"Sit," she orders, pointing to the chair.
I don't see the point of arguing, so I obey, but it makes my predicament worse. The front angle is more torturous than the side.
"Should I just uncross my legs and let you examine me closer?" she reprimands.
I don't miss a beat. "If that's what you want. I'll oblige."
"I'm sure you would."
I shrug. "Don't put a dog bowl in front of a dog."
Valentina arches her eyebrows, half amused, half insulted. "So I'm a dog bowl?"
The flick of the match burns inside me. I don't hesitate. "If you want, I'll show you how a dog eats."
A flush erupts on her cheeks.
"Back to the original question. Am I here for pleasure or business?" I repeat, wishing she'd say pleasure and let me get on with what I'm sure would be an unforgettable night.
"You're here to learn." She shifts on the couch, uncrossing and recrossing her legs.
I point at her. "The only thing that's going to do is make me want to study every inch of your thighs."
She tilts her head and smirks. "You wish."
"Pretty sure you do."
Her red fingers snap. "Pay attention, Brax. There's less than six hours, and time's ticking. Every second you waste could be what causes your demise."
I grunt. "Less than six hours for what?"
"To learn."
"Learn what?"
"Rules. Procedures. The trajectory of your life now that you've stepped into the Underworld," she discloses.
I roll my eyes. "Spare me the drama. And do you mind if we turn off the fire? It's hotter than shit in here."
Her voice turns to anger. She hurls, "Ma sei proprio un cretino!"
"I'm not an idiot," I declare.
Her eyes widen. "You know Italian?"
Arrogance fills me. I cross my arms, sit back, and grin.
"How?" she asks.
I jump off the couch and walk toward the front door. "None of your business. Now, this little visit has been nice, but I'm sweating my balls off. You're welcome to join me for some fresh air if you're tired of this inferno." I reach for the door handle, but it's locked.
"It's locked."
"No shit," I say, but then my gut drops. There's only a keyhole and no way to unlock it. Alarms ring in my ears. I spin. "What's going on here?"
Valentina rises. "I told you that we have less than six hours. My suggestion is that you take this seriously."
The hairs on my neck rise. "Or what?"
