That was a low blow, even if it was factual. Now, to let down a god gently. “I might be at odds with Hudson, but that doesn’t give you an opening. In today’s world, we don’t just show up and demand a woman’s attention and devotion.”
He tilted his head while considering my words. “You wish to be wooed.”
I wish to be out of here so I can scream into the void as I let the pieces of my heart shatter.“We are not a good match.”
“You stated a moment ago that people don’t show up and decide their suitability. Make up your mind, Cora.”
I blinked. Games with a god.Get your head on straight, Cora. You know how to play it.
“That’s fair. We need to meet in the middle.”
He narrowed those otherworldly eyes. “What do you propose?”
Good question. My mind raced through options, examining and discarding them one after the other. “A date,” I settled on.Really, brain? A date?I got the metaphorical thumbs-up.
“I despair at your lack of creativity,”Indigo drawled.
“Shut up.”
I could survive one surface-level encounter with him for the sake of making my grandmother weak. What does a date with a god look like? Steak and wine? Going to see the latest blockbuster? I hear they’re replaying theGhostbustersfranchise with brilliant success. Trust the corporate giants to capitalize on the world’s terror of the unknown.
“Make it five,” he bartered.
“Three.”
“Deal.”
He seemed so sure that three encounters would be enough to draw me into his orbit.
“And you will begin your removal of her power now.”
“No, it will begin when you fulfill your promise.”
“How can I trust you?”
He shrugged. “You can’t. So, I will weaken her in increments every time you give me a date.”
That was fair. “Fine.” I felt like I was missing something, but my mind was full of betrayal, mates, friends, family, and the apocalypse.
Donn picked up a knife from the side of his plate and scored a line in his palm, his blood seeping to the surface. He turned the blade around and offered it to me.
Blood oath? Sure, let me get right on that.“Not a chance.”
“Then no deal. Good luck with Eloise.”
A growl worked its way up my throat as my power stirred, recognizing the threat before me. I hated being cornered and manipulated, but we needed him to stop helping my grandmother sooner rather than later.
The knife shimmered between us like a taunt. What was I willing to risk for those I love? Everything. The answer came easily, even if my love didn’t. I’d given my heart to a man, and I had no delusions that the partnership wouldn’t be fraught with disagreements.
“What are the ramifications of such an oath?” I edged. Perhaps he’d take a contract or a promise instead.
“Death and an eternity at my side should you go back on our deal,” he vowed. He would, without question, hold me to that.
“Three dates,” I checked.
“Yes.”
“The times and locations decided by me.”
