“In fact, I tried not to think of Andrea until you asked if I’d had any significant others.” Elissa was once again staring across the prairie.
“It was too painful. I could have given her eternity, instead I allowed her to die a painful death.” Elissa shook her head. Painful. Regrets. The two words went hand in hand when it came to the vampire.
“I thought I was giving her release.” Elissa’s laugh contained anything but humor. “What I did was deny her the one thing she had wanted which was to love me.”
Once again, Elissa was turning this afternoon toward the somber. She was darkness. While she had made strides, it’s who she was. It’s who she always would be.
Cassandra was light. She was love. Already some of Elissa’s darkness had touched her charge. How much more would it take to turn Cassandra exactly like the vampire.
“Hey.” Elissa had turned away from Cassandra. More than that, she had pulled away. “Don’t.” The vampire’s head turned to look at her charge. “You can beat yourself up over past decisions. That’s your right. But don’t you dare pull away from me.”
“But we’ve had a good day.” Elissa was frustrated Cassandra could not see what she was saying. “I’m ruining it by the normal darkness inside me boiling to the top.”
“Enough.” Cassandra practically whispered the word. “It’s you that doesn’t understand. I want to know everything I can about you. I know you have this darkness inside. But you also have so much love. You are a balance of both. And what doesn’t balance out, I’d say I help with that.”
Elissa knew now was the moment. If she didn’t kiss this girl now, she might explode. Yes, there was a part of Cassandra that was a girl.
But there was so much more. An old soul that’s what Cassandra had said about herself once upon a time. It was true. Elissa couldn’t forget that part of her friend.
The vampire gently placed a hand on both of Cassandra’s cheeks. She made certain to watch for any sign this wasn’t wanted.
“I don’t know what I did to deserve you in my life, but I’m grateful.” Elissa closed the distance. Their lips barely brushed. She wanted more, but wanted to make certain she took things slow with Cassandra.
Emerald eyes had closed the instant she had seen Elissa leaning closer. She wanted the kiss. It was almost chaste compared to what she had expected.
Cassandra didn’t even ask. She leaned back in for another kiss. She applied more pressure. A moan escaped her. Now this was a first kiss she would always remember.
Chapter 24
Joseph was saying something but Cassandra had trouble focusing on it. She had hated leaving their picnic area for several reasons.
One, Cassandra hadn’t wanted to return to the bustling of the city. Two, while she had forgiven Joseph, he still wasn’t her favorite person.
The most prominent reason was the kiss. Cassandra was nearly blushing as she could not stop thinking of how soft Elissa’s lips were. They tasted like the wilderness.
“I wish I could stay here instead of going back.” Joseph sipped his coffee. “This town has so much more to offer. And I wouldn’t have to be around my father anymore.”
Cassandra attempted to concentrate. Really she did. But she knew Elissa was waiting for her in their room. She’d declined to join the youngsters. It was easier than making an excuse for why she wouldn’t eat anything.
“I know I could turn the bank around if it was mine. But why bother.” Joseph still hadn’t noticed Cassandra’s attention remained on one thing and one thing only.
When Joseph did notice, it took a hand waving in front of her eyes for Cassandra to return to the restaurant. “I’m sorry. I guess I’m not very good company tonight.”
“That’s all right.” Joseph leaned back in his chair. “Is your friend really all right?” The young man watched Cassandra’s reaction intently.
“Elissa is fine. She’s just not big on crowds.” Cassandra didn’t flinch. She didn’t change her facial expression. She wasn’t certain why Joseph was asking, but she knew that in the future she would have to be cautious. “Just like me, actually.”
“I love the larger cities. It’s why I want to head East.” Joseph said in delight. “I’ve only known Iowa. It’s ok but it’s not like the pictures I’ve seen back East.”
“I was born in the east.” Cassandra drained the rest of her coffee. She was ready to return to her room. “I never cared for it. Though I came from a small village near the coast. Still, I was grateful when my friend took me in and we started traveling together. So far, this is the place I like the most.”
