Chapter Five

 

“Do you know what time it is?”

“Of course.” Christoff answered. “I do own a watch.”

“I forgot who I was talking to, and please don’t respond to that, it was rhetorical.”

Christoff sighed. Humans. If he lived another thousand years, he’d never understand them.

 “Listen, Palmer. I want the name and address of the man you paid to follow Evangeline. He needs to be taught a lesson.”

“Wait just a minute.” Terry cleared his throat. “What lesson? What are you talking about?”

“I asked you to have her followed, not beaten. Your lackey sexually assaulted her and blackened her eye. I will not tolerate such behavior.” He could feel the tension knotting his shoulders and he struggled to control the volume of his speech.

“No way.” Terry argued. “My man is a pussy cat with women. When he phoned in his surveillance report he couldn’t stop commenting on how nice she seemed. He said he left the moment she walked into a different room of the library.”

“If not him, who attacked her?”

“Give me a minute to leave the room,” Terry asked, “I don’t want to wake Susie.”

Within minutes, the volume of his voice changed.

“Okay, I’ve just checked my computer, and in his report, Adam mentioned two other people sitting at the same table with him and your gypsy. Another man and an older woman. One of those could have been the unsub.”

“I will give your colleague the benefit of the doubt, for now.” But I’ll be keeping an eye on him.

“Gee, thanks.” The sarcasm in Terry’s voice was clear, even to Christoff. “Now, fuck off back to your coffin and stop calling me at three in the morning.”

The line went dead. Christoff shrugged and strolled to the refrigerator for a snack.

The left-over slices of pizza glared at him from the almost empty shelves inside the refrigerator as he reached for his morning bag of blood. He raised an eyebrow, pondering Evangeline’s choice of food. Given cart-blanche, she chose fast food? He shook his head. It didn’t make sense. He’d followed her for weeks. Watched her steal and blackmail, extort, and demand exorbitant amounts of money from unsuspecting customers. Why then didn’t her lifestyle reflect this? She’d told him her refrigerator was out of order. Surely that would be a priority? Even her clothes bore the tags of bargain basement stores. He’d caught a glimpse of the tag at the base of her neck, while whispering his terms into her ear. He scratched his chin and wondered if she even had clothes suitable for the restaurant he’d planned to take her to this evening. Should he ask? The image of her proud face materialized in his mind. He shook the idea from his thoughts and decided on a better course of action.

****

What’s that noise? Evangeline stretched her arms above her head and checked the time on her phone. 9:00 AM. Sleeping had proven difficult after the events of the previous day and especially the night. Even her dreams had been disturbingly X-rated. Her nipples strained against the cotton tank top. Her satin boxers clung uncomfortably against her skin, damp from the memory of her dream lover’s hands stroking her, teasing her, tasting her.

Bang, bang, bang.

“All right, I’m coming!” She called to the intruder at her door. A smile spread across her face. If the caller had waited a few minutes longer…

“Who is it?” The chain provided enough room to peek through the crack. She hoped it would give her enough time to slam and lock the door if her attacker had found her.

“I have a delivery for Ms. Evangeline Russo.”

“I didn’t order anything.” What was this young guy playing at? Was it a trap?

“The invoice says it’s from a Mr. Christoff Berg. I need a signature.”

Chris? What would he have sent me? Interesting. She closed the door, unlatched the chain, and flung the door open, posing with one hand on the handle, the other on her hip. Judging by the delivery man’s face, he appreciated the view and the size of his package impressed her as well. Was there a body in that box?

“Sign here please.” The young man stammered as he held out the electronic device and stylus.

As she handed back the apparatus, she grabbed the package and after struggling to squeeze it into the door frame, shut the door behind her. Absently, she called her thanks through the door as she began to tear into the box. A gift, for me? When was the last time she’d received anything by courier? Come to think of it, not once. She’d never stayed in a location long enough to have an actual postal address and for good reason. For the longest time, she stared at the pale pink tissue paper wrapping and the magenta ribbons binding the parcel. Whatever it was, it looked too pretty to open. Too pretty for a woman who made a living from seducing men into doing her bidding. No. Red suited her better. Scarlet like the label she’d been given.

She sat cross-legged on the linoleum floor and gently untied the bows, gasping when the prize was revealed. A dress? Not just a dress, a beautiful, mint green dress made from the softest fabric she’d ever touched. Her fingers skimmed the material. As smooth as butter. Carefully, she lifted it from the box and held it up to the full-length mirror near her bed. The full skirt sat at a modest length, just below her knees, but nothing else about the dress suggested modesty. Beside the band of fabric behind the neck, it was otherwise backless, and the plunging neckline left little to the imagination, opening to the waist. She returned to the empty box, searching for a note and found an envelope addressed to her. Inside, along with a note, she discovered a satin thong in the same color as the dress. Her eyebrows knit as she examined the skimpy underwear. Hardly more than a scrap of lace and a few ribbons of satin. Her hand shook as she read the note aloud.

“I have taken the liberty to choose an appropriate ensemble for you in preparation for our dinner and my après dinner entertainment.”

Après dinner? Her hand shot to her mouth as she remembered the whispered addendum.

“Don’t expect me to be satisfied by a glimpse of cleavage. I want to see all of you. Every last inch of your flesh.”

She held up the panties between finger and thumb and swallowed the lump caught in her throat. He’d left nothing to chance. The plunging neckline of the dress insured she’d be braless and, for the amount of flesh this thong would cover, she may as well be altogether naked. Blood pumped a steady, rhythmic beat in her ears, but her heart left enough to send to every erogenous zone in her body. This man knew exactly what he wanted and for now, he wanted her. Would that change once he had his precious locket? Would he use her body and discard her like trash? She looked from the dress back to her reflection in the mirror. Her last boyfriend had told her she had a body for sin. Despite this, he’d stolen her savings and left. With a shake of her head, she placed the dress carefully on the bed and moved her meager clothes in the wardrobe to reveal the wall safe. As she dug out the bag containing the locket, she made up her mind. He could have her body. Hell, if his body was any indication of his lovemaking, she might even enjoy it, but if he wanted the contents of that locket, he’d better be willing to pay.

****

Evangeline tossed the clumsy oven mitts aside and glared at the locket. She flipped it over with a pocket knife and studied it through the magnifying glass she’d found in a thrift store. No visible opening on either end. Who the hell designed this idiotic thing? The wall clock warned her that time was running out. Chris wanted his pound of flesh at precisely 7:00 PM. She had less than an hour to shower and dress for their rendezvous. With a sigh, she reached out with her bare left hand, and picked up the locket, wincing as the metal seared her skin.

Digging the point of the knife into the right side of the clasp, she wriggled and prodded the lock, hoping to break it open. Maybe Chris won’t notice the marks on the metal? He’d only seen the medallion through the window of the caravan. She’d tell him she’d found it that way. What choice did he have but to believe her?

