Dragon Reign: A Paranormal Love Tale

by Pressley James

The phone shrilled again.

  And it had already rung over a dozen times.

  “Maybe we should answer that. It may be important.” Attempting a smile, she turned away. “It’ll only take me a minute to finish up here.”

  “Probably Garcia calling to ride my ass, again,” he muttered.

  Though, he did understand the detective’s reasoning.

  An official crime scene didn’t need any unnecessary complications to foul it up. And they’d found enough prints to put the perpetuator behind bars for the remainder of his earthly years. Too bad the prison bars wouldn’t be strong enough to hold him. “I’ll take care of it,” he said, already moving from the closet. A second later, he answered the phone. “Hello.”

  Only fierce breathing sounded on the other end.

  “You sick bastard,” Xander raged. “What do you want?”

  “She belongs to me,” the crazed vamp hissed violently. “Always.”

  “You’re a bigger fool than I thought, and obviously, you don’t value that pathetic life of yours,” he snapped, casting a cautious glance towards the closet, and to his relief, she was still inside bustling about. Turning away, he tightened his hand along the phone’s receiver. “Damn you, you sick fucker. Stay away from her.”

  “Never,” the deranged killer laughed menacingly. “As usual, you’re all wrong about me, Sullivan. Let’s digress a bit, shall we? Correct me if I’m wrong. But, for the second time, didn’t I manage to pull another one over you? You’re barely twenty or thirty feet away, and still you couldn’t protect her. If you hadn’t showed up, things between Nicole and me could have gone much---”

  “I’m going to kill you, Gates. Do you understand me?” he vowed, his grip nearly crushing the phone’s receiver. “And nothing will give me greater pleasure than wringing the life from your lifeless body.”

  “Isn’t she beautiful?” the vamp continued. “Those brief moments that I shared with her were monumental. Sure, she was afraid. But she won’t be for long. When we grow closer, she’ll finally understand that I am the only man for her. I’m the only one that she---”

  “You sick bastard. You’ll never get the chance to hurt her.”

  “I’m so close that you can’t even see me,” Gates growled. “And that makes me a lethal weapon.”

  “You’re a damned coward. And only a coward would resort to spineless tactics like yours. Come on, Gates,” he snapped. “Stop hiding in the shadows and face me like a real man.”

  “A real man,” the crazed vamp scoffed. “Do you really believe the illusion, Sullivan? You’re a monster---”

  Seething, he struggled to contain his rage. “Do you think I give a damn what you think about me? Call me what you want. But, you stay away from her.”

  “No, I won’t. And I’m not going to allow you or anyone else to get in my way.” The vamp gave a cold laugh. “You and me---we have a score to settle. And once you’re out of the way, I will be heavily compensated in ways that you can’t even imagine.”

  “You’re a dead vamp walking. And you can count on me to deliver your eulogy when I hurl you into the pit fires. But, I’ll warn you that my words won’t be all that touching. As a matter of fact, I’ll be more than happy to point out all of your murderous faults.”

  “You have no idea who you’re dealing with, Sullivan. And before long, you’ll realize that you’re digging your own earthly grave.” The killer laughed coldly. “Look in the mirror, take a good look at yourself. We’re one in the same---cut from the same cloth. Don’t get caught up in the fairytale, Sullivan. A monstrous heart beats in your chest just as it does in mine. Remember that.”

  The phone went dead on the other end.

  Gripping the phone in a bone-crushing fist, he slammed it down, almost shattering the table’s smooth glass top, and his rage swathed him with its thickness.

  The madman had done the impossible, he mulled, raking a hand through his hair. In a one-two-three punch, he’d awakened the killer inside of him. And his deadly primal response only made Gates’ last words ring true.

  He was a monster.

  Just like him.

  He glared at the small clock.

  The timepiece emitted the hour in bright, crimson red numbers, or was it merely the hot anger that shadowed his eyesight as he stared at it.

  Time was running out.

  And maybe the deranged vamp had more sense than he’d given him credit for.

