Page 140 of Blood as Sweet as Roses

“What is it?” I ask eagerly.

Ever since the hotel was attacked, there’s been a huge shift in the power dynamics of the eastern region. At first, we were concerned that it would significantly weaken the Night clan’s position. But ever since her failed attack, Oana has been very quiet. The eastern shifters haven’t retaliated, at least not yet. And after many talks with the Artemis witches, they confirmed that they aren’t allied with her, although there may be some independent witches who joined her. But Crimson’s alliances to the north seem to have worked in our favour.

“The mermaids of the Crystal Cove want to support our clan,” Kai says. “Mermaids typically don’t make alliances like this, but they’re expanding their influence across the city and they want to offer their support.”

Crimson looks pleasantly surprised. “Wouldwe be able to use their docks? That would benefit us. None of the other magical clans have been able to safely travel along the coast since the feud between the mermaids and the dolphin shifters began.”

“Yes, they’ll give us access to their coast, and they’d like to be a part of Murad’s initiative to share magical knowledge and practices across the clans,” Kai says.

“We’ve been isolated for far too long,” their husband adds. “The mermaids were always suspicious of Xavian, but after Crimson supported our union, they’ve warmed up to the idea of partnering with vampires.”

“We’re very interested in that partnership,” Crimson confirms. She looks at her progeny proudly. “Excellent work, Kai. You’ve done well.”

The young vampire beams at both of us. “Thanks, Crimson. And I’m sorry for interrupting. Happy birthday, Paige!”

They disappear back into the crowd, the merman a little unsteady on the dancefloor. I guess it must be strange to get used to walking. Behind them, I can see Murad and Eloise in each other’s arms.

I’m overcome with a wonderful, happy feeling. I’ve never been surrounded by so many people who cared about me before. I’ve certainlyneverhad a birthday like this.

And I never expected to find a love like the one I’ve found with Crimson.

She takes me in her arms, and gives me a probing look. “What are you thinking about, sweet one?”

I shiver pleasurably at her chilly, thrilling touch. “Just how happy I am.”

“Hold on to that feeling,” she says with a grimace. “For when Kai and Alin give us all the paperwork to approve for the alliance with the mermaids.”

I laugh. “Oh, I don’t mind. I like helping you with those sorts of things.”

“You’re more than welcome to take the lead on it,” she teases. Then she gets a little quieter, a little softer. “I’m glad to have you by my side, Paige. We have a lot to rebuild, but I want to do it with you. Together.”

My heart flutters, and I melt into her arms, holding her tight.

“I love you so much, Crimson.”

“I love you too, sweet one.”

A pleasant heat radiates through me. I look up at Crimson, shyly.

“My king,” I whisper. “I think those earrings you gave me would go very well with my collar. Maybe I should try them on together, later tonight?”

She smirks, a villainous twinkle in her bloodred eyes.

“That would beperfect,Paige.”