by Kym Grosso
“What’s that supposed to mean?” she asked.
“It means my boy doesn’t get out often and when they do see him, they all know some shit’s about to go down.”
“Is he serious?” As the car slowed and the dim factory lights lining the entrance came into view, she reached for his hand.
“I prefer my solitude. I keep my vampires in line. That’s all that matters,” Quintus explained.
“He’s what they call in celebrity circles…reclusive.”
“I’m not into the bullshit. I’m good without it.” Quintus didn’t see the point of mingling on a regular basis with supernaturals who weren’t friends.
“How long has it been since you’ve gone to one of these things?” she asked.
“Twenty years give or take. New York City isn’t that old when you look at it in the grand scheme of things. Look…up there. That’s where we’re going.” Quintus slid his arm around her, and pulled her close. “Just breathe.”
“What is that?” she gasped.
The body of a beheaded man sat on a barrel, illuminated by red candlelight. Rats scurried around the body as partygoers milled toward the entrance.
“If it’s a vampire, he’s rogue. Not one of ours,” Viktor said.
“They just leave him out there?” Her face wrinkled in disgust.
“It’s a warning. Although it’s a party, there’re dangerous individuals in attendance,” Quintus told her.
He sensed her fear as it rolled off her, and although he wished he could comfort her, the emotion would serve her well. They needed to exercise extreme caution, and this would provide a lesson in her practice, controlling impulses when faced with danger.
The car rolled to a stop, and he nodded at Viktor. “An hour tops. I address the community and speak with Absinthe. Got me? Stay with Gabriella.”
“You ready?” Quintus asked her. She nodded and he briefly brushed his lips to hers, tasting her honeyed mouth. No time to be distracted; he wore a mask of indifference and readied to exit the car.
The limo door creaked open and the driver stood solemnly waiting in silence. Quintus stepped onto the black macadam, and extended a hand to Gabriella. She instantly broke out in gooseflesh as an icy wind gusted, and clutched her velvet shawl closed. He walked quickly past the guards, giving them a nod. They acknowledged the ancient vampire with respect, bowing to them as they passed.
Quintus sensed Viktor close behind. His jovial brother had switched his light demeanor to the dark persona that often cloaked his mind. Tonight was business. As he’d done over the centuries, Quintus stepped into battle willing to employ diplomacy, knowing the reality was he’d be lucky not to kill someone within the hour.
Chapter Eight
Shivering masked the fear causing her to tremble. Gabriella took a deep breath as they walked, spying the dead body out of the corner of her eye. Act nonchalant. You can do this. No, fuck no, I can’t. Yes…get out of here alive. Her emotions bordered on explosive as they reached the tall purple wooden doors.
Sensing danger, Gabriella’s wolf howled, itching to shift, but she forced her back into the recess of her mind. She’d suspected all the wolves would do the same. With the full moon, it would be nearly impossible to last more than a few hours. Although she hadn’t told Quintus, she worried about her ability to control her beast around the other wolves.
A low scratchy voice drew her out of her contemplation. Gabriella raised her gaze to the tall thin man who extended his hand, ushering them through the door. She struggled not to stare at his white tuxedo which had been stained in blood. Her heart pounded in her chest, recalling the body that sat only a few feet away from the entrance.
“Sir,” he greeted them, his focus settling on Gabriella. “I do hope you and your young lady friend have a lovely time.”
She nodded politely as he smiled at her, revealing his brown decayed teeth.
“We won’t be staying long,” Quintus growled at him and protectively wrapped his hand around her shoulders. “Viktor.”
“Right behind you.”
“Did you see that guy? What was he?” she whispered, her nose nuzzled against his lapel.
“A ghoul.”
“A ghost?” she asked, clutching at his arm.
“Yeah, sort of. He’s more or less a lower level demon. Not quite dead but no longer alive.”
“How?” Gabriella kept her voice low, attempting to conceal her shock.
“The witches…he was human.”
“Emphasis on was,” Viktor added, his lips brushing her ear.
