Page 18 of Vampires and Violas

“I was changing,” Noah says from the archway between the kitchen and living room. He’s swapped the button-up for a soft, semi-fitted dark gray T-shirt, the slacks for jeans, and ditched the laptop.

My eyes slide over the cottony expanse of his shoulders. I swear they should have their own zip code. And a fan club.

It’s just hormones,I remind myself.Vampire hormones.

Ew.

“Do you want me to light the grill, Piper?” Cassian asks, stepping closer than usual and touching my shoulder.

I eye his hand, suspicious. “That would be great, thanks.”

“Of course,” he answers, practically purring.

I give him a silent look that says, “What’s with you?”

He merely smiles and then turns for the door.

Okay then.

I expect Noah to go outside with him, but Olivia follows Cassian out the French doors that lead to the patio instead, leaving Noah and me alone.

Noah stares at the door they just went through, looking like he’s contemplating something—and not liking whatever it is. Several seconds later, he turns, giving me his full attention.

Silence settles between us, super awkward. And I don’t know why.

“What’s wrong?” I ask, shifting.

“Nothing,” he answers.

More silence.

“Listen, I know things might be a little strange between us for a while,” I say hesitantly. “It’s fine. It’ll go away.”

“What can I do to help?”

I busy myself by taking the steaks out of the fridge. “Nothing. It’s not like we were dating, Noah. We went to a movie and then made out in Cassian’s over-the-top vampire castle. It’s not a big deal, really.”

I scoot him out of my way so I can set down the packages on the island. He shifts to the side and then leans a hip against the counter, staying close.

Too close.

I dare a quick peek, but that’s a mistake. My eyes snag on his smirk.

He quirks a brow. “I meant, how can I help with dinner?”

Oh.

“I know that,” I lie, my answer coming several seconds too late. Then I turn, giving him my full attention. “Why are you acting so weird? You’re freaking me out.”

He exhales, letting his guard down and looking a touch weary. “It was a long day.”

“I imagine it’s hard settling into a new job.”

“People won’t let me work. All they want to do is talk.”

“How awful,” I say dryly.

“One of the conservators said I need a plant for my office.”

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