Page 56 of Tempting the Dhampir

“I sent her a message to say we’re doing good, but I didn’t tell her we’re not in the Caribbean anymore.”

Patrick and Mom frequently take trips, so we don’t have to worry about her popping by our place to see us.

“Me neither,” Cece says. “They’re traveling somewhere for the next week, I think maybe the Grand Canyon, so she won’t be looking for us. If we’re going to be away for longer than that, then we’ll have to come up with some sort of explanation.”

I grin and nod in agreement, happy our mom has her own fulfilling life and won’t be too concerned about us. “I think she won’t worry too much. If she heard I was in Vegas, she’d probably just think I’m here to dress up and party. And you in Germany also kind of makes sense. She might think you went there for artistic inspiration.”

“Good point.” Cece giggles. “I’ll just continue to be vague if she messages.”

“Let me know if you tell her anything specific that I should know about.”

“Will do.” Cece peeks over the phone toward something behind the screen. “I’ve got to run. Adelbert is looking for me.”

“I’m really glad we were able to chat. I’m happy you’re okay over there,” I say sincerely. Narrowing my eyes, I add, “Will you let me know if I should call Adelbert and give him a talking to?”

“That won’t be necessary, but I’ll keep the option in my back pocket, okay? Now you go and give Everett a real chance. Think about your future. Lower those walls you’ve built around your heart. Be brave,” she preaches, pointing her finger good-naturedly at me.

“I’m going to try my best. And you go and speak your mind. Also be brave.” I return the same gesture.

“Love you, sis.”

“Love you too.”

I exit our chat and lie back on the bed.

She made some good points. I can’t always wait for the other shoe to drop. Living like that is stressful.

Starting now, I’m lowering my walls. Maybe not quite all the way yet, but enough to see if there’s potential for something special. It definitely felt like there was much more than a spark today. The way we teased, played, the way he asked questions and got to know me.

I don’t want to sabotage myself or anything that could develop between us.

Firming my resolve, I climb into bed with a smile on my face, hopeful for what tomorrow may bring.

Chapter twenty-eight

Everett

As my body stirs awake, I breathe in deeply, a contented sigh slipping past my smiling lips. Despite sleeping alone, Sadie’s decadent scent still lingers in the room and wraps around me like a comforting embrace.

This. This is how I want to wake up every morning. But not just with her scent.

I want her tucked into my side, arms wrapped around me, her head on my chest, her thigh straddling mine, her hair spread out on my pillow.

The vivid image has my morning wood straining harder, begging my hand to find release. But I’m holding out.

When I got to my room last night, I started making calls and putting plans in motion, delaying hotel business. I’m trusting my staff to deal with all the daily admin while I focus on Sadie.

She’s more important.

I didn’t mean to eavesdrop, but my vampire hearing picked up Sadie’s video call with Florence. I thought about putting on my headphones but hesitated when I heard what they were talking about. And I don’t regret listening in.

Not when it’s given me a clearer understanding of how Sadie thinks.

I’ll do anything to prove myself to her. To let her feel that her heart is safe with me.

I want her to trust me.

To fall in love with me.

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