Darkyn's Mate

"I've been trying to think of how to do that." Past-Death was pensive.

Deidre couldn't help wondering how the woman was able to ask such favors after hurting her so badly. Grudgingly, she spoke honestly, knowing there was nothing anyone - even Gabriel - could do to break a double bond.

"Remind him why he fell in love with you. He loves … your spontaneity, your sense of humor." She tapped one of her fangs absently. "He loves …you and always has. He's always loved the side of you that laughs. The part of you that makes him forget how grey his world is." Her throat tightened at the memory of the night she met Gabriel.

"My gods. How do you know this?" Past-Death's words were barely audible.

"I ..." Deidre blinked away her tears.

"You figured that out after a week, and I know nothing after thousands of years," Deidre whispered. "If you weren't blood-bound, I'd give him to you now."

Deidre was silent for a moment, wrestling with herself. Several days ago, she would have jumped at the chance. She let herself think what she'd do, if she had the choice between the two. Seeing Past-Death's desperation made Deidre realize Rhyn was right. The bond brought mates together, but it didn't create a relationship. It didn't create trust or affection or hope or love. Accepting, loving, trusting someone - even if bonded - was beyond Immortal Laws to dictate. There was still a choice.

What she started to feel for Gabriel had been real; what she felt for Darkyn was real. It gave her a little bit of peace, knowing she wasn't solely at the mercy of the Immortal Laws and Fate.

She shook her head in response to Past-Death.

"If I can win over the Dark One, you can win over Death," she added. "You have the advantage that he already loves you."

"Not sure why you're trying to help me," Past-Death said, tears sparkling in her eyes.

"I want to see Gabriel happy," Deidre replied honestly. "You are the only person who can do that."

"You really believe that?"

"I do."

"It's not going to happen in a week," Past-Death said, pacing.

"No."

Past-Death waited for her to say more.

Deidre hugged herself, hearing the unasked question about their deal. Darkyn said even if she won, Past-Death could live an eternity. Deidre had no idea what to say and even less of an idea what exactly happened when the deal was over.

"Are you allowed to leave Hell?" Past-Death asked.

Deidre nodded.

"If I don't fuck up everything and wipe out the world or die-dead in two days, I think I'd like to talk to you more," Past-Death said. "If you're interested in being the friend of someone like me."