Page 6 of Shattered Magic

“You have my number?”

“I do.”

“Have a good evening.” Lorry reached out to pat her on the shoulder.

There was a blur, and Zerul was there and holding his wrist. “No contact, please.”

Lorry stared at him. “Right. Of course. Good evening, Hari. Sir.”

Hari nodded, and Zerul let him go.

She looked up at him. “You know, if you hadn’t been creeping into my dreams for five years, I would be out the door by now.”

“Well, it is good that I am fed from your sleeping thoughts.”

“I thought you looked perky.”

He grinned and stroked her jaw. She blushed. “Not in the waking world, Zerul.”

His eyes showed delight. “You have kept your memories.”

“Yes, well. Shut up.”

He laughed and hugged her carefully.

She smelled him, and without her being covered in blood, he smelled nice. She remained in his embrace until he released her.

“So, you have figured out what you are?”

“Sure. It was pretty easy.” She smiled. “The hybrid aspect was the difficult part.”

“It is a good weapon. I am glad you have it. If it can’t defend, it can punish.”

She leaned back. “So, I thought you were getting ready for the big party this weekend.”

He snorted. “I felt the pan leave the wall.”

“Oh. Yeah. That is sensible.”

“You are going to the gym?”

“I am. I need to work some tension out. I really wanted to beat them into paste.”

“Of course you did. I expect nothing less, Anhara.”

“So, you are planning the party again?”

His lips quirked. “Yes. I do hope you are coming.”

“Sorry. I think I work that day. I certainly don’t want to get a gown or accept one. I have learned my lesson.”

“What if I promise you that there is no chance of a repeat of the previous events?”

“Still don’t have an interest in going. Nothing to wear. That kind of outfit is a waste of money.” She shrugged. “Useless, and the blood doesn’t come out.”

He grimaced. “You looked lovely in it.”

“You have strange taste.”