The kiss was like fire. His lips on mine ignited something deep inside. Nix and Megan both purred; their combined rumble vibrated in my throat. Rowan groaned as my own purr escaped my lips. He reached for me, but the movement jolted me from the trance.

I growled, ripping my lips away and punching him. Rowan stumbled back, clutching his face. I glared as he straightened, a flicker of shock on his face that morphed into a smirk. He fucking smirked. Rising to his full height, his smirk widened into a full smile as he approached. His lip was split, but he casually wiped the blood away with his thumb. "You hit me," he murmured, his voice low. But his eyes had shifted; he looked like the predator he was, his fangs sliding into place. "You actually hit me."

I took an involuntary step back, but his chuckle straightened my spine. "You deserved it," I retorted, stepping forward, refusing to retreat. "You kissed me."

He nodded, leaning closer. "I did. And I'll do it again."

A growl rose in my throat. "Like hell you will." I advanced, getting in his face, my finger digging into his chest. "You don't get to kiss me. You have a fiancée, remember? I don't share men, first and foremost." A growl rumbled in his chest. I bared my teeth, fangs descending to match his. "More importantly, THOTH, I don't want you anywhere near me. All you fucking do is lie, and I'm over it."

I watched his face cycle through a million emotions before settling on seriousness. His eyes dimmed slightly, but his fangs remained. "I know," he said. My face fell; I'd expected a fight. He smiled, watching my expression. "I can't deny anything you said. But I hope you'll have a meal with me, and let me explain before you make any permanent decisions."

I glared. "I'm not hungry." His face fell slightly, but then a knock came at the door. I opened it. "What?" I snapped, before recognizing the visitor. I inhaled, my voice softening. "I'm sorry, Clara, what do you need?" I stared at the trembling omega.

"I'm sorry to bother you, Amy. But Cass asked me to bring you dinner. She said you were starving, so I brought enough for two." She attempted a smile, but her wariness remained.

I closed my eyes as a soft chuckle came from behind me. "Come in, Clara, thank you." I widened the door, directing her to the table by the balcony. Rowan sat down, turning away to conceal his smile.

"Hello, my King," Clara murmured softly. I wanted to roll my eyes.

"Clara, I've told you… call me Rowan," I said, my eyebrows furrowing.

"I know, my king," Clara smiled. "And when you were just Thoth, it was fine to call you by your name. But as soon as I found out who you were… well, you are my king."

He sighed. "Can you do me a favor?"

"Of course, my king." She set down several plates.

"Do you have any matches or a lighter?" His question was so unexpected, I gaped.

"Of course." She retrieved a small box from her cart, handing it to Rowan. "There you are."

"Thank you." He turned to the cart. "Do you have anything to drink?"

Clara smiled. "Of course. I have water, wine, and juice." She looked at me. "I wasn't sure what you and Cass had in mind." She surveyed the room. "Is Cass coming later?"

I started to answer, but Rowan spoke first. "Cass was kind enough to let me steal Amy tonight. We have things to discuss, and air to clear before I leave." His words hit me, but I maintained a straight face. "So it's just Amy and I until I get the boot." He smiled; Clara's face flushed crimson. She nodded and finished unpacking the cart.

"Have a good night then, my king." She bowed and hurried from the room. "You as well, Amy," she called back, and I snorted.

That was cruel. I shook my head, closing the door.

"What was?" His voice was confused.

"You made the girl blush and acted like she had a candlelit table, a chance." I took a deep breath before turning to face him, only to find…