“I’m not actually on the boats, although it’s actually a fantastic career. We make sure our teams are well compensated, have the newest equipment, and follow every possible safety precaution. But I started the company with my two brothers, and I handle the finances. I’m sort of a math nerd.”
It took all of my self control to keep my face smooth, like of course I already knew this. But Hecate’s shades, I had thought this man might be unemployed and possibly unhoused. Clearly not.
Derek cleared his throat. “So, Junebug, how have you been?”
My stomach turned over, sloshing another wave of icydread through me. I hated being near him. As if sensing my mood, Caspian raised my hand again and left another kiss on my skin, this time across my knuckles.
I focused my gaze on my ex-husband’s stupid face, refusing to be cowed. “I’m fantastic. Happier than I can remember being in a long, long time. And I hope you are too.”
With my free hand, I lifted my tea, praying my hand didn’t shake. The creamy liquid quivered and rose up, swirling in the cup. Inhaling sharply, I set the glass back down, and the tea settled.
“Sorry,” I muttered.
“What the fuck was that?” Daphne demanded. “What’s wrong with you, flashing your power around like that?”
Wincing, I looked from Daphne to Caspian. “My magic has been a bit more than I’m used to. Actually, it’s been coming back stronger than ever before.”
Daphne scoffed. Her magic had always been weaker than mine, and she’d reveled in my loss of it the last few years. She could barely grow a sprout, and she had no interest in plants, so it was useless to her.
“You’re doing amazing,” Caspian murmured. “I’m so proud of you for coming back into your power.”
A goofy smile filled my face as I stared up at him. His soft gray eyes lit up, and he leaned toward me. Our mouths neared, and I wanted to kiss him. He was offering.
Daphne muttered indignantly, and I wanted nothing more than to shut her up. And to finally kiss my handsomeselkie.
I tipped my chin, and our lips met. It may have looked like a simple, sweet kiss, but my world exploded. His lips were so soft, so perfect, and a wave of magic passed between us until I couldn’t breathe and stars swam behind my eyelids. His hand cradled my face, his thumb brushing my cheek. Every point of contact hummed.
I pulled back, trying to suck in air without gasping like a fish out of water. If I wasn’t careful, I’d levitate all of the water in the restaurant.
Caspian’s hand dropped down to settle on my thigh. My skin heated under his touch, and my core throbbed.
“Well, that was gross,” Daphne muttered. “No one wants to see their sister make out with a rando.”
Gritting my teeth, I rounded on her. “Daph, no one wants their sister fucking their ex-husband, especially before they’re even an ex. I don’t know why you’re so jealous of me that you’d feel the need to take Derek from me, but he’s absolute trash, so I’m sure you’ll be very happy together so you can leave me the hell alone.”
A decade of vitriol poured out of me. There was nothing demure about my tirade, but she deserved every word.
“That was uncalled for,” Derek snapped. “June, you need to apologize.”
“Oh, fuck off. You’re a cheater, and I’ve beenexcessivelyhappy and relieved without you,” I snapped.
My cheeks heated. I never spoke to anyone like this,least of all Derek. He’d required me to be respectful and submissive.
Caspian loved my fire. He grinned when I argued with him, like me being difficult was the highlight of his day. Right now, he stared at me in reverence like I was his goddess.
“I am appalled,” Derek stammered. “I don’t know what has gotten into you. Your family—”
Caspian cut him off, all of his attention focused on me. “Baby, I’d very much like to take you home right now.”
Liquid heat rolled through me, filling me up until I was melting with it. All I could do was nod.
He stood abruptly, pulling me up with him. “Nice to meet you, Daphne, Eric,” he said without looking at my sister or my ex.
Derek spluttered, but Caspian ignored him, turning instead to scan the restaurant. The server appeared and Caspian handed them a fifty-dollar bill, thanking them for their help and letting them know the cash was just for my tea and a tip, not for whatever Daphne and Derek ordered.
It was petty, but I grinned like an idiot.
Hand in hand, we crossed the restaurant and left them behind.
