We were in a grass field somewhere, next to water. Less than four feet away, the portal waited. The outsides were a deep merlot, lightening to scarlet and then crimson near the center. It pulsed like it was alive.
I pulled my gaze away and sneered at Ben. “All this time, all the shit you talked about me being a traitor, and you’re working forLucifer?”
“I’m working for any demon who will help us remove the blight of those who have madeourworld their home. Lucifer will stay in the underworld where he belongs in exchange for his granddaughter being returned to him.”
“Lucifer has to stay in the underworld anyway, you idiot. He’s bound to it.”
He thought that over for a moment and then shrugged. “You never belonged here, Amana. The demons are too powerful to be allowed free rein in our world. With Samael and his people gone, the balance of power will be restored.”
I sneered at him. “And by that, you think the mages will be in charge. Are you forgetting about the fae?”
Ben shrugged. “The fae kings spend most of their time in their own realms. It’s only the demons who actively suppress our ability to keep humanity safe.”
“Oh please. We both know this isn’t about keeping anyone safe.” I tried a new tactic. The longer I stalled, the better. “Samael will kill you slowly for this.”
“You think we’re the only ones who know about this plan? The mages are getting us out of here, dumbass.”
These guys honestly thought the mages would cover their asses? They would sacrifice them in a heartbeat.
Sacrifices must be made.Bruce’s words ran over and over in my head, itching at me.
Ben gestured with his gun. “On your feet, Amana.”
“Go to hell.”
He grinned and waved his gun toward the portal. “You first.”
I met Ben’s eyes. “Shoot me,” I said. “Shoot me, and deal with Lucifer yourself when I bleed out.”
A flash of uncertainty darted across his face before he firmed his jaw. “I don’t have to hit anything vital. What do you think, Wes? Should I kneecap her?” He trained his gun on my good knee and the world swam sickly around me at the thought.
“You kill her and I’ll die too when Lucifer comes for you,” Wes snarled. He was still cupping his hands to his nose, and blood dripped between his fingers.
“Ouch,” I said. “Bet that hurts. How’s the head, Wes?”
His eyes widened. “You just don’t know when to shut the fuck up.”
I smiled at him. I’d only have one chance.
Wes dropped his hands from his face. “Get your skinny ass through the portal, bitch.” He lunged at me, reaching for my arm.
I let him catch it, only long enough to slide my hand down his forearm.
I twisted, grunting as I used my good leg to lift my hips, pouring every ounce of strength I had into the throw.
He screamed as he flew over my shoulder and disappeared into the portal.
I turned back to Ben. He looked a little sick as he stared after Wes. I winked at him as he met my gaze.
“Just you and me now, Benny boy.”
* * *
Danica
Ben aimed the gun at my bad knee. “Looks like this one is ruined anyway. Let’s start here.”
A roar sounded from above us. It sounded primal, the fury pouring from an ancient creature.
