Oh, I like that far too much.

He continued to massage the spot as his thigh moved subtly between her legs. So strange, and yet good.

“You provide a new explorative opportunity,” he continued, his voice low. “Which is something I consider a rarity at my age.”

“Because I’m a Seraphim.”

“Yes.” He trailed his nose across her cheekbone as he inhaled. “Your arousal is intoxicating, angel.”

His lips went to her neck to press an open-mouthed kiss against her pulse. It left her shaking uncontrollably.

More.

Adrenaline seemed to mount inside her, but she didn’t know how to release it. Everything felt so impactful and stimulating. Better than a fight, but more draining than a run. The perplexity floored her. She craved more of this exquisite confusion.

“All right,” she whispered. “I agree to your terms of seven hours of my time in exchange for information on your father’s location.”

“Mmm.” He nipped her throat before pushing back and retrieving her blades from the floor. She almost felt cold without him pressed up against her, yet his eyes kept her warm as they trailed over her skin.

Sethios held out her two weapons. “You’ll wear these and only these in my bed.”

She blinked. “Excuse me?”

Caro had worn a ceremonial robe with Adriel. He hadn’t even seen her thighs—just lifted the fabric, fulfilled his obligation, and left while she waited for the seed to root inside her. She’d done everything she could to ensure it would work the first time so she didn’t have to experience it again. Her due diligence benefited Adriel as well; male Seraphim weren’t keen on the emotional weakness associated with sexual climax.

“You wanted your toys returned and I’m granting them, but your clothes remain here.” He twirled the blades with a skill that indicated training. “Your choice, angel.”

She licked her lips. “I want my knives.”

“Then I want your clothes.”

She stared at him. “That’s—”

“Not practical,” he finished for her. “To you, perhaps, but I’ll show you just why it’s practical once you disrobe.” He continued shifting the dagger between his fingers with expert skill as he studied her. “I’m done debating. Either agree or don’t.”

“Fine,” she replied. “I accept your irrational request.” Nudity never bothered her. She kicked off her boots, yanked off her already unfastened jeans, removed her blouse and undergarments, and then held out her hand. “Knives.”

His lips twitched. “Eager to fight me, darling?”

No. He proved himself more than capable when he pinned her against the wall. A half-breed should not boast that kind of strength, but Osiris’s bloodline superseded her own. And apparently, his son inherited similar talents.

“I wish to finish our agreement so I may go on my way.”

“Do you now?” He flipped the sharp items in his hand and held the handles out to her. “My bedroom is down the hall. I’ll meet you there in five minutes.”

She eyed him curiously. “You do not wish to start now?”