Page 129 of Their Lethal Pet

We’re right on the water—a place calledLake Michigan, according to Flame. “It’s a good home base while Reaper goes to scout the Elite City,” he added. “We’re close enough that Orcus can get there quickly if needed, yet far enough away to go undetected.”

“In theory,” Orcus inserted. “We’re only about an hour north of the city, and the magic in this realm is… unique.”

I suspected he said that last bit because of everything he learned from Helia. From what I gathered, she impressed him. And he wasn’t sure how he felt about it yet.

Particularly as his Strigoi were taken during the meeting.

“She obviously knew what was happening, making me wonder if the whole meeting was just a distraction,” he told Flame earlier after lunch.

“Maybe. However, why would someone want the Strigoi?” Flame asked again. “I realize they’re royals, but that can’t mean much of anything here.”

“I don’t know,” Orcus grumbled.

“I’ll find out,” Reaper offered.

Which was how they devised the plan making Reaper the city scout.

“He’s a literal shadow,” Flame told me afterward when he picked up on my concern. While I knew these fae could take care of themselves, I didn’t like the hint of danger involved in their Elite City espionage plan. “He’ll just pop in, look around, and pop right back.”

Well, hepoppedoff about an hour ago, and none of us have heard a word from him.

I gaze up at the moon overhead, my lips twisting to the side.

It’s pretty here. But that doesn’t help soothe the pang of discomfort growing in my lower belly.

Reaper should be back by now, I think.Where is he?

That sense of unease merges with another emotion, one that has my heart skipping a beat.Hope.

I might find my sister soon.

Except my elation is paired with a troubling sensation, one driven by guilt.

Because these fae males are the only reason I’m here.

And they have no idea I even have a sister.

They’ve done everything to support me, to protect me, toteachme, and I’ve held myself back.

Why?

Why can’t I just tell them?

It’s not that hard. It’s not even that big a secret, is it?

As soon as Reaper returns, I’m telling them,I decide.

They might be able to help me find her.

Orcus lands a few feet away from me, his massive wings unfurled to reveal thousands of silky black feathers. His long, dark hair is wild from the wind, and his red eyes are focused on his project ahead.

He places his hands on his lean hips, his muscular arms rippling with the movement.

Actually, every part of him is rippling.

Because he’s shirtless.

Wearing just jeans.