A Demon's Witch

by Tena Stetler

  “We intend to do just that in the near future, but first I want to finish researching information that came to my attention. I think you’ll find it very interesting.” She took her sweater off and eased into the chair. “I also wanted to let you know we learned you weren’t entirely to blame for my father’s death. Now, can you layer my hair as you did Amanda’s last week?”

  He was slow to answer as he considered all the information she had so easily laid out for him. Picking up the scissors and comb, he assessed her facial appearance. “Sure can, but your face is wider at the temples than your friends, and your eyes are bigger, so let’s modify that cut a bit to enhance your features.” This is turning into a very interesting day. He shook out the cape, slipped it around her shoulders, and began sculpting Jill’s hair.

  ****

  Bruce dressed for the evening and had just finished tying his tie when the intercom chirped. “The limo is here awaiting your instructions.”

  “I’ll be right down.” He sprinted down the stairs and strode across the salon floor; glancing back, he saw the smirk on Owens face. “Not one word, understand?”

  “Yep.”

  Reaching into his pocket, he grabbed the keys to the SUV and tossed them to Owen. “You know what to do with these.”

  “Sure do.”

  “See you Tuesday sometime. If something breaks call me.”

  “Will do.”

  Bruce stepped out the salon door and into the awaiting limo giving the driver directions to The Krystal Unicorn just a couple blocks down the street.

  The limo stopped in front of The Krystal Unicorn, the chauffer stepped out and opened the door. Bruce emerged from the vehicle said something to the driver who closed the door behind him and stood beside the limo. Bruce glanced through the shop’s window, Willow stood behind the counter staring at the limo, the corner of his mouth curved into a slight smile.

  He sauntered in and snickered at Willow’s wide-eyed expression. “Is my li’l witch around somewhere?”

  Willow jerked her chin toward the storeroom. “Angie’s changing. What if we’d had customers? So much for a low profile.” She hissed.

  “The time for remaining under the radar is almost over.” He parted the crystal beads and walked to the back as he heard the bathroom door open. Bruce sucked in a breath as Angie emerged in a ruby silk gown that hugged all her curves, with a plunging neckline that stopped just short of the waistline, and slit up the right side of the dress to mid-thigh. The back was bare almost to her waist where black ribbons crisscrossed her delicate skin. She carried a black velvet cape with scalloped edges stitched in red over one arm. He blew out the breath in a whistle. “Wow. I feel like an awe struck teenager. You are breathtakingly beautiful.” He loved the way her violet eyes sparkled with excitement.

  ****

  Her heart pounded in her chest, partly because she’d not expected him to be standing there when she walked out the bathroom door, and partly because that’s the effect he had on her. “A teenager? Huh, surprised you can remember back that far.” She snickered as her gaze swept over him, so stunningly handsome in his black tux and tails, accented by a red silk shirt and black tie that her breath caught in her throat. The fit was perfect for his broad shoulders, long muscular legs, narrow hips and six pack abs. He was one sexy package, and he was all hers.

  “You don’t look bad yourself, the suit accents all the right parts, if you know what I mean.” She raised one eyebrow and smiled seductively. “How did you know I was wearing red?”

  “I didn’t, red just happens to be one of my favorite colors.”

  The space between them disappeared as he took her in his arms, her soft curves molding to the contours of his muscular body. The caress of his lips on her mouth, trailing long the side of her neck and across the swells of her breasts set her entire body ablaze. “I think we better get going, or skip it and go directly to your estate.”

  “Oh, no, I intend to enjoy all the envious stares I’ll get from the males in the audience and restaurants we patronize this evening.”

  “I don’t believe she is going to be the only one attracting envious stares. You look hot!” Willow said, dramatically fanning herself as Bruce and Angie walked through the beaded curtain onto the showroom floor. “You two are going to make quite a stir where ever you go. So Prince Charming, are you taking her to the ball?”

  “No. We’re going to dinner in New York and then to attend a Broadway show.”

  “So you won’t be back tonight? The limo is taking you to the airport.” Willow said smugly.

