Sticks and Stones

Chapter Two

Sofia's newfound interest in Caspian was profound and poorly disguised. Eyes boring into his head, she gave him a flirty smile. "So what does your bounty hunting career include?"

"So you want to speak to me now?"

He was relieved—of course. But damn it, this little woman wanted something from him. He could hardly just give it to her. Not if he wanted to be more than just a passing face in her life. Cas had some dignity, even if just a little.

"I thanked you for the drink, didn't I?"

"But you weren't willing to give me anything beyond that." Drawing out her pain that little bit longer, he lifted his pint, taking his time with swallowing. She stared at the bob in his throat as he glugged on it. "You wouldn't even give me your name. I'd be a stupid man if I didn't question the sudden change in heart."

"I've been in a bad mood," She lied, her heart skipping a beat. Caspian listened to it carefully. "You've brought me out of it."

When her hand curled coyly around his forearm, he sought to control his reactions.

This little woman was already built to allure him in everything she did. But with her going out of her way to do it? Denial was nigh impossible.

"Bullshit," He answered. "How's your vodka? Glad you got a mixer?"

"The woman behind the bar was right. You are cocky."

"Sofia," He repeated. The name felt right, so he knew it wasn't a lie. She seemed like the type to lie. The kind who'd lie and cheat to get their own way. "It's a cute name."

"Thank you. Now your career—"

"Why so interested in my career?" He leaned closer, analysing her reactions. "Don't you want to get to know me first?"

"I am getting to know you." She poked him with mock playfulness. Still, the ulterior motive shined too brightly in her eyes. "That's why I'm asking about your career, silly."

"You weren't interested until you heard I'm a bounty hunter."

"That is so not true."

"Then you're in luck because I've got two jobs." Her face fell for the briefest of seconds. Ah, so she was learning Cas wouldn't make this easier for her. Come to me, little mate. "I'm also a General for the Inferno armies. Do you want to hear about that?"

Her tongue darted out across her lips, wetting them. Taking her merry ass time in replying. She dragged out his pain intentionally.

"Of course I do."

"Bull-fucking-shit."

Maybe Cas could be more discreet too. He did want this woman to like him, after all.

Luis sidled up to him, slipping between him and Sofia. "Hey man. You're taking your damn time."

Cas glanced up at him. "I'll be back in a sec."

"Oh, I see it." Luis smirked, clasping Cas' shoulder. "You've found something pretty to replace me with."

With an eyeroll, Caspian huffed. "Sofia, this is my housemate Luis. Luis, Sofia."

"So that's all I am to you now? A housemate?"

"I'll be with you in a minute."

"But—"

"Fuck off Luis."

"Whatever you say Cassy."

His housemate scampered off, casting him a smirk on his walk.