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

by Scarlett St. Clair

Zahariev was waiting. He stood, looking deep in thought, with a cigarette pinched between his fingers. His brows were furrowed, his mouth tight, a sign he was displeased with something—usually me. His gaze shifted to mine when he heard the door close. He rarely let it trail my body, but today, he gave me a cold once-over. “Is that outfit part of your routine?” he asked. “Fuck off,” I said, smoothing my pencil skirt. “You know I had lunch with my dad.” He smiled and took a drag from his cigarette. “How is he?” Zahariev asked. “More desperate than ever to have me home,” I said. I let my eyes narrow. “Do you know something I don’t?” “I’m sure Lisk is putting pressure on him,” said Zahariev, smoke drifting from his mouth as he spoke. “They want you married.” “No one’s going to marry me,” I said. “I’ve ruined my reputation.” “You underestimate man’s desire for power,” said Zahariev. “Is the church pressuring you to marry?” “No, though the commission likes to suggest potential brides every time we meet.” “Like who?” I asked. I didn’t like the jealousy that roared to life inside me at the thought of Zahariev getting married. I told myself it was because there was no chance the woman chosen for him would approve of me. His selection was limited to the second and third daughters of the other three families, and none of those women liked me. “I bet Victor put Violet forward. Don’t marry her. She’s a bitch.” Zahariev raised a brow and took another drag from his cigarette. “Are you re...