Total pages in book: 36
Estimated words: 32116 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 161(@200wpm)___ 128(@250wpm)___ 107(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 32116 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 161(@200wpm)___ 128(@250wpm)___ 107(@300wpm)
“Fuck yes,” Skyler cheered, pumping a fist in the air. “Got a sharp knife? But you know…not too sharp; we don't want to make it too easy on him.”
I took a deep, cleansing breath to clear my mind and search my thoughts. I hoped I did not upset my mate when I replied, “I'm not sure. I'll admit that every day I was buried, I envisioned my revenge. I wanted to make him pay for what he'd done to me and that poor woman and her family. But I know nothing will bring back her life, or the time I've lost. What you said was true; it is better to live in peace.”
I looked at Skyler, who was scowling at my words. I cupped his cheek and added, “My father is very powerful, and I won't put you at risk. You're everything to me, and I cannot lose you. Perhaps it is better to leave the past alone. I don't want to jeopardize our future. I'm blessed to have an eternity with you, and I don’t want to waste a moment.”
Skyler’s expression softened into a smile. “When you put it that way, it's hard to argue.” He surprised me by climbing onto my lap and resting his forehead on mine. “Fine, we won't hunt down your dad and cut off his dick. But promise me if he starts shit, we'll end it.”
“You have my word.” I would fight to my dying breath to protect him.
Skyler kissed me deeply and then, instead of moving back to his own seat, nuzzled into my hold, resting his head against my shoulder. I was grateful; I needed him close to me, and he felt like heaven in my arms.
Remy and I fell into conversation about things I'd missed in my absence; from jobs he worked to ways our cities had changed. Skyler chimed in every now and then, but soon his breathing turned slow and even as he fell asleep. He was probably still feeling the effects of my feeding, and his body needed to recuperate. I cradled him against me, supporting him with my strength and surrounding him with my love.
Though many things had changed around me, everything remained the same between Remy and me. We picked up as if it had only been days or weeks since we'd seen each other, instead of the actual amount of time that passed. He had the same heart and spirit, and conversation came easy.
We talked late into the night. Vampires didn't need as much sleep as humans. Plus, I was still fully energized from the blood Remy gave me. I wouldn't need to feed for a few days. But Skyler did need rest. Though I was more than happy to hold him until morning, I knew he'd be more comfortable in a bed.
“As much as I am enjoying catching up, I need to get Skyler settled in for the night.”
“I understand.” Remy reached across the table to place his hand on my shoulder. “I'm so happy you're home, and that you have found your true love. May I give you some advice?”
“Please.”
“I've seen much of the world and human life, and learned a lot about how their relationships work. While we fall instantly for our mates, human hearts need a little more convincing. Woo him. Take him out and treat him. Things have changed; you can show your affection for him in public without fear. Don't hold back.”
“Thank you,” I replied seriously. “I will do everything to show him how I feel.”
“I've got something to help.” Remy stood up and left the room for a minute, and returned carrying a stack of paper money. “This is yours,” he said, handing it over. “Of course it's just a tiny portion. When you're settled, I'll get the rest to you. Also, when you need to feed again, I'll show you to the blood bank.”
“Thank you for everything.” Integrating back into the world would be much more difficult, if not impossible, without his help. I stood up and gave him a one armed hug, making sure not to disturb Skyler, who was still resting peacefully in my arms. “I'll see you in a few days?”
“I'll be here.”
Remy led me to the front door and we said our goodbyes. Skyler’s car was close by, but I didn’t want to wake him to drive us. I had plenty of energy, and decided to take us back to the hotel on foot.
I took off, the landscape only a blur around us. I could move at speeds nearly undetectable by the human eye, and got us back to the Walton quickly.
The doorman let us in just as he'd done the night before. When I entered the lobby, I noticed Mason, the same clerk as before, waiting behind his counter.
When he saw us, his eyebrows raised. “Another drunken night? I think your eternal love may have a problem.”