Page 23 of Blood Bonds

“Of my killing you?”

“Of you trying,” he corrected. “Especially in my clothes.”

“Mine weren’t in the bedroom, and these were the only practical option.”

“As I said, I approve.” He was about to grant her permission to move when the hairs along his arms stood on end. “Well, then.”

Sethios hadn’t exactly doubted Ezekiel so much as wondered at the plausibility of his friend’s claim. Osiris never visited the city without purpose, which indicated he’d taken this prophecy far too seriously.

This is going to be fun.

Or hurt.

Maybe both.

He popped his hip against the counter and picked up his coffee mug, the picture of nonchalance.

Caro stood beside him, hands fisted. “Free me.” She clearly didn’t feel the impending doom approaching them both.

“I don’t think that would be wise,” Sethios murmured. In fact… “Do not speak, mist, or move unless I give you permission.” His tone left no room for flexibility or negotiation.

Fury radiated off her, something he would have found entertaining any other time.

“It’s for your protection, angel.” And his as well. “If I grab your hand and call you ‘love,’ then mist us to Paris.”

He blew on his coffee before taking a sip. Poor Caro would have to wait to taste hers. He didn’t trust her not to dump the piping hot liquid over his head.

Five.

Four.

Three.

Two.

Knock, knock.

Sethios set the mug down and sauntered into his condo’s foyer.

“Father,” he greeted as he opened the door. “This is a surprise.” The latter was directed at the two Ichorian minions in the hallway. Their names escaped him. Not that it mattered. They were inconsequential anyway.

“Is it?” his father asked. His gaze searched the condo over Sethios’s shoulder, almost as though he could feel Ezekiel’s energy. He might. If he did, he would hopefully chalk it up to an old essence. Their close friendship wasn’t a secret.

Sethios shrugged and moved into the kitchen to retrieve his coffee. It served as both a distraction and a way to be closer to his escape route, should he need her.

“To what do I owe the pleasure?” Sethios asked, his features schooled into a facade of indifference.

His father eyed Caro with interest, as did the two minions behind him. “Is this the woman from last night?”

“Yes.”

“She’s still alive.” Not a question, but a statement shrouded in surprise.

Sethios lifted a shoulder. “She amuses me. For now.” A truth that didn’t require explanation. “I know how much you loathe this city. Why are you here?”

“Direct as always.” His father’s gaze hadn’t left Caro. “Allow her to speak.”

“You wish for her to scream?” Sethios grinned. “It is a beautiful sound, but I’d prefer to finish my coffee first.”