Nocturnal Surrender (The Nocturnal Surrender Series Book 1) ePub
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In one vampire’s struggle for redemption, can a mortal woman’s love conquer all or will his recklessness condemn her to death as it did another two centuries before?
After two hundred years in exile, vampire Bastian Evanko has come back to earn his brother's respect and to plot revenge against the vampire who murdered his fiancée, Elise. In The New Sin City, Bastian must fight his rebellious nature and learn to control his impulsiveness. When he asks for a private dance from stripper Darling Nikki, he gets far more than he bargains for—including another chance at love. But is the love of a beautiful woman enough to sate his need for retribution?
Nicole French simply wants to learn how to live in her new town without having a breakdown over the painful memories she hides. Having a man in her life is the last thing she needs. When Bastian asks for a private dance, and to drink her blood, things heat up quickly in the private room with the sexy stranger. The only problem is he likes to pretend he’s a vampire and suck down human blood.
After losing Elise because of his secrets, can Bastian risk bringing Nicole into his life? But, on the other hand, can he pass up another chance at love?
See excerpt and instructions below...
Please ignore the we pay shipping below as there are no physical products, only digital.
After two hundred years in exile, vampire Bastian Evanko has come back to earn his brother's respect and to plot revenge against the vampire who murdered his fiancée, Elise. In The New Sin City, Bastian must fight his rebellious nature and learn to control his impulsiveness. When he asks for a private dance from stripper Darling Nikki, he gets far more than he bargains for—including another chance at love. But is the love of a beautiful woman enough to sate his need for retribution?
Nicole French simply wants to learn how to live in her new town without having a breakdown over the painful memories she hides. Having a man in her life is the last thing she needs. When Bastian asks for a private dance, and to drink her blood, things heat up quickly in the private room with the sexy stranger. The only problem is he likes to pretend he’s a vampire and suck down human blood.
After losing Elise because of his secrets, can Bastian risk bringing Nicole into his life? But, on the other hand, can he pass up another chance at love?
See excerpt and instructions below...
Please ignore the we pay shipping below as there are no physical products, only digital.
Download Instructions
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We hope these instructions prove helpful, and we appreciate your continued support. Happy reading!
We are delighted that you have chosen to download one of our ePub files for your reading pleasure. In order to ensure a seamless experience on your phone or tablet, please follow these simple steps to locate and open the downloaded file.
Once the ePub file is successfully downloaded, navigate to your device's file management application, commonly referred to as "Files" or "My Files." This app allows you to browse and manage all the files stored on your device. Inside the app, look for the "Downloads" folder, where you will find the recently downloaded ePub file.
Upon locating the ePub file, tap on the three vertical dots (⋮) adjacent to the file name. This will open a contextual menu, from which you should select "Open with." A list of compatible applications will appear, allowing you to choose the e-reading app you prefer. If you don't already have an e-reading app installed, we recommend downloading a popular option like Google Play Books, Amazon Kindle, or Apple Books, depending on your device.
Once you have selected the desired app, your ePub file will open, and you can begin enjoying your new digital reading material.
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To help you enjoy a seamless reading experience on your computer, we've provided the following step-by-step instructions to locate and open the downloaded file on your computer.
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Excerpt
Prologue: part 1
England. Two hundred years ago.
He had finally done it. Bastian Evanko had finally shown the mortal woman he loved the vampire within him.
After her shock had subsided, she had allowed his affections, returned them even, until she noticed the blood on his lips. Once she’d realized he had drunk her blood while they were both lost in the haze of desire, her demeanor changed instantly.
Now, he cringed at the disgust radiating from her, and he quickly shut down his ability to feel her emotions.
She wouldn’t even look him in the eye. Not that he blamed her. He had just shown her the monster within.
I never should have fed on her.
He absently licked his lips. The remnants of her sweet blood warmed him to the bone. Her innocence, her untainted heart—at least, untainted before he’d walked into her life—came through in those lingering drops.
His arm trembled when he reached for her. “Please, Elise, look at me. Tell me you still want to be with me.”
Instead of meeting his gaze or taking his hand, she shook her head and stepped back.
Bastian’s heart sank. Overwhelming emptiness roiled in his gut. This couldn’t be happening to him again. Their love should be able to withstand anything.
The urge to grab her, to wrap his arms around her and never let go, swept over him.
Don’t be a bloody fool. Give her time. Do not frighten her more.
A deep breath helped to calm him. Another created a different problem.
The scent of her blood and arousal hung heavy in the air. His cock stirred once more as he remembered how wet she had been for him. How wonderful her tight warmth had felt around his fingers when she’d exploded with pleasure. If only he could have buried his shaft deep inside her.
But he would not take her unless she accepted him completely. Her purity meant the world to him. She deserved to make her decision knowing all the facts, no matter the risk.
Yes, losing her was a possibility—experience had taught him this much. Nearly eight hundred years had given him plenty of opportunities to lose his heart to beautiful women. Too many times his mortal lovers had turned their backs on him in repulsion after learning his secret.
Not this time. Not without a fight.
“Damn it, Elise. I love you. I want to spend our lives together. This is still me.” He moved in front of her and cradled her hand. “I am your Bastian. I’m the same man you have known and loved.”
She raised her head. Her long auburn tresses cascaded over delicate shoulders. Emerald eyes, full of turmoil and confusion, locked onto his. Her rosy lips, swollen and bruised from passion, parted as if to speak, though no words came out. Soft breaths caused a slight rise and fall in her breasts, the silky flesh of her cleavage enticing him.
Bastian groaned, forcing back desire. Innocent women always weakened him because they looked to him as their knight, their savior—until they realized his true nature.
Is it too much to ask to be loved despite what I am?
He had yet to hide his vampiric features, choosing instead to remain in full change, allowing Elise the opportunity to become accustomed to his fangs and silvery eyes. “Please…say something.”
Her voice quivered. “What is this thing you are? Do you…kill people?”
Thing… A stabbing pain tore through his heart.
And the worst question, the one they had all wanted answered. The one he feared most. Why did she have to ask it? He couldn’t admit a murderer lived inside him then endure her reaction. Not yet.
Lowering his gaze, he stroked her slender fingers. “I promise I will tell you what you wish to know, but not now. Let us enjoy each other’s company a while longer.” Before you turn away from me forever. “There will be plenty of time for talking later.”
Bastian pulled her into his arms, and her warmth encompassed him. He tried to ignore her rigid posture. Still, he ran his hands up and down her back, attempting to soothe her, to remind her of who he really was.
After a few moments, she sobbed into his chest. It was easy to see what the shock of his revelation had done to her. Her reactions shifted from one extreme to the other in rapid succession, and they no doubt would continue to do so until she accepted him completely.
He held her closer, kissed the top of her beautiful head, and vowed this time would be different, even if he had to fight to the death to keep the woman he loved. He’d move heaven and hell to convince her of his worth.
Though Elise did not cry for long, her face remained buried in his tear-soaked shirt. Her ragged breaths heated his chest, and his balls tightened in response. Damn, he needed her. Too bad now was not the time for selfishness, but rather for repairing whatever harm had been done.
Bastian had to know where their relationship stood. He delved into her mind. Sifting through her jumbled thoughts, he found what he feared.
I cannot fool myself. He is no longer my Bastian.
The word monster echoed in there, as well. Too many gruesome stories about his kind had been told, the damage done. And he had yet to confirm the fact that he’d killed for sustenance many times—and would again.
His heart raced and he opened himself to her emotions once more. Better to get this over with and not prolong the heartache.
Her anxiety hit him like a horse kick to the chest. He barely held his ground, Elise his only anchor.
He sensed her quaking inside, yet she held herself stiff in his arms. It left no doubt she feared him.
If he wasn’t mistaken, he could have sworn she wanted to expose him for what he was. Somewhere deep down, she questioned his love for her. She thought the devil incapable of such emotions.
This is far worse than I’d imagined. I know what I must do.
She left him with no choice but to steal her away, to try convincing her that he truly loved and cherished her, wanted to be with her forever. That he was no threat to her and her family.
He would make her see that he was still the man she had fallen in love with, even though he was a preternatural killer.
~***~
Elise awoke on a plush bed in a strange room with no memory of arriving there. The last thing she recalled was Bastian pleading with her, but she had been too frightened and repulsed for his words to register.
She sat up and surveyed her surroundings. Large stones formed the walls. Small arched windows allowed the sun to stream in, warming the otherwise chilled room. If she needed to flee, the windows would be of no help since they were barricaded by ominous iron bars. Along the far wall was a closed, oversized wooden door. The only one in the room.
Her heart pounded and her breaths were shallow. She wrapped her arms around herself, trying not to tremble.
Should she scream for help? Run for the door? Was Bastian waiting for her?
Oh Bastian, how could you do this to me?
He had lied to her about his nature, pretended to be human. He’d surely lied about loving her, as well, leading her to believe they had a future.
For years she’d thought the Hunters absurd, chasing after fabled creatures. When her older brother, Jacob, left home and joined them in their quest to destroy vampires, she told him he was silly. Now she worried about his safety and her own.
If only he were there with her, surely he would be able to save--
A series of thunderous knocks broke into her thoughts. She nearly jumped off the bed, and her heart pounded faster.
Bastian’s voice boomed through the barrier. “I am coming in, Elise. Do not be frightened.” The door creaked open, he stepped inside, and then slammed it closed with his foot.
The sound echoed off the stone walls. Elise gritted her teeth in irritation, her nerves already on edge.
His beautiful blue eyes were hidden behind his vampiric features, which were accentuated by his long golden hair, and he carried a food tray. “You must eat something to keep up your strength. This has been too much for you. You are not thinking clearly.” He walked toward the bed and extended his offering, seemingly unconcerned with the sun’s rays.
She inhaled the delicious aroma. Some sort of stew and fresh bread. Her stomach growled. Although she did not want to accept the food, his words rang true. The nourishment would certainly help should she have to escape, but…
What if it is poisoned?
“Poisoned? Do you honestly think I could do such a thing to you? I love you. Why can you not see that?” Bastian sat the tray on the table next to the bed. “And as for escaping, the last thing I want is for you to feel like a prisoner here. I’d hoped you would stay with me until we worked this out, and then forever after, as we had planned.”
For a moment, she could have sworn he meant what he said. The sincerity in his pained voice caused her heart to ache. Maybe she wouldn’t tell Jacob and his fellow Hunters about Bastian.
Forever. The word echoed in her mind. She wanted to reach for him, pretend he was the man she loved, but before she acted on the urge, the look on his face became strained.
His brows furrowed as if he were trying to comprehend something, and he knelt in front of her. “Jacob is a Hunter? Why did you not tell me? This is a dreadful situation, Elise. We must tread lightly on this matter or someone might end up dead.”
She shook her head in confusion. How does he know what I am thinking? Her fists closed tightly around the bed cover. She should have known better than to believe a word he had said.
“You heard my thoughts. You are not human. I cannot trust you.” Tears threatened to fall, but she would not allow herself to appear weak. Jacob had told her these evil monsters fed on fear just like the blood they devoured.
Then she remembered Bastian feeding on her blood. A shiver rolled over her. She rocked back and forth, and the walls closed in again.
He held out a hand and said something, but she could not focus on his words. She had to run.
Her mind spun, and so did the room, yet she summoned the strength to leap from the bed and make a dash for freedom.
In a blur of motion, Bastian crossed in front of her, blocking her progression. Unable to stop in time, she crashed into his chest.
His arms locked around her. She screamed, and his hand clamped over her mouth, muffling her cries.
“Stop this, Elise. What is wrong with you? Have you gone bloody mad?” He dragged her back to the bed.
Though she kicked and struggled to break free, nothing worked. Within seconds, his long and muscular body had her pinned down, his weight making it difficult to breathe.
I am going to die. Silently, she prayed, begging God to either save her from this devil or allow her death to be swift and painless. She also asked for Bastian’s damned soul to find salvation, after the Hunters released it.
When he removed his hand from her mouth, he kissed her. His fangs pierced her lip as his tongue plunged deep in her mouth. It was the same passion he’d shown her before.
Part of her longed to give in and allow him to take her, but when he licked at the drops of blood he had drawn, her stomach churned.
She squirmed beneath him to get away, still he held her firm. She tried to speak, yell, anything, but with her mouth enveloped by his, the sounds died without taking flight.
Before long, his hungry kiss turned gentle. He feathered his lips over hers, barely touching at times—exactly as he used to.
Memories of how loving he had always been filtered through her mind. Her body reacted instinctively to the familiar sensations. Though she tried to fight her longing, she slowly relaxed, occasionally returning his affections.
He slid his hand up her side. His hips moved in a sensual rhythm, pressing his hard shaft against her repeatedly. A tingling sensation swept over her. That familiar rousing stirred in her core, a yearning so deep it begged to be filled. When his fingers skimmed the side of her breast, she gasped and stifled a moan.
Why does he make me feel this way? How can I love him knowing what he is?
This time, she couldn’t stop the tears. Her heart ached, torn between past devotion and current fear of the creature he had revealed to her.
He pulled away and pleaded once again. “Please, Elise. Allow me to love you.”
~***~
Bastian waited patiently for Elise to respond, replaying the events of the last day in his head. He’d hated using his powers on her, but there had been no choice. Planting the suggestion in her mind to sleep the night before had been the best option. She’d needed rest to come to her senses before she did something reckless. His secret had to be kept, and he could not risk the chance she might, out of fear and ignorance, reveal that vampires existed.
The revelation about her brother Jacob made the situation far more tenuous than he’d thought possible. It never ended well for Hunters when they stumbled upon real immortals, rather than the humans they often mistakenly slaughtered.
The poor bastards.
The last thing he wanted was to kill Jacob, but if Elise sent him after Bastian, he would have no choice. Survival meant everything. He hadn’t lived all these centuries to die at the hands of a mortal.
He needed to convince her she was in no danger, and, more importantly, that he truly loved her. Not only could this give him another chance with her, but it would also keep Jacob alive.
When she caressed his cheek, he closed his eyes and leaned into her gentle touch. Some of her apprehension remained, radiating outward, but she was finally close to giving in to him. The sensations he felt from her were palpable. She wanted to believe he was still the man she’d thought. He intended to give her whatever she required to fulfill her wish.
Her fingers slid down to his mouth, and he opened his eyes to meet her emerald gaze. She shifted her focus lower and delicately probed his lips until he parted them. His cock jumped in response to the sensual exploration. He could feel her rising curiosity and allowed her to inspect his fangs.
It is working. She is making peace with what I am.
After she finished, she looked up and trailed her fingertips along his brow. “So strange the way the light makes the silver in your eyes dance, almost glow.” She shook her head as confusion crossed her face. “How can you be out in the daylight? I have seen you in the sun, however briefly. You have eaten food with me on occasion. You wear a cross of silver. I do not understand. What sort of sorcery is this?”
He threaded his fingers through her auburn locks. “My dearest, some tales have been greatly exaggerated.” Largely done by his own kind to fool humans. “But make no mistake, other stories are true. We can be dangerous creatures, though that does not mean I am incapable of love.” He leaned up, clasped her wrist, and placed her palm on his chest. “My heart beats for you. My breaths quicken at your touch. You are my world.”
“How…how are you doing these things? It is unnatural. Vampires are monsters. The undead. Devils without souls. But you…you are still a man. You are still…”
Why did she not speak the words he longed to hear? He would simply say them for her. “I am still your Bastian. I am the same man you have loved.”
She pulled her hand away but quickly moved to brush back his hair, her fingers sliding behind his head. “I want so much for that to be true.”
He shivered at her tender touch. His heart ached to be one with hers again. The pain would be devastating if she turned her back on him and continued looking at him as an inhuman beast. There was no way he could allow that to happen.
He would stay here with her for however long it was necessary to make her believe him.
~***~
It had only taken a few weeks for Bastian to convince Elise of his love. She’d accepted him for what he was, and they had spent much of that time making love and talking about their future. Now, it was time to tell her parents of their plans to marry.
The couple rode in a well-covered carriage on the long journey from his secluded castle to the McNeil cottage. As the carriage bumped along its way, he leaned toward her, brushed her auburn tresses from her face, and kissed her. Lips soft as rose petals met his, her sweet tongue searching his mouth.
After a moment, she pulled away and fanned herself. “I do believe we should calm down. We are almost there, and it will not do to have you overly excited when we arrive.”
Good point, considering it was difficult to hide the vampire within when he became aroused. And heaven knew she could have him hard and full-fanged in seconds. “You are right, my love, as usual.” He captured her hand, raised it to his lips, and then placed a gentle kiss on her lavender-scented skin.
When the carriage came to a halt, he took a deep breath and gritted his teeth. He could do this, especially since he’d pretended to be mortal for nearly eight hundred years. Surely another evening with her family would be simple enough.
The overcast sky was perfect for him, only intermittent slivers of light from the setting sun peeked through the clouds as they walked up the stone path to the cottage. He held her firmly around the waist. She was his now, not theirs.
While courting Elise, he had met her parents on a couple of occasions, but that was before she knew his secret. Everything had changed the minute he showed her his other side. In truth, he had placed his life in her hands, made himself completely vulnerable to win her love for eternity.
Just this one last step then we can move on with our lives.
A strange man greeted them at the door. Bastian quickly delved into his mind then stiffened. Elise’s brother, Jacob. In all his years, Bastian had never faced a Hunter. Jacob had been away when Bastian had visited before. Off on another one of his adventures was how Michael, Elise’s father, had put it.
The hatred radiating from Jacob hit Bastian squarely in the chest. The Hunter met him with a sweeping glance, as if to determine if he was good enough for Elise, and then turned his attention to his sister. He wrenched her from Bastian’s grasp and hugged her tightly, lifting her off her feet momentarily.
After ushering them inside, Jacob grabbed Elise’s hand. “Where have you been? Mother and father were so worried.”
Not giving her time to answer, he led her to a chair in front of the small fire in the open living area, leaving Bastian to follow like a dog. Bastian clenched his fists and fought the anger threatening to make his fangs extend.
His temper had always been his downfall, but this was not the time or place to set it free. And certainly not with a Hunter…in front of Elise and her--
Wait a minute…
He cleared his throat, interrupting the brewing argument between the siblings. “Where are Michael and Rose?”
Elise looked around as if just realizing her parents were nowhere in sight. She stared at Jacob, brows furrowed. “Yes, where are they?”
Jacob softened and knelt before her. “You should have been here, Elise. You should not have gone off with him. If someone had told me before that this was the man you were seeing, I would have warned you of his and his brother’s…how shall I say it…proclivity for using innocent women to fulfill their needs.” He glared at Bastian then turned back to Elise. “Mother and father would still be here if we’d have known you were coming home.”
She shook her head, a look of confusion on her face. “I do not understand. What are you trying to say?”