Joseph shook his head. He couldn’t understand how anyone would think this place was better than the exciting bustling of cities out East. “Maybe after I see it, I’ll feel differently. But for now, I want to move. Just have to find a way without my pa finding out.”
Was this like when Cassandra had attempted to tell Joseph his affections weren’t wanted? He would have to learn the hard way. Hopefully it wouldn’t take as much as running into Elissa like with her.
“You do what you feel is best.” Cassandra yawned. She was surprised to discover it was a genuine yawn. The late night interruption had been followed by uninterrupted slumber in the protective arms of her vampire. “I’m sorry. I didn’t think I was that tired.”
“It’s all right.” Joseph hastily rose. He made his way behind Cassandra’s chair and helped her slide it out. “I’ll walk you to your inn.”
“Thank you.” The moment they stepped outside the restaurant, Raven was at Cassandra’s heels. Absently, she leaned down to pat her best friend’s head.
“I hope you have a pleasant rest of the evening. Sleep well.” Joseph bowed before he left Cassandra standing on the wooden sidewalk outside her inn.
Cassandra felt Raven disappear. It was too early for the pup to be able to sneak in unseen. She knew her wolf would be all right, but missed her as much as she had missed Elissa.
Elissa. Cassandra’s heart raced at the thought of her vampire. The kiss. It was difficult to walk up the steps toward their new room.
“Miss Peters?” Cassandra halted on the steps. She turned toward the sound of the voice. “My name is Julius. I represent Yohan Peters.”
Cassandra blanched so much so the man before her thought she would faint. “Are you all right Miss Peters?” Julius took two steps toward the petite blonde.
Before Julius could make it to Cassandra’s side, a tall imposing dark-haired woman was beside her. He could have sworn the hallway was empty.
“Cassandra?” Elissa turned her charge so they were looking into one another’s eyes. It was one of those moments. The vampire had been reading the local newspaper when she had this sensation Cassandra needed her.
“This man represents Uncle Yohan.” Cassandra had trouble speaking. Her voice was shaking, as was her body. She attempted to keep the words her lawyer had said to her flowing through her mind. It wasn’t helping.
Elissa instantly placed herself between the man and her charge. “How may I be of assistance?” The vampire’s eyes were glacial. There was hatred radiating from her entire being.
“I’m here to speak to Miss Peters.” Julius wondered who this woman thought she was. She was interfering with family business.
“And I’m Miss Peters’ guardian. I’m like an aunt to her.” Elissa’s hands balled into fists. She wanted to deck the man. The gentle touch on her lower back caused some of her animal side back in its cage.
Cassandra found her voice. It was easy once she had touched Elissa. Her vampire truly did give her strength. “She is more family than Uncle Yohan or my father ever were. Speak your peace and leave.”
Julius had been told the young woman would be easy to deal with. He would have to have a little chat with his employer. The money he was being paid was not enough. “Very well. I’m here on behalf of Yohan Peters. He will be here by the end of the week. He wants you to remain in Bloomfield until he arrives.”
“I don’t care
what he wants.” Cassandra felt her own hackles rising. “If he has any questions, we’ve hired a lawyer. He can deal with him. Tomorrow, we’ll be heading home.”
“That wouldn’t be wise.” Julius patted the gun at his right hip. “I’ve been told to be quite persuasive.” His expression could only be described as dangerous.
Elissa’s eyes locked on the weapon for a count of ten before her glacial eyes found light blue eyes. She stepped slowly toward him.
With each step, Julius’ hand slipped further down until it was resting upon the handle of the gun. “Before you even pull that, I will have broken your hand.” The feral expression on Elissa’s face caused Julius’ hand to freeze.
“I’ll repeat myself.” Elissa was now standing nearly toe to toe to Julius. “We will be leaving tomorrow, unless our lawyer tells us we need to remain. I think Mr. Spinster will find it very interesting that Yohan sent his associate to make certain we didn’t leave, don’t you?”
