Page 73 of Kiss the Dawn
It was a rhetorical question, but I answered anyway.Maybe it was hiding?
You sensed its otherness?
I nodded.
“Where is it? We need to get it somewhere safe.He cupped my shoulders.Orina, whatever was inside that teapot is dangerously powerful. We can’t let it get into the wrong hands.
“I’m afraid we might be too late.”
What do you mean?
“I mean we’ve already let it out.”
Chapter 26
Kaster went pale at my words, and his grip on me tightened too.It’s a weapon, and we have to find it.
“Then you need to stay close to Padma because that thing has been stalking her.”
Where is she now?
“Out on a case. But Kaster, it hasn’t hurt her. In fact, we’re pretty sure it saved Edwin and tried to help her when she was taken by the bounty hunter Shay.” He didn’t look convinced. “It’s the truth. It’s been free for days, and nothing bad has happened.”
Nevertheless, we need to be wary. Padma should be under protection.
“She’s with us. She’s safe.”
Maybe I should have her stay with me.
You can ask her if you want, but I’m not sure what you can do that we, Order operatives, can’t.
I was aware my tone was clipped and haughty, and I didn’t care.
His shoulders sagged.You’re right.But you’ll call me if anything happens.
“Why? Does your father want the entity? And if so, why?”
He balked.No. I just want to make sure that you’re all safe.
What was wrong with me? Why was I being so defensive? I shook it off and smiled.At least we know who the dead vampires are now. But we still have no idea who murdered them and why. If they didn’t take the artifact, then what was the point? And who sent the Order to put out the fire?
I don’t know. That’s something I was hoping to use the teapot to find out. Lure them out maybe?
“I still have the teapot…”
Bait.
I smiled. “Exactly.”
He pressed his lips together.We need to keep this quiet. Need to know basis only.
“Of course. Shall I fetch the teapot?”
Not yet. Let me put a plan together and then I’ll come for it. Keep it here, and keep it hidden for now.
Silence fell between us now that business was complete and awareness seeped into my bones, of his scent and proximity and the pressure of his hands on my shoulders.
His gaze softened and darkened. Did he feel it too? The connection between us?