Jacob stood, dragged a hand through his long red hair, and fixed his green-eyed glare on Bastian. “After they told me the name of the man courting you, I explained all I knew about his bloody family. At first, they were hesitant to believe that the wonderful man they knew was capable of such things, but in time I convinced them. We feared he had kidnapped you. They went searching for you two weeks ago and begged me to stay here in case you returned.”
Bastian cringed as guilt washed over him. He had taken her against her will, but there had been no choice. Once more, his actions seemed to have unexpected consequences.
Facing Elise again, Jacob continued. “I know they started at the Evanko Estate, though I am uncertain of where they went after that.”
Damn it all. Then Donovan knows. Bastian’s relationship with his brother was already strained from years of Bastian’s temper and impulsive behavior. Now that a Hunter was involved, and the risk of exposure existed, Donovan would be watching Bastian’s every move, waiting for a mistake.
Elise clasped Jacob’s hand. “Then there has been no word from them?”
Jacob bowed his head. “None…and they should have been home by now. I tried to convince them to let me and my friends look for you since we are the experts, but they refused to allow another of their children to go missing.” He shook his head and looked up, locking gazes with Elise. “I begged them not to go, reminded them what the Evanko brothers were capable of, but they stormed out of here, hellbent on finding you.”
Bastian’s mind spun. Had Donovan kept them, fed on them, or worse, killed them? Mortals going around asking questions about a vampire were courting trouble. Threats had to be eliminated before things spiraled out of control.
If Bastian left now, with his preternatural speed he could make it to the estate and back before sunrise. Elise and Jacob would have some time to talk until they retired for the night, and although Jacob thought he knew what Bastian and Donovan were, he had no confirmation yet. Leaving Elise with Bastian’s secret, in the company of a Hunter, was a risk, but one he needed to take. He would simply put the suggestion in her mind to not reveal anything about him.
“Elise, my love.” Bastian extended his hand and waited for her to come to him. He wrapped her in his arms, reveling in her warmth. He allowed himself to feel her love for him, but it mixed with the fear rising inside her. Although it was most likely a mistake, he couldn’t bring himself to interfere with her thoughts and control her mind again. “I will go to my brother and see if he knows where else they may have gone. I promise I’ll bring them back to you.” He hoped she would not betray him.
She sobbed into his chest, trembling. “Please…”
There was no need for her to say more. As much as it pained him, he released her and gave her to Jacob. Her brother held her close, stroking her hair, and stared at Bastian.
Bastian nodded and turned to leave. When he stepped outside, thunder boomed across the countryside, and the sky let loose its fury. Rain poured as he ran for what seemed like an eternity, even at his vampiric speed.
By the time he reached the estate, the rain had stopped, and the clouds dispersed, leaving the countryside blanketed in moonlight. Without breaking stride, he leaped the tall iron gate. After landing squarely on his feet, he bolted for the castle.
He nearly ripped off the large wooden door. “Donovan! Where are you, brother?” Why he had allowed such anger to take hold, he was unsure, but Donovan would now face the brunt of his wrath.
Casually, Donovan descended the curved staircase. “Well, well. I wondered when you’d return. I have a present for you.” He smiled, his youthful face accentuated by his long blond hair. “Come, little brother.” Something sinister lurked behind his pale blue eyes.
Bastian stiffened, breathed deeply, and gasped in shock at the mortal scent teasing his nostrils. “They are here? Alive?”
“There is only one way you will find out.”
As he followed his older sibling, Bastian’s heart pounded. Maybe I can still salvage my relationship with Elise if I erase their memories of this place and bring them home quickly.
When Donovan reached for the door to the dungeon, Bastian’s gut tightened. It was where his brother kept his meals. The ones he returned to repeatedly, at least.
Bastian charged at his brother, knocking him against the stone wall. Donovan’s head hit with a thud, and his perfect golden locks became stained with blood.
Donovan laughed. “Is that the best you can do? I will heal before you even find them.”
That was all it took for a rush of heat and anger to envelop Bastian. His fangs extended, his vision narrowed as if he were stalking prey, and he grabbed Donovan by the neck. “You are going to regret this, brother.”
In an instant, Donovan’s vampiric features emerged, eyes a silvery fire. His voice strained. “Come now…what about…” He coughed a few times. “Michael and Rose… Don’t you wish—”
Bastian tightened his grip, and Donovan clutched his brother’s straining forearm, desperately trying to pull it away. After a moment, Donovan gave up and let his arms hang limp at his sides. He stopped breathing, fully allowing the vampire within him to take over. Air no longer a necessity for their kind, only there to fool unsuspecting humans, along with their unneeded heartbeats.
The corner of Donovan’s lips curved upward. “Oh no, you are choking me.” Another mocking laugh rumbled from him.
Bastian cursed and used his free hand to punch the stone next to Donovan’s head. Pieces of rock exploded outward. He tossed Donovan to the ground, dropped to his knees, and landed blow after blow to his brother’s face and torso. Bones cracked under the force of his attack.
At first, Donovan did not fight back, but when Bastian continued his assault, his brother must have realized he’d better defend himself.
Donovan threw him into the wall with preternatural force. Bastian’s side took the full impact, and his ribs snapped. Searing pain ripped through him. He stood, wincing at the effort, and held his aching body.
Before Bastian could move, Donovan stumbled to the door and down the dungeon stairs.
What is he going to do to them?
As his bones healed, Bastian gasped and leaned against the hard wall, breathing heavily. He needed to give himself a moment to recover or he would be of no help to Elise’s parents—especially since it appeared as though Donovan’s sadistic side had emerged. The fire in his eyes, the condescending laughter, the pure glee of tormenting Bastian were all sure signs that the vampire in Donovan had taken over and pushed any compassion to the side.
“Hurry, little brother. You do not want to miss this. It is time you learned your lesson, once and for all.” Donovan’s voice echoed off the high ceiling.
Bloody hell. Bastian stood completely, heart racing. “What lesson would that be?”
“Why, keeping our secret better, of course. Oh, and not getting involved with a Hunter’s sister.”
Bastian slowly made his way to the dungeon. Though no torches were lit, he saw plain as day with his vampiric sight. “I didn’t know Jacob was a Hunter at first. And Elise’s parents have no idea what we are.”
“Ah, so you admit you told Elise, then.” It wasn’t a question. More of an accusation. “I had a feeling when you’d gone missing you were off doing something stupid and reckless again. Glad to know you never fail to disappoint.”
Donovan had no idea Bastian had bought a small castle, with all the land he and Elise could ever want. Was it impulsive to do such before revealing everything to her? Maybe. But over the short time they’d spent there she had grown to love the home.
If not for Donovan interfering with her parents, all would end well.
Hopefully, Bastian could still salvage this situation.
Muffled cries for help came from below. It had to be Elise’s parents. If Donovan spoke so freely in front of them, he surely planned to kill them. Hell, they probably already knew he was a vampire since he had most likely drunk from them.
Remembering his promise to Elise, Bastian prepared for the fight of his life to save Michael and Rose. He couldn’t lose Elise, especially not over something as horrific as this. She would certainly see him as a monster again.
By the time Bastian made his way down to the dungeon, most of his strength had returned. He met near silence in the narrow, musty anteroom. The occasional drip of water seeped through the walls, but beyond that was quiet.
Hunting mode it is then. He closed his eyes and allowed his heightened senses to do their jobs. The faintest scratching noise emanated from behind the door to the left, and a deep breath let him know it came from a human. He also smelled his brother’s blood, as well as a mortal’s.
His pulse quickened. I cannot be too late. He moved and ripped the door from the wall, wood splintering, rock crumbling.
The sickening crack of bones screamed in his ears as Donovan twisted their necks, one of them in each arm. Bastian fell to his knees when the lifeless bodies of Elise’s parents hit the damp ground, their clothes stained crimson. Part of him wanted to cry out in anger, another part simply wanted to cry. Any hope for a life with Elise shattered with their deaths.
He looked up and locked gazes with Donovan, surprised by the sudden empathy in his brother’s eyes.
It was not enough to keep Bastian from taking out his anguish on the other vampire, though.
He flew at his brother with all his strength and speed. Donovan stepped to the side, and Bastian crashed into the wall.
“Bastian, stop. It is over.” Donovan reached out to rest a hand on his shoulder.
Unfortunately, those words were true. The thought of facing Elise, trying to explain why her parents were murdered, took the fight out of him. He slid to the floor and cradled his aching side.
It is my fault. The secret must be kept.
Prologue: part 2
After burying Michael and Rose, Bastian returned to Elise and that damned Hunter. More time had passed than he’d planned, and night had given way to bright daylight. He had ridden in another well-covered carriage to hide from the sunlight as much as possible. Not that it would kill him, but he was already weak from fighting and healing, and the sun would further decrease his strength. He’d soon need blood as it was. More than he could safely drink from Elise—not that she would allow it when she heard what had happened, if he could even bring himself to tell her the awful truth.
The cottage was eerily quiet as he approached. One long, deep breath told him all he needed to know. The scents of at least five distinct mortal males, aside from Jacob, hung heavy in the air.
He was walking into an ambush.
He had to get Elise alone and learn what had happened in his absence. Time wasn't on his side. With the sun shining, he grew weaker by the minute. Fire tore through his body as his hunger increased.
I should have fed on the way.
Although the cottage was more than likely full of Hunters, Bastian swung the creaking door open and walked in.
Jacob glared at him the second he closed the door behind him. No one else was in sight, but there were multiple heartbeats within the house. Worse yet, he sensed Elise’s fear and panic.
"Where are my parents?" Jacob stood behind a large wooden chair, gripping the top, his knuckles white.
Bastian probed his mind.
Jacob hoped to use the spindles of the chair’s back as makeshift stakes since his vampire-killing weapons lay on the other side of the room. Hunters guarded Elise upstairs. But what he found next had him reeling far more than the hunger.
She had betrayed him, given away his secret.
The blow of this revelation nearly knocked him off his feet. He immediately severed his connection with the Hunter’s mind, steadied himself, and clenched his fists. Fighting tears, he eased forward, hoping to lull Jacob into a false sense of security. “I could not find them. I am sorry.”
Jacob lowered his head as waves of sadness rolled off him, and Bastian seized the opportunity to lunge at him, knocking him away from the chair.
Bastian straddled him and held him firm, no matter how much he resisted. “I cannot allow you to live knowing my secret, but I cannot harm you because of Elise. You leave me no choice…”
Although it went against the Code because there was no guarantee of permanence, Bastian had to erase Jacob’s memories of the past few days. Elise had already lost her parents. He would not have her lose her brother, too. Just as he prepared to manipulate Jacob’s mind, the rumble of footsteps announced the others’ approach. At least two pistols clicked, cocked and ready, and one sword swished from its sheath.
Instinct took over, and Bastian’s senses sparked with new life. What little blood remained in his body burned through his veins. He fought the change, breathing deep to calm the beast within so his teeth and eyes remained normal. If he released that side of himself, any of the Hunters who saw him would have to die—Jacob included.
As it was, if the ruling Elders discovered Elise had broken their Code of laws and divulged his secret, she’d be sentenced to death, as well. He had warned her about this. She knew the consequences. How could she have put her life in jeopardy?
If I had implanted the suggestion in her mind to hide the truth, this might have been avoided. But he had hoped to trust her completely, and she had let him down just as much.
Three men rushed into the room, weapons drawn, while Jacob struggled beneath him. That meant two were with Elise.
A lanky blond pointed a pistol directly at Bastian’s head. “Release him, vampire!”
No sudden movements. Bastian raised his hands, stood, and backed into the corner so no one could come at him from behind. “I do not understand. Did you say…vampire?”
Jacob jumped up and locked gazes with Bastian. “Do not play games with us. We know what you are.” He spat at Bastian’s feet. “You defiled my sister in the most heinous ways. You will pay with your life.”
The other gun was now pointed at Bastian’s heart, but unless they were loaded with silver, he had no worries—other than temporary pain—and even then, it would only slow him down some. The rotund Hunter held the sword toward Bastian’s gut. Jacob retrieved his sword and placed the blade at Bastian’s throat.
He hadn’t noticed the sword when he’d entered the cottage. Apparently, the Hunters had learned a new trick. Swords would be their only hope of truly dispatching a vampire, if they had enough strength and could move fast enough to take off his head. Unlikely. But in his weakened state, Bastian questioned his own speed and power.
Just as he prepared to disarm his attackers, a clattering ruckus upstairs grabbed everyone’s attention. All heads turned briefly, and then the Hunters glared at Bastian again.
Worried for Elise, his concentration wavered, and a gunshot echoed in the room. Searing pain ripped through his chest. He instinctively clutched the wound as Jacob attempted to slice into his neck. Luckily, it was nearly impossible to decapitate an immortal without a clean sword swing, unless the attacker was a vampire. A mere human simply did not have the necessary strength.
The slow aching progression of the blade easing into Bastian’s throat afforded him time to push the weapon away. It fell to the ground with a clang. He groaned and fought the urge to double over but could no longer contain the beast within. His vampiric features emerged. He would have to finish the Hunters off since their stares fell upon him.
The Hunters gasped and appeared frozen in astonishment, which gave him the opportunity he needed. He snatched the sword and swiftly beheaded all but Jacob before they blinked.
The heads remained in place for a moment, eyes wide in shock. Arms automatically tried to reach up, but before they moved far, the bodies collapsed. They fell like dominoes, thudding as they hit the floor, the heads rolling in a macabre fashion. Pools of crimson spread and merged, the thick coppery scent sweetening the air.
Not as weak as I thought. To his surprise, the pistol shot had not slowed him down. Definitely not silver. The tingling burn at his neck told him the sword wound was already healing.
He spun and pointed Jacob’s own blade at him, backing him into the wall. Bastian held back a wince from the pain in his chest.
A scream grabbed his attention, and he turned to see Elise running down the stairs with two Hunters behind her.
“No, Bastian. Please don’t hurt him.” The anguish in her voice tugged at his heart.
She stopped at the bottom of the steps, staring at the headless corpses with her mouth dropped open. Slowly, her horrified gaze returned to Bastian. Two more pistols cocked behind her.
With what he had to do next, she would truly know him as a monster.
~***~
Elise’s heart raced, her breathing ragged as she struggled to comprehend the ghastly sights before her. Blood everywhere. Men decapitated. Men she had been talking to about their families not long ago. And Bastian, bleeding, perhaps shot, holding a sword to Jacob.
Her body trembled. She gripped the stair’s railing to steady herself, her knees ready to give way. The room spun around her, and she feared she might pass out.
Someone behind her spoke. “Elise, go back upstairs.”
Her legs were heavy and immovable.
A gurgled sound came from Jacob. “Now, Elise… Go.”
All she could manage was a slight shake of her head. She wouldn’t leave Jacob or Bastian.
She glanced at the carnage once more then faced Bastian. Unable to speak, unsure what to say, she tried to plead with her eyes. To beg for her brother’s life to be spared. To beg forgiveness…
Guilt tore at her heart, and welling tears blurred her vision. If she hadn’t allowed Jacob to drag Bastian’s secret from her by using her fears about their parents, those men would still be alive. Their families would not have to mourn.
No one moved until another shot rang out, and Elise’s heart nearly jumped out of her chest. When Bastian dropped the sword and grasped his neck, her stomach knotted, and her knees buckled. She did her best to follow the commotion that ensued.
Everyone rushed Bastian as he stumbled backward and fell over the small side table. The wood splintered, and Jacob grabbed one of the broken legs.
No, please… “Jacob, no.” Her voice cracked, too weak to be heard.
Except by Bastian.
His silvery gaze locked with hers. She reached out to him from across the room. Blood oozed from his wounds. His skin was paler than normal. He looked like he might die. Her heart sank.
When Jacob moved to plunge the stake into him, she squeezed her eyes shut, unable to watch her brother murder the man she loved.
A loud thud made her eyes snap open. Jacob lay sprawled over another broken table. There was a bloody gash on his forehead, but he seemed otherwise unharmed. Elise turned back to Bastian as he scuffled with the Hunters.
Bastian’s arms clamped around the Hunter she knew as Dominic. Then Bastian kicked the other, Nathanial, backward until the Hunter crashed into the hard stone of the hearth. Nathanial’s head hit with a sickening thump, and his neck twisted at a strange angle. His body fell limp to the floor.
Jacob stood, wobbly on his feet, and hobbled over to where Bastian now lay devouring Dominic’s blood. Bastian’s stare burned into Elise while he fed. Dominic’s body twitched as his life drained away.
Nausea rolled over her, yet she could not look away. Something in Bastian’s eyes called to her. Love and…disappointment. She’d never seen him kill, never wanted to believe him capable, no matter what he had told her. But she could no longer deny his true nature.
Just as Jacob made his way to help Dominic, Bastian stopped drinking, pulled back with blood dripping from his lips, and snapped Dominic’s neck. The cracking of the bones echoed in Elise’s head, and she winced—but she never broke eye contact with Bastian.
The color had returned to his fair skin, and his wounds began to heal. He jumped to his feet and stood face-to-face with Jacob. When she heard the click of a cocking pistol, she glanced to the weapon in Bastian’s hand—pointed directly at her brother’s heart.
Jacob grunted, looked around at his fallen friends, then focused on Bastian once more. “Go ahead vampire. Kill me in front of Elise. She’s already seen you for the monster you are. Why not finish this? I will gladly sacrifice myself if it means my sister will hate you forever.”
For a long moment, no one moved. Then Bastian stepped backward and lowered the gun, and his head.
He is still my Bastian.
Her heart raced, flooded with love for the two men. She no longer cared what Bastian was or what he had done. At least, she tried to convince herself of this.
Just don’t look at the bodies.
She took a deep breath and let it out with a sigh. The worst was over. Surely, neither man would harm the other, even if only for her.
But after Bastian dropped the pistol, Jacob yanked a stake from under his shirt and plunged it into Bastian’s chest before he could defend himself.
“No!” She scrambled to her feet and ran to his side as he collapsed. “Bastian…”
His hand clutched the stake, but he didn’t move otherwise. He wasn’t breathing. His eyes were open, and he eventually blinked.
Thank God, he is still alive.
She turned to Jacob, tears streaming down her face. “How could you… I love him.”
Jacob spread his arms wide, motioning toward the dreadful scene surrounding them. “Don’t you see what he did? How can you love something so evil? He is not human, Elise. You must accept this.”
She didn’t look. Instead, she wiped her eyes and begged. “Please, Jacob. Help him… For me.” Returning her attention to Bastian, she brushed the tangled golden locks from his face, his empty stare fixed on the ceiling. “Bastian, look at me. What can we do? I cannot lose you.” When he didn’t respond, she trembled as she reached for his free hand and lowered her head. “I love you. I am so sorry. I never meant—”
The clang of a sword made her turn to Jacob. Bastian tightened his fingers around hers and groaned. When she looked back to him, he eased the wooden weapon out of his chest, his expression pained.
