A Place in this Life. Chapter Eight: A request.
Another apology is in order. This chapter took far too long to get together. So sorry for the wait. The first trimester sleepies got me. I think they are starting to let up a little, so maybe I'll be able to get something done in the next few months. We'll see.
Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter 7
Disclaimer: I do not own any part of the Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter franchise. The world and all its inhabitants belong to Laurell K. Hamilton. I’ve just borrowed her world for my own, and hopefully your, entertainment. I make no money from this work and discourage any attempts to sue me as being fiscally unrewarding.
Warnings: Legal adults only. Graphic sex, violence, adult themes, vampires and lycanthropes. Read at your own risk.
Authors Note: Ever had a character keep pestering you in the back of your skull until there was nothing to do for it, but sit down and write? Damian may be quiet, but he’s bloody persistent. Enjoy.
Chapter Eight: A request.
“Damn.” Anita sighed and reached for her mug of coffee.
“Are you satisfied?”
“Yes and no.” She cradled the cup in her hands, her eyes focused on the doorway through which Erica had passed. “I don’t like the way she simply accepts all this.”
“You don’t understand it.” Damian turned to her, stroking his hands up and down her shoulders. “You think she will simply obey me without question.”
“I think she’s in love with you.”
“Love?” His stroking paused. “You exaggerate, Anita. Infatuated, perhaps.”
“No. I don’t think so.” She frowned. “I was hoping this was just infatuation.”
“You are hoping she will grow tired of me and go away.” Damian’s expression stiffened.
“I’m just worried that she’s making decisions with her heart, not her head. Love is blind.”
“I have found her to be thoughtful and levelheaded.”
“Her submissiveness worries me. I don’t need another victim in my life.”
“Ah.” His stroking resumed. “She is not so submissive as you think, Anita. Only reserved. She does not rage at the world as you do.”
“Is that a criticism, Damian?”
“An observation.”
“Humph. So I’m high maintenance, and she’s not.”
“It does make this all much simpler.”
“OK. I can agree with that.” Anita drained the last sip from her cup and Damian took it from her. He set it aside. “I don’t like this plan, but I haven’t got anything better to offer.”
“Shall I ask her before the dawn comes?”
“No. It’s Asher’s idea. Let him sell it.”
“I am to tell her nothing?” His brows rose. “I have been truthful with her until now.”
“I’m not asking you to lie. Just to wait and let Asher make the pitch himself. I’m afraid if you or I say it, she’ll treat it as an order.”
“Perhaps.” Damian slid his hands around her waist to help her down. “You should rest.”
“And you should go spend some time with the oh-so-patient-Erica.”
“You sound jealous.”
“And you sound too pleased. Go Damian.”
“As you wish.”
~*~
He found the girl curled up on his bed, idly stroking her cat while she read by the light of a single lamp. She looked up at the sound of his footstep and smiled. The expression brought a light to her eyes and a softness to her features. Anita’s words echoed in his mind. Was this love?
It was a strange thought. His maker had never made any pretense of love, nor did Anita now. There had been no one woman to hold such affection for him in that long ago mortal lifetime. And such things were thought of differently then.
“Is something wrong?” He’d been silent too long. Her smile faded into lines of concern. “Are you…mad about Caleb?”
“No. I am not angry.” He shook his head and smiled reassuringly, settling down on the bed beside her. “I simply find myself thinking of things that I have not thought of in centuries. Perhaps never.”
“What things?” She closed her book and set it on the bedside table. The cat was displaced with a nudge of her elbow and the creature slunk off into the shadows without a sound.
“How lovely you are and how fortunate I am to have your affections.” He climbed further onto the bed, resting his back against the headboard and pulling her into the curve of his arm. “Were I more learned, I might recite poetry as Requiem does. Were I mortal - I think I have not regretted my state so much for a very long time.”
“If you were mortal now you wouldn’t be the same person, Damian.”
“I suppose not.” She cuddled closer and he kissed her temple, breathing in the scent of her. Shampoo, make-up, and a trace of the leopards with whom she spent so much of her time. “How are you, my lovely? You have had quite the day.”
“I’m fine, I think.” She closed her eyes and sighed. “I feel better now that you’re here. What did you and Anita talk about?”
“Much of the night was spent in discussing plans and making preparations.” He pondered what he could tell her. Anita’s injunction sat uneasily on him, but he must obey. “You will likely learn more tomorrow evening. There is too much to tell and too little time before the sun rises. I would rather spend this time in other ways.”
He pulled her into his lap for a kiss. She returned it eagerly, her hands moving across his bare skin, feeling hot next to the coolness of his flesh.
“Damian…” She murmured his name, nibbling maddening trails down his neck. He shivered in reaction and she chuckled softly. “I can’t believe I can do that to you.”
“That and more.” He whispered and let his hands slip beneath the soft fabric of her sleep shirt. She moaned as he cupped her breasts, kneading gently. She shifted in his arms, straddling his lap. She settled back down and rocked gently against him, mimicking even more intimate contact. He groaned with a mixture of pleasure and frustration. Erica sighed and pulled back her hair, tossing it over her shoulder, baring her neck to him. He could see the strong beat of her pulse beneath the skin. The scent of the blood so close to the surface was nearly as tempting as the flesh in his hands. He leaned forward and pressed a gentle kiss against that pulsing beat and sighed. “No my lovely. No.”
“But you need to feed. Or did you…” She hesitated to ask. Had he fed from someone else after spending his borrowed vitality to sate his mistress’s arduer? She moved against him again and he groaned, burying his face in the warm cradle of her neck. “Please, Damian. I feel fine. And I want this. I want to feel you feed while we make love.”
“No. No my sweet Erica.” His hands roved over her flesh, coaxing, teasing, and pleading for her forgiveness. “Not tonight. I cannot. Please do not ask me. I can pleasure you in other ways.”
“Why?” She pulled back and took his face in her hands to search his face for the answer. “Why? Did Anita tell you not to?”
“There are things I am not permitted to tell you.” He watched thoughts flicker through those green eyes. Worry, hurt, confusion. “I do not choose to keep secrets from you.”
“Is she jealous?”
“A little, I think. But that is not the reason why I am not to share all I know.” He pulled her close, embracing her tightly. “We cannot be sure what will happen these next few days. Neither I nor my masters wish to risk you unnecessarily.” She was quiet for a handful of heartbeats and he wondered what was passing through her mind.
“All right.” She whispered against his ear. “No feeding tonight.” Her lips nibbled at the lobe of his ear and he tightened his grip. “So what do we do then?”
“Let me show you.” And he did, stripping away her nightclothes, making love to her with hands and mouth. Each sigh and moan, each shiver and cry she made filled his senses with the hum of life. He swallowed up her cries of pleasure and held her as she shuddered in ecstasy, pleased by his own skills. There was something freeing about it. About giving no thought to his own release and concentrating on the woman in his arms.
It was nearly dawn when she lay beside him, flushed and spent and drowsy. “No more, Damian. I’m only human. I can only take so much.” Her chest rose and fell as she breathed deeply, her pulse still beating at him in a siren’s song.
“Yes. Human.” He pulled her head to rest it against his shoulder, not yet ready to flee the coming dawn. “You remind me of what it was like so very long ago.”
“I hope that’s a good thing.” She snuggled closer and he reached out to pull the blankets over her. He did not feel the chill, but she would once the heat of exertion had passed.
“It is.” He stroked her hair back from her face. She smiled sleepily at the caress. “You should sleep while you can.”
“I want to wait until dawn comes.”
“It is nearly here.” He sighed. “Shall I help you to sleep?”
“No. I won’t be awake much longer.” She yawned. ”My sleep’s all mixed up lately.”
“It is the price of associating with such as I, I am afraid.”
“It’s worth it. Don’t worry…” Her eyes closed and her breathing slowed. He listened to the soft sound of her breath for several long moments, not even stirring when Shadow leapt up onto the bed to curl up against her mistress’s hip. He gave the little beast a few friendly strokes and it began to purr. He was stalling, not wanting to leave the warmth of Erica’s body for the close darkness of his coffin.
But at last, there was no more time and he slipped from beneath the sheets to take his place in his coffin. He had barely settled against the cold pillow before dawn came and stole all awareness from him.
~*~
Erica awoke in the darkness of the basement and lay listening to the distant sound of activity above her. Footsteps and voices, too indistinct to put names or faces to. She lay staring into the dimness for what felt like a long time, thinking. Shadow was a warm ball of fluff at the small of her back and the other side of the bed was empty. She sighed.
What was going to happen over the next few nights? Why wasn’t Damian allowed to answer her questions or take her blood? She felt fine. Too many questions and not enough answers.
She rolled over and sat up, picking up the little cat and settling her in her lap. She stroked Shadow as she pondered, using her privacy while she had it. It sounded as if Anita had a full house today. Which probably wouldn’t improve the woman’s attitude any.
