Page 16 of Club Blood

“Thanks, Warren.” The warm reply was genuine. Although he hadn’t worked for me as long as others, I made Warren into who he is, and he owed me. Now, as an overseer of our district in northern Arizona, he was one of the best I had in my corner. Even if his mouth was smart, I knew I could count on him.

“I don’t like how cavalier you sound, Mercy.”

Yes, Warren knew way too much about me.

“It’s just that I’m notsurprised. I know you haven’t been around as long as some, but this sort of thing happens way too often. Nate was only in his position for twenty years. People like him have a shorter immortal life than they did a mortal one. It’s the nature of the position.”But it wouldn’t be for me.

He was quiet on the other end for a moment. I hoped he would take that answer instead of pushing it, I really didn’t want to have to kill Warren too. That would be such an inconvenience, and a waste.

“I guess you’re right. I wouldn’t want to be in that position. To have power over the Southwestern region? No thank you. It sounds like I’d have a stake in my back the moment I saidI do”.

I couldn’t relate. Truth was, being in that position was theonlything I wanted right now. It made the pounding at my center intensify. Power and pleasure went together so well.

“Then I’m glad you won’t be considered,” I teased. “Warren, I’d expect a call from your boss soon, being his number one, and all. Something drastic like this usually involves a meeting after. Most are invited.” I tapped my long nails against the marbled counters, licking my lips to catch the dried blood there.

“Knowing them, it’s more like a party than a meeting, with a lot of sex, drugs, and blood. But it’s a great opportunity to network, too. They’ll name the Southwest’s new High Lord and send everyone on their way. It’s not so much a somber affair, but it’s their version of a funeral, in a sense.”And once I’m named High Lady, nothing can stop me.

“I’ll keep an ear out. I wonder who they’ll decide to replace him with?”

My eyes narrowed. It would be unwise to play my cards so openly, so I hummed in agreement instead.

“Keep your ear to the ground, Warren,” I said, “ I’ll see you soon.”

“Stay careful out there, Mercy. It’s no secret that you were his number one.” There was something that sounded like a warning in his voice, but I chose to ignore it for now. Warren wasn’t stupid enough to accuse me of anything. Not out loud, anyway.

“I’m always careful.” The words were no louder than a hiss, but I knew he heard them. The phone went dead and I slammed it on the counter, shattering the screen.

It wasn’t like I was surprised that this was going to happen. I tried not to let the conversation shake me. The room had lightened over the course of my conversation even with the black out curtains covering the dangerous rays of the sun, and it was time I packed my bags.

No sooner than standing up and walking towards my room did a young vampire approach me hesitantly. I could see the fear in her face, if it wasn’t obvious from the shaking of her legs and the meekness of her voice.

“Hello, my liege,” she bowed. I nodded in recognition. “A letter just arrived for you, from the Authority.” I smiled knowingly. Of course they had set somethingso official. I skimmed it and handed it back to her delicately, shooing her away with a wave of my hand.

If it wasn’t for the human pet, I’d leave right now. I was playing host, though, and I felt an odd, fierce protection over Cecelia. I couldn’t have her harmed by anything here while I was away, there were far too many games I wanted to play with her still. Starting with making her sweat with the visions of me and Narcissa between my legs last night.

My feet turned of their own accord, her new room their destination. It was much better to warn her in person, I thought.

Good luck, Cecelia. I really hope you survive the next few days.

11

CECELIA

I flickedthrough the wardrobe of outfits that had appeared in my room at some point. Everything was the perfect size—which was both super cool and seriously creepy—and way more stylish than I was used to. Dresses and designer jeans and low cut tops that I wouldneverbe able to get away with wearing.

A glance down at myself in my underwear made me second guess wearing the same old clothes I had arrived in. Hanging on the edge of the rail was a few sets of matching undergarments; lacy panties and bras that, while utterly breathtaking, left absolutely nothing to the imagination. Not that anyone was going to see me in my underwear anytime soon. I was a prisoner. Held captive by a fuckingvampire.My life was fucking surreal.

I picked up the set with the most coverage, a gorgeous shade of fuchsia with tiny white ribbons sewn into the edges, and quickly changed into them. I almost sighed as the material connected with my skin, the delicateness of such luxury never having touched my body before. The price tags weren’t on anything but I could only imagine just how much money something like this would cost.

My hands rested on my hips as I examined the clothing options again. I couldn’t decide what would be best for lounging around in a house that wasn’t mine. Mercy said to make myself at home, but that only extended so far when there were beings here that literally wanted to drain me dry whenever they caught my scent. It was terrifying.

And maybe a little exciting?

Life for me was a boring ritual of the same mundane tasks. Wake, eat, shower, work, coffee, eat, sleep. It was a horrifying thought that being kidnapped was the most adventure I’d had in years— and that while I feared for my life, it was also a tiny bit exhilarating.

I settled on a pair of fawn pants—was thatcashmere?!—and a silky white tank with spaghetti straps adorned with tiny white flowers. The pants slipped on like they were made for me, hugging the curves of my thighs in a way that made my ass look the way I had always wanted it to. I was about to grab for the tank top when my door flew open, smacking off the wall.

Grabbing the top and holding it to my chest, I squealed and turned my back to the intruder as I pulled it over my head, cursing myself for having unlocked the door prior to getting dressed.

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