 With one final shove, the knife slipped past the join and into the soft flesh of her palm. Blood pooled into the intricate engravings on the face of the locket. For one startling moment, the wolf’s eyes flamed to life and then, the entire motif flooded scarlet as Evangeline’s blood filled every crevice. Then, just as quickly, the blood disappeared, as if swallowed by the carnivorous wolf.

“Fuck. That’s weird.”

The locket dropped to the table and sprang open, revealing a tiny metal scroll. She ran to the tiny bathroom, tore a few sheets of toilet paper from the roll and balled it in her left hand as she warily removed the cylinder with her right hand. No sooner had she removed it, when the locket snapped shut, leaving no sign of ever having opened. Tempting as it was to unroll the tiny treasure, she realised that risk of discovery was too real. If she kept Chris waiting, he’d surely snoop around, possibly spot the scroll. No. Better to hide it away in the safe until later. In the morning, she’d have plenty of privacy and the time to research its value. Tonight, held more important issues, like … how to seduce a vampire and survive.

****

“All right, already. Don’t get your knickers in a twist.”

Christoff screwed up his face at the strange comment. What did she mean by that reference? He’d merely knocked repeatedly on her door. After all, she should have expected him. He checked his wrist watch. 7:00 PM precisely. He raised his hand to knock again, but it opened before his knuckles reached the door.

  “I hope these sandals look okay with the dress,” she told him as she posed in the doorway. “Normally, I prefer sneakers, and these are my only heels.”

He took a moment to answer, afraid his voice would betray him.

“No one will be looking at your feet.”

Raising his right arm, he offered her his hand and helped her down the metal steps. Her small, olive skinned hand appeared delicate in his large, pale one. Delicate, except for the small rectangular dressing on her palm and the pink, blistered skin surrounding it.

“You’re hurt?”

She pulled her hand away, hiding it behind her back as if the sight of it lessened her appeal. A smile threatened to spread his lips. If anything, the action straightened her shoulders, forcing her chest forward and drawing even more attention to her breasts.

“Hey, eyes up here,” she reminded him with a sweep of her hand before answering his question. “I had an accident with a knife this afternoon. Nothing major.”

He regarded her facial expression with wonder. Why had she denied the burn? He’d seen enough scorched flesh in his time, usually his own, and recognized the significance. Shame closed his eyes. He’d instructed her to bring the medallion and thereby caused her injury. The drawstring purse at her wrist bore the telltale weight of a locket. He’d seen the blasted thing glowing with preternatural heat and her reaction to it. How could he have been so insensitive to her human fragility? She must have burned her hand as she placed it in her bag, as per his instructions. Drawing in a deep breath, he opened his eyes and drank her in. Her huge doe eyes, staring at him in wonder. Her full, bow-shaped lips slick with pink gloss and just a hint of perspiration. The slight deviation in her septum, an imperfection that made her even more perfect in his eyes. Round, rosy cheeks, accentuated by a strong jaw and chin. He tilted his head to the right. Why had he never noticed the widow’s peak of her forehead and the way it forced her features into the shape of a heart? Of course. Her thick, unruly hair had been carefully pinned in an up style with the exception of a few wayward strands that had escaped to fall around her face.

“You look lovely, min dyrebare.” He again offered his arm, elbow out. “Come, our table awaits.”

She accepted his arm and allowed him to lead her towards his car, but he sensed reluctance, a slowing of her step, until she finally stopped at the car and confessed.

“Look, Chris. I appreciate the dinner invitation, but couldn’t we just order out?”

“No. We have reservations.” He held firm to her elbow and tried to edge her closer to the car. She dug in her heels.

“It’s just… I’ve never…” Genuine fear widened her already huge eyes. Fear that he could put to rest.

“If it puts your mind at ease. I have never eaten in a restaurant either.”

Her mouth formed the shape of an O and she blinked a few times. “You haven’t been in a restaurant? But I thought—”

“Oh, I’ve been in restaurants,” he corrected, “I just don’t eat.”

Her eyebrows drew into a frown. “Stop messing with my head.”

He leaned back against the side of his Porsche and folded his arms. “I can, and sometimes do eat human food, but it is not necessary for my survival. I do not eat at restaurants because I do not enjoy eating alone. Tonight will be a night of many firsts … for both of us.”

“Many?” Her face visibly paled and he heard the sharp intake of her breath as he leaned in close to her face.

“Many.”

****

“Oh, shit, shit, shit.” Evangeline lowered her chin and avoided eye contact with the couple about to pass their table.

Christoff leaned forward and, with the tip of his finger, raised her chin. “Back straight. Eyes forward. They will not recognize you.”

She reluctantly did as he instructed, but held her breath. Would they cause a scene? Maybe have her thrown out before she’d even ordered?

As they passed, the male nodded to Christoff and the female smiled, but they followed their waiter to their table without a word. What just happened?

“Did you use some type of mind control?”

“Why would you think that?”

“I expected… I don’t know what I expected.” She shrugged her shoulders and scratched at the base of her neck.

“Stop that.”

She dropped her hands into her lap, silently cursing herself for obeying him. Why should she care what he thinks? This was a business transaction, nothing more. Remember that, she instructed the butterflies that had taken flight in her stomach from the moment they’d arrived at the fancy schmancy restaurant. So many knives and forks, not to mention the glasses. How many glasses did one person need? The waiter handed her a menu and the butterflies dropped … stone cold dead. Cold sweat began to bead on her upper lip and her legs turned to jelly.

He looked up from his menu, opened his mouth to speak, then paused. The coldness in his blue eyes melted away and something in her heart thawed along with it when he gently took the menu from her hand.

“Would you mind if I ordered for you? I’d like to surprise you.”

She let out the breath she’d been holding and nodded. “So much to choose from. I couldn’t make up my mind.”

He smiled and her heart back-flipped. Why hadn’t she noticed how handsome he was? Maybe because he hadn’t flashed those pearly whites before? Or was it the gentleness in his features when he wasn’t trying to look intimidating? He held her gaze, even as he motioned for the waiter. By the time the first course arrived, she’d fallen hopelessly in lust.

****

Despite himself, Christoff couldn’t help but admire the woman. She’d adapted to the new situation with class. Mirroring his actions. Choosing the right cutlery and crystal. No wonder she’d excelled in her profession. Her people skills were excellent. If he hadn’t seen her curled up on his couch, stuffing her face with pizza, he’d believe her to be every bit the lady she portrayed.

Resting his elbow on the table, he leaned his chin between his thumb and forefinger to ponder. Why choose a life of crime when she could easily use her ‘talents’ to snag a rich husband? She caught him staring and bit her bottom lip. Coyness? Color rushed to her cheeks and a blush spread down her neck to her breasts. This is new.

“Do I have something on my face?” She nervously swiped at her mouth with a napkin while avoiding eye contact.

Strange thing to say. “No. Why do you ask?”

She dropped the napkin back in her lap and frowned. “The way you were staring at me, I thought I must have grown another head.”

“I don’t understand humans,” he shook his head while remembering, “Susie hyperventilated when I studied her face. Why are you women so nervous?”

