He’s ethereal, alright…right up until he opens that condescending mouth of his.

I give him my best glare.

“Right, well, this is my Library, and now you’re in it. So you can either listen or leave and go somewhere else.” I stare the arrogant Fae down, my annoyance rising.

His eyes widen, glinting with irritation. A slight grit to his teeth before he opens his mouth, a mocking grin spreading across his face.

“This is what I mean. You don’t even know something so basic.”

I turn to him fully, my eyes narrowing toward the arrogant Fae. Where did he think he was to be speaking to me like that?

“Well, if you have some new information, maybe you should share it with the class.” I wave my hand in a mock imitation of his.

His eyes narrow toward me, a red tinge to his pearlescent cheeks. “You—”

“As amusing as it is watching this little squabble.” Tall, dark, and dangerous steps forth, cutting him short.

“I believe I could be of more help to the lady.” He looks toward me, a bemused tilt to his lips and a dark glint in his eyes.

Moving slowly toward me as if I were prey he was trying to pacify, he places his hand out, gesturing for my own. I subconsciously place my hand in his just as he pulls it slowly to his lips, placing a gentle kiss on the back, his eyes an intense stare, unmoving from my own.

My heartbeat picks up a beat as he slowly pulls back, his eyes never leaving me, as a knowing smile broadens his face. A more mischievous twinkle in them than before.

“You may call me Lucien.”

I open my mouth to speak, just as my hand is yanked to the side.

Isaac places himself in front of me in a protective stance, blocking my view of beguiling Lucifer— I mean Lucien.

My brows furrow toward Isaac. He knows better than anyone else that I could handle myself.

“Hey…why don't we all calm down? I think we’ve all seen enough conflict for the day.” A man of similar stature but with a more athletic build, steps beside Lucien and Isaac.

My eyes meet the pacifier. Deep amber eyes pull me toward them, surrounded by sun-kissed skin, and framed by short curly brown locks.

He pauses when our eyes meet and draws in a breath. It hitches a bit before he slowly drags his gaze down my body, leaving a burning trail at every curve.

I clear my throat, pulling his roving eyes to mine.

He gives me a sheepish grin before shaking his head and flashing me a heart-stopping smile.

I grin, his smile becoming contagious.

“I’m Jace. And you are?” His stare is glued to my lips, waiting for my answer like a puppy begging for treats.

“I’m Rhys.” Jace's smile becomes wider at my name. “Rhys,” he mumbles, his gaze and smile never leaving me.

I clear my throat, looking at the group again, and noticing people with injuries.