A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Blood and Ash, #2)

by Jennifer L. Armentrout

“I want a ring,” I announced. “I want an obscenely big one like I’ve seen some of the wives of wealthy merchants have. Their diamonds are so large they look like they should weigh down their hands.” He angled his body toward me. “I will find you a diamond so big it will enter the room before you do.” “Good.” It took me a moment to realize that I was smiling.

“Please don’t die,” Kieran commented from where he sat. “Casteel would be most displeased.”

My brows snapped together. “That sounds like a very dysfunctional…engagement.” “You can’t spell dysfunctional without fun, now can you?” “That…I don’t even know what to say to that.”

Never able to remain seated when anger started pumping through my blood, I grabbed the dagger and shoved off the blanket, standing. He raised an eyebrow at me. “You plan to use that?” “Why does everyone think I’m going to stab them when I pick up anything that’s not blunt?” “Well,” Kieran replied blandly, “you do have a habit of doing exactly that.”

still want to stab you.” His head shot in my direction. “Just not as frequently,” I amended. One side of his lips curled up, and then he laughed. The sound was rough and a little hoarse, but it was real. “I would be disappointed if you didn’t.” I looked forward, smiling. “That is such a weird statement.” “What can I say? I have a thing for women with violent tendencies.” “That doesn’t sound any better,”

“Glad to know the disturbed apple doesn’t fall too far from the crazy tree.” He chuckled.

“Someone is likely to be very irritated if you stab me, and I end up bleeding all over the bed.” “You could always clean up after yourself.” “There’s something innately wrong with the idea of being stabbed and then having to clean up my own blood.”

I knocked his hand away. “You can let go. I’m not going to stab you.” “I find that oddly disappointing.” “And I find that extremely disturbing.” He laughed deeply, letting go of my wrist.