By the time the stake was removed, Jacob stood over him, sword drawn. “Move, Elise. Let me end this.”
Was he mad? Did he honestly think she would allow him to kill Bastian?
She positioned herself between the men, draping her body over Bastian’s, shielding his neck with her own.
His ragged breaths fell upon her throat. His arms wrapped around her. His voice a mere whisper. “I forgive you, my love. Please forgive me, as well.”
He kissed her neck, rolled her off him, and leapt to his feet. In a blur of movement, he grabbed the sword from Jacob and took off his head.
“No!” She turned away from the gruesome sight as her body quaked in shock.
~***~
Elise’s cry cut through Bastian’s heart, but he’d had no choice. If he hadn’t dispatched all the Hunters, Jacob included, after they had seen his true self, he could face death when the Elders found out. As it was, he had to find a way to save Elise from their wrath.
Maybe if they ran, hid from the Elders’ Enforcers, he could protect her. She might hate him, but at least she’d be alive.
With all that had happened, the Enforcers would soon be after Elise. Somehow, the Elders always knew of infractions almost immediately.
He stared at the massacre he’d left in his wake. Blood and bodies littered the room. Elise sat with her arms wrapped around herself, rocking back and forth, a blank stare on her face.
His chest ached where the stake had been, but it hurt even more for her.
After kneeling beside her, he took her in his arms. Surprisingly, she did not resist. He calmed the vampire within by breathing in her sweet, lavender perfume. The pressure of his eyes and fangs shifting back was more intense than normal, most likely from the fight—his wounds still healing.
He needed more blood to replenish what he’d lost, but Elise would never understand if he fed on a corpse. And drinking from her was not an option, especially now.
She did not respond to the world around her. In her mind, he found a jumbled mess. Her emotions were numb. She continued rocking, making no sounds, not even crying. He kissed the top of her head and stroked her hair. Losing her brother had obviously been more than she could handle.
Arms trembling from concern, he lifted her then carried her to the sofa. He sat, placing her on his lap, and cradled her. “Elise, please say something.”
Still no response.
Bastian shuddered. What if she never comes out of this? What if she is lost inside her mind forever?
After living for so many years, he’d had plenty of opportunities to see the effects of trauma. The thought of Elise spending the rest of her life catatonic sent a chill through him.
No. If it came down to that, he would turn her and pray it somehow reversed her condition.
But he was letting his imagination run amok. He had to focus to save her.
With another deep breath, he attempted to clear his mind, but the savory scent of blood in the room punched his stomach. He needed to feed more or he wouldn’t have the strength to get them to safety.
He eased Elise off his lap and laid her down as he stood, making sure she faced away from the bodies so she didn’t see what he was about to do.
The Hunter by the hearth was the only one who hadn’t already lost most of his blood. Bastian lifted the corpse into his arms. The man’s head lay at an odd angle, but it left a tantalizing spot open to Bastian. His fangs ached as they descended, his wounds stinging and burning as they continued to heal. One glance to ensure Elise had not moved and Bastian bit into the Hunter’s neck.
The still-warm blood made its way through Bastian’s body, easing his nerves and pain. As he drank, his wounds finished healing. By the time he released the body and it thudded to the floor, he was good as new, but he still had to figure out how to help Elise.
He also had to find a way to avoid the Elders’ wrath, if that were even possible. He’d have to burn the cottage, and the bodies within, to the ground, leaving no trace of what had happened.
~***~
When a few days had passed and Elise hadn’t come out of the stupor she’d succumbed to, Bastian was left with no choice but to go to Donovan for help. He had done his best to make her drink, but she took no food, and her human body appeared to be shutting down. As darkness fell, he loaded her into a carriage and left behind his new castle and land—and possibly their hopes for the future.
He rode through the night, guiding the horses over the moonlit countryside, taking care to make the trip as smooth as possible. Elise deserved as much comfort as he could provide. He believed the outside world still impressed itself upon her, though no signs in her mind or body pointed to this.
The risk of going to the Evanko Estate was grave now that the Elders most likely knew Elise had inadvertently told her vampire Hunter brother about Bastian, but he would protect Elise even if he had to sacrifice his life to do so.
As the mist spread across the landscape, he tried again to pull something tangible from her thoughts. All he found were distant memories flashing in and out. Nothing of the last few days, and nothing of the time he’d spent with her. It was as if she had never met him. Like their love had never existed.
Her mind was a cliff at the end of a long, flowering field. Her life existed blissfully until right before they had met then came the sheer drop at the edge where their relationship should have been. All they were to each other, all they had shared, erased. Blocked out. Gone.
Guilt washed over him. If he’d never brought her into his world, her perfect life would have remained intact, her parents and brother alive, her illusions in place. Monsters would only exist in nightmares.
Her numbness filled him and relieved his anguish. He rode on in a daze until he reached the castle gates and guided the carriage through. They were wide open and welcoming, summoning him in as if Donovan awaited his return. Odd, though nothing else appeared out of order.
After carrying Elise inside, Bastian called out for Donovan, but his brother did not reply.
Probably out hunting.
He took Elise into the parlor and placed her gently on the sofa. Stroking her hair, he leaned in and kissed her lips. No response. Once more, he allowed himself to feel the full breadth of her existence, her lack of emotions, her dizzying memories, her body’s weakness--
A tingling sensation rolled up his spine, alerting him that something was wrong, but by the time he pulled back from her consciousness, it was too late.
He turned to find Donovan and his friend Christof, along with a strange woman, standing just inside the doorway.
Donovan’s brows furrowed. “Why did you come here? You should have known they would be looking for you. For her.”
Christof and the woman approached slowly.
Bastian looked to Donovan. “They who? The Enforcers?”
Donovan merely lowered his head and backed up a few steps. “I am sorry, brother.” Then he left the room.
The woman stood behind the sofa, her gaze trailing over Elise.
Christof touched Bastian’s arm. “You need to move and let us do our job.”
Bastian’s mind reeled. What job? “What are you talking about?”
“I am an Enforcer now, and this is Lenora. She is an Enforcer, as well.” He nodded toward the woman.
Stumbling backward, shocked at this revelation, Bastian reached for the chair to steady himself. No. This cannot be. When had Christof become one of the Elders’ Enforcers? Bastian had not seen him in a century or more, nearly forgotten he existed.
What did they plan to do with Elise? “You must not harm her. She is no longer a threat to us. Her mind has slipped into madness. I fear she may never come back to this world.”
“Then it is of no consequence that we follow through with her punishment.” Christof looked to Lenora. “Take her to the dungeon.”
When the woman moved to pick up Elise, Bastian darted toward her. Christof cut him off, grabbing Bastian and slamming him to the ground.
Bastian’s heart thundered. He caught a glimpse of Lenora heading out of the room, Elise lifeless in her arms.
A surge of anger burned through his veins, and he jumped up then tossed Christof into the bookshelves. Books rained down upon the Enforcer, and Bastian took the opportunity to bolt out the door.
Donovan blocked the way to the dungeon. “No, brother. You must not interfere or you will pay with your life. You know how this works.”
“I do not expect you to step in and risk death, but you are bloody mad if you think I will stand by while they kill Elise.” Bastian pushed his brother out of the way and flew down the stairs.
Footsteps followed him, but he kept running until he came to the room where Elise’s parents had recently been murdered. Elise lay on the damp floor, Lenora standing over her with a sword.
An inner strength Bastian had never known before took over, and he dashed in front of the woman, snatched the sword from her, and knocked her into the wall. She crashed into the stone and lost her footing.
Christof’s voice echoed in the small room. “Stop this, Bastian, for your brother’s sake. Do not make us kill you.”
The bastard grabbed him from behind and wrenched away the sword. Bastian spun around to take Christof down, but something sharp jabbed into his arm. He looked to see a needle full of silver. Christof emptied it into him before he could react.
The liquid poisoned him immediately, rushing through his body in a trail of white heat. His head and limbs grew heavy. He stumbled to keep his balance and swung blindly at Christof, though in vain. He fell to his knees, reaching for Elise.
Christof moved in, sword in hand, as Lenora rose, a sickening grin on her face. Bastian scrambled along the floor, but he might as well have been crawling through quicksand. His arms gave out, and he lay splayed on his stomach, gaze fixed upon Elise.
A glint of torchlight flickered on the blade as it came down. He could no longer make out anything aside from Elise and that damned sword, as if it floated in the air of its own accord. He groaned, trying to move, but his body did not respond.
The blade sliced through her delicate neck as if it were paper.
Bastian tried to scream, but his world went black.
He’d eventually awoke in the Elders’ dungeon, and it hadn’t taken long for them to sentence him to death for trying to stop the Enforcers from carrying out Elise’s execution. He had been locked up and drugged with silver, but now he sat before them, listening to his fate being sealed. Not that he cared to live without Elise.
His heart ached. Images of her murder had been imprinted upon his brain. Her decapitation, her blood pooling around him before he lost consciousness. She’d been helpless to defend herself, and he had let her down.
He rested his head in his hands, still reeling from the remaining poison in his system. The conversation in the room turned to mumbled background noise. After a deep breath, he looked up and realized Donovan was pleading with the Elders.
“Please, I know it is within your power to grant me the opportunity to take responsibility for my brother. To ensure he will follow the Code from now on.” He knelt before the dais on which they sat. “I beseech you.”
Akori, the Elders’ leader, stood, the black hood of his robe hiding most of his face. “You would take the oath? Put your life on the line to save this traitor?”
Donovan bowed his head. “Yes.”
Bastian tried to tell his brother to stop, but his mouth was too dry to form the words. He licked at his lips and swallowed the lump in his throat, then made another attempt. A wheeze was all that escaped his lips. A puff of air ignored by everyone in the room.
It was as if the Elders were controlling him so he could not speak to defend himself or his brother.
The five Elders looked back and forth amongst themselves, nodding, apparently communicating telepathically.
What in the bloody hell gives them the right to play gods?
Everyone in the room turned and glared at Bastian, including Christof and Lenora. He’d forgotten he could not shield his thoughts from the others with silver in his body.
Akori looked back to Donovan. “Are you certain this is what you wish? I believe it is foolish.”
“He is my brother. I must. He has this life because of me. He is my responsibility.” Donovan stood, but still bowed his head in reverence.
“So be it, then.” Akori lowered his hood and his black eyes shined like onyx in the candlelight, his skin far paler than a normal vampire’s. “We hereby decree Bastian Evanko will spend two hundred years in exile, during which time Donovan Evanko will be held guilty for any indiscretion or violation Bastian may commit. Both will be sentenced as one. Both die if Bastian breaks the Code. Do you swear your oath to this, Donovan?”
Donovan did not hesitate, and his conviction came through with his unwavering tone. “Yes. I swear. My life with his.”
The room fell silent. Bastian tried to comprehend all he’d heard. What type of exile did they mean? Two hundred years? He shivered.
Akori dismissed the other Elders and motioned for Christof and Lenora to come to him. After Akori spoke with the Enforcers, they walked over to Bastian, picked him up under the arms, and dragged him back to his cell. Donovan followed behind.
Once there, they dropped him to the cold floor and slammed the door closed.
Christof leaned against the bars. “Tomorrow you will be put on a ship to the new world—both of you. There, Bastian must live in isolation from our kind, and from mortals, and may feed only upon the blood of animals.”
Turning to Donovan, he continued. “You will be given all the freedoms you have here, but make no mistake, it is a savage and uncivilized place. Your life will not be easy. And if he breaks the Code, the Elders will know. They have eyes everywhere.” He walked over to Donovan and rested a hand on his shoulder. “Please, my friend. It is not too late to change your mind.”
Donovan returned the gesture. “I cannot. He is here because of me. If only I’d handled things differently…”
Christof grunted then looked to Bastian and spat at the cell. “I hope you are happy. Now Donovan shall die when you fall again. It is only a matter of time.” He faced Lenora. “Come.”
The Enforcers left, and Donovan turned to Bastian. “Forgive me, brother. I had no idea she meant so much to you. You know how I am when it comes to protecting our secret, not that this is an excuse...” He paced as if he were the one in a cage. “We will find a way to make it through the years ahead.”
“That is easy for you to say. You are not the one who will have to live completely alone—with nothing but visions of seeing the woman you love beheaded while you were helpless to do a thing to save her.” Bastian’s voice was weak, just like his aching heart.
Donovan stepped to the cell door, grasped the bars with both hands, and lowered his gaze. “I know I cannot undo what has happened, but you must know I love you. And I am truly sorry.” He raised his head. “I have put my life on the line as way of apology, and to show you I believe you can change—even after all these years. I will be there for you when your sentence is over. Please, Bastian, do not let me down.”
After a few moments of Bastian’s silence, Donovan sighed, moved to put out the torch lamp that hung from the ceiling, and went on his way.
Bastian leaned against the damp wall, unsure if he could honor his brother. Even in his debilitated state, all he wanted was to avenge Elise’s death.
To kill that bastard of an Enforcer.
Maybe he would simply use the next two hundred years to plan his retribution.
Chapter One
Pennsylvania, USA. Present day.
This wasn’t the homecoming Bastian Evanko had hoped for after two hundred years in exile. Getting berated by his brother only served as a reminder of how strained their relationship had always been. Apparently, the time apart had done nothing to mend old wounds.
So much for starting over.
Donovan paced behind his mahogany desk, blond hair falling perfectly down the back of his expensive suit. “You shouldn’t be here. You know better. This city is no good for you, not with your past.”
Bastian gripped the wooden armrests of the pretentious-looking chair where Donovan had commanded him to sit. “My sentence is over. I will come and go as I please now. Spending the last two centuries in isolation was almost more than I could take.” He loosened his hold when the wood cracked. If he turned the chair into kindling, he’d never hear the end of it.
A point Donovan confirmed when he stopped and glared. “You’d better not destroy my office, little brother. The last thing we need is a repeat of what happened—”
“Oh, please. How long are you going to keep bringing that up?” Bastian clenched his fists and stood, nearly knocking the fucking chair backward. So what if he’d turned much of their home into rubble after one of their many arguments centuries ago? “And stop calling me little brother. The fact that you’re two years older than me makes no difference after nearly a millennium.”
In an instant, Donovan moved to face Bastian. His brother’s eyes turned silver and his fangs extended. “Do not think to challenge me, little brother. As long as I have to keep cleaning up your messes, I’ll call you whatever I damn well please.” He waved a dismissive hand and returned to his desk, eyes reverting to their usual pale blue as his fangs receded. The monster within was hidden behind his baby face once more. No one would ever suspect a murderous creature lurked beneath that innocent façade.
With a deep breath, Bastian sucked in the amped-up vampiric testosterone saturating the air. The tension between them was suffocating, and the next move rested on his shoulders. He could take the all-too-familiar road of trying to prove himself with a physical display and allow the powder keg to once again explode, or…
“You’re right. I have made many mistakes, but you also know I’ve done nothing wrong since you stood up for me with the Elders and convinced them to spare my life.” Not entirely true, but as long as no one knew how Bastian had disobeyed the Elders from time to time during his exile, he wasn’t about to admit anything. Hand extended, he crossed the room and stopped a respectable distance away from his brother. “Please, Donovan, let’s put the past behind us and move forward. How can I make amends if you won’t give me the opportunity?”
There was silence except for the ticking of the large antique clock on the bookcase. Soundproof walls allowed in nothing from the nightclub beyond the office door, or from the bustling city outside.
Donovan glanced at Bastian’s proffered hand then locked gazes with him. His brother’s expression was unreadable.
For a moment, Bastian wished vampires weren’t able to shield their thoughts and emotions from each other, unless their scents happened to give the latter away.
Unfortunately, Donovan’s didn’t.
Bastian’s shoulders stiffened. A few more seconds of being ignored and he would lose the tenuous grasp he had on his temper.
In the past, he would have blown by now—verbally and physically—without regard for the consequences. His poor impulse control had created a rift between him and Donovan long ago, far before the events that led to Bastian’s exile. He never did anything right in his brother’s eyes, resulting in far too many years of Donovan’s condescending attitude. But Bastian wanted his brother to see he was different now, and the only way for that to happen was to fight the anger.
Pressure built in his gums. His fangs ached to descend. Swallowing hard, he licked his teeth.
Still normal, but not for long.
With a nod, Donovan finally accepted his hand. “Okay, I concede. Looks like you might have really changed this time.” He immediately stood and pulled Bastian in for a hug, landing a hard smack on his back. “It’s good to have you here, little brother.”
Jaw clenched at those words, Bastian returned the show of affection with an equally powerful blow.
A few blood-infused drinks and half an hour later, Donovan gave Bastian a tour of his club.
Nocturnal Surrender sat in the middle of the Langsville Strip, flanked by a casino and a hotel. The New Sin City truly lived up to its name, and just as they had in Las Vegas, vampires had capitalized on the sin aspect.
Bastian surveyed the club and its patrons. Every vamp in the room had silver eyes and extended fangs—no need to hide since it was supposed to be fake. Unsuspecting humans, including timid tourists who looked out of place, became meals for immortals. He held in a chuckle when he noticed a few mortals wearing various shades of vampiric contacts. Some even had artificial fangs.
Hard rock music blared from hidden speakers. Candles flickered on tables and shelves, adding a contrasting old-world ambiance. Gothic arches framed the doorways.
He inhaled deeply, drawing in the wondrous scent that permeated the open room.
Blood.
Dizziness swept over him. The urge to feed punched him hard, leaving him winded. Thankfully, he was already vamped out, enjoying the ability to be himself in his brother’s club.
But it had been two centuries since he’d been allowed to feed from humans. Living on the blood of animals had created a meager, disgusting life he wanted to bury in the past.
Yes, on his way to Langsville, he had gorged himself on human blood whenever possible, knowing full well it was the only way he’d be able to adjust and fit back in with this new society.
He’d rarely been able to feed without killing since coming out of exile. Very little self-control at all in that area after all this time. He hadn’t faulted himself, though. What vampire could come back from such torture and not drain people dry at first?
He would get it under control soon enough. He shut down his breathing to keep the temptation at bay, but the hunger raged on, refusing to die just as Bastian had over the last two hundred years.
Donovan’s voice droned on about his business. Bastian’s ears rang. Between his brother, the music, and the patrons’ talking he felt he might go mad.
He hadn’t been around so many people, so much stimuli…ever. Even before his exile there simply wasn’t this much noise and life in one confined space anywhere, at least not that he had been exposed to.
He needed more blood to take the edge off before he did something to land him back in front of the Elders, his life once more on the line. “Another drink, Donovan?” He tried to keep the hunger from coming through in his voice. “I’m afraid all this activity has my brain buzzing.”
