Twenty-six

Twenty-six

DESI

Jace's loud-as-hell yelling wakes me from a deep sleep, and I shoot up in bed, my hair out of control and my tank top twisted. I spring to my feet and without bothering to right my clothing, sprint to his room and fling the door open.

"Jace, what the hell happened? Are you okay?" I exclaim, my chest rising and falling as my panic mounts.

He's jumping up and down on his bed with his phone in his hand. His hair is standing in every direction, and he wears a smile so bright it's lighting up the room. "Edmonds is going to sign!"

He holds his hand out to me and I timidly place my fingers against his. The next thing I know, we're holding hands and jumping on his bed together. I've never seen him let his guard down and give in to his happiness the way he is right now.

This moment with Jace is so wildly different from the one we shared in the gym a few days ago. We've talked since, watched a movie or two, eaten meals together, but that moment where he held me close like he was never going to get to touch me again was the last emotionally charged interaction we've had until now.

"Jace, I'm so happy for you!" I exclaim, giggling when he pulls me against him and tickles my ribs.

"It's thanks to you, Desideria, I swear," he says, and our jumping slows until we're standing a few inches away from each other. "Matt never would have talked me up so much if it weren't for you."

I shake my head. "You did all the work. You deserve all the credit. Not me."

"But—" His smile falters a bit and the light in his eyes dulls just a shade. "I need one more favor from you."

"Okay?"

"Matt didn't just talk me up during our video conference call yesterday. He mentioned you to Edmonds. And he wants to meet you since Matt sang your praises. It looks like I'm going to need my girlfriend one more time."

"Of course I'll help. What day is your meeting?"

Jace runs his hand over the back of his neck and looks away from me. "We're signing the papers at Matt's office. Which is in New York. Next week." He looks at me and flashes an innocent smile that has me going gooey on the inside. "I know your time is running short, Desi, and I understand if you can't. Not to mention, you just drew your line in the sand, and here I am not only leaping over it but completely obliterating it with a long weekend in New York City."

"Jace, stop. I'll go."

He looks at me as if I just spoke a language he's never heard. "What? Just like that?"

"Yeah, you dork. Just like that. You're my friend. You've done more for me in the past two months than I can count. I wouldn't deny you this, not when it's the last step to making your dream come true! The big city, right? The one with all the tall buildings and the green lady with the torch?"

He laughs and nods. "That's the one."

"That sounds like fun. Will we have time to do touristy stuff too? You'll be able to take me places?"

His features soften and he nods. "We'll have time to do some sightseeing. I'm sure we can visit the green lady. So you're in? You'll pretend to be my girlfriend one last time?"

The words one last time open a chasm in my heart that I do everything in my power to ignore. "Consider me your adoring significant other. It's not a hard part to play, ya know."

His cheeks turn a soft shade of pink and he clears his throat. "Oh, also . . . if you want to get two separate rooms, we can. I don't want to make you uncomfortable."

I know I should take him up on it, that it's the "smart" thing to do, but I'd like to spend time with my friend and not sleep alone in a strange city. "That's not necessary. We're adults who've spent plenty of time together in intimate situations. Sleeping in the same bed won't be a big deal. We did it in Infernis, we can do it again. Besides, it'll ruin the guise of being boyfriend and girlfriend if we're caught going to separate rooms."

"Thank you. Not just for this but for everything you've done to help me. I promise to make the trip worth it."

I curse the fluttering that happens in my belly when I smile and say, "I have absolutely no doubt that you will."

A week later I'm yawning and dragging my rolling suitcase down the stairs at four thirty, silently cursing Jace for booking such an early flight.

Speaking of, there he is at the island, eating a bowl of peanut butter puff cereal, looking bright eyed and awake behind his glasses. He's wearing jeans that hug his ass and a tight red sweater that somehow brings out the stormy gray in his eyes.

This is going to be a long trip.

"Good morning, princess," he says, raising his eyebrow, and I don't miss how his gaze runs up and down my body. It's not just the way he looks at me that sends shivers up and down my spine. He hasn't called me princess for over a week. I missed hearing his endearments for me, but there's one in particular that I miss. I wonder if he'll ever call me little hurricane again.

Even though nothing can come of it, I'm suddenly glad I went for the dressier outfit—my dark skinny jeans, ivory sweater with a V-neck low enough to show some cleavage, and boots that come almost to my knees. My curls are loose and wild around my shoulders, but my face is bare; no time for makeup before a flight this early.

