She nodded, then he turned, disappearing into the night fog covering the ground like bed linen, leaving the door open for their escape.
McLain turned to face her, irritated to see nothing but cloak. “You will stay with me until we can talk about what happened a moment ago. We will also talk about your connection to Slain. That vampire slayed his own mother. Let us leave this place before he or others return.” He waved her through the door first, following close behind.
The night air, as well as the taste of freedom, rejuvenated his spirits. He would be a hunted man within hours. Every moment of life was a gift, and that gift of time, shared with this mystery woman, became more interesting by the moment, yet as deadly for it became a warmth he longed to explore.
The fog thickened, growing over their heads, becoming hazardous as they wove their way though the maze of tombstones and crypts. An unseen open pit, grave robbers, or a hunting vampire could see their escape delayed...all perils he wished to protect her from. McLain kept them to the trees and thickest fog, grateful for his night vision.
It was too dark for any human to see, but for him, his vampire gaze saw the moonlight streaming like sunbeams between the tree branches, showing every detail, clear and sharp.
The large oaks creeked and groaned as the breeze far above pushed the top limbs to-and-fro overhead. Their twisted roots poked through the ground to trip the unwary. The faint clip-clop of horse’s hooves on cobblestone roads echoed off to their left and a barking dog in front of them caused McLain to lead her to the right along the marsh.
The ground grew soft, sucking at his feet in places. Carmen tripped once and McLain put an arm around her waist, pulling her up tight along his side. Again, energy buzzed between them, but this time he ignored it. They didn’t need a twisted ankle and her satin shoes where not made for hiking in the swampy bog. He could carry her if he didn’t think they would be attacked, but he needed his hands free if the unexpected happened.
The strong smell of wet earth and rotting vegetation filled the air. Several splashes deeper within the marsh eerily spoke of creatures on the move. Glowing eyes peered out of the thick fog and shadowy branches. An owl screeched loudly and a sudden sense of eyes watching their progress touched his thoughts.
After an hour or more of walking around gnarled trees, careful to avoid a hole or slithering creatures, Carmen broke the silence. “Where are you taking me?”
“There is a boardinghouse on the edge of this marsh that takes any boarder, without questions, for a fee. I’m getting a room so you will be safe while I feed. I want us to talk.”
He turned to face her only to growl and turn back to the muddy path. He was going to rip that tattered hood from her head and off that body as soon as he returned from his hunt. He wouldn’t talk to a wall of cloth any longer, no matter how scarred she might be.
A soft glow through the dark forest of trees, and wall of fog, showed like a beacon as they neared a shadowy building. The rough wood exterior had turned gray from all the moisture, causing the rooming house to blend into the surrounding. Water dropped from the slate roof to dig a small trench in the earth where it hit repeatedly. One torch stuck in an iron sconce marked the entrance. The flame hissed and sputtered in the damp night air. Whispered voices came from inside the open doorway as they neared.
McLain leaned close as he spoke. “Stay close to me and do not speak.”
The warmth of his breath stirred her hair through the hood, causing a quiver of pleasure to slide along her neck before she nodded in agreement. His brow pinched together over his dark gaze before turning back to the entrance. He led her through the door and into a fire lit room with many rough wood tables and benches. The smell of smoke and unwashed bodies hung heavy in the small room, mixing with the odor of spiced stew and frying pig fat. Half-melted tallow candles sat in the center of each scarred table. The tallow had run out of its tin cups to harden in puddles over the wooden surface.
Coats and hats hung on iron hooks beside the door. A stone chimney sat above a blazing hearth where fire licked and danced along the bottom of a large black caldron. A bubbling brown stew popped and hissed in the pot with steam roiling above.
A few unsavory men sat eating and drinking near the blackened stone hearth. Most all the patrons looked like cut throats. Their blades reflected the fires light. Their features pinched, wrinkled, and frowning, dirt smeared over cheeks and chin. Only one man was well dressed and seemed out of place as he sat in the corner of the room. His deep-set gaze centered on McLain.
