A Squirrel Finds His Nut: An Enchanted Ink Prequel by Kelex

Author:Kelex [Kelex]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Twisted E-Publishing, LLC
Published: 2024-01-15T18:30:00+00:00

Chapter

Five

Luca paused in front of Cassius’ studio door, the telltale buzzing behind the door informing him his mentor was with a client. The second he heard it stop, he lifted his hand to knock.

“Come in, Luca.”

He chuckled to himself and spun the knob. Cassius’ client—a witch from a local coven—glared at him.

“You let this Gypsy trash in here, Cas?”

Luca stiffened.

Cassius’ normally jovial expression turned to stone. Luca saw quiet rage on Cassius’ face as he slowly lowered his tattoo gun. “Get the fuck out of here.”

The man glared. “You’re not done.”

Cassius tossed a bag of coin at the man. “No, but you are. Get out.”

The witch offered Luca another glare before pushing off the tattoo chair and stalking to the door. He paused beside Luca at the entrance and turned to cast one last look at Cassius. “My coven’ll hear about this.”

“Make sure you tell them. We don’t allow our clients to disrespect the members of my coven under this roof,” Cassius roared.

The witch hissed at Luca and departed.

As soon as the coast was clear, Luca eyed Cassius. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“Yes, I did.”

“I’ve heard that shit my entire life. My skin is thick enough that it doesn’t bother me anymore.” Which was a lie. It stung. Only Luca had gotten better at hiding it.

Cassius rose from his rolling stool and crossed his private studio. He placed both hands on Luca’s shoulders. “As I said to him, no one disrespects the members of my coven under my own roof. No matter how much gold is in their coin purse.” He held Luca’s stare. “You might’ve heard it your entire life, but that stops here. This is your home. You will be respected here.”

Luca fought the lump in his throat. “Thanks.”

Cassius offered a slight smile. “And yes, you can have the rest of the afternoon and evening off to spend with your mate. The next couple, too, if you want.”

Luca frowned. “How the hell did you know about Ash?”

“We’ve got to work on your masking skills. I’m sure the entire coven sensed your excitement taking him up to your apartment.”

Heat crept onto Luca’s face. Strong emotions could be projected through the coven if not masked. Luca had been struggling with that lesson, but he’d thought he had made progress. Yet meeting one’s mate was one of the strongest of strong emotions, so hopefully they’d cut him some slack.

Cassius winked. “I’m glad you enjoyed your afternoon with him.”

Luca’s face scorched.

Cassius dug into his pocket and brought out a money clip. He peeled off a few bills before handing them over. “Go have fun.”

Luca eyed the money. “I can’t.”

“The money you earn is put into the coven’s pot. You’ve been here a year and haven’t asked for a single thing for yourself. Here. Go. Have fun with your mate.” Cassius grinned. “You’ve earned it.”

Luca didn’t feel comfortable taking it. He hadn’t asked for anything because the coven supplied everything he needed. A roof over his head. A place of employment. Food at the café.

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