Page 37 of Magic and Muffins

“Honestly, I’m not sure, which is why I can’t ignore her. We know that fae had an agreement with vampires, so perhaps Effora has her own contacts who are willing to reveal where Orphia is.”

After glancing at the time on my phone, I stood and held out my hand to Shepard.

“Let’s head out a little early then. The sooner we ask our questions, the sooner we can get out of there.”

The smile that tugged at his lips as he took my hand warmed me, as did the playful way he tugged me into his lap for a quick kiss.

Fifteen minutes later, as we pulled out of our parking lot, I glimpsed the structure on the roof.

“They’re making good progress,” Shepard said, noticing my attention. “Cross gave me a tour of the rooftop last night. It’s going to be nice once it’s done.”

“I haven’t been up there yet.”

“Hopefully, this will go fast, and we can check it out after.”

I nodded and sat back to enjoy the ride, hoping whatever information Effora had wouldn’t change that plan.

CHAPTEREIGHT

Two menin suits waited by the private entrance to the restaurant, even though it wasn’t yet officially open.

“I’m curious,” I said as Shepard parked. “How much does renting one of these rooms cost, especially when it’s not open?”

“Depends on what’s needed. If it’s full service for a small group, maybe ten grand.”

I cringed, remembering the dinner Cross and I had here, then accepted Shepard’s hand as he helped me from the car. His expression was neutral, but I wondered what emotions I’d smell on him if I had his nose. Nerves? Dread? Probably both.

Shepard held my hand as we walked toward the entrance together. One of the men opened the door for us as we approached. Inside, two more suited men waited near a private room to the left. One of them tapped softly on the door before opening it and letting us inside.

Shepard, ever protective, moved to enter the room first but stopped mid-step in the doorway. His body blocked my view, but not the sensual pull I felt. It wasn’t as strong as when Cross and I had been near that relic, but it was stronger than being next to a fae at Blur.

A hum of energy spread out from my necklace, protecting me enough to control my desires, but I still felt a teasing edge of it.

“You’re just in time for lunch,” I heard Effora say, explaining the pull I felt. “Do you like the presentation?”

“No,” Shepard said, sounding strangled.

Curious, I peeked around him, and the view had me cringing.

Effora was sittingonthe table, leaned back on her hands, her heels braced along the edge. The clothing she wore—a whisper of an ouvert bra and a crotchless thong—was sheer, leaving nothing to the imagination. A loose silver chain connected her exposed nipple piercings to a large jeweled belly button ring. The stone in that thing was as big as Shepard’s thumbnail, reflecting a rainbow of colors.

An empty plate and bib rested on the table right in the V of her legs.

Unfortunately, I now understood the view my gynecologist had to witness, and I wasn’t a fan of it.

I glanced at Shepard and saw the extreme flush he wore as he stared at the ceiling. The man was completely adorable when embarrassed, and I was beginning to understand Vena’s obsession with shy men.

“Please put clothes on,” he said.

“I’m wearing clothes,” Effora said, “and I don’t remember inviting a third party.”

I shrugged at her, pushed Shepard into the room, and closed the door behind us.

“Where Shepard goes, I go.” I took his hand and led him to the head of the table, the farthest away from her display. He pulled out the chair. Before I could sit, he took the seat and pulled me onto his lap, using me like a shield.

When Effora saw her efforts were in vain, she discarded the plate and stood.

“Let’s get to the point of this, Effora,” Shepard said as he ran a hand up and down my back. “You said you have information on Orphia’s location. Where is she?”

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