Page 133 of Claim of Blood
“I’m open to hosting them,” Adam said. “Oren?”
“Yes,” Oren said simply. “Thank you.”
Gaspard groaned. “Where am I supposed to put them? We’re already at capacity.”
“They’ll have to use someone else’s guest rooms,” Ilona suggested. “Or the underground quarters.”
“I’ll figure something out,” Gaspard muttered, tapping furiously on his tablet.
“Let the New Orleans Court know they’re welcome,” Adam told Ilona. “What about other responses?”
“We’ve received congratulations on your claiming from everyone,” Ilona replied. “Except François’ Court. And the Mother, of course.”
Adam’s expression didn’t change. “Not surprising.”
“The old French prude was never any fun,” Maja grumbled.
Lander smiled slightly. “My parents would agree with that assessment.”
Maja straightened, refocusing on Adam. “About Felix and his research... is this truly a good idea?”
Oren frowned. “It’s a security risk. An unnecessary one.”
“I disagree,” Gaspard countered. “Wouldn’t it be nice to know? We assume so much about our magic... but wouldn’t it be helpful to understand how it actually works?” He looked around the room. “The covens have their grimoires, their histories. Why not vampires?”
“The Coven won’t be happy about this,” Ilona said quietly. “Not with their recent history.”
“It wasn’t the PDC Coven’s history, it was New York’s,” Gaspard countered.
Ilona’s expression darkened. “Carl’s lineage was nearly wiped out when Victoria discovered their research. That’s close enough to home.” She glanced at Adam. “Carl may cause problems.”
Adam was quiet for a moment. “I’ll speak with Emilia and Carl personally before Felix begins anything. Their concerns are understandable.”
“We can always shut him down if necessary,” Lander said, though his face betrayed his discomfort with the idea.
Adam watched Lander carefully, noting his expression. Felix seemed sincere, eager. What Adam didn’t say aloud was the slight pull he felt toward the man. It wasn’t like the pull to Leo, but something was there.
“I’ve made my decision,” Adam said, cutting off further discussion. “Everyone has their duties, and we only have a week.”
“What about movement restrictions for the Court?” Lander asked.
“No mandatory restrictions yet,” Adam replied. “But increase security for anyone who leaves. Double escorts minimum.”
“And Leo?”
“He stays with me. Or you,” Adam said firmly. “The same for Felix. He doesn’t leave the property.”
Maja cleared her throat. “There’s another matter. The Court’s reception to Leo has been... varied.”
Adam’s eyes narrowed. “Explain.”
“They’ve accepted him as your Claim,” Maja said carefully. “But now Felix? And this research? Most have had negative experiences with hunters.”
“Anyone who disagrees can leave,” Adam said, his voice cold.
Maja’s response was surprisingly agreeable. “I’ll personally tell anyone who disagrees to bugger off.”
“Meeting adjourned,” Adam announced. “Lander, stay.”
