Page 31 of Kiss of Magic

She pouted prettily.

“To go out. Drink, dance, have fun. One last blow-out before I’m toast.”

Blake shook his head.

“Out of the question. We’re going back to the safe-house where I can keep an eye on you.”

“It’s not as if I can run away,” she protested. “Please, Blake. Let’s have some fun. It’s my last chance.”

She blinked slowly, her dark lashes framing her incredible turquoise eyes, and Blake found himself mesmerised. He gave himself a mental shake.

“Sorry, Blue. No can do.”

She opened her mouth to argue and all the restaurant windows exploded simultaneously.

Fifteen

Palis City

Tala walked slowly into the sumptuous bedchamber she shared with Count Darian Lemar at the palace in Palissandra. Blake had sent word; he’d found the witch. He would take her to the location of the lock. And then the seal would finally be closed again.

And all it would cost was a young woman’s life.

She ran her fingers through her honey-blonde hair. It was a no-brainer. One life against millions. A life, moreover, that had been specifically created for this very moment. So why did it feel so cruel?

She didn’t even know Dani. Blake had said she was smart and feisty. Would it have made a difference if she was nondescript and dull? Tala wrapped her arms around her waist, trying to convince herself there was no other choice.

“Shaitun.”

She turned. Darian was behind her, though she hadn’t heard him approach. Like all Vetali, he was as silent as a cat.

“Hey you.” She smiled but he caught the hollowness in her voice. “I didn’t think you’d be back. How’s it going in Nush’aldaam?”

“No panic so far. People are scared but they’re keeping calm. Some are on the move already, others want to stay and fight.”

“And the Emperor? How is he?”

“Surprisingly impressive. Decisive and forthright.” He tilted his head consideringly. “He’s teamed me up with your least favourite jinn.”

“Salaq? Fuck. He’s one person Iwouldn’tmind the demons finding.”

“Actually, he’s proving to be quite useful.” He raised a hand as Tala’s eyebrows shot up. “Don’t get me wrong, he’s arrogant as fuck. But he’s working well with Palissandra’s engineers and he’s made some excellent suggestions of his own. Like it or not, he’s got a decent military mind.”

“Just don’t get too pally with him,” she said sourly. “He’ll stab you in the back first chance he gets. Did you see Shade and Raya?”

“They send their regards.” He paused, noticing the strain around her eyes. “And you? How did it go in the mortal world?”

“It’s good news. Blake’s found the witch who can close the seal. With any luck, we won’t need all these contingency plans.”Although not so lucky for her.Tala forced down her guilt, knowing it was a useless emotion. Darian sensed her discomfort.

“That would certainly be the best outcome, shaitun,” he said gently. “The seal is holding for now but who knows for how long? I’m just glad you’re here, in Palissandra, far away from the danger.”

Tala stilled.

“What do you mean?”

“I mean this is the safest place to be if the demons get free. They have no interest in Vetali. They prefer warm flesh. Fae and jinn.”

She stared at him as if he was mad.

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