Terror at the Gates (Blood of Lilith, #1)

by Scarlett St. Clair

Forgiveness was an invitation to sin. I witnessed it every week, which was why I’d decided a long time ago that I did not care to be forgiven. I’d rather be a sinner than a hypocrite.

I went unnoticed. It was a choice. I could draw attention if I wished, but among those present, I had yet to spy anything of worth.

We were not responsible for lust in men. We existed, and they desired.

It was hard to explain, but I felt like he had the deepest eyes I had ever seen, yet they held absolutely nothing.

“Their judgment is fear, Lilith,” he said. “And fear is power.”

“That girl’s gonna be the death of you,” said Felix. I didn’t need to be told something I already knew. “The owner of this apartment complex,” I said. “Find out where he lives. We’re going for a visit.”

When I looked at Zahariev again, I didn’t feel so lost.

“Will you…hold me? I just…” My words dried up. I didn’t really know how to explain why I wanted this. I just did. I needed it. Zahariev was quiet, but I could feel his gaze. “You don’t have to ask,” he said.