Page 6 of Vampires and Violas

“So, you’re hunting again?”

“I was promoted to a different position.”

“Are you being cryptic on purpose, or are you just trying to annoy me?”

Amused irritation flashes in his eyes, and he finally holds my gaze for more than half a second. “The regional director gave me Reid’s old job.”

“You’re in charge of the investigation department?” I ask, surprised.

“He made me the chief of investigations for the western region, yeah.”

“Noah…that’s a big deal.”

His expression sobers. “It is.”

“So, you have to stay in Denver now?” My mouth is dry, and I wish our server would come get our drink order.

“I can live anywhere in my region. Denver. Phoenix. Salt Lake City.” He clears his throat. “Here.”

“Are you thinking of moving back?” I hold my breath while I wait for him to answer. Which is stupid. Why do I care where the lying vampire lives?

“I thought about coming home,” he admits, studying the pepper again. “My parents were disappointed when I returned to Denver, and Britta is getting married next month.”

I’m silent as I try to untangle my emotions. They’re all over the place.

His frown deepens. “Would it bother you if I moved back?”

“What difference does that make?”

“I don’t want to make you uncomfortable.”

“Glenwood Springs isn’tthatsmall. It’s not like we’re going to bump into each other every day.”

“I’d be working in the administration office.”

“I’ve only been there once.”

He nods, looking like he doesn’t know what else to say.

“You’re on the clinical trial for the daylight drug like Cassian, aren’t you?” I ask, finally broaching the subject that’s sitting like a big fat elephant between us. “That’s why it was so easy to hide your condition from me.”

“I am,” he confirms.

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

He sighs, looking like he doesn’t want to have this conversation. “Because you mentioned several times how unsettling you find final-stage vampires. At first, it didn’t matter, because we had a professional relationship, and to be blunt, it wasn’t any of your business. Then we became friends, and it felt like I missed my chance to tell you.”

I study him for several long seconds, and then I nod. “Okay.”

“Okay?”

“I believe you.”

He exhales. “Piper, I’m so sorry.”

“I know. I just wish?—”

“Hi there,” our server says when she approaches the table. “Sorry about that wait. What can I get you to drink?”

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