Page 101 of Demon's Beauty

As the visit comes to a close and we prepare to leave, my mother escorts us to the entry hall.

“Your work will keep you here for a few days?” she asks.

Soleil nods. “Three, at least.”

“Good.” Ma gives her a farewell hug. “Then you must come for one more visit before you leave. To say goodbye.”

“We will,” I tell her softly.

Soleil steps over the threshold, wandering a few steps away from the house—ostensibly to look at the city view, but if I know my witch and the way her mind works, also to give me and my mother the chance for a few words.

Ma wraps her arms around me and leans in to speak low enough so only I can hear. “She’s marvelous, Finn. Take care of her and keep her close.”

“I will,” I say, with no idea how or if I’ll be able to hold myself to that promise.

Ellery bounds down the stairs to give her own parting words, embraces both me and Soleil, and then we’re off into the Gales Harbor night.

It’s still early, by my standards for staying out carousing.

But after her long day, I’m sure Soleil could use some rest.

I’m just about to suggest it, to take her hand and open us a portal back to the inn, when she gasps.

“Look at that!”

She points skyward, and I chuckle at the wonder in her eyes and in her voice as she watches a pair of demons mid-flight, gliding gracefully over the city.

“They’re up so high,” she says breathlessly.

“I’ve flown higher.”

She laughs and rolls her eyes. “Sure you have.”

We watch in silence for a few moments before they disappear behind a row of buildings.

Soleil glances over at me. “I haven’t seen many demons flying around since I got here. Is there a reason for that?”

“It’s the portals, mostly. Much more efficient than using our wings. Flying is more a recreational activity these days than anything.”

Soleil eyes my wings, and I can’t help letting them spread a little.

I can’t help the shot of pride that spears through me, either.

How could I, when she’s looking at me like that?

Eyes wide, gaze raking over me, mouth falling open on an awed inhale.

And her scent.

Goddess, her scent.

Even out here with the night breeze swirling around us, it’s thick enough to make my mouth water. Rich copper and earth, the light floral remnants of the soaps she used in the bath, the deep, dark note of something else.

Something delicious.

That note sings brighter when I step forward, flare my wings wider, open my arms to her and grin.

“I’d love to fly us back down to the city.”