealing souls and plotting evil?

Don’t you?

Not always. Those serving conscription as reapers collect souls. I served my time. I was serving it when I first met you.

When did we first meet?

The night you failed to take your life.

Tell me about this clubhouse.

I don’t want to think about how I got myself into this mess.

We conversate through our minds as we ride. I guess there could be worse things. He tells me about his club that mostly is made up of men or demons that he was conscripted to Hell’s Army of Reapers with. Some of them are married with children while others are single. The club has a code, which sounds strange for demons. Hell isn’t lawless. The club trades in magic and secrets. All members have their own powers and specialties.

I’m trying to wrap my mind around everything he’s telling me and read between the lines of what he’s not sharing.

Some Demons can cross into the mortal world, and I wonder if I’ll ever be able to go back.

Before we walk in here, I need you to promise you won’t stare.

What do you mean? Why would I stare?

He cups my face between his hands like he did earlier, pressing his forehead to mine. His gaze lands on my lips and I wonder if he’s going to kiss me, but more than that, why do I want him to? My mind flashes with the image of a Minotaur.

Ruthless’s breath fans across my lips as he exhales slowly and pulls away as if the act itself is painful.

Aster can be sensitive about his looks.

Noted.

Chapter Seven

The Clubhouse isbehind a tow truck garage located on the outskirts of the City of Bones.

A horned skull with the club’s name is painted on the side of the black brick garage in orange, with flames around it. The three-story block building behind it, with two rows of motorcycles parked out front, is our destination.

“When we get inside, there is something I have to do. You won’t like it, but hopefully you’ll enjoy it.”

“That’s not helping.”

“Don’t be nervous.”

“I don’t know what I’m walking into. I don’t even know if I can truly trust you.”

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