Page 116 of Protected in Darkness
“I assume it’s your preference to keep the male within the ranks.”
Obsidian nodded. “Yes.”
Once again, Michael paced, as though standing still was too difficult for him.
Knowing better than to speak when not spoken to, Obsidian waited him out.
“I’ll concede your request, under one condition.”
“Anything.”
“You are to undergo thelintamairwith your female this fortnight.”
Obsidian knew that fourteen days from now was the next full moon.
“Provided my female’s ready,” he stated, unable to commit unless Penelope was onboard.
Michael’s gaze bounced over his face. “Are you telling me you’ll put youramsouelot’sdesires over the livelihood of your soldier?”
Obsidian didn’t look away. “I’m telling you I’ll put myamsouelotover anyone and anything.”
“And if I command it?”
“I hope it doesn’t come to that,” Obsidian told him. “Because yes, I will put her needs above your command.”
For a moment, he expected Michael to strike him down. Instead, the archangel surprised him with a knowing smile.
“She’ll be ready, warrior. Of that, I am positive.” Michael relaxed somewhat. “I do not envy what you must do, but I know it’s what’s best for this mission.”
Obsidian nodded. “And Reidar?”
The archangel sighed. “I’ll grant him his request. He may remain within thefiestreighfor as long as he proves his worth. I’ll look to you to decide otherwise.”
“Thank you.”
With a quick nod, Michael disappeared.
For several long minutes, Obsidian remained where he was, staring at the empty space and wondering what Michael had meant when he’d said Penelope would be ready. He got the distinct feeling the archangel was going to have a hand in how this played out.
“OH,MYGOD!” PENELOPESQUEALEDWHENSHEfound Winnie sitting in the second floor game room. “You’re really here!”
Winnie shot to her feet and rushed over, embracing Penelope in a welcoming hug. “I’m here! And you’re here!”
Her friend looked the same as always, although she’d go so far as to say the woman was glowing. Her shoulder-length brown hair was pulled back at the crown of her head, green eyes glittering almost as much as the tiny diamond chips in her ears.
Penelope had to admit, there was a tremendous relief seeing her friend. Not only because they’d been apart for so long but because she’d been worried about her. Not to mention, she’d been in need of a friend. Someone she could talk to about what was going on with Obsidian. It wasn’t that the angels and the Fae weren’t welcoming, because they were. But to be fair, she had little in common with them.
“This place is amazing,” Winnie said, glancing around when they stepped apart. “And it’s massive. I mean…” Winnie motioned toward the high ceilings.
“You haven’t seen anything yet.” Penelope directed Winnie toward the sofa with a wave of her hand. “Sit. Tell me everything that’s happened.”
“Well, I met this amazing guy,” Winnie said, her face beaming.
“Reidar?”
Winnie nodded. “He’s… Oh, God, Penelope. I don’t even know how to explain it. I’ve known him for only a few days and yet…”
Penelope chuckled. “You don’t have to explain it. I totally get it.”
