Page 21 of Tempest Awakening
"Tempest Whittaker," I said, inclining my head slightly while silently cursing the sudden dryness in my mouth and the quickening of my pulse. "It seems we'll be working closely."
"So it seems." Her voice, low and slightly husky.
I let the silence stretch, observing her reaction while fighting the urge to let my eyes wander over her form. "An interesting choice for this role," I finally said, my tone carefully neutral. "I hope you're prepared for the challenge, little librarian."
Without waiting for a response, I turned and left, irritation and frustrated desire simmering beneath my calm exterior. TempestWhittaker was an unknown variable in our carefully balanced world, and a dangerous temptation I hadn't anticipated. One I would need to study closely to mitigate any potential risk—personal or otherwise.
As I strode away, I found myself uncomfortably aware of her presence behind me, my body hyper-aware and yearning to turn back. I pushed the thought aside violently, increasing my pace. Such reckless attractions were a luxury I could ill afford, and one I was determined to overcome.
???
Later that evening, I found myself ensconced in the lavish confines of my family's manor. The opulent surroundings did little to ease the tension coiled within me, a stark reminder of the expectations that weighed heavily upon my shoulders.
As I made my way through the hallways, I paused outside Kali’s room. The faint sounds of a video game filtered through the closed door. I’d be seeing Mason later, and he’d appreciate it if I checked on his sister.
I knocked softly, pushing the door open when I heard her muffled "Come in."
Kali sat cross-legged on the plush carpet, her attention fixed on the screen before her. "Already on your second playthrough of Baldur's Gate 3?" I remarked, leaning against the doorframe.
She glanced over her shoulder, a smirk playing on her lips. "Someone's got to keep the mind flayers in check. Plus, I need to succeed in romancing Astarion this time. It didn't work out last playthrough."
I couldn't resist. "You know, real vampires—"
Kali rolled her eyes dramatically, cutting me off. "Ugh, Kane. It's a game. Let me have my fun."
I allowed myself a small smile. "And how are your studies progressing?"
Kali rolled her eyes dramatically. "Stellar, as always. You know me, Kane. I live to exceed expectations."
Her sarcasm was evident, but I detected no real distress in her tone. Good. Her brother would be pleased to hear his sister was adjusting well. "Just remember, your brother—"
"Wants me to apply myself, focus on my potential, blah blah blah," she finished for me, her tone softening slightly. "I know, Kane. I'm trying."
Despite her teasing words, I felt a flush of warmth at her words. Kali trusted me. She saw me not just as the arrogant fae heir, but as the one who had helped to save her and her brother. Her trust, so hard-won, was a precious gift. Which was why I felt so fiercely protective of her now.
The sound of the front door opening and closing shattered the moment, signaling my father's arrival home.
"Stay in here," I murmured to Kali, closing the door behind me as I descended the stairs towards the foyer.
Silvius Ellesar cut an imposing figure, his broad shoulders filling out the crisp lines of his tailored suit. His silver hair was neatly combed back, framing chiseled features that seemed carved from granite. As I approached, his piercing blue eyes settled on me.
"Welcome home, Father," I greeted, my tone carefully neutral.
His lip curled in disdain. "I trust you've begun preparations for overseeing the human's work?"
"Of course. I've already initiated a preliminary assessment of the project's scope and potential... challenges."
Silvius scoffed, his distaste palpable. "A human. At the Dragonne Library. It's an abomination."
I fought the urge to clench my teeth, well-accustomed to my father's prejudices. "Nevertheless, it is her decree, and I shall endeavor to carry it out efficiently."
A muscle twitched in his jaw as he regarded me through narrowed eyes. "See that you do. But do not waste the time of those better suited to more critical tasks."
"Understood." The words felt like acid on my tongue, but I forced them out, knowing the consequences of defiance.
Yet, Silvius seemed to sense the slightest undercurrent of rebellion in my tone. In a blur of motion, his hand lashed out, striking me across the face with a resounding crack that sent stars bursting across my vision. The force of the blow whipped my head to the side and sent a spray of blood across the polished marble floor. Pain exploded across my face, a sharp contrast to the cold fury building within me.
I staggered, my vision swimming with tears of pain that I refused to let fall. Straightening, I met his gaze steadily, refusing to show weakness.
