Page 112 of The Gods Order

“Somewhere we shouldn’t be. Where no one should be, actually.”

I—well, Kyzen and I—took care of the vermin who lived here.

“That’s not an answer,” Gladian says.

I open my mouth to say something incredibly clever, but Kyzen elbows the shit out of me.

“Now’s not the time. This path leads to the late God of Shadows’ house.”

I choke on my breath, fighting back the laugh clawing up my throat. The stunned looks on everyone’s faces are priceless.

“Well, come on. Let’s go see who moved into the dark and spooky monstrosity.”

I actually really like the house.

Everyone is far less chatty than they were during the half-mile walk to Vullie’s chime tower. Gladian was calmly grunting questions at Amick then. Now he’s rigid as a wall.

It’s hilarious. We’ve really put him through it today.

It’s got to be a shock. Thinking you know everything one minute, learning you know fuck-all nothing the next. I can’t find it in myself to feel bad. We’ve had no choice but to roll with the punches since the moment my angel flew into our lives. He’ll have to get over it sooner rather than later.

I do feel bad for Vullie, though. He’s had it rough, and I don’t know if this Pairing will make his life better or worse.

Maybe I should just kill his father for him. That would make it easier.

“You’re having murderous thoughts.”

Speaking of the man.

I grin at Vullie. “How did you know?”

“Your hum changed from teasing to daunting.”

“Have no fear. I won’t be murdering anyone today.”

Maybe.

“Vulius, explain your relationship with Riven,” Amick says, and I scoff.

“That’s personal and none of your business.”

He continues anyway.

“I already know he’s your supplier for all things illegal and dangerous, but I’m intrigued. Last time we saw you together, he was petrified of you. Now that fear seems nonexistent.”

“He kicked my door down and you all stormed into my home,” Vullie says.

I will admit I scared the literal shit out of him that day, but my actions were justified. He understood after I explained everything.

“I apologized and fixed your door.”

“You did, and I appreciate that.”

“So your fear was momentary because of the situation?” Amick asks.

“Yes, Amick. Now leave him alone,” I say.

Vullie gives me a tight smile and glances at his feet.