Mathieu (White Flame Trilogy) - By Paula Flumerfelt Page 0,46

Mina was looking at his shoulder, avoiding his gaze.

Mathieu, who was just barely taller than her, pulled her closer and whispered into her ear. “I’m not a pet. I protect someone very important to me, just like you do. And if I used my power, it would be awe-inspiring, not something worthy of mass panic. However, I feel that you would be more deadly than beautiful if you used your gift. Somehow, I think you are rather ugly when you want to be.”

Closing her eyes, Mina nodded. “My…gift is not something to play with. It’s meant for destruction, as all of our gifts are. I’d bet you’re just as dangerous as I am, if you so desired to be.” The blonde trod on his foot in what could only be an intentional manner.

Mathieu grinned through the sharp pain, dipping her in an elegant end to their dance. “Thank you, Mina, for a wonderful dance. You make an excellent partner.”

People around them politely applauded, having been watching the pair. As they concluded their dance, the others were rising and taking up position. Couples danced across the floor happily, swaying about. Mathieu gave Mina a squeeze and righted her. “If you get in Avian’s way, you will see how destructive my powers can be.” He released her.

Avian bounded towards him, taking his hand and dragging him into her version of a waltz, half pushing Mina out of the way. She was not as delicate as his last partner and instead, she pushed him around the floor, grinning. “Tell me, what were you two talking about?”

“Not much. I just told her that she should loosen up.” Mathieu said, having been expecting the Princess’s curiosity.

Smiling, they danced in silence for a moment. Then, her face took on a very serious look. “Elise wants to take you home with her. She feels that you are a prize that can be bought.” The lines on her face were hard. “She actually asked what bargain could be struck for her to gain you.”

Mathieu tilted his head so that his cheek was resting on top of Avian’s head. “Don’t worry, I have no intentions of leaving you. Elise couldn’t win my favor even if she tried.”

Her face visibly softened at his words, golden eyes glowing and holding happy glint they normally did behind their glasses. “Thank you Mathieu. You’re my very best friend.”

“And you are mine. You know, Mina is the true danger here.” He murmured.

Avian hummed off tone. “Yes, I know. Elise is very sweet when her lap-dog is away. We had a lovely conversation and she has invited me to her manor once I take over.”

He looked across the room at Elise who was dancing with a very stately man. “That is very kind of her. I wish that we knew her under different circumstances. She would be quite the friend.”

They had reduced to just swaying on the spot, talking. “I think Mina is nice too, when that stick isn’t up her--”

“May I cut in, Avian? You can’t hog the cute guy all night.” Venee wrinkled her nose at them, hands clasped politely at her waist. With a roll of her eyes, Avian let go of Mathieu’s hand and let Venee step into her place. She returned to her seat, watching them from afar.

Mina came to sit beside her. Mathieu closed his eyes, listening through his connection to Tesla.

“Tell me, where did you find him?”Mina said stiffly.

Avian smiled. “He found me. And don’t worry, he’s not going anywhere. Mathieu is mine and I won’t give him up without a fight.” Behind her mask of sweetness, a hint of chill was there, peeking out.

Mina nodded before looking away.

“Avian is very happy around you, you know. She is normally quite…rude to people.” Venee peeked up at him, a genuine warmth in her face. “You two really must come visit me. We’d love to have you.”

“That is strictly up to Avian, but I will suggest it to her.” Nodding to her, he swept her around the room in a wide arch, making her giggle happily.

After a while longer, the night began to wind down and people were taking up pairs, seating themselves around the room for a night cap. Drinks were passed around for all and Mathieu found himself sitting beside Avian on a loveseat, her head on his shoulder.

“Tonight has been fun. And I learned a lot more than I thought I would. My father is going about the relationship with Korinth the wrong way. Soon, I’ll be