His brother turned to him, concern etched on his features. He took Bastian’s face in his hands, examined him for a few long seconds, and finally released him. “This is exactly what I was afraid of. This city is not the place for you so soon. Come.” Donovan led the way to the bar and ordered them a few more drinks, Surrender Style, which apparently meant they were infused with blood. “Make it a double shot this time.”
The bartender nodded, adding extra blood to the mix.
Bastian grabbed the glass and gulped it down. He set the glass down with a thud, motioned for a refill, and chugged it too. His head slowly cleared, and the hunger subsided. For now.
Donovan gave him another once-over. “Feeling better?”
Bastian couldn’t tell if his brother actually cared or just didn’t want a massacre in his club. “I’m good, thanks. I have it under control, obviously, or else I would have slaughtered all the humans in here by now.”
His brother didn’t look convinced. “Still, I think I’ll be keeping my eye on you. Come…there is more to see.” He really did like telling Bastian what to do.
When Donovan finished showing him around, they sat in one of the many crimson-colored booths.
The Nightclub with a Bite. Bastian had to laugh at the sign behind the bar, its dramatic lettering exaggerated by fang-like projections. He looked to Donovan and raised his glass. “I’ve got to commend you. Opening a sanguinarian nightclub was a stroke of genius.”
“Amazing, isn’t it? Just like the blood houses of old but with all the modern conveniences.” Donovan rested a hand on his brother’s back.
Warmth spread through Bastian at the loving touch. It had been many centuries since Donovan yielded any real compassion. Could this be the new beginning Bastian had hoped for all these years? Would he finally be deemed worthy, good enough, and not a screw up? Would he no longer be considered a scourge on the Evanko name?
When Donovan pulled away, a cold and empty spot remained where his palm had been, not unlike the one that had been left in Bastian’s heart long ago. The first time, after Donovan turned his back on him when it became clear Bastian would live by his own rules and not the Elders’ Code. The second, when that bastard of an Enforcer, Christof Rosenbaum, murdered the woman he loved.
Bastian had tried to save Elise after she’d been sentenced to death for revealing the fact vampires existed. That had made him a traitor to his kind, and the Elders’ wrath had landed squarely on his shoulders.
Two hundred years.
If he hadn’t released his glass, he would have pulverized it. His body tensed. With his focus on the anger, the ability to conceal his thoughts and emotions slipped.
Concern came through in Donovan’s voice. “What’s wrong now? Are you all right?”
No, he wasn’t. He hadn’t been all right for too many years, but he needed to regain his composure if he wanted Donovan’s trust. He closed his eyes and took an extended breath, pulling in the comforting mortal scents that dragged away the anger. Even if it kicked and screamed to stay, and even if the hunger surged again.
Now was not the time for reopening old wounds. Revenge on the asshole who had denied him a life with Elise could come later.
It would come later.
“What are you thinking? You cannot go after him. He owns half this city, and you know he is one of my friends.” Donovan’s words were a stake to the heart.
Bastian’s eyes snapped open. He glared at the vampire beside him. “How could you still be friends with him after what he did to Elise? I watched him behead her. I was too weak from the silver he’d pumped into me to save her.” His gut knotted and a wave of nausea rolled over him at thought of that image, which had been burned into his memory for eternity.
He leaned forward, placed his elbows on the table, and cradled his aching head in his hands, fighting back the tears he swore he wouldn’t shed until Rosenbaum paid for her death.
He hated knowing that Elise’s last lucid memories were of him murdering her brother, but he’d had no choice. The Hunter had intended to kill him, wouldn’t have stopped until one of them was dead. If Elise hadn’t thrown herself on top of Bastian when Jacob had staked him, the Hunter would have beheaded him.
After Bastian pulled out the makeshift stake, he’d had no choice but to kill Jacob while Elise watched in horror.
Donovan’s gentle touch returned. Bastian flinched, unable to allow himself to be soothed when he’d been betrayed by his own flesh and blood again.
“Bastian, I know you were devastated, but it wasn’t Christof’s fault. He had to follow orders. And as much as it pains you, the blame lies with Elise. If she wouldn’t have broken the Code, she might still be with you today.” Donovan moved his hand away and sighed. “Besides, Christof retired from the Enforcers long ago. He passed his post on to his friend, Alexander Mitchell. If you’re planning on staying in town for any length of time, you will run into them. They are both regulars here.”
A cold chill swept over Bastian. How could his brother be so cavalier about Elise’s death? Vampire or not, he had to have some emotion left.
The urge to get up, toss the table across the room, knock Donovan to the floor, and pound his face overtook Bastian. Bones crushing under the onslaught would be a relief, just as it had in the past, no matter how temporary the injuries.
Donovan may have been the older brother, but Bastian was larger and stronger. The only reason Donovan ever prevailed was his ability to control his temper. Bastian had always been a loose cannon, which had been his downfall many times. But no longer. He’d vowed to take back his life, and if that meant playing civil with the Enforcers then so be it. For now.
He sat up and took one last deep breath in an attempt to release his anger and shield his thoughts and emotions. It only half worked as another round of hunger racked his body. He shut down his breathing once more. “You’re right. I meant it when I said I wanted to leave the past behind and move forward.” At least partially. “I can’t hold onto this forever. It’s been eating me alive for far too long. But I will never be friendly with Rosenbaum, or any Enforcer.”
“I’m not asking for friendly, only a truce, even if it is an uneasy one. The Elders won’t hesitate to reinstate your original death sentence if you break their laws again, and I don’t want to lose you.” Donovan took a long drink of bourbon before looking back to his brother. “I have an idea of how we can blow off some steam and lighten the mood, assuming you can keep your hunger—and attitude—in check. You up for it?”
“Depends on what it is.” Bastian finished his beer in one swig. “And yes, I can control myself. So what’s the plan?”
A huge grin played along Donovan’s baby face. “You just have to trust me, little brother. I promise it will be worth it.”
Chapter Two
Club Delacroix couldn’t have been more different than Nocturnal Surrender. Dance music blasted while bright lights illuminated scantily clad waiters and waitresses. Instead of a dark and brooding atmosphere, the room exuded cheer, accented with shouts from the patrons watching strippers glide provocatively across the stage.
Bastian’s head bobbed in time with the nearest dancer’s breasts. “This was a great idea. I think I’m in love.” So long as he didn’t breathe, the hunger retreated, replaced by another desire that had gone too long unattended.
Donovan’s voice tensed. “Not with that one. She belongs to Kade. One wrong move and you’ll be on the chopping block again.”
“Telling me she belonged to Kade was warning enough.”
Kade Delacroix was not a vampire to cross. Even in isolated exile Bastian had heard of the club owner’s reputation. Kade would surely turn him over to the Elders for even the slightest infraction.
Bastian’s focus quickly shifted back to the women and their lack of wardrobe. “I’m not crazy about redheads anyway.” He tried forgetting that Elise had been a fiery redhead. “Maybe I’ll go for a brunette instead.”
He scanned the stage, targeting a coy little thing at the far end with his preternatural vision. Long dark curls cascaded down to caress her ample cleavage, her breasts clad in black lace. He inspected lower to find the same delicate treatment covering her delicious pussy. When she turned to make love to one of the poles, her tight ass flexed around the floss of the G-string. His cock stirred instantly.
She spun and raised her arms over her head, grasping the metal between her slender hands, stroking it, her back tight against the pole. Her nerves didn’t show, but he sensed her fear. He couldn’t help delving into her mind to find out more.
Though she worked the stage like a pro, she was actually new to the job and the city. To Bastian’s surprise, she believed she wasn’t attractive enough to make a living this way. She radiated pain, but he couldn’t put his finger on its source.
Always a sucker for a damsel in distress, he had to learn more about her. “Do you think you can get Kade to introduce me to that one?” He pointed just as she released her sumptuous tits from the restriction of the lacey bra. If he’d been sitting in front of her, the garment might have landed on him instead of the lanky geek wearing glasses.
Donovan shook his head. “I don’t think you’re ready for that, little brother. A lap dance in a private room… Are you certain you won’t tear into her throat?”
Bastian had no choice but to prove he could do this. He wanted his brother’s trust, needed his admiration for once in his miserable life. If he could pull this off, Donovan would have no choice but to admit Bastian was a changed man now. His brother didn’t need to know how far from the truth that really was, though.
If he failed, if he drained the beauty of her sad life, he would admit defeat and leave Langsville—and his brother—behind.
He breathed in slowly, allowing the delicious human aroma to stir the hunger just enough until he tamped it down by focusing on his arousal for that one stunning mortal. “See, completely in control.” He only hoped Donovan didn’t notice his clenched fists at his sides and the tension in his body from fighting his vampiric impulses and the bloodlust.
“If you screw this up, it will be the last time I put my neck on the line for you. Do you understand? Kade takes his employees’ safety seriously. They may not be marked, but it is a well-known fact that they are under his protection. Meaning—”
“I understand what it means. If I harm the woman, I will be back in front of the Elders by morning, and my original death sentence will be enforced.” That little tidbit did change things, but he could do this. He had to do this. Maybe more to prove it to himself than to Donovan.
His brother’s fingers clamped onto his shoulder. “As will mine, little brother. Do not forget my life is tied to yours because of the deal I made with the Elders to save your sorry ass.” Donovan would surely hold that over him for eternity.
Bastian gritted his teeth. “I will ensure both our sorry asses survive.” He rested his hand on Donovan’s shoulder. “I need this, brother. Do you have any idea how long it has been since I’ve had the pleasure of a woman?” Granted, some of his indiscretions over the years of his sentence had been in the arms of women, but nobody needed to know those details.
It had still been far too long. The tightness in his jeans served as a painful reminder.
“Just so you know, that’s not how Kade runs things. These girls can get frisky with you, but they are not expected to perform or get paid for sexual favors. It is entirely up to her if she chooses to do so.” Donovan eyed the petite brunette as she exited the stage. “I wouldn’t have picked her to be your type. She seems too tame for you. I guess you are different now.” He knocked back his bourbon. “Give me a minute and I’ll see what I can do.”
~***~
Nicole French sat in front of the long mirror in the dressing room of Club Delacroix, trying to summon the courage for her next routine. Many of the dancers carried on conversations as they primped and changed, but their words didn’t register. The whole thing was surreal and--
Kade’s voice echoed in the expansive room, cutting through the din. “Nikki, darling, I have a customer who would like a private dance. He asked for you specifically. You must have made quite an impression.”
Nicole jumped back in her seat. Her heart stammered, her breath catching in her chest. Hesitantly, she turned to face her boss.
Tall and fit, but not overly muscular, he emanated power. He was an alpha male if she’d ever seen one. People normally cowered when he came near, and now she had the urge to do so herself.
His Gothic appearance had freaked her out from day one, which was only last week. With that long black hair and goatee, not to mention those glowing amber eyes and freakishly white skin, he could pass for one of those crazies over at Nocturnal Surrender who thinks he’s a vampire.
She trembled but somehow held it together. “Yes, Mr. Delacroix. Is there anything in particular he asked for?”
“Do you remember what I told you during training, that sometimes customers from Nocturnal Surrender may come here and want special services?”
Swallowing hard, she forced herself to speak. “Yes, but—” She bit back the hesitation. This was her job. If she refused, if she had to find another place to work, she might end up in the seedier side of town, doing even worse things to make ends meet. For what she was paid she could let someone bite her and drink her blood, couldn’t she? A shudder tore through her, still she smiled. “Okay, I’d love to meet him and…entertain him.”
“Good. His name is Bastian Evanko, and he’ll be waiting for you in room three. If you have any questions beforehand, just ask one of the more experienced girls. Oh, and don’t forget to take a break afterward if you feel lightheaded at all.” Kade smiled wide then walked away.
She was dizzy already, and she faced a pale version of herself in the mirror—almost as light as her boss. No way could she follow through with this. Worst case scenario, she’d be fired and have to beg her parents to let her move back home. She winced at the thought, especially at her age, but it was better than the alternative of selling her body to make money.
Ginger sauntered over as she pulled on her robe, face flushed slightly from coming off stage. “The first time’s always the hardest. Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it soon enough. You might even enjoy it a little. Those sanguinarians are pretty damn hot most of the time, and they usually tip well.”
Nicole took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “I…I don’t think I can do this. A lap dance is one thing, but to…” She shuddered. “Isn’t it creepy that these guys do this?”
“Guys and girls.” Ginger ran her slender fingers through her long red locks and winked as if she liked the idea. “Sure, I thought it was weird at first, too, but you’ll see. They’re just like the rest of us, only with the kink of getting off by drinking blood.”
Nicole would have laughed if that statement hadn’t scared the hell out of her. Maybe she should have stayed home on the farm, went to nursing school, and settled down with Lucas Simmons—and had lots of babies—like her parents wanted. But no, she had to move to the opposite side of Pennsylvania so she could go to the best law school in the state.
Worse yet, she’d found out quickly the only way to make ends meet in such an expensive city was to work in a place like this. She had almost lost her small apartment from working at a local grocery store and only making minimum wage. It was either Club Delacroix or worse if she wanted to prove to her parents that she could survive out here and finish college.
Yeah, as if she’d ever make it as a lawyer when she hated arguing any point, no matter how important. Better get used to letting strange men—and women—drink her blood.
She forced a smile and thanked Ginger for the advice then went to meet her first bloodsucking customer. Unfortunately, it was a short walk to the private room where the hulking man waited for her.
At least he was good looking, but his size terrified her. Bulging biceps threatened to rip the sleeves of his blue T-shirt. Judging by those massive thighs, his jeans might split apart at any moment. The guy was all muscle, the body-builder type, and he looked to be nearly a foot taller than her. A man like that could easily force himself on her.
Thank goodness they monitor these rooms.
But it was his silver contacts and prosthetic fangs that made her heart race. What kind of weirdo did this sort of thing? Did he really believe he was a vampire? Did he need psychiatric help?
Remember what Ginger said. It’s only a fetish.
There was nothing to worry about. She’d heard stories of all sorts of strange sexual behaviors. In truth, this happened to be a tame one in comparison.
She put on her performance smile, and with her best sex-kitten voice, she cooed, “What would you like, Mr. Evanko?” She skimmed her fingers up and down his shirt, momentarily enthralled by the rippling abs underneath. “I’m all yours.”
He seized her wrist in a vice-like grip. “For starters, you can call me Bastian. Only my brother, Donovan, goes by Mr. Evanko.” Slowly, he moved her hand lower, stopping at his waistline. “Why don’t you tease me a little?”
Crap, he’s related to Donovan. That revelation hit her like a blow to the chest. Although his name had sounded familiar, she hadn’t put the pieces together before. This customer was the sibling of her boss’s best friend. Just what she needed. More pressure. Why did he have to pick her out of all the girls? She was the least experienced, and way out of her league with a guy like him.
Bastian cleared his throat, and she snapped her head up to meet his silvery gaze. When he spoke, the tenderness in his voice surprised her. “Don’t worry. I know you’re new here. I’m a patient man, and my looks can be deceiving. Think of me as a big teddy bear.”
Grizzly was more like it.
He loosened his hold, and she dipped her fingers into his pants, wiggling them against the soft patch of hair. She’d done this part a few times before, with normal customers, so she could do it again. Sadly, she had already become accustomed to this part of the job.
She pulled up his shirt with her other hand and played along the washboard she’d revealed. Like a rock. The thought piqued her curiosity. She glanced down and noticed something else was hard. Has to be painful in those tight jeans.
“Ah, that’s it. A little lower.” A groan rumbled out of him. His body tensed, as if fighting his own reaction to her touch. Still, his voice was velvety smooth. “Do you like what you see?”
“Mmhmm.” Yes, she had to play along to make the customer happy, but something about him did appeal to her. Licking her lips, she reached farther until her fingertips brushed his erection. “You really turn me on. I love a muscular man.”
At least that much was true. And his cologne smelled good, woodsy and clean. Long sandy hair framed his chiseled face, accentuating the strong angles.
I can do this. Play around with him a little and nothing else.
Even though the don’t-touch-unless-invited policy didn’t apply in the private rooms, at least sex wasn’t part of the services offered. Although a few of the girls admitted to doing more in these rooms, she didn’t have to if she didn’t want to. No matter how much larger the tips were, she wouldn’t subject herself to that.
Could’ve been worse. She might have ended up with some dirty old man reeking of cigar smoke. Sure, Bastian Evanko liked to pretend he was a vampire and drink human blood—she nearly cringed—but he was decent to look at as long as she ignored the eyes and teeth. If she were completely honest with herself, he was quite sexy.
Another quick touch inside his pants, and he shuddered.
“Do you like that, Bastian?” She slid her other hand down to play with his belt.
He clamped onto her shoulders with his thick fingers, clearly needing to steady himself. “You have no idea how much. It helps to know you’re attracted to me, too.”
Yeah, if she’d only met him under different circumstances, and if he wasn’t paying her for a lap dance, among other things. But she didn’t want to think about the blood or she’d never follow through.
“I can tell you’re nervous. It’s okay. I promise I’ll make this as good for you as it is for me.” He caressed her cheek and tilted her head up to meet his gaze. “Why don’t you let me have a little taste to break the ice, and then you can dance for me before I drink more?”
A shiver rolled over her. There was no holding it back.
This is too crazy.
She yanked her hand out of his jeans and stumbled backward. The room spun, the walls seemed to close in, and heat spread through her body. For a minute, she feared she might pass out. The seductive background music suddenly thundered in her ears and the low lighting dimmed further.
She leaned against the dance pole and reached behind for support. Her heart threatened to jump out of her chest, and her rapid breaths were shallow.
This hadn’t happened to her in a long time. She’d gotten over her panic attacks years ago. But this one slammed into her full force. A few more seconds and she would hyperventilate.
Muscular arms encompassed her. “It’s all right, Nikki. I’ve got you.” Bastian lifted her, and she released the pole then latched onto his neck. “That’s it, you’re fine. Everything will be okay.”
She squeezed her eyes closed to keep the room from spinning and gave herself over to him. Under any other circumstance she would never allow a stranger to do this, but something about him comforted her. Maybe it was the soothing quality of his deep voice, or his protective and powerful embrace. Whatever the case, she didn’t open her eyes until she was on the couch, sitting sideways on his lap.
Her anxiety had lessened in those few seconds, but some dizziness remained until her breathing steadied and she regained her composure. Now she wished there weren’t cameras in these rooms. She’d surely be fired for this. No matter how understanding Bastian was, Kade ran the place with an iron fist. He would never put up with a stripper having a meltdown on a customer—and with an Evanko, no less.
Bastian rubbed circles on her back as she clung to him, shaking slightly. Maybe he was just a big teddy bear.