  “Actually, we’ll be back early tomorrow morning. I have a private jet that will take us there and back. The limo service will pick us up again at the airport and take us to my car.”

  “Oh, I see.” A look of disappointment passed over her features.

  “No, you probably don’t.” He chuckled. “The apartment is all yours until sometime Tuesday when I bring her back.” He reached over and encircled Angie’s waist with one arm, pulling her close to him. Sliding a couple of fingers under the back of her dress, he played with the ribbons against her bare flesh.

  She discreetly swiveled her hips against him, then turned her attention to Willow. “Oh, sorry. I forgot to tell you I’m spending the weekend with Bruce.”

  “That’s OK. He knew what I was trying to find out. Caleb can spend the weekend at our apartment, since you’ll be away. I want to get him away from his painting for a bit and just enjoy being together. He works all the time,” she said with a frown.

  “Then you need to distract him with your womanly wiles.” Bruce suggested letting his gaze wander over Angie seductively.

  “Feel free to borrow some of my things, if you want. I think we’ll go shopping when I get back, at the little shop we found last month.” She winked at Willow.

  Willow looked perplexed and tilted her head up toward Angie. “What shop?” Then she took in a quick breath and the light dawned. “Oh, that shop. Perfect. That’s exactly what I need.”

  Bruce opened the door for Angie and swept her off into the awaiting limo. Once inside, he put an arm around her shoulders tucking her against him. “Would you like something to drink, wine perhaps?”

  “Is this yours?” She looked around at the white leather seats, plush light gray carpeting, small refrigerator, and LCD TV. There were even computer hookups, a printer, and a laptop. She opened the door to the little refrigerator and reached for a bottle of water

  Bruce took out a couple of bottles of wine, turned them over to look at the label, returned one, popping the cork on the other. Crystal glasses sat in a glass case above the refrigerator and he reached for one, pouring a small amount of wine into it, took a sip, and carefully placed it in the recessed holder on the glass table between the seats. Then he turned his attention back to Angie.

  “Yes, actually The Wycked Hair owns the limo as well as the jet we will be flying in. We have a couple limos, one for clients and I happen to favor this one.” He leaned back against the seat and ran his finger slowly up and down her leg bared by the long slit up her dress.

  The partition between them and driver slid down silently. “Are you ready to leave?”

  “Yes.”

  The driver nodded slightly and the frosted window glided back into place.

  “Can’t you just port from one place to another?”

  “Yes, I suppose I could, but traveling this way is so much more satisfying, especially with present company. Besides, you never know what obstacles or individuals you’ll encounter when you port and then there’s the wear and tear on the body when magic is involved.”

  “True, I hadn’t considered that, especially at your advanced age.” She smothered a giggle.

  “With age comes experience which you’ll benefit from later.” The corner of his mouth turned up into a sly smile.

  They arrived at the airport and a pleasant looking young man dressed in a navy blue uniform waited for them. “Follow me sir. The plane is full of fuel and
I checked her out myself. Enjoy your flight.” He motioned them down a corridor to the plane.

  “Who’s that?” She whispered as they followed him.

  “Sean, the mechanic. I trust him to keep my plane in tiptop shape until it’s needed. He’s been with me for years.”

  “Everyone has been with you for years.”

  “Well, not everyone.” He grinned at her. “But most have. In my line of work, you must be able to trust those around you, or you don’t last long. Either Owen or I handpick our employees for their abilities, knowledge of both worlds, and trustworthiness. We compensate them well, so they have no desire to leave or betray us.”

  Inside the plane Angie looked around, light beige carpeting complimented the deep maroon leather seats. There was a small stainless steel galley where a woman was preparing coffee on the right as they passed through. Everything gleamed. There were even fresh flowers in the crystal vases attached to the walls and conference table.

  “Do you use this for business often?”

  “More a few years ago when we were getting things established. With business running smoothly, it’s mostly for entertainment of clients or for employee use when they have an emergency.”

