“Okay.” I hesitated, taking a deep breath and forcing myself to talk. “Is there anything I should know? Any vampire protocol I need to adhere to? Or things I shouldn’t do? Jeez, I’ve no idea what I’m doing! You should’ve picked a more experienced Courtesan ‘cause I’ll probably make a mess of this and end up embarrassing you, or me, whatever comes first. Me mucking up or falling on my backside ‘cause I’m not used to these dang things.”
I wiggled my foot, encased in the amazing shoes that set off the outfit, but scared the hell out of me.
Max frowned and stared at me intently, his lip tugging up on one side. “All you need to know is to stay close by my side. There may be one or two guests who don’t respect the rules. Other than that you’ll be fine, answer any direct questions, otherwise it’s okay for you to be quiet if you feel more comfortable doing that. As for the shoes, they look wonderful and I assure you, I won’t let you fall.”
“Rules?” I asked worried that I knew absolutely nothing about the world of vampires and their etiquette.
“It’s frowned upon if one tries to entice away another’s Courtesan and it’s against the rules to feed on anyone other than those people supplied by the host for that task. But, as I said, some flout those rules, or at least they try to. I assure you if anyone touches you they’ll regret it the very next second.”
I gulped hard at the thought of being amongst Vamps that “flouted” the rules but I didn’t for one second doubt that Max would keep me safe. Why? I didn’t know the answer to that but I felt it deep inside me and tried to smile as he led me downstairs.
Graham stood to attention beside the entranceway, formally opening the door as we reached him. “Your car is waiting, Sir.”
Max raised an eyebrow but let the “Sir” slide. “Thank you. We shouldn’t be too late but you’re released from your duties, Graham. I’ll talk more to you tomorrow about the estate.”
“Certainly.” Graham nodded as we passed him, his friendly smile making me feel a little more at ease in the place I’d be calling home for the next wee while. How long though? That was the question that kept invading my thoughts.
As we walked outside my mind stopped dead at the sight of a huge sleek limo. The uniformed driver, complete with hat, stood to attention with the back door open. I’d never seen one up close, far less been in one. The interior light showing dark leather seating, a small bar complete with a bottle chilling in an ice bucket, crystal goblets sitting next to it.
“Wow,” was all I managed to say as Max moved his arm around my waist, holding me firmly as I stepped onto the cobblestones. One foot wavered on the uneven surface and I realized he’d already foreseen that particular problem for my ridiculous heels. “Thank you,” I whispered as he led me to the vehicle, helping me inside.
Now that was a debacle in itself. Have you tried to slide into a limo in a long gown and heels? No? Well, let me tell you, it isn’t easy, but with his help I just about managed it. Barely.
I watched as he effortlessly joined me, but not where I expected him to sit. No. He sat off to the side in one of the bench seats, his face inscrutable. My heart fell as my mind went on a bit of a rampage of fear. Didn’t he like me? Was he regretting giving me this job?
Hells bells! He’d probably come to his senses and realized his mistake in employing me.
I didn’t even notice the driver moving us off until we passed through the archway and took off along the road leading to the manor house. My eyes flitting to the window as I tried to compose myself. It was at that precise moment I caught a glimpse of two large creatures shadowing the limo: wolves.
Shit!
My heart thundered in my chest as Max leaned forward, his soft whisper against my ear jolting me in surprise. “I saw them but you are safe with me.”
“They must be my dad’s wolves but why are they there?” I couldn’t quite understand but it shouldn’t have been a shock to me. Of course that old bastard was going to keep an eye on me to ensure I didn’t slip away.
“The Alpha is keeping an eye on his prize.”
I agreed with his words but it only helped to raise my unease. How the fecking hell was I going to escape if he had his wolves guarding me the entire time?
“Don’t worry.” Max sat back down, his voice calm and easy. “I assured you that you’d be free and you will be, Flora.”
“Yeah, right,” I scoffed. “With his damn wolves tracking my every move I won’t ever get away from him and his Pack.”