“Why are you here? It’s obvious this isn’t the right career for you.” Bastian’s compassionate tone and gentle caresses made Nicole believe he actually cared.
“I…I can do this, but I need a minute.”
He looked into her eyes. “I know you can. The problem is you don’t want to. Why take a job like this?”
“There’s no other way to afford living here and paying for college, at least not without compromising all my values.” She hated how cliché that sounded, but she’d truly had no choice. Working at a grocery store obviously hadn’t cut it, and she wasn’t qualified to do anything else. The circumstances of the past had put her farther behind in the career department than most twenty-four year olds.
Finally, her heart rate returned to normal. “I’m sorry. I understand if you want to stop. I’ll find you another dancer.”
“That won’t be necessary.” This time, his voice had a sinister undertone. “It has to be you. I can’t explain why.”
She tried to get up, but he wouldn’t release her. One arm clamped around her waist held her immobile while the other hand pushed her hair off her shoulder, leaving it exposed except for the thin strap of her bra. Smooth fingers glided along her skin, sending a chill through her. When they came to rest on her neck, she noticed his gaze had focused there, as well.
The panic stirred again, but she held it back. If anything went wrong, the bouncers would rush in. Safety always came first at Delacroix. It had been drilled into all the employees’ heads.
Then why didn’t she believe it now? And why had her opinion of Bastian changed so fast? The look in his eyes, however much she could tell with those contacts, went from caring to lethal in an instant.
Her body tensed. She wanted to scream, but what if her inexperience made the situation seem worse than it really was?
Maybe she could salvage her job if she played her cards right.
One bite might not be so bad.
England. Two hundred years ago.
He had finally done it. Bastian Evanko had finally shown the mortal woman he loved the vampire within him.
After her shock had subsided, she had allowed his affections, returned them even, until she noticed the blood on his lips. Once she’d realized he had drunk her blood while they were both lost in the haze of desire, her demeanor changed instantly.
Now, he cringed at the disgust radiating from her, and he quickly shut down his ability to feel her emotions.
She wouldn’t even look him in the eye. Not that he blamed her. He had just shown her the monster within.
I never should have fed on her.
He absently licked his lips. The remnants of her sweet blood warmed him to the bone. Her innocence, her untainted heart—at least, untainted before he’d walked into her life—came through in those lingering drops.
His arm trembled when he reached for her. “Please, Elise, look at me. Tell me you still want to be with me.”
Instead of meeting his gaze or taking his hand, she shook her head and stepped back.
Bastian’s heart sank. Overwhelming emptiness roiled in his gut. This couldn’t be happening to him again. Their love should be able to withstand anything.
The urge to grab her, to wrap his arms around her and never let go, swept over him.
Don’t be a bloody fool. Give her time. Do not frighten her more.
A deep breath helped to calm him. Another created a different problem.
The scent of her blood and arousal hung heavy in the air. His cock stirred once more as he remembered how wet she had been for him. How wonderful her tight warmth had felt around his fingers when she’d exploded with pleasure. If only he could have buried his shaft deep inside her.
But he would not take her unless she accepted him completely. Her purity meant the world to him. She deserved to make her decision knowing all the facts, no matter the risk.
Yes, losing her was a possibility—experience had taught him this much. Nearly eight hundred years had given him plenty of opportunities to lose his heart to beautiful women. Too many times his mortal lovers had turned their backs on him in repulsion after learning his secret.
Not this time. Not without a fight.
“Damn it, Elise. I love you. I want to spend our lives together. This is still me.” He moved in front of her and cradled her hand. “I am your Bastian. I’m the same man you have known and loved.”
She raised her head. Her long auburn tresses cascaded over delicate shoulders. Emerald eyes, full of turmoil and confusion, locked onto his. Her rosy lips, swollen and bruised from passion, parted as if to speak, though no words came out. Soft breaths caused a slight rise and fall in her breasts, the silky flesh of her cleavage enticing him.
Bastian groaned, forcing back desire. Innocent women always weakened him because they looked to him as their knight, their savior—until they realized his true nature.
Is it too much to ask to be loved despite what I am?
He had yet to hide his vampiric features, choosing instead to remain in full change, allowing Elise the opportunity to become accustomed to his fangs and silvery eyes. “Please…say something.”
Her voice quivered. “What is this thing you are? Do you…kill people?”
Thing… A stabbing pain tore through his heart.
And the worst question, the one they had all wanted answered. The one he feared most. Why did she have to ask it? He couldn’t admit a murderer lived inside him then endure her reaction. Not yet.
Lowering his gaze, he stroked her slender fingers. “I promise I will tell you what you wish to know, but not now. Let us enjoy each other’s company a while longer.” Before you turn away from me forever. “There will be plenty of time for talking later.”
Bastian pulled her into his arms, and her warmth encompassed him. He tried to ignore her rigid posture. Still, he ran his hands up and down her back, attempting to soothe her, to remind her of who he really was.
After a few moments, she sobbed into his chest. It was easy to see what the shock of his revelation had done to her. Her reactions shifted from one extreme to the other in rapid succession, and they no doubt would continue to do so until she accepted him completely.
He held her closer, kissed the top of her beautiful head, and vowed this time would be different, even if he had to fight to the death to keep the woman he loved. He’d move heaven and hell to convince her of his worth.
Though Elise did not cry for long, her face remained buried in his tear-soaked shirt. Her ragged breaths heated his chest, and his balls tightened in response. Damn, he needed her. Too bad now was not the time for selfishness, but rather for repairing whatever harm had been done.
Bastian had to know where their relationship stood. He delved into her mind. Sifting through her jumbled thoughts, he found what he feared.
I cannot fool myself. He is no longer my Bastian.
The word monster echoed in there, as well. Too many gruesome stories about his kind had been told, the damage done. And he had yet to confirm the fact that he’d killed for sustenance many times—and would again.
His heart raced and he opened himself to her emotions once more. Better to get this over with and not prolong the heartache.
Her anxiety hit him like a horse kick to the chest. He barely held his ground, Elise his only anchor.
He sensed her quaking inside, yet she held herself stiff in his arms. It left no doubt she feared him.
If he wasn’t mistaken, he could have sworn she wanted to expose him for what he was. Somewhere deep down, she questioned his love for her. She thought the devil incapable of such emotions.
This is far worse than I’d imagined. I know what I must do.
She left him with no choice but to steal her away, to try convincing her that he truly loved and cherished her, wanted to be with her forever. That he was no threat to her and her family.
He would make her see that he was still the man she had fallen in love with, even though he was a preternatural killer.
~***~
Elise awoke on a plush bed in a strange room with no memory of arriving there. The last thing she recalled was Bastian pleading with her, but she had been too frightened and repulsed for his words to register.
She sat up and surveyed her surroundings. Large stones formed the walls. Small arched windows allowed the sun to stream in, warming the otherwise chilled room. If she needed to flee, the windows would be of no help since they were barricaded by ominous iron bars. Along the far wall was a closed, oversized wooden door. The only one in the room.
Her heart pounded and her breaths were shallow. She wrapped her arms around herself, trying not to tremble.
Should she scream for help? Run for the door? Was Bastian waiting for her?
Oh Bastian, how could you do this to me?
He had lied to her about his nature, pretended to be human. He’d surely lied about loving her, as well, leading her to believe they had a future.
For years she’d thought the Hunters absurd, chasing after fabled creatures. When her older brother, Jacob, left home and joined them in their quest to destroy vampires, she told him he was silly. Now she worried about his safety and her own.
If only he were there with her, surely he would be able to save--
A series of thunderous knocks broke into her thoughts. She nearly jumped off the bed, and her heart pounded faster.
Bastian’s voice boomed through the barrier. “I am coming in, Elise. Do not be frightened.” The door creaked open, he stepped inside, and then slammed it closed with his foot.
The sound echoed off the stone walls. Elise gritted her teeth in irritation, her nerves already on edge.
His beautiful blue eyes were hidden behind his vampiric features, which were accentuated by his long golden hair, and he carried a food tray. “You must eat something to keep up your strength. This has been too much for you. You are not thinking clearly.” He walked toward the bed and extended his offering, seemingly unconcerned with the sun’s rays.
She inhaled the delicious aroma. Some sort of stew and fresh bread. Her stomach growled. Although she did not want to accept the food, his words rang true. The nourishment would certainly help should she have to escape, but…
What if it is poisoned?
“Poisoned? Do you honestly think I could do such a thing to you? I love you. Why can you not see that?” Bastian sat the tray on the table next to the bed. “And as for escaping, the last thing I want is for you to feel like a prisoner here. I’d hoped you would stay with me until we worked this out, and then forever after, as we had planned.”
For a moment, she could have sworn he meant what he said. The sincerity in his pained voice caused her heart to ache. Maybe she wouldn’t tell Jacob and his fellow Hunters about Bastian.
Forever. The word echoed in her mind. She wanted to reach for him, pretend he was the man she loved, but before she acted on the urge, the look on his face became strained.
His brows furrowed as if he were trying to comprehend something, and he knelt in front of her. “Jacob is a Hunter? Why did you not tell me? This is a dreadful situation, Elise. We must tread lightly on this matter or someone might end up dead.”
She shook her head in confusion. How does he know what I am thinking? Her fists closed tightly around the bed cover. She should have known better than to believe a word he had said.
“You heard my thoughts. You are not human. I cannot trust you.” Tears threatened to fall, but she would not allow herself to appear weak. Jacob had told her these evil monsters fed on fear just like the blood they devoured.
Then she remembered Bastian feeding on her blood. A shiver rolled over her. She rocked back and forth, and the walls closed in again.
He held out a hand and said something, but she could not focus on his words. She had to run.
Her mind spun, and so did the room, yet she summoned the strength to leap from the bed and make a dash for freedom.
In a blur of motion, Bastian crossed in front of her, blocking her progression. Unable to stop in time, she crashed into his chest.
His arms locked around her. She screamed, and his hand clamped over her mouth, muffling her cries.
“Stop this, Elise. What is wrong with you? Have you gone bloody mad?” He dragged her back to the bed.
Though she kicked and struggled to break free, nothing worked. Within seconds, his long and muscular body had her pinned down, his weight making it difficult to breathe.
I am going to die. Silently, she prayed, begging God to either save her from this devil or allow her death to be swift and painless. She also asked for Bastian’s damned soul to find salvation, after the Hunters released it.
When he removed his hand from her mouth, he kissed her. His fangs pierced her lip as his tongue plunged deep in her mouth. It was the same passion he’d shown her before.
Part of her longed to give in and allow him to take her, but when he licked at the drops of blood he had drawn, her stomach churned.
She squirmed beneath him to get away, still he held her firm. She tried to speak, yell, anything, but with her mouth enveloped by his, the sounds died without taking flight.
Before long, his hungry kiss turned gentle. He feathered his lips over hers, barely touching at times—exactly as he used to.
Memories of how loving he had always been filtered through her mind. Her body reacted instinctively to the familiar sensations. Though she tried to fight her longing, she slowly relaxed, occasionally returning his affections.
He slid his hand up her side. His hips moved in a sensual rhythm, pressing his hard shaft against her repeatedly. A tingling sensation swept over her. That familiar rousing stirred in her core, a yearning so deep it begged to be filled. When his fingers skimmed the side of her breast, she gasped and stifled a moan.
Why does he make me feel this way? How can I love him knowing what he is?
This time, she couldn’t stop the tears. Her heart ached, torn between past devotion and current fear of the creature he had revealed to her.
He pulled away and pleaded once again. “Please, Elise. Allow me to love you.”
~***~
Bastian waited patiently for Elise to respond, replaying the events of the last day in his head. He’d hated using his powers on her, but there had been no choice. Planting the suggestion in her mind to sleep the night before had been the best option. She’d needed rest to come to her senses before she did something reckless. His secret had to be kept, and he could not risk the chance she might, out of fear and ignorance, reveal that vampires existed.
The revelation about her brother Jacob made the situation far more tenuous than he’d thought possible. It never ended well for Hunters when they stumbled upon real immortals, rather than the humans they often mistakenly slaughtered.
The poor bastards.
The last thing he wanted was to kill Jacob, but if Elise sent him after Bastian, he would have no choice. Survival meant everything. He hadn’t lived all these centuries to die at the hands of a mortal.
He needed to convince her she was in no danger, and, more importantly, that he truly loved her. Not only could this give him another chance with her, but it would also keep Jacob alive.
When she caressed his cheek, he closed his eyes and leaned into her gentle touch. Some of her apprehension remained, radiating outward, but she was finally close to giving in to him. The sensations he felt from her were palpable. She wanted to believe he was still the man she’d thought. He intended to give her whatever she required to fulfill her wish.
Her fingers slid down to his mouth, and he opened his eyes to meet her emerald gaze. She shifted her focus lower and delicately probed his lips until he parted them. His cock jumped in response to the sensual exploration. He could feel her rising curiosity and allowed her to inspect his fangs.
It is working. She is making peace with what I am.
After she finished, she looked up and trailed her fingertips along his brow. “So strange the way the light makes the silver in your eyes dance, almost glow.” She shook her head as confusion crossed her face. “How can you be out in the daylight? I have seen you in the sun, however briefly. You have eaten food with me on occasion. You wear a cross of silver. I do not understand. What sort of sorcery is this?”
He threaded his fingers through her auburn locks. “My dearest, some tales have been greatly exaggerated.” Largely done by his own kind to fool humans. “But make no mistake, other stories are true. We can be dangerous creatures, though that does not mean I am incapable of love.” He leaned up, clasped her wrist, and placed her palm on his chest. “My heart beats for you. My breaths quicken at your touch. You are my world.”
“How…how are you doing these things? It is unnatural. Vampires are monsters. The undead. Devils without souls. But you…you are still a man. You are still…”
Why did she not speak the words he longed to hear? He would simply say them for her. “I am still your Bastian. I am the same man you have loved.”
She pulled her hand away but quickly moved to brush back his hair, her fingers sliding behind his head. “I want so much for that to be true.”
He shivered at her tender touch. His heart ached to be one with hers again. The pain would be devastating if she turned her back on him and continued looking at him as an inhuman beast. There was no way he could allow that to happen.
He would stay here with her for however long it was necessary to make her believe him.
~***~
It had only taken a few weeks for Bastian to convince Elise of his love. She’d accepted him for what he was, and they had spent much of that time making love and talking about their future. Now, it was time to tell her parents of their plans to marry.
The couple rode in a well-covered carriage on the long journey from his secluded castle to the McNeil cottage. As the carriage bumped along its way, he leaned toward her, brushed her auburn tresses from her face, and kissed her. Lips soft as rose petals met his, her sweet tongue searching his mouth.
After a moment, she pulled away and fanned herself. “I do believe we should calm down. We are almost there, and it will not do to have you overly excited when we arrive.”
Good point, considering it was difficult to hide the vampire within when he became aroused. And heaven knew she could have him hard and full-fanged in seconds. “You are right, my love, as usual.” He captured her hand, raised it to his lips, and then placed a gentle kiss on her lavender-scented skin.
When the carriage came to a halt, he took a deep breath and gritted his teeth. He could do this, especially since he’d pretended to be mortal for nearly eight hundred years. Surely another evening with her family would be simple enough.
The overcast sky was perfect for him, only intermittent slivers of light from the setting sun peeked through the clouds as they walked up the stone path to the cottage. He held her firmly around the waist. She was his now, not theirs.
While courting Elise, he had met her parents on a couple of occasions, but that was before she knew his secret. Everything had changed the minute he showed her his other side. In truth, he had placed his life in her hands, made himself completely vulnerable to win her love for eternity.
Just this one last step then we can move on with our lives.
A strange man greeted them at the door. Bastian quickly delved into his mind then stiffened. Elise’s brother, Jacob. In all his years, Bastian had never faced a Hunter. Jacob had been away when Bastian had visited before. Off on another one of his adventures was how Michael, Elise’s father, had put it.
The hatred radiating from Jacob hit Bastian squarely in the chest. The Hunter met him with a sweeping glance, as if to determine if he was good enough for Elise, and then turned his attention to his sister. He wrenched her from Bastian’s grasp and hugged her tightly, lifting her off her feet momentarily.
After ushering them inside, Jacob grabbed Elise’s hand. “Where have you been? Mother and father were so worried.”
Not giving her time to answer, he led her to a chair in front of the small fire in the open living area, leaving Bastian to follow like a dog. Bastian clenched his fists and fought the anger threatening to make his fangs extend.
His temper had always been his downfall, but this was not the time or place to set it free. And certainly not with a Hunter…in front of Elise and her--
Wait a minute…
He cleared his throat, interrupting the brewing argument between the siblings. “Where are Michael and Rose?”
Elise looked around as if just realizing her parents were nowhere in sight. She stared at Jacob, brows furrowed. “Yes, where are they?”
Jacob softened and knelt before her. “You should have been here, Elise. You should not have gone off with him. If someone had told me before that this was the man you were seeing, I would have warned you of his and his brother’s…how shall I say it…proclivity for using innocent women to fulfill their needs.” He glared at Bastian then turned back to Elise. “Mother and father would still be here if we’d have known you were coming home.”
She shook her head, a look of confusion on her face. “I do not understand. What are you trying to say?”
Jacob stood, dragged a hand through his long red hair, and fixed his green-eyed glare on Bastian. “After they told me the name of the man courting you, I explained all I knew about his bloody family. At first, they were hesitant to believe that the wonderful man they knew was capable of such things, but in time I convinced them. We feared he had kidnapped you. They went searching for you two weeks ago and begged me to stay here in case you returned.”
Bastian cringed as guilt washed over him. He had taken her against her will, but there had been no choice. Once more, his actions seemed to have unexpected consequences.
Facing Elise again, Jacob continued. “I know they started at the Evanko Estate, though I am uncertain of where they went after that.”
Damn it all. Then Donovan knows. Bastian’s relationship with his brother was already strained from years of Bastian’s temper and impulsive behavior. Now that a Hunter was involved, and the risk of exposure existed, Donovan would be watching Bastian’s every move, waiting for a mistake.
Elise clasped Jacob’s hand. “Then there has been no word from them?”
Jacob bowed his head. “None…and they should have been home by now. I tried to convince them to let me and my friends look for you since we are the experts, but they refused to allow another of their children to go missing.” He shook his head and looked up, locking gazes with Elise. “I begged them not to go, reminded them what the Evanko brothers were capable of, but they stormed out of here, hellbent on finding you.”
Bastian’s mind spun. Had Donovan kept them, fed on them, or worse, killed them? Mortals going around asking questions about a vampire were courting trouble. Threats had to be eliminated before things spiraled out of control.