She laid her hand on his back in warning and felt the tightening of his muscles as a current passed between them. Though McLain looked relaxed, he appeared to notice everything. He kept his body between hers and the well-dressed man and did it without seeming to.
Carmen marveled at his smooth command. He smiled at the woman behind the long, wooden counter, using his charm to get one of her best rooms. She handed him a key.
“There be no charge for the night, handsome. ‘Tis honored I am you choose to stay with me. I get off at three. Times can get lonely. If you need company come get me.”
There was a seductive hint in the woman’s offer and Carmen found a tug of anger swirling about in her belly that made her frown. Instantly, she didn’t like the woman.
“I’ll remember that beautiful. Thanks for the room.” The smile that McLain gave the owner didn’t help cool that anger. Carmen felt the urge to slap the back of his head but tightened her fist instead. Whom he courted was his business, but he could do it without her. She made to leave but McLain’s strong hand gripped her arm, holding her in place.
McLain kept himself between her and the others even as they climbed the stairs, turning right at the top and moved down a narrow dark hallway. A candle burned at each end, giving only minimal light. The floorboards creaked under McLain’s feet as they moved along the hall. At the last room, he inserted the key and opened the door. “Step in quickly.” His gaze stayed focused on the hallway until he stepped in after her, closing and locking the door behind them.
“The well-dressed man in the corner was a vampire, was he not?” Carmen turned, watching McLain glance about the room, inspecting everything.
“Yes, but I wouldn’t worry...he didn’t notice you. It was me he was watching.”
Two hunters in the same area couldn’t be good. “Will there be trouble?”
The mischievous smile that was his alone tilted one side of his lips. “I always expect trouble. It’s the way of life. Make yourself comfortable. I must go out, but I won’t be long.”
“Where are you going?”
He stepped close to her, and she took a step back.
His gaze again tried to pierce the material of her hood. “Do not leave here, Carmen. It is not safe outside this room.”
She wondered if he was going to meet that woman downstairs. Would he be holding her in his arms as he sampled blood from her neck or breast? The thought angered her again, yet why she cared made no sense. Carmen wanted to stomp her foot and yell but kept herself controlled. Ladies didn’t show emotion. People would consider them unbalanced and uncivilized. Ladies must conduct themselves demure and graceful in any situation.
“I will stay, because I am tired. Do...as you must.” Her anger rang loudly in her voice, but she couldn’t help that.
“Your obedience is gratifying.” His rich laughter filled her head with warmth. She liked the sound of it.
She smiled, giving tit-for-tat in a smart reply. “I am honored you think so.”
McLain walked to the window, checking to see that it was locked then turned toward the door. “Open this for no one. When I return I will use the key. I will be gone at most thirty minutes.”
She nodded and watched him leave. The click of the lock echoed in the small room, signaling she stood alone in a strange place once more. This time inviting thoughts of a darkly handsome man warmed her until she remembered where he would be going.
Why did McLain have to be so handsome? Th
at long, black hair hanging across thick, broad shoulders, dark eyes that glowed with a heat every woman wanted to share. She may be a virgin, but she knew what happened between men and women. A friend told her all the gruesome details, but this was the first time she found herself interested in kissing and touching a man.
She sighed, knowing it could never happen. Taking a closer glance around the room, she noticed the sparse furniture. One bed, a candle-lit writing table with washbowl and pitcher, and a chair set before the cold grate. Towels lay folded on the table and a stack of wood sat near the cold hearth. The planked floors seemed well swept and the bed coverings made up, so the stay wouldn’t be unpleasant.
Suddenly, Carmen froze. Unease ran along her spine and down each limb. It was as if a dark shade had passed through her soul to steal her warmth. Dread curled her fingers into fists but with effort, she loosened up and stooped down to start a fire. What would come would come.