  He’d definitely done his homework, too.

  Now, he knew his name, and that he was a private investigator. That only meant that he definitely had to be on high alert. The stakes were now definitely higher. And there was no telling what the serial murderer would do next.

  But, he’d be ready.

  “It was him, wasn’t it?”

  He turned around to face her, and instantly, his anger drained away.

  The stark fear was etched across her beautiful face, and her hands trembled as she clutched the clothing close to her body. “Please, answer me,” she said softly.

  A bold lie rested on his lips, but wouldn’t come forward. He’d do anything to protect her even if it meant a small, white lie or flimsy excuse about Garcia.

  But, she deserved the truth.

  “Yes,” he admitted reluctantly. “Nicole, listen to me---”

  “No!” she sobbed. “No more lies or useless words of how I’m going to beat this!”

  Releasing an enraged cry, she hurled the clothes to the floor.

  Stopping before her, he reached out. “Nicole---”

  “No, it will never be alright! And don’t tell me that it will be! No, no, no!” Pummeling her small fists against his chest, she struggled as he pulled her close. “Let me go, let me go!”

  “Baby, you’re not alone,” he rasped, embracing her. “You’re not alone.”

  Weakened, emotionally drained, she sagged against him. “I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry,” she cried, burying her face into his chest. Then, she raised her tear-stained face. “What’s going to happen to me, Xander? Why is he doing this?”

  “I swear to you, I won’t let him hurt you. Not ever again,” he said, staring into her face.

  She rested her head against his chest again. “Promise me, we’ll get through this.”

  “I promise,” he whispered, tightening his hold.

  He’d save her.

  Even if it meant dying.

  ***

  At exactly 2:00 a.m., they entered his apartment.

  Closing the door behind them, he flicked the lights on, and bright white light flooded the wide spacious area. He pulled her small tote bag more snugly along his broad shoulder. “Come on, let’s get you settled in,” he said, glancing at her. “Are you okay?”

  Pale, face tightly pinched, eyes red-rimmed, she clutched the satchel with a death grip. Taking a shaky breath, she nodded. “I’m fine.”

  “You’re safe here,” he replied strongly, studying her. “I want you to believe that.”

  He’d make sure of it.

  The crazed vamp didn’t know it.

  But he had a trick or two up his own sleeve.

  “Let me take that,” he muttered, taking the satchel from her hands.

  As he ventured further into the room, she didn’t move from the door.

  Casting a worried glance at her, he dropped the luggage by the large stuffed armchair. In a few long strides, he returned to her. “I don’t think it’ll take you too long to get used to this place,” he muttered, stopping before her. “And like I said, there’s not that much difference between yours and mine. Except the fact that my furnishings have a more decidedly, masculine touch. Come on, we can’t stand here the rest of the night.”

  Taking her hand, he led the way.

  Pausing at the living room’s entrance, his gaze swept the open area, and he quickly assessed the modern furnishings.

  A large, black leather sofa sat in the center of the room, complimented by a mahogany-hued sofa table similar to hers. Adjacent to the patio do
ors, the pair of juniper bonsai trees rested on two small tables, and even from here you could see the fine, water droplets as they fell from its leaves. Thick, beige carpet covered the floor, stretching throughout to all the rooms except for the dining area and kitchen.

  He glanced around the large apartment speculatively.

  In no time, she’d be able to maneuver around the place without his assistance, he mulled, swinging his gaze to her.

  Though she tried to hide it, uncertainty filled her features.

  “Nicole, I don’t want you to worry ---”

  “Xander, please just stop,” she interrupted, pulling free. “I know that you mean well. But, I’m not the best company right now. I’m exhausted and I just want to rest. Is it too much to ask if I can close my eyes, wake up, and pretend that tonight never happened? Tell me that everything was all a bad dream. Can you tell me that?”

  “I’d be lying if I did,” he said regretfully.

