No Broomsticks Allowed, page 16
Azrael wiped a tear away. Lance lifted his hand as if to touch her but then dropped it to his side.
“And if I don’t want to stop, what then?”
“Then I will give you what I can.”
She nodded. “I guess that will have to be enough.”
His eyes widened. “Why? Why would you do that?”
“Because it’s too late to do anything else.”
“Don’t say—”
Azrael cut him off. “Don’t say what? How I feel? How about you let me feel what I feel and not try to judge me for it or ignore that it’s there? Isn’t that what you are asking me to do? Accept how you feel, or the lack thereof, for a better explanation?”
“Azrael, I didn’t mean to upset you,” Lance said, laying a hand on her shoulder.
“I know you didn’t. I’m glad you told me. I am. Just give me some time to process.”
“Okay,” he whispered, his expression that of an abashed child. “Just please don’t think this means I’m not trying. I’ll do my best to make you happy.”
“That’s all I ask for then.”
Azrael stood on her tippy toes to kiss him on the cheek. Lance turned his head, meeting her mouth. This kiss was different. There was a passion to it, but it was more caring, more loving.
He broke the kiss off and pulled her into his chest. “Come on, let’s get inside before this storm blows in.”
~*~
“So, let me get this straight,” Caleb said, pouring them a drink. “You and demon boy are getting each other’s rocks off, and you’re calling this what, exactly?”
“Complicated is the first thing that comes to mind,” Azrael replied, leaning back in the hot tub as Caleb handed her a glass. Lance had needed to go into town to drop off deposits and grocery shop, giving her and Caleb some much-needed alone time.
“People who are in complicated relationships rarely walk around with silly grins on their faces. The two of you have been acting like you’re on cloud nine since you came back. The loving can’t possibly be that good.”
Azrael rolled her head toward him and grinned.
“Okay, that’s it. Spill it. I bet he’s huge. Plus, he’s had so many lovers—he’s got to be a pro with that tongue.”
The grin slipped off Azrael’s face. Somehow she’d managed to forget he was pretty much a whore in his past. She guzzled the last of her drink and set it down.
“Crap, baby girl. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have brought that up.”
“It’s fine. I’m getting used to all the crap that comes with being with Lance.”
“I hate to ask this, but is he worth it? I mean, I’ll take your word for it that the foreplay is fantastic, but his murdering brother is after you, you two can’t have sex, and he’s admitted that he can’t get past his ex. You know me, Az, I’m all for relationships with no strings attached, but you’re not that kind of girl.”
“I can handle it,” she said, filling up her glass. “The way things are going, I may not even survive the rest of this week. Right now, I’m just going to take what I get and enjoy it.”
Caleb filled his own glass and raised it in the air. “To taking what you want.”
Azrael smiled and tipped her own glass against his. For a while, they drank in silence, enjoying the heavy jets massaging their bodies. Tomorrow she would meet with her ex. To her surprise, Garrin not only answered her call but practically purred when she asked him if they could get together at his place. Of course, she didn’t mention she’d be bringing an extra guest. According to Lance, there was no way in hell she was going alone.
For the first time since they’d broken up, she felt nothing but pity for Garrin. Although he was a shallow ass, he didn’t deserve to be dragged into this situation. Maybe her lack of rage had to do with the fact Lance was keeping her very satisfied.
“I need to get laid,” Caleb said, looking up at the ceiling. “Your boyfriend—”
“Lover.”
“Your lover has a lot of rules about his home. One is no guests. If we continue staying here, Az, I might die from need.”
“Well, maybe celibacy is the one thing that will work to help you get over your agoraphobia,” she teased.
“Did I ever tell you you’re kind of mean?”
“All the time.”
Caleb threw his arm around her shoulders and gave her a squeeze. “Just try to keep yourself from getting hurt. If you can’t, I’m always here to pick up the pieces.”
“Thanks, Caleb,” she said. “Keep a trash bag ready because I get the feeling this will end up in one hell of a mess.”
