Tempting the Demon. Elle James

She leaned close and kissed his cheek. “I’ve missed you.”

      Steam rose around my collar. “We’re here on business,” I said, my tone hard and flat.

      Giselle’s brows arched beautifully. “Who’s your little friend?”

      If you so much as twitch a smile—

      “Giselle,” Blaise cut into my thought. “Meet Agent Katya Danske of Manhattan’s Fifth Precinct.”

      I noted he hadn’t prefaced my intro with my partner, as he normally did, which was fine by me. I’d asked for distance.

      The woman’s gaze swept over me from head to foot and dismissed me as she returned her attention to Blaise. “Are you here about the dead demon in twelve-thirteen? Such a dreadful ordeal.”

      “We hate to keep you from your work,” I said, unable to erase all the sarcasm. “If you could give us the key, we’ll check it out.”

      Still directing her attention to Blaise, she rested a hand on his arm. “I’d be delighted to show you to the room.”

      “That’s not necessary. We can manage without you. If I could have the key.” I held out my hand.

      Giselle pouted at Blaise. “I insist. How often do I get to see my favorite demon?” She turned to the reception desk and asked for the key, and then walked with Blaise toward the bank of elevators, completely ignoring me.

      I told myself that I didn’t give a crap if she ignored me, but her arm through Blaise’s was making me want to jump on her back and rip her beautiful long brown hair out of her head.