  “I don’t want to think about it anymore, okay?” she sniffed, brushing the single tear from her cheek. “And I apologize for being such an emotional wreck. Usually, I’m much stronger than this. So, forgive me.”

  “You have no reason to apologize to me. It’s understandable, considering everything that you’ve gone through tonight.”

  “Thank you.” She gave a sad smile. “And that seems to be the only thing that I’ve said to you since the day we met.” Sighing, she walked towards the sofa. “It’s been a long night. I’m going to get some sleep.”

  He arched a brow. “What do you think you’re doing?”

  “What does it look like? I’m getting ready to lie down, what else?” she retorted sharply, turning to face him.

  Shaking his head, he stopped before her. “No. I’m taking the sofa while you take the bed.”

  “Xander, I’m not going to inconvenience you anymore than I already---”

  “No, you’re sleeping in my bed,” he said softly, laying a finger against her trembling lips. “That settles it, and I’d at least like to believe that I’m a gentleman.. And besides that, you’ll hurt my male ego. Now, you don’t want to be responsible for that, do you?”

  Her gaze softened. “Of course not.”

  “Then don’t give me a hard time,” he said, dropping his hand. “Wait here. I’m going to carry your luggage to the bedroom, and then we’ll get you settled in for the night.”

  “Ok,” she nodded, sinking down on the sofa.

  Moving back to the armchair, he grabbed the luggage.

  His gaze went back to her.

  Why did it seem that she was where she belonged?

  ***

  A moment later, they’d reached the bedroom.

  “The layout of the bedroom is the same as yours,” Xander said, leaving her at the door. “Just give me a second. I’ll move my weights and other equipment out of the way. And then, we’ll unpack your things and get them put away.”

  Nodding, she listened as he scurried around the room.

  The guilt surged through her again.

  Hadn’t she usurped his life enough as it is?

  Taking cautious steps, counting off in her head, she moved towards the bed, and her relief was palpable when she reached it. And she sensed him close by as he moved about. Clearing her throat, she said, “Xander. This isn’t fair to you. I shouldn’t be sleeping---”

  “Knock it off, sweetheart. My mind is made up, and there’s nothing you can say to change it. Now, hand me your duffle bag, and I’ll help you put your things away. Just tell me what goes where or how you want them coordinated.”

  The minutes ticked by quickly as she iterated where to place her things. Working fast, he opened and banged the drawers shut as he placed her clothing in while removing his. And the moments grew tenser when she passed him her toiletry bag. With a calmness typical of a man with his sexy caliber, he casually asked where she wanted her brassieres and other undergarments placed.

  Undoubtedly, he’d probably fingered thousands of lingerie in his lifetime. And what woman wouldn’t succumb to his charms, she mulled as jealousy stirred within her.

  “Alright, I think we’ve got everything put away. The towels are in the linen closet. Shampoo and shower gel is located in the stall. Just let me know if you need anything else. You good?”

  Blushing, she nodded. “Yes.”

  “Well, I suppose it’s good night. Call me if you need anything.”

  As the door closed behind him, she stood with a dazed look. “It can’t be,” she murmured, saying the words slow. “How is it even possible?”

  His masculine scent overpowered the room.

  And there it was…

  The cologne…

  The same musky cologne that she’d smelled on countless nights---

  “Maybe I wasn’t dreaming after all,” she said as hope surged through her. “All these nights, maybe we have been together.” Then, blowing an exasperated breath, she made her way towards the bathroom. “Who am I kidding? Nothing as romantic as that would ever happen between Xander and me.”

  Moments later, she’d showered and was refreshed.

  She tugged the thin thigh-length gown over her head.

  Twisting her long tresses in a loose bun, she treaded towards the bed. Reaching out, she pulled the bed covers back before climbing onto it. She fell back against the pillows. And like many nights, the suffocating feeling overcame her. The fresh tears pooled in her eyes. “No, I can’t do this,” she whispered tearfully.

  Shoving the covers off, she left the bed.

