Page 25 of Daring Her Vampires

“You can.”

“Why do you wear leather cuffs?” I ask. He stiffens, and I stop the motion of my hand. I didn’t know the question would cause such a reaction. The teasing atmosphere is gone. “Hey, you don’t have to tell me.”

“It’s a long story,” he begins, but pauses, taking a deep breath. “I don’t want to talk about it here.”

“You can tell me when you are ready.” I press my palm flat on his chest. “We have time. I have plenty of things that will be hard to say.”

“Has it only been a day?” he asks, his face clearing.

“It seems longer,” I agree. The noise of the club falls into the background as if we are the only people here. “You didn’t want a drink?” He ate a little but didn’t order a drink.

“I don’t drink alcohol,” he says, tucking my hair behind my ear. His gaze follows the movement and settles on my ear. “Our father drank.” He meets my eyes and drops his hand. “A lot. Hewas an angry drunk. I decided a long time ago not to follow in his footsteps.”

“I’m sorry.” Shifters burn alcohol fast, so we have to drink several to feel a buzz, and vampires more so.

“It doesn’t affect my life.”

“Does it bother you to be around it?” I ask. It’s not something I need. The social aspects of it are what I enjoy.

“No.” He frowns. “That’s not true. I don’t care if others have it, but I have moments of tension. Everyone reacts differently to its effects.” He shakes his head. “I’m cautious around those who indulge.”

“If it makes you uncomfortable—” He shakes his head again.

“I don’t want to change you. If you like it, do it.” He squeezes my hip. “Just know I will make sure it doesn’t become a problem. I’m sensitive to the signs.”

“I understand.” I smile softly. “It’s more of a reflex after a long day or if I’m at the club. Usually, I sip one all night.”

“Little Bunny,” he whispers, and I watch his lips form the words. “Do what you want. I’ll be here to watch out for you.”

“A man has never said that to me,” I mumble, and I’m surprised how much I want his protection.

“Good.” He kisses me lightly, pulling away quickly. “You were waiting for the right men.”

“I guess so.” I want his mouth on mine, this time longer and deeper. I’m not opposed to public displays of affection. Even though I am very open about my needs and opinions about women and sex, there are things I want to do in private. Months from now, making out in a room full of people won’t be a big deal, but we need time to get to know each other.

“Is this a regular thing?” he asks, motioning around the room.

“Yes.” I smile. “Especially when someone meets their mate. We have gatherings at the club, BBQs, family nights, and dinnertogether. Does it bother you?” He hasn’t shown his feelings like Luca has.

“It’s different. It’s been the three of us for so long, so being in such a varied group will be an adjustment. We will adjust, though.”

“I hope one day you’ll enjoy it,” I say.

“As long as you’re with us, we will.”

“Damn, that was the right answer.”

He chuckles, and I smile widely.

“Shit.” We turn toward Bash and follow his gaze to Ryker as he storms into the room.

“I found a dead human at my back door. She was bitten by a vampire. I can smell another vampire's blood on her and inside her. It seems Fredrick is playing games, and I’m pissed. We have to find him.” He glares at Atlas and Luca before looking at me. “If your mates don’t kill him, I will, and I’ll make it hurt,” he hisses.

“Did he leave a message?” Atlas asks.

“Isn’t her death message enough?” he snarls. “I moved the body. Having it at my club, out in the open, isn’t great for business. I wasn’t looking for a message, and you know this asshole better than me.”

“He knew we were going to be here,” Luca growls.