Page 32 of Seduction in Blood
Sergi pulled into a long, circular driveway filled with other vehicles dropping off guests—limos, luxury cars, high-end sports models, and an equal amount of what looked like mom cars. But everyone walking up the steps to the mansion sporting several Greek columns was dressed in their finest. After Sergi parked, then opened my door, I glanced at Devon.
His gaze had turned molten as he perused me from head to toe, lingering on my legs and the juncture where they met my short dress. He raised his eyes to skim over my breasts, well hidden behind the silky material, ending at what had to be my stressed expression.
"And what exactly are we hoping to accomplish here?" I tried for a disinterested tone, but I think it was more of a squeak. I was supposed to be his Blood Ward and his lover, but wasn't sure how far he would take the game.
He smiled. "I do have a contact I need to catch up with, and I originally had a plan." He winked. "But now, I think we'll play it by ear."
ChapterSixteen
Devon wrappedan arm around my waist as I exited the limo. Sergi, playing the consummate chauffeur, nodded at both of us before returning to park the limo as if our outings were a typical event.
"Try to relax." Devon's warm breath tickled my ear. To those watching, which were more than I expected, the gesture would appear intimate. Perhaps the whispering words of wicked things he'd do to me later. I shook my head, pushing away the rogue thoughts.
"I'm not used to all the attention," I whispered back.
Devon pushed back strands of my hair and brushed a finger across my cheek. His smile could shatter hearts all over the city.
I smiled in return, hoping it didn't look more like a grimace as we walked up the steps. The evening air was cool, and I tried to shake off the goosebumps. Anxiety replaced the heat that had overwhelmed me earlier. The weather didn't seem to bother the vamps. Dozens of them loitered on the wraparound porch, and though they watched our approach, Devon barely registered them.
Before we entered the main doors, Devon's hand slipped from my waist to around my hip. I clutched my handbag and tried a timid smile. Was that what they expected? No. These were bold people with expansive desires, so once inside, I went for the haughty look my mother always wore at society events.
Devon stopped in the middle of the foyer. Now I understood why so many were on the porch. The place was packed, making the room extremely warm. While Devon scanned the room, I did the same, though I'm sure for different reasons.
"Let's take a walk through the first floor before going upstairs." Devon turned us to the left, heading for double doors that should lead to a large sitting room if the floor plan matched most mansions.
"Upstairs?" I lifted my gaze past the grand staircase bordered by decorative balustrades that seemed more fitting in a hotel.
He lowered his head to whisper in my ear. "It's not exactly what you think, but knowing this particular host, Gruber will have private rooms available on the third floor if you're interested."
I glanced around, refusing to blush. Several couples with straying hands fondled each other while in conversation with others. I turned on my broadest smile, and feeling bold, I squeezed Devon's firm ass. My response must have been unexpected because he seemed caught between shock and interest as his round eyes warmed with a soft blue glow. I thought he might kiss me, his gaze growing with intensity, until someone called his name.
"Devon. I can't believe my eyes."
Devon didn't respond as heat built between us in the jostling crowd. But the presence that stopped next to us drew his attention, and he pulled me closer as I slid my hand to his waist.
"Margo." Devon's tone was reserved, and though the woman's engaging smile didn't falter, something in her eyes flashed. If I'd been alone in a room with her, I'd want that dagger Devon kept insisting I carry.
"It's been years." She didn't seem to notice me as she planted a kiss on his lips and lingered longer than what most would consider polite, even in this sordid gathering.
I reflexively squeezed his waist tighter before realizing what I'd done, and Devon immediately pulled back. Interesting. Had his pulling away been a reaction to my response or just part of the charade? It bothered me that I wasn't sure which it was. And it was silly, of course. But I didn't have more time to ponder as Margo's hawk-like stare gave me the onceover as if I was something cloying that had stuck to Devon on his way in rather than his companion. His Blood Ward.
I stood taller, outwardly undaunted by her cold perusal. When she blinked, I was pleased by my petty win.
Devon pinched my hip lightly, just enough to consider the movement a caution. He didn't have to tell me this woman was dangerous.
"Let me introduce you to Cressa. My Blood Ward."
Margo didn't hold back her surprise. "Really." Her gaze took on a thoughtful expression, sizing me up like a meal rather than competition. Had these two been a thing?
She leaned in, and Devon's brick-like hold refused to let me back away. Was she sniffing me? Wondering if I was the right vintage, like some expensive port?
Her smile turned wicked and seductive. This woman couldn't be what Devon wanted me to emulate. I needed to have a long chat with him, because I was missing part of the playbook.
"It's been a long time since I've taken in a Blood Ward." She ran a hand down my arm, and I wasn't sure what aura I was giving off, but it seemed to entice her. "You are teaching her…everything?" When her hand grazed my breast, I realized what she'd meant, and it was all I could do not to lean toward her.
"Of course." He pulled me away. "But it's too early to be handling the merchandise."
Her laugh was intoxicating, and Devon's words of me being nothing more than a shiny bauble to be auctioned off irritated me. Her scent drew me in, and I must have leaned toward her again because Devon took a step back, pulling me with him.