An invisible barrier went up between them. She squared her shoulders and held her chin high, as if he’d somehow insulted her.

“I only met her once, but she is beautiful.”

“Who?”

“Susie.” Her eyes rolled, and she sighed. “You said you were staring at her.”

“Oh, yes. She has the strangest eye color. I have since learned that my gaze is unsettling.”

She looked up at him from under a heavy fringe of dark lashes and smiled. “Really? I hadn’t noticed.”

He tried to fake a frown, but he could feel the corners of his mouth curl. “I am learning to understand sarcasm. You are making fun of me.”

She held out her hand, thumb and forefinger slightly apart. “Just a little bit.”

 He leaned forward and took her hand in his.

“You are a paradox, a great mystery to me. What drove you to a life of deceit when you could be whatever you choose? Why have you not chosen a husband?”

Ebony eyes stared at him. Her face contorted into an expression he could not comprehend. Anger? Surprise? Pain? She snatched her hand away and put it in her lap.

“How is what I do any worse than a head-shrinker? They come to me with a problem and I give them peace of mind.”

He leaned forward. “And what of the husbands? What do you give them?”

Her nostrils flared. “Let me tell you something, buster. They get what they deserve. A reminder to keep it in their pants or pay the piper. I’m doing the wives a favor.”

“How? By having coitus with their husbands?”

He caught her hand inches from his face and held it as she shook. “Coitus? Fancy words don’t make it any less of an insult. Don’t play the gentleman now, Chris. It doesn’t suit you.”

What had he said to upset her? Had he not stated the obvious?

“What would you have me say?”

“You swear you always tell the truth. Why did you bring me here? Was it to shame me? Well, I’ve got news for you, asshole. I may be a lot of things but I’m not a slut. I scam the husbands, but I don’t fuck them. My body is not for sale.”

Her words hit him as hard as a slap. He’d made a mistake. A mistake that caused her emotional pain. Had he lived alone too long, or had he always lacked empathy? Despite her angry expression, tears brimmed her lower lashes and she rose to leave.

“Wait.” He snagged her hand. “Please, wait.”

She hesitated, glanced around at the sea of faces watching her, and slunk back into her seat.

“What now? Are you going to demand that striptease here in the restaurant?”

“If you did that, I would be forced to kill every other man here.” She’d asked for the truth, but would she understand? She belonged to him now. “Now, shall we order dessert?”

Her left eyebrow raised, and she leaned forward on her elbow. “You’re not upset?”

“Why should I be upset?”

“I’ve just told you that we won’t be getting groiny later. Aren’t you going to throw a fit or something?”

Closing the dessert menu, he shooed away the approaching waiter with a flick of his wrist. “I suggest we renegotiate our agreement.”

She crossed her arms in front of her chest and he growled his disapproval until she dropped them by her sides.

“You promised me fifty thousand.”

“And you shall have it.”

“I only promised to take off my clothes, nothing more.”

He motioned to her with a wiggle of his finger and she leaned closer, inches from his face.

“When the time comes for us to make love, I will take your lead.”

“I don’t understand.” She eased back in her seat, her eyes as wide as saucers. “What do you mean, ‘take my lead’?”

“I will not make any advances on you unless you instruct me to do so. When we return to the cottage, you will allow me to enjoy you with my eyes and my mind, but if you want my mouth to pleasure you, and my hands to fondle your body, you must ask. Those are my terms.”

A bead of sweat trickled down her forehead, tracing the shape of her jaw before dripping down between her breasts. Her sharp intake of breath aroused him, almost as much as the peaks forming at the front of her dress. He licked his lips in anticipation.

“What if I don’t ask?” she gasped. “Promise me you won’t hurt me, that you won’t punish me.”

Turning his head to the side, he motioned for the waiter. “You might enjoy my punishment.” He turned slightly to wink. “And you will ask.”

****

The face in the restroom mirror looked terrified. She blotted the sweat from her forehead and powdered her nose before applying a fresh coat of lip gloss and a spritz of perfume. No point in putting this off. She took a deep breath, opened the door, and felt the pressure of hands on her back moments before she fell forward. As she lay on the ground, stunned and confused, a woman’s scream pierced the silence. Fire!

Staff charged through the swinging doors that divided the restaurant from the kitchen. Instinctively, she curled into a ball to protect her face and stomach from the stampede of feet fleeing close to her head. Above the noise, she heard him call to her, but she dared not lift her head. Something brushed her arm, then tugged at her wrist. A hand grabbed for her. Christoff?

The purse at her wrist suddenly jerked. She held tight to the cord, the skin on the inside of her fingers burning as the assailant tugged the purse from her hands. Acrid smoke began to fill the room, blinding her as she struggled to her knees and began to crawl towards the exit. She tried to call out, but smoke filled her lungs, choking away her breath. What was that? She turned in the direction of the strange sound. A child, barely older that three or four hid under a tablecloth. Flames licked at the edges of the material. With a flick of her wrist, she sent the table flying backward and crawled to the little girl.

“It’s okay, honey. I’m going to get you out of here.”

“Mummy.” The girl cried, her cheeks already smudged with ash.

Evangeline squinted. The patrons had become little more than silhouettes in the darkened restaurant. Everything at the front of the building had been plunged into darkness. Where was the exit? The fire spread tendrils up the walls and crept across the ceiling. Soon the roof would collapse on top of them. Do something. She looked behind her for another way out. Damn. A wall of flame blocked her way. She reached out, her hand brushed a table. Something sloshed and the clink of crystal gave her an idea. She felt around until she touched the glass jug, lifted it to her mouth to be sure, then poured the water over the child’s head.

“I’m sorry kid,” she told the weeping girl, “but Aunty Evangeline needs to keep you nice and damp. It’s going to get pretty hot. Close your eyes and hold tight.” She squeezed the child close to her chest and braced herself for the heat as she prepared to run through the flames.

 Strong hands grabbed her by the shoulders. “You’ll never make it.”

He scooped her up, child and all, and she snuggled against his chest keeping the little girl completely covered by their bodies as, in a blur of speed, he carried them outside to the street. As he lowered her to the ground, she held tight to him, sandwiching the child between them. Afraid to let go of either. Unsteady on her feet.

“Violet!”

The child raised her head and thrust out her arms. “Mummy.”

Between sobs, the mother thanked them. “I was pushed out of the building when the fire started. I tried to get back in, but the firemen wouldn’t let me.” She kissed her child’s forehead. “Thank you. Thank you both. She’s all I’ve got. I don’t know how I could have lived if anything had happened to her.”

Christoff addressed the woman, but kept his gaze fixed on Evangeline. “I completely understand.”

His statement surprised her, confused her. Surely, he didn’t mean her? So far, his attention appeared to be sexually motivated. Dare she hope for more? He leaned his chin on the top of her head, his arms crushing her to his chest and she melted into his embrace.

“Are either of you hurt?”

She raised her head. The woman and child had gone. A fireman stood in their place.

She shook her head. “I’m a little battered and bruised, but otherwise okay. Christoff?”