Julius swallowed. His employer definitely didn’t tell him how dangerous and intelligent this woman was. They were attempting to work outside the law. If their lawyer was worth anything, Yohan would fail. And if he failed, Julius would most likely not be paid.
“I think I’ll express to my associate your words.” Julius tipped his hat before descending down the stairs. He paused at the door. Elissa’s gaze had not left him. He shivered at the darkness he sensed from the woman.
Elissa finally took Cassandra by the hand and led her to their room. As if knowing she was needed as well, Raven was in the room. She was sitting on Cassandra’s feet.
“That was…” Cassandra shook her head. “Some people just don’t know when to quit. I can’t wait until everything is legal and we can rid ourselves of him.”
“It’ll happen. Right now, you need to attempt to relax. Why don’t you get ready while I…” Elissa didn’t finish. She merely did as she normally did which was to stand by the window and peer out at the world going by.
Cassandra shook her head. One day, how long from now remained to be seen, she would welcome Elissa watching her as she undressed.
An involuntary shudder ran through Cassandra’s body at the thought of Elissa undressing her. She was definitely not the ten-year-old who the vampire had had to nurse back to health and to help bathe.
Without a word, Cassandra made quick work of washing up and dressing in her nightgown. As like the night before, she made her way to her vampire and wrapped her arms around Elissa from behind.
They remained in the embrace for several moments. The connection between the mortal and immortal grew by leaps and bounds. Just being in the other’s presence did that. But touching had it growing exponentially.
Finally, Elissa turned in her charge’s grasp. “Did you and Joseph enjoy your dinner?” There was a tone to her voice. As hard as she tried, she couldn’t not be jealous of the young man.
“Honestly, a certain someone had my attention nearly anywhere but on the company I had at dinner.” Cassandra reached up and stroked Elissa’s cheek.
Cassandra sighed as Elissa leaned into the touch. “I do remember him saying he was attempting to save money so he could move east. He wants to get out from under his father’s influence, not that I can blame him.”
“I guess Joseph isn’t as unintelligent as I thought he was.” Elissa didn’t want to be discussing the young man. And she didn’t want to discuss Yohan, but she would be remiss in her duties as protector if she didn’t.
“As for your uncle, I have to admit feeling a little nervous. It’s not about the law. We have that on our side.” Elissa felt the tremble that flowed through Cassandra’s body. “It’s like all beings. Laws are meant to be broken and common courtesy doesn’t exist.”
“For the rich and powerful or those wanting to be rich and powerful, that is certainly true.” Cassandra sighed. “We’ll continue to face each day like we have been. And plan for a bright future.”
“I like your way of thinking.” Elissa kissed her charge on the forehead. Yes, she wanted to kiss her on the lips, but only after they were finished discussing everything.
“As for your plans, I want to look into what it would take for you to become a published writer.” Elissa squeezed her charge so she wouldn’t comment. “You can write regardless if you are ever published. I just thought it would be something to share your stories with others.”
“Thank you.” Cassandra was finished with talking. “Now, is there a rule that says we can’t lay in bed kissing?” When Elissa actually paled, the young woman frowned. “You don’t want to kiss me?”
“I want to kiss you more than anything in the world.” Elissa released her grasp on her charge. She took Cassandra’s hand in her own and led her to the bed. “I’ll kiss you forever if that’s all you can offer me.”
It took a moment for Cassandra to realize what Elissa was referring to. She smiled brightly. “I love kissing you. And I’ve, um, dreamed of doing more than kissing. It’s just that…”
“You don’t know when you’ll be ready.” Cassandra nodded. “I just don’t want us kissing to feel like I’m pushing you. You are an amazing young woman with a beautiful body and soul. I’ll be honored when you want more than kisses from me.”
“So…” Cassandra crawled into bed. She was sitting, leaning against the headboard. She patted the spot next to her. Before she could blink, Elissa was next to her.
“So…” Elissa took both of Cassandra’s hands in her own. “We can do this anytime you want. We can continue to learn more about one another. I even promise to tell you more about Greece and my early years in The States.”
