Marcus faced the warrior on the screen. “I was given this information from Zarek.” The room grew so quiet you could hear a mouse pissing on cotton. He knew their thoughts mirrored his own. Some serious shit was coming down if a god handed out this kind of information.
“Fuck.” Garin tossed the pen he’d been twirling between his fingers.
“There’s more.” Aidyn looked at Marcus who nodded in approval. “I believe the gods are trying to help us in a rather unorthodox way.” Aidyn paused. “They have given Marcus a mate, and she’s human.”
“Interesting.”
Everyone turned to look at Seth who was usually so quiet. He cocked a brow. “Will she become one of us?”
“I’ve acquired the knowledge. I’m just not sure I’m ready for a mate,” he lied. Of course, there was no doubt he would claim her. Her essence was already ingrained into his very soul. She was part of the air he breathed. He only hoped he didn’t fail her.
“Are you fucking nuts? I’ll take her if you decide you don’t want her,” a voice from the screen said.
Clenching his fists, he growled and was disappointed the guardian wasn’t in the room as he would have enjoyed tearing the bastard’s head off.
Aidyn looked back at the wall of monitors. “Report anything unusual. In the meantime, I expect Odage’s head on my desk. You all know what needs to be done.” He turned away. “Lucan, I have a special assignment for you. Wait for me upstairs while I speak with Marcus.”
“As you wish, my lord.”
Once Lucan and the others were gone, Aidyn cast his gaze on Marcus. “Well?”
“Against my better judgment, I am taking her on a date tonight.”
Aidyn snorted. “You fret like an old woman. Many among us would gladly switch places with you.”
His gaze narrowed. “So I’ve heard.”
Cassie stood in front of the full-length mirror and twisted from side to side. She had emptied her closet and found nada, then shopped with Jill. Finally, they settled on a simple black halter dress, liking how the material clung to her shape. She slipped on a pair of strappy, high-heeled, black sandals and gold hoop earrings. I’m as ready as I will ever be.
A low rumble caught her attention, and she ran to the window, letting out a gasp. In the driveway sat a Shelby GT 500. Candy-apple red with silver metal flake that shimmered in the sun. She swore her heart skipped a few beats when Marcus exited the car. As she opened the door, an ocean breeze wafted past. God, she loved his scent. His hair was tied back, giving a better view of a strong jaw covered in dark scruff. The blue shirt only made his gray eyes snap like a summer storm. Everything about him spoke of dangerous bad boy. So, why did she want him so bad?
“These are for you.” He handed her a bouquet of roses. They were the purest white she had ever seen, with dark red edges, reminding her of crushed velvet.
“I’ve never seen anything like them. They are beautiful, thank you.”
Marcus grasped her hand, placing a kiss on her knuckles. “Not as beautiful as you.”
Her cheeks grew hot. “Thank you.” She couldn’t remember the last time she felt so special. In many ways, he reminded her of an old-world gentleman, yet a dark, dangerous air surrounded him. Like he hid something. “Let me put these in some water then we can go.”
“Take your time, love.” He followed her to the kitchen.
“So, nice car you have. What year?” Men loved their cars, and it seemed like a good topic of discussion at the moment.
“You like? Sixty-seven. She is one of many cars I own.”
“It’s beautiful. How many cars do you own?”
He laughed. “I am into cars like women are into shoes, addicted.”
She laughed. His sense of humor put her at ease. Cassie looked forward to getting to know him better. She just hoped he didn’t turn out to be a loser. Carrying the vase full of roses from the kitchen, she placed them on the coffee table. The aroma filled the air with sweet perfume. “Where did you find these?”
“I’m afraid that’s a secret.”
“I understand, some kind of new hybrid?”
He flashed his white teeth. “Something like that.”
“Okay, I’m ready if you are.”
