Page 72 of First Offense

“I’m going to assume you’re planning to take a look around and report back,” I said, standing again.

He squeaked in reply.

I accepted that as an affirmative and glanced around the cell, searching for anything else out of the ordinary.

No cameras.

No listening devices.

Proper lighting, with switches to turn things on and off.

An actual workout area—near the window—with a pull-up bar, weights, and a bench for chest presses.

The toilet functioned normally. The shower had hot water and was big enough for two angels with their wings spread. There was even soap by the faucet.

Like a hotel.

Even the linen was soft.

I sat down again beside Layla, my fingers immediately drawing through her silky hair. She would be thrilled by the shower when she woke up. Not to mention the privacy of the door.

My lips actually curled. I couldn’t wait to see her reaction.

Then I frowned as I recalled that she didn’t deserve to be pleased. She’d Fallen.

Or had she? I wondered, sighing.

I ran my fingers over her silky wings, unable to comprehend how something so perfect could be wrong.

It isn’t wrong, some part of me whispered.She’s every bit right.

Yet I’d been cruel.

A complete ass.

I’d ignored her when she tried to talk to me. I’d shut her out. I’d blamed her for my desire. I’d hated her for this situation.

Well, perhaps it was time I attempted to do something else. Something new. Something like… listening to her.

20

Novak

Cherry blossoms.

I inhaled deeply, allowing the refreshing scent to consume me. Fuck, I wanted a taste. She was so close, her feathers nearly brushing mine.

My dick hardened in anticipation, my skin tightening with the need for release. I groaned, rolling onto my side.

“Don’t,” a deep voice said. “Or I’ll shove you onto the floor.”

My brow furrowed as I tried to escape the fog of a deep sleep.

Another deep breath nearly drowned me in Layla’s natural perfume. Then Auric’s evergreen cologne hit me square in the gut.

My hands curled into fists as molten need seared my insides.Fuck. I nearly growled in frustration, but a rumble from Auric had me forcing my eyes open. He sat up against the wall, his long legs stretched out and crossed at the ankles.

Between us was Layla.