Page 70 of Blood Match

“Why did you ask me here, Rowan?” My voice comes out more hoarsely than I intended. I inhale a breath, taking in her scent. It makes something tighten in my gut…and below.

Her posture is tense. “Well, we need to figure out what’s going on with this…connection.”

I study Rowan, curiosity piqued despite my efforts to remain aloof. Her stance shifts, becoming less defensive. Something’s changed, but I can’t quite put my finger on what.

“Last time we met, you tried to turn me into a vampire kebab,” I say drily. “What’s different now?”

Rowan’s gaze flickers away for a moment before meeting mine again. “Things have changed,” she says, her voice tight with an emotion I can’t quite place.

I raise an eyebrow, waiting for her to elaborate. When she doesn’t, I press further. “Care to enlighten me on these mysterious changes?”

She takes a deep breath. “I have a proposition for you.”

Now, this is interesting.

I keep my expression neutral, even as my mind races with possibilities. “I’m listening.”

Rowan’s next words knock the wind from me, though I manage to keep my face impassive.

“I’ll let you drink from me,” she says in a rush. “In exchange, you help strengthen my magic.”

For a moment, I’m certain I’ve misheard her. The offer is so unexpected, so contrary to everything I thought I knew about this witch, that I find myself momentarily speechless.

I force myself to consider her words carefully, to not betray the shock and…something else…stirring within me. The memory of her scent, the taste of her blood, floods my senses. It takes every ounce of control not to react visibly.

“That’s quite an offer,” I say, keeping my tone even. “What brought this on?”

“It’s not important.” She pinches her lips together. “Do we have a deal?”

“Just like that? You’re not going to give me some sort of explanation?”

“Do you need one?”

“Humor me.”

She exhales a long breath. “I need more magic.”

I study Rowan’s face, searching for any sign of deception. Her eyes meet mine steadily, filled with determination and – desperation, perhaps? – swirling within them.

“Your magic has grown stronger?” I ask, my curiosity spiking.

She nods, a hint of excitement creeping into her voice. “Ever since we met. It’s like…every time I see you, it gets a boost. I need more of it.”

I consider this information carefully. I’m no expert on witch magic, but if what she’s saying is true, this could indeed be a mutually beneficial arrangement. The thought of tasting her blood again sends a thrill through me, one I struggle to suppress.

She’ll give me the strength I need. Willingly.

“I see,” I say, keeping my tone guarded. “And you think my drinking your blood will enhance this effect?”

“I’m almost certain of it,” Rowan replies, her chin lifting slightly.

I weigh my options. The temptation of her blood is nearly overwhelming, but I can’t let her know how much I need it. How much I’ve craved it since that first taste.

“Very well,” I say finally. “I’ll help you strengthen your magic in exchange for drinking your blood.”

Relief flashes across Rowan’s face, quickly replaced by wariness. “Just like that? You agree?”

I allow a small smirk to play at the corner of my mouth. “Let’s just say I find the arrangement…intriguing.”

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