Page 238 of Bonds of Hercules
“I love you both so much,” Alexis said, then she whispered into my ear, “You’re my Piano Concerto No. 20 in D Minor.”
Tears leaked down my face.
It was Mozart’s most romantic composition.
Turning, I pulled Alexis against my aching body and held on to her as Augustus wrapped around us both.
I could only sleep when she was in my arms.
SGC DAY12
Bang. Bang.
“Time to head to the arena,” guards shouted.
I peeled open swollen, crusted eyes and looked around. In the middle of the night, I’d once again pulled Alexis across me like a blanket.
Her heartbeat pounded against my chest.
“Where’s Augustus?” Alexis shifted as she rolled off me, and I fought the urge to grab her and pull her back.
Wait, why didn’t he wake us up?
A muffled voice bellowed, “Three minutes!”
Swearing, Alexis and I dressed quickly.
As the guards led us through the stone labyrinth, I clutched the back of Alexis’s neck, stroking her necklace to soothe myself.
When we were led out into the stands, bright sun blinded me.
The air was warm. The scent of grass, fresh flowers, and earth filled my nose.
Alexis didn’t move away like she had the last few days. We sat together behind Drex, Charlie, and Helen.
The youngsters recoiled as they saw my face. My bruises must look gruesome.
I gave them a sheepish smile. It was hard to be upset.
Tender emotions washed over me as I inhaled the scent of clean soap, soaking up Alexis’s presence. She was holding my hand, touching me, choosing me—shelovedme.
Nothing else mattered.
The crowd clapped with excitement as Augustus walked onto the sands holding a sword and wearing no armor. In contrast, Poco stood on his shoulder, fluffy gray belly protruding, his teeth bared, wearing a silver chest plate and matching Spartan helmet—he was in full battle regalia.
Static crackled as Zeus announced Augustus had two rounds and six labors.
The stadium hollered with excitement.
Augustus tensed, both hands gripping his sword, a strange expression on his face.
He looked …cold.
The gate opened—sweat dripped down my spine, memories of Typhons playing—Alexis squeezed my hand, and I focused on her touch.
ROARRRRRR.
Four Minotaurs charged out, already fully shifted into beasts with monstrous snouts, curling horns, and thick hooved legs.