If Bastian left now, with his preternatural speed he could make it to the estate and back before sunrise. Elise and Jacob would have some time to talk until they retired for the night, and although Jacob thought he knew what Bastian and Donovan were, he had no confirmation yet. Leaving Elise with Bastian’s secret, in the company of a Hunter, was a risk, but one he needed to take. He would simply put the suggestion in her mind to not reveal anything about him.
“Elise, my love.” Bastian extended his hand and waited for her to come to him. He wrapped her in his arms, reveling in her warmth. He allowed himself to feel her love for him, but it mixed with the fear rising inside her. Although it was most likely a mistake, he couldn’t bring himself to interfere with her thoughts and control her mind again. “I will go to my brother and see if he knows where else they may have gone. I promise I’ll bring them back to you.” He hoped she would not betray him.
She sobbed into his chest, trembling. “Please…”
There was no need for her to say more. As much as it pained him, he released her and gave her to Jacob. Her brother held her close, stroking her hair, and stared at Bastian.
Bastian nodded and turned to leave. When he stepped outside, thunder boomed across the countryside, and the sky let loose its fury. Rain poured as he ran for what seemed like an eternity, even at his vampiric speed.
By the time he reached the estate, the rain had stopped, and the clouds dispersed, leaving the countryside blanketed in moonlight. Without breaking stride, he leaped the tall iron gate. After landing squarely on his feet, he bolted for the castle.
He nearly ripped off the large wooden door. “Donovan! Where are you, brother?” Why he had allowed such anger to take hold, he was unsure, but Donovan would now face the brunt of his wrath.
Casually, Donovan descended the curved staircase. “Well, well. I wondered when you’d return. I have a present for you.” He smiled, his youthful face accentuated by his long blond hair. “Come, little brother.” Something sinister lurked behind his pale blue eyes.
Bastian stiffened, breathed deeply, and gasped in shock at the mortal scent teasing his nostrils. “They are here? Alive?”
“There is only one way you will find out.”
As he followed his older sibling, Bastian’s heart pounded. Maybe I can still salvage my relationship with Elise if I erase their memories of this place and bring them home quickly.
When Donovan reached for the door to the dungeon, Bastian’s gut tightened. It was where his brother kept his meals. The ones he returned to repeatedly, at least.
Bastian charged at his brother, knocking him against the stone wall. Donovan’s head hit with a thud, and his perfect golden locks became stained with blood.
Donovan laughed. “Is that the best you can do? I will heal before you even find them.”
That was all it took for a rush of heat and anger to envelop Bastian. His fangs extended, his vision narrowed as if he were stalking prey, and he grabbed Donovan by the neck. “You are going to regret this, brother.”
In an instant, Donovan’s vampiric features emerged, eyes a silvery fire. His voice strained. “Come now…what about…” He coughed a few times. “Michael and Rose… Don’t you wish—”
Bastian tightened his grip, and Donovan clutched his brother’s straining forearm, desperately trying to pull it away. After a moment, Donovan gave up and let his arms hang limp at his sides. He stopped breathing, fully allowing the vampire within him to take over. Air no longer a necessity for their kind, only there to fool unsuspecting humans, along with their unneeded heartbeats.
The corner of Donovan’s lips curved upward. “Oh no, you are choking me.” Another mocking laugh rumbled from him.
Bastian cursed and used his free hand to punch the stone next to Donovan’s head. Pieces of rock exploded outward. He tossed Donovan to the ground, dropped to his knees, and landed blow after blow to his brother’s face and torso. Bones cracked under the force of his attack.
At first, Donovan did not fight back, but when Bastian continued his assault, his brother must have realized he’d better defend himself.
Donovan threw him into the wall with preternatural force. Bastian’s side took the full impact, and his ribs snapped. Searing pain ripped through him. He stood, wincing at the effort, and held his aching body.
Before Bastian could move, Donovan stumbled to the door and down the dungeon stairs.
What is he going to do to them?
As his bones healed, Bastian gasped and leaned against the hard wall, breathing heavily. He needed to give himself a moment to recover or he would be of no help to Elise’s parents—especially since it appeared as though Donovan’s sadistic side had emerged. The fire in his eyes, the condescending laughter, the pure glee of tormenting Bastian were all sure signs that the vampire in Donovan had taken over and pushed any compassion to the side.
“Hurry, little brother. You do not want to miss this. It is time you learned your lesson, once and for all.” Donovan’s voice echoed off the high ceiling.
Bloody hell. Bastian stood completely, heart racing. “What lesson would that be?”
“Why, keeping our secret better, of course. Oh, and not getting involved with a Hunter’s sister.”
Bastian slowly made his way to the dungeon. Though no torches were lit, he saw plain as day with his vampiric sight. “I didn’t know Jacob was a Hunter at first. And Elise’s parents have no idea what we are.”
“Ah, so you admit you told Elise, then.” It wasn’t a question. More of an accusation. “I had a feeling when you’d gone missing you were off doing something stupid and reckless again. Glad to know you never fail to disappoint.”
Donovan had no idea Bastian had bought a small castle, with all the land he and Elise could ever want. Was it impulsive to do such before revealing everything to her? Maybe. But over the short time they’d spent there she had grown to love the home.
If not for Donovan interfering with her parents, all would end well.
Hopefully, Bastian could still salvage this situation.
Muffled cries for help came from below. It had to be Elise’s parents. If Donovan spoke so freely in front of them, he surely planned to kill them. Hell, they probably already knew he was a vampire since he had most likely drunk from them.
Remembering his promise to Elise, Bastian prepared for the fight of his life to save Michael and Rose. He couldn’t lose Elise, especially not over something as horrific as this. She would certainly see him as a monster again.
By the time Bastian made his way down to the dungeon, most of his strength had returned. He met near silence in the narrow, musty anteroom. The occasional drip of water seeped through the walls, but beyond that was quiet.
Hunting mode it is then. He closed his eyes and allowed his heightened senses to do their jobs. The faintest scratching noise emanated from behind the door to the left, and a deep breath let him know it came from a human. He also smelled his brother’s blood, as well as a mortal’s.
His pulse quickened. I cannot be too late. He moved and ripped the door from the wall, wood splintering, rock crumbling.
The sickening crack of bones screamed in his ears as Donovan twisted their necks, one of them in each arm. Bastian fell to his knees when the lifeless bodies of Elise’s parents hit the damp ground, their clothes stained crimson. Part of him wanted to cry out in anger, another part simply wanted to cry. Any hope for a life with Elise shattered with their deaths.
He looked up and locked gazes with Donovan, surprised by the sudden empathy in his brother’s eyes.
It was not enough to keep Bastian from taking out his anguish on the other vampire, though.
He flew at his brother with all his strength and speed. Donovan stepped to the side, and Bastian crashed into the wall.
“Bastian, stop. It is over.” Donovan reached out to rest a hand on his shoulder.
Unfortunately, those words were true. The thought of facing Elise, trying to explain why her parents were murdered, took the fight out of him. He slid to the floor and cradled his aching side.
It is my fault. The secret must be kept.
Prologue: part 2
After burying Michael and Rose, Bastian returned to Elise and that damned Hunter. More time had passed than he’d planned, and night had given way to bright daylight. He had ridden in another well-covered carriage to hide from the sunlight as much as possible. Not that it would kill him, but he was already weak from fighting and healing, and the sun would further decrease his strength. He’d soon need blood as it was. More than he could safely drink from Elise—not that she would allow it when she heard what had happened, if he could even bring himself to tell her the awful truth.
The cottage was eerily quiet as he approached. One long, deep breath told him all he needed to know. The scents of at least five distinct mortal males, aside from Jacob, hung heavy in the air.
He was walking into an ambush.
He had to get Elise alone and learn what had happened in his absence. Time wasn't on his side. With the sun shining, he grew weaker by the minute. Fire tore through his body as his hunger increased.
I should have fed on the way.
Although the cottage was more than likely full of Hunters, Bastian swung the creaking door open and walked in.
Jacob glared at him the second he closed the door behind him. No one else was in sight, but there were multiple heartbeats within the house. Worse yet, he sensed Elise’s fear and panic.
"Where are my parents?" Jacob stood behind a large wooden chair, gripping the top, his knuckles white.
Bastian probed his mind.
Jacob hoped to use the spindles of the chair’s back as makeshift stakes since his vampire-killing weapons lay on the other side of the room. Hunters guarded Elise upstairs. But what he found next had him reeling far more than the hunger.
She had betrayed him, given away his secret.
The blow of this revelation nearly knocked him off his feet. He immediately severed his connection with the Hunter’s mind, steadied himself, and clenched his fists. Fighting tears, he eased forward, hoping to lull Jacob into a false sense of security. “I could not find them. I am sorry.”
Jacob lowered his head as waves of sadness rolled off him, and Bastian seized the opportunity to lunge at him, knocking him away from the chair.
Bastian straddled him and held him firm, no matter how much he resisted. “I cannot allow you to live knowing my secret, but I cannot harm you because of Elise. You leave me no choice…”
Although it went against the Code because there was no guarantee of permanence, Bastian had to erase Jacob’s memories of the past few days. Elise had already lost her parents. He would not have her lose her brother, too. Just as he prepared to manipulate Jacob’s mind, the rumble of footsteps announced the others’ approach. At least two pistols clicked, cocked and ready, and one sword swished from its sheath.
Instinct took over, and Bastian’s senses sparked with new life. What little blood remained in his body burned through his veins. He fought the change, breathing deep to calm the beast within so his teeth and eyes remained normal. If he released that side of himself, any of the Hunters who saw him would have to die—Jacob included.
As it was, if the ruling Elders discovered Elise had broken their Code of laws and divulged his secret, she’d be sentenced to death, as well. He had warned her about this. She knew the consequences. How could she have put her life in jeopardy?
If I had implanted the suggestion in her mind to hide the truth, this might have been avoided. But he had hoped to trust her completely, and she had let him down just as much.
Three men rushed into the room, weapons drawn, while Jacob struggled beneath him. That meant two were with Elise.
A lanky blond pointed a pistol directly at Bastian’s head. “Release him, vampire!”
No sudden movements. Bastian raised his hands, stood, and backed into the corner so no one could come at him from behind. “I do not understand. Did you say…vampire?”
Jacob jumped up and locked gazes with Bastian. “Do not play games with us. We know what you are.” He spat at Bastian’s feet. “You defiled my sister in the most heinous ways. You will pay with your life.”
The other gun was now pointed at Bastian’s heart, but unless they were loaded with silver, he had no worries—other than temporary pain—and even then, it would only slow him down some. The rotund Hunter held the sword toward Bastian’s gut. Jacob retrieved his sword and placed the blade at Bastian’s throat.
He hadn’t noticed the sword when he’d entered the cottage. Apparently, the Hunters had learned a new trick. Swords would be their only hope of truly dispatching a vampire, if they had enough strength and could move fast enough to take off his head. Unlikely. But in his weakened state, Bastian questioned his own speed and power.
Just as he prepared to disarm his attackers, a clattering ruckus upstairs grabbed everyone’s attention. All heads turned briefly, and then the Hunters glared at Bastian again.
Worried for Elise, his concentration wavered, and a gunshot echoed in the room. Searing pain ripped through his chest. He instinctively clutched the wound as Jacob attempted to slice into his neck. Luckily, it was nearly impossible to decapitate an immortal without a clean sword swing, unless the attacker was a vampire. A mere human simply did not have the necessary strength.
The slow aching progression of the blade easing into Bastian’s throat afforded him time to push the weapon away. It fell to the ground with a clang. He groaned and fought the urge to double over but could no longer contain the beast within. His vampiric features emerged. He would have to finish the Hunters off since their stares fell upon him.
The Hunters gasped and appeared frozen in astonishment, which gave him the opportunity he needed. He snatched the sword and swiftly beheaded all but Jacob before they blinked.
The heads remained in place for a moment, eyes wide in shock. Arms automatically tried to reach up, but before they moved far, the bodies collapsed. They fell like dominoes, thudding as they hit the floor, the heads rolling in a macabre fashion. Pools of crimson spread and merged, the thick coppery scent sweetening the air.
Not as weak as I thought. To his surprise, the pistol shot had not slowed him down. Definitely not silver. The tingling burn at his neck told him the sword wound was already healing.
He spun and pointed Jacob’s own blade at him, backing him into the wall. Bastian held back a wince from the pain in his chest.
A scream grabbed his attention, and he turned to see Elise running down the stairs with two Hunters behind her.
“No, Bastian. Please don’t hurt him.” The anguish in her voice tugged at his heart.
She stopped at the bottom of the steps, staring at the headless corpses with her mouth dropped open. Slowly, her horrified gaze returned to Bastian. Two more pistols cocked behind her.
With what he had to do next, she would truly know him as a monster.
~***~
Elise’s heart raced, her breathing ragged as she struggled to comprehend the ghastly sights before her. Blood everywhere. Men decapitated. Men she had been talking to about their families not long ago. And Bastian, bleeding, perhaps shot, holding a sword to Jacob.
Her body trembled. She gripped the stair’s railing to steady herself, her knees ready to give way. The room spun around her, and she feared she might pass out.
Someone behind her spoke. “Elise, go back upstairs.”
Her legs were heavy and immovable.
A gurgled sound came from Jacob. “Now, Elise… Go.”
All she could manage was a slight shake of her head. She wouldn’t leave Jacob or Bastian.
She glanced at the carnage once more then faced Bastian. Unable to speak, unsure what to say, she tried to plead with her eyes. To beg for her brother’s life to be spared. To beg forgiveness…
Guilt tore at her heart, and welling tears blurred her vision. If she hadn’t allowed Jacob to drag Bastian’s secret from her by using her fears about their parents, those men would still be alive. Their families would not have to mourn.
No one moved until another shot rang out, and Elise’s heart nearly jumped out of her chest. When Bastian dropped the sword and grasped his neck, her stomach knotted, and her knees buckled. She did her best to follow the commotion that ensued.
Everyone rushed Bastian as he stumbled backward and fell over the small side table. The wood splintered, and Jacob grabbed one of the broken legs.
No, please… “Jacob, no.” Her voice cracked, too weak to be heard.
Except by Bastian.
His silvery gaze locked with hers. She reached out to him from across the room. Blood oozed from his wounds. His skin was paler than normal. He looked like he might die. Her heart sank.
When Jacob moved to plunge the stake into him, she squeezed her eyes shut, unable to watch her brother murder the man she loved.
A loud thud made her eyes snap open. Jacob lay sprawled over another broken table. There was a bloody gash on his forehead, but he seemed otherwise unharmed. Elise turned back to Bastian as he scuffled with the Hunters.
Bastian’s arms clamped around the Hunter she knew as Dominic. Then Bastian kicked the other, Nathanial, backward until the Hunter crashed into the hard stone of the hearth. Nathanial’s head hit with a sickening thump, and his neck twisted at a strange angle. His body fell limp to the floor.
Jacob stood, wobbly on his feet, and hobbled over to where Bastian now lay devouring Dominic’s blood. Bastian’s stare burned into Elise while he fed. Dominic’s body twitched as his life drained away.
Nausea rolled over her, yet she could not look away. Something in Bastian’s eyes called to her. Love and…disappointment. She’d never seen him kill, never wanted to believe him capable, no matter what he had told her. But she could no longer deny his true nature.
Just as Jacob made his way to help Dominic, Bastian stopped drinking, pulled back with blood dripping from his lips, and snapped Dominic’s neck. The cracking of the bones echoed in Elise’s head, and she winced—but she never broke eye contact with Bastian.
The color had returned to his fair skin, and his wounds began to heal. He jumped to his feet and stood face-to-face with Jacob. When she heard the click of a cocking pistol, she glanced to the weapon in Bastian’s hand—pointed directly at her brother’s heart.
Jacob grunted, looked around at his fallen friends, then focused on Bastian once more. “Go ahead vampire. Kill me in front of Elise. She’s already seen you for the monster you are. Why not finish this? I will gladly sacrifice myself if it means my sister will hate you forever.”
For a long moment, no one moved. Then Bastian stepped backward and lowered the gun, and his head.
He is still my Bastian.
Her heart raced, flooded with love for the two men. She no longer cared what Bastian was or what he had done. At least, she tried to convince herself of this.
Just don’t look at the bodies.
She took a deep breath and let it out with a sigh. The worst was over. Surely, neither man would harm the other, even if only for her.
But after Bastian dropped the pistol, Jacob yanked a stake from under his shirt and plunged it into Bastian’s chest before he could defend himself.
“No!” She scrambled to her feet and ran to his side as he collapsed. “Bastian…”
His hand clutched the stake, but he didn’t move otherwise. He wasn’t breathing. His eyes were open, and he eventually blinked.
Thank God, he is still alive.
She turned to Jacob, tears streaming down her face. “How could you… I love him.”
Jacob spread his arms wide, motioning toward the dreadful scene surrounding them. “Don’t you see what he did? How can you love something so evil? He is not human, Elise. You must accept this.”
She didn’t look. Instead, she wiped her eyes and begged. “Please, Jacob. Help him… For me.” Returning her attention to Bastian, she brushed the tangled golden locks from his face, his empty stare fixed on the ceiling. “Bastian, look at me. What can we do? I cannot lose you.” When he didn’t respond, she trembled as she reached for his free hand and lowered her head. “I love you. I am so sorry. I never meant—”
The clang of a sword made her turn to Jacob. Bastian tightened his fingers around hers and groaned. When she looked back to him, he eased the wooden weapon out of his chest, his expression pained.
By the time the stake was removed, Jacob stood over him, sword drawn. “Move, Elise. Let me end this.”
Was he mad? Did he honestly think she would allow him to kill Bastian?
She positioned herself between the men, draping her body over Bastian’s, shielding his neck with her own.
His ragged breaths fell upon her throat. His arms wrapped around her. His voice a mere whisper. “I forgive you, my love. Please forgive me, as well.”
He kissed her neck, rolled her off him, and leapt to his feet. In a blur of movement, he grabbed the sword from Jacob and took off his head.
“No!” She turned away from the gruesome sight as her body quaked in shock.
~***~
Elise’s cry cut through Bastian’s heart, but he’d had no choice. If he hadn’t dispatched all the Hunters, Jacob included, after they had seen his true self, he could face death when the Elders found out. As it was, he had to find a way to save Elise from their wrath.
Maybe if they ran, hid from the Elders’ Enforcers, he could protect her. She might hate him, but at least she’d be alive.
With all that had happened, the Enforcers would soon be after Elise. Somehow, the Elders always knew of infractions almost immediately.
He stared at the massacre he’d left in his wake. Blood and bodies littered the room. Elise sat with her arms wrapped around herself, rocking back and forth, a blank stare on her face.
His chest ached where the stake had been, but it hurt even more for her.
