He looks sad. ‘I can be in your life if you choose to return to your shitty job and shitty flat. My boss is willing to cancel your previous contract because of how you said how you felt about me in the shower...’
Shit, did Lucifer actually hear that?
‘And he’s willing to turn a blind eye to us ... being together,’ he continues.
‘Then I don’t have to think about it,’ I say quickly. ‘I choose my shitty life as long as you’re in it.’
Sebastian stares at me, looking a bit shocked. ‘Think about what you’re saying, Jade. You’d be giving up this fantastic life for me. A devil.’
‘It’s a no-brainer,’ I say. ‘I love you. Coming home to you from a day of telemarketing would be like heaven on earth.’
He smiles at me, perfect white teeth glowing. ‘Thank you. I have a similar feeling about you, especially as I’m being further demoted to doing admin work. Anyway, I should let you know there’s another catch. A worse one.’
Of course there is. Lucifer likes to meddle in people’s happiness.
‘What is it?’
He gestures to his ripped body. ‘This is how you wanted me to look. Tube guy. Your dream man. I won’t look like this in private with you when we’re together. I’ll be in my true form.’
I swallow. ‘Which is?’
‘Ah, something that might make you wee your knickers in fright. But remember, it’ll still be me. And I love you.’
‘If you love me, I can handle anything,’ I whisper.
‘Are you ready to see the real Sebastian Burns, Jadey lady?’
I nod, palms sweating.
‘Then shut your eyes, darling. There’s going to be a bit of heat involved.’
Dutifully, I close my eyes, wondering what the heck I’m letting myself in for. But I love him. I don’t care what he looks like.
There’s a flash of intense heat, and a sulphur smell permeates the air, and Sebastian’s presence grows ... larger. Oh, dear Lucifer, what is he turning into?
‘Open your eyes, sweetheart,’ says Sebastian, sounding extremely nervous and his voice more gravelly than usual.
Honestly, I really think he should have prepared me a little more. And I’m sure we’ll look back on this moment in years to come and laugh ourselves silly. But when I open my eyes and see what’s standing before me, my brain short-circuits.
It’s horrifying. It’s shocking.
But that cheeky grin is unmistakeable.
‘FUCK YOU, SEBASTIAN!’ I scream at the top of my lungs.
Epilogue
JADE
Therearesomethingsyou shouldn’t do if you want to live a long and healthy life.
Smoke.
Take drugs.
Swim in shark-infested waters.
Make a deal with a handsome, horny devil ...