It tickled them both though to be on that side of things and the rush of going undercover. There were a few different hot quickies and kinky encounters where the adrenaline and rush were riding us.
Fun times.
Not even a week later and I was honestly impressed with how much we all accomplished. The stage was set well and I knew I was going to get spanked, but I was damn sure it was worth it.
“Part two of the education,” that same female ancient leader teased as I walked in.
“Yes, but this time I’m doing it as Jasmine Stewart, private citizen, not councilwoman or VP of Heavenly Entertainment,” I told everyone there firmly. I gestured to the other demons. “They had no part in this. I did this.”
She studied me. “Not alone.”
“No, none of us survive alone,” I agreed. “I had help and I would never take the credit of others.” I waited until she nodded, seeing the way others deferred to her. “The desires and emotions last time made me shift gears, so if this offends pride, that wasn’t the intent, but it seemed a show was needed.”
“Jasmine, for fuck’s sake,” Ally growled under her breath.
Yeah, all the other ancient demons were there. Of course, they were when they knew I was up to trouble.
I was glad though because it wasn’t just Ricco’s ancient leader friends this time, but they brought friends they clearly trusted as well. There were four times as many.
Plusthe others I invited. Including ISLE leadership, not just Director Stevens. Several were there from the vampire council including Gavin. Dozens from other councils… Who probably realized not to bring their electronics around me this time.
But they weren’t surprised the other ancients were of their species. From what I was getting, they thought those they feared were going to handle the “situation” of us for them.
Fools.
At least Mason was as paranoid as I was and had made hundreds of those translator bracelets now for us to use when needed.
The woman slowly nodded deciding to explain it for others. “The impression you left was good and most of us agreed we were wrong about the situation of demons and your new council. And while we would not want to challenge you, we would not want to engage in this war you have coming. It’s benefitted Rome, but it cannot all of us.”
“That was the impression I got, yes,” I said easily. “So business as usual for the ancients and their groups the councils won’t touch. Also, that none of you thought we could really split our focus to get our people out with the war you see and that is the opinion they planned to say. Basically, don’t come at us, but we wouldn’t be a worry if left alone.”
“And you think you can change that opinion?” she asked, her tone curious.
“Not of everyone. Not everyone can see the truth no matter what’s right in their faces.” I winked at Ally. “Pride gets them every time.”
“I’m still beating your ass for this,” she grumbled, sighing when I snorted. “Fine, all six of us willtry.”
“We’ll still lose, she’s getting so fucking good,” Elijah bitched.
I sighed. “I apologized. Repeatedly.”
He ground his jaw. “You were barely paying attention,bored, and almost ripped off my damn arms, Jasmine.” He snorted at what he was reading off the room. “Yes, I have my pride too, but I am beinghonest. She is a machine that trains and trains and—try for yourself and eat your humble pie.”
“Another day. I already want to show off,” I reminded him. I decided to focus on the woman, glancing over at Kyle and nodding before meeting her curious gaze. “But you made another decision.”
“I did,” she purred. “I know the winning horse when I see it, if you forgive the implied insult. I’m not insulting you, young one. Not ever.”
“None taken, and forgive my turn of phrase in saying that I believe in rewarding good behavior. Because your desires to warn your friends were apparent and that’s helpful to me and mine.”
“No offense taken and I love presents,” she chuckled lightly, understanding the game.
I went over to the table and grabbed the first file. “Your people have a problem with some very well-connected humans who know how to play the game. Criminals who blame you for everything and have the right backing and enough knowledge to be dangerous. Everything from collection rackets to drugs and weapons.”
“Yes, they are thorns we can’t ever seem to clip,” she said quietly, her mood instantly changing.
“Consider them fucking mowed over,” I told her as I handed over the file. “Several of them are already in custody with the Chinese government who donotlike to be made fools of. More will be punished in the coming days and weeks, and if youcontact the people listed, they will help you file the correct paperwork.”
“For what?” she asked.
