Page 121 of Kiss of Magic

“It’s bullshit. It’s been months. He should just let it go.”

Dani sighed.

“Just promise you won’t get angry and do something stupid.”

“I’m going to wait right here. And if you’re not back soon, I’m coming in to get you.”

There was a cackle from the old woman.

“Humans can’t get into the realm, young man.”

“Don’t count on it, grandma.”

The woman burst out laughing.

“Oh, I like you, Mr Tough Guy. Call me Magda, why don’t you? Now, let’s leave your friend to go through the Gate and you and me will sit by the fire and drink coffee.”

Blake looked round.

“Are you two sure you aren’t yanking my chain? I don’t see anything.”

Dani and Magda exchanged glances. The Gate was plainly visible to them. It was sunny on the other side and Dani could even smell the meadow grass of Nurhan. Though she’d never smelled it before, it was strangely comforting.

She reached up and put her arms round Blake’s neck.

“I’ll be back soon. Wait with Magda.”

He whispered into her ear.

“Is she, like, a fairy or something?”

Dani grinned and whispered back.

“Kobold. Type of fae. She guards the Gate so don’t try to storm in.”

“No promises.” He brushed a strand of blue hair from her forehead. “Take care, beautiful. I love you.”

He didn’t expect her to say it back, and she didn’t. She stood on tiptoe and kissed him.

“See you soon.”

Then she turned and walked through the Gate.

Blake blinked. From his perspective, Dani simply walked a few steps into the forest and disappeared. For a brief moment, he could have sworn he saw green fields and blue sky outlined around her. Then she was gone.

“Freaky,” he muttered to himself.

Unsure what to do next, he sat gingerly next to Magda. She handed him a mug of warm brown liquid. He took a sip and grimaced.

“Jesus. Is this just straight whisky?”

“I put a coffee bean in there.”

He shrugged.

“That’s all right then.” He took another sip. Christ, Norway was cold. He moved closer to the fire.

The kobold rooted around in her skirt pocket and pulled out something pink and fluffy. She offered it to Blake.

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