“I’d like that. Very much.” Cassandra kissed Elissa’s nose before moving to her lips. It was a soft brushing that promised so much more.
Chapter 25
Elissa was appreciative when Mr. Spinster sent a message to the inn that he wanted to speak with them shortly after Cassandra had returned from one last breakfast with Joseph. She only hoped the summons was positive.
The vampire watched as Cassandra readied herself. Once again, Elissa had surprised her charge with a new dress. This was a simple calico print, but it looked amazing on her charge.
It was one thing Elissa knew she would have to slowly adjust her thinking to. She could no longer think of Cassandra as her charge. After their evening spent exploring one another’s mouths, with a little bit of hand wandering thrown in for good measure, she would have to begin thinking of her as her partner.
Partner was a safe word. It elevated Cassandra into an adult roll, without placing any pressure upon her. After all, should they begin a horse ranch they would be equal partners. It only made sense to be thinking in those terms.
“You’ve spoiled me these past two days.” Cassandra also had a new bonnet. She rarely wore one on their small farm, but had felt undressed without one as most of the women of the town wore one.
“You deserve it for putting up with me.” Elissa could have easily ducked out of reach of the swat but allowed for it with a soft chuckle. “I wasn’t able to provide much when we first began our travels. But I’ve become a better provider.”
There was regret tinging Elissa’s voice. Cassandra didn’t hesitate in closing the distance. She kissed her vampire tenderly on the lips. Since she was now allowed to do so, Cassandra would kiss her as often as possible.
“We both have learned a great deal since we began traveling together.” Cassandra winked. Elissa swallowed. “And we both have so much more to learn.”
Another kiss and Cassandra was making her way toward the door. It took a stunned Elissa a moment to recover. With her natural speed, she was able to beat her partner to the door. The vampire held it open and waited for Cassandra and Raven to lead the way.
The hallway was empty. Elissa didn’t care. She was certain Julius was lingering somewhere. If not him, perhaps someone else that Yohan had sent to attempt to intimidate his niece.
One person Elissa shouldn’t have to worry about seeing was Jose
ph. He had left just after breakfast. She wondered how much longer he would remain in the Midwest. If he were to head east, it would alleviate some of her nerves.
Elissa felt the brushing of their fingers. She didn’t hesitate in grasping Cassandra’s hand as they cautiously crossed the street. The vampire had to scoop her partner in her arms as a rider could not control his horse.
After making certain Cassandra was all right, Elissa turned to glare at the young man. He was still attempting to control his stallion. “Wait here.”
The vampire left her partner on the sidewalk in front of their lawyer’s office. Elissa moved with speed and grace over to the reckless rider. She took a firm hold of the reins. She patted the stallion on the neck. Once he calmed some, she whispered in his ear.
As if Elissa had said the magical words, the stallion stood calm. His deep brown eyes studied her. His head shook and she reached out and scratched his nose. She looked up at the rider. “If you don’t know how to handle a stallion, you shouldn’t endanger others. He shouldn’t give you any further trouble.”
Elissa didn’t wait for a response. She deliberately made her way toward Cassandra. She heard metal catching on leather. She leapt toward her partner tackling her to the ground. The bullet hit where Cassandra had been standing.
The vampire was instantly on her feet. Elissa was about to move when a loud growling wolf launched herself at the rider. Fangs sunk into the wrist attached to the hand holding the gun. The rider yelped and dropped his weapon.
Raven landed gracefully. She backed her way toward where Elissa stood ready to pounce if need be. Cassandra was standing behind her vampire. She had one hand on her pup’s head and one on her vampire’s lower back.
“I ought to kill you. I definitely should kill your damned wolf.” The rider cautiously dismounted. When his hand reached for his gun, two sets of growls could be heard. He hesitated before retrieving the gun. Immediately it was back in its holster.
“You can try. But I wouldn’t recommend it.” Elissa felt her hands balling into fists. Her nails dug into her palms. It wouldn’t take much for her to launch herself at the young man.
Bonded Souls Page 15
