Bitten By Magic by Kelliea Ashley Read Free Book Online

himself the second opportunity allowed. She could see him speaking with several other men in the center of the room.
    “You don’t look very bride-like, Keeper.” Warren Montgomery held a glass out to her. “Drink this. It might help.” His blue eyes twinkled merrily as he grinned at her.
    “You are enjoying this enough for the both of us, Montgomery.” Alexa took the glass with a shake of her head. She didn’t want alcohol. She wanted a Tums and a cup of her hot tea. Neither seemed forthcoming, though.
    “Yes, I am.” He chuckled happily.
    “I’ll remember that the next time I find you locked buck-naked in a steamer trunk.” Raising an eyebrow, she aimed a knowing look his way.
    “I have a warning system now.” He pulled back the sleeve of his jacket to show her the fancy wristwatch he was wearing. “This beeps well before daybreak.”
    “I can’t wait for the day when the battery dies on you.”
    “Ah...Alexa, you wouldn’t wish me harm like that. Would you, Sweetheart?” He reached out to cup her cheek with a gentle hand. Instantly, she felt the hair on the back of her neck prickling. She looked to the side and her gaze collided with the angry glare of her groom. He was moving toward them like an avenging angel. A very dark angel.
    “Montgomery, I think it is time for you to check in at the gate.” Warren jumped, yanking back his hand at the Elder’s words. His blond head immediately dropped in the sign of respect.
    “At once, Elder.” He turned on his heel and headed for the exit.
    “Did you have to be so rude, Elder?” She lifted her chin as his dark gaze turned to her.
    “How I interact with my people is my business, Keeper. I suggest, in the future, that you refrain from letting my men touch you. I don’t share.”
    “Somehow, that does not surprise me.” A wicked shiver of expectation slid down her spine as his eyes narrowed at her.
    “It is time to dance.” He took her hand in his and pulled her towards the middle of the crowd. “You do know how to waltz?” he asked as they stood in the middle of the crowded room facing each other. Alexa bit her lower lip as she turned her head to scan the people surrounding them. They were smiling and waiting for the newlyweds to start the dancing, as was the tradition in most cultures. Witches were no exception, but she danced in the moonlight, usually to the beat of drums or the sweet sound of the wind through the leaves of the trees. Clothing was always optional in her coven, but she’d never felt comfortable being naked, so she’d always worn the Witches’ wrap, a robe of silk in the individual’s colors. Alexa’s was dark blue, because her mother was a Water Witch.
    “No.” She shook her head as she looked back at the guests’ expectant faces. A shiver shook her as firm fingers grasped her chin. He turned her head back to him.
    “Move as I move, Witch.” He wrapped an arm around her waist as he spoke. “Place your hand on my shoulder.” He nodded with approval as she followed his instruction. Then he took her other hand in his and began to glide around the room to the beat of the music.
    Alexa bit back an apology as her bare foot stepped on his dress shoe. Suddenly his arm around her waist tightened as he easily lifted her off her feet. He kept his gaze just over her head and continued to dance without comment. The move effectively took her out of the dancing equation and placed her entire body in direct contact with the hard contours of his. Several female guests sighed at the romantic gesture.
    Alexa, unfamiliar with another taking complete control from her, just wanted it over. Though her body was quaking like she’d been plugged into an electric outlet, her independent streak was making her antsy to step away. She was relieved when the dance ended. He eased her back to the cold tiles of the floor and dropped his arms from around her. The sudden applause turned quickly into shouts demanding that he kiss her. She felt her cheeks