Chapter 25
Azrael was thankful Garrin had given her the gate code, so she didn’t have to explain her “chauffeur.” Although she couldn’t imagine anyone looking less chauffer-ish than Lance. The outfit he’d rented was too tight and looked ready to burst at the seams over his biceps. Between that and the way he held himself—jaws clenched, muscles tight—he seemed more like a mix between a male stripper and a cop.
They pulled into the driveway.
“So, you ready to do this?” she asked, chewing on her bottom lip. Lance was not happy about waiting in the car, but it was the best plan they’d come up with. Azrael would go in, talk a bit, try to get a tour, and find out where the stone was. When she found it, she’d text Lance, who would sneak in and steal it. Easy as that—she hoped.
“I don’t like this, Azrael. Something feels wrong,” he said, hands tight on the steering wheel.
“You’re just being overprotective. It’s going to go fine. I know Garrin. He’s an egotistical jerk, but he’s not a bad guy.”
“You have the pepper spray I gave you?”
“Yes. In my purse.” Azrael sighed. It was cute how jealous he was, but also unnecessary.
“If he lays one finger on you—”
“I know, I know. Spray him. Now, can I please go in? It looks weird me sitting out here arguing with my chauffeur.”
“Fine. But I’ll be watching.”
“I don’t doubt that,” Azrael mumbled, opening the door. Before she slipped out, Lance grabbed her arm.
“Hey…,” he said, his eyes full of concern. “Please be careful. I don’t want anything to happen to you.”
“I promise.”
Azrael shut the door and made her way up the stone steps.
~*~
Garrin opened the door, grinning at her with his perfect white teeth, sun-bleached hair pulled back in a low ponytail.
“Azrael,” he said, gathering her in his arms. “How I’ve missed you.”
“I’ve—uh, I’ve missed you too,” she replied, giving him a loose hug, groaning when she heard the car door slam behind her.
“Who’s that?” Garrin asked.
Azrael turned around. Lance was standing outside of the car, leaning against the passenger side, arms crossed over his chest, eyes hidden beneath dark glasses.
“That’s just my chauffeur. You know, from the trip I won.” Azrael gave Lance a dark look.
“Huh. Looks more like a bodyguard to me.” Garrin put his hand on the small of her back, steering her toward the house. “Guess they thought of everything. How did you win the trip to Demonium?”
“I, um…an online thing.”
“Well, regardless, I’ll consider it a lucky break for me. I thought I might never see you again.” Garrin pushed the door shut and turned, gave her one of his one-hundred-watt smiles, and placed a hand on her shoulder. “I wanted to apologize for what I did. I never thought that photo would upset you. You’re such a beautiful woman, Azrael. It seemed unfair to not share it with the world.”
Yeah, unfair to the world, not me. What a pompous asshole.
“Why don’t we just move past that?” she asked through gritted teeth. “We can’t change the past.”
“Exactly.” He said, giving her shoulder a light squeeze. “And I promise it won’t happen again.”
That’s because you won’t ever get the chance to see me naked again.
“Thanks.”
“Now, how about I give you a grand tour of my home?”
“That sounds great.”
While Garrin showed her around, babbling on about his historic item collection, Azrael tried to figure out what had drawn her to him in the first place. Sure, he was sexy. Who wouldn’t desire those lean muscles or that confident physique? Not to mention the charming smile and perfect ass. Azrael gazed at the back of his tailored jeans with a surge of guilt.
Okay, so what, he’s hot, and I looked. He’s not half the man Lance is, though.
She nodded her head, feigning interest. It wasn’t until they got to the sitting room on the first floor that she no longer had to pretend.
“And I think you’ll recognize this piece,” he said, waving his hand toward the coffee table. On it sat a large purple stone with pearlescent facets on the side.
That stupid bastard. He’s left the clarity stone sitting on his living room table, balcony door wide open. Azrael had to choke back a laugh. You’ve got to be kidding me.
“The clarity stone,” she said, trying to sound nonchalant.