The drive to the restaurant proved quiet and uneventful. Marcus had chosen a seafood place on the edge of town, and with traffic being light, it had only taken twenty minutes to get there. He slipped the car into a spot close to the entrance then switched off the engine. Moving to the passenger’s side, he opened the door so Cassie could exit.
“Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” He placed his hand at the small of her back, noting the sensation that sizzled through his fingers. He also couldn’t help appreciate how she filled out her dress. The black fabric clung to her breasts, and the cool air caused her nipples to pebble. He licked his lips, aching to taste her and it didn’t help that the long column of her neck was exposed since she’d piled her hair up. It was all he could do to keep his aching fangs from making an unwelcome appearance. If he managed to get through this night without fucking up, it would truly be one of Zarek’s miracles.
When they walked through the door, they were greeted by a friendly smile. “Mr. Dagotto, we have your usual table ready. Right this way.”
They followed the host to the back of the restaurant and Marcus noted every head that turned to watch Cassie walk past. He glared and let his power whip out at one in particular who stared at her well-rounded ass. The man had a look of surprise on his face after Marcus slapped him with a mild energy pulse. Another rule broken, well, sort of. Never do intentional harm to a human unless they intend harm to others.
Gray area. Besides, the man’s wife is sitting right there. His behavior harmed her. Not that his excuse would hold up before Aidyn or Zarek, but he didn’t give a rat's ass.
When they reached the table, Marcus slid out a chair for Cassie then took the seat across from her.
“What a view. The sunset is spectacular.”
He smiled when he detected a twinkle in her green eyes. He’d hoped she would like this spot. It was his favorite, an intimate table in the corner with a view of the water. The sky was swathed in pastels as if the gods themselves had splashed paint across its canvas. He couldn’t remember ever seeing a more beautiful sight, other than the woman who sat across from him. He sent up a mental thank you and apology to Zarek.
“Champagne?” He pulled a bottle from the bucket sitting on his left.
“Yes, please.”
He poured two glasses, handed her one and raised his own. “A toast. May the guardians watch over those you love.” Their glasses clinked.
“That was beautiful. I take it you believe in guardian angels?” she asked.
He unfolded his napkin and placed it in his lap. “I have it on good authority that they do exist.” He looked around the room then leaned forward. “Who knows, there could be one here now.” He gave her a wink.
She laughed. “I like the way you think, it’s refreshing.”
He decided the sound of her laughter, the way her eyes shone and her cheeks turned a rosy pink was exactly what his heart needed. What he’d been missing for so many years. A layer of ice melted in his soul to be replaced by her fire.
“That was one of the best dinners I’ve had in...well, forever,” Cassie laughed.
“I’m glad you enjoyed it. Now for some dancing.”
She couldn’t remember the last time she’d had so much fun, and the evening was still young. They’d decided after a dinner of lobster to head over to Roxie’s for a few drinks. Cassie glanced over at Marcus as he maneuvered through traffic and wondered when the other shoe would drop. She’d never met anyone so handsome, or considerate, or who made her laugh as much as he did. It almost seemed too perfect. Had her guardian finally thought she deserved happiness? Her mind raced back to John. It had been five years since her wedding day, the day her heart had been left in tatters. Five years since a man had touched her or entere
d her body. She shivered.
“Are you cold?”
“No.” Anything but cold, she was burning alive and blamed the man in the driver’s seat and could hardly believe she was considering sleeping with him.
He managed to find a parking space close by so they didn’t have far to walk. When she stepped out of the car, he offered his arm. When she wrapped her fingers around his bicep, she swallowed a groan. The muscle like concrete, hard and unforgiving. When he flashed her a wicked grin, her panties burst into flames.
Entering the club, they made their way to the bar and found a couple of empty stools. Memories flooded her mind as she remembered the night they'd first met. Never once did she anticipate coming back here with him.
“What would you like to drink?”
“Beer would be great, thanks,” Cassie said.
Marcus waved the bartender over and ordered two beers.
“So, I had to talk about myself at dinner, now it’s your turn. Do you have any family?”