Anita’s insistence that she would have to leave when the crisis was over didn’t sit well with her. So much had happened that she hadn’t given any serious thought to where she would go or what she would do. The chances of keeping her job seemed pretty slim and while her share of the rent and utilities were paid for the next few months, living with Candace would be very awkward. If the girl didn’t approve of her seeing a vampire, she’d hardly be any more accepting of a vampire and a wereleopard. That was assuming, of course, that Caleb’s interest continued. That brought on worry about how she was supposed to deal with him in the meantime.
Thoughts like that kept her still sitting on the bed in the dark despite the rumbling in her stomach and the pressure in her bladder. But the thing that really kept her rooted to the spot was the feeling that Anita wanted her out. Not just out of her house - which was reasonable - but out of her life. Out of the weird little family thing she had going, with it’s mix of vampires and lycanthropes. Maybe even out of Damian’s life. He wouldn’t want to do it, but if his mistress really wanted to separate them, he would have to obey.
The sound of the basement door opening pulled her from her reverie. She pulled the sheets up around her as footsteps descended. A few more steps and her visitor came into view.
“Erica? Are you up?” It was Cherry.
“Yeah. I’m up.”
“Why are you sitting in the dark?” Of course the wereleopard could see her in the dim light coming from the open door.
“I haven’t been up long.” She relaxed and leaned over to snap on the bedside light. “What time is it?”
“A little after ten. The doctor is here. She wants to check you out before she leaves.”
“The doctor? Yeah. Just give me a minute to get dressed.”
“I’ll send her down in a couple of minutes.” Cherry vanished back up the stairs and the door closed with a quiet click. Erica could still hear the sounds of people moving back and forth upstairs. Not wanting to be caught with her pants down, or worse yet, in the middle of the floor, she hurried to dress and straighten up. She was in the process of making the bed when the doctor’s voice came from behind her.
“Well, I can say from here that you are looking much better.” Erica turned with a start to regard the woman in her sensible gray pantsuit, her silver hair gleaming in the lamplight. “Don’t bother for me. I hope I haven’t awakened you too early.”
“I was up. I was just being lazy.”
“Hmm.” The doctor stepped further into the room and sat a little black case on an end table. “Come here and let me have a look at you. The Master of the City was quite insistent that you be looked at.”
“He was?” She left the bed half made and perched on the edge of the couch at a gesture from the older woman. “I thought you were here to check on Nathaniel.”
“Oh, I am. I’m Dr. Lillian, by the way.” The woman pulled a stethoscope from her bag and pressed it against Erica’s chest to listen. “Breathe deeply.”
The doctor spent several moments checking her vitals and asking questions. She seemed pleased to find the bite on Erica’s neck almost completely healed.
“Why was the Master of the City so interested in my health?”
“He didn’t say. But he was most interested in whether it was safe for you to donate again.”
“Is it?”
“If you don’t overdo it.” The rest of the doctor’s visit was spent in a lecture on how often was safe to ‘donate’ and how best to care for herself. She was happy to hear that Nathaniel had already shared much of the basics. “Well, I think that covers it. You are a very lucky young woman.”
“I know.”
“I’ll leave these supplements with you. Take them.”
“Yes ma’am.” Erica accepted the handful of bottles.
“Take good care of yourself and you won’t need to see me again.” The older woman nodded her head and smiled. “And don’t judge yourself by lycanthrope standards. They can donate every other night. You can’t. I’ve seen too many humans get into trouble that way.”
“I understand.”
“Good. Jealousy isn’t worth ruining your health over.” With that parting shot, the doctor made her way back up the steps, passing Cherry on her way down.” Everything checks out. No restrictions.”
“Yes, doctor.” Cherry nodded and stepped aside to let the doctor pass, then flashed a grin. “I’ve got more good news.”
“Oh?”
“We’re going shopping on Jean Claude’s dime.” Cherry glided down the remaining steps, pausing until the door closed above. “I think it’s just an excuse to get you out of the way for a few hours. But who cares?”
“Out of the way?” Erica frowned.
“Lycanthrope business. Not everyone is OK with having a norm around.” Cherry shrugged. “Some people are still in the closet. Like the doctor.”
“Oh. I gotcha.” Erica grabbed her purse, and then hesitated. “Do I have time for a shower?”
“Sure. The second floor bathroom should be free.” Cherry smiled. “But stay out of the kitchen. It’s were central at the moment. We’ll grab something to eat before we hit the mall.”
~*~
It was eleven by the time they climbed inside the gunmetal gray van parked along the curb. Its windows were tinted a silvery black and the inside had that too-clean look and smell of a rental vehicle.
‘We’ turned out to be Erica, Cherry, Zane, Caleb and two wererats introduced to her as Claudia and Bobby Lee. According to Caleb, they were honest-to-god gun carrying bodyguards. She had to believe it. Despite his lazy sounding southern drawl and laid back attitude, Bobby Lee’s blue eyes never stopped moving. The older man had short salt and pepper hair and a neatly trimmed beard and mustache. He was probably six feet tall, but seemed shorter next to his partner. The brunette Claudia was easily the tallest, most muscular woman she had ever met. She wasn’t quite sure whether she found their presence reassuring or just plain intimidating.
“Relax, Erica. It’s our job to worry.” The tall woman smiled and gave her a friendly pat on the shoulder. “All you have to remember is to stay within our sight and if we tell you to do something, do it first and ask questions later.”
“I think I can do that.” Erica smiled back and buckled herself in to the center seat. Caleb slid into the spot beside her with a grin. The two wererats took the front seats while Cherry and Zane took the rear-most bench. Bobby Lee started the engine and pulled out slowly.
“So you’re playing bodyguard today too?” Erica asked once they were on their way.
“Nope. I’m your date.” Caleb’s grin grew even wider. A snort from the backseat made her turn to regard Zane with a questioning look.
“Anita thought a mixed group would look less conspicuous. None of us are important enough to be needed at the meeting.”
“Oh.” Erica turned back, giving Caleb a sidelong look.
“Jean Claude and Anita are fairly sure you’re not the primary target. It’s Nathaniel and Damian who are being targeted so far. Probably to get to Anita.” Claudia spoke loud enough to be heard. “We don’t really expect trouble. And if anyone is paying attention, your being seen with someone else will throw some doubt on your importance to Damian.”
“So I volunteered to play your boyfriend.” Caleb reached out and grabbed her hand. “Since I’ve done it before.”
“He did?” Cherry’s voice rose in question and Erica fought not to blush as Caleb explained. His description of her roommate was so comically accurate and uncomplimentary that she didn’t know whether to laugh or defend the woman. Through it all, Caleb refused to give up her hand, making a show of mock affection by kissing her knuckles and giving her exaggerated looks of longing.
He had his fellow wereleopards laughing hard enough to make Cherry’s eyes water and to bring a spark of mischief to Zane’s eyes. She even thought she heard a chuckle or two from the pair up front. Erica herself gave into the giggles and even added a few sighs of her own, fluttering her eyelashes at him.
Too late for breakfast, they pulled into the parking lot of a family restaurant. The wererats made them wait as they climbed out of the van and gave the sparsely occupied lot a good looking over. As far as Erica could tell, the place had been chosen randomly, so it seemed pretty far fetched to her that someone might be laying in wait. But it did sober her a little. Satisfied that there was no obvious threat, Claudia opened her door and waved her out.
“Hope this place is OK. It’s a little early for lunch.” Claudia’s tone was friendly, but her eyes weren’t on Erica. “I’ve been here before. You can see all the exits from the main dining area.”
“I’m sure it’s fine.” Caleb slid out right behind her and slipped his arm around her waist. He pulled her aside so that Zane and Cherry could clamber out. Zane clapped the shorter man on the shoulder in passing. Erica thought Caleb looked startled, but pleased. She wasn’t given much chance to think about it as their guards hustled them inside.
The food was standard fare, nothing special, but the good mood continued to though the meal. Claudia and Bobby Lee ate with them, sitting across from each other so that they could watch the doors. For the most part the two wererats stayed out of the conversation, joining in just enough to look casual, she thought. It was probably wasted effort. Only two families came in, both with children too young to be in school. Hardly assassin material.
“So how long had you been going to the club?” Erica blinked at Cherry’s question.
“About six months, I think. I’m really not sure.” She glanced at Caleb before continuing. “A friend talked me into it. Sort of a dare. I’m sure she never thought I’d go through with volunteering to donate.”
“So it was just the vampires you went to see?” Zane put down his soda.
“Pretty much.” Erica played with her napkin, unsure where to look. Caleb’s eyes were focused on her, his arm along the back of her seat.
“She came to see Damian.” Caleb stroked her hair. “Word got around pretty fast.”
“Damian dances with hundreds of girls.”
