Page 34 of Paper Thin Love

“Answer my real question.”

I look toward the most feared table. It’s the smallest table in the cafeteria and only allows six max. The two people who sit there would never allow others to join them. No one would be insane enough to try.

Even the other guys who seek power know thattheirpower is too much, too dark for them to consume.

“I don’t think you have to worry about them. They don’t participate in The Cleansing anymore.”

“Why?”

“I…I don’t know. I think it’s not considered a competition to them. It was too easy. They like to watch now.”

“They like to learn,” he mutters to himself.“I want names.” He says, his interest piqued.

I sigh, whispering their names so low Dash might not hear.“Dante De Luca and Cillian Collins,”

“Why. The. Fuck. Didn’t you tell me earlier?” He sneers so coldly that my soul just jumped out of my skin.Hey, get back here, you coward!

“I…I honestly don’t think they will bother you. They rarely compete. They are an anomaly here. They keep to themselves.” I glance at him.“Everyone knows not to bother them. Let’s play smart, Dash.”

He steps in front of me, making my next exhale bounce back in my face.“Don’t you think I need friends like that, Mila?”

My breathing takes on a wheeze.

“Get my food, then we’re going to sit at our new table.”

I gulp and shake my head,“We?”

“Yes!” He growls. He walks to the pizza section and mulls over their selection; today, it’s a white truffle triple cheese.“Get two slices.” He orders. I’m so stunned I just do as he says.

“We’re dead, Dash.” My fingers tremble as they sink into the crisp crust. I grab the slice and place it on the plate.“My death is your fault,” I grumble partially as a joke. Glancing over my shoulder at him, I instantly regret it. Something I said really pissed him off. His pale cheeks flush a furious red. He takes a step closer to me and falters; it’s the first time he stumbles with his crutch.

“You’re right. Your life is tied to mine now, little fox, so it’d be wise of you to stick by my side. Wander too far and another wolf might just hunt you down.” Those typically cold glacial blue eyes are now flickering, letting the hazel color shine through with…fear.

“I…I meant it as a joke. Kind of, I guess. But seriously, we might die if we try to sit at that table. Let’s play it smart and choose another.”

He swings his crutch out suddenly, directly between my legs until it presses against me intimately.

“Dash,” I gasp, my eyes widening in embarrassment and, okay, I admit it’s attraction. I try to step back to ease the pressure, but I’m trapped. Pinned down like his prey.

He lowers his lips to mine, but instead of a kiss, I feel his searing breath.“Don’t you think I know you’re my responsibility, Mila? Don’t you think I’ve calculated your life into my plans? I fucking know, okay!”

“I didn’t mean to stress you out. I just stated the obvious.”

“Do me a favor and only talk when it’s useful,” he growls, his voice cutting like ice.“You’re no good to me dead,” he mutters as he straightens, the tension radiating from him palpable.

I struggle to catch my breath, my heart pounds as I turn to grab the second slice of pizza. I only have the strength to say this with my back turned to him.“You confuse me, Dash King. At times, I know I’m your pawn, but then you say things that make me think you really do want to be friends. But then I’m reminded I made a deal with the devil.”

Finally, I turn, my eyes searching his.“What are you to me?” I ask, slightly pleading. It’s been less than an hour of knowing this man, and I feel like he has altered my course. I fear I will never find the old path again. I’m stuck in uncharted waters, relying on a monster to guide me.

“I already told you. I’m your fire.” He pushes his crutch against me, adding more pressure against the apex of my thighs, and I gasp—or is it more of a moan?—he continues,“Sometimes, I’ll give you warmth.” His lips graze against my ear, sending shivers down my spine.

My breath is full-on panting as my core heats up into a roar. He shifts his crutch again, and it rubs against the most sensitive spot of my sex. My eyes roll back as my blood is replaced with adrenaline and pleasure.

“Sometimes I’ll be your guiding light.” He pulls back, his eyes locking onto mine, filled with a mixture of lust, wanting, and the smallest hint of apology.

“And other times, I’ll just burn every inch of you.” He declares as he violently pulls the pressure away from my body, taking the pleasure with him.

Immediately, I’m embarrassed; we’re in the cafeteria, barely concealed by the food tables. He had his crutch between my legs, and, oh god, it felt so damn good! It’s mortifying.

---