“We’ll get to Illa Ysari,” he says, countering my confused expression with a handsome smile. “But I have to wait for a few things to fall into place, which will take a day or two at most. After that, we’ll find what we need in those archives.”
The unwavering resolution of his words strike me in the chest and I scoff a laugh.
“You’re willing to go against the council?”
Cupping my face in his gentle grasp, he answers. “Without question. They’re using what little leverage they have in urging us to ascend sooner. I said Ashdown. I meant it. Not a moment sooner. They’ve taken enough time from you.”
I don’t doubt him.
Or his words.
“And if we’re caught?” I ask, leaning into his touch, savoring the closeness and warmth.
Ryc smirks. “I didn’t think a bit of rebellion bothered you,” he teases.
It doesn’t.
WhenI’mthe only one at risk of losing.
He chuckles as if he can hear my thoughts. “Do you honestly believe the council is going to imprison those they want upon the High Throne?”
No.
No, they’re not.
“A few days then,” I relent with a long sigh. “Then we find answers.”
He nods.
A lot can change in a few days’ time.
Drawing me close by my waist, he catches sight of the box in my hands.
“What’s this?” he asks, lifting his gaze to mine.
Turning over my palm, I unfurl my fingers, revealing the hellfire obsidian box.
“Your gift of silver,” I say, my heart pounding in my throat. “I want to give it to you, but…”
His face pinches with concern.
“But?” he asks.
“You deserve better,” I reply and he laughs, surprising me.
“I shall be the one to determine what I deserve,” he counters, smiling. “Bond aside,you’rewhat I want.” He brushes some of my hair over my shoulder, away from my face before returning his eyes to mine. “My sarcastic little demon who scowls more than smiles. You’ve seen so much hate and horror, yet you’re still capable of staring at the stars in awe. You still see the often hidden and overlooked magic of the universe. And, despite everything… you’re still brave enough to give me your heart.”
He presses a tender kiss to my brow as I struggle to find my voice.
“I am not bright and shining and goodness as you make it sound,” I say, the sharp sting of tears growing. “I am selfish, demanding, impulsive. I am all the things your mate shouldn’t be.”
Laying my emotions bare has never been easy. Not for me nor any demon. Doing so leads to a rather vicious downfall in the hells. No demon would dare arm another with sharpened weapons designed to seek the heart.
Regardless, I’ve tried. I’ve tried to share my innermost thoughts and feelings with Ryc at the very least. He deserves that.
“And now I stand to change,” I say as Lilith’s earlier unintended point drives itself into the forefront of my mind.
His brows crease as he draws back a short distance. “What do you mean?” Heavy concern laces his tone.