“We’ve all got our favorites, Erica.” His tone was suggestive. “Management doesn’t like fights on the property. So no poaching someone else’s regulars.” The last was said close to her ear. Close enough that his breath made her hair shift against her neck.
“Oh.” She shivered slightly and he grinned at her.
“Besides, Damian’s an old one. If he gives a woman something, that means something.” He pulled a familiar length of green and gold fabric from his pocket and ran it through his fingers. “Marking his territory.” He slung it across Erica’s shoulders and she flushed, pulling it off and tucking it in her purse, glad to have it back.
“That’s barbaric.” Cherry snorted.
“It’s true, though.” Zane made a silent toast to Erica. “Better be careful how hard you play boyfriend, Caleb.”
“He is a barbarian. He was a Viking, wasn’t he?” Claudia’s question turned their attention back to the wererat. She shrugged. “I mean the old ones never seem to quite lose their original identity.”
“He’s definitely different from anyone I’ve ever dated before.” Erica tried to hide her blush behind her own glass. “Even taking into consideration that he’s a vampire.”
After that, Claudia took pity on her, steering the conversation toward more general observations about the vampires she had worked for. Even Bobby Lee offered some observations of his own. He had a knack for storytelling, his accent lending a unique flavor to his anecdotes.
Caleb seemed content to simply sit close to her, touching her often, playing the infatuated boyfriend to the hilt. She was mildly surprised when he produced a company credit card to pay for the meal. Apparently Jean Claude didn’t share Micah’s misgivings about allowing the wereleopard to handle money. Caleb preened a little, over-tipping their waitress. You’d almost think it was a real date and he was trying to impress her, she thought.
The two wererats returned to their business-like alertness once they left their seats. And it continued through the drive to the mall and even once they were inside. Erica doubted that anyone would buy their assumed status as couple, but no one seemed to pay attention in the general press of shopping.
Once inside Cherry took charge, herding them to one of the more exclusive shops. One that Erica would never even think of entering on her own. Just the sight of the eager saleswoman’s face made her want to turn and run. The place made her feel as if she were caught sneaking in where she didn’t belong and she wished she’d chosen something a little less casual than her faded blue jeans and novelty t-shirt. The woman’s smile grew even bigger when Cherry told her that she, Erica, was the woman scheduled for a fitting and everything should be charged to the Master of the City’s account.
“Oh, no.” Erica whispered as the woman waved them toward the back.
“Oh, yes. Come on.” Cherry grabbed her elbow and tugged her forward. “Relax. Jean Claude loves dressing people up. I have a whole closet full of things at my apartment.”
Cherry wouldn’t hear any more protests, so back they went. Claudia trailed after like some silent shadow while the men were offered seats outside the dressing area. Again, the dressing room made Erica more uncomfortable rather than less. The walls were covered in fabric dyed in soft shades of gold and pink. The carpet was so thick that it swallowed up their footsteps. There was an enormous three-way mirror inside the roomy cubicle - there was only one. In front of the mirror was a small stage upon which the woman insisted she stand dressed in nothing but her bra and panties.
At least they matched, Erica tried to console herself while the saleswoman, Brandy or Bridget, or whatever her name was attacked her with a tape measure, making notes on a little pad and humming along with the soft classical music coming from invisible speakers. Erica made faces at Cherry over the woman’s carefully coiffed head until the wereleopard was forced to stifle her giggles behind her hand. Claudia had to turn around to look over the short walls that made up the dressing room or else risk cracking her professional stone face.
At last the woman was done. She took her little pad with her as she disappeared through the door. Erica stepped gingerly down from the stage and looked in question at Cherry.
“Don’t get dressed yet.” Cherry answered her unspoken query. “She’s gone to get something for you to try on.”
“Oh. OK.” Erica fidgeted nervously until the smiling woman returned with a double armful of sparking green and gold fabric. She insisted on Erica standing on the stage while she slipped the garment over her head. The gown was much too long, the hem falling below the stage. But the bodice fit perfectly once the gold laces in the front were adjusted. The dress was mostly a deep, rich green that glittered in the lights. It left her neck and shoulders bare. The bodice formed a vee at the bottom that dipped below her waist. The skirt was full, swelling gently past her hips. Golden beads decorated the neckline and edged the short, capped sleeves.
Erica had never worn anything so extravagant in her life. She stared at her reflection, thinking she looked like a stranger. A sophisticated stranger. While the dress was by no means a period piece, it hinted at ages gone by. And despite the fact that it covered her from armpits to toes, it made such a display of her neck and chest that it seemed provocative.
“Do you think Damian would like it?”
“You look like total fang candy in that. He’d have to be full-time dead not to like it.”
“It will fit much better after the alterations have been made. And of course you’ll need proper undergarments and shoes.” The saleswoman said, or maybe she was actually a tailor? The woman had attacked the dress with a handful of pins and a look of determination, making tiny adjustments that Erica couldn’t imagine were actually necessary.
“That will be our next stop, I think.”
“Actually, I’m surprised you have anything this close to my size.” And she was scared to imagine how much it must cost.
“You’d be surprised at how man of our vampire customers prefer their women to be ah…” The woman paused, searching for a polite term.
“Curvy?” Cherry offered.
“Yes. A more voluptuous figure.” The woman returned to her pinning. “Standards of beauty have changed over the years and many of the older vampires prefer the standard that was popular when they were still human. We cater mostly to vampires and their associates.”
“Oh.”
“There. I think that does it. We’ll have the gown ready and delivered by tomorrow afternoon. And we have your measurements on file if the Master cares to order for you again.” She gave a brilliant smile. Erica was sure the woman was hearing the ring of a cash register in her head. “You can get dressed now, my dear.”
“Great.”
~*~
The next stop was a high-end lingerie shop. Erica was grateful when Claudia decreed that the men would be “close enough” lounging on the benches outside the shop. Once again, they were expected and Erica found it easier to deal with the very personal experience of being “properly fitted” now that the men were securely out of earshot. Apparently the Master had already given instructions as to what was needed, since the shop’s proprietor never actually asked what Erica was looking for.
Once the selections were made, they were whisked away, again with the promise of prompt delivery. Only then did the woman try to sell her a few extras. Erica tried to refuse, but Cherry insisted that the lacy green bra and panty set be added to the bill. The last went into a small paper bag with the shop’s logo on it. Cherry took it with a grin and led the way out.
“Next stop is shoes.” Cherry took her arm and tugged her along with such enthusiasm that it made her wonder. Was the wereleopard that into shoes? Or was she short on girlfriends to shop with? Claudia fell into step beside them and the men trailed after.
The shoe shopping wasn’t quite so hard on her nerves, since that was one place where she was easy to fit. Once the gold colored heels were tucked safely in a bag, her companions relaxed a bit. They spent the rest of the afternoon wandering the mall, browsing and sampling the various offerings in the food court.
By the time Claudia’s cell phone rang with the summons to come home, Erica was thoroughly tired of shopping. Cherry had talked her into a few more purchases, all charged to the Master of the City. Caleb had plied her with enough mall food that she feared that her dress would never fit.
Erica had ceased noticing her guards’ casual alertness, but she was a little surprised to find the sun had set by the time they returned to the van. “I can’t believe we spent the whole day in the mall.” She sighed as she settled into her seat for the drive back to Anita’s house. “I haven’t done that since I was a teenager.”
“It’s more fun when you’ve got money to spend, isn’t it?” Cherry flashed a grin and snuggled closer to Zane.
“I suppose so.” Erica agreed absently. The day’s purchases added up a frightening sum. She hadn’t even had the nerve to check the price on the shoes. She closed her eyes and pretended to nap. It wasn’t so hard to feign weariness under the circumstances.
~*~
There was a sense of tension in the air that caused the afternoon’s good mood to evaporate quickly. Her companions fell silent the moment they crossed the threshold. Anita sat waiting on the couch, looking solemn and a little tired. She wasn’t sure where Caleb had disappeared to, but the two wererats sat down close to Anita to talk in quiet voices. Before Erica could follow Zane and Cherry deeper into the house, Damian emerged from the basement.
“Did you enjoy yourself?” Damian’s lips were warm against her cheek and she knew at once that he had already fed. She raised one hand to press against his face, flushed a pale pink with the borrowed blood.
“You’ve fed.” Her disappointment must have been obvious in her tone. “The doctor said I was clear to donate again.”
“Forgive me for making you wait a bit longer. The reason will be made clear soon enough.”
“What reason?”
“That, I am afraid, is for someone else to explain.”
“Damian.” Anxiety and temper fought to make themselves heard. “I don’t like this. If you don’t want me…”
He pulled her aside, deeper into the hallway, moving with that too fast to follow speed of the preternatural. The suddenness of it halted her protests. He cupped her face between his palms, his green eyes glittering.
“Do not doubt that I want you. I have seldom wanted anything so much in my long existence.”
“OK.” What else was there to say? For a moment the force of his sincerity was enough to make her forget anything else. While it wasn’t a declaration of love or anything quite so romantic, it meant something didn’t it? “OK, Damian. OK.”
