Page 54 of The Tenor's Shadow

Anthony pulled away a little from Freddie, his brow furrowed in confusion. “What?”

“Master Hughes will not like it. I’m sure he already wanted to increase your security detail. Not that it’s necessary. The death of five vampires is a blow to any coven. Normally, that would be enough for them to leave you alone. There are other ways to get at the coven master.”

Anthony cocked his head. “But?”

“New York is Azarian territory.” Freddie’s jaw clenched. “If you go there, they won’t be able to resist an attempt.”

“I wish I understood better what all of this is about.”

“I only know what I’ve told you,” Freddie said. “I’ve kept nothing from you, and I won’t from now on.”

Freddie’s phone beeped from on top of the desk. He disengaged from his mate, walked over, and picked it up, glancing down at his notifications. He grimaced.

“Master Hughes has met with his war council. He wants to talk to us.”

“Okay?” Anthony looked up at Freddie, shaking his head in confusion.

Freddie looked his lover up and down. Fine hair covered his olive skin, culminating in an absolutely delicious-looking treasure trail. His nipples were the perfect size, and Freddie loved how responsive Anthony was when he played with them. However, now was not the time to be thinking these thoughts.

“You, um, probably want to put on a shirt.”

Anthony’s eyes widened, and he sprang into action, running into the bathroom to make himself presentable. Freddie plugged his laptop into the hotel television and sat on the edge of the bed. Anthony had just sat down next to him when Master Hughes appeared on the computer screen.

The coven master looked regal in a gray vest with a deep purple shirt, his deep blue eyes twinkling with humor. Anthony’s uncle was at his side in an oversized plaid sweater. He was bouncing with excitement.

“I’m pleased to see you both awake and safe.” Freddie’s master winked at him. “I assume you’ve told Anthony everything?”

“Yes, Master Hughes,” Freddie answered.

“Good.”

“It’s really wonderful, Anthony!” Daniel leaned in front of his husband, his face filling the screen, so close to the camera that only his nose and mouth were visible. “Having a vampire mate has so many benefits. I’m happy for you.”

“I…thank you, Uncle Daniel. It’s a lot to take in.”

“Let me know if you want vampire sex tips. Or if you ever need to vent about you-know-who.”

“He’s sitting right there, darling.” Master Hughes pulled Daniel back away from the camera with a look of adoration. Master Hughes never smiled like he did when he was with his husband.

“I know he is!” Daniel said. “That’s why I was talking in code,” he said in a stage whisper.

Freddie’s face warmed as he blushed. It was a rare occurrence, and was only possible because he’d fed from Anthony.

“Can we deal with the issue at hand?” Freddie said, covering up his sheepishness with an all-business tone.

“You can do some stuff with your hands,” Daniel said, “but that’s not my favorite.”

“Uncle Danny!” Now Anthony was beet red.

“Yes, darling, let’s get back on track.” Master Hughes put his arm around his husband.

Daniel pouted for a second, then kissed Master Hughes on the cheek. “Fine.”

“You have done an excellent job at protecting Anthony,” Master Hughes began, “but the Azarians are throwing more fire power at him than we expected. I have a strong relationship with the largest Italian covens. Freddie will be sufficient for your next few days in Barcelona, but when you fly to Milan, a larger vampire detail will be waiting for you.”

Anthony turned to Freddie, questioning. Freddie nodded. Even if it complicated things or made him angry, Master Hughes had to know.

“I’m going to New York,” Anthony said.

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