Page 78 of Tempting the Dhampir

“What you got there? Went shopping without me?” Sadie asks when she sees me holding the bags.

“I requested some items for you. Didn’t think you’d be comfortable walking back into the hotel in only my shirt.”

“That’s really thoughtful, thanks. I love wearing your shirt, but maybe only around the house. Now, let me see!” she squeals and makes grabby hands for the bags.

Each item she unpacks makes her eyes grow wider and wider. I can hear her heartbeat picking up as her eyes become watery.

“You really get me, don’t you?” she asks, shaking her head.

I give her a soft smile. “I’m trying my best. Also, your mood boards are very vivid, and I may have had a look at them over your shoulder when you were scrolling through your phone,” I admit, slightly ashamed of myself for violating her privacy, but a little proud at how well I’m getting to know her.

“Well, good thing I don’t mind. I don’t really have secrets, but that could’ve caused you a lot of trouble if you were with someone else. Now wait here while I go change, and then you can compliment me on how good I look in the clothes you got me,” she says, flipping her hair over her shoulder as she struts off.

I love that she knows how to keep me on my toes, that life is interesting with her. Fun. Sexy. I love that she’s confident and that she can be vulnerable with me too, knowing I’ll keep her safe.

I love her.

I love Sadie.

The thought is like a slow-rolling wave, softly crashing over me, drenching me in the knowledge of my love for this woman. Falling in love with Sadie was unexpected and all of a sudden.

I don’t know when it happened, when our teasing became serious, when our innocent flirting became affection, and when it turned into love.

What I do know is that I love her with all my heart and that I will do anything I can to deserve her love back.

Just as I’m snapping out of my thoughts, contemplating when the right time to tell her is, she steps back into the bedroom.

She looks more beautiful than I could have imagined. “You’re exquisite. Do you like it?” I ask as I stare at her, blinking being the only thing my body seems capable of at the moment.

“You mean, do I like the glittery pink mini sheath dress that accentuates my body with its open back and low V front, held together by delicate spaghetti straps? Uh yes, you could say that,” she deadpans, her eyes alight with joy. “It looks like the upgraded version of the one I wore when we met. So I’d say you’ve done pretty well with your selection. Thank you.”

She pads over to me and pulls me down by the back of the neck to place a sweet kiss on my lips. It somehow conveys more than just the words she’s spoken. I can feel her gratefulness for the dress, for me, just from this kiss.

“Give me a couple of minutes while I tame my hair and fix my face. I’ll be ready soon.”

Realizing I haven’t said much in a while, I stumble out a reply. “I’m going to jump in the shower. There’s an issue at the hotel I have to deal with. I’d like to get back there as soon as possible.”

“Got it. Basic makeup day. Can do, captain.” She gives me a little mock salute, and she’s off with one of the bags Pierce brought.

I’m glad my snooping is aiding me so well and that she’ll be able to use the cosmetics she likes.

We both finish in record time and leave the safety of the cool house. We step into the late afternoon, blistering summer heat and hurry to get into my car.

“What’s happening at the hotel? Anything I can help with?” Sadie asks while looking in the sun visor vanity, applying a raspberry color to her lips.

I can’t believe we arrived at my place just yesterday. It feels more like a month. Our relationship has grown to new heights, we’ve made a commitment to each other, and now we’re going to get her belongings to move her in.

“My accidental sperm donor is busy poaching whales at my hotel. I’d love to have a chat with him. He’s never been bold enough to come directly into Auvere and approach them in person. It also seems odd that he’s there when I’m not,” I explain.

“How did he know you won’t be there?”

“Remember Alexandra?” She’s the only link I can think of, and she’s sly enough to pull off such an elaborate plan.

“Do I ever…” she says dryly.

“I’m sure she’s paying someone on my staff to report on my movements. They presumably saw us leave yesterday. When we didn’t return in the evening, they probably pounced on the opportunity to strike while I’m gone. It’s so frustrating.” This is the most likely scenario I could come up with.

“What’s your father’s problem? Can’t he just be happy for you for making a success of your life?” Sadie asks the question my younger self asked countless times.

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