“Good.” He let his hands drop from her face and instead took her arm, leading her toward the door to the basement. “You have a visitor. He will explain to you what I cannot.”
“Who?”
“Go see. He means you no harm.” He stopped before the door and opened it for her. Soft lamplight gleamed from below. He held her arm for a quiet moment. “ I have already given my consent, but it is for you to choose.”
“Choose what? He simply smiled and gestured down the stairs. “I’ll say no more.”
She blinked at the vampire, then gave him an impulsive kiss on the cheek before beginning her way down the steps. The door closed softly behind her. Slowly the sound of soft music filtered into her awareness.
A man -- a strange vampire -- sat on Damian’s sofa. His head was bowed, causing his hair to fall in a gleaming veil of gold along one side of his face. The profile turned to her was simply beautiful with perfectly formed features. He was dressed casually in a cream colored shirt and worn blue jeans. But the common attire did nothing to blunt the sense of importance that surrounded him. As she drew closer, she could see that his attention was held by the small cat in his lap. Shadow’s purring was audible over the music.
“This charming little creature is yours?” He turned his head just enough to grant her a look from one pale, almost crystalline blue eye. The same startling blue of a husky’s eyes. It was a color she’d never thought to see in a human face.
“Her name is Shadow.”
“Ah. Quite fitting.” He scratched along the cat’s chin and the feline leaned into the caress. “Sometimes I think it a shame that so few of the lesser creatures tolerate us.”
“She seems to like vampires. And at least one wereleopard.” Erica stopped a half dozen paces from the couch, unsure what to do. She wanted very much to know what all the secrecy was about. But finding herself alone with a strange vampire… Her heart began to beat a little faster. She clasped her hands tightly, afraid that they would begin to tremble. “Damian… Damian said you wanted to ask me something.”
The vampire lifted his head until the veil of hair fell back to reveal the rest of his face. Her eyes widened at the sight of scars. Ridged and waxy looking flesh covered most of the newly revealed side, but somehow left his features unblemished. He regarded her silently with those crystalline blue eyes for several moments.
“Do I frighten you, Erica?”
“I… This is the first time I’ve been alone with a vampire since I was attacked. Except for Damian.” She licked her lips and willed her feet to remain still. She watched as one pale hand stroked the cat from ears to tail.
“Do I repulse you?” His voice was utterly expressionless. But the look in his eyes made her feel slightly dizzy. He blinked and the sensation passed.
“No.” She shook her head. “I just… I don’t know you.”
“Of course.” He bowed his head, letting the hair once again mask the scars. It looked like something practiced and familiar. “I am Asher. Jean Claude’s temion. You would say second in command.”
“Oh.” Erica took a step nearer, then stopped. “What do you want with me?”
“Come closer. If you cannot bear my company, then I need not make my request.” He remained still, his expression neutral. His only motion was the stroking of the cat. She pondered that for a moment, trying to sort out the implications.
“You don’t mean that you want me to donate for you? I’m sure you have plenty of willing donors.”
He smiled then, the expression slightly pained. He stopped stroking the cat and extended a hand in her direction. “That is a small part of my request.”
She moved closer, curiosity overriding the lingering traces of fear. He, this Asher, had done nothing at all to her. Damian had said he wouldn’t hurt her. So there was nothing to fear, right? She drew close enough to take his hand. It was warm, so she knew he had fed. That reassured her and she relaxed, allowing him to draw her a little nearer. He brought her hand to his lips and pressed a soft kiss across her knuckles. His hair brushed her skin and she was surprised at its softness.
“You don’t mean tonight.”
No, cherie. Not tonight.” He pulled her down to sit beside him. When he let go of her hand it came to rest on the cat’s flank and she began to toy with the creature’s fur. “Tomorrow night we are to entertain a visiting master vampire and we shall be deprived of our lycanthropic friends as well as Anita.”
“I heard about that.”
“It is customary to make some sort of entertainment. One that displays how strong we are. Strong enough to discourage those who might wish to take our place. Rumor has it that this master is ambitious above his station.”
“Ambitious enough to attack the Master of the City’s girlfriend?”
“Perhaps.” He turned his head enough to give her an appraising look. Erica tried not to fidget and nearly jumped when his hand brushed hers while he stroked the cat. “It is also rumored that his animal to call is the wild boar. It is rather unusual that he should choose the night of the full moon for his visit.”
“You think he is behind the attacks on Nathaniel and me.”
“Oui. But we are not certain. And he is here on legitimate business for his master. We did consult with his Master of the City.”
“OK. But what does this have to do with me?” The vampire’s hand had come to rest on hers, his long fingers playing along the back of her hand. She wasn’t sure if she should pull away or not. Afraid of offending him, she let it go.
“It has very much to do with you.” His fingers curled around hers and he lifted her hand again to his lips for another kiss. A strange thought flickered across her consciousness. Was he nervous? “This entertainment should be a display of power. Power that is unique to our kiss.”
“What sort of power?” He smiled at the question, keeping her hand in his, letting it rest in his lap.
“You have heard of the arduer?”
“Yes.”
“Good. Anita’s arduer stems from her connection to our Jean Claude. It gives him a very valuable and unique tool to gather power to himself.“ He paused for a moment, waiting for a response. She nodded encouragement. “I, too, have a unique gift. My bite is…special.”
“Special how?” Some of the wereleopards had mentioned it, but she wasn’t quite sure she understood.
“My bite can bring true release. To both myself and my donor.”
“True release?”
“Orgasm. In the terminology of this age.”
“Oh.” Erica blinked, her stomach fluttering. What was he asking for exactly?
“If you agree, we wish to use you as Anita’s surrogate for this bit of ‘entertainment.’ We hope that by making your presence a very visible portion of the display, we may provoke some telling reaction from this visitor.”
“Anita’s surrogate?”
“I would feed upon you and Jean Claude would feed upon us both with the arduer.”
“The arduer? I…I’m not into public sex.” Erica began to withdraw her hand, but he held it tight enough that there was no graceful way to break free. No way at all if he didn’t want to let go. “Why couldn’t Damian…”
“Relax, cherie.” He stroked her hand with his free one. Sensing the growing tension, the cat slipped from the vampire’s lap to disappear into the shadows. “You misunderstand me.” His voice was so soothing and compelling she met his gaze over her better judgement. But his eyes were simply eyes.
“OK. Explain.”
“Were Damian to take my place, it would have to be true sex to achieve the same result. As you say, you do not care for public sex. Nor does Damian. And he would not care to have Jean Claude feed the arduer upon him. He is no lover of men.”
“So, what is supposed to happen?”
“Anita thought that since it is I who is to… Ah, what was her phrase? To ‘sink fang in your neck’ that I should be the one to make this request of you.” He turned enough to her that the edges of his scars were visible, but his smile was warm and gentle enough to dissolve any lingering shock. “We would all remain clothed, you, Jean Claude, and I. But some touching would be necessary.”
“What kind of touching?” Erica fidgeted nervously and the vampire chuckled softly.
“Once upon a time, men and women would beg for such an offer, to be caught between Jean Claude and myself. But that was a long time ago and I am not the beauty I once was.” Was there a trace of bitterness in his voice?
“It’s not that. It’s just that I’m… I’ve never let another vampire feed on me. Not willingly. And Damian… Will he be in trouble if I say no?”
“No, cherie. No. It is enough that he has given his consent.” He let go of her hand and moved slightly, once again shielding his scars from view. “If you cannot bear my touch, then we will make other arrangements.”
“I didn’t say that.” Erica shifted on the couch, turning so that one leg was tucked under and she could face him more squarely. She reached out slowly, hoping she wasn’t pushing too far. The vampire was motionless, only the expression in his eye showing that he was more than a beautiful statue. She reached out to cup his scarred cheek, feeling the harsh ridges against her fingertips, the softness of his hair tickling the back of her hand.
Asher remained motionless under her touch. She explored the scars with her fingertips, taking her time, though her heart pounded with nervousness. Then she placed her palm against his ruined cheek and turned his face toward her. The vampire’s hand rose to cover hers, but he allowed her to move him. His blue eyes glittered.
“Cherie…”
“It’s not you. And it’s not the scars. They just make you more… I don’t know. Real?” She sidled closer until she knelt, her knees touching his thigh. “It’s vampires in general. I had a bad scare, that’s all. I don’t know if I’m a good enough actress to pull this off. I’m afraid I’ll panic or do something stupid.”
“We will let no harm come to you, Erica. And it is forbidden to harm another’s pomme de sang.”
“Will Damian be there?”
“Of course.” He pulled her hand from his face gently. He drew his fingers up her arm until he grasped her upper arm in a loose grip. He raised his free hand to brush her hair from her shoulder, pulling it aside to reveal the nearly healed bite on her neck. He traced the healing would with his fingertips and she shivered. “You will do this, cherie?”