“I am uninjured.” His eyebrows knit as he turned his attention back to her, grabbing her hands to examine them. “Your fingers are bleeding and your wrist is swollen. Perhaps you should seek medical attention.”

“Oh, that wasn’t from the fire.” She stared down at the ring of bruising at her wrist and reality set in. “Christoff! My bag! Someone stole my bag.”

“You’d better report that to the police,” the fireman said as he turned to leave. “Unfortunately, criminals take advantage of the chaos.”

Once they were alone, she told Christoff, “This happened before all hell broke loose. I was pushed to the ground. Whoever did it, ripped the bag from my wrist.” She held her chest.

“Can’t. Breathe.”

He scooped her up and rushed her to his car, placing her in the passenger seat.

“Calm yourself. Money can be replaced.”

She closed her eyes, reminding herself to breathe. Fifty thousand dollars down the drain. So close to getting everything she’d ever wanted in life and some bastard had stolen her golden ticket. How would Christoff react to the news?

“Evangeline?”

She opened her eyes and braced herself for his reaction as she reminded him, “It was your idea to bring the medallion with me.”

His hands shot out and held her by the shoulders. “The medallion was in your purse?”

“Where else did you expect me to carry it?” She cupped her breasts for effect. “This neckline plunges down to my waist, and the panties you made me wear are barely more than a triangle with strings attached.”

He released her shoulders and stared into the night. “You are right. I allowed my attraction to you to get in the way of my obligations. I and I alone am to blame for this.” He turned his head, his eyes cold and emotionless as he broke her heart. “I’ll drive you back to your mobile home and see to it that all preparations are made to get you back on the road. I will locate the medallion myself. Our business is finished.”

****

The journey home finished too soon. He wished that he could extend the trip, maybe even turn the car around and leave town, taking her with him. How could he have been so foolish? The medallion had been close enough to touch… Now, he’d let both the locket and the woman slip through his fingers.

“I’ll make the necessary calls tonight and have your engine replaced in the morning.” He opened the passenger door and offered his hand. She declined, stepping from the vehicle unassisted.

“So, that’s the end of it?” she asked. Her cheeks flushed with color as she breathed through her nose. “I don’t have what you want anymore, so I’m expendable?”

Didn’t she understand? He was releasing her from her promise, she should be happy. “I thought you’d be anxious to leave.”

“You promised me fifty thousand dollars. It’s not my fault the medallion was stolen. I lived up to my part of the bargain.”

Ah. The money. Somehow, during the course of the evening, he’d allowed himself the luxury of believing they’d connected on some level. Fool. What he’d mistaken as affection in her eyes was greed. A gold digger working out how much money she could steal from him. She was a thief, he, a monster. They probably deserved each other.

“Well, do you agree?”

“What? Did you say something?”

“Concentrate.” She balled up her fist and tapped on his forehead with her knuckles.

 He didn’t like it.

“I offered to give you something else for the money. Something I think might be even more valuable.”

His body betrayed him, warming to the notion she may be offering herself to him. She’d proven herself to be shameless and, damn it, he still wanted her. Wanted her enough to pay the fifty thousand if that was her price. He closed the distance between them.

“Fifty thousand dollars is a large amount of money. Are you worth it?”

“Will you get your mind out of the gutter.” She held him back with her outstretched arms. “I’m not offering to sell my body.”

“More’s the pity.” He turned away, ashamed that he’d admitted his desire, given her the upper hand.

“I opened the medallion.” She blurted out.

He spun around to face her. “You what? When?”

“This morning.” She dropped her chin, her eyes darting from her feet to the ground. “I thought … it looked like there might be something inside. I wanted to—”

“You wanted to rob me.”

“No, I—”

“Liar.” Was there no end to her deceit? “You made a deal, the money for the locket. That included anything inside it.”

Color flushed her cheeks and tears brimmed her bottom lashes. “You don’t understand.”

“No, I understand all too well.” Fake tears would not sway him from his decision. “The original terms of the agreement remain. I will have whatever it is you took from the locket.” He reached for her, snagging her wrist. “I am a man of patience, but you have pushed me to my limit.” Her mouth gaped open, her eyes widening as he dragged her towards the cottage. “No more games.”

“Where are you taking me?” she whimpered as they stormed past the living room towards his bedroom. “You made me a promise that you wouldn’t force me to do anything.”

He ignored the rapid beating of her pulse. However, the heady perfume of her arousal proved harder to overlook. This pleased him. Despite her protests, she wanted this.

“I wish to keep tonight’s entertainment private.” Slamming the bedroom door behind them, he sat on the edge of his bed. “The other rooms are fitted with security cameras. You promised me seductive dance, not my employers. I may be a vampire, however, I’m still a gentleman.”

“Pfft.” She leaned back against the door and crossed her arms. “You are no gentleman.”

“And you are no lady.” He mirrored her body language, crossing his arms across his chest and frowning. “Begin.”

****

“I need to use the bathroom.” Why did his hungry expression send her blood pumping to all her erogenous zones? Can’t breathe.

He pointed to an ensuite and she wasted no time rushing in, closing the door behind her. Leaning over the sink, she turned on the cold water and splashed her face and neck until some of the heat dissipated. When she looked up, the mirror reflected what she already suspected. Her eyes were as wide as saucers. Her face, neck and breasts a deeper shade of tan. With a tissue she took from the box on the vanity, she patted beneath her breasts and under her arms. Why was she so nervous? She’d stripped for men many times before. Why was tonight so different? Because, this one will not be satisfied with a glimpse of lace and a suggestive dance, her reflection reminded her. This man would make sure he’d get his money’s worth. His pound of flesh. As much as it pained her to admit it, she wanted to give it to him, and more. Much more.

“I’m waiting.”

She swallowed down the anxiety, threw her shoulders back and opened the door. The mood of the room had changed, softened. Fragrant candles replaced the glare from the bright overhead lights. Soft music played from the iPod speaker on a bedside cabinet with an open bottle of sparkling white wine beside it. As she approached, he offered her a glass which she accepted without complaint, downing the entire contents in one gulp after noticing that the bedlinen had been turned back. She held out the glass for a refill and drank that as fast as the first.

“Begin.” He leaned back on the bed, his shirt gaping just enough for her to notice the definition of his abs.

She felt the sting as her top teeth bit into her bottom lip. Why did he have to look so hot?

His frown warned her that he wouldn’t ask again. She began to sway to the music, hoping to find confidence in the beat of the slow ballad. It began to work. She closed her eyes, gyrating her hips in time to the music, losing herself in the moment as her hands molded the contours of her body.

“Open your eyes.”

She did as instructed, meeting his gaze with the same intensity. In that moment, she felt his compulsion, his control, his hands.

“How are you doing that?” she gasped as the pressure of invisible fingers traced her spine.

“Relax.”

Her body obeyed his words immediately. Warmth spread over her skin beneath the touch of his mind control. Try as she might to hate that he’d tricked her, she couldn’t help but enjoy the sensation of ghostly hands fondling her flesh. Damn him.

