Page 52 of Touch Of Fate
After shutting the bathroom door, I turn on the water and move to the sink. I stare at myself, but I don’t look any different. It’s silly to think I would. I feel stronger, as if accepting my gifts has allowed my body to adjust and be at ease. I shake my head and strip. Going through the motions of taking care of my body, I let my thoughts wander to my sexy soul bond. He intrigues me and causes interesting things to happen to my magic and body. He hasn’t said much about his past, and even though I have met his family, he’s still a mystery. We have communicated with our spells and souls. Is that why I feel so close to him? I don’t need to know his favorite color or food to know he is a good person. I know he has secrets, but who doesn’t? There are things I’ve shared with him that I haven’t told anyone, yet it felt natural. He would never force me to say or do things I’m not comfortable with. So, even if I am curious, I won’t push him. He will open up when he is ready.
I squeeze the water out of my hair, step out, and reach for the towel. Wrapping my body, I walk to the mirror and freeze. How did I not notice it? I lean forward over the sink and stare at the new tattoo that appeared on my shoulder. Flames. Fire is scattered over two inches of my skin. I’d never accomplished fire before tonight. It was a rush, and I felt a surge of pride. This must mean I did the right thing. The universe is rewarding me with new ink on my skin that I can pull my magic from. I flutter my fingers over it, grateful it doesn’t hurt like a new tattoo. It feels hot, and I can’t help but smile.
Dropping my hand, I lotion my body and dress. My hair takes more time. I open a drawer and get out my blow dryer. I set it on full blast and brush as I dry. My eyes are the same green as they always have been, except now I can see a light in them. Rome makes me happy. Being in his presence has already changed me.Feeling our spells connected has brought new life to my world. Is this how being bonded feels? I’m not as afraid of it as I was at first. He makes me comfortable. I trust he wants the best for me. As he showed me how to use my fire, it felt right. My mom was the last person to teach me anything about magic. I think she would approve of Rome’s patience and care.
When my strands are dry enough, I shut the blower off, run the bristles through once more, and straighten the room. I open the door and freeze just over the threshold. Rome is sitting on the edge of the bed, facing the bathroom, his hands clenching the mattress.
“Do you mind if I use your shower?” he asks, his gaze trailing over my skin.
“Make yourself at home.” I bite my lip when he stands fluidly, and I watch him walk toward me.
“Are you sure?” he asks, stopping in front of me.
“What?” I frown.
“You’re blocking the door,” he whispers, rubbing his thumb over my shoulder. Slowly back and forth, back and forth. The rings he wears are cold and make me shiver.
“Oh, shit. Sorry.” I can’t make my body move.
“Is this new?” he asks, tilting his head. I follow his gaze to the fire.
“Yes,” I gulp.
“Good girl. You accomplished your fire.” He grins charmingly, and I have to lock my knees. I don’t know if the cause is his pride, sexy grin, or the wordsgood girl.“Do you want to watch?”
“Huh?” I lick my lips. He focuses on my mouth.
“My Mara, you need to walk away. If not, I don’t mind your presence while I shower.” He lifts his handful of clothes, which I didn’t notice he had.
“Crap.” I slide to the side and forward.
“Shame,” he mumbles.
“What?” I ask, narrowing my eyes. He said it so softly, I can’t be sure of what I heard.
“Nothing,” he says. He winks, steps inside the bathroom, and shuts the door softly.
I sprint out of the bedroom while waving my hands in front of my face. He’s powerful with more than magic. His simple touch almost turned me into a puddle on the floor. I busy my hands and make some tea. Coffee is a favorite, but tea calms me. Lace introduced me to different flavors, and I sort through them until I find the chai. I have no idea if Rome likes it, but I make him some anyway. Going to bed would be the smart thing, and although I’m exhausted, I don’t think my mind will shut off yet. I hate lying there, staring at the ceiling, hoping for sleep to come. I would rather exhaust myself.
Lace bought me a cute pot to boil water, but I’m too impatient. Instead, I fill two cups with water and put them in the microwave. I figure both ways get the water hot, so who cares about the method? While it heats, I get a plate and fill it with the chocolate chip cookies Lace baked. Cookies go with everything, but especially tea. The timer beeps, and I carefully remove the cups. I’m dunking the bags in them as Rome leaves the bedroom. I stare at his bare chest, barely paying any attention to what I’m doing. He’s wearing black silky pajama pants and a robe of the same material. The fabric waves behind him as he moves, and my mouth waters.
“Is that for me?” he asks as he stops across from me.
“Uh…yeah.” I look down and remove the little bag. “It calms me.” I shrug and pass him his cup. He sits on a stool and takes the offered cup. I lick my lips as his fingers graze mine.
“I could use that,” he says softly.
“Is something wrong?” I blow on my tea and watch him carefully.
“The adrenaline is still with me,” he explains.
“Is the amount of energy affecting you? Can you take too much?” I frown.
“That’s a tricky question,” he mutters, balling his hand. “There was a time when I would be afraid to touch you, especially after big intakes.”
“Why?”
He looks at his cup, and the silence stretches. I don’t think he is going to answer me until he finally lifts his gaze.