“Yes. Tell me what I’m supposed to do.”
Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter 7
Disclaimer: I do not own any part of the Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter franchise. The world and all its inhabitants belong to Laurell K. Hamilton. I’ve just borrowed her world for my own, and hopefully your, entertainment. I make no money from this work and discourage any attempts to sue me as being fiscally unrewarding.
Warnings: Legal adults only. Graphic sex, violence, adult themes, vampires and lycanthropes. Read at your own risk.
Authors Note: Ever had a character keep pestering you in the back of your skull until there was nothing to do for it, but sit down and write? Damian may be quiet, but he’s bloody persistent. Enjoy.
Chapter Eight: A request.
“Damn.” Anita sighed and reached for her mug of coffee.
“Are you satisfied?”
“Yes and no.” She cradled the cup in her hands, her eyes focused on the doorway through which Erica had passed. “I don’t like the way she simply accepts all this.”
“You don’t understand it.” Damian turned to her, stroking his hands up and down her shoulders. “You think she will simply obey me without question.”
“I think she’s in love with you.”
“Love?” His stroking paused. “You exaggerate, Anita. Infatuated, perhaps.”
“No. I don’t think so.” She frowned. “I was hoping this was just infatuation.”
“You are hoping she will grow tired of me and go away.” Damian’s expression stiffened.
“I’m just worried that she’s making decisions with her heart, not her head. Love is blind.”
“I have found her to be thoughtful and levelheaded.”
“Her submissiveness worries me. I don’t need another victim in my life.”
“Ah.” His stroking resumed. “She is not so submissive as you think, Anita. Only reserved. She does not rage at the world as you do.”
“Is that a criticism, Damian?”
“An observation.”
“Humph. So I’m high maintenance, and she’s not.”
“It does make this all much simpler.”
“OK. I can agree with that.” Anita drained the last sip from her cup and Damian took it from her. He set it aside. “I don’t like this plan, but I haven’t got anything better to offer.”
“Shall I ask her before the dawn comes?”
“No. It’s Asher’s idea. Let him sell it.”
“I am to tell her nothing?” His brows rose. “I have been truthful with her until now.”
“I’m not asking you to lie. Just to wait and let Asher make the pitch himself. I’m afraid if you or I say it, she’ll treat it as an order.”
“Perhaps.” Damian slid his hands around her waist to help her down. “You should rest.”
“And you should go spend some time with the oh-so-patient-Erica.”
“You sound jealous.”
“And you sound too pleased. Go Damian.”
“As you wish.”
~*~
He found the girl curled up on his bed, idly stroking her cat while she read by the light of a single lamp. She looked up at the sound of his footstep and smiled. The expression brought a light to her eyes and a softness to her features. Anita’s words echoed in his mind. Was this love?
It was a strange thought. His maker had never made any pretense of love, nor did Anita now. There had been no one woman to hold such affection for him in that long ago mortal lifetime. And such things were thought of differently then.
“Is something wrong?” He’d been silent too long. Her smile faded into lines of concern. “Are you…mad about Caleb?”
“No. I am not angry.” He shook his head and smiled reassuringly, settling down on the bed beside her. “I simply find myself thinking of things that I have not thought of in centuries. Perhaps never.”
“What things?” She closed her book and set it on the bedside table. The cat was displaced with a nudge of her elbow and the creature slunk off into the shadows without a sound.
“How lovely you are and how fortunate I am to have your affections.” He climbed further onto the bed, resting his back against the headboard and pulling her into the curve of his arm. “Were I more learned, I might recite poetry as Requiem does. Were I mortal - I think I have not regretted my state so much for a very long time.”
“If you were mortal now you wouldn’t be the same person, Damian.”
“I suppose not.” She cuddled closer and he kissed her temple, breathing in the scent of her. Shampoo, make-up, and a trace of the leopards with whom she spent so much of her time. “How are you, my lovely? You have had quite the day.”
“I’m fine, I think.” She closed her eyes and sighed. “I feel better now that you’re here. What did you and Anita talk about?”
“Much of the night was spent in discussing plans and making preparations.” He pondered what he could tell her. Anita’s injunction sat uneasily on him, but he must obey. “You will likely learn more tomorrow evening. There is too much to tell and too little time before the sun rises. I would rather spend this time in other ways.”
He pulled her into his lap for a kiss. She returned it eagerly, her hands moving across his bare skin, feeling hot next to the coolness of his flesh.
“Damian…” She murmured his name, nibbling maddening trails down his neck. He shivered in reaction and she chuckled softly. “I can’t believe I can do that to you.”
“That and more.” He whispered and let his hands slip beneath the soft fabric of her sleep shirt. She moaned as he cupped her breasts, kneading gently. She shifted in his arms, straddling his lap. She settled back down and rocked gently against him, mimicking even more intimate contact. He groaned with a mixture of pleasure and frustration. Erica sighed and pulled back her hair, tossing it over her shoulder, baring her neck to him. He could see the strong beat of her pulse beneath the skin. The scent of the blood so close to the surface was nearly as tempting as the flesh in his hands. He leaned forward and pressed a gentle kiss against that pulsing beat and sighed. “No my lovely. No.”
“But you need to feed. Or did you…” She hesitated to ask. Had he fed from someone else after spending his borrowed vitality to sate his mistress’s arduer? She moved against him again and he groaned, burying his face in the warm cradle of her neck. “Please, Damian. I feel fine. And I want this. I want to feel you feed while we make love.”
“No. No my sweet Erica.” His hands roved over her flesh, coaxing, teasing, and pleading for her forgiveness. “Not tonight. I cannot. Please do not ask me. I can pleasure you in other ways.”
“Why?” She pulled back and took his face in her hands to search his face for the answer. “Why? Did Anita tell you not to?”
“There are things I am not permitted to tell you.” He watched thoughts flicker through those green eyes. Worry, hurt, confusion. “I do not choose to keep secrets from you.”
“Is she jealous?”
“A little, I think. But that is not the reason why I am not to share all I know.” He pulled her close, embracing her tightly. “We cannot be sure what will happen these next few days. Neither I nor my masters wish to risk you unnecessarily.” She was quiet for a handful of heartbeats and he wondered what was passing through her mind.
“All right.” She whispered against his ear. “No feeding tonight.” Her lips nibbled at the lobe of his ear and he tightened his grip. “So what do we do then?”
“Let me show you.” And he did, stripping away her nightclothes, making love to her with hands and mouth. Each sigh and moan, each shiver and cry she made filled his senses with the hum of life. He swallowed up her cries of pleasure and held her as she shuddered in ecstasy, pleased by his own skills. There was something freeing about it. About giving no thought to his own release and concentrating on the woman in his arms.
It was nearly dawn when she lay beside him, flushed and spent and drowsy. “No more, Damian. I’m only human. I can only take so much.” Her chest rose and fell as she breathed deeply, her pulse still beating at him in a siren’s song.
“Yes. Human.” He pulled her head to rest it against his shoulder, not yet ready to flee the coming dawn. “You remind me of what it was like so very long ago.”
“I hope that’s a good thing.” She snuggled closer and he reached out to pull the blankets over her. He did not feel the chill, but she would once the heat of exertion had passed.
“It is.” He stroked her hair back from her face. She smiled sleepily at the caress. “You should sleep while you can.”
“I want to wait until dawn comes.”
“It is nearly here.” He sighed. “Shall I help you to sleep?”
“No. I won’t be awake much longer.” She yawned. ”My sleep’s all mixed up lately.”
“It is the price of associating with such as I, I am afraid.”
“It’s worth it. Don’t worry…” Her eyes closed and her breathing slowed. He listened to the soft sound of her breath for several long moments, not even stirring when Shadow leapt up onto the bed to curl up against her mistress’s hip. He gave the little beast a few friendly strokes and it began to purr. He was stalling, not wanting to leave the warmth of Erica’s body for the close darkness of his coffin.
But at last, there was no more time and he slipped from beneath the sheets to take his place in his coffin. He had barely settled against the cold pillow before dawn came and stole all awareness from him.
~*~
Erica awoke in the darkness of the basement and lay listening to the distant sound of activity above her. Footsteps and voices, too indistinct to put names or faces to. She lay staring into the dimness for what felt like a long time, thinking. Shadow was a warm ball of fluff at the small of her back and the other side of the bed was empty. She sighed.
What was going to happen over the next few nights? Why wasn’t Damian allowed to answer her questions or take her blood? She felt fine. Too many questions and not enough answers.
She rolled over and sat up, picking up the little cat and settling her in her lap. She stroked Shadow as she pondered, using her privacy while she had it. It sounded as if Anita had a full house today. Which probably wouldn’t improve the woman’s attitude any.
