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  Still, she says nothing. Just flops in my arms like a rag doll.

  “We’re going to get him back,” I vow, rising to my feet. I can deal with a lot. I can take death and torture and catty teenage girls, but I cannot take the look of defeat in her eyes.

  I storm out of the room, hitting every light switch along the way. When I reach the hall, I call for a maid, shouting loud enough to wake the dead. The first to arrive is the girl I met downstairs earlier.

  “Get her showered and dressed,” I instruct her, knowing I can’t do the job myself. I can’t bear to look into those defeated eyes another second longer. “She will be joining Viktor and me for dinner in the dining room. She needs to feed. I’ll be in Aldo’s office if you need anything.”

  **********

  Turns out sitting in Aldo’s office is no better than facing Lissette. In fact, sitting behind his massive mahogany desk in his oiled leather chair has me freaked the hell out. It’s like admitting he’s gone. No! I will not think that way. We have to find him. For Lissette. For me. For all of us.

  I push the fear aside, focusing on the task at hand. This office was the last place Aldo was seen. Maybe there’s a clue here. Something Viktor and the others missed. I start out slow, tentatively flipping through the papers on his desk. I find contracts for a land sale requiring Aldo’s signature, an outdated report from Commander Smith with some questions scribbled in the margin, a tuition bill for my summer classes at Crossroads, and some notes that look very much like a to-do list. But as I scan the pages, I don’t find anything of interest. It’s all mind-numbingly ordinary.

  As my frustration increases, so does the pace at which I’m tearing through the office. I rummage through his desk drawers, his cabinets, his closet. I check the cushions of all the chairs and the couch. I toss the trashcan and the paper shredder. I pull back the rug, looking for a secret compartment embedded in the floor. And still I come up empty. Maybe I’ve watched too many low-budget films, but I’m committed now. I might as well finish what I’ve started. If there’s a clue, I’m sure it’s in this room, and I’m determined to find it. I move to the bookshelves last, pulling each book out, hoping for a secret room or maybe a hollow book. Hell, I’d settle for a regular, old clue pressed between the pages of one of the classics at this point.

  I’m working my way across the last shelf when Viktor knocks on the open door.

  “I’ve brought the latest update from Commander Smith.” He enters the room and lays the report on Aldo’s desk, all the while surveying the mess I’ve created. “What exactly are you doing?”

  “What does it look like?” I ask, fanning out the pages of The Count of Monte Cristo and giving the spine a good shake. “I’m looking for clues.”

  “Fascinating.” He doesn’t bother to hide his amusement. “If you’re done there, your new guards are outside. I thought you’d want to meet them right away, but if you want to clean up first?”

  “No,” I say, shelving the book and slamming it back into place. Why bother straightening up? They’re going to be here twenty-four hours a day. They might as well get used to me being me. “Go ahead and bring them in. Also, I’ll need the password for Aldo’s computer when we’re through.”

  Viktor leans into the hall and whispers to the guards, presumably warning them about the mess I’ve just created. They march in single file, and my stomach drops when Alex walks through the door. It’s followed by my heart when I see Nikolai close on her heels. What is he doing here? He flashes me a dimpled grin behind Alex’s back, sending my already-frayed nerves into a tailspin. It’s only been a couple of weeks, but I’ve missed him so much. More than I’d realized. It’s all I can do not to run to him and throw my arms around his neck in the mother of all bear hugs, but I have a feeling it wouldn’t be appropriate given the circumstances. He’s here in a professional capacity, and that is how I’m expected to respond. I don’t want to do anything to compromise him in front of his superiors. But really, would it have killed Viktor to warn me?

  I flick my eyes to Viktor, silently demanding an explanation. Surely he knew about this. It’s like a big freaking reunion! Not that I’m complaining about Nik’s presence, but no way do I believe it’s a coincidence.

  “Katia, I trust you remember Alex?”

  “How could I forget?”

  Alex smirks, no doubt recalling our disastrous and adversarial first meeting. I seriously doubt she’s offended by my reply.

  “What is she doing here?”