  “Think Nicole, think,” she muttered, reaching out as she counted her steps. “You’ve done this for five years, so you can do it now and get around this place.” But, still, it was hard to squelch her relieved tears when she reached the door, and momentarily, she embraced her triumph.

  She paused.

  Had she taken total loss of her senses?

  Taking an unsteady breath, she opened the door.

  Several moments later, she found herself in the living room, standing a few inches from the sofa. Stooping over slightly, she reached out with a shaky hand and encountered nothing but hot naked flesh.

  Oh my gosh, she mulled, appreciating the feel of his tautness. The wicked thoughts filled her senses, and for a moment, she feared what action she’d take next. Gulping hard, she shook him gently. “Xander,” she whispered. “Are you awake?”

  With a start, he came up. “Nicole? Baby, what is it?”

  “I---I can’t sleep. I thought that I could handle this tonight. But, I’m so scared. And I don’t want to bother---”

  “Hey, hey, you’re not bothering me at all,” he interrupted, sliding over to pull her down alongside him. “Nicole, you’re safe here. I promise.”

  She bit her lip. “I know that my request may go beyond your normal duties. And I know that you’re not a babysitter. B—but could you just sit with me for a little while, I mean, just until I fall asleep? Please?” she asked on a final whisper.

  “Come on,” he said huskily as he stood.

  She didn’t protest as he grabbed her hand before leading her. Within seconds, they were standing alongside the huge bed. The mattress dipped slightly as she crawled into the bed. Carefully, she arranged the pillows behind her before sinking against them. Then, her voice trembled as she asked, “C-can you sit beside me for awhile?”

  She held her breath.

  For a brief second, he hesitated.

  “Slide over,” he ordered thickly.

  Dragging the covers with her, she moved to the middle.

  The bed dipped under his weight as he slid onto it, and again, his musky scent assailed her senses. Turning, he plopped the pillows behind his back, and as he moved, he brushed against her.

  And again, she fought to breathe.

  “Get some sleep,” he said quietly, flicking the table lamp off.

  Clenching the covers tight, she pulled them up, and then turned on her side to face him. “Aren’t you going to get any rest?” she asked shyl
y, wrapping her arms around the pillow.

  “In awhile,” he said huskily, shifting on the bed. “I don’t want you to worry about anything. You’re safe now. Get some rest.”

  She closed her eyes.

  Still, it was impossible dismiss his presence.

  The warm heat radiated from his body, sending her senses into a tailspin.

  Sinking deeper into the pillows, her sinful thoughts wandered.

  Could he be more perfect, she mulled, hugging the pillow closer.

  Her dream lover…

  Richly blessed with a body that was undoubtedly hard, firm, and taut, complete with hard muscles that probably rippled across his chest, leading to a well-trimmed abdomen that’d seen many hours in the gym, she thought with a guilty flush.

  And now, the only thing she wanted to do was throw herself in his arms---

  “Goodnight,” she said, blushing, turning her back to him.

  “Goodnight. And by the way, this is going to cost you extra,” he teased.

  Her smile wavered in the darkness.

  Wasn’t she already paying the biggest price of all?

  Her heart.

  Chapter 11

  In her dream, he kissed her.

  It was deep.

  Passionate.

  Drugging.

  And she thought she’d drown under its onslaught.

  Willingly, she accepted that fate.

  And then his lips fell away.

  “Don’t stop,” she protested weakly, burrowing her face deeper into his broad chest. She inhaled sharply, taking in a whiff of his pure raw masculinity. Her senses mewed in satisfaction. The musky cologne was subtle, yet heady as it teased them.

  Moaning her pleasure, she edged closer to him.

  The sheet dropped lower as his arm tightened around her.

  Her heartbeat thudded faster.

  “Xander,” she whispered again, helplessly drawn to the forbidden ecstasy.

  She reached out.

  Slowly, she traced an explorative path along his chest on upward, finally halting at the stubble covering his squared jaw line. Her breath caught as the finely spiked hairs tickled her fingertips, and even that simple gesture was filled with erotic wonderment.