"Morning, sunshine," I grumble, grabbing a bottle of water from the fridge and taking a sip. "You're awfully chipper this morning."

"What can I say, I'm excited." He may be excited but the bowl of peanut butter puffs instead of his grotesque morning concoction tells me he's nervous too. He swallows another big bite and says, "I could hardly sleep last night. I got up at three and went for a run."

"Sometimes I wonder about you, Jace Wilder."

"And in those thoughts, do I have my clothes on or off?" He scrunches his face and shovels a spoonful of cereal into his mouth. "Sorry. That was inappropriate. I got caught up in playing the part of adoring boyfriend."

We're going to get into so much trouble. Then again, isn't everyone in New York expecting to see a happy couple? I suppose it doesn't hurt to start acting the part now. At least that's what I'm telling myself.

I grin and lean forward on the island, my V-neck dipping low enough to show him my lace bra and a glimpse of my mark beneath it. "Off. Almost always off."

The relieved expression on his face sends a warm sensation through my bloodstream. "Exactly how I imagine you," he says with a wink.

Shaking my head, I say, "Come on, babe, don't you think we should be going now?"

Jace takes the last bite of his cereal, washes his bowl, and says, "Hold on, one sec. I have to brush my teeth first. I wouldn't want my girlfriend to have to deal with peanut butter puff breath. Disgusting." He disappears up to his room and comes back five minutes later with a toiletry bag that he stuffs into his suitcase. "All right, I'm ready."

"Breath check," I say, putting my hands on my hips.

He steps toward me and kisses me on the cheek, his lips barely brushing the corner of my mouth, the scent of peppermint filling my senses. "How's that?" he whispers.

I'm speechless for a couple of seconds. "Perfect," I say. "Very minty. You pass."

"Good. The Uber is out front. Come on, princess." He grabs both of our bags and I sling my purse over my shoulder, following him out to the car.

When we get to the airport, the crowd is much worse than I expected. Granted, I've never been to an airport, much less flown in a plane, but I didn't think it would be like this. "Do you think we're going to make it?" I ask, worrying my lower lip, looking around at all the people flitting in and out of lines and rushing to different kiosks and service desks.

"You're starting to sound like me with the worrying. We have just over two hours to get through security. We're fine. If we're going to worry, it should be about your ID. Are you sure security isn't going to flag you?"

I give him a pointed glare. "Are you kidding me? My father is the king of Demons. They're everywhere in this realm, including the government. My ID will be just fine."

Jace gives me an impressed nod and says, "Then we're good to go, provided you didn't pack anything sharp in your carry-on bag."

"Damn, I guess we need to go back home so I can unpack my machete," I quip, and even I know to say it under my breath. He scowls at me, but I don't miss the glint in his eyes. I'm pretty sure that I could tell this man that all the video game consoles in the universe were damaged by a major virus and he would continue skipping through this day; even his anxiety has taken a backseat to his positive attitude.

After we make our way through security we stop at one of the markets to stock up on snacks. Jace even says I have enough time to look at some of the souvenir shops inside the terminal. When we get to our gate the attendant is calling for first class to board the plane.

"Keep moving, princess. That's us."

I look over my shoulder at him, my eyes widening. I may have never been on a plane, but I know from movies and TV that first class is only for the elite. "First class? Really? Isn't that expensive?"

He shrugs. "Yeah, but this is a special occasion and a reason to splurge a little. Besides, it's your first time on a plane. I wanted you to have a good experience. The seats in first class are so much more comfortable, you get champagne, there's more leg room, and you get a blanket."

Warmth blooms in my chest. Jace paid extra for first class tickets just for me. I loop my arm in his and look up at him, leaning my head against his arm. "Thank you. That's really sweet."

We board the plane and take our seats. Jace is the epitome of relaxed, scrolling through his phone. I, on the other hand, am staring out the window and playing with all the gadgets around us. This exceeds my expectations. Or maybe it's not truly the plane that has me in awe but the man sitting beside me. It's incredible to me that just a few days ago I was letting him down gently, putting some space between us because I'm trying to protect my heart, essentially telling him it was "me, not him," and now here we are in first class seats he bought just for me. Who does that?

He glances up from his phone and smiles. "Are you all right? Do you need anything before we take off?"

