Page 23 of Surging Reef
“I did.” Ashby placed a hand on the small of his back and steered him away from the crowd. Pharos walked by their side, not looking affected in the least.
“You did what?”
“I packed some clothes and grabbed my laptop. Didn’t get the charger though, but I guess I can buy a new one.” Ashby pushed him into a narrow alley between two buildings, looking around as they went. He didn’t see anyone, but it didn’t mean they weren’t being watched.
“You what?”
Ashby shrugged. “While you kept Anne and the guard busy, I broke in through the bathroom window and packed a bag. It’s in the car.”
Kazimir ground to a halt. “You did what? What if they’d killed me?”
“Well, it’s only fair after you said I kicked you out the moment I shot my load.” He tsked. “Disgraceful.”
“I was in danger.” The outraged tone had Ashby suppressing a smile.
“Nah. It’s me they want, not you, and you did a good job making them believe we aren’t together. I don’t think they suspect you being at the lighthouse.”
“You left me with two deranged vampires.”
Ashby shrugged. “Not many can say they’ve been threatened by a queen.” He picked up Pharos before he pushed Kazimir between two hedge plants, having them cross through a well-kept garden.
“Where the hell are we going?”
“To the car, but we’re taking a little detour. I don’t think we’re being followed, but vampires can be hard to spot sometimes.”
Kazimir swallowed audibly and nodded as he looked around. He didn’t say another word as Ashby guided him through back alleys and gardens until they finally came out about a block away from where the car was parked.
He hit the button on the fob as they rounded the last corner.
“Do you think it’s smart to go home?”
Ashby looked around. “Yeah, as long as no one is watching us right now.” He scanned the roofs of the nearby buildings. “Your house is outside the Waterside territory, so it’s perfect.” He’d have to talk to Hervey Jehan, let him know he was residing in his kingdom, but it could wait another day or two.
“She can’t get us there?”
“Not without risking a war with the Woodland kingdom. I’ll have to let the king know I’m there, though.”
Kazimir opened the backseat door and strapped Pharos in. “Will it be a problem?”
Ashby shrugged. “Let’s get out of here, and we can talk about it when we get home.”
Kazimir nodded and walked around the car to the passenger side. Ashby couldn’t name the feeling welling up inside. He’d called Kazimir’s house home.
* * * *
Kazimir was a weird mix between buzzed and exhausted. They timed rolling into the driveway with Alan fucking Anderson stepping out of his house.
“Ugh, can’t you just eat him?”
Ashby grinned, the tips of his fangs visible underneath his upper lip. “I’d rather eat you.”
Kazimir snorted despite the heat washing over him. “Been there, done that, wouldnotrecommend.” He pushed the door open and stepped out, ignoring Alan fucking Anderson despite him glaring at them. Hey, at least Kazimir was dressed this morning. Alan should be happy.
He walked around the car, unhooked Pharos, and put him on the ground. The moment he let go of him; Ashby grabbed him and pushed him against the car. The full body contact made Kazimir shiver.
“I’d like a redo.” He nuzzled Kazimir’s neck before fastening his lips to the skin and licking him. Kazimir squealed and pushed him while laughing. Ashby was laughing too but pulled him closer again. Kazimir went willingly.
When Ashby pressed his lips against Kazimir’s, hemoaned and opened for him while wrapping his arm around Ashby’s neck.