  “Elder DeVanie continues to be concerned about your safety. He felt it prudent to ensure we have the best protection possible for what remains of the Lescinka bloodline. Alex is the best. She’s here as a courtesy for as long as you need her.”

  I reassess Alex. It can’t have been easy for her to leave DeVanie and come here, even if it was a direct order. If she’s anything like Viktor, her loyalty to her master runs deep, and being separated from him during this incredibly dangerous time would be difficult.

  “Nikolai on the other hand, is fresh from training, but comes highly recommended. They say he’s a natural and quite skilled at hand-to-hand combat. I believe you two know one another from school?”

  “Yes,” I say, studying him as if I’m trying to remember his face. I swear I should get an Emmy for this performance. “I believe I’ve seen you around campus.”

  Viktor’s statement confirms what I’ve already guessed. We are to maintain the appearance of a completely professional relationship. Fine by me. Just having Nik by my side will be a comfort. It’s one less person to worry about and one more person I can speak to freely as I navigate the murky waters of the Council.

  “If there’s nothing else you need right now, I’ll show these two around and review our security protocols with them. I want to ensure they are prepared to hit the ground running tomorrow.”

  I nod my consent. “I’ll see you at dinner?” I ask, praying he’s not going to leave me to face Lissette alone.

  “Of course.”

  I turn to Alex and Nik. “Welcome to the manor, and thank you both for coming. If there’s anything you need during your stay, please let Viktor or me know.”

  Chapter Twelve

  By the time I get back to my room, I’m ready to crash. Mental exhaustion has swept in and a few hours of solitude is the only cure for what ails me. Dinner with Lissette was torture. She sat there like a ghost, not moving, not speaking, not feeding. Finally, I had to force the cup to her lips and ease the blood into her mouth. It wasn’t pretty. And I’m not looking forward to repeating the process tomorrow.

  Settling in front of my vanity, I find everything just as I left it. That’s comforting, at least. I grab a brush and stare at my reflection in the mirror, wondering if it’s possible the events of recent weeks have physically aged me. I certainly feel older. It’s time to light a fire under the Linkuri. They’re not doing enough to find Aldo as far as I’m concerned. And then all those guards standing around watching every move we make? Only criminals deserve that level of scrutiny. I rip the brush through my hair without mercy. I will never forget the heat that burned down my neck as they watched me feed Lissette. Talk about humiliating.

  I slam the brush down on the marble countertop and decide to speak with Viktor about the security. I refuse to feel like a bug under the microscope in my own home. Don’t I have enough crap to deal with without all the extra eyes watching my every move? I know they want to keep me safe, but it’s smothering. I’ll suffocate long before the Order gets to me. Maybe I should count my lucky stars there’s not a guard camped out next to my bed right now. Thankfully, they’ve agreed to remain in the hall, affording me some privacy.

  Okay, focus. Change your clothes and get some rest. Getting all worked up isn’t going to change anything. I head to my closet and rummage around for some pajamas. I shimmy out of my jeans and step into a pair of sleep shorts before swapping my sweater for a soft, cotton tank. Too bad I can’t sleep for like a whole day. I could use the rest to prepare
for what’s coming. Tomorrow the real strategizing begins. If we don’t act fast, the trail will go cold. If it hasn’t already.

  Just before I step out of the closet, I hear movement in the room. I freeze, stopping dead in my tracks. Fear trickles down my spine. My senses come alive, and my fangs drop, preparing for a fight. No one should be in here. Especially not someone who’s trying so hard to remain undetected.

  Crouching down on the balls of my feet, I spring from the closet, going on the attack. Before I can process the intruder’s face or land a single blow, I find myself pinned to the floor, flat on my back. I open my mouth to scream, and a hand clamps down over my lips, cutting off my cries before they start. Sometimes having fangs comes in handy. I bite down. Hard.

  His groan of agony is music to my ears until I open my eyes and see Nikolai hovering above me, looking like an angel. A dark angel, but an angel nonetheless. One who’s bleeding profusely from his ravaged palm.

  “I suggest you keep it down or we’ll have a hoard of Linkuri swarming us.” His blue eyes dance with laughter despite the fact that I just took a chunk out of his hand. And yeah, that pretty much sums up our relationship. “Unless, of course, that’s what you want?”