“Yes, you will,” he said firmly. “Wolves cannot follow us where we’re going tonight and when the time is right, I’ll make sure you gain your freedom.”
“But . . .” I started but he held up a hand stopping me.
“No buts.” Max looked annoyed and I wasn’t entirely sure if it were at me, or my father. I hoped the latter.
I nodded, “Okay, no buts, but you told him . . .”
Again he stopped me. “I told him I’d advise when I was leaving. I did not say I’d advise him when you were.”
“Oh.” My mouth fell open at his play on words. “So . . .”
He sighed, frowning furiously at me. “I don’t wish to discuss this again, Flora. I will not allow your father to force you back to the Pack. If you wish freedom, then you’ll have it. This subject is over and done with, so don’t bring it up again. I will discuss things with you when the time comes and something appropriate will be worked out.”
I closed my mouth, pushing myself back into the seat, his tone scaring me more than a little. Shoot, he wasn’t someone to cross, that was plain to see, and I could only pray that he kept his word.
The rest of the journey passed in silence although I kept snatching glances at the brooding vampire who never seemed to stop staring at me. I had no idea what he was thinking but every time I checked, his gaze would lock with mine until I was forced to look away. His eyes seemed to draw me in with a power I’d never before encountered causing my heart to speed up and my breathing to hitch.
I tried to focus on where we were going, telling myself over and over that I could do this. I could be his Courtesan and hoped with all I had that I wouldn’t make a fool of myself, or worse: of him.
~ Chapter 8 ~
I kept my eyes peeled out of the window as we turned off the main road, travelling for a short distance before being stopped by immense iron gates. Even in the darkness I could see how ornate they were, beautiful would be the word I’d use, but as I checked out the high wall, topped with what appeared to be deadly spikes, all I could think was, “Don’t fall, don’t trip, don’t, don’t, don’t do anything to muck this up and don’t get eaten!”
“Relax,” Max said as the car stopped.
“Yeah right,” I mumbled sarcastically as he moved to exit before me.
His outstretched hand was very welcome as I shuffled to get out as ladylike as I possibly could. Damn! All those celebrities on the TV seemed to do this with ease but I had great difficulty trying not to bunch up the silky material of the dress and then I had to reach back and snatch the clutch that I’d totally forgotten. Max must think I’m a total eejit!
I took a moment to gain my balance then gave him a small smile. “I’ll try to not embarrass you in front of your friends.”
He looked confused for a moment before he shook his head. “They’re not friends so don’t worry about it. This is merely protocol. It’s not one that is still practiced in most places, but I’m afraid it is here. I hope to be in and out as fast as is possible without causing offence.”
“Oh.” I wasn’t sure what to say but not staying long was okay with me. More than okay. I didn’t want to be in a confined space with a horde of vampires. Not one bit.
“Close your mouth, you look like a goldfish.” He smirked as he led me toward the entrance.
“Thanks,” I muttered as we took the stairs leading to the already open doorway where two very large and scary looking men stood.
“Maxwell Steel
e, Mr. McArthur is expecting me,” Max said shortly, obviously annoyed the men had blocked our entrance.
One of them made a show of checking a list on a clipboard before looking up and nodding. “Certainly, Sir, everyone is in the ball room, down the corridor on the left and it’s the first door on the right.”
Max merely inclined his head, one of his arms reaching around my waist to hold me closer. At this point I was fighting to control my breathing as we walked towards a room that would be full of vampires.
“Stay close, remember what I told you, and whatever you do don’t stare into the eyes of anyone.” His tone was sharp and had me on edge immediately.
“What? Why?” I breathed out worriedly.
“Just do as I say and I’ll explain later.” He stopped, turning to look down at me. “You look beautiful, Flora, and I don’t want to have to fight tonight so please heed my words.”
Fight? What was he talking about? Why would he have to fight?
