Page 5 of Fae's Mate
“I… no, I just don’t drink alcohol.”
“Ah, water then.”
“Thank you.”
I take an empty glass and allow the rare tingle across my skin, summoning water using my magic. I peek up and see her face filled with awe. It seems odd to me that this minor act should impress her when my ancestors could summon tidal waves. Then I remember that this is likely the first time she has seen magic.
She takes the glass tentatively when I hand it to her, and sips from it slowly. “Sit,” I encourage, gesturing to the empty seat in front of my desk.
When she does, I walk around the large wooden table and sit opposite her. Sipping from my glass, I let the silence continue a moment, curiosity stilling my tongue. Now we are alone, I feel able to look upon her without interruption. I take in her silky black hair, her dark wide eyes and pale flawless skin. She is a good foot shorter than me, but I am a tall male, so that is not surprising. I wonder if she feels this tension too? Like a bow string pulled back, ready to loose.
“I wish to know your name,” I tell her eventually.
“Seki… what’s yours?” she asks, linking her ankles together, sitting up straight.
“A name is a powerful thing,” I reply with a smirk. She gave me hers so easily.
“You won’t tell me?”
“Not yet.” I sip again from my glass. “Tell me, Seki, I would like to know what you do in the human realm.”
She considers me for a moment before answering. “Why should I tell you anything?”
My lip twitches into a sly smile, which I hide behind my hand, pretending to rub the stubble along my jaw. “Because I am High Lord of Autumn Court, I expect all my subjects to answer me, should I ask them a question.”
“But I’m not one of your subjects. I’m not a fae.”
“Yes, but you are currently residing in my court.”
“Not by choice,” she argues.
“Perhaps not, but you wish for you and your friends to remain safe and protected while you are here, I’m sure.” A hollow threat.
“They aren’t my friends.” She says. I raise an eyebrow at her, her words catching me off guard. “Are all fae friends?”
“I suppose not.” I reply, swirling the drink in my glass.
“The same as all humans, are not friends. I’ve met none of them before today.”
Interesting…
“Very well… you may ask me five questions. For each one I answer, you must answer one of mine.”
“Like… a deal?”
I nod.
“I was advised not to make a deal with you.”
“You may refuse if you wish.”
She stares at me silently for a moment, and the anticipation makes my heart falter. “No,” she whispers finally.
“Very well. Ask your first question.”
Sipping my drink, I wait while she decides what to ask.
“Are you able to lie?”
