Starting with our home.
Pischiel was waiting for me outside grandfather’s office. “To the gardens?”
“Actually, I thought we might walk inside today.”
He frowned. “Inside?”
“Yes. I love this palace, don’t you?”
“Of course, but–”
“And the weather seems like it might turn.”
We both glanced out the nearest window to the perfection of the blue sky.
“Besides,” I attempted a smile. “We can talk moreintimatelyinside.”
His gaze met mine, and he smiled back. “In that case, where should we begin?”
We began in grandfather’s throne room, where I’d spent my early years playing with some of the lesser demons who were perched on the exposed beams far above us.
From there, I insisted on the kitchens, and Pischiel laughed at me as all work stopped the moment I entered. Servants bowed, while lesser demons seemed to quake with fear. I swallowed and backed out, a frown on my face.
“What’s wrong?” Pischiel was watching me closely.
“Nothing.” We walked down the stairs that led to the servants’ quarters. The light was dimmer down here, and it was quiet—the servants all working. Torches of demon fire flickered every five paces or so, and our footsteps echoed on the stone.
Pischiel wrinkled his nose. “Really, Danica, why would you want to spend time downhere?”
I shrugged. “You’re right. Let’s go to the gardens.”
“Much better.” His hand covered mine, where it was still clasping his elbow, and he turned me, leading me out a side entrance of the palace. We turned left, walking along the east wall.
I didn’t know what I was looking for, but I wasn’t going to find it—
That door.
Heavy, thick metal. And a large X stamped across it, running diagonally from each corner. Iknewthis door.
Pischiel noticed my attention, and he laughed. “Let me guess, you want to drag me through the dungeon next.”
The dungeon. Of course.
Strong arms carried me toward a metal door. I fought with everything in me, but the demon holding me merely ignored my struggles as Lucifer took a knife from the sheath on his side and sliced his palm.
He pressed it against the door, and it swung open. With a victorious smile, Lucifer gestured for the demon carrying me to follow him.
I swayed on my feet, swallowing around the sudden tightening of my throat. Pischiel seemed to be waiting for my reply. What had he said?
“Very funny,” I croaked out. Pischiel merely grinned, steering me away from the door. His dark eyes danced as if he found me oh-so-amusing, and I had the sudden urge to punch him.
What was going on with me? I’d never hit anyone in my life.
“You look upset.”
“Not upset,” I attempted a smile. “Just a little tired.”
“Walk with me for just a few minutes and I’ll escort you back to your rooms.” He studied my face, pausing as we approached the main gardens. “I want you to be happy, Danica.”