After kneeling beside her, he took her in his arms. Surprisingly, she did not resist. He calmed the vampire within by breathing in her sweet, lavender perfume. The pressure of his eyes and fangs shifting back was more intense than normal, most likely from the fight—his wounds still healing.
He needed more blood to replenish what he’d lost, but Elise would never understand if he fed on a corpse. And drinking from her was not an option, especially now.
She did not respond to the world around her. In her mind, he found a jumbled mess. Her emotions were numb. She continued rocking, making no sounds, not even crying. He kissed the top of her head and stroked her hair. Losing her brother had obviously been more than she could handle.
Arms trembling from concern, he lifted her then carried her to the sofa. He sat, placing her on his lap, and cradled her. “Elise, please say something.”
Still no response.
Bastian shuddered. What if she never comes out of this? What if she is lost inside her mind forever?
After living for so many years, he’d had plenty of opportunities to see the effects of trauma. The thought of Elise spending the rest of her life catatonic sent a chill through him.
No. If it came down to that, he would turn her and pray it somehow reversed her condition.
But he was letting his imagination run amok. He had to focus to save her.
With another deep breath, he attempted to clear his mind, but the savory scent of blood in the room punched his stomach. He needed to feed more or he wouldn’t have the strength to get them to safety.
He eased Elise off his lap and laid her down as he stood, making sure she faced away from the bodies so she didn’t see what he was about to do.
The Hunter by the hearth was the only one who hadn’t already lost most of his blood. Bastian lifted the corpse into his arms. The man’s head lay at an odd angle, but it left a tantalizing spot open to Bastian. His fangs ached as they descended, his wounds stinging and burning as they continued to heal. One glance to ensure Elise had not moved and Bastian bit into the Hunter’s neck.
The still-warm blood made its way through Bastian’s body, easing his nerves and pain. As he drank, his wounds finished healing. By the time he released the body and it thudded to the floor, he was good as new, but he still had to figure out how to help Elise.
He also had to find a way to avoid the Elders’ wrath, if that were even possible. He’d have to burn the cottage, and the bodies within, to the ground, leaving no trace of what had happened.
~***~
When a few days had passed and Elise hadn’t come out of the stupor she’d succumbed to, Bastian was left with no choice but to go to Donovan for help. He had done his best to make her drink, but she took no food, and her human body appeared to be shutting down. As darkness fell, he loaded her into a carriage and left behind his new castle and land—and possibly their hopes for the future.
He rode through the night, guiding the horses over the moonlit countryside, taking care to make the trip as smooth as possible. Elise deserved as much comfort as he could provide. He believed the outside world still impressed itself upon her, though no signs in her mind or body pointed to this.
The risk of going to the Evanko Estate was grave now that the Elders most likely knew Elise had inadvertently told her vampire Hunter brother about Bastian, but he would protect Elise even if he had to sacrifice his life to do so.
As the mist spread across the landscape, he tried again to pull something tangible from her thoughts. All he found were distant memories flashing in and out. Nothing of the last few days, and nothing of the time he’d spent with her. It was as if she had never met him. Like their love had never existed.
Her mind was a cliff at the end of a long, flowering field. Her life existed blissfully until right before they had met then came the sheer drop at the edge where their relationship should have been. All they were to each other, all they had shared, erased. Blocked out. Gone.
Guilt washed over him. If he’d never brought her into his world, her perfect life would have remained intact, her parents and brother alive, her illusions in place. Monsters would only exist in nightmares.
Her numbness filled him and relieved his anguish. He rode on in a daze until he reached the castle gates and guided the carriage through. They were wide open and welcoming, summoning him in as if Donovan awaited his return. Odd, though nothing else appeared out of order.
After carrying Elise inside, Bastian called out for Donovan, but his brother did not reply.
Probably out hunting.
He took Elise into the parlor and placed her gently on the sofa. Stroking her hair, he leaned in and kissed her lips. No response. Once more, he allowed himself to feel the full breadth of her existence, her lack of emotions, her dizzying memories, her body’s weakness--
A tingling sensation rolled up his spine, alerting him that something was wrong, but by the time he pulled back from her consciousness, it was too late.
He turned to find Donovan and his friend Christof, along with a strange woman, standing just inside the doorway.
Donovan’s brows furrowed. “Why did you come here? You should have known they would be looking for you. For her.”
Christof and the woman approached slowly.
Bastian looked to Donovan. “They who? The Enforcers?”
Donovan merely lowered his head and backed up a few steps. “I am sorry, brother.” Then he left the room.
The woman stood behind the sofa, her gaze trailing over Elise.
Christof touched Bastian’s arm. “You need to move and let us do our job.”
Bastian’s mind reeled. What job? “What are you talking about?”
“I am an Enforcer now, and this is Lenora. She is an Enforcer, as well.” He nodded toward the woman.
Stumbling backward, shocked at this revelation, Bastian reached for the chair to steady himself. No. This cannot be. When had Christof become one of the Elders’ Enforcers? Bastian had not seen him in a century or more, nearly forgotten he existed.
What did they plan to do with Elise? “You must not harm her. She is no longer a threat to us. Her mind has slipped into madness. I fear she may never come back to this world.”
“Then it is of no consequence that we follow through with her punishment.” Christof looked to Lenora. “Take her to the dungeon.”
When the woman moved to pick up Elise, Bastian darted toward her. Christof cut him off, grabbing Bastian and slamming him to the ground.
Bastian’s heart thundered. He caught a glimpse of Lenora heading out of the room, Elise lifeless in her arms.
A surge of anger burned through his veins, and he jumped up then tossed Christof into the bookshelves. Books rained down upon the Enforcer, and Bastian took the opportunity to bolt out the door.
Donovan blocked the way to the dungeon. “No, brother. You must not interfere or you will pay with your life. You know how this works.”
“I do not expect you to step in and risk death, but you are bloody mad if you think I will stand by while they kill Elise.” Bastian pushed his brother out of the way and flew down the stairs.
Footsteps followed him, but he kept running until he came to the room where Elise’s parents had recently been murdered. Elise lay on the damp floor, Lenora standing over her with a sword.
An inner strength Bastian had never known before took over, and he dashed in front of the woman, snatched the sword from her, and knocked her into the wall. She crashed into the stone and lost her footing.
Christof’s voice echoed in the small room. “Stop this, Bastian, for your brother’s sake. Do not make us kill you.”
The bastard grabbed him from behind and wrenched away the sword. Bastian spun around to take Christof down, but something sharp jabbed into his arm. He looked to see a needle full of silver. Christof emptied it into him before he could react.
The liquid poisoned him immediately, rushing through his body in a trail of white heat. His head and limbs grew heavy. He stumbled to keep his balance and swung blindly at Christof, though in vain. He fell to his knees, reaching for Elise.
Christof moved in, sword in hand, as Lenora rose, a sickening grin on her face. Bastian scrambled along the floor, but he might as well have been crawling through quicksand. His arms gave out, and he lay splayed on his stomach, gaze fixed upon Elise.
A glint of torchlight flickered on the blade as it came down. He could no longer make out anything aside from Elise and that damned sword, as if it floated in the air of its own accord. He groaned, trying to move, but his body did not respond.
The blade sliced through her delicate neck as if it were paper.
Bastian tried to scream, but his world went black.
He’d eventually awoke in the Elders’ dungeon, and it hadn’t taken long for them to sentence him to death for trying to stop the Enforcers from carrying out Elise’s execution. He had been locked up and drugged with silver, but now he sat before them, listening to his fate being sealed. Not that he cared to live without Elise.
His heart ached. Images of her murder had been imprinted upon his brain. Her decapitation, her blood pooling around him before he lost consciousness. She’d been helpless to defend herself, and he had let her down.
He rested his head in his hands, still reeling from the remaining poison in his system. The conversation in the room turned to mumbled background noise. After a deep breath, he looked up and realized Donovan was pleading with the Elders.
“Please, I know it is within your power to grant me the opportunity to take responsibility for my brother. To ensure he will follow the Code from now on.” He knelt before the dais on which they sat. “I beseech you.”
Akori, the Elders’ leader, stood, the black hood of his robe hiding most of his face. “You would take the oath? Put your life on the line to save this traitor?”
Donovan bowed his head. “Yes.”
Bastian tried to tell his brother to stop, but his mouth was too dry to form the words. He licked at his lips and swallowed the lump in his throat, then made another attempt. A wheeze was all that escaped his lips. A puff of air ignored by everyone in the room.
It was as if the Elders were controlling him so he could not speak to defend himself or his brother.
The five Elders looked back and forth amongst themselves, nodding, apparently communicating telepathically.
What in the bloody hell gives them the right to play gods?
Everyone in the room turned and glared at Bastian, including Christof and Lenora. He’d forgotten he could not shield his thoughts from the others with silver in his body.
Akori looked back to Donovan. “Are you certain this is what you wish? I believe it is foolish.”
“He is my brother. I must. He has this life because of me. He is my responsibility.” Donovan stood, but still bowed his head in reverence.
“So be it, then.” Akori lowered his hood and his black eyes shined like onyx in the candlelight, his skin far paler than a normal vampire’s. “We hereby decree Bastian Evanko will spend two hundred years in exile, during which time Donovan Evanko will be held guilty for any indiscretion or violation Bastian may commit. Both will be sentenced as one. Both die if Bastian breaks the Code. Do you swear your oath to this, Donovan?”
Donovan did not hesitate, and his conviction came through with his unwavering tone. “Yes. I swear. My life with his.”
The room fell silent. Bastian tried to comprehend all he’d heard. What type of exile did they mean? Two hundred years? He shivered.
Akori dismissed the other Elders and motioned for Christof and Lenora to come to him. After Akori spoke with the Enforcers, they walked over to Bastian, picked him up under the arms, and dragged him back to his cell. Donovan followed behind.
Once there, they dropped him to the cold floor and slammed the door closed.
Christof leaned against the bars. “Tomorrow you will be put on a ship to the new world—both of you. There, Bastian must live in isolation from our kind, and from mortals, and may feed only upon the blood of animals.”
Turning to Donovan, he continued. “You will be given all the freedoms you have here, but make no mistake, it is a savage and uncivilized place. Your life will not be easy. And if he breaks the Code, the Elders will know. They have eyes everywhere.” He walked over to Donovan and rested a hand on his shoulder. “Please, my friend. It is not too late to change your mind.”
Donovan returned the gesture. “I cannot. He is here because of me. If only I’d handled things differently…”
Christof grunted then looked to Bastian and spat at the cell. “I hope you are happy. Now Donovan shall die when you fall again. It is only a matter of time.” He faced Lenora. “Come.”
The Enforcers left, and Donovan turned to Bastian. “Forgive me, brother. I had no idea she meant so much to you. You know how I am when it comes to protecting our secret, not that this is an excuse...” He paced as if he were the one in a cage. “We will find a way to make it through the years ahead.”
“That is easy for you to say. You are not the one who will have to live completely alone—with nothing but visions of seeing the woman you love beheaded while you were helpless to do a thing to save her.” Bastian’s voice was weak, just like his aching heart.
Donovan stepped to the cell door, grasped the bars with both hands, and lowered his gaze. “I know I cannot undo what has happened, but you must know I love you. And I am truly sorry.” He raised his head. “I have put my life on the line as way of apology, and to show you I believe you can change—even after all these years. I will be there for you when your sentence is over. Please, Bastian, do not let me down.”
After a few moments of Bastian’s silence, Donovan sighed, moved to put out the torch lamp that hung from the ceiling, and went on his way.
Bastian leaned against the damp wall, unsure if he could honor his brother. Even in his debilitated state, all he wanted was to avenge Elise’s death.
To kill that bastard of an Enforcer.
Maybe he would simply use the next two hundred years to plan his retribution.
Chapter One
Pennsylvania, USA. Present day.
This wasn’t the homecoming Bastian Evanko had hoped for after two hundred years in exile. Getting berated by his brother only served as a reminder of how strained their relationship had always been. Apparently, the time apart had done nothing to mend old wounds.
So much for starting over.
Donovan paced behind his mahogany desk, blond hair falling perfectly down the back of his expensive suit. “You shouldn’t be here. You know better. This city is no good for you, not with your past.”
Bastian gripped the wooden armrests of the pretentious-looking chair where Donovan had commanded him to sit. “My sentence is over. I will come and go as I please now. Spending the last two centuries in isolation was almost more than I could take.” He loosened his hold when the wood cracked. If he turned the chair into kindling, he’d never hear the end of it.
A point Donovan confirmed when he stopped and glared. “You’d better not destroy my office, little brother. The last thing we need is a repeat of what happened—”
“Oh, please. How long are you going to keep bringing that up?” Bastian clenched his fists and stood, nearly knocking the fucking chair backward. So what if he’d turned much of their home into rubble after one of their many arguments centuries ago? “And stop calling me little brother. The fact that you’re two years older than me makes no difference after nearly a millennium.”
In an instant, Donovan moved to face Bastian. His brother’s eyes turned silver and his fangs extended. “Do not think to challenge me, little brother. As long as I have to keep cleaning up your messes, I’ll call you whatever I damn well please.” He waved a dismissive hand and returned to his desk, eyes reverting to their usual pale blue as his fangs receded. The monster within was hidden behind his baby face once more. No one would ever suspect a murderous creature lurked beneath that innocent façade.
With a deep breath, Bastian sucked in the amped-up vampiric testosterone saturating the air. The tension between them was suffocating, and the next move rested on his shoulders. He could take the all-too-familiar road of trying to prove himself with a physical display and allow the powder keg to once again explode, or…
“You’re right. I have made many mistakes, but you also know I’ve done nothing wrong since you stood up for me with the Elders and convinced them to spare my life.” Not entirely true, but as long as no one knew how Bastian had disobeyed the Elders from time to time during his exile, he wasn’t about to admit anything. Hand extended, he crossed the room and stopped a respectable distance away from his brother. “Please, Donovan, let’s put the past behind us and move forward. How can I make amends if you won’t give me the opportunity?”
There was silence except for the ticking of the large antique clock on the bookcase. Soundproof walls allowed in nothing from the nightclub beyond the office door, or from the bustling city outside.
Donovan glanced at Bastian’s proffered hand then locked gazes with him. His brother’s expression was unreadable.
For a moment, Bastian wished vampires weren’t able to shield their thoughts and emotions from each other, unless their scents happened to give the latter away.
Unfortunately, Donovan’s didn’t.
Bastian’s shoulders stiffened. A few more seconds of being ignored and he would lose the tenuous grasp he had on his temper.
In the past, he would have blown by now—verbally and physically—without regard for the consequences. His poor impulse control had created a rift between him and Donovan long ago, far before the events that led to Bastian’s exile. He never did anything right in his brother’s eyes, resulting in far too many years of Donovan’s condescending attitude. But Bastian wanted his brother to see he was different now, and the only way for that to happen was to fight the anger.
Pressure built in his gums. His fangs ached to descend. Swallowing hard, he licked his teeth.
Still normal, but not for long.
With a nod, Donovan finally accepted his hand. “Okay, I concede. Looks like you might have really changed this time.” He immediately stood and pulled Bastian in for a hug, landing a hard smack on his back. “It’s good to have you here, little brother.”
Jaw clenched at those words, Bastian returned the show of affection with an equally powerful blow.
A few blood-infused drinks and half an hour later, Donovan gave Bastian a tour of his club.
Nocturnal Surrender sat in the middle of the Langsville Strip, flanked by a casino and a hotel. The New Sin City truly lived up to its name, and just as they had in Las Vegas, vampires had capitalized on the sin aspect.
Bastian surveyed the club and its patrons. Every vamp in the room had silver eyes and extended fangs—no need to hide since it was supposed to be fake. Unsuspecting humans, including timid tourists who looked out of place, became meals for immortals. He held in a chuckle when he noticed a few mortals wearing various shades of vampiric contacts. Some even had artificial fangs.
Hard rock music blared from hidden speakers. Candles flickered on tables and shelves, adding a contrasting old-world ambiance. Gothic arches framed the doorways.
He inhaled deeply, drawing in the wondrous scent that permeated the open room.
Blood.
Dizziness swept over him. The urge to feed punched him hard, leaving him winded. Thankfully, he was already vamped out, enjoying the ability to be himself in his brother’s club.
But it had been two centuries since he’d been allowed to feed from humans. Living on the blood of animals had created a meager, disgusting life he wanted to bury in the past.
Yes, on his way to Langsville, he had gorged himself on human blood whenever possible, knowing full well it was the only way he’d be able to adjust and fit back in with this new society.
He’d rarely been able to feed without killing since coming out of exile. Very little self-control at all in that area after all this time. He hadn’t faulted himself, though. What vampire could come back from such torture and not drain people dry at first?
He would get it under control soon enough. He shut down his breathing to keep the temptation at bay, but the hunger raged on, refusing to die just as Bastian had over the last two hundred years.
Donovan’s voice droned on about his business. Bastian’s ears rang. Between his brother, the music, and the patrons’ talking he felt he might go mad.
He hadn’t been around so many people, so much stimuli…ever. Even before his exile there simply wasn’t this much noise and life in one confined space anywhere, at least not that he had been exposed to.
He needed more blood to take the edge off before he did something to land him back in front of the Elders, his life once more on the line. “Another drink, Donovan?” He tried to keep the hunger from coming through in his voice. “I’m afraid all this activity has my brain buzzing.”
His brother turned to him, concern etched on his features. He took Bastian’s face in his hands, examined him for a few long seconds, and finally released him. “This is exactly what I was afraid of. This city is not the place for you so soon. Come.” Donovan led the way to the bar and ordered them a few more drinks, Surrender Style, which apparently meant they were infused with blood. “Make it a double shot this time.”
The bartender nodded, adding extra blood to the mix.
Bastian grabbed the glass and gulped it down. He set the glass down with a thud, motioned for a refill, and chugged it too. His head slowly cleared, and the hunger subsided. For now.
Donovan gave him another once-over. “Feeling better?”
Bastian couldn’t tell if his brother actually cared or just didn’t want a massacre in his club. “I’m good, thanks. I have it under control, obviously, or else I would have slaughtered all the humans in here by now.”
His brother didn’t look convinced. “Still, I think I’ll be keeping my eye on you. Come…there is more to see.” He really did like telling Bastian what to do.
When Donovan finished showing him around, they sat in one of the many crimson-colored booths.
The Nightclub with a Bite. Bastian had to laugh at the sign behind the bar, its dramatic lettering exaggerated by fang-like projections. He looked to Donovan and raised his glass. “I’ve got to commend you. Opening a sanguinarian nightclub was a stroke of genius.”
“Amazing, isn’t it? Just like the blood houses of old but with all the modern conveniences.” Donovan rested a hand on his brother’s back.