  Arriving in New York’s Kennedy International airport, there was a limo waiting to take them to the restaurant. The waiter showed them to a cozy corner table with a window overlooking the lake and held her seat for her as she sat down.

  “Shall I order for both of us, or would you rather order your own?”

  “Oh no, go ahead.”

  She enjoyed the food, especially the decadent chocolate dessert. Then it was time to return to the limo and off to the Broadway show Rock Ages.”

  “Where exactly are we going?”

  “The Helen Hayes Theatre on West 51st Street. It reminds me of you in a way. It was built kind of as a rebellion against the commercial theater. The auditorium is small, just a little under three-hundred seats.”

  “How does that remind you of me?” She asked. “I wasn’t even born yet.”

  “Rebellion, it’s what you’re all about.” He smirked.

  “I don’t want to know what you’re thinking. Do I?” Angie said with a pout.

  “Probably not.” Bruce had wanted to see Phantom, but thought Angie would enjoy the music video turned Broadway show channeling the hits of 1980 mega bands. Big hair, spandex, disguising make up, and mind-altering pharmaceuticals helped the mortal’s fantasies come true. Or helped the non-magic community deal with the discovery that otherworldly beings existed.

  During the 1980’s, the Rock and Roll culture mixed with magical creatures, their secrets were spilled at forbidden parties. Bruce made sure the magical offenders were rounded up and punished. But not before the secrets became lyrics and found their way into hit songs.

  Bruce watched as Angie bounced on her seat to the rhythm while singing quietly the words to several songs. She giggled at the antics of the actors on stage and glanced seductively at Bruce during the more risqué scenes. An effect he’d considered possible when choosing the production.

  “Did you enjoy the show?” He asked as they made their way to an exit.

  “Oh, yes. It was entertaining and the songs were some of my favorites.” The costumes, the sets, the production quality were simply amazing. I loved it, all of it.” She threw up her arms and wound them around his neck planting a warm, affectionate kiss on his lips

  By the time they were safely in the plane, Angie curled up against him with her head resting on his chest and his arms circled around her then drifted off to sleep.

  Still asleep, he carried her easily from the plane to the limo and drew her onto his lap for the ride to Owen’s house, where the Mercedes awaited them.

  ****

  Angie awoke disorientated and alone in a large bed that was vaguely familiar. The sun streamed through the open curtains and she heard water running somewhere. A door opened and Bruce stood across the room from her, a towel wrapped around his waist and using a small towel rubbing his shoulder length chestnut hair. The blond highlights gleaming in the sun’s rays.

  As he walked toward her, he said in a deeply sensual voice, “Good morning sleeping beauty. I trust you slept well.”

  “The last thing I remember was getting into the plane in New York. Geez my brain is fuzzy.”

  “Let me clear it up for you.” Sitting on the bed beside her, he leaned over kissed her nose, then her eyes and finally laid his mouth on hers with a tantalizingly tender kiss.

  She quivered at the sweet taste of his lips and tenderness of his kiss. “We’re at your estate aren’t we?”

  “Yes. Are you ready to get up and go for a ride? I believe Satan and Harbor are waiting for us.”

  “What time is it?”

  “A little past noon. I’d hoped to take you for a sunrise ride, but I enjoyed watching you sleep too much to awaken you. Maybe tomorrow morning, when you are more rested.”

  Her red dress lay over a chair along with her shoes. “You undressed me?”

  “Yes, and enjoyed every minute of it, though it was in the dark as I didn’t want to turn on the light and awaken you.” He trailed a finger along her jawline.

  She shifted her head away. “You can see as well as I can in the dark, so don’t try to say you didn’t see anything.” Feeling he’d taken advantage of her, the blood rose to her face along with a hint of temper. Unreasonable as she knew it was, she couldn’t find her calm.

  “I never said that…merely that I didn’t want to awaken you. I left your underwear on against my better judgment.” He shot her an irresistibly devastating grin.

