Chapter 28

GRACE

Haven paused, his eyes shifting from green to a deep, hungry red. It was clear he craved my blood, but he was also mindful of my current state of distress.

“No, Grace,” he managed to say. “Not today. I had a blood bag from the fridge, so you don’t need to worry.”

“But it wasn’t enough, was it?” I asked.

My words were more of a statement than a question. He might see it as a challenge, but I had a free pass right now. It would be foolish not to use it.

“Grace...” He frowned. “Any blood that isn’t yours will never be enough for me. But I don’t want to add to your pain. You’re already hurting enough. I can wait a few days.”

“I don’t want you to suffer either,” I shot back, my voice firm. “If...if it gets too unbearable, you have to tell me. I don’t mind giving you my blood.”

“I know you don’t usually mind, but you’re already worn out from your condition. I won’t make it worse,” he said, his tone stern. “Now eat. I won’t say it again. You know that.”

I moved to the table and sat down, facing my plate. I began to eat, and as always, the food was incredible. Was there anything he couldn’t do?

I hummed contentedly as I ate, until my phone buzzed with a text. It was from Lee. I missed her and hoped to see her soon.

Lee

Hi girl! How are you doin? I was hoping you would come to a party tomorrow night. We could celebrate your first week at your new job 😉 ❤️

I smiled, hearing her excitement even through the text. I wasn’t sure Haven would let me go, but maybe if I asked nicely...

“Who’s that from?” he asked, watching me from across the table.

“It’s Lee. She’s inviting me to a party tomorrow night. I should be feeling better by then, so I can go, right?”

His jaw tightened, a sure sign he wasn’t thrilled. He’d try to find a reason to keep me here, but he couldn’t keep me all to himself forever.

I wanted to see my friends, to have some fun. I was too young to spend every night in, no matter how sweet or steamy Haven could make those nights.

“Is that how you ask for my permission?”

“Can I please go, Master?” I asked, making myself as vulnerable as I could.

“Fine. But I have conditions. I’ll drop you off and pick you up no later than three a.m. If you want to leave earlier, you text me,” he said.

“Thank you.” I grinned at him. “I will. I promise.”

I stood and wrapped my arms around his neck. I was so excited to see my friend. I couldn’t wait.

“I know I can’t stop you from seeing your friends, but...I don’t like the idea of you being out there alone,” he admitted, worry in his eyes.

“I won’t be alone. Lee will be there, and I’m sure plenty of other girls will be too.”

“Just be careful, okay?”

“I promise. I won’t drink. I don’t have good memories with alcohol, and I’ll stick with my friends.”

I rose on my tiptoes and kissed him gently. He pulled me close, and I could feel his worry, his reluctance to be apart. But it would only be for a few hours. We’d be okay.

I knew that as his “human,” I might not have the right to go out on my own.

But...I was his lady. His partner. He didn’t want to restrict me. I just hoped the other vampires wouldn’t see me having fun without him.

“I like the sound of that,” he murmured against my lips. “But I’m still going to have someone keep an eye on you. That’s not up for debate.”

“Because of the other vampires?” I sighed.

“Yes, among other things.”

“Can I choose?”

“Who do you want?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Phoenix.” I smiled at him. “He’s sociable, and he’s nice.”

He frowned for a moment, but then nodded. Phoenix had been kind last night, so I was sure he’d be a good choice for a party with young adults.

He looked the part too. Not that Haven didn’t look young enough. But I didn’t think he’d enjoy this kind of scene.

“We’ll all go together, then. Phoenix is strong enough to protect you, and he’s young enough to fit in at a party,” he confirmed. “Do you like Phoenix that much?”

“He’s nice.” I shrugged. “And I think he’ll blend in easily.”

“Right...,” he said, his lips tight.

“Are you...jealous?” I teased.

“If I were, I’d kill Phoenix,” he replied, his eyes narrowing. “His life is mine to do with as I please. Don’t worry, love. I know you’ll be safe with him, but I wish I could go with you.”

“Don’t take this the wrong way, honey, but...these kinds of parties don’t seem like your scene.”

“You’re right.” He nodded. “I’m too old for that, and I know you deserve to experience it. As I said, I don’t want to limit your life. I want you to have no regrets when I turn you into a vampire.”

“I know you wouldn’t.” I smiled.

I gave him one last kiss before letting him go. He still had work to do, and I was holding him up.

“I’m going to get back to work. Holler if you need anything.”

“I will, babe.”

He headed back to his office, and I made my way to the living room couch. I shot Lee a text back with a yes, and she seemed pleased with my response.

Lee

I’m glad we’re going to have a girl’s night. 😃

Grace

It’s been so long! Can’t wait to see you 😗

I spent the day trying to relax and battling my body. The cramps were so intense that they could make me nauseous, and they were sapping my energy.

Haven was handling it well, even though I could see a hint of red in his eyes. The scent must be...hard for him. It was a bit awkward, but there was nothing I could do about it.

I returned to work the next day, feeling a bit better. The first day was always the worst, and I was excited to see my girl tonight anyway.

I was checking myself out in our bedroom mirror, dressed in jean shorts and a crop top. I looked like a typical girl my age, which was a refreshing change from the fancy clothes I wore at work.

“You look beautiful, sweetheart,” Haven said from behind me.

“Thanks.” I smiled, turning to face him.

“Phoenix will be here soon, so we should get going.”

I nodded and followed him into the hallway. Phoenix arrived a few minutes later as I was lacing up my sneakers.

“You look great, my lady,” he said, grinning.

“Thank you, Phoenix,” I replied, matching his playful tone.

“Keep an eye on her,” Haven instructed.

“Yeah, of course. Who wouldn’t when she looks this good?” He winked.

I laughed, but Haven didn’t seem amused. Phoenix looked good too, dressed in a shirt that highlighted his muscular physique and shorts. He looked every bit the college student.

I knew he wouldn’t let me down. I turned to Haven and kissed his cheek to ease his tension. He placed his hand on the small of my back, and we headed to the car.

The drive to the bar was short, and I could feel Haven’s anxiety mounting as we got closer. Classes hadn’t started yet, but the parties certainly had.

Haven parked the car in front of the university’s main building, and turned to me. I smiled to reassure him and kissed his cheek.

“I remember the rules. I’ll be fine with Phoenix,” I assured him.

“Good.” He smiled back.

“You can trust me, Sire,” Phoenix chimed in.

“I know, or you know what’ll happen to you.” Haven sighed.

I stepped out of the car, pulling out my phone to let Lee know I had arrived.

“I’ll be low-key. Don’t worry,” Phoenix promised.

“I doubt it.” I chuckled. “You’re a handsome guy, and I’m sure girls will be flocking to you. I know you’ll try, and don’t worry. I won’t get myself into any trouble.”

“I’ve never been to a college party before, so I’ll take your word for it,” he said, grinning.

I was about to ask how old Phoenix actually was when Lee suddenly appeared, making me giggle. She turned to look at Phoenix, her face flushing. Here we go.