“You said you wouldn’t touch me.”

“With my hands.”

Memories of their earlier conversation flooded back. He’d promised to enjoy her with his eyes and mind. How was she to know what he could do with them? “This isn’t fair. You’re controlling me.”

“Tit for tat, my dear. How does it feel to have someone manipulate you like a marionette? Now, take down your hair.”

Her hands reached up to slide the clip holding her hair in the up-style, spilling dark curls down below her shoulders.

“Good,” he groaned, as she leaned down and swung her hair in a circular pattern, flipping it back in a jerk as her body kept time with the music.

Bending at the knees, she traced the outline of her right leg with her hands, from the top of her thigh, over her calf and down to her ankle. When she reached her sandal, she slipped it off and did the same on the left leg. As she straightened, her hands reached behind her neck and loosened the bow holding the dress in place. His breath hitched, or was it hers, as she brought the straps forward, lowering the dress until her breasts were half exposed.

He squirmed on the edge of the bed, leaning forward as she turned her back and let the dress fall to her waist.

“If you tease me,” he warned as her nipples felt the tug of incorporeal fingers, “you will force me to inflict unimaginable pleasure.”

“Unimaginable pleasure?” she repeated absently, as unseen hands lifted the weight of her breasts and squeezed. Dare she test him? After all, she did have a vivid imagination. Instead, she grasped the waistband of her dress, bent at the middle gifting him full view of her ample behind as she tugged the dress down over the lace thong, to her ankles and stepped out. Turning slowly, her hands covering her breasts, she kicked the dress at his head, using her telekinetic powers to ensure it wrapped around his face.

Without a word, he removed the dress from his face, shaking his head as a grin spread across his face.

“I did warn you.”

****

So that’s how she wants to play? A wicked thought sprung to mind, and his cock approved with a shudder. I’m going to enjoy this.

Her eyes widened, and her mouth gaped open as he sent a wave of heat down her soft belly to the pleasure nub between her legs. He’d seen her tease the pawn shop owner by pretending she was about to pleasure herself. This time, she’d perform the act. He’d make sure of it. Applying light pressure with his mind, he convinced her to remove her hands from her breasts and drop the left by her side. He had other plans for the right hand. She stared down in shock as her own hand slid inside the front of the flimsy excuse for panties and began to stroke the swollen clit, using the slickness of her own arousal to pleasure herself. As her legs began to wobble, he caught her and lowered her onto the bed while she moaned through each blissful wave.

Had he not been a man of his word, he would have torn the last scrap of fabric from her body and buried his face between her legs, but he’d given her his promise. No touching unless she asked. His plan had backfired. While she had been sated, he had Vesuvius in his trousers and it was threatening to blow.

Throwing her head back, she smiled and let out a long sigh of satisfaction that almost caused him to spontaneously combust. Worse still, she added fuel to the fire by telling him, “That was nice, but when does the unimaginable pleasure start?”

Was it the two glasses of wine loosening her inhibitions or was she warming to the idea of making love with him? Either way, he had no complaints. She hadn’t had enough alcohol to make her intoxicated, so he would not be taking advantage, and if the money was driving her desire, so be it. He would have her tonight. He matched her teasing with a taunt of his own.

“I’m the one paying fifty thousand dollars. What do I get out of this?”

She sat up and, as he held his breath, slipped out of the scant panties and scooted to the edge of the bed. When her hand squeezed his thigh, before travelling higher, he groaned his approval.

“When I dreamt of the moment you gave yourself to me, I fantasized about what I would like to do to you and have done to me.”

“You fantasize about me?” She lowered herself to her knees on the floor and positioned herself between his legs, spreading his knees with her hands before massaging her way towards his crotch. “What did I do to you, in this daydream?”

She reached for the wine and drank from the bottle, passing it to her left hand as she continued to stroke the inside of his leg with her right.

“I think you’re already reading my mind.” He sighed as her fingers unbuttoned his fly and tugged the zipper down. When her hand slipped inside his satin boxers and her fingers wrapped around his shaft and tightened, he groaned his instructions. “In my fantasy, you—”

She gazed up at him, smiled, then leaned down. As her lips touched the head of his cock, she opened her mouth. Bubbles of wine enveloped him, tantalized him, as she hummed over the sensitized tip. His breath hitched, and he closed his eyes when she cupped his balls and squeezed. Her technique flawless. The pressure perfect, even as her fingernails dug a little into his responsive sack.

“Don’t stop.” He opened his eyes and reached for her, threading his fingers through her hair, holding her for fear she might change her mind, but concerned his self-control may falter.  He’d dreamt of this moment, the pleasure, the release. But in his fantasies, he always came inside her body, sharing the moment, giving as much as taking.

“Wait!”

When he tugged at her hair, easing her head back, her eyes widened in surprise.

“But I thought you wanted—”

 “I want you, min dyrebare.”

She sat back on her haunches, her hands on her perfectly rounded hips, her plump red lips pursed. Her disappointed expression almost brought him undone, and, when her pupils dilated as he stood and began to unbutton his shirt, he had his answer. She wanted him, too.

“Fuck this.” With one almighty tug, he tore off the shirt, sending buttons flying.

He leaned down to assist her up, and, as she rose, she reached out to touch him. Her palms traced his chest and over his obliques. His abdominal muscles tightened as her fingers gripped the waistband of his trousers together with his boxers, and tugged both down his knees. Before she went any further, he gripped her shoulders.

“Allow me.” He stepped out of his remaining clothes and kicked them across the room. Had her lips brushed his cock again, he would have exploded. Somehow, he suspected she already knew that. He had to take back control. Prolong the experience.

“I believe we’ve reached a stalemate.”

“A what?” she tilted her head to one side and gazed up at him from under a fringe of long, dark lashes. Damn, she’s good at her job. He tried to ignore the coquettish fluttering of her eyelashes, and the plumpness of her full, red lips, but lowering his gaze made his situation worse. Every breath she took, drew his attention to her breasts. Her very large, very plump breasts. Control yourself, man. He closed his eyes and tried not to think of the weight of them in his palms, the taste of her nipples on his tongue.

“Despite the fact that you’re secreting enough pheromones to call a man from a mile away, I’ve yet to hear the words I need to proceed.”

“What makes you think I’ll ask you?”

He moved closer until he could almost rest his chin on her head, but he kept his arms by his side. As her breasts brushed his abdomen, his cock pulsated against her belly and she gasped in response.

“You’re touching me,” she whimpered, her voice breathless with desire.

“I have no control over my cock. It seeks to find comfort in you. It answers your body’s call.”

“My body’s call?” Her body leaned into his. She rested her forehead against his chest and breathed her question against his skin. “What do you think my body is telling you?”