Warmth spread through Bastian at the loving touch. It had been many centuries since Donovan yielded any real compassion. Could this be the new beginning Bastian had hoped for all these years? Would he finally be deemed worthy, good enough, and not a screw up? Would he no longer be considered a scourge on the Evanko name?
When Donovan pulled away, a cold and empty spot remained where his palm had been, not unlike the one that had been left in Bastian’s heart long ago. The first time, after Donovan turned his back on him when it became clear Bastian would live by his own rules and not the Elders’ Code. The second, when that bastard of an Enforcer, Christof Rosenbaum, murdered the woman he loved.
Bastian had tried to save Elise after she’d been sentenced to death for revealing the fact vampires existed. That had made him a traitor to his kind, and the Elders’ wrath had landed squarely on his shoulders.
Two hundred years.
If he hadn’t released his glass, he would have pulverized it. His body tensed. With his focus on the anger, the ability to conceal his thoughts and emotions slipped.
Concern came through in Donovan’s voice. “What’s wrong now? Are you all right?”
No, he wasn’t. He hadn’t been all right for too many years, but he needed to regain his composure if he wanted Donovan’s trust. He closed his eyes and took an extended breath, pulling in the comforting mortal scents that dragged away the anger. Even if it kicked and screamed to stay, and even if the hunger surged again.
Now was not the time for reopening old wounds. Revenge on the asshole who had denied him a life with Elise could come later.
It would come later.
“What are you thinking? You cannot go after him. He owns half this city, and you know he is one of my friends.” Donovan’s words were a stake to the heart.
Bastian’s eyes snapped open. He glared at the vampire beside him. “How could you still be friends with him after what he did to Elise? I watched him behead her. I was too weak from the silver he’d pumped into me to save her.” His gut knotted and a wave of nausea rolled over him at thought of that image, which had been burned into his memory for eternity.
He leaned forward, placed his elbows on the table, and cradled his aching head in his hands, fighting back the tears he swore he wouldn’t shed until Rosenbaum paid for her death.
He hated knowing that Elise’s last lucid memories were of him murdering her brother, but he’d had no choice. The Hunter had intended to kill him, wouldn’t have stopped until one of them was dead. If Elise hadn’t thrown herself on top of Bastian when Jacob had staked him, the Hunter would have beheaded him.
After Bastian pulled out the makeshift stake, he’d had no choice but to kill Jacob while Elise watched in horror.
Donovan’s gentle touch returned. Bastian flinched, unable to allow himself to be soothed when he’d been betrayed by his own flesh and blood again.
“Bastian, I know you were devastated, but it wasn’t Christof’s fault. He had to follow orders. And as much as it pains you, the blame lies with Elise. If she wouldn’t have broken the Code, she might still be with you today.” Donovan moved his hand away and sighed. “Besides, Christof retired from the Enforcers long ago. He passed his post on to his friend, Alexander Mitchell. If you’re planning on staying in town for any length of time, you will run into them. They are both regulars here.”
A cold chill swept over Bastian. How could his brother be so cavalier about Elise’s death? Vampire or not, he had to have some emotion left.
The urge to get up, toss the table across the room, knock Donovan to the floor, and pound his face overtook Bastian. Bones crushing under the onslaught would be a relief, just as it had in the past, no matter how temporary the injuries.
Donovan may have been the older brother, but Bastian was larger and stronger. The only reason Donovan ever prevailed was his ability to control his temper. Bastian had always been a loose cannon, which had been his downfall many times. But no longer. He’d vowed to take back his life, and if that meant playing civil with the Enforcers then so be it. For now.
He sat up and took one last deep breath in an attempt to release his anger and shield his thoughts and emotions. It only half worked as another round of hunger racked his body. He shut down his breathing once more. “You’re right. I meant it when I said I wanted to leave the past behind and move forward.” At least partially. “I can’t hold onto this forever. It’s been eating me alive for far too long. But I will never be friendly with Rosenbaum, or any Enforcer.”
“I’m not asking for friendly, only a truce, even if it is an uneasy one. The Elders won’t hesitate to reinstate your original death sentence if you break their laws again, and I don’t want to lose you.” Donovan took a long drink of bourbon before looking back to his brother. “I have an idea of how we can blow off some steam and lighten the mood, assuming you can keep your hunger—and attitude—in check. You up for it?”
“Depends on what it is.” Bastian finished his beer in one swig. “And yes, I can control myself. So what’s the plan?”
A huge grin played along Donovan’s baby face. “You just have to trust me, little brother. I promise it will be worth it.”
Chapter Two
Club Delacroix couldn’t have been more different than Nocturnal Surrender. Dance music blasted while bright lights illuminated scantily clad waiters and waitresses. Instead of a dark and brooding atmosphere, the room exuded cheer, accented with shouts from the patrons watching strippers glide provocatively across the stage.
Bastian’s head bobbed in time with the nearest dancer’s breasts. “This was a great idea. I think I’m in love.” So long as he didn’t breathe, the hunger retreated, replaced by another desire that had gone too long unattended.
Donovan’s voice tensed. “Not with that one. She belongs to Kade. One wrong move and you’ll be on the chopping block again.”
“Telling me she belonged to Kade was warning enough.”
Kade Delacroix was not a vampire to cross. Even in isolated exile Bastian had heard of the club owner’s reputation. Kade would surely turn him over to the Elders for even the slightest infraction.
Bastian’s focus quickly shifted back to the women and their lack of wardrobe. “I’m not crazy about redheads anyway.” He tried forgetting that Elise had been a fiery redhead. “Maybe I’ll go for a brunette instead.”
He scanned the stage, targeting a coy little thing at the far end with his preternatural vision. Long dark curls cascaded down to caress her ample cleavage, her breasts clad in black lace. He inspected lower to find the same delicate treatment covering her delicious pussy. When she turned to make love to one of the poles, her tight ass flexed around the floss of the G-string. His cock stirred instantly.
She spun and raised her arms over her head, grasping the metal between her slender hands, stroking it, her back tight against the pole. Her nerves didn’t show, but he sensed her fear. He couldn’t help delving into her mind to find out more.
Though she worked the stage like a pro, she was actually new to the job and the city. To Bastian’s surprise, she believed she wasn’t attractive enough to make a living this way. She radiated pain, but he couldn’t put his finger on its source.
Always a sucker for a damsel in distress, he had to learn more about her. “Do you think you can get Kade to introduce me to that one?” He pointed just as she released her sumptuous tits from the restriction of the lacey bra. If he’d been sitting in front of her, the garment might have landed on him instead of the lanky geek wearing glasses.
Donovan shook his head. “I don’t think you’re ready for that, little brother. A lap dance in a private room… Are you certain you won’t tear into her throat?”
Bastian had no choice but to prove he could do this. He wanted his brother’s trust, needed his admiration for once in his miserable life. If he could pull this off, Donovan would have no choice but to admit Bastian was a changed man now. His brother didn’t need to know how far from the truth that really was, though.
If he failed, if he drained the beauty of her sad life, he would admit defeat and leave Langsville—and his brother—behind.
He breathed in slowly, allowing the delicious human aroma to stir the hunger just enough until he tamped it down by focusing on his arousal for that one stunning mortal. “See, completely in control.” He only hoped Donovan didn’t notice his clenched fists at his sides and the tension in his body from fighting his vampiric impulses and the bloodlust.
“If you screw this up, it will be the last time I put my neck on the line for you. Do you understand? Kade takes his employees’ safety seriously. They may not be marked, but it is a well-known fact that they are under his protection. Meaning—”
“I understand what it means. If I harm the woman, I will be back in front of the Elders by morning, and my original death sentence will be enforced.” That little tidbit did change things, but he could do this. He had to do this. Maybe more to prove it to himself than to Donovan.
His brother’s fingers clamped onto his shoulder. “As will mine, little brother. Do not forget my life is tied to yours because of the deal I made with the Elders to save your sorry ass.” Donovan would surely hold that over him for eternity.
Bastian gritted his teeth. “I will ensure both our sorry asses survive.” He rested his hand on Donovan’s shoulder. “I need this, brother. Do you have any idea how long it has been since I’ve had the pleasure of a woman?” Granted, some of his indiscretions over the years of his sentence had been in the arms of women, but nobody needed to know those details.
It had still been far too long. The tightness in his jeans served as a painful reminder.
“Just so you know, that’s not how Kade runs things. These girls can get frisky with you, but they are not expected to perform or get paid for sexual favors. It is entirely up to her if she chooses to do so.” Donovan eyed the petite brunette as she exited the stage. “I wouldn’t have picked her to be your type. She seems too tame for you. I guess you are different now.” He knocked back his bourbon. “Give me a minute and I’ll see what I can do.”
~***~
Nicole French sat in front of the long mirror in the dressing room of Club Delacroix, trying to summon the courage for her next routine. Many of the dancers carried on conversations as they primped and changed, but their words didn’t register. The whole thing was surreal and--
Kade’s voice echoed in the expansive room, cutting through the din. “Nikki, darling, I have a customer who would like a private dance. He asked for you specifically. You must have made quite an impression.”
Nicole jumped back in her seat. Her heart stammered, her breath catching in her chest. Hesitantly, she turned to face her boss.
Tall and fit, but not overly muscular, he emanated power. He was an alpha male if she’d ever seen one. People normally cowered when he came near, and now she had the urge to do so herself.
His Gothic appearance had freaked her out from day one, which was only last week. With that long black hair and goatee, not to mention those glowing amber eyes and freakishly white skin, he could pass for one of those crazies over at Nocturnal Surrender who thinks he’s a vampire.
She trembled but somehow held it together. “Yes, Mr. Delacroix. Is there anything in particular he asked for?”
“Do you remember what I told you during training, that sometimes customers from Nocturnal Surrender may come here and want special services?”
Swallowing hard, she forced herself to speak. “Yes, but—” She bit back the hesitation. This was her job. If she refused, if she had to find another place to work, she might end up in the seedier side of town, doing even worse things to make ends meet. For what she was paid she could let someone bite her and drink her blood, couldn’t she? A shudder tore through her, still she smiled. “Okay, I’d love to meet him and…entertain him.”
“Good. His name is Bastian Evanko, and he’ll be waiting for you in room three. If you have any questions beforehand, just ask one of the more experienced girls. Oh, and don’t forget to take a break afterward if you feel lightheaded at all.” Kade smiled wide then walked away.
She was dizzy already, and she faced a pale version of herself in the mirror—almost as light as her boss. No way could she follow through with this. Worst case scenario, she’d be fired and have to beg her parents to let her move back home. She winced at the thought, especially at her age, but it was better than the alternative of selling her body to make money.
Ginger sauntered over as she pulled on her robe, face flushed slightly from coming off stage. “The first time’s always the hardest. Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it soon enough. You might even enjoy it a little. Those sanguinarians are pretty damn hot most of the time, and they usually tip well.”
Nicole took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “I…I don’t think I can do this. A lap dance is one thing, but to…” She shuddered. “Isn’t it creepy that these guys do this?”
“Guys and girls.” Ginger ran her slender fingers through her long red locks and winked as if she liked the idea. “Sure, I thought it was weird at first, too, but you’ll see. They’re just like the rest of us, only with the kink of getting off by drinking blood.”
Nicole would have laughed if that statement hadn’t scared the hell out of her. Maybe she should have stayed home on the farm, went to nursing school, and settled down with Lucas Simmons—and had lots of babies—like her parents wanted. But no, she had to move to the opposite side of Pennsylvania so she could go to the best law school in the state.
Worse yet, she’d found out quickly the only way to make ends meet in such an expensive city was to work in a place like this. She had almost lost her small apartment from working at a local grocery store and only making minimum wage. It was either Club Delacroix or worse if she wanted to prove to her parents that she could survive out here and finish college.
Yeah, as if she’d ever make it as a lawyer when she hated arguing any point, no matter how important. Better get used to letting strange men—and women—drink her blood.
She forced a smile and thanked Ginger for the advice then went to meet her first bloodsucking customer. Unfortunately, it was a short walk to the private room where the hulking man waited for her.
At least he was good looking, but his size terrified her. Bulging biceps threatened to rip the sleeves of his blue T-shirt. Judging by those massive thighs, his jeans might split apart at any moment. The guy was all muscle, the body-builder type, and he looked to be nearly a foot taller than her. A man like that could easily force himself on her.
Thank goodness they monitor these rooms.
But it was his silver contacts and prosthetic fangs that made her heart race. What kind of weirdo did this sort of thing? Did he really believe he was a vampire? Did he need psychiatric help?
Remember what Ginger said. It’s only a fetish.
There was nothing to worry about. She’d heard stories of all sorts of strange sexual behaviors. In truth, this happened to be a tame one in comparison.
She put on her performance smile, and with her best sex-kitten voice, she cooed, “What would you like, Mr. Evanko?” She skimmed her fingers up and down his shirt, momentarily enthralled by the rippling abs underneath. “I’m all yours.”
He seized her wrist in a vice-like grip. “For starters, you can call me Bastian. Only my brother, Donovan, goes by Mr. Evanko.” Slowly, he moved her hand lower, stopping at his waistline. “Why don’t you tease me a little?”
Crap, he’s related to Donovan. That revelation hit her like a blow to the chest. Although his name had sounded familiar, she hadn’t put the pieces together before. This customer was the sibling of her boss’s best friend. Just what she needed. More pressure. Why did he have to pick her out of all the girls? She was the least experienced, and way out of her league with a guy like him.
Bastian cleared his throat, and she snapped her head up to meet his silvery gaze. When he spoke, the tenderness in his voice surprised her. “Don’t worry. I know you’re new here. I’m a patient man, and my looks can be deceiving. Think of me as a big teddy bear.”
Grizzly was more like it.
He loosened his hold, and she dipped her fingers into his pants, wiggling them against the soft patch of hair. She’d done this part a few times before, with normal customers, so she could do it again. Sadly, she had already become accustomed to this part of the job.
She pulled up his shirt with her other hand and played along the washboard she’d revealed. Like a rock. The thought piqued her curiosity. She glanced down and noticed something else was hard. Has to be painful in those tight jeans.
“Ah, that’s it. A little lower.” A groan rumbled out of him. His body tensed, as if fighting his own reaction to her touch. Still, his voice was velvety smooth. “Do you like what you see?”
“Mmhmm.” Yes, she had to play along to make the customer happy, but something about him did appeal to her. Licking her lips, she reached farther until her fingertips brushed his erection. “You really turn me on. I love a muscular man.”
At least that much was true. And his cologne smelled good, woodsy and clean. Long sandy hair framed his chiseled face, accentuating the strong angles.
I can do this. Play around with him a little and nothing else.
Even though the don’t-touch-unless-invited policy didn’t apply in the private rooms, at least sex wasn’t part of the services offered. Although a few of the girls admitted to doing more in these rooms, she didn’t have to if she didn’t want to. No matter how much larger the tips were, she wouldn’t subject herself to that.
Could’ve been worse. She might have ended up with some dirty old man reeking of cigar smoke. Sure, Bastian Evanko liked to pretend he was a vampire and drink human blood—she nearly cringed—but he was decent to look at as long as she ignored the eyes and teeth. If she were completely honest with herself, he was quite sexy.
Another quick touch inside his pants, and he shuddered.
“Do you like that, Bastian?” She slid her other hand down to play with his belt.
He clamped onto her shoulders with his thick fingers, clearly needing to steady himself. “You have no idea how much. It helps to know you’re attracted to me, too.”
Yeah, if she’d only met him under different circumstances, and if he wasn’t paying her for a lap dance, among other things. But she didn’t want to think about the blood or she’d never follow through.
“I can tell you’re nervous. It’s okay. I promise I’ll make this as good for you as it is for me.” He caressed her cheek and tilted her head up to meet his gaze. “Why don’t you let me have a little taste to break the ice, and then you can dance for me before I drink more?”
A shiver rolled over her. There was no holding it back.
This is too crazy.
She yanked her hand out of his jeans and stumbled backward. The room spun, the walls seemed to close in, and heat spread through her body. For a minute, she feared she might pass out. The seductive background music suddenly thundered in her ears and the low lighting dimmed further.
She leaned against the dance pole and reached behind for support. Her heart threatened to jump out of her chest, and her rapid breaths were shallow.
This hadn’t happened to her in a long time. She’d gotten over her panic attacks years ago. But this one slammed into her full force. A few more seconds and she would hyperventilate.
Muscular arms encompassed her. “It’s all right, Nikki. I’ve got you.” Bastian lifted her, and she released the pole then latched onto his neck. “That’s it, you’re fine. Everything will be okay.”
She squeezed her eyes closed to keep the room from spinning and gave herself over to him. Under any other circumstance she would never allow a stranger to do this, but something about him comforted her. Maybe it was the soothing quality of his deep voice, or his protective and powerful embrace. Whatever the case, she didn’t open her eyes until she was on the couch, sitting sideways on his lap.
Her anxiety had lessened in those few seconds, but some dizziness remained until her breathing steadied and she regained her composure. Now she wished there weren’t cameras in these rooms. She’d surely be fired for this. No matter how understanding Bastian was, Kade ran the place with an iron fist. He would never put up with a stripper having a meltdown on a customer—and with an Evanko, no less.
Bastian rubbed circles on her back as she clung to him, shaking slightly. Maybe he was just a big teddy bear.
“Why are you here? It’s obvious this isn’t the right career for you.” Bastian’s compassionate tone and gentle caresses made Nicole believe he actually cared.
“I…I can do this, but I need a minute.”
He looked into her eyes. “I know you can. The problem is you don’t want to. Why take a job like this?”
“There’s no other way to afford living here and paying for college, at least not without compromising all my values.” She hated how cliché that sounded, but she’d truly had no choice. Working at a grocery store obviously hadn’t cut it, and she wasn’t qualified to do anything else. The circumstances of the past had put her farther behind in the career department than most twenty-four year olds.
Finally, her heart rate returned to normal. “I’m sorry. I understand if you want to stop. I’ll find you another dancer.”
“That won’t be necessary.” This time, his voice had a sinister undertone. “It has to be you. I can’t explain why.”
She tried to get up, but he wouldn’t release her. One arm clamped around her waist held her immobile while the other hand pushed her hair off her shoulder, leaving it exposed except for the thin strap of her bra. Smooth fingers glided along her skin, sending a chill through her. When they came to rest on her neck, she noticed his gaze had focused there, as well.
The panic stirred again, but she held it back. If anything went wrong, the bouncers would rush in. Safety always came first at Delacroix. It had been drilled into all the employees’ heads.
Then why didn’t she believe it now? And why had her opinion of Bastian changed so fast? The look in his eyes, however much she could tell with those contacts, went from caring to lethal in an instant.
Her body tensed. She wanted to scream, but what if her inexperience made the situation seem worse than it really was?
Maybe she could salvage her job if she played her cards right.
One bite might not be so bad.
