Savvy My Heart_Love Bites

by Elliot Love

  "purple heart." Her thoughts drifted deeper, bringing to mind the intensely passionate, wild lovemaking that followed their light conversation.

  "Sav ... purple heart," she murmured to herself, staring at his beautiful signature, affectionately caressing the pick with her thumb. You gave me a piece of your heart to keep with me always. Now you have become my heart, Savion. I miss you more than words can say. "Sav..." She closed her hand tightly around the one tangible connection to him. "...My heart."

  Yes, Summer. Your heart. Nahtosha's unspoken words infiltrated her mind.

  Blaze invaded her brief moment of escapism. "Well, Summer baby, looks like Page has agreed to play martyr and give me her love-bite." He paused with an insolent grin, exceedingly pleased with himself over convincing Page to consent. "Unless you two lovelies would like to have another round." He feigned a yawn, then delivered the checkmate.

  "But personally, I've grown tired of this back and forth. So ... what do ya say, babe? Can you live with yourself after making Page take your place with me?" 223

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  When Summer shook her head in defeat, Page's mouth dropped open, and a dumbfounded expression traversed her face.

  "No ... I can't live with that. I lived a lie for thirty years. I won't live the rest of my life hiding behind another. You win, Blaze."

  "Well I'll be damned!" Blaze's face brightened with a triumphant smile. "Little Miss Innocent has integrity and guts. You'll make a superb mate."

  "Summer ... no!" Page said with tears running down her cheeks. "Let me handle him."

  "I won't let you be bound to him because of me. You are an innocent woman caught in a wicked game." She slanted Page a furtive glance. The time had come for her to conquer past demons.

  Blaze waved Page off. "Stay out of this. Summer has made her decision."

  Page began struggling against the leather bindings. "I won't be your witness. I won't!"

  He reached back and seized her by the hair. "You WILL be a witness, or I'll turn you out once I'm in control." Summer gave Page a slight shake of her head before Blaze turned back towards her. Trust me. She willed her thoughts to Page, and received a quizzical look in return. She braced herself for Blaze's approach with a silent prayer that she had not overestimated her instincts—or the power of love.

  "Now," Blaze sighed with open desire, clearly aroused over what he planned to do. "If we can just get on with the formalities here. Once I've tasted your blood, Savion's power 224

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  will be mine and you'll have no choice but to return the bite and become bound to me for eternity ... as my mate." His eyes shone with iniquitous lust.

  When Blaze slid onto the bed, Summer used years of selfdiscipline to remain focused. Saving Page from a hellish fate was the brave thing to do. Years of cowering beneath Eric's blackmail had left a bitter taste—a taste she wanted rid of once and for all. She'd never trusted anything more than the love between her and Savion. And she hadn't come this far to turn back to her old ways now.

  Relax!

  She caught the smug expression on Blaze's face before he positioned himself behind her to keep Page in his sights, ensuring that she watched. Even though Summer had consented to his terms, he'd not released the chain binding her ankles.

  No fear! She repeated the words Savion had given over and over in her mind, clutching the tiny piece of plastic with all her strength until it cut into her palm. A rush of heat raced up her arm as the pick drew blood from the cut. Though Blaze now had his hands in her hair and lips nuzzling her skin, she choked back the vile taste of fear.

  Mon coeur ... reach out to me! I hear you. Savion! You are so close. I have a piece of your