A Touch of Darkness (Hades & Persephone, #1)

by Scarlett St. Clair

The narcissus was the flower and symbol of Hades, the God of the Dead. They did not often decorate tables, but coffins.

Nevernight was impossible to get into. There was a three-month waiting list, and Persephone knew why. Nevernight was owned by Hades.

She wasn’t as impressed with the grandeur of the gods; if they could flaunt their wealth, immortality, and power, the least they could do was help humanity. Instead, the gods spent their time pitting mortal against mortal, destroying and reforming the world for fun.

He was beautiful in a dark way—in a way that promised heartbreak.

She’d heard a rumor when she moved to New Athens that horns were the source of the Divine’s power.

“They say Hades is protective of his realm, and while that is true, it isn’t about power. He cares for his people, protects them, and he takes it personally if anyone is harmed. If you belong to him, he will tear the world apart to save you.”

“Hmm. I think you are the Goddess of Sexual Frustration.” Persephone barked laughter. “I think that’s Aphrodite.” “Did I say sexual frustration? I meant Hades’s sexual frustration.”

“You are a goddess. You will sit in a throne.”

“How can you be so passionate and not believe in love?” Hades offered a humorless laugh. “Because passion doesn’t need love, darling.”

“I’m not yours and I’m not your darling.” “We’ve been through this, haven’t we? You are mine. I think you know that just as well as I do.” She folded her arms over her chest. “Have you ever thought that maybe you’re mine instead?”

“You do realize the Underworld is the realm of the dead, don’t you, Hecate?” “It is also a place for new beginnings,” she said. “Sometimes, the existence a soul leads here is the best life they’ve ever had. I’m sure you, of all the gods, understand that best.”

I will be a generous lover.”

Their darkness would come together. After tonight, this god would always be a part of her.

“Drop your glamour.” He looked at her curiously. She shrugged a shoulder. “You want to fuck me with this crown. I want to fuck a god.” His smirk was devilish, and he answered, “As you wish.”

Respect could build an empire. Trust could make it unbreakable. Love could make it last forever.

“I know because you are kind and compassionate and you fight for your beliefs, but mostly, you fight for people. That’s what gods are supposed to do, and someone should remind them, because a lot of them have forgotten.” Lexa paused. “Maybe that’s why you were born.”

“I have waited lifetimes for you,” he said as if it was an oath he was swearing upon every star in the sky, every drop of water in the ocean, every soul in the entire universe. “I know it.”