Page 10 of Barely Breathing

“According to Mabel, they are now the ones whocalled it off because we’re socially deficient. They’re accusing us of everything from sabotage, unpaid debts, whispering during the opera.” Astrid’s smile is all teeth. “They want us bleeding from all angles.”

The weight in my chest tightens. More Devine drama. More pressure. “Let them talk. It’s all lies. They can’t prove anything.”

Astrid chuckles wryly. “This isn’t just idle gossip. All eyes are on us. We need to be at our best.”

I nod, as expected. “Of course.”

“Just talk to your vampire. I need a guest list,” she says.

I nod again.

“Now, why does my home smell like a carnival’s unwashed backside?” She saunters off toward the kitchen without another word.

“Bye, mom,” I mumble sarcastically after her. “Thanks for the pep talk.”

Anthony lifts his hand and counts down with his fingers. Before he gets to one, we hear Astrid screech in horror. She starts screaming at the chef about the candy concoctions.

Anthony laughs and hooks his arm around my shoulder, quickly leading me away from the scene. “Don’t worry about our mother. She’s only happy when she’s unhappy.”

“I think she’s sad.” I don’t know what makes me say it. No one would agree with that opinion. Astridis one of the strongest people I know, but her cold demeanor contrasts with subtle moments of vulnerability…real subtle moments. She believes in duty and tradition over emotions. I’ve come to realize that isn’t to say she doesn’t have emotions. They’re just buried under centuries of repression.

“I think your boyfriend drained too much blood. You’re delusional.” Anthony pulls me faster as Astrid’s yelling about dietary plans becomes more intense. We move through the penthouse toward our bedrooms. “You were starting to say you needed my help with something before we were interrupted.”

“Oh, I was just going to ask if Peter was still living in the city,” I answer.

“Peter?” Anthony arches a brow. “Werewolf Peter?”

I nod, trying to ignore the way Draakmar stirs at the mention of werewolves.

“Yeah, he still has an apartment here, but he’s been acting strange lately. Even for a wolf. Why? Are you tired of the vampire already? Want to try a little fur coat instead?” he teases, but there’s tension beneath his humor.

I think about jolting him in the stomach. “I’m not interested in dating Peter.”

“I’m still not going to tell him that. Gotta leave the poor pup some hope.” Anthony grins. “He hadthe biggest crush on you when you were in high school.”

High school was a private tutor. I don’t point that out.

“He practically begged to come home with me at each school break,” Anthony continues.

The last thing I need in my life is another love interest. I’m full up on those.

“You’re not laughing.” Anthony studies me, and I can’t avoid his eyes.

“I’m trying to figure out…” I look at my palm. “Do you remember when we were kids, and you let me hold that fireball?”

“You know I remember that. We were all playing that stupid game, trying to hit Peter with magic. I gave you the fireball, and you took off screaming into the forest. I was sure our parents were going to kill me when they found out. When I caught up to you, Costin had found you.”

“He’s always been there, lurking in the shadows,” I say, still tracing my hand. I can feel the memory of his cool fingers against the burn.

“He and our grandfather were good friends. I never thought about it too much, but I guess looking back, knowing the prophecy of the amulet, it’s not surprising.” He pulls me closer and places his arm over my shoulders. “Who would have thought my baby sister would save the worldfrom a fiery apocalypse? I suppose that’s as good a reason as any for Costin to lurk around. Better than any alternative motives.”

“He was never inappropriate when I was a kid,” I assure Anthony. “I don’t think he wants to like me. I get the sense he’d rather not. I think his promise to help me through the prophecy is the only reason he came around.”

“Don’t sell yourself short. You inherited the Devine charm. You’re a catch. He’s lucky you gave him the time of day.”

I arch a brow at him but don’t comment on his teasing. “I know Costin is dangerous, but I’ve never feared him until...”

“What did he do?” Magic flares around my brother’s hand.

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