I chew the inside of my cheek and pretend that I wasn't just thinking about how phenomenal he is. "No. I'm just a little scared. There isn't a reason for planes when you have portals," I say, wringing my hands in my lap and laying my head back against the headrest, letting my eyelids flutter closed.

Warm fingers slink beneath mine and curl around my thigh. I crack my eyes open and watch as Jace's thumb rubs calming strokes against the outside of my leg. The gesture is innocent, but my body doesn't see it that way. I fight the urge to inch my thighs apart and feel him touch me more intimately.

"As soon as we're in the air, I'll order you a drink," he says, letting his fingertips travel up and down my inner thigh.

I swallow hard and nod. "Okay," I whisper. "As long as you don't stop doing what you're doing right now, I'll be good to go." My voice is shaky and my heart beats hard against my rib cage. I could pretend it's because I'm scared of takeoff, but that's probably only 20 percent of my problem right now.

"I'm not going anywhere. Just talk to me to take your mind off the nerves and you'll be fine."

"I can't think straight right now. You start the conversation."

He chuckles and as he continues to draw circles with his thumb he says, "So did you make Cannon guess what Circle you'll rule when you told him?"

"No. I just blurted it out."

"What's the fun in that? Make the man work for the information."

"What Circle do you think he would have guessed?"

Jace taps his finger on my knee. "Lust."

"Oh yeah?" I ask, raising one brow. "And why's that?"

He leans in closer to me, bringing his mouth to my ear. "I know that's the sin tempting me whenever I'm around you."

I turn my face to his so our lips are inches apart. "Me too. We've barely started this trip and you've already got me wishing you'd use that blanket you were so excited about to cover our laps and really take my mind off the nerves," I murmur, forgetting every line I've drawn, every wall I've tried to build.

"Is that what you really want, Desideria?"

Yes. No. Maybe. I'm treading close to forbidden territory, and I should know better. Jace is right; when we're together I'm consumed by lust. So much so that a part of me wants to say forget the blanket and guide his hand between my legs. I want him to touch me, to make me feel all the things only he can. And when I'm done losing myself to his touch, I want to return the favor. The only thing that holds me back is that small voice of reason in the back of my head. As much as I want to ignore it, that voice is vital to my self-preservation right now.

"It's a nice fantasy, like something I would read about in one of my steamy romances." It's the truth, but not the full truth. I give him just enough to keep the flirtation going.

He leans his head back and hums his approval. "I really need to skim through one of these books sometime."

"Well, it's your lucky day," I say, reaching into my purse and pulling out the latest in the series I've been binge reading. "I just read a pretty sexy scene if you want to take a look." I open the book to where my bookmark rests, right after a particularly spicy scene in which the two enemies just gave in and decided that they were done fighting and wanted to work out their aggression in a different way. Flipping back a few pages, I hand him the book. "Here ya go. Have a gander."

As the flight attendants demonstrate the safety procedures, I watch Jace. More than once he runs his palm over his brow, wiping away the perspiration gathering there. The speed with which his gray eyes move across the page is impressive, like he's devouring each word. I don't miss the way he lingers on a sentence or two before shifting in his seat. I almost feel bad for handing him the book. Almost.

Jace's expression keeps me entertained until we taxi onto the runway and the plane speeds down it. He's glued to the pages well past our ascent. It's not until the flight attendant stops at our row for our drink order that he sets the book down. On his lap. To cover the bulge pressing against his zipper.

"I'll have a water, please."

"A red wine," I say, and when they leave, I turn to Jace. "Did that scene make you thirsty?"

"Among other things," he says, sliding his hand between the book and his pants and adjusting himself.

I smirk and nod down at where the book rests on his lap. "I'd say I'm sorry, but you've been teasing me all morning, so I think you deserved it. You don't have to read any more." I reach over to take it back from him, and my fingertips accidentally brush against his zipper, the feeling of his rock-hard cock sending an instant pool of warmth between my legs.

He flinches and makes a small, pained noise. "You're going to be the death of me, Desideria."

"Am I?"

"I may have to teach you a lesson—the characters in your books aren't the only ones who can work out their aggression in creative ways," he murmurs, his gaze traveling up and down my body.

This plane is in real danger; I feel like I'm going to combust at any moment. "I may have to hold you to that, Jace Wilder," I whisper.

