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I want to touch her.

And for the first time in my existence, wanting something does not mean I can simply take it.

An infuriating discovery.

Fortunately, tonight I have another opportunity to persuade her.

* * *

“Seriously? Again?”

Calla stands in the middle of my dream temple, wearing a short silk nightgown and an expression of profound annoyance.

I smile from my throne.

“Good evening, little mortal.”

She looks around at the marble columns, the enormous bed draped in silk, and the stars glittering overhead.

“Wow. You really don’t believe in subtlety, do you?”

“I am the God of Desire.”

“Yes, you’ve mentioned that.”

“Subtlety would be an insult to my dominion.”

She folds her arms.

“Well, Your Divine Hotness, what do you want this time?”

I rise.

Her gaze travels down my bare chest.

Lingers.

Then snaps back to my face.

I grin.

“Enjoying the view?”

“Just admiring the architecture.”

“An understandable reaction.”

She rolls her eyes.

Sweet Hell, she’s magnificent.

“Come here,” I command.

She doesn’t move.

“Nope.”

I stop.