436 Checking if She’s Still Here

Winter in New York had already turned bone-chilling.

Satan coughed softly, trying to suppress the sound, but even his restrained effort echoed with a rasp that made Emily feel uneasy. The kind of deep, hoarse cough that hinted at something far worse.

“You shouldn’t be out here in the cold," Emily said. "Dylan already works too hard, and now he has to babysit you, taking care of your health. How much are you paying him to make him willing to play nurse for you?”

Satan’s complexion was pale. He wiped the corner of his mouth with the back of his hand and quietly tucked it behind his back. “I’ll give Dylan the best compensation.”

But Emily had already noticed his movements. Her gaze followed his hidden hand. “Show me.”

“I’m fine.”

Emily didn’t buy it. She reached over and pulled his hand from behind his back.

“What’s this?” She pointed to the streak of red on his fingertips. “You’re coughing up blood again?”

“It’s nothing.”