Page 115 of Bonds of Hercules
Hell growled, the sound filled with warning.
“I’m just trying to protect you,” Patro added. “By the way, Ceres is playing you. I can tell when someone is lying. You don’t know the danger you’re in and I can see she—”
“Don’t,” I signed, cutting him off. “Stay away from her.”
Everything was spiraling out of control.
Patro frowned. “I’m only trying to help you.”
Hell stalked toward him, bones flickering, serrated teeth bared.
“Drop dead,” I signed jerkily.
Achilles yanked a hurt-looking Patro behind him protectively.
Hell crouched low between us.
“You’re both cowards,” I signed.
Achilles held my gaze, unflinching, as they turned and disappeared into the shadows.
Gasping, I staggered into the silent room and climbed into bed.
Poco chirped mournfully.
He wrapped his little fluffy arms around my neck, and I hugged him back, my tears dripping into his fur.
Hell jumped up, resting a bony skull on my lap. “You … sad?”
I nodded.
Hell growled. “Me … kill.”
I shook my head no.
Nyx woke up around my neck with a yawn. “What did I miss?” she asked.
“Hell wants to murder people,” I whispered.
Poco chittered and curled up next to me, and Hell repositioned so he was resting on the bed at my feet.
Nyx huffed. “How does he feel about his own personal demise? Is he terrified of me?”
I picked up a sparkly pillow and crushed it against my face.
“Alexis, ask him for me,” Nyx hissed. “Ask himnow.”
I silently screamed.
20
THE ELDEST HEIR
AUGUSTUS: THATSAMENIGHT
The night was dark and sinister outside our bedroom window.
Emotions choked me as my skull pounded.
