Page 54 of Blood Bound

She smiles, but there’s a hint of concern in her eyes. “We were wondering if you’d like to join us for dinner at the house tonight. Your father’s making his famous lasagna.”

My stomach growls at the thought, but I force a yawn. “Oh, that sounds great, but I’m actually pretty beat. I was thinking of having an early night in with some Netflix and ice cream.”

Mom’s brow furrows slightly. “Are you feeling alright? You look a bit flushed. And your eyes…”

I laugh nervously. “Just took a hot shower. You know how I like to boil myself alive. Should’ve cleaned off the mascara first. I’m sure I look like a panda.”

She chuckles, but I can tell she’s not entirely convinced. “Well, if you change your mind, you’re always welcome. We miss having you around the house.”

Guilt gnaws at me. “Thanks, Mom. Maybe another night?”

She nods. “Get some rest, sweetie. Love you.”

“Love you too,” I call as she heads up the path back to the family home. I close the door and lean against it, letting out a long breath.

That was too close. I need to get out of here before someone catches me. I take a deep breath, bolstering myself. It’s time to take matters into my own hands.

17

Chapter 17

Rowan

For the second time in two days, I’m stepping through the doors to the Nocturne Lounge, grateful that Kara’s code worked on the keypad. The bass thumps through my body, matching my racing pulse. Neon lights flicker and dance across the faces of the patrons, casting eerie shadows that seem to move of their own accord.

I take a deep breath to calm myself and end up inhaling a lungful of scents: expensive perfume, pheromones, blood…lust. It makes my skin prickle.

I scan the crowd, searching for any sign of my mysterious contact. Vampires and humans alike mingle on the dance floor, their bodies intertwined in a sensual rhythm. I spot a few witches, too, their auras flickering at the edges of my magical vision. Once again, it surprises me. All my life, I’ve been certain of the great divide between our kind, yet here, I see that there’s a segment of our society that seems quite happy to mingle.

It doesn’t make what I’m doing any less dangerous, however.

“God, Rowan,” I mutter to myself. “This is definitely not the smartest idea you’ve ever had.”

I remember my last visit here, and Darick’s words echo in my head: Don’t come back here. I forbid it. My shoulders straighten.

“I forbid it. Hah!” I make my way to the bar, figuring it’s as good a place as any to wait. The bartender, a tall vampire with pale silver eyes, gives me a once-over as I approach.

“What’ll it be?” he asks, raising his voice over the pulsing music.

“Just water,” I reply, trying to keep my voice steady. I need to keep my wits about me.

My eyes continue to dart around the room, searching for anyone who might be my contact. Every shadow seems to hide a potential threat, every stranger a possible ally or enemy. The weight of my decision to come here alone presses down on me, making it hard to breathe.

“Freakin’ fairy dust,” I whisper, fidgeting with my earring. “Where are you?”

I’m about to turn back to the bar when I spot him. Darick. My stomach knots as I watch him glide through the crowd, his presence snaring attention without effort. He hasn’t seen me yet, but I can’t tear my eyes away.

That bastard!

Is he here for another witch? Not that I should care, but the thought sends a spike of jealousy through me. I immediately try to squash it. I have no right to feel this way. I don’t want anything to do with him… I don’t!

Before I can decide whether to hide or confront him, Darick’s eyes lock onto mine. His expression shifts from surprise to anger in an instant.

Great. Just what I need.

He’s at my side in seconds. He’s furious. “What the hell are you doing here, Rowan?”

I lift my chin, refusing to be intimidated. “None of your business, Darick. I’m here for my own reasons.”

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