Page 74 of Daring Her Vampires
“Luca is outside,” he says, looking at the bedroom door. The open door.
“I love Allie already, but she’s not ready to see me leaking and naked,” I announce, rolling off the side of the bed. Atlas laughs as I swipe clothes off the floor on the way to the bathroom.
After peeing, I brush my teeth while I struggle into jeans. Being with Luca and now Atlas just reinforces our growing bond and my belief that they are meant to be mine. Even though I told Atlas that he has always had a home, I searched for a long time to find my place. I was alone for many years without anyone to rely on, and I was grateful to land among the people here. I’ve had my doubts that they need me. My mates and Allie do need me. Atlas is too serious, and Luca too doubtful. The universe knew they needed my attitude.
I clasp my bra and yank on a shirt. Debating whether I should brush my hair, I decide to leave it alone. It looks like I just had sex, and I like it. There is time before Mara arrives, so I’ll take a shower later.
When I walk into the living room, a spread of food is on the table. Allie is reliving the movie while stuffing bacon in her mouth. Luca catches my gaze. He’s dressed as he was when we met, his suit pristine. Atlas gets up and pulls out the chair at the head of the table.
“Tricks, I thought the flowers came once a week.” Luca holds up a single yellow flower, and I pause, my ass suspended over the chair.
“That’s right.” He waves it, and I notice it’s different from the rest. “That’s never happened,” I whisper.
“What does it mean?” Allie asks. Luca explains, and I don’t follow his words. I sit heavily, unable to look away from it. What could it mean? Dad has never sent more than one a week. Months would go by when I assumed he had lost track of me, but once he found me, they resumed. Once a week. Always on Monday; today is Thursday. I get a nasty feeling in my gut. It’s not right.
“Sally?” Atlas covers my fist. “I don’t like it. He’s fucking with you more than usual. We need to do something about it.”
I swallow harshly. “One psycho at a time,” I mutter.
“It’s not a carnation,” Allie says softly.
“No. I don’t know what it is.” It’s pretty and delicate. Why would he change? Does he know that I met my mates? “Give it to me.” Allie passes it over, and I hold it with a shaky hand. I slowly bring it close, smelling the petals. All I smell is a light scent. I thought maybe my dad’s scent would be attached. Sometimes, I swear I smell him on the carnations.
“It’s a daffodil,” Allie announces, and I lift my gaze.
“What does it mean? They all have a meaning.” My heart pounds as she scrolls through her phone.
“It means new beginnings, joy, and renewal.” She reads more. “It can mean forgiveness,” she finishes softly, setting her phone down.
“It can’t be,” I whisper.
“Baby, don’t assume,” Atlas says.
“We need to find him,” Luca rumbles. “He’s messed with your head for too long.”
“I agree.” I place the flower next to my plate. “We can worry about it later. Everything looks amazing.” I smile at Allie. “I’m starving.”
“Tricks,” Luca says, his eyes filled with rage.
“It’s okay.” I shake my head and relax my hands. Atlas caresses my fingers. “I can’t think about it now. He can’t control me, and I can’t control his actions. Let’s get through the day.” He nods slowly.
“Eat,” Atlas orders, and I ignore the worried looks aimed my way.
“Are you ready for the witch?” I ask Allie as I fill my plate.
“Yes. I’m hopeful she can find him. I’m tired of thinking of the man.” She sits back, sipping her coffee. “I want answers. Why is he obsessed now? He seemed to forget about me. When did he find me?”
“I’m afraid he’s the only one who can answer that,” I say, crunching on a piece of bacon. “Perhaps Mara can answer some.”
“Can my brothers leave him alive long enough when we find him, so I can ask?” She lifts a brow. Luca shrugs and takes a bite.
“That’s a no from Luca,” Atlas says.
“Guys,” she growls.
“I want him dead,” Luca says.
“I know, but can you hold off for a few minutes?” she asks.
