Lucifer

Chapter 20

Lucifer was not happy when we showed up near the end of lunch. He was glowering as we entered the room. Trozzer was talking away at all the implications. My stomach was in knots not just from recounting the events of the past few months, beginning from the witch snatching me from bed and ending at healing Lucifer in the house. 

It was also because being around him was mentally and physically hard for me. The longer I was in his presence the more the cold gripped me. Sometimes it felt as if was fingers wrapping tightly around my throat. 

I chose a seat next to Lucifer, and far from Trozzer on the other side of the table as the next open seat was Divaolo's spot. Even though he didn't typically join us for meals often, we tended to leave that spot at the head of the table for him. 

Trozzer took the seat effortlessly, reading over his notes from my recounting. Lucifer cocked an eyebrow at me. 

"I'm fine, just tired," I told him quietly. 

Lucifer turned his eyes to Trozzer, watching his every move. I ignored it. Other than the constant chill he seemed harmless. I just wanted to eat, and get some rest. 

Lunch ended quickly, and I started to wander off to my room, seeking the comfort of my bed.

"Isabel," I heard Trozzer call from behind. 

I stopped and turned, mentally preparing myself for the cold as he walked up to me.

"Yes?" 

"I was hoping that we might continue after lunch. I haven't had a chance to look at the markings yet," he asked.

I hugged myself tightly, the warm white jacket not quite enough to keep his pervading chill away. 

"I'm sure you have a lot more to do than just work on my issues," I tried.

"Actually there is nothing I would rather do more," he continued. 

A small frown crept across my face. He either didn't pick up on the subtle hints that I didn't want to go, or he was ignoring them. A sneaking suspicion told me it was the latter. 

"Trozzer," came Lucifer's growling voice behind him. "Are you trying to go behind my back, or do you think I am just that stupid?" 

"I do not understand your meaning," Trozzer replied, feinting innocence. 

Lucifer, who typically towered over others, was eye level with him. 

"I told you earlier that you would be done by lunch. There will be no more for today. I do not want to have to repeat myself again. This is your last warning," Lucifer all but snarled at Trozzer.

To his credit, Trozzer did not back down in the slightest. 

"Apologies, I meant no disrespect," he replied simply. 

Lucifer sneered at him, not quite accepting of his words. He pressed his hand to my back, guiding me away from Trozzer and in the direction of my room. 

Just before we were out of earshot I heard Trozzer call from behind, "Till tomorrow then."

Standing in front of my door Lucifer looked down at me with concern. 

"You look tired," he commented. 

I rubbed my face. We really hadn't done much, but it was exhausting all the same. 

"I am. His chill takes a lot out of me," I yawned. 

Lucifer looked sympathetic. 

"I know it's not an ideal situation but as of right now we do need him. Just be careful not to push yourself too much, and be careful around him. Trozzer is known for being ruthless and cutthroat," Lucifer warned.