“Like you, my parents are dead. There is only my younger sister Gwen and myself,” Marcus replied.
“I’m sorry to hear that. It’s hard losing your parents. Are you and your sister close?”
“Yes, we are.”
The band started the next song, one of her favorites. Al Green’s ‘Let’s Stay Together’. She looked up to see Marcus standing next to her, holding out his hand.
“Would you care to dance?”
“I’d love to.” Could this evening get any better? She slipped her hand into his as they walked to the dance floor and he slid his hand to her waist, pulling her close. She gasped when their bodies made contact and swore electricity shot between them. There was something about this man who eased her worries and made her feel like nothing could harm her. She looked into his eyes, where a darkness lurked in their depths. What was it? I’m probably going to find out he has a wife.
No wife, my love, only you.
“Did you say something?” She looked up into his eyes, totally startled.
“No.”
“Must have been the music.” Or, she really was losing her ever-loving mind.
Chapter Nine
Odage moved from the bed where he left the female asleep. He had business to discuss with Sidara, so quietly slipped on jeans and a shirt then left the room. On his way out, he beckoned one of his minions. “Make sure the female is gone before I get back. I don’t care what you do with her.” She was not worthy enough to carry his spawn, so he would not be taking her back to Romania. No doubt his minions would have fun with her before they killed her. Should he walk or flash directly to the mansion where Sidara resided? Since he certainly wasn’t in the mood to deal with the drunken crowds of Bourbon Street, he flashed.
The grounds moaned with black magic when he stepped across them. No one––immortal or, human––dared come close to the old mansion. The town’s people believed the house haunted and they were partially correct. He walked to the front door, not bothering to knock before slipping inside. The old house was still lit by candles and kerosene lanterns, lending to its mysterious effect. Heavy tapestries covered the walls, and thick Persian carpets adorned the floors.
“Sidara?”
The voodoo priestess stepped through a doorway at the top of the ornate staircase. “Odage, to what do I owe the pleasure of your company?” she asked, gliding down the stairs. When she reached the bottom, she held out her hand. Odage grasped it and placed a kiss on her knuckles.
“You are lovely as ever, my dear.” Her raven tresses hung in thick curls to her waist, and her cocoa skin was enhanced by the red dress she wore.
A wicked laugh passed her ruby lips. “And you are still the smooth talker, I see.” She sashayed toward the sitting room. “Come, have a drink with me,” she commanded while pouring brandy into a snifter.
He followed in a blinding heat. “I would love a drink.”
Sidara poured another snifter and handed him the glass. “Now, what can I do for the handsome dragon? Hmm?” She traced a red nail down the plunging neckline of her gown.
Odage licked his lips, the thought of tasting her fruit made his head spin. Business first, then pleasure. “I need a spell, one that will hide my presence from the vampires.”
“Really? Sounds like the dragon is up to some naughty business. I have something that will help you.” She glided to an old, wooden cupboard, spoke softly under her breath then opened the door. Reaching in, she retrieved a black, silk pouch. “Yes, this will do. Follow me.” She strolled back toward the kitchen where she proceeded to empty the bag’s contents into a pot of boiling water. Odage wrinkled his nose when a foul stench filled the air.
“What is that?”
Sidara threw him a wicked smile. “You don’t really want to know what’s in it before you drink it, do you?”
“Drink that?” He was momentarily offended that she expected him to drink something that smelled so vile, but then he quickly remembered he needed Sidara on his side. Piss her off and who knew what she’d do to him. “It will keep me hidden?”
Sidara poured the boiling contents through a sieve then into a mug. “Yes, for twenty-four hours, you will be hidden. You could walk into the king’s home, and he would never track you. This along with your ability to cloak should give you complete invisibility. Now drink.”
He grabbed the offending cup and downed its contents in one gulp. The taste far worse than the aroma had him taking a deep breath to keep from retching. She had been right. He held no desire to know what the drink consisted of.
