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“I could bring entire kingdoms to their knees.”
“Sure. But have you ever been kissed twice?”
I narrow my eyes.
“I’ve been kissed.”
“By me.”
“An excellent first experience.”
She laughs harder.
“You are unbelievable.”
“I’m the Lord of Desire.”
“And apparently the patron saint of first dates.”
I point at her.
“Careful.”
She grins. “Or what?”
“Or I shall demonstrate precisely how quickly an immortal can learn.”
Her laughter fades.
Her eyes meet mine. “Oh?”
“Bet your sweet ass.”
She tilts her chin. “Then maybe you should.”
I’ve faced monsters that could devour entire cities.
None have ever frightened me quite like the sight of Calla reaching for the hem of my shirt.
“May I?” she asks.
I stare at her. “May you what?”
“Take this off.”
I glance down. “Why would you need permission?”
She smiles. “Because I like asking.”
Something warm settles in my chest.
Not the familiar rush of desire.
Something quieter.
More dangerous.
“Yes,” I say.
