Children of the Gods - A Chosen Novel by Monica Millard

human, Lennie, robbed you of that
privilege.”
    She made a sound like a hiss at the mention
of Lennie’s name. Her cheeks glowed red.
    “No it has not been so long. I understand
your need perfectly, especially after such a long separation. Please, forgive the intrusion.”
    She bowed deeply, and it appeared to take
much effort as she backed away, still bent at the shoulders.
    “You should not provoke her further. She
would already love to see you fall,” Jaxson whispered as he pulled
me near.
    “I can handle her.”
    “I see that.” He was smiling when he leaned
in and kissed me, pulling my body tight against his. The
desperation in his touch took my breath away.
    “Sorry,” he whispered, loosening his grip,
his lips brushed mine as he spoke.
    I looked into his concerned eyes. “Whatever
for?”
    “For being too rough. Lately, I am overcome
by the need to be near you.”
    “I am not so fragile as you imagine.”
    He kissed me again. This time slower and
gentle.
    “We should eat,” he said, drawing back.
    “If we must.” I shrugged, but really I was
grateful. I was feeling ravenous. He smiled and went to the bureau.
He returned with a soft pink slip dress which he helped me
into.
    As we entered the dining hall I wrapped my
arm around his waist and slipped my hand just inside the waist of
his pants. He gave a start, but did not look at me or pull away. I
did notice the corner of his mouth turn up slightly and he walked a
little taller which helped to keep my focus on him rather than
those who looked on with wide eyes.
    Katy appeared the moment we sat down. She
looked from me to Jaxson then quickly set waters in front of us
trying not to show her surprise, unsuccessfully.
    “Do you know what you will be having, my
lady?” She bowed and turned to Jaxson. “Sir?” A blush spread across
her cheeks.
    “Relax, Katy. He does not bite.”
    She turned a darker shade of red. “I am
sorry. I have only ever seen you during morning rounds. I was not
expecting you. My apologies.”
    He smiled. “Do not trouble yourself, dear.”
He turned to me. “What will you have, Love?”
    “Is Marcel working, Katy?”
    She nodded a quick jerky nod, still nervous
but eager to please.
    “I know it is no longer breakfast, but if he
could spare a moment to whip me up one of his egg delights?”
    She nodded again then turned to Jaxson. “For
you, Sir?”
    “I will have the same.”
    She bowed.
    “Thank you, Katy,” he said as she retreated,
and the blush returned.
    I leaned in close. “I think someone fancies
you.”
    “What, that?” he asked. “No, I make them all
nervous.”
    “You are right, that must be it.” I smiled
and he squeezed my hand.
    “Does it bother you? I can have her
replaced.” He was suddenly concerned.
    “No, I think it is cute, actually.”
    His expression softened. He smiled and kissed
my hand.
    We ate in silence, but he seemed to be
enjoying his meal as much as I had the first time. His head bobbed
ever so slightly from side to side as he chewed. My sister,
Lizanne, always teased me about my display of pleasure when I ate.
I tried to ignore the pull I felt upon seeing that he and I shared
this quirk.
    “How have I never had this before?” Jaxson
asked, setting his fork aside.
    “It is not on the menu.” I winked, and it was
my turn to blush. I looked down, hoping the color would quickly
fade.
    “What would you like to do next?”
    I looked up. “It is your first day off in a
thousand years. What would you like to do?”
    “Really? You will accompany me in whatever I
choose?”
    The shock on his face broke my heart. Anaya
must really be horrible to him. Even with that thought she remained
silent. Good, I was in no mood to hear her side, not with the way
his eyes lit with excitement as I nodded.
    Today was a free day. After giving me such a
thoughtful gift, a gift he could not even claim credit for. I
decided today was my gift to him. For today only, I would not hate
him. I would be