Page 79 of Tempting the Dhampir

I try to explain the harsh reality of being a dhampir in a community that predominantly consists of vampires. “My entire life, the vampire community has looked down on me for being a dhampir, for being born when I shouldn’t have been able to be conceived. I’m a black mark on my father’s reputation, my existence a mistake resulting from a night that was supposed to be fun. He makes it a point to remind me that I shouldn’t be alive.”

“What the fuck is wrong with him? I totally understand why you said I shouldn’t meet him. I’d lay into him, give him a piece of my mind for treating you like trash. I’m sorry you have to experience that.”

Her vehemence warms my heart, reinforcing my internal admission of love for her. I want to make it a big moment when I tell her I love her, woo her with all the romance I can muster. Driving in a car when I’m this wound up is not quite the right atmosphere I want for such a big declaration. Something I’ve never said to anyone else in my life.

“You know, in the past, I just ignored him and kind of stayed out of his way. Let him say what he had to say and tried to rise above it. But not tonight. It ends now,” I say decisively.

I’m done playing his games.

“What do you need me to do? Distract Alexandra? Bring a knife? Silver bullets? How do vampires fight?” Her serious tone makes me chuckle, and soon we’re both falling into fits of laughter.

Sadie makes me feel stronger, bolder, like I can take on any old vampire. Now, I have something—someone—I want to live for. Someone to share my life with. A purpose besides being a thorn in my father’s side.

“I just want you to stay safe. Let’s grab our stuff from the suite after I’m done and get you moved in at the house. Sound good?”

“Sure. I have a quick errand to run while you’re dealing with him. But I’m totally canceling that to get a cheerleader outfit and watch you put that mean fucker in his place. Oh, or boxing gloves! I’m sure I can get them somewhere,” she says brightly, holding her fists up in front of her face and shadowboxing.

I laugh at her antics. “I’d love to see you in nothing but boxing gloves, but I’d rather have you as far away from him as possible. I don’t want his evil to get anywhere close to your bright.”

I know Sadie will support me with whatever I need, but I’d rather have her safe.

Tonight, I’m ready to confront my sire.

Chapter thirty-six

Sadie

Everett and I go our separate ways in the lobby, him on a mission to find his evil father, and me to the appointment I scheduled while we were at the house.

Everett has gone so far beyond my expectations that I can’t help falling in love with him. He truly understands me, indulges me, and ticks every single one of my boxes. He fucks like a king, but more than that, he makes me feel cherished.

He gave me control in the bedroom when I needed it, and he took control when he needed it. There’s something magical about our connection, an understanding between us, a balance that I’ve never experienced before.

I crave him. His laugh, his teasing, his sweetness, his embrace.

I want to know everything about him, help him accomplish his goals, support him in every endeavor.

I want to make him happy.

I want to give him all the love he deserves.

He’s unlocked something in my heart, unlocked a part of me I’ve been keeping safe my entire life.

I want to prove to him that I’m all in, that he’s it for me.

There was a moment last night when I just wanted to tell him. Wanted to throw it all out in the open, but I held off. I have an idea to show him just how committed I am to him, to building a life together, to loving him.

Pierce meets me in the lobby once Everett is out of sight.

“Good evening, Ms. Sadie. Right this way, please.” Pierce leads me to the car.

Once we’re both seated, I ask, “Everett won’t miss you while we’re gone?”

“I think Mr. Ülavere would prefer to handle matters privately tonight. This has been brewing for a long time, and I don’t wish to interfere. However, if he requests my presence, I shall have to leave at once and send another car to collect you. I will inform you of all the arrangements, should it be needed,” he explains formally.

I wonder if his school was also as focused on speech as Everett’s.

“Thanks, Pierce, but I won’t be long. They said it’ll only take about an hour. And I found the closest place with good reviews that could fit me in. Everett probably thinks I’m shopping, so the timing works out.”

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