  “Ok, I can see I can’t win.” She sent him a look meant to wither a man, pushed him aside, and threw back the covers since he’d already seen her in her underwear. Angie marched across the room, into the bathroom, still steamy from his bath, shut, and locked the door. He’d seen her in a tiny string bikini, which was less than underwear, but that was by her choice. This was something entirely different, or at least that was what she told herself, stepping into the shower.

  The late night and a little too much wine left her irritable, maybe a little unreasonable. Really, he’d done nothing wrong. But did he have to be so arrogant, so smug, so confident, and controlling? She huffed out a breath, rinsed the shampoo from her hair, and stepped out of the shower. Steam thick as fog made it impossible to towel off or see in the mirror. She opened the door just a crack and peered out for moment.

  A chuckle rose from his throat. He yanked on his jeans and sweatshirt, then pulled on his riding boots. “Breakfast is ready. I’ll meet you down stairs in the kitchen. Megan gets testy, if we let her food get cold. I’ll have her pack us a snack too, since I doubt we’ll be back for a while.”

  ****

  “Good morning or I guess afternoon, Megan. What a glorious day.” Angie greeted the housekeeper then slid into her chair tucking her foot under her and narrowing her eyes at Bruce.

  “Yes it is. Now you two better eat quickly and get out there and enjoy it.” Megan bustled around the kitchen pulling fresh baked cinnamon rolls from the oven and wrapping the sandwiches she fixed. She put a few rolls and the sandwiches in a backpack along with some fruit and chips. “Do you want wine with you or wait until you return and take it by the fire?”

  “Four bottles of water will be fine. We’ll have the wine tonight while we relax. Thanks.” He turned and smiled fondly at his long time housekeeper.

  “If you’re lucky,” Angie snarled sarcastically

  His usual dark amber eyes flashed a quick fiery orange. “Megan would you leave us for minute or two?”

  She raised her eyes brows and looked sternly from Angie to Bruce, but said nothing as she turned on her heel and left the room.

  “You will never talk to me that way in front of my staff. If we are alone, you can say whatever you want to me, but I’ll not have my staff involved in our personal life.” His hands fisted on the table as he spoke. “You’re angry because I took your love
ly gown off and put you to bed in your underwear?” He snorted. “I didn’t take advantage of you, though your body was more than willing after arousing both of us, maybe unintentionally or not as you curled in my lap on the ride from the airport to Owen’s house.”

  Angie rolled her eyes and shifted in her chair waiting for him to finish.

  “When I undressed you and laid you in my bed, I may have let my hands roam over your luscious breasts lightly so as not to wake you, even as you arched up against me. You’ve enjoyed my more intimate touches on several occasions and your underwear covered more than that bikini you chose the other night.” He drew in a long breath and sighed. “Let’s not ruin this day with a fight over such inconsequential actions. I’m sorry if you feel violated. You must know that wasn’t my intention, only to appreciate as you’ve allowed before. I’ve not touched another woman or even thought about one since that day you blew me a kiss in the salon. This is uncharted territory for me.”

  Through gritted teeth, she sputtered. “Who do you think you are? Ordering me around, telling me what I can and can’t do, what’s acceptable and what’s not, and how long you’ve been without. What the hell do I care? Screw the entire female population, if you feel the need.” She shoved her chair back as she rose and strode out the door.

  He sat his cup on the saucer with such force, the cup and saucer shattered as he rose from his chair to follow her. “For the love of…” he muttered trailing off. A slight breeze caressed his cheek, then a gentle hand gripped his shoulder. Bruce whirled around eyes blazing.

  “Whoa there stud.” Megan grinned, “Let her go, she needs to burn off some of that displaced anger. You might also consider what you’re going to say before you say it. It just might keep you from digging a bigger hole.” She shrugged.

  His eyes met Megan with a glint of steel. She met his gaze with no intention of backing down. “She’s spirited that one, not unlike your mother.” Clicking her tongue, Megan shook her head laughing softly. “Your poor father was driven to distraction until he learned to handle her fire with restraint of his own. Something you’d do well to learn also.”