“The heat of your breasts scorch my skin, and peak at the thought of my lips tasting the sweet honey of your nipples while I fondle your beautiful, sensual breasts. Even as I speak, your pussy throbs as blood rushes to your clit, spreading damp heat between your legs. Tell me you want my hands to explore every inch of your body. My fingers to touch you, stroke you until you come in my hand. My tongue to taste you, my body to worship you, my—”

“No more talk.” She pushed away from his chest to look into his eyes. “I want you, Chris. I want all those things you said.”

“Thank the gods!”

He cupped her head, their lips melting together in a frenzied kiss as he lifted her. With her legs wrapped around his waist and his cock drenched in her arousal, he carried her to his bed. He would honor all his promises, make her come in ways she’d never believed possible, but for now…

****

No sooner had her back touched the smooth sheets of his bed, his hands were on her breasts. His tongue lapped at each breast in turn, until he chose one peak and drew it into his mouth, brushing her with his extended canine teeth. She arched her back as his fangs grazed the skin on her nipple and his tongue flicked out to lap up the droplets of blood. The sensible part of her warned herself to run. After all, he was a vampire. If he lost control, he may kill her, but dying in his arms would be worth it. He’d promised exquisite pleasure. Was this exquisite pain? If so, she liked it.

“More.”

 He took both her breasts in his hands, pushing them together, lapping and sucking on each nipple, taking a droplet of blood with each nip. As his mouth travelled down to her navel and kept going, she gasped. Her pelvis tilted in anticipation and her legs parted to give him full access.

“Yes. Sink your teeth into me.”

Cupping her buttocks with his palms, he lifted her bottom off the bed while he stared up at her face. His smile reminded her of the big, bad wolf from fairytales about to devour his prey, eat her all up. When his tongue flicked out to dampen his upper lip, she almost orgasmed and when he sunk his fangs into her clit, she screamed. “Oh. Fuck. Yes. Yes. Oh, yes.”

Her knees held him firm, her hands gripped his hair close to his scalp and she thrust her hips hard against his mouth as she shuddered, again and again. Every cell in her body sang his praises. Every inch of her skin cried out for attention. Barely had his mouth broken contact with her pussy and she craved more. He seemed to anticipate her every need. His cock bobbed against her leg as he crawled along her body, kissing her abdomen, lapping the sweat in her navel and under her breasts. As he bit down on her left breast, she reached down and grabbed his shaft.

“Now. Fuck me, now.”

He didn’t hesitate, thrusting inside her. Filling her. Stretching her. She dug her nails into his buttocks, forcing him deeper inside her as she wrapped her legs around his waist to give him deeper penetration. As she arched her back, he suckled her breasts, squeezing them together as he groaned his approval.

“I knew they’d feel perfect in my hands.”

She opened her eyes. “You think about me?”

“I think of nothing else.” He sighed as his pelvis slammed into her with ever increasing speed. His hooded eyes closed and he groaned, his shuddering shaft vibrating inside her, sending another wave of pleasure through her body. She dug her fingernails into the flesh of his back and rode the wave, whimpering at its climax.

They lay together, her hands stroking his damp back. His body between her legs. Their hearts beating as one.

****

Evangeline checked the time on the bedside clock. 9:00 AM. Christoff would remain asleep for hours. She, on the other hand, was wide awake, and although the idea of lying beside his perfect body was appealing, she had work to do. Thank Christ she’d left her cell phone at home when they’d gone to the restaurant. Her mother would worry if she’d missed the weekly call. Before slinking out of bed, she leaned down and stroked the stray hair from his forehead before gently kissing his lips. He stirred, deepening the kiss as he pulled her down.

“Where are you going, min dyrebare? Come back to bed.”

“I have to call my mother.” She reluctantly pushed herself up and off the bed. “Besides, I thought you’d be in a hurry to get your treasure.”

“I’ve already found my treasure.” His smile made her weak at the knees until he sat up and raised an eyebrow. “Wait, you said mother?”

Trying hard not to start another fight, she grit her teeth and scowled. “Yes, I have a mother. I wasn’t raised by wolves you know.”

“Where is your mother? Does she travel with you?”

“She’s not well.” Should she trust him with the truth. “Actually, she’s in hospice.”

He reached out and took her hand, kissing it. “Her condition is terminal?”

Her head nodded of its own accord. Strange how that word made it all seem more real. Terminal. Dying. She sucked in a deep breath. Not if I can help it.

“Listen, Chris. I really need to talk to her, it’s important.” She slipped the dress over her head and checked under the bed.

“Looking for something?”

As she raised her head, he twirled the panties around on his index finger. “You can have this back, if you explain the urgency of your call.”

Hands on hips, she challenged him. “Do you really think I’d be concerned about walking ten feet to my van, knickerless? Anyone living on the estate would be in their coffins.”

He sat up, a bemused expression on his face. “Why do you humans insist on believing that vampires sleep in coffins. I have a perfectly nice, although half-empty, bed.” He lifted back the sheet covering his erection and patted the mattress beside him. “Come, tell me why you are avoiding the subject of your mother.”

Despite her almost instant arousal at the sight of his naked body, his last words dampened any flames of desire. How could she think of her own pleasure while her mother clung to life? She’d been careless with the medallion and almost lost any hope of saving the only person who mattered. Christoff had provided another opportunity to redeem herself and the price was worth every cent. Biting her bottom lip, she made a decision.

“I can’t believe I’m going to tell you this.” She lowered her chin, shook her head and continued. “I need money. Lots of it.” Sliding onto the bed beside him, she gazed into his eyes, looking for compassion and finding it. “My mother has a rare blood disease. The doctors she’s seen have no idea how to cure it.” Biting back tears, she touched her fingers to her lips before continuing. “I’ve been trying to raise enough money to get a specialist, someone from Europe or wherever the hell blood specialists live.”

When he silently stroked her hand, she broke down.

“No matter what you think of me, I’m not a bad person. I may scam the rich, but I don’t sell my body. The deal I made with you was out of desperation.”

His expression changed. “Desperation? I don’t understand. Why me? Why now?”

“Because.” With a deep breath, she confessed something she could no longer deny, even to herself. “I wanted to do what you asked. I wanted you.” She shook her head. “I know it’s selfish, but I needed one night of pleasure. One moment’s peace from the pain of knowing what’s to come.”

“Your mother?”

“She isn’t expected to survive the month.”

Evangeline shuddered as the words left her lips. Somehow, saying the words out loud made it seem more real. She wouldn’t make enough money to save her mother. Time was up.

He crept up behind her, wrapping his arms around her, holding her, as he whispered into her ear. “Then your mother shall have the best doctors and medical attention money can buy.”

When Evangeline turned around and opened her mouth to speak, he silenced her with a finger to her lips.

“Consider this a gift. There will be no more talk of selling your body. It cheapens our love.”

Love? Suddenly the strength left her legs and she wobbled in his arms. “What did you say?”

“I told you the money would be a gift.”

“No, the other thing.”

One side of his mouth curled. “I said I wanted no more talk of selling yourself.”

She pushed him away with a shove to his naked chest and raised her left eyebrow when she realized. “You bastard. You’re teasing me.”

“Perhaps, perhaps not.” Despite his taunt, he chuckled.