Garrin gave her a crooked grin. “Of course. I don’t imagine this piece would be of much interest to you now, considering you see it so often.”
“Well, it’s still a nice piece.”
“Aren’t you a little curious why I have it, though?” he asked, angling his head to the side.
Crap! I’m horrible at this undercover thing. Should have acted surprised.
“Yes, I am very curious, but I’m a little tired and thirsty from the trip. Do you have anything to drink?”
“I’m sorry. I should have offered you one first. Why don’t we go sit in the kitchen and enjoy a couple of glasses of wine?” He walked off without letting her answer, obviously expecting her to follow.
Don’t look at his ass, don’t look at his ass.
Azrael followed him. When they reached the kitchen, she set her purse down. “Do you have a restroom I can use?”
“Sure. It’s down that hall. Last door on the left,” he answered, pointing to the hallway across from them. “I’ll pour us some drinks while waiting.”
She nodded and stepped to the bathroom, closing and locking the door behind her. Azrael pulled out her phone and typed a text to Lance.
It’s in the sitting room on the table. Balcony door is open. We will be in the kitchen. Text me when you have it.
Lance’s response was swift. That sounds easy, too easy. Something about this feels wrong. Please be careful.
She stared at the phone, not understanding Lance’s apprehension. In all honesty, this was working out a lot better than planned. Maybe he was paranoid because he was so used to things being hard. Azrael tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear and went to meet Garrin in the kitchen.
Garrin was sitting in a chair, leaned back, a glass of chardonnay in his hand. He was staring out the large window leading to the veranda, eyes glazed. She didn’t think he even noticed her presence until she pulled out the chair beside him.
“Hey there,” he said, handing her a glass. “Sorry, I was daydreaming.”
“I’m no stranger to you zoning out.” She immediately regretted bringing up something she remembered from when they dated.
“I’m surprised you haven’t blocked those memories out completely.”
Azrael swallowed. She’d tried to do just that but was apparently less successful than she thought. “No, not completely.”
Garrin gave her a soft smile, his gaze drawn to the window again. She studied his profile, noting the crinkles around his eyes. Somehow, he appeared older than his thirty-two years. The silence grew, making her nervous. It was unusual for Garrin to not start a conversation, to act so serious.
Lance has made me paranoid.
“So, last I heard, you were dating Lindsey Barrett,” she said, trying to start a conversation.
“I don’t really date anyone, Azrael. Or at least there’s no one I’ve wanted to date. You being the exception, of course, but that wouldn’t have worked out.” He took another swig out of his glass, eyes still glued to the window.
“What? Why would you think that?” Azrael set her drink down. The ice clinked against the glass, setting her nerves on edge. Maybe she shouldn’t have been so quick to brush off Lance’s concerns. Something seemed off.
But Garrin is as harmless as a bug.
They’d dated, slept together. He wasn’t a stranger, wasn’t a bad guy.
Then why does this feel wrong?
“Has anyone ever told you that you are a bad judge of character?”
Azrael froze, her heart skidding to an abrupt stop. He turned to look at her, his eyes cold and uncaring. Her heart rate picked up, beating double time. This wasn’t the Garrin she knew. She edged closer to her purse and reached down. His eyes slid from her face to the hand dangling above the open handbag.
“Looking for something?” he asked, pulling the bottle of pepper spray out of his pocket. “This stuff can be painful, Azrael. It’s best if I keep it safe.”
Staring at the can, she swallowed. In a few minutes, Lance would have the stone and would worry when she didn’t respond to his text. She just needed to stall until then. “Are you trying to tell me I’ve judged you wrong?”
“Oh, most definitely.”
“I think I should go,” she said, standing.
“I’m afraid that’s not going to be an option.” Garrin set his glass down. As he did, a shrill alarm started blaring. “Ah, our guest has arrived.”
Lance, she thought, turning and running toward the sitting room. She heard Garrin’s footsteps following her.
