Page 20 of Something Worth Keeping
“Yes.”
“And probably unsanitary.”
“Definitely.”
“Also, my agnolotti hasn’t arrived yet.”
Cillian’s laugh was low and dark and did interesting things to Julian’s pulse. “Then I’ll restrain myself.”
“Probably for the best.” Julian didn’t pull his hand away from the shadows. “Tell me something else about yourself.”
“Such as?”
“Where do you live? You said you’re part of the Order of Shadows. What is that exactly?”
“A collective of Eldritch Guardians who have chosen to work together. We maintain a property called Shadow House on the north side. I have a suite of rooms there.”
“How many guardians?”
“Four currently. Thorn, Rook, Silas and myself. Though the number fluctuates.”
“Do they all hunt predators?”
“Yes, though our methods vary. Some prefer more...theatrical approaches.”
Julian filed that information away. “And you’ve spoken with one of them since we met? Thorn? After you found me?”
Cillian’s expression shifted to something almost sheepish. “He suggested I was being too intense.”
“You were watching me through my window.”
“He pointed that out as well.”
“So, you came to the coffee shop.”
“He said normal humans court at coffee shops.”
Julian smiled. “This is better, though. The coffee shop was informative, but this is...” he gestured at the restaurant, the wine, Cillian’sshadows still wrapped around his hand. “This is actually romantic.”
“You think so?”
“Yes. You’re trying. I appreciate the effort.”
The agnolotti arrived. The server placed it down carefully, announced the dish, and retreated before Julian could comment on the presentation.
“Prompt service. They’re very afraid of you,” Julian observed, twirling pasta on his fork.
“Does that concern you?”
“No. But you might want to work on your public persona if we’re going to do this regularly.”
“Do what regularly?”
“Date. Court. Whatever terminology you prefer.” Julian took a bite. The brown butter was perfect. “I’m assuming this isn’t a singular dinner event.”
“I would like to take you to dinner every night for the rest of your life.”
Julian paused mid-chew and then swallowed. He was well aware it was rude to speak with a mouthful. “That’s a significant commitment.”