  “What are you doing here?” I whisper-scream, wriggling out from under him and climbing to my feet. He does the same, massaging his hand and wiping the blood on his black T-shirt.

  “I wanted to see you. Alone,” he explains, leaning casually against the dresser and looking to-die-for gorgeous in his black leather jacket. Must be standard issue for the Linkuri. It’s not quite Nik’s style, but damn if it doesn’t suit him. “I had no idea you’d try to kick my ass. Or scream like a girl.”

  Hell’s bells! He’s never going to let me live that down. And since when is my first instinct to scream anyway? How lame is that? It doesn’t matter. None of it matters now. Nik is here.

  I bolt across the room and leap into his arms, wrapping my legs around his waist. Good thing Nik has quick reflexes. He catches me, folding me into his arms as I press my lips to his, devouring him with my kisses. He groans, and it only encourages my reckless abandon. I slip my tongue between his lips, seeking a deeper connection.

  Wild. That’s the only way to describe how I feel right now as my lips slant over his. Heat curls in my belly, searing those damn butterflies that Nik usually brings around. I’m out of control, and I know it. Problem is, everything I feel is burning a little hotter right now, my emotions simmering just below the surface. I know it’s the stress, but for once, I don’t mind because how could this possibly be wrong? Finally, I pull back, losing myself in the scorching heat of Nik’s gaze.

  “You know, I could get used to this.”

  “Sorry.” I drop my feet to the floor as he caresses my cheek, sliding his hand below my jawline and cupping my chin. He tips my head back so that our lips nearly touch, and I quiver with anticipation.

  “Don’t ever be sorry.” Then he gives me the most tender, heartfelt kiss, and I’m putty in his hands. It’s an unusual outpouring of emotion for both of us. Once again, I blame the circumstances. Because I am definitely not a creampuff.

  “Things have been so crazy,” I say, tucking my hair behind my ear and taking a steadying breath. “I’ve missed you so much. I was afraid…”

  “I know.” He wraps me in his arms again, pulling my body flush with his. With my ear pressed to his chest, I can hear the steady beat of his heart calling me home. Apparently absence does make the heart grow fonder. Or at least acknowledge those secrets it keeps tucked away where the conscious mind can’t refute them. “It hasn’t been easy for me either. I’ve missed you too.”

  “Is it okay that you’re here?”

  “Of course. You’re my assignment now. I think Viktor pulled some strings to get me assigned here. You’re way too high profile for a newb like me, even if I am ridiculously good with my hands.” He gives me a suggestive grin, and it reminds me how he used to fluster me when we were training together. Some things never change.

  “I see the Linkuri have done wonders for your ego.”

  He shrugs brazenly. “Honestly, I think Viktor figured you could use a friendly face.”

  “Good to know, but not exactly what I meant, Nik.”

  “Oh, you meant is it okay for me to be in your room? Well, technically, no. I’m pretty sure Alex would have my ass if she knew. She lectured me the entire flight here about the importance of this job.”

  I laugh. That sounds about right. It’s good to know Alex’s attitude isn’t reserved just for me.

  “You’re worth the risk. We’ll just have to be very careful. Besides, I’m on the morning shift, and I wanted to see how you’re holding up.”

  I roll my eyes, but the gesture is lost on Nik. “Just peachy.”

  “I’m serious, Katia.”

  “The truth?” I ask, moving to my bed and tucking my legs beneath me. Nik deserves the truth. He can handle it. And so I unload the burden of my mind on him. “I’m ready to crack, and we’ve barely scratched the surface. We have no leads on the Order or Aldo. The Council is a mess. Lissette is practically catatonic, and something’s not right with Shaye.”

  He sits on the bed next to me, grasping my hand in his. “So we start fresh in the morning. You’re stronger than you think, Katia.”

  “So I keep hearing.”

  He ignores my sarcasm. “And you’re not alone. Viktor and I will be by your side every step of the way, but it’s time to take charge and start delegating. You can be a leader, and that’s what your people need right now.”