Chapter 26
Lance cowered on the floor, eyes burning with hatred as sparks of white light surrounded him. He jolted forward when he saw Azrael, his hand touching the electric web of power, and screamed. She ran to him. He must have seen the intent in her eyes, the panicked look of determination, because he yelled, “No! Stay away!”
“I can’t leave you in there,” she argued, looking around the room for anything to break the trapping spell.
“Just get out of here! Go!”
“Oh, I wouldn’t recommend that,” Garrin said as he strolled into the room, hands shoved into his pockets. “That’s not the only trap I set today. Plus, I dare say I’ve been dying to meet the infamous Lance Jenkins. We wouldn’t want her to miss what I have in store for you.”
“Let him go, Garrin. He’s done nothing to you. I asked him to get the stone for me.”
He ran his tongue over his teeth. “Is that so? Well, by all means then, I’ll set him free.”
Garrin tugged what looked like a silver keychain out of his pocket and pointed it at Lance. One click later, the web of light surrounding him disappeared. Lance stood slowly, his eyes locked on Garrin, and moved to stand between him and Azrael.
“You don’t have to do that,” Garrin said, giving him a cocky grin. “I have no intention of hurting her.”
Azrael licked her lips. “Look, Garrin. Can we please sit down and talk? I’ll explain everything. We only needed the crystal because my life is in danger. We meant no harm to you.”
“I know why you came. I know a lot more than either of you could possibly imagine.”
“How do you know who I am? Are you working for Blais?” Lance asked, his eyes narrowed.
Flicking a piece of lint off his shirt, Garrin chuckled. Azrael cut her eyes to Lance. His face mirrored hers. If Garrin was working for Blais, they were in trouble. That meant Blais might be on his way, might be here right now. Lance mouthed the word, “Run.”
Azrael turned, preparing to do just that, when Garrin looked back up, his face contorted into a menacing sneer. “No. Unlike you, I don’t work for murderers.”
Lance became stiff. “I’ve never hurt anyone.”
“Oh, is that so?” Garrin waltzed across the floor, closing the distance between them. “Is that what you tell yourself at night? What you say when you visit Sarah’s grave?”
A clock chimed somewhere in the house. Azrael watched as the two men stood eye to eye, Garrin with his fists clenched to his sides. Lance, face pale, eyes furious with pain. She didn’t see it coming, but Garrin must have because when Lance charged at him, he sidestepped the attack. Lance stumbled forward, and Garrin moved with a swiftness she’d never imagined he had. Grabbing Lance by the collar with one hand, he rammed a fist into his back. The only thing louder than the thud of the impact was the whooshing sound Lance made as the air was knocked out of him.
Azrael rushed over to the two men, her heart galloping, mind racing. She had no plan, only knew she needed to stop Garrin, who had rolled Lance over, fists raised. She threw herself on his back, yanking with all her might, trying to pull him away. He was too strong. His fist slammed into Lance’s face. Once. Twice. A third time. She began to scream.
Lance moaned. His eyes became slits, his mouth hung slack, and red welts dotted his cheeks and forehead. Garrin raised his fists again. She did the only thing she could think to do. Leaning in, she placed her mouth on his shoulder and bit him hard. He yelped and jumped up. She tightened her arms and wrapped her legs around him. Azrael bit down harder and tasted blood.
She didn’t see his plan until it was too late. He lunged into the wall backward, pinning her against the hard stone, causing her to break her hold and cry out. Garrin flung her to the floor.
Hurt and breathless, she crawled toward Lance, hoping to get between the two. Lance was laying on the floor, barely conscious. Sweat rolled down her forehead and stung her eyes. She was prepared to fight if needed, but Garrin seemed to have lost interest in the two of them. Instead, he was pacing around the stone, shaking his head, jaws clenched.
“Wake up. Please wake up.” Azrael shook Lance, and he moaned. If someone had told her Garrin was tough enough to take out Lance, she wouldn’t have believed him. Garrin, at least the Garrin she knew, no longer existed. This man was a monster. “Lance, you have to wake up. He’s crazy, and he’ll kill us both.”