"Well—"

"Do you two need anything else?" The flight attendant's chipper voice breaks the spell between us and we split, nearly jumping out of our skin.

"No, we're good," we both chirp, and I stare daggers into her back as she walks away.

We're both silent a moment before I clear my throat. "Oh, there was another thing I wanted to tell you about Cannon. So you know, he and I are very much on the same page about us having no romantic chemistry, and yet he's still willing to be my backup plan. For eternity. Wouldn't he want a chance to meet someone, fall in love, all that good stuff? I know feelings can develop over time, but it's not a guarantee. Do you think it's weird?"

Jace remains silent, and I can practically see his brain working through what I just told him, so I take the time to think it over again. Everyone strives to be the best, and when they come up a little short they're grateful for second place because it shows that they worked hard and never gave up. But in a relationship, especially one that lasts for eternity, who wants to be second best? Especially with someone they aren't clicking with in the sex department.

Jace tips his head side to side and says, "It's weird and it isn't. You know he's motivated to succeed in business. You'd literally be making him a king. Can't get any more successful than that. And you're gorgeous, so coming in second as your arm candy is a sweet deal by itself."

I consider this and purse my lips. "True. I mean, about the career thing. As far as me being gorgeous . . ." I lift one shoulder playfully. "That's subjective."

"True, but it's my job to know when something is exceptional. I have an eye for the things that stand out. And nothing is more attractive than owning who and what you are. You are beautiful, Desideria. Very little in this realm compares to you."

Suddenly the air in the cabin isn't enough and I can't breathe. "I have to go to the bathroom," I blurt, unbuckling my seat belt. "Is that—is that allowed? Can I?"

"Yes." He points to the sign at the front of the plane and moves out of my way.

I practically run down the aisle and dive into the bathroom, locking the door and leaning against it, threading my fingers through my hair.

I have to get control of myself.

I'm this close to surrendering and letting Jace back in, even though I know it'll end in nothing but heartache. But honestly, why shouldn't I? I'm not deluding myself into believing that I'm going to find anyone else to take with me to Infernis. I know I'm going to end up taking Cannon. I'm not going to meet someone else and fall in love in the little time I have left. It simply isn't going to happen.

If Jace wants to tell me I'm beautiful and put his hands on me, why shouldn't I let him? Why shouldn't I enjoy the time I have left with him? It may hurt to know how things will end for us, but at least I am prepared. Looking in the mirror, I take a deep breath and fix my curls.

Straightening to my full height, I square my shoulders. I'm a princess, dammit. I may be a princess of Sloth, but I'm still a princess. I'm going to go back to my seat, get in the mindset that Jace Wilder is my boyfriend, and we are the happiest couple on this plane. Soon we will be in New York City, and if he wants to go the extra mile to convince Matt, Edmonds, and the mayor himself, then that's what we'll do.

I wash my hands and leave the lavatory, flashing him a bright smile as I return and take my seat, trailing my fingers along his shoulder as I pass. "Sorry about that. I felt like I was going to be sick for a second. I'm good now."

Jace follows my every movement like he's searching for a hole in my story. Looking back, I'm certain he sat here contemplating whether or not he did something wrong. My exit was pretty hasty.

"Do you want me to call the flight attendant?" he asks, like he's talking to a skittish animal. Oh yeah, he definitely thinks he did something wrong.

"No. I just needed to splash some water on my face. I felt lightheaded after the takeoff and the wine. Honestly." I turn in my seat after buckling back up and slide my hand onto the inside of his thigh. "I'm perfect now."

He laces his fingers with mine and flashes me a timid smile, but his words are sincere. "Good. I want you to have the time of your life on this trip, and when you think back on your time here, I want you to remember the next few days."

I rub my thumb across his knuckles. "I know I will. And I have to admit—I want you to have the best time you've ever had with me over the next few days. Like, not just with me. But ever. Before I go, I want to know that I gave you the best days of your life." My voice cracks and I don't even bother to hide the emotion in it. I'm trying to let him know that I've given in. I'm waving my white flag. This isn't just for show.

But if he doesn't see it now, he will. I'll make sure of it.

He leans in and presses a kiss to my cheek. "You're here with me for one of the most exciting moments of my life. I have a feeling it won't be hard to make these the best days."

"Same," I say, laying my head on his shoulder and spending the rest of the flight in comfortable silence.