“A few hundred years ago. A witch put some sort of spell on him,” Quintus explained.
“Name’s Trev. Poor bloke’s been stuck like that for a while,” Viktor said.
“Not much of a life. They let him out for the occasional haunting. He’s got this gig of course, but he’s on a tight leash.”
“Not tight enough. That man outside missing his head…he did that?” Gabriella asked as the din grew louder.
“Most likely. Or had a snack before he attended,” Viktor confirmed.
“No, he doesn’t. He eats them?” Shock rolled through her at the thought.
“Sometimes people. Sometimes animals. The guy out front? It was probably done with good reason,” Quintus stated in a matter-of-fact manner.
“Easy, bro. Your girl isn’t up for ghoul talk.”
“It’s not like you see them every day. Not all witches can make them. To be fair, there’s a world out there beyond witches, wolves and vampires. Our numbers are the strongest, but there are others…shifters, fae, demons …other nasty things. But tonight, our three groups celebrate together.”
“Is that what this is?” she asked.
“Positive thoughts.” He gave a small chuckle, his hard exterior showing a crack as a corner of his mouth turned upward.
“A unique opportunity to see special creatures?” Gabriella suggested with a smile. She stayed close to him as they talked.
“That’s the spirit,” Viktor quipped.
“May I take your shawl?” a squeaky voice asked.
Gabriella startled at a tap to her shoulder. As she swung around, she caught sight of a curvy female, her balayage-colored hair spilling over her shoulders in shades of the rainbow. She wore an orange latex corset and white tutu, her large bosom spilling over the tight fabric like an overbaked muffin. She blinked her red eyes, turning them to purple as she reached for Gabriella’s wrap.
“Thank you,” Gabriella managed, detecting the distinctive magick that only came from witches.
She forced herself not to stare at the girl as Quintus led them down a darkened brick hallway. Unable to contain the shock, she leaned toward her vampire, whispering, “I felt her. I don’t know the coven…she’s strong. That magick…”
“Don’t worry about her. She’s harmless. A basic witch.”
“But her energy,” Gabriella protested.
“My sweet little wolf. I’m afraid you haven’t been around many witches lately. You’re going to be okay. Take a deep breath. It will be all right. No more talking of this once we get in the ballroom. This section has been warded to protect wandering ears from listening but it’s free game in there. Mind your words. Stay with Viktor.”
Gabriella did as he said, inhaling deeply as they approached a stairwell. They passed through the entryway, and the walls appeared to close in around them. The narrow, brick, spiral staircase twisted up several stories. The suffocating tunnel morphed into a claustrophobia-inducing nightmare, their steps illuminated only by a dim string of twinkling lights on the ceiling.
When they finally emerged into the ballroom, a flickering neon green light blinded her. She caught flashes of men and women engaged in conversations. A Celtic rock band played on a raised circular stage while a line of young women danced in unison. Long blonde braids grazed over their bared breasts, red silk skirts hung low on their hips and brushed the ground as they moved. Masked in white leather, they floated rhythmically at a frantic pac
e, their eyes glazed over as if they’d been drugged.
In a far corner, Gabriella spied a stunning woman dressed in a bright green satin ball gown. Vines adorned with tiny reflective flowers topped her bun like a crown of glass. She spoke with a small court of young women who appeared bespelled, their attention solely focused on the grand female.
Quintus’ voice rumbled through the noise, startling her. “Gabriella.”
“Ah, yes. Sorry…what?” she asked, unable to focus.
“Champagne?”
“I’m not sure…what if…”
“Blood for vampires. Champagne for everyone else.” He waved at a pair of waiters. One stood with his eyes lowered, holding a tray of empty glasses, waiting on another who poured the effervescence from glittery golden bottles.
Quintus accepted a glass, gently setting it into her hand. His fingers deliberately brushed over hers, sending a tingle up her arm. Her body went on alert, her wolf seeking her mate. Mate. Gabriella blinked her gaze away, quickly sealing off her emotions. Confusion twisted through her, but she didn’t have time to linger on her thoughts as the music went quiet and the screech of a microphone tore through the ballroom.