Anita’s insistence that she would have to leave when the crisis was over didn’t sit well with her. So much had happened that she hadn’t given any serious thought to where she would go or what she would do. The chances of keeping her job seemed pretty slim and while her share of the rent and utilities were paid for the next few months, living with Candace would be very awkward. If the girl didn’t approve of her seeing a vampire, she’d hardly be any more accepting of a vampire and a wereleopard. That was assuming, of course, that Caleb’s interest continued. That brought on worry about how she was supposed to deal with him in the meantime.
Thoughts like that kept her still sitting on the bed in the dark despite the rumbling in her stomach and the pressure in her bladder. But the thing that really kept her rooted to the spot was the feeling that Anita wanted her out. Not just out of her house - which was reasonable - but out of her life. Out of the weird little family thing she had going, with it’s mix of vampires and lycanthropes. Maybe even out of Damian’s life. He wouldn’t want to do it, but if his mistress really wanted to separate them, he would have to obey.
The sound of the basement door opening pulled her from her reverie. She pulled the sheets up around her as footsteps descended. A few more steps and her visitor came into view.
“Erica? Are you up?” It was Cherry.
“Yeah. I’m up.”
“Why are you sitting in the dark?” Of course the wereleopard could see her in the dim light coming from the open door.
“I haven’t been up long.” She relaxed and leaned over to snap on the bedside light. “What time is it?”
“A little after ten. The doctor is here. She wants to check you out before she leaves.”
“The doctor? Yeah. Just give me a minute to get dressed.”
“I’ll send her down in a couple of minutes.” Cherry vanished back up the stairs and the door closed with a quiet click. Erica could still hear the sounds of people moving back and forth upstairs. Not wanting to be caught with her pants down, or worse yet, in the middle of the floor, she hurried to dress and straighten up. She was in the process of making the bed when the doctor’s voice came from behind her.
“Well, I can say from here that you are looking much better.” Erica turned with a start to regard the woman in her sensible gray pantsuit, her silver hair gleaming in the lamplight. “Don’t bother for me. I hope I haven’t awakened you too early.”
“I was up. I was just being lazy.”
“Hmm.” The doctor stepped further into the room and sat a little black case on an end table. “Come here and let me have a look at you. The Master of the City was quite insistent that you be looked at.”
“He was?” She left the bed half made and perched on the edge of the couch at a gesture from the older woman. “I thought you were here to check on Nathaniel.”
“Oh, I am. I’m Dr. Lillian, by the way.” The woman pulled a stethoscope from her bag and pressed it against Erica’s chest to listen. “Breathe deeply.”
The doctor spent several moments checking her vitals and asking questions. She seemed pleased to find the bite on Erica’s neck almost completely healed.
“Why was the Master of the City so interested in my health?”
“He didn’t say. But he was most interested in whether it was safe for you to donate again.”
“Is it?”
“If you don’t overdo it.” The rest of the doctor’s visit was spent in a lecture on how often was safe to ‘donate’ and how best to care for herself. She was happy to hear that Nathaniel had already shared much of the basics. “Well, I think that covers it. You are a very lucky young woman.”
“I know.”
“I’ll leave these supplements with you. Take them.”
“Yes ma’am.” Erica accepted the handful of bottles.
“Take good care of yourself and you won’t need to see me again.” The older woman nodded her head and smiled. “And don’t judge yourself by lycanthrope standards. They can donate every other night. You can’t. I’ve seen too many humans get into trouble that way.”
“I understand.”
“Good. Jealousy isn’t worth ruining your health over.” With that parting shot, the doctor made her way back up the steps, passing Cherry on her way down.” Everything checks out. No restrictions.”
“Yes, doctor.” Cherry nodded and stepped aside to let the doctor pass, then flashed a grin. “I’ve got more good news.”
“Oh?”
“We’re going shopping on Jean Claude’s dime.” Cherry glided down the remaining steps, pausing until the door closed above. “I think it’s just an excuse to get you out of the way for a few hours. But who cares?”
“Out of the way?” Erica frowned.
“Lycanthrope business. Not everyone is OK with having a norm around.” Cherry shrugged. “Some people are still in the closet. Like the doctor.”
“Oh. I gotcha.” Erica grabbed her purse, and then hesitated. “Do I have time for a shower?”
“Sure. The second floor bathroom should be free.” Cherry smiled. “But stay out of the kitchen. It’s were central at the moment. We’ll grab something to eat before we hit the mall.”
~*~
It was eleven by the time they climbed inside the gunmetal gray van parked along the curb. Its windows were tinted a silvery black and the inside had that too-clean look and smell of a rental vehicle.
‘We’ turned out to be Erica, Cherry, Zane, Caleb and two wererats introduced to her as Claudia and Bobby Lee. According to Caleb, they were honest-to-god gun carrying bodyguards. She had to believe it. Despite his lazy sounding southern drawl and laid back attitude, Bobby Lee’s blue eyes never stopped moving. The older man had short salt and pepper hair and a neatly trimmed beard and mustache. He was probably six feet tall, but seemed shorter next to his partner. The brunette Claudia was easily the tallest, most muscular woman she had ever met. She wasn’t quite sure whether she found their presence reassuring or just plain intimidating.
“Relax, Erica. It’s our job to worry.” The tall woman smiled and gave her a friendly pat on the shoulder. “All you have to remember is to stay within our sight and if we tell you to do something, do it first and ask questions later.”
“I think I can do that.” Erica smiled back and buckled herself in to the center seat. Caleb slid into the spot beside her with a grin. The two wererats took the front seats while Cherry and Zane took the rear-most bench. Bobby Lee started the engine and pulled out slowly.
“So you’re playing bodyguard today too?” Erica asked once they were on their way.
“Nope. I’m your date.” Caleb’s grin grew even wider. A snort from the backseat made her turn to regard Zane with a questioning look.
“Anita thought a mixed group would look less conspicuous. None of us are important enough to be needed at the meeting.”
“Oh.” Erica turned back, giving Caleb a sidelong look.
“Jean Claude and Anita are fairly sure you’re not the primary target. It’s Nathaniel and Damian who are being targeted so far. Probably to get to Anita.” Claudia spoke loud enough to be heard. “We don’t really expect trouble. And if anyone is paying attention, your being seen with someone else will throw some doubt on your importance to Damian.”
“So I volunteered to play your boyfriend.” Caleb reached out and grabbed her hand. “Since I’ve done it before.”
“He did?” Cherry’s voice rose in question and Erica fought not to blush as Caleb explained. His description of her roommate was so comically accurate and uncomplimentary that she didn’t know whether to laugh or defend the woman. Through it all, Caleb refused to give up her hand, making a show of mock affection by kissing her knuckles and giving her exaggerated looks of longing.
He had his fellow wereleopards laughing hard enough to make Cherry’s eyes water and to bring a spark of mischief to Zane’s eyes. She even thought she heard a chuckle or two from the pair up front. Erica herself gave into the giggles and even added a few sighs of her own, fluttering her eyelashes at him.
Too late for breakfast, they pulled into the parking lot of a family restaurant. The wererats made them wait as they climbed out of the van and gave the sparsely occupied lot a good looking over. As far as Erica could tell, the place had been chosen randomly, so it seemed pretty far fetched to her that someone might be laying in wait. But it did sober her a little. Satisfied that there was no obvious threat, Claudia opened her door and waved her out.
“Hope this place is OK. It’s a little early for lunch.” Claudia’s tone was friendly, but her eyes weren’t on Erica. “I’ve been here before. You can see all the exits from the main dining area.”
“I’m sure it’s fine.” Caleb slid out right behind her and slipped his arm around her waist. He pulled her aside so that Zane and Cherry could clamber out. Zane clapped the shorter man on the shoulder in passing. Erica thought Caleb looked startled, but pleased. She wasn’t given much chance to think about it as their guards hustled them inside.
The food was standard fare, nothing special, but the good mood continued to though the meal. Claudia and Bobby Lee ate with them, sitting across from each other so that they could watch the doors. For the most part the two wererats stayed out of the conversation, joining in just enough to look casual, she thought. It was probably wasted effort. Only two families came in, both with children too young to be in school. Hardly assassin material.
“So how long had you been going to the club?” Erica blinked at Cherry’s question.
“About six months, I think. I’m really not sure.” She glanced at Caleb before continuing. “A friend talked me into it. Sort of a dare. I’m sure she never thought I’d go through with volunteering to donate.”
“So it was just the vampires you went to see?” Zane put down his soda.
“Pretty much.” Erica played with her napkin, unsure where to look. Caleb’s eyes were focused on her, his arm along the back of her seat.
“She came to see Damian.” Caleb stroked her hair. “Word got around pretty fast.”
“Damian dances with hundreds of girls.”
“We’ve all got our favorites, Erica.” His tone was suggestive. “Management doesn’t like fights on the property. So no poaching someone else’s regulars.” The last was said close to her ear. Close enough that his breath made her hair shift against her neck.