“If anyone lays a hand on you I’ll more than likely tear them apart and this is a new tux. I’d rather not have to ditch it because it was covered in blood.”
I gulped, nodded once and reached to grab hold of his jacket. With his arm around my waist I couldn’t take his hand so I just held onto whatever I could as we resumed walking. The noise of laughter, soft music, and talking spilled out of the open door just ahead of us. I took several deep breaths in. If I could survive my time in the Pack, then I’m sure I could do this. Piece of cake: not!
“Don’t forget to breathe.” Max’s fingers tightened on my waist as we breached the door.
Max stopped after a few feet, taking in the room and its occupants. As did I. Only he didn’t seem bothered by the plethora of vampires, or the sight of several of them feeding on women. Some sat with them on their laps whilst others just stood, holding the hair of the female to force their heads to the side as they drank hungrily from their veins.
I swear to shit, my heart stopped. My eyes spinning all around as fear lapped in my belly. Damn it! I wasn’t ready for this. I would never be ready for this. I tried to take a step back but Max held me firmly in place and then I noticed one head, two, three, then more all turning toward us. Scratch that, me, they were all staring at me. Shit!
“Calm down.” Max reached over with his free hand, running a finger down the side of my face. “They can sense your fear, Flora, calm down and breathe. Just focus on me and don’t bother about anyone else.”
I tried but felt myself getting lightheaded until his lips brushed mine. The kiss deepened, his tongue darting in to play with mine, a small growl like sound rumbling up his throat. My senses went into overload at his touch, one of his hands holding the back of my neck, the other tightly holding me against his rock hard body. And that wasn’t the only thing rock hard! I could feel his arousal pressing against my belly and it damn near had my legs giving out beneath me. I wanted nothing more than to be in his bedroom, alone, as he worked magic on my aching body.
When he pulled away I almost groaned aloud, my eyes popping open as his hand cupped my cheek, a smirk on his face. “All right now?”
I felt heat burning up my neck and cheeks with embarrassment as I tried to gather myself together and not think of the show we’d just put on for everyone. “I’m fine,” I snapped, throwing my hair over my shoulder, lifting my head and doing my best impression of someone who was in total control of themselves.
“Good.” Max resumed his position at my side, his arm still around my waist as a rather mousey man headed toward us, his hand outstretched and a lecherous grin on his face.
“Maxwell, so glad you could make my little soiree.” His words were for Max but his eyes were on me and it made me shiver in revulsion.
“Lewis,” Max replied coldly, tugging me closer. “I’m afraid I won’t be able to stay. I have some pressing matters to attend to.”
“Now, now.” Lewis frowned up at Max as he finally tore his eyes from me. He was a good head and shoulders shorter and he had to tilt his head back so he could glare up at Max. “You’re my honored guest, it would be rude to leave so soon.”
I didn’t know a lot about vampire rules or their protocol, but this little sleekit bastard’s tone said it all. I straightened my shoulders and with those damn heels I had on, I was taller than Lewis too. I looked around, not giving him the satisfaction of my attention and that seemed to annoy him some more.
“Your Courtesan doesn’t seem to know how to behave either,” Lewis all but snarled. “She should be more courteous to a host, a very powerful host.”
His veiled threat caused me to turn and look down at him, a huge fake smile on my face and my voice giving the illusion of a girl who didn’t have any sense between her ears as I gushed. “Oh, I’m sorry, I was just looking at all those pretty lights. Did I do something wrong?”
I looked up at Max, his lip twitching at the side as he shook his head. “No, darling, you just upset Lewis here by not saying hello.”
“I did?” I frowned, a hand shooting to my mouth in mock shock. “I’m so so so sorry! Please accept my apology.”
“Accepted,” Lewis said grudgingly as he held out a hand.
I reached to take it but Max’s shot out to grab mine as he again shook his head. “Sorry, Lewis, she’s mine and I don’t allow anyone to touch her.”
“Touchy touchy, Mr. Steele,” Lewis spat out.