“You love me?”

“From the moment I saw you.”

“But I thought you wanted to punish me for robbing those people?”

“Ah, so you admit to your deceptions.”

“You mean this.” She drew her right arm across her body and with a sideways flick of her hand, threw him onto the bed. His shocked expression brought a smile to her face. “If you want to play games, I’m happy to oblige.”

As she knelt on the end of his bed and crawled towards him, she used her telekinetic powers to hold him down, motionless except for the throbbing of his cock.

“Are you going to punish me?” His words cracked, sounding more like a request than a question. She had him right where she wanted him. Her smile widened as she straddled his hips, lifting her dress to remind him her underwear lay somewhere on the floor. He groaned as she pressed forward, pinning his cock against his abdomen as she rubbed her clit the length of his impressive erection.

“Would you like me to punish you?”

His eyes widened, and his mouth curled in a grin as wide as his face as he nodded.

However, she wasn’t finished with him yet.

“I’ve told you my story.” She leaned closer, her hair brushing his neck, her breath on his chest. “Tell me how you became a vampire.”

His sharp intake of breath surprised her. She leaned back to study his face. Why was he so reluctant to tell her? So far, he’d been brutally honest with every answer, every question. Why was this time so different?

“My story may not be to your liking.” He averted her gaze, looking down to the side. “I am not proud of the things I did leading to my demise. I doubt you would think of me the same way once you hear the truth.”

She sat back on the bed, her bottom still between his legs and crossed her arms. “When we first met, you accused me of being a whore, but you still wanted me. Let me be the judge. I’m pretty open-minded.”

“Very well.”

****

Christoff sucked in a deep breath and closed his eyes. Would she run from him after hearing his confession? Would the truth set him free or bind him in the chains of loneliness forever?

 “At the age of thirty, I found myself left behind in a Danish seaside village after my shipmates had sailed without me. We had attacked the village, expecting an easy victory, but we were wrong. The townspeople fought bravely and drove us back to the ship. I fell and broke my leg and was left behind.”

“No honor amongst pirates?”

“I guess that was what we were, however, the common name for my people was Vikings.”

“No shit? Vikings?”

“Shall I continue?”

“A fire had broken out, much like the one from the restaurant. I would prefer to think that they couldn’t find me. Being intentionally left sounds much worse. Regardless of the reason, I found myself at the mercy of the villagers. One young lass, the chief’s daughter, took a fancy to me. With all the younger men married, she had been expected to marry a much older man, so she convinced her father that I was a better option.”

Lines crinkled Evangeline’s forehead. “How old was she?”

“Fifteen.” He stopped her next words with an extended palm. “I realize the age difference between us is abhorrent in this century, but it was common practice back then. Besides, the other candidates for husband were in their fifties and I was given a choice. The chapel or the gallows.”

“So, you married her?”

He nodded, ashamed that his words stole the sparkle from her eyes.

“Did you love her?”

“I loved her, but I was not in love with her. I became fond of her. She tried to be the perfect wife in every way, but in the bed chamber, she acted like the child she was. At no stage of our marriage did she ever disrobe in front of me and she always wore a long, flannel nightgown to bed to cover her body while making love.”

“That must have sucked for you.”

“It wasn’t ideal, especially after experiencing the pleasures of the flesh at many ports—”

“I think you can skip that part.”

Her expression warned him to do just that.

“How did you become a vampire?”

“After your reaction to my last confession, I think, perhaps, I shouldn’t go into details.”

Her nose crinkled, and her huge eyes narrowed with her frown.

“Fine. During my first winter in the village, a woman arrived by sea in a small vessel. She soon fell afoul of the gossip, especially as she was unescorted and preferred to sleep the days away on board her boat. At first, I pitied her as I, too, was not the most welcome of newcomers, but,” he eased back up the bedhead, trying to subtly remove his genitals from within her reach, “she was the most sensual being I had ever laid eyes on. Her face and body as smooth as marble. Her—”

“I get the picture.” Evangeline cleared her voice. “She seduced you and you left town with her.”

“Yes, she seduced me.” He stared into her eyes. Would she understand why he did what he did? Why he became the man who even other vampires feared? “I did not leave willingly.”

“I’m sure every cheating asshole tells the same sob story.” She slipped her legs over his and onto the floor. Before she had a chance to rise from the bed, he reached out and snagged her wrist.

“Somebody betrayed you?”

“Not just me.” She kept her back to him as she added, “my worthless piece of shit of a father left us when I was a young girl. Since then, I seem to attract men just like him.”

“I will never hurt you, min dyrebare. Nor will I leave you.”

She spun around to face him. “How can I trust you? You cheated on your wife and left her. How do I know you won’t do that to me?”

He swung his legs over the side of the bed and rose to hold her. A man could get lost in those doe eyes. “I had no choice but to leave. The sex was more than intense, it became violent.” She tried to pull away from him, but he forced her to listen. He needed her to understand.

“She tore at my clothes, bruised my body, bit into my skin. I felt the sting as her fangs punctured my flesh and tried to push her away. Before I had time to comprehend what she was, I felt my body dying. When she slashed her wrist with her teeth and dripped her own blood into my mouth, I had no strength to fight her. I awoke onboard her boat, craving human blood.”

Evangeline’s eyes widened. “Tell me you didn’t kill your wife.”

He shook his head. “The woman tried to coerce me into it, but I refused. Once again, I was forced to make a choice. Kill my wife or leave the village forever. We set sail the same day.”

“How long did you stay with the vampire?”

“We parted company at the first port. She wanted a partner in crime. I wanted to make my death permanent. Neither of us would accept a compromise.”

She slipped her arms around him, her head resting on his chest, her body tantalizingly warm. “I’m glad you didn’t off yourself.”

“Off myself? Oh, you mean kill myself? Yes, I’m glad, too. Especially now.”

“What happened to make you change your mind?” Her heart fluttered against his rib cage. Was she concerned he may have found another woman?

“I found a reason for living. While I detested the idea of killing innocents, punishing evil doers soon became a source of nourishment, plus a calling for me. Humans came to think of me as Karma. Retribution for their sins. Neither are vampires immune to my swift justice. I am known to them as the enforcer as I am called upon to destroy those who still kill humans.”

“Don’t all vampires eat humans?” she breathed against his chest sending a wave of heat through his body.

“This type of behavior is no longer acceptable. Blood banks supply our nourishment. Some humans allow vampires to take small amounts of blood during intercourse.”

She lifted her head, pushing slightly away to look up into his eyes.

“Intercourse? Wow, Chris. Could you be any more proper?”

Was that a question or an insult? “What would you have me say?”

She waved off his question. “Never mind. I want to know more about this woman. Did you ever see her again?”

****

Christoff nodded his head. “After me, she went on to create many other vampires, both male and female. Some—like David, the man who this property belongs to—she left without proper instruction as to how to remain undetected. Her carelessness gained her notoriety and the council of vampires sent me to hunt and kill her.”

