Page 43 of Fratelli: Eternal Bloodlines

“Stand down, and don’t do anything else,” Lucio commanded.

Do what he says, Darlene. This is not the way. You’re revealing too much too soon. Think about it.Said Dolly.

“Who is he?” Darlene pointed at the man near the door. Tristan stood on one side of the door now and Raven stood on the other. Sebastiano stood before them. Lucio just stared at Darlene to make sure she understood he was in control.

Come to me, Lucio commanded.

Russell glanced at Charmaine and they both watched to see the dynamic between Darlene and Lucio. To Russell’s surprise, Darlene rolled her eyes and stepped even closer to Lucio’s side. She took his hand in hers, and winked at Domencio. Lucio leaned over and kissed her cheek. The public show of affection for her melted a little of the resistance in her. She behaved.

Sebastiano observed her obedience and his brother’s affection. There was no need to hide it any longer. The pain in the room for the vampires lifted. But everyone knew from just a brief sample of discomfort the power Darlene and Dolly wielded.

“Like I said, my name is Sebastiano. I’m the third brother of Domenico and Lucio. Our youngest brother, Marcello, is the special one,” Sebastiano said. He followed her gaze and glanced back at Raven, who leaned against the wall, and leeredat Darlene. “Oh, him? He works for me. His name’s Raven. He’s harmless. Now, let me guess.” Sebastiano closed his eyes, inhaled deeply, then tapped his temple before he looked back at his brother Domenico. “This must be the Darlene, you told me about. You’ve certainly left an impression on my brother. I understand why now.”

Darlene smiled—not at Sebastiano, but at Domenico. “You like it?”

Domenico’s brows lowered in response; his gaze hardened.

“We’re not doing this here,” Lucio cut in, and severed the connection between Darlene and Domencio. What baffled him wasn’t Darlene’s behavior—he knew his little minx was toying with him—but his brother’s response to her felt different. Why did Domenico keep looking at her like that? Lucio wondered.

Meanwhile, Charmaine did her best to stay invisible during the drama. She wasn’t.

What are you...came a whisper in her left ear. She glanced at the men by the door, locking eyes with Raven. He was the one who spoke, and she felt the subtle caress of his reach inside her mind, pulling her toward his deep blue gaze. Tall, goth, and mysterious—those words fit him perfectly. His dark hair brushed his shoulders, a striking contrast to his pale skin. Kohl eyeliner framed his long-lashed eyes. He wore an all-black suit, gloves included. She had to summon her strength—she didn’t have to walk straight into his arms.

Who are you...whispered another voice in her right ear, drawing her gaze to Tristan. He, too, stared, but his eyes captivated her in a different way. Though his face was unreadable, there was warmth in his eyes that beckoned her. His thoughts brushed hers, and she felt her heart flutter. He reached deep inside her mind, and she almost let him in completely. Somehow, she found the will to resist—but it was slipping fast.

Eyes, eyes, eyes, everywhere…

“You okay?” Russell asked.

“Huh?” Charmaine snapped out of the trance. She felt as if both men had just undressed her with their eyes. She glanced at them—they were still staring. Russell frowned instead at Sebastiano, deeming him the threat.

“Yeah, I’m okay, sweetie. I’m okay,” Charmaine mumbled.

“You want to talk, Sebastiano? Let’s do it in my office. It’s just below this floor. Darlene, you and your family can order dinner for the suite. I’ll be back soon.”

Sebastiano remained unmoved.

Lucio glared at his brothers, and they knew he was ready to start World War III right there.

“I won’t ask again,” he warned.

Sebastiano exchanged a glance with Domenico, then looked back at Lucio. “I think Raven should stay with Tristan, make sure our guests have everything they need.”

“No!” Darlene snapped. All eyes turned to her. “All of you, get out. I mean it. I protect my family.”

Sebastiano chuckled. Domenico smiled. He flashed a hint of his ruby fangs. Darlene liked that smile, but she held her ground. “You too, cutie. Out.”

“She’s feisty. I like her,” Sebastiano said with a curt nod. “As the lady wishes. Let’s find somewhere a little further than your office. I have a headache.” He laughed, and patted Domenico’s arm as he walked out, the door held open by Raven. Before leaving, Raven gave Charmaine one last lingering glance. Domenico stood there, staring at Darlene, unable to move.

“Draca got your tongue?” Darlene teased.

Domenico opened his mouth to respond, but Lucio cut in. “Move on.” Then, telepathically, he warned Darlene,Don’t test my patience. You know better than to push me.

Don’t boss me around, Lucio. I’m not your pet anymore. You made your choice,she replied aloud, letting everyone hear. Domenico paused at the door, intrigued by her defiance, casting another curious glance her way.

Darlene crossed her arms, rolling her eyes. “Sorry. Just go away, or I’ll misbehave right here, right now.”

Lucio smirked, winked at her, then left with Domenico. Tristan was the last to go. As the door closed, Charmaine let out a deep sigh.

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