Summoned to the Wilds (Villains & Virtues, #2)

by A.K. Caggiano

“Amma?” Her eyes popped back open. “Yes?” “The thing I said, about killing you if I find you too irritating?” Damien cleared his throat. “That was a…a joke.” She clicked her tongue. “I know. That’s why I laughed.” “I just would like to confirm that you completely understand.” There was patience levied in his voice along with a strain as he struggled for the words. “Feel free to be, you know, as irritating as you like without fear of imminent death.” Kaz retched from the shadows.

There was nothing to be afraid of, she realized, not here and not anywhere. Not when they were together.

would just gladly be swallowed by endless darkness upon endless darkness if it meant not hurting you because I have never cared so deeply for another being. I cannot explain or understand how you have broken me in this way, but you have made me feel…things that are maddening.”

“It’s just so strange, isn’t it? To take me with her? Lycoris even told me that my mother was happy. She said my mother and father were like salamanders in a volcano. Do you know how much a salamander would adore being in a volcano, Amma?” “How much?” “Quite a bloody lot!”

but me and you are gonna have to do some real heavy lifting if you think Caldor’s gonna give either of us a turn with her before the general or—” Damien grabbed the front of his tunic, jerking him forward, plate clattering across the floor. “I know that the restraint I am showing by not slaughtering you right now is beyond your minuscule comprehension, but understand that if you spew another word of that thought, I will bury this sword so deeply down your throat, it will only be retrievable by way of your asshole. Tell me where she is. Now.”

“You came for me,” she whispered up against his mouth. His fingertips grazed her temple, smoothing away hair that had fallen in her face, and he pressed another kiss to her lips. “You called. How could I not?”