Page 30 of Barely Breathing

The pieces are forming a picture I don’t want to see. This isn’t just about Paul or even about me. This is about power—vampire, werewolf, and something older whose name will taste like blood in my mouth.

“Tamara Devine.” Elizabeth’s voice carries acrossthe room like silk slicing against steel. “I’ve been looking forward to meeting you.”

For a moment, I see her as I remember her with short dark hair framed in the moonlight with fangs bearing down on me for the bite as she pins me to the ground. I lean closer to Costin. Then, she’d been looking forward to eating me. Now, she appears like she still wants to devour me. That smile doesn’t fool me.

I’m starting to miss the days when I was regulated to the protected wing of the Devine country estate while the supernaturals partied. How many hours did I dream of escaping? Staring out over the yard from the balcony, longing for a normal life?

I was such a dumbass.

Standing in the party surrounded by supernaturals is much worse, even with protection. I’m hyper-aware of their claws and fangs.

Elizabeth makes a show of gliding toward us. The tight black leather of her clothes feels a little contrived, yet she pulls the supervillain look off quite well. Her movements are too graceful and practiced. As a vampire, she could blur across the room, but instead, she walks. She likes being seen.

Mabel follows behind her, designer heels clicking against the stone. In some ways, she reminds me of Astrid. Only Astrid is pragmatic to Mabel’s tedium.

The werewolves give them a wide berth.

“Elizabeth.” Costin’s grip tightens on my elbow. “When did you get back?”

“Hello, brother,” Elizabeth says. Her gaze fixates on me, and her smile doesn’t reach her eyes. “So nice to see you, too.”

Mabel’s expression doesn’t hide her anger toward me. If anything, she wants me to see it. There is a smugness to her.

“What are you doing here, Elizabeth?” Costin’s tone is far from welcoming.

“I wasn’t aware you wanted approval over my travel itinerary.” Elizabeth waves her hand in dismissal. “If you must know, I was invited by an old, dear friend.”

Costin turns his attention to Thane as the Alpha climbs back onto his throne. The werewolf whistles, and instantly, two women appear next to him. One climbs onto his lap.

“Since when do you hang with wolves?” Costin asks.

I have to admit, it’s good to know he gets that same arrogant, condescending tone with everyone. It’s not just me.

“No, not by Thane,” Elizabeth laughs.

I try not to watch as the Alpha begins making out with the women, kissing one as the other grindsagainst his hips. No one else seems to care. I find it distracting.

And a little arousing.

“You should not be here,” Costin says. “The treaties are too delicate.”

“The Freemonts are old friends.” Elizabeth hardly appears concerned. “Besides, I found their invitation compelling. Did you know they’re proposing changes to the territorial agreements?”

Mabel’s lips curve. “The old ways aren’t serving anyone. Power should be shared more equitably among supernatural factions. Don’t you think?”

Elizabeth grins as if challenging her brother to argue.

Mabel gives me the same look. This isn’t about sharing anything. It’s clear the Freemonts want more power, and she’s making a play to come after my family.

Annoyance floods me like a wave of nausea, and I sense Draakmar doesn’t like these women.

“Careful,” Costin warns, but I hear tension beneath his usual control.

“Or what?” Elizabeth is enjoying herself. Her eyes finally light up. “You’ll add me to your naughty list, Santa?”

“Unlike Mr. Claus, my punishments are very real,” Costin answers.

Elizabeth’s attention turns to me. “I see youbrought your mortal pet. How very progressive of you. Though I suppose she’s not entirely mortal anymore, is she? Not with that particular accessory.”

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