Chapter 26

GRACE

Haven’s reaction to the question was immediate and intense. He seized Clark by the neck, slamming him against the wall so swiftly that I barely had time to register what was happening.

I sucked in a sharp breath, but didn’t dare to speak. When the vampires were talking, it was best for me to stay silent.

“What’s it to you?” Haven’s voice was a low growl, his eyes flashing a dangerous ruby red. “You’re mine now. Don’t forget that.”

“Yes...my lord...,” Clark managed to choke out. “I was...just...curious.”

Haven let him go, and Clark crumpled to the floor. I kept my gaze lowered, waiting for Haven to approach. He positioned himself between me and the fallen vampire, a protective barrier that I was grateful for.

The idea of Clark being close to Silas made me uncomfortable. Silas might be Haven’s brother, but every new piece of information I learned about him only increased my unease.

“To answer your question,” Haven’s voice was icy as he smoothed out his clothes, “yes. Silas is back in the country. But keep that to yourself. It would cause a lot of trouble if the other lords found out he was here.”

“I don’t want to cause trouble for my sire.” Clark nodded, slowly getting back on his feet, his neck a vivid red.

I knew how powerful Haven was, even though he’d never fully unleashed his strength on me. But I had no doubt that he hadn’t held back with Clark. He didn’t like the man, and he liked even less that he was in my presence.

“Leave us. We have work to do. Unless there was another reason you came here?” Haven asked.

“I understand, my lord. I just wanted to let you know that I sent you the reports from my team,” Clark replied, straightening his clothes.

“I’ll look at them now. Grace.”

“Master?”

“Call Phoenix from the marketing department. I haven’t received their proposal yet,” he instructed, moving towards his desk.

Clark bowed his head and left the room. I went to my desk and dialed Phoenix’s number. His voice was smooth and charming, and I found myself looking forward to meeting him.

“Mr. Silver is expecting your proposal,” I said after the usual pleasantries.

“Sure thing, sugar. I’ll send it right over,” Phoenix replied, sounding amused. “I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting you yet, so maybe I’ll drop by and deliver the proposal in person.”

“I’m sure Mr. Silver would appreciate that.” I couldn’t help but smile.

“And what about you, hun?” He chuckled. “I’m not really interested in the grumpy old man.”

Haven made a disapproving noise from his desk, and I stifled a laugh. He shot me a glare, and I knew I’d pay for that later. But it was worth it. His jealousy was almost cute.

“I’d be happy to meet you, Phoenix,” I replied.

“Deal. See you soon, Grace.”

I hung up, and before I could even set the phone down, Haven was behind me.

I turned to face him, putting on my best innocent expression. Maybe if I was completely obedient, he’d go easy on me.

“I was going to reward you for staying calm while Clark was here, love, but...I don’t like you flirting with Phoenix.”

“I wasn’t flirting, Master. I was just being polite,” I said, my voice small and contrite.

“Stop being so polite to other vampires,” he snapped, his voice dropping dangerously low. “You only need to be polite to me.”

“I’m sorry, Master. I don’t always know who’s a vampire and who’s not.”

“This is your last warning, Grace. I’ll give you a list, but remember, I don’t like it when you talk to other men like that.”

“Thank you.” I gave him a bright smile. “I’ll make sure not to do it again.”

“Good girl.” He returned my smile.

His phone started ringing, and he moved back to his desk to answer it. I focused on my work, but I couldn’t help but eavesdrop on his conversation, trying to anticipate his needs.

“Yes?” he said, putting the phone to his ear. “Are you fucking kidding me? I’ll try to come by later. Shit... Yeah. I’ll see you then.”

He hung up and turned to me, frustration clear in his eyes.

“I have to go on a trip tonight, so I might be late. Don’t wait up for me,” he said, clearly unhappy with the situation.

“Okay,” I replied, trying to hide my disappointment. “Do you need me to prepare anything?”

“No, honey. It’s a business issue. I’ll be taking a car. I’ll have Phoenix drive you since you’re so eager to meet him.” He smirked. “Phoenix is my second, so he knows better than to touch what’s mine.”

“I only need you, Master.” I gave him a soft smile.

“Such a good girl.” He chuckled. “I’ll reward you tomorrow for sure.”

I loved his rewards the most. It gave me something to look forward to when he returned.

A few hours later, there was a knock on the door, and a tall man walked in. He was as tall and muscular as Haven, but that’s where the similarities ended.

While Haven was intimidating, Phoenix seemed more like a big teddy bear. He had warm, hazel eyes and short, dirty blond hair. His face lit up with a smile when he saw me, and I gave him a small nod in return.

If he was one of Haven’s vampires, he already knew about us and enjoyed teasing. Good to know.

“You’re even more beautiful than I imagined, my lady,” he greeted me, his voice deep and smooth.

“It’s nice to meet you, Phoenix.” I smiled back at the tall man.

“Phoenix, I need you to take her home tonight. Keep an eye on her,” Haven instructed from behind his desk.

“Sure thing.” Phoenix nodded. “It’ll give me a chance to get to know her better.”

“Just remember to tread lightly,” Haven warned, his gaze narrowing.

Phoenix chuckled. “Don’t worry, boss. I know you’re not one for sharing.”

“Good,” Haven said, nodding in approval.

Phoenix turned to me. “I’ll meet you in the lobby to head out.”

“Thanks,” I replied, offering him a smile.

“Anytime, miss.”

With that, Phoenix left the room, leaving Haven and me alone. I didn’t want to say goodbye, but I understood the importance of his work. Patience would have to be my friend.

When it was time to part ways, I walked over to his desk. He rose to his feet and pulled me into a warm embrace, planting a tender kiss on my lips.

“Do you really have to leave?” I asked, my voice sounding more pitiful than I intended.

“Yes, darling, but I’ll be back,” he reassured me, a sweet smile on his face. “I’ll try to make it quick.”

“Promise to hold me tight when you get home?”

He chuckled. “Of course.”

After one last kiss, we headed to the lobby. I could sense his reluctance to leave me with Phoenix, but his trust in Phoenix was evident.

Phoenix was waiting for me, a small smile on his face. He guided me to the car. As I looked back, I saw Haven watching us. I offered him a soft smile, hoping he’d return home early.

Phoenix had a calming presence, and I felt at ease with him. He seemed to know the way to Haven’s house without needing directions. He must have been there more times than I had.

“I’ll stick around until he gets back,” Phoenix said as we entered the house.

“Okay. Can I get you anything?” I asked.

“No need,” he replied with a chuckle. “I’ve been here before. Just go about your evening. You look like you could use some rest.”

“Thanks. Good night, Phoenix.”

“Good night, miss,” he said, offering a gentle smile.

Once inside our room, I picked out the most enticing baby doll from the closet. I was sure Haven wouldn’t be able to resist me. I made sure my skin was smooth and fragrant, then slipped into the baby doll. I giggled at my reflection, feeling sexy.

I hoped Haven would appreciate the effort. I climbed into bed, a smirk playing on my lips. I couldn’t wait for him to come home and find me like this.