“Zerina’s disappearance interrupts the balance, and it cannot continue because Mother is the only one that can serve in Zerina’s place; it divides her attention. With Zeus trying to take control, it gives him a chance to strike.”
“I will endeavor to help. If I see either of them, I will send word.”
“Thank you.”
Hades nodded as Fate picked up Cara and Broni’s presents.
Fate prepared to leave, adding, “Dionysus tried to take control of Broni’s human body. She thinks it was to use against Zerina. Her life is in great danger.” She wanted to ensure he truly helped if he was able.
Hades remained silent, so Fate turned to leave but thought to ask, “Hades, all is well here? For Zeus to succeed he must have—”
“All is well here.” His tone was firm.
“Be well, Hades.” Fate disappeared from Hades’s sight.
Hades stood looking at the spot Fate had disappeared from for several seconds before turning on his heel, walking from the room. He stalked across the black marble entryway, going up the massive stairway to reach the upper floors where large door of black onyx stood at the end of the long hallway. Turning the black diamond doorknob, he opened his bedroom door.
Leaning against the doorframe, he crossed his arms elegantly across his chest. “My love, I just received a visit from your mother. It seems she is concerned about your safety.” Hades didn’t try to conceal the mocking twist of his mouth as he stared at the beauty on his bed.
Zerina’s glorious blue eyes shot sparks of temper in his direction, however the gag he had tied around her mouth kept her from yelling the obscenities at him he had become familiar with since her arrival. Her hands were tied to a hook he had placed conveniently at the head of his bed. It was one of the most tempting sights Hades had ever seen, and he had seen it all.
“She seems to think your gentle, little soul might be in danger. She doesn’t know you at all, does she?”
He walked forward to the bed, his hand reaching out to trail his fingers up a slimthigh that was visible since her gown had ridden up in her struggles. Zerina’s foot snapped out, attempting to kick him.
Hades burst out laughing. “No, she doesn’t know you at all. But, I do, and what I don’t, I have every intention of finding out.”
* * *
Broni stared down at the package lying on her bed, biting her lip. Twice she had reached out to open it only to jerk her hand back both times.
“Would you like me to open it?” Warrior asked, lying down on the bed next to the package.
“I can do it,” she snapped.
Sucking in a deep breath, she opened the package, the purple bow dropping unnoticed to the floor. Lifting the lid of the box, she pulled out a slim case. Broni opened it, staring down at the necklace.
It was beautiful. Broni took it out, holding it so the candlelight could catch the stones. She looked at it in awe. Made of black star sapphire, the stars gleamed in the light.
“It’s beautiful.” When Broni put the necklace on, placing her fingertips against the stones, it felt like she was touching home. It soothed the homesickness she had suffered since returning to Earth.
“I don’t know if I like you wearing jewelry given to you by another man.” Her warrior’s jealous voice had her climbing on the bed next to him, sweeping the opened box carelessly to the floor.
“It’s just a wedding gift.”
Her husband’s hand came out to tease a bare nipple, his appreciative gaze taking in her naked body with the gleaming necklace at her throat.
“I should go pay him a visit and thank him.” Broni arched into his touch, leaning forward to kiss her husband’s mouth.
“No, Odin told me the effect his brother has on women. He was furious when he found out your mother had paid him a visit.”
“Odin has no right to be angry at my mother!” Broni had every intention of defending her mother, but her husband forestalled her by taking her mouth with his. Her hands slid around his shoulder, luxuriating in his demanding kiss.
“I will go and thank him for both of us.”
“You will?” Broni giggled. “You do know he has the same effect on men as he does women?”
“He does?”