Demons Prefer Blondes (Demons Unleashed #1)(76)

“Your father—”

“Knows better.” Flipping a page, a huge smile curved her lips. In rich detail, emblazoned on the thick parchment, were all forms of weapons. Swords, daggers, crossbows, and modern defense mechanisms. Because nothing said, “Die, demon scum” better than a silver slug planted deep in their black hearts. Finally, she was getting somewhere—no thanks to Rafe. “So where can I get some of these?” She glanced over at the small dagger she so wanted to slice into Lamia’s chest earlier. She needed another upgrade.

As if it were light as air, Rafe plucked the book from her lap and slammed it closed. “I won’t send another woman to her death.”

She reached over to grab the book back. “I’m not going to die.”

Without missing a step, Rafe reached out and grabbed her wrist. “No, you’re not. I’m supposed to keep you safe, and I’m going to make damned sure of it.”

“Have fun with that.” Tugging her arm from his grip, she flashed a wry smile. Her finger traced a slow path down a rigid bicep. Warmth spiked to a blazing inferno. Too bad he’d put those stupid pants back on. She leaned in closer, her lips inches from his ear. “Where there’s a will, there’s a way. And I will find a way.”

Eyes swirling and flashing, Rafe turned to meet her gaze. His jaw twitched and his fists clenched as a torrent of despair and frustration washed over his face. “My sister said something similar.”

His words hit like a surprise jab to her stomach. She drew her lips into a straight line and clasped her hands together. He felt guilty about allowing his sister to join the guard. She should’ve known. Casting her glance down to her tightly laced fingers, she heaved a sigh. “I’m sorry, Rafe. Your sister—”

Crooking his finger, he lifted her chin to meet his gaze, warm and inviting. “Don’t be.” With tender care, he lowered his lips to hers.

Tingles and sparks danced across their lips. Throwing her arms around his neck, she laced her fingers in his hair and drew him closer. With teasing nips and nibbles, their mouths melted together. She never wanted it to end.

Nothing felt so perfect. Amazement, mixed with desire, flooded her veins. Warmth emanated from her every pore, every strand of hair, everywhere. A feeling she’d felt before, but never so intense.

What was going on?

Who was she kidding? She knew exactly what was happening. No matter how hard she tried to deny it. His smile, although fleeting, sent her heart aflutter. His voice made her legs turn to mush and his kisses sent all sorts of energy coursing through her. And the sex, hot damn. Not only was it toe-curling, it was explosive and left her hungry for more. For five years, she’d been content without a man. But now, all she could think about was Rafe. She didn’t ask for this. Not now, with so much at stake.

His lips lingered before he pulled away. With a long tender trace along her cheek, he gazed down at her. “What’s on your mind, sweetheart?”

Sweetheart? Her heart thudded a wild beat. Gnawing her lip, she laced and unlaced her fingers. Should she tell him? What would he think? What would he say? She needed to show him she could be strong. She needed to show him she could fight.

“Nothing,” she replied, her tone nonchalant.

“Very well.” He punctuated his sentence with a kiss to her nose. Gaze swirling, His lip crooked up in a smile. “Your father warned me you wouldn’t take no for an answer.”

Her gaze remained indifferent as she crossed her arms. “Glad he hasn’t forgotten me in ten years.” She wouldn’t deny it. She was thrilled that her dad was still alive. Him being the Sexubi king and faking his death—not so thrilling. Confusion and anger simmered inside. Like she could just forgive him.

“Your father loves you. He had to do it to keep you safe.” His hand searched for hers, warmth guiding him like a beacon.

The fact that her dad, Lilu, whatever his name was, had shared more with Rafe didn’t make matters any better. Then again, she hadn’t been too receptive. A deep sigh pushed through her lips. “I know. I just need time.”

Nodding, Rafe took her in his arms. With a brush of a stubborn lock of hair, he smiled. A breath of sheer contentment flowed from her mouth as she snuggled closer to him. Who would’ve known such a rock-solid behemoth of a man could be so gentle.

“I’ve come up with a compromise.”

She glanced up at him with a bemused quirk. “A compromise for what?”

Hands gripping her shoulders, his gaze burned into hers. “You can fight.”

“Really?”

“Yes…” He scratched his chin, thought clouding his eyes.

Here comes the “but.”

“Spit it out.” She tossed a rogue lock of hair from her cheek.

“You can fight only if you’re in danger and your life depends on it.” With that, he reached for the book and pulled it open. Pointing to a long katana, he smiled. “This will be a good weapon to match your martial arts skills.”

Skills she didn’t have to train to acquire. Granted it wasn’t reading minds or poofing here and there, but coupled with the Latin, she couldn’t have asked for any better talents. “Sounds good. So where do I get one?”

“I’ll have Kalli get one for you.” Rafe flipped the page. “Hopefully it can be prepared in time.”