“Good evening,” a female voice with an earthy tone resounded and the room went silent. “Welcome witches, wolves and vampires. Please show your appreciation to your fine leaders. Quintus. Please come up and say a few words.”
“Stay with Viktor.” Quintus brushed a kiss to her cheek and released her hand.
Gabriella’s heart pounded as Quintus strode toward the stage. Cheering and whistling sang in her ears. She startled, as a firm hand clasped hers.
“Easy sweetheart,” he said.
“Why does he have to go up there?”
“Business is business. Her name’s Absinthe. She’s the high priestess of the Celestine coven. She can quell all this dissension by showing solidarity with Quintus. You know how it is…every now and then you’ve got to pull out the big guns.”
“But where’s Jax again? The wolves?”
“That big fella over there. Hunter Livingston. He’s an Alpha from Jackson Hole.”
Gabriella’s heart raced as his eyes locked on hers. Even with her shields up, the call of his wolf spoke to her. Her beast stirred, scratching at the surface to run free. No, no, no. This can’t happen. Look away. Look away. She sucked a breath and brought the champagne to her lips, drawing a deep gulp.
“He’s powerful,” Viktor commented.
She coughed and gazed up at the blond vampire. “I’m sorry. It’s just…I haven’t been around many supes. Especially not wolves. The Alpha…he…” She shook her head.
“It’s going to be all right. Hunter doesn’t exactly love Quint but he’s solid. Nothing happening to you tonight.”
Quintus approached the stunning witch, and Gabriella’s stomach twisted in a knot as she embraced her vampire and held tight to his hand. Absinthe appeared far too familiar with him, and Gabriella’s wolf growled in response.
“The ways of our tribes are different, but we live peacefully with each other,” the witch continued, a broad smile plastered on her face.
Gabriella released a breath as Quintus freed his hands, holding them towards the crowd. He spoke with determination, the entire room silent.
“There is only one true and powerful coven within New York. The Celestine coven has held leadership since the days this country was founded. And while we’ve had our disagreements over the years, we’ve protected vampires, the coven, the pack. There will always be outsiders. As long as they bring flavor not dissension, they’re welcome. Our leadership is far too cohesive for division. Tonight is a reminder. So please, tell your children, and heed my words. There will be no trouble in New York.” Quintus’ line of focus drifted to Hunter who stood with his arms crossed. The Alpha nodded in agreement. “The wolves. You’ll have no issues and should you cross paths with an enemy, Jax will take action. Tonight is a celebration.”
The room exploded in applause and Quintus held a hand up to silence them. “Tonight is also a warning. A warning to others wishing to try their hand at taking down the coven. A warning to those who spread false rumors. There’s no trouble here, so don’t go seeking it. If you do, this is the face you will see.”
Gabriella’s heart fluttered at the sight of Quintus. His fangs dropped as he gave a lethal glare to the crowd. Fear filtrated through the room, the dark energy spearing through her mind. His anger and strength didn’t scare her, but his commanding presence reminded her that her vampire was indeed lethal, an ancient creature, powerful and alpha.
“Wise words darling,” Absinthe said, her voice firm. “We have a few more surprises for tonight so please do stay for a few hours.”
Music blared to life reanimating the crowd. Quintus leapt from the stage onto the floor and stalked toward her. His feral energy blasted through her and she sucked a breath. As he took her hand into his, Gabriella hoped they were leaving.
“Let’s dance,” he growled, his fangs still bared.
She lost her words as he tugged her toward him and released her glass of champagne to Viktor. A slow sensual beat pulsated throughout the open space, and Gabriella surrendered into his arms as he pulled her toward him. With his chest pressed tightly to hers, she relaxed into his embrace.
“Are we going?” she whispered.
“You’re beautiful tonight,” he told her, loud enough for others to hear.
“I…thank you,” she replied.
“Jesus Christ, you’re fucking hot, do you know that?”
“Quintus…” She lost her words as he rocked his erection against her belly. Her nipples tightened in response.
