Empress Of Wrath, Blood And Desire

Chapter 22: Chemistry

The following day

The sharp crack of bullets echoes through the air, shattering bottle targets with each precise shot. I load another round, savoring the satisfying aftermath of my last perfect aim.

The warm sunlight dances across my skin and hair as I meet each bottle with unwavering precision, making splattering messes with the glass.

A few soldiers linger nearby, either standing guard or pacing the yard, their presence doubled since Marcello's uncle arrived. His uncle is Godric's father, he came to discuss the matters involving the enemies Marcello has made.

They've been at it for hours. I know because Marcello promised to find me the moment their meeting ended.

While he was gone, I was introduced to a lady named Sofia, who helped me with the gown I would wear tonight at the ball.

As it turns out, the event is being hosted by Belle-Marcello's grandmother, and, by extension, Godric's as well.

The afternoon insects and colorful brilliance filled the air around me, and everything couldn't be more perfect. The grass is as green as it can be, and the trees stand tall and beautiful just a few feet away.

What I love most about the back of the wonderful house is the pond just a few feet away, teeming with fish and reflecting the radiance of the surroundings.

Oh, I hate ruining the place with shells and shattered glass, but I've got to make sure my aim is still as sharp as ever. Not that I doubt it, but it never hurts to test it whenever I can. 

Besides, it's been too long since I last pulled the trigger. 

"Looks like you don't need anyone watching your back. You are the protection..."

Before he can finish his sentence, I whip around, aiming my gun at his head. Godric, unfazed, casually raises a hand in mock surrender, stopping beside me with a shotgun slung over his shoulder. 

"Not even I shoot as well as you," he muses, admiration lacing his voice. 

"Pity," I mutter, rolling my eyes. I pivot back, aim, and fire, my bullet slicing through the bottle, shattering it into countless fragments. 

He watches the glass rain down with a crooked grin. "Say, I'm jealous."

"You wouldn't be the first..." I exhale sharply, lowering my gun as I feel a tad thirsty as I've been at this for a while.

I bend down, grabbing the bottle of water I left on the ground earlier. Twisting off the cap, I take a few sips as Godric starts firing at nearby targets, surprisingly hitting most of them.

While he's focused, I take the chance to study him. He's as tall as I am, muscular, and undeniably sexy. Silver suits him well, even with that close-cropped hair. Dressed in black trousers pants and a white dress shirt, he's polished, elegant even, but he'll never come close to Marcellous.

That man was crafted to perfection.

"I'm not that bad, though," Godric mutters between shots, a smug grin curling his lips.

I smirk, capping the bottle and setting it aside before strolling over to him. "Could be better, though." 

He chuckles, low and easy. "I'll work on it. Coming from you, I'm almost humbled."

I tilt my head, leveling my gaze on him. "I see where you're coming from," I murmur, raising my gun and shooting his bottle without hesitation or looking. Glass explodes into shards, leaving him astounded. "I know it stings to be outdone by a girl."