“I don’t understand,” Evangeline sat back down onto the edge of the bed, “I’ve watched enough vampire movies to know that, if you kill the sire, all the fledglings die. Why aren’t you and this David, dead?”

“Myths.” He told her, his naked body close, his burgeoning arousal inches from her face.

She turned her head. “For fuck’s sake. Will you put some pants on?”

His eyes twinkled with mischief. “Are you sure that’s what you want?”

“Very sure.” How could she concentrate on the story while her hands itched to touch him?

With a shrug, he turned his back and walked casually towards the dresser. She suspected that the sway of his tight behind was a deliberate attempt to seduce her. She closed her eyes and tried to think of other things. Unfortunately, the first thought that came to mind was his job. He said that he’d been tracking her for weeks. Was she to suffer the same fate as the female vampire? Was it his intention to punish her? By the time he’d dressed, her heart was beating a mile a minute and she could barely catch her breath.

“Listen, Chris. Whatever you plan on doing to me, please don’t punish my mother for my mistakes. She thinks I sell cosmetics door to door to help with the hospice bills. There isn’t a bad bone in her body.”

“Calm down.” He held her shoulders as he stared into her eyes. His expression puzzled her. Why did he look so concerned? “I have no intention of hurting you or your mother.”

Her heart wanted to believe him. Needed to believe him. Experience reminded her that you don’t always get what you want.

“But you tracked me, and you keep me captive on this property. What do you plan on doing with me?”

“I can think of many things,” his fingers lightly stroked the bare skin on her arms, “and none include hurting you.”

“Stop that.” She brushed his hands away, afraid that he’d stop her from asking the inevitable question. “Did the vampire council send you to kill me?”

He frowned his surprise. “No. Why would they? The council does not concern itself with human behavior.”

“But—”

“Dark forces drew me to this town. Your telekinesis directed me to you. I’ve dealt with an energy such as yours before. At first, I was curious as to how you deceived the homeowners and after watching you, I became aware of a force greater than your own. Someone or something is trying to connect with you. It was no accident finding the medallion. It called to you.”

She let out the breath she’d unknowingly held. “Dark forces? Am I that dark force?”

“I will not lie to you,” he took her hands in his. Bile rose in her throat. This can’t be good. “I do sense evil inside you. Not in your deeds or thoughts, but in your DNA.”

“How could you possibly know what’s in my DNA?”

He lowered his chin, looked up at her from under his lashes and licked his lips.

For a moment, she wondered what he meant, then, the penny dropped. A flood of blood rushed to her crotch as she remembered the intense pleasure when he sank his fangs into her arousal. She bit her bottom lip as her cheeks flushed with heat.

“Never mind.” So, somewhere in her gene pool, was an evil doer. But who? Was it her fate to become a serial killer or something equally evil? Could she do anything to prevent it? A thought crossed her mind. Maybe the thief had done her a favor after all. “The medallion is gone. That means it won’t affect me, right?”

“I am concerned.” He scratched the back of his head and looked down at the floor. “You said that you opened the locket. Normally, talismans are sealed by magic. If it was easy for you to open—”

 “You had me worried for a minute.” She sighed with relief. “It wasn’t easy to open. There was no catch. I had to pry it open with a knife.” She held out her hand. “Look. The damned point went through my palm. I bled like a pig.”

He closed his eyes, shaking his head as he asked, “Did you bleed onto the locket?”

“Aha. I bled everywhere. When I dropped it to grab paper towels, the locket broke open and a little piece of metal fell out.”

His grip on her arms tightened. “You must give me the scroll. Do not open it under any circumstances, do you hear me? Bring it to me, now.”

“All right, already.” She rose to her feet and shot him her best resting bitch face look before heading towards the door. Geez, talk about being melodramatic. She’d been on her way to collect it earlier. It was his fault she didn’t bring it to him already. Maybe I should take my time getting back? She turned her head to look back. If he’d been a cartoon character, there’d be steam coming out of his ears. On second thought, maybe I should hurry.

****

When she reached the van, she closed her eyes. Please let this be a bad dream. Please wake up. But when she opened them, the door to her caravan still hung off its hinges.

“No.” She screamed aloud as she leapt the steps into her home. Drawers lay broken on the ground, the contents spilled everywhere. Cabinet doors didn’t fare any better than the front door, all torn from their hinges. Who would do this? The curtain dividing her bedroom from the living area had been pulled away from the rod, giving her clear view into her wardrobe where the safe door lay open.

Her breath caught when she gazed into the empty safe. She fell to the floor, sobbing until the smell of burning flesh forced her to raise her head.

“The scroll?”

She watched in horror and then surprise as Christoff’s blistered skin healed before her eyes as he sheltered in the darkest corner of her room. His face and hands turned from red to a deep pink.

“Gone.” She grabbed fistfuls of her hair and tugged. Please wake up. It didn’t work. “Everything’s gone. The scroll, the money for Mom, my phone. Everything.”

“We can’t stay here.”

His statement puzzled her. “Why not? Do you think they’re still here?” She scanned the room. “Will they come back?”

He gnashed his teeth. “All of those things are possible, but my concern is that I won’t be in a position to protect you if I combust.” He reached for the quilt and snatched it off her bed. “May I borrow this?”

Before she had a chance to agree, he’d thrown the covering over his head and cocooned himself inside.

“Come on,” she snagged his arm and dragged him to the entrance of the van, “you look like a taco and smell like Southern fried chicken. Suddenly I’m hungry.”

When they entered his darkened cottage, he threw off the covering. “Seriously, you have an appetite after seeing your home ransacked?”

“I’m a stress eater.” She told him as she flopped down onto his couch. “Things like having my life savings stolen and my stuff destroyed have that effect on me.”

The tension in the room was palpable. What would he do to her? Would he blame her for the theft of the scroll? As her stomach twisted in knots, he paced the kitchen, pulling at his hair and muttering to himself before suddenly turning his attention back to her.

“I think it’s best you live with me. At least until your van is repaired.”

Well, that was unexpected. “Thanks.” What choice did she have? All her savings were in that safe and, along with that, her only hope of making enough money to help her mother.

He dropped to one knee in front of her and took both her hands in his. “Don’t worry about the money. Your mother will receive all the help she needs. I personally guarantee it.”

Something akin to joy set her heart to flutter. “Really? Do you mean it?”

He placed his hand to his heart. “My word is my bond.”

As she threw herself into his arms, he toppled backwards, taking her down with him while she rained kisses on his cheeks. “I’m going to thank you so hard you’ll be begging me for mercy.”

A grin curled his mouth at the corners, but he held her at arms’ length. “I very much look forward to that, but first, I need to make a few calls.”

“Huh.” She sat back, positioning herself over his crotch as she crossed her arms and pouted. “What’s more important than my gratitude?”

He pulled her down for a kiss that left her weak at the knees and desperate for more. When he eased her off his lap and rose, lifting her with him, his words made her love him even more.

“I have contacts in Europe. The type of specialists you mentioned might be able to help your mother. I want to call them and start the ball rolling.”