“How long before it takes effect?”
“Maybe an hour. Is there anything else I can do for you while you’re here?”
Odage considered for a moment. “Yes, now that you mention it. I need to find a particular amulet. Can you locate it for me if I show you the other half?”
Sidara pushed her chin in the air. “I’m afraid you need a memory ghoul for that task. Oroumea might be able to help you, for a price.”
Ah yes, why had he not thought of Oroumea? “Thank you, how much do I owe you?” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a shiny diamond, at least five karats in weight. “This enough?”
Sidara eyed the piece he held, traipsing closer. She reached out and snatched it from his grasp. “I always love doing business with you, Odage.” Then in one swift movement, her lips touched his, her body pressed against him. There would be time to seek Oroumea later, right now he might as well enjoy the woman unzipping his pants.
“Marcus, I had a terrific time tonight. I can’t remember the last time I laughed so much,” she said as they exited the club.
He put his arm around her shoulder and pulled her close. “I’m happy to hear that. I must admit I haven’t had this much fun myself in...a very long time.” He planted a kiss on the top of her head. Spiced honey caressed his senses and went straight to his groin. Christ, I wish I could tell you all about us and the bond we share. Somehow, he had to get her home and then walk away. She wasn’t ready for him. Not yet. Her body grew tense, and she turned her head to look behind them. He flared out his senses but picked up nothing unusual. “What’s wrong, love?”
“I feel like we’re being watched.” She snuggled into his chest. “I’m sure it’s my overactive imagination.”
He squeezed her tighter as if to reassure her safety, then reached for his link to the king. Aidyn!
Yes?
I sense nothing, but Cassie feels like we are being watched.
Then we should trust her instinct. Lucan and I are right behind you. We’ll check it out.
Thank you.
Marcus ushered her down the street and toward the car while remaining alert. Aidyn, I sense two minions, but nothing more.
No, there is someone else. Lucan is going after the minions and I will continue to follow you. I can’t find Odage, but I know he’s here.
Thank you, I feel better knowing you are watching over my mate.
Aidyn’s chuckle reached Marcus. So no
w you refer to her as your mate? The date must be going well. She is a beautiful woman, Marcus. Count yourself a lucky man.
Perhaps you are right.
I’m always right. Garin has joined me. He will follow you, and I will go help Lucan. Hopefully, I will get some answers from the minions before he kills them.
Marcus got Cassie back to her house in record time where he planted her on the couch with a glass of Chardonnay. It was all he could do not to pace the floor, but he knew Aidyn and the others were watching. He’d forced himself to relax and sat next to Cassie with his own glass of wine.
“Thanks again for a great evening.”
“I’m glad you had a good time. Does this mean you’ll go out with me again?”
She grinned. “Absolutely.”
He stood. “I had probably better get going, it’s late, and I’m sure you’re tired.” Yet he hesitated to make a move for the door.
Cassie glanced at the clock, it was one a.m. But the last thing she wanted to do was sleep. Setting her glass down, she moved off the couch. “I’m not tired.” She reached for his hand and her courage. Marcus didn’t appear to want to leave, so she took a gamble. “Kiss me.”
He pulled her close and ran his fingers down her cheek. Leaned closer and brushed his lips against hers. Gently, he nibbled her bottom lip, coaxing her mouth open with his tongue. She moaned, parted her lips, allowing him to take full advantage. He pressed his way deeper into her mouth, held the kiss before he broke away.
Opening her eyes, she let out a sigh. “You’re a good kisser, Marcus.” She leaned into him and pressed her body against his. With her arms around his neck, she pulled him to her, and their lips came together once more. Her tongue did a deliberate slow dance across his, making him moan. Her core turned to lava, the heat almost too much to bear.
He pulled away and took a step back. “Cassie. I could stand here and kiss you all night, but I’d better go before I make an ass of myself and you end up hating me.”
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