  I flop back on the bed. I’m just so tired. Tired of politics and pep talks and the watchful eyes waiting for me to screw up.

  “Tomorrow,” I promise, unsure whether I’m trying to convince Nik or myself. “I’ll start tomorrow. Can you just hold me tonight?”

  “I wouldn’t be anywhere else.”

  I drift off to sleep wrapped in the comfort of Nik’s arms, knowing there’s not a safer place in the world for me.

  **********

  When I wake in the morning with matted hair and fierce morning breath, Nik is gone. I’m alone in the bed with only the fluffy down comforter wrapped around me. I throw the covers back and stretch, arching my back. Last night was the best night of sleep I’ve had since leaving Crossroads. I feel reenergized, recharged. Ready to face the day. Although I do sort of wish Nik had stayed. I remind myself that he’s on the morning shift, so he may very well be outside my door, already standing guard. This is probably for the best, anyway. The last thing we need is to get caught fraternizing. Alex would have him reassigned in a heartbeat.

  I quickly shower and dress, pulling on a pair of cargos and a T-shirt before heading down to Aldo’s office. Nik escorts me. We walk in a comfortable silence, pretending to be no more familiar than Elder and guard.

  I’ve just settled into the messy office when Viktor joins me. “Looks like you could use some help.”

  “I wouldn’t say no.” I scoop a pile of papers from the floor and begin sorting them so that they can be refiled in Aldo’s cabinet. We work quickly, both of us wanting to move on to more pressing tasks.

  We’re nearly finished restoring order to Aldo’s office when a maid arrives with fresh blood. It’s the same girl who greeted me last night. I expect I'll be seeing a lot more of her.

  “Perfect timing.” I take my seat behind the desk, pushing the last stack of papers to the side. I’ll file them when we’re done feeding. It’s not like they’re going anywhere. My stomach clenches, reminding me that I’m starving. I’ll need to feed more frequently to combat the drain of prolonged stress.

  I watch as the girl gracefully places two silver goblets on a side table and begins to fill them from the pitcher she carries. She works silently, careful not to spill a precious drop.

  I can’t help but wonder how she can sit here and serve a pure family while her kindred are out murdering and raining down anarchy for equality. It doesn’t seem right. Does this girl want t
o claw my eyes out? Could she be part of the Order? They could be anyone, anywhere, right? Why not her?

  Aldo’s gone. Maybe there are traitors in the house. Although, are they really even traitors? They just want what all sentient beings want, don’t they? Freedom. Equality. A voice. It’s no less than they deserve. Is that so wrong?

  “Why are you here?” I ask, curious to know what’s brought her to the manor and why she stays. She doesn’t answer, and I realize she assumes I’m speaking to Viktor. After all, why would I address her? The house staff are to be invisible, neither seen nor heard as they look after us. Shame cuts through me. I don’t even know her name. “Miss? What is your name?”

  She turns slowly, looking from me to Viktor and back again. She wipes her hands nervously on her apron. Probably wondering what mistake she’s made to draw my attention. “Lena. My name is Lena.”

  “Lena. That’s a pretty name,” I say, trying to put her at ease. I’m the last person she should fear. “Why are you here, Lena?”

  “I’m sorry, I’m afraid I don’t understand the question.”

  “Why are you here?” I ask again, the need to understand this girl growing with each encounter. “You must hate us. I’m sure this isn’t how you imagined your life. There must be something else you’d rather be doing.”

  Her eyes look like they’re about to pop out of her head. I’m guessing no one’s ever really asked her what she wants before. Viktor clears his throat. Another warning. Again, I ignore it. I need to understand the vamps behind this rebellion. How else can I fulfill my duties?

  “Everyone has dreams,” I continue. “Why should you be any different? Me? I wanted to join the Linkuri, but that hasn’t quite worked out. If you could do anything, what would you do?”

  She smiles. Maybe we aren’t so different after all.

  “I wanted to be a writer once, but that was before my transformation. Now? I’m just happy to be working for such a good master.” She picks up her tray, making it clear she does not intend to carry this conversation much further. “As I said before, your uncle is a good man. We look forward to his return. Perhaps then you will be able to fulfill your dream.”