“Oh.” She shivered slightly and he grinned at her.
“Besides, Damian’s an old one. If he gives a woman something, that means something.” He pulled a familiar length of green and gold fabric from his pocket and ran it through his fingers. “Marking his territory.” He slung it across Erica’s shoulders and she flushed, pulling it off and tucking it in her purse, glad to have it back.
“That’s barbaric.” Cherry snorted.
“It’s true, though.” Zane made a silent toast to Erica. “Better be careful how hard you play boyfriend, Caleb.”
“He is a barbarian. He was a Viking, wasn’t he?” Claudia’s question turned their attention back to the wererat. She shrugged. “I mean the old ones never seem to quite lose their original identity.”
“He’s definitely different from anyone I’ve ever dated before.” Erica tried to hide her blush behind her own glass. “Even taking into consideration that he’s a vampire.”
After that, Claudia took pity on her, steering the conversation toward more general observations about the vampires she had worked for. Even Bobby Lee offered some observations of his own. He had a knack for storytelling, his accent lending a unique flavor to his anecdotes.
Caleb seemed content to simply sit close to her, touching her often, playing the infatuated boyfriend to the hilt. She was mildly surprised when he produced a company credit card to pay for the meal. Apparently Jean Claude didn’t share Micah’s misgivings about allowing the wereleopard to handle money. Caleb preened a little, over-tipping their waitress. You’d almost think it was a real date and he was trying to impress her, she thought.
The two wererats returned to their business-like alertness once they left their seats. And it continued through the drive to the mall and even once they were inside. Erica doubted that anyone would buy their assumed status as couple, but no one seemed to pay attention in the general press of shopping.
Once inside Cherry took charge, herding them to one of the more exclusive shops. One that Erica would never even think of entering on her own. Just the sight of the eager saleswoman’s face made her want to turn and run. The place made her feel as if she were caught sneaking in where she didn’t belong and she wished she’d chosen something a little less casual than her faded blue jeans and novelty t-shirt. The woman’s smile grew even bigger when Cherry told her that she, Erica, was the woman scheduled for a fitting and everything should be charged to the Master of the City’s account.
“Oh, no.” Erica whispered as the woman waved them toward the back.
“Oh, yes. Come on.” Cherry grabbed her elbow and tugged her forward. “Relax. Jean Claude loves dressing people up. I have a whole closet full of things at my apartment.”
Cherry wouldn’t hear any more protests, so back they went. Claudia trailed after like some silent shadow while the men were offered seats outside the dressing area. Again, the dressing room made Erica more uncomfortable rather than less. The walls were covered in fabric dyed in soft shades of gold and pink. The carpet was so thick that it swallowed up their footsteps. There was an enormous three-way mirror inside the roomy cubicle - there was only one. In front of the mirror was a small stage upon which the woman insisted she stand dressed in nothing but her bra and panties.
At least they matched, Erica tried to console herself while the saleswoman, Brandy or Bridget, or whatever her name was attacked her with a tape measure, making notes on a little pad and humming along with the soft classical music coming from invisible speakers. Erica made faces at Cherry over the woman’s carefully coiffed head until the wereleopard was forced to stifle her giggles behind her hand. Claudia had to turn around to look over the short walls that made up the dressing room or else risk cracking her professional stone face.
At last the woman was done. She took her little pad with her as she disappeared through the door. Erica stepped gingerly down from the stage and looked in question at Cherry.
“Don’t get dressed yet.” Cherry answered her unspoken query. “She’s gone to get something for you to try on.”
“Oh. OK.” Erica fidgeted nervously until the smiling woman returned with a double armful of sparking green and gold fabric. She insisted on Erica standing on the stage while she slipped the garment over her head. The gown was much too long, the hem falling below the stage. But the bodice fit perfectly once the gold laces in the front were adjusted. The dress was mostly a deep, rich green that glittered in the lights. It left her neck and shoulders bare. The bodice formed a vee at the bottom that dipped below her waist. The skirt was full, swelling gently past her hips. Golden beads decorated the neckline and edged the short, capped sleeves.
Erica had never worn anything so extravagant in her life. She stared at her reflection, thinking she looked like a stranger. A sophisticated stranger. While the dress was by no means a period piece, it hinted at ages gone by. And despite the fact that it covered her from armpits to toes, it made such a display of her neck and chest that it seemed provocative.
“Do you think Damian would like it?”
“You look like total fang candy in that. He’d have to be full-time dead not to like it.”
“It will fit much better after the alterations have been made. And of course you’ll need proper undergarments and shoes.” The saleswoman said, or maybe she was actually a tailor? The woman had attacked the dress with a handful of pins and a look of determination, making tiny adjustments that Erica couldn’t imagine were actually necessary.
“That will be our next stop, I think.”
“Actually, I’m surprised you have anything this close to my size.” And she was scared to imagine how much it must cost.
“You’d be surprised at how man of our vampire customers prefer their women to be ah…” The woman paused, searching for a polite term.
“Curvy?” Cherry offered.
“Yes. A more voluptuous figure.” The woman returned to her pinning. “Standards of beauty have changed over the years and many of the older vampires prefer the standard that was popular when they were still human. We cater mostly to vampires and their associates.”
“Oh.”
“There. I think that does it. We’ll have the gown ready and delivered by tomorrow afternoon. And we have your measurements on file if the Master cares to order for you again.” She gave a brilliant smile. Erica was sure the woman was hearing the ring of a cash register in her head. “You can get dressed now, my dear.”
“Great.”
~*~
The next stop was a high-end lingerie shop. Erica was grateful when Claudia decreed that the men would be “close enough” lounging on the benches outside the shop. Once again, they were expected and Erica found it easier to deal with the very personal experience of being “properly fitted” now that the men were securely out of earshot. Apparently the Master had already given instructions as to what was needed, since the shop’s proprietor never actually asked what Erica was looking for.
Once the selections were made, they were whisked away, again with the promise of prompt delivery. Only then did the woman try to sell her a few extras. Erica tried to refuse, but Cherry insisted that the lacy green bra and panty set be added to the bill. The last went into a small paper bag with the shop’s logo on it. Cherry took it with a grin and led the way out.
“Next stop is shoes.” Cherry took her arm and tugged her along with such enthusiasm that it made her wonder. Was the wereleopard that into shoes? Or was she short on girlfriends to shop with? Claudia fell into step beside them and the men trailed after.
The shoe shopping wasn’t quite so hard on her nerves, since that was one place where she was easy to fit. Once the gold colored heels were tucked safely in a bag, her companions relaxed a bit. They spent the rest of the afternoon wandering the mall, browsing and sampling the various offerings in the food court.
By the time Claudia’s cell phone rang with the summons to come home, Erica was thoroughly tired of shopping. Cherry had talked her into a few more purchases, all charged to the Master of the City. Caleb had plied her with enough mall food that she feared that her dress would never fit.
Erica had ceased noticing her guards’ casual alertness, but she was a little surprised to find the sun had set by the time they returned to the van. “I can’t believe we spent the whole day in the mall.” She sighed as she settled into her seat for the drive back to Anita’s house. “I haven’t done that since I was a teenager.”
“It’s more fun when you’ve got money to spend, isn’t it?” Cherry flashed a grin and snuggled closer to Zane.
“I suppose so.” Erica agreed absently. The day’s purchases added up a frightening sum. She hadn’t even had the nerve to check the price on the shoes. She closed her eyes and pretended to nap. It wasn’t so hard to feign weariness under the circumstances.
~*~
There was a sense of tension in the air that caused the afternoon’s good mood to evaporate quickly. Her companions fell silent the moment they crossed the threshold. Anita sat waiting on the couch, looking solemn and a little tired. She wasn’t sure where Caleb had disappeared to, but the two wererats sat down close to Anita to talk in quiet voices. Before Erica could follow Zane and Cherry deeper into the house, Damian emerged from the basement.
“Did you enjoy yourself?” Damian’s lips were warm against her cheek and she knew at once that he had already fed. She raised one hand to press against his face, flushed a pale pink with the borrowed blood.
“You’ve fed.” Her disappointment must have been obvious in her tone. “The doctor said I was clear to donate again.”
“Forgive me for making you wait a bit longer. The reason will be made clear soon enough.”
“What reason?”
“That, I am afraid, is for someone else to explain.”
“Damian.” Anxiety and temper fought to make themselves heard. “I don’t like this. If you don’t want me…”
He pulled her aside, deeper into the hallway, moving with that too fast to follow speed of the preternatural. The suddenness of it halted her protests. He cupped her face between his palms, his green eyes glittering.
“Do not doubt that I want you. I have seldom wanted anything so much in my long existence.”
“OK.” What else was there to say? For a moment the force of his sincerity was enough to make her forget anything else. While it wasn’t a declaration of love or anything quite so romantic, it meant something didn’t it? “OK, Damian. OK.”