“I’d fuck you right here. I want them all to know you belong to me. Do you understand?”
She gasped as he tugged at her dress, exposing her shoulder. His lips brushed her bare skin.
“Look around here. I’m an animal too. This body. Your soul. It’s mine,” he claimed.
“Ahhh….” The sweet prick of his fangs teased her skin as he dragged his lips lazily over her collarbone. “But I’ve never….It’s public…”
The lights dimmed, flashes of red and white light strobing in the darkness. She caught sight of others crowding around the dance floor.
“I want to be in you,” he told her, his voice rough with lust.
She clutched his shoulder as he brushed the fabric of her dress aside, his hand slipping through the slit of her dress. She bit her lip, the touch of his fingers dancing over her mound. “Quintus…please…”
“Are you begging me to stop or are you begging me to finish?” he asked.
A jolt of arousal twisted through her, and she whispered. “Quintus…there’re people watching.” Her forehead rested on his shoulder as he plunged a finger deep inside her pussy.
“You’re so fucking wet.”
She rocked her pelvis as he fucked her with his hand. The ache between her legs blossomed, and she rubbed her breasts against his chest, her body on fire.
“What’s happening?” she breathed in confusion at her uncontrollable desire. She caught flashes of faces surrounding them as the lights pulsed overhead.
“They’ll all know you’re mine.”
“Quintus…please.” Through her lust-driven haze, her beast clawed to be with her mate. Her words failed as he slid a second finger inside her heat.
“Tell me, did you enjoy my bite?” He gently nibbled her shoulder, without breaking the skin as he held her in place.
“I’m going to come…” Her orgasm rose, his fingers thrusting in and out of her slick core, his thumb playing at her clit.
“Tell me…tell me who you belong to…”
“I can’t…this is crazy…” Her eyes flashed open but she couldn’t see, the lights blinding her.
“Say it,” he demanded.
“Yours…” She contracted around his fingers as he pumped in and out of her. The sweet insanity of the moment called to the wildness of her wolf. “I’m yours…just fuck�
�please…”
Gabriella cried out at the sting of his fangs slicing into her shoulder, “Ah Goddess…” Her fingernails dug into his shoulders, her body shaking, coming hard as he sucked at her essence. She didn’t care who watched. She hadn’t lied; she belonged to this vampire, and had no control but to allow the waves of ecstasy to roll through her body.
He lapped over her skin and withdrew his fingers. She stood mesmerized as he sucked them into his mouth. With her gaze locked on his, she panted, attempting to catch her breath. Quintus captured her lips, his seductive tongue danced with hers. Tasting herself, she surrendered to his intoxicating kiss. Gabriella returned his passion, publicly claiming him. This vampire was hers, no other’s.
His dominant thoughts filtered through her mind, the rabid thirst to declare her as his own. She sucked a breath as his guilt slammed into her, and he shut down his energy.
“Jesus, Gabby,” he whispered, pulling her close to his chest.
Safe within his embrace, Gabriella struggled to process what the hell had just happened. They’d just had sex in front of everyone, he’d bitten her.
“I just…you make me lose control. I want them all to know you’re mine,” he whispered.
“It’s okay…” Gabriella began but was interrupted by a tap on her shoulder. She swiveled her head to face Absinthe. The cool witch grinned from ear to ear, and Gabriella struggled to regain her composure.
“Ah, a young couple in lust. Such is the way of wolves.” She sniffed into the air and grinned. “You aren’t from here. Are you sure you aren’t a mix of some kind? You’re magick…I can’t tell but it seems like you are…”
“She’s wolf,” Quintus assured, interrupting her.
“Hmm…I don’t know. Hybrids can be a peculiar sort.”
“We’ve got to get going. Full moon,” Quintus told her.
Gabriella’s mouth went dry, Absinthe’s power washing over her, probing, seeking a way into her mind. She closed off her walls, refusing the high priestess access.
“Very interesting, Quintus,” she sang, eyeing Gabriella from head to toe.
“She belongs to me and is none of your concern,” he told her flatly.