“I’m sure you know how it is with a favorite,” Max said coldly. “And as I said, we can’t stay long.”
“If it’s a flying visit then at least let me introduce you to some of my friends.” Lewis’ arm swept to the side. “Follow me.”
“Certainly,” Max replied, keeping a tight hold on me as we traipsed after our obviously upset host.
“Sorry,” I whispered but Max just tightened his hold.
The next hour was draining. My fear spiking several times as lecherous vampires tried, unsuccessfully, to either shake hands with me, or pry me away from Max’s side. His jaw clenched most of the time as he steadfastly refused to allow it. I expected things to escalate several times, but each time Max stared them down and I wondered exactly what was going on as the men’s faces would whiten before they looked away apologizing.
When Lewis disappeared, dragging a young woman behind him, Max took full advantage of his absence. “Come on, we’re leaving.”
His voice was curt but I couldn’t blame him. The night had been fraught with altercations and I couldn’t wait to leave, my steps speeding up just to get out of that damn place. I’d taken in the beauty of the room, the building, but it still looked damn ugly to me because of those that inhabited it. It was somewhere I never wanted to return to and I hoped I never had to.
Max helped me back into the limo and as soon as the door closed behind him I let out a huge sigh of relief. “That was . . . interesting.”
“That’s not the word I’d use.” Max poured me a drink, handing the crystal goblet over and sitting next to me. “The man is an ass and if I planned on staying I’m afraid I’d need to deal with him.”
“He was a bit of a twat and I’ll admit I was feart a few times. I thought, for sure, things were going to get physical.”
“Feart?” Max cocked his head to the side. “What the hell is that?”
“Mr. Steele.” I took a sip of my drink, enjoying the taste even though I had no idea what it was. “You should know that one at least. Feart as in frightened. I was scared, frightened, aka feart.”
“I see.” He looked away for a moment before his gaze returned to mine. “I apologize for that. I never want you to be . . . feart.”
I grinned as he stumbled over the pronunciation. “It’s okay, Lewis was the problem, and those other vampires who obviously have no respect for anyone. I just hope I don’t have to meet too many more like that.”
“You won’t,” Max said firmly. “I don’t associate with that type and I have to admit that I would’ve rather liked to take a head
or two. They don’t deserve to live and they certainly shouldn’t treat any Courtesan like they were doing.”
“How should they treat one?” I asked, wondering if I could get more information on how this whole thing worked.
“I’ve had more than my share and I have felt some kind of connection to one or two, but mostly it’s a business arrangement. However, I have always treated them fairly and with courtesy, dignity and respect. That is, until I met you, Flora. You are different and I have to figure that out because it’s rather distracting and I have a lot of business to take care of before I can leave.”
“Sorry.” I shrugged. “I have no clue about any of this and if you figure anything out, please, let me know.”
“That I will.” Max reached over, taking my glass away, getting rid of it quickly then turning back to me, his eyes raking up and down before he moved closer. “You look stunningly beautiful and good enough to eat.”
I stifled a giggle. “Thought that was the whole point.”
“It is, Flora, it is,” he breathed as his head lowered, whispering against my lips. “I can’t wait to take you to bed and finally make you mine.”
I felt a flutter in my chest as his mouth covered mine in a searing kiss.
~ Chapter 9 ~
I couldn’t catch my breath, his kisses scorching hot and making my body respond in ways it had never before. I was lost to the sensations he caused, well, up until we were both nearly thrown from the seat as the limo screeched to a halt with the driver shouting. “What the hell are those?”
Max grabbed me to save me from falling on my backside, a snarl causing his lip to curl up as we looked outside. There, right in the middle of the road leading to his home, stood three large wolves. The middle one was definitely my father’s Beta, Donald, the other two I couldn’t really focus on because my eyes locked with Donald’s as his head was thrown back and an ear shattering roar split the evening’s silence.
Escape: A Vampire Blood Courtesans Romance Page 6