“Good.” He let his hands drop from her face and instead took her arm, leading her toward the door to the basement. “You have a visitor. He will explain to you what I cannot.”
“Who?”
“Go see. He means you no harm.” He stopped before the door and opened it for her. Soft lamplight gleamed from below. He held her arm for a quiet moment. “ I have already given my consent, but it is for you to choose.”
“Choose what? He simply smiled and gestured down the stairs. “I’ll say no more.”
She blinked at the vampire, then gave him an impulsive kiss on the cheek before beginning her way down the steps. The door closed softly behind her. Slowly the sound of soft music filtered into her awareness.
A man -- a strange vampire -- sat on Damian’s sofa. His head was bowed, causing his hair to fall in a gleaming veil of gold along one side of his face. The profile turned to her was simply beautiful with perfectly formed features. He was dressed casually in a cream colored shirt and worn blue jeans. But the common attire did nothing to blunt the sense of importance that surrounded him. As she drew closer, she could see that his attention was held by the small cat in his lap. Shadow’s purring was audible over the music.
“This charming little creature is yours?” He turned his head just enough to grant her a look from one pale, almost crystalline blue eye. The same startling blue of a husky’s eyes. It was a color she’d never thought to see in a human face.
“Her name is Shadow.”
“Ah. Quite fitting.” He scratched along the cat’s chin and the feline leaned into the caress. “Sometimes I think it a shame that so few of the lesser creatures tolerate us.”
“She seems to like vampires. And at least one wereleopard.” Erica stopped a half dozen paces from the couch, unsure what to do. She wanted very much to know what all the secrecy was about. But finding herself alone with a strange vampire… Her heart began to beat a little faster. She clasped her hands tightly, afraid that they would begin to tremble. “Damian… Damian said you wanted to ask me something.”
The vampire lifted his head until the veil of hair fell back to reveal the rest of his face. Her eyes widened at the sight of scars. Ridged and waxy looking flesh covered most of the newly revealed side, but somehow left his features unblemished. He regarded her silently with those crystalline blue eyes for several moments.
“Do I frighten you, Erica?”
“I… This is the first time I’ve been alone with a vampire since I was attacked. Except for Damian.” She licked her lips and willed her feet to remain still. She watched as one pale hand stroked the cat from ears to tail.
“Do I repulse you?” His voice was utterly expressionless. But the look in his eyes made her feel slightly dizzy. He blinked and the sensation passed.
“No.” She shook her head. “I just… I don’t know you.”
“Of course.” He bowed his head, letting the hair once again mask the scars. It looked like something practiced and familiar. “I am Asher. Jean Claude’s temion. You would say second in command.”
“Oh.” Erica took a step nearer, then stopped. “What do you want with me?”
“Come closer. If you cannot bear my company, then I need not make my request.” He remained still, his expression neutral. His only motion was the stroking of the cat. She pondered that for a moment, trying to sort out the implications.
“You don’t mean that you want me to donate for you? I’m sure you have plenty of willing donors.”
He smiled then, the expression slightly pained. He stopped stroking the cat and extended a hand in her direction. “That is a small part of my request.”
She moved closer, curiosity overriding the lingering traces of fear. He, this Asher, had done nothing at all to her. Damian had said he wouldn’t hurt her. So there was nothing to fear, right? She drew close enough to take his hand. It was warm, so she knew he had fed. That reassured her and she relaxed, allowing him to draw her a little nearer. He brought her hand to his lips and pressed a soft kiss across her knuckles. His hair brushed her skin and she was surprised at its softness.
“You don’t mean tonight.”
No, cherie. Not tonight.” He pulled her down to sit beside him. When he let go of her hand it came to rest on the cat’s flank and she began to toy with the creature’s fur. “Tomorrow night we are to entertain a visiting master vampire and we shall be deprived of our lycanthropic friends as well as Anita.”
“I heard about that.”
“It is customary to make some sort of entertainment. One that displays how strong we are. Strong enough to discourage those who might wish to take our place. Rumor has it that this master is ambitious above his station.”
“Ambitious enough to attack the Master of the City’s girlfriend?”
“Perhaps.” He turned his head enough to give her an appraising look. Erica tried not to fidget and nearly jumped when his hand brushed hers while he stroked the cat. “It is also rumored that his animal to call is the wild boar. It is rather unusual that he should choose the night of the full moon for his visit.”
“You think he is behind the attacks on Nathaniel and me.”
“Oui. But we are not certain. And he is here on legitimate business for his master. We did consult with his Master of the City.”
“OK. But what does this have to do with me?” The vampire’s hand had come to rest on hers, his long fingers playing along the back of her hand. She wasn’t sure if she should pull away or not. Afraid of offending him, she let it go.
“It has very much to do with you.” His fingers curled around hers and he lifted her hand again to his lips for another kiss. A strange thought flickered across her consciousness. Was he nervous? “This entertainment should be a display of power. Power that is unique to our kiss.”
“What sort of power?” He smiled at the question, keeping her hand in his, letting it rest in his lap.
“You have heard of the arduer?”
“Yes.”
“Good. Anita’s arduer stems from her connection to our Jean Claude. It gives him a very valuable and unique tool to gather power to himself.“ He paused for a moment, waiting for a response. She nodded encouragement. “I, too, have a unique gift. My bite is…special.”
“Special how?” Some of the wereleopards had mentioned it, but she wasn’t quite sure she understood.
“My bite can bring true release. To both myself and my donor.”
“True release?”
“Orgasm. In the terminology of this age.”
“Oh.” Erica blinked, her stomach fluttering. What was he asking for exactly?
“If you agree, we wish to use you as Anita’s surrogate for this bit of ‘entertainment.’ We hope that by making your presence a very visible portion of the display, we may provoke some telling reaction from this visitor.”
“Anita’s surrogate?”
“I would feed upon you and Jean Claude would feed upon us both with the arduer.”
“The arduer? I…I’m not into public sex.” Erica began to withdraw her hand, but he held it tight enough that there was no graceful way to break free. No way at all if he didn’t want to let go. “Why couldn’t Damian…”
“Relax, cherie.” He stroked her hand with his free one. Sensing the growing tension, the cat slipped from the vampire’s lap to disappear into the shadows. “You misunderstand me.” His voice was so soothing and compelling she met his gaze over her better judgement. But his eyes were simply eyes.
“OK. Explain.”
“Were Damian to take my place, it would have to be true sex to achieve the same result. As you say, you do not care for public sex. Nor does Damian. And he would not care to have Jean Claude feed the arduer upon him. He is no lover of men.”
“So, what is supposed to happen?”
“Anita thought that since it is I who is to… Ah, what was her phrase? To ‘sink fang in your neck’ that I should be the one to make this request of you.” He turned enough to her that the edges of his scars were visible, but his smile was warm and gentle enough to dissolve any lingering shock. “We would all remain clothed, you, Jean Claude, and I. But some touching would be necessary.”
“What kind of touching?” Erica fidgeted nervously and the vampire chuckled softly.
“Once upon a time, men and women would beg for such an offer, to be caught between Jean Claude and myself. But that was a long time ago and I am not the beauty I once was.” Was there a trace of bitterness in his voice?
“It’s not that. It’s just that I’m… I’ve never let another vampire feed on me. Not willingly. And Damian… Will he be in trouble if I say no?”
“No, cherie. No. It is enough that he has given his consent.” He let go of her hand and moved slightly, once again shielding his scars from view. “If you cannot bear my touch, then we will make other arrangements.”
“I didn’t say that.” Erica shifted on the couch, turning so that one leg was tucked under and she could face him more squarely. She reached out slowly, hoping she wasn’t pushing too far. The vampire was motionless, only the expression in his eye showing that he was more than a beautiful statue. She reached out to cup his scarred cheek, feeling the harsh ridges against her fingertips, the softness of his hair tickling the back of her hand.
Asher remained motionless under her touch. She explored the scars with her fingertips, taking her time, though her heart pounded with nervousness. Then she placed her palm against his ruined cheek and turned his face toward her. The vampire’s hand rose to cover hers, but he allowed her to move him. His blue eyes glittered.
“Cherie…”
“It’s not you. And it’s not the scars. They just make you more… I don’t know. Real?” She sidled closer until she knelt, her knees touching his thigh. “It’s vampires in general. I had a bad scare, that’s all. I don’t know if I’m a good enough actress to pull this off. I’m afraid I’ll panic or do something stupid.”
“We will let no harm come to you, Erica. And it is forbidden to harm another’s pomme de sang.”
“Will Damian be there?”
“Of course.” He pulled her hand from his face gently. He drew his fingers up her arm until he grasped her upper arm in a loose grip. He raised his free hand to brush her hair from her shoulder, pulling it aside to reveal the nearly healed bite on her neck. He traced the healing would with his fingertips and she shivered. “You will do this, cherie?”
“Yes. Tell me what I’m supposed to do.”