Page 31 of God Touched

Arawan still had his hand on her knee, and for all the ways she imagined their meeting going, that wasn't it. Had he really gotten off over her? Fuck, she didn't need that visual burned into her brain.

"Imogen has had an excellent idea of bringing my court together to have a party," Arawan said.

"Yeah, that was me. I remembered what you said, Kill, about courtiers being interested in the newcomers. We can use that to our advantage, see if anyone will spill something," Imogen replied.

"They will be trying to fuck you the whole night, so you better be ready for that too," Killian warned her.

Imogen winked at him. "So it's like every party I go to." Killian laughed with her, but Arawan's grip on her only tightened.

"I doubt you will have to go as far as sleeping with anyone, Imogen. People like to talk to you, and you only need to give them the opportunity," Bayn said. He frowned at Killian. "Don't give her any of your bad ideas."

"I was only going to suggest she carry her dagger and make sure the drinks are strong," Killian replied with mock outrage.

"Let us know how it goes. If there is a spy and more ghouls or horde creatures stationed around the United Kingdom, I want to know about it," Kian said, and they rang off.

"I'll start laying some extra wards in the guest rooms, so if anyone tries to do magic while they are here, we will know," Aisling said, bowing low to Arawan before she stepped out of the room.

"I have organized the gathering for tomorrow evening. We will have people arriving between now and then, so be on your guard and don't go wandering. It will be better to keep your presence as a surprise, and I can introduce you," Arawan said thoughtfully. Imogen got out of the chair, his hand finally letting her go. It was like she could finally think straight again.

"Introduce me as what? They will know I'm new," she said.

"I'll announce you as a liaison to the princes so they will think twice about disrespecting you. Or I could introduce you as my companion for the evening," Arawan replied, resting his chin in his hand. "It would keep the vultures well away from you."

"Just as a liaison, thanks. Can I bring a date?" she asked.

Arawan's eyes narrowed. "You need to be my eyes and ears at this party. You will have no time for a date."

Imogen huffed. "Doesn't sound like a fun party at all."

"Come with me as my companion, and I'll make it a night you never forget," he replied, voice full of promise that had her standing up straighter.

"Thanks, but no thanks. I'll pass."

Arawan let out a huff of irritation. "Why must you be so difficult?"

"Because you like it," she said with a sweet smile. "Also, if I turn up as your fucking date, no one will talk to me because they are going to think we are boning. Do you want to find out who the spy is or not? Now, if you'll excuse me, your godliness, I need to go and see about a dress."

"I can have one sent to your rooms if you want," he offered.

"I'm sure you could, but I got it covered."

Arawan gave her a long look that made her toes curl in her motorcycle boots. "You could wear your hunting gear for all I cared. I'd still want you by my side."

"Charming, but it's not going to happen. I have hunting to do, remember? I can't be good bait if I look like a big, scary hunter that will gut them any chance I get."

"Nothing too revealing. I will have a hard enough job keeping them off you as it is," Arawan complained.

Imogen threw him a sly wink. "Trust me. I know how to pick a party dress."

It was a total fucking lie. Imogen couldn't remember the last time she had worn a dress, let alone bought one. Luckily, she had backup.

Imogen waited until she was back in her room and had a locked door between her and Arawan before she rang Freya.

"I thought I would be hearing from you," Freya answered instantly. "What did I tell you about not fucking Arawan?"

"I haven't fucked him!"

"Imogen, Bayn said that Arawan was looking at you that whole meeting."

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