The premonition of danger grew strong. The inky darkness was slithering down the hallway toward her. Had her brother found her? She reached out with her senses. There was nothing there but a dark hole. What came...was not human.
Nothing changed fate’s plans. If she was to die, she would.
The dry logs caught and snapped, causing her to jump in fright. Her palm flattened over her heart to keep it from leaving her chest. The firelight spilled warmth and light about her just as she heard the latch on her door rattle. She made sure the hood of the cloak concealed her features as she faced the door, waiting. Her heart raced in fear as she backed slowly into one corner of the room.
A black finger of smoke slid under the door, crawling up its wooden panel to the latch. The click of the lock brought panic to tighten her throat closed. The door swung open, revealing the well-dressed vampire. His gaze burned as he searched the room.
“Where is McLain?”
Carmen held perfectly still not willing to give her position away deep in the darkened corner.
“Answer me human, or I will tear out your throat and drain you dry.”
The vampire’s gaze glowed red, evil power emanated from him to crowd the space between them. She felt its taint and knew she was marked by it.
When the vampire slowly stalked her, she answered. “He stepped out and will return within the moment. Please be a gentleman and wait downstairs for his return.”
A wicked leer and a tight jaw revealed to Carmen that the vampire never wanted McLain, but what he held. At this moment, it was she.
As the man moved in on her, the corner, once a refuge, now became a trap.
“Touch me and it will mean your death.”
“I don’t think so,” he sneered. Then with the speed of a striking serpent, he grabbed for her. She struck out, catching him by surprise. He ripped her hood off and she kicked at his shins, her fist hitting his ear. He only shook his head and his eyes grew wider. Her small efforts couldn’t stop his superior strength. A ripping pain sliced into her neck as he bit through her flesh, a scream frozen in her throat as he drank deep. She squeezed her eyes closed as the pain rocked her frame and weakness invaded her limbs.
“McLain!”
* * *
McLain didn’t go far to find what he needed. He stood in the shadows as two men walked their horses into the stables. Using his heightened senses, he made sure no other would be about to interrupt him. On silent feet, he moved into the dimly lit interior to hear the two men talk as they unsaddled their mounts. McLain stepped from the shadows, drawing the men’s gazes, then waved a hand in front of them, giving a command. “Sleep.”
The two men slumped against the walls and slid to the hay-covered floor. Hunger pounded at McLain, his gut twisting in knots. He’d gone too long without nourishment. His strength was somewhat diminished. Even so, he took care not to drink too much or leave any wounds on the men’s neck with a reckless feed. The men were young and healthy and McLain felt his powers returned with each swallow. Vitality sang through his cells and he took a deep cleansing breath prior to stepping back into the shadows before someone walked in and caught him.
McLain planted images of the two companions drinking together in friendly barter so upon waking, they would have a reason for feeling weak and disoriented. He checked each man’s heartbeat. Then he wiped images of himself from their thoughts. He called the men to awaken, staying near yet unseen in the darkest shadow, making sure of their welfare before returning to his room and Carmen.
Now well fed, he was in control once again. His attraction to her had been only a weakness from his lack of food. Carmen was just another human among many that he would use to entertain himself until his life was taken.
However, to be honest, she was different from other women he had known. There existed honor in her heart and she cared for others, having healed another vampire without thought to herself. Carmen had strength and a stubborn streak in her nature. That flaw amused him. No other woman had stood up to him. They all ran screaming. He found Carmen’s actions refreshingly honest. She wasn’t trying to impress him or cower away. Odd, but he felt more relaxed in her presence.
Returning to the boarding house, he quickly scanned the room for the vampire and found him gone. There had been something about the man he didn’t trust. An underlining menace McLain had come up against in the past.
‘Tis a relief to have him gone.
McLain quickly ordered some food to be sent up for Carmen at sunset that evening. He was sure she had not eaten today and would be hungry. Once upstairs in the hallway, he saw the door to his room stood open. Unfamiliar fear twisted in his gut and a roaring filled his head. He leaped down the hall in a single move of speed, pictures of an injured Carmen ripped through his heart.
The scene that greeted him was not what he expected.
The vampire he’d noticed from downstairs earlier now lay tossing and turning on the floor. Foam bubbled from his mouth and nose—he was choking to death. His body convulsed with sharp jerks. A wild gurgling filled the room only to die on a long sigh.
Chapter Three
McLain quickly searched for Carmen and found her huddled form in one corner bright red blood smeared across one shoulder of her concealing cloak.
He closed and locked the door, ignoring the dying vampire and went straight to Carmen.
“What happened? He stooped down beside her and reached for her cloak.
“No, leave me. Please, leave me, I’m fine.” She slapped at his hand.
“You’re not fine.”
McLain ignored her protesting hands and pulled the material from her clutch. He was not going to have this cloth between them again.
She struggled to hold onto her security, but McLain was stronger and determined. He tore the hood from her head then pulled it off her shoulders before gently pushing her hair back and taking a good look at the injury. It was a nasty tear, a cruel and vicious wound. He could only imagine the fear and pain she had endured. Anger began to weave along his nerves until he lifted his gaze to really see her for the first time.
Carmen’s hair was long, well past her hips and raven’s wing black. It fell in waves along her face and across her small shoulders, but it was her eyes that held him spellbound. They were large on a gentle face. Soulful deep brown like a doe. They pulled one in, capturing the heart and mesmerizing the soul. She had a small nose and full, pouty pink lips, yet he was drawn back to her compelling eyes. The light of the fire danced within their large depths, seducing one to come closer. The fear reflected there brought out his need to protect, as well as his want to touch her. He pulled her into the shelter of his arms. His hand splayed along her lower back and felt her warmth seeping through his clothes to scorch his flesh.
Heat pulsed between his legs as he became aroused. His gaze dropped to her barely clad breasts as they rose and fell with each rapid breath above the sky blue serviceable blouse. Her flesh, creamy and soft. A need, strong and heady, beat through his body. Carmen was more beautiful than any woman he’d known, even his once belove
d Catherine, who’d lived two centuries before. That unexpected thought came like a splash of icy water, stirring anger to resurface.
Panic crossed her gaze before Carmen closed her eyes and turned her head away. “Will you now speak sonnets to me and give me your undying love, or pull a blade across my throat so no other will fall under my spell?”
He blinked, narrowing his gaze.
“Hell no,” he growled.
When she looked up sharply, he refused to meet her gaze. Instead, he pushed her head to one side, examining the wound in her neck once again. What the hell was the matter with him? His school days were lost centuries ago. Darkness claimed his soul so what were these emotions? “It has stopped bleeding and seems to have sealed nicely.”
“Have you nothing else to say?”
“Oh, I have plenty to say and most of it would burn your innocent ears.”
“You’re angry?” Her eyes widened, lifting both gently curved brows.
“Bloody right.”
McLain stood, moving over to a washbasin and wet a cloth. As he moved back to her, he kicked the dead vampire in a spurt of anger and it crumbled to a pile of dust. Stooping down next to her again, he wiped away the dried, crusted blood with gentle strokes.
His anger came more from his own reaction to her. The raw possessiveness he held for her wasn’t wanted, and his lack of discipline was appalling. She stared at him with a confused expression on her face. He wanted to kiss her, putting a dreamy glint in those large eyes. Instead, he grumbled.
“You have some explaining to do, and I don’t mean about your scarred face.”
“My face isn’t scarred.”
“Glad we got that straight,” he underscored.
“My beauty angers you?”
Carmen was shocked. Her looks had never inspired that emotion in a man and she wasn’t sure how to handle it or the fact that he was so near. His touch brought quivers of pleasure along her limbs and between her legs. There was a heaviness in her belly and her nipples grew sensitive and irritated by the shift she wore. The warm masculine scent of him stirred an unknown desire. Too many new emotions had turned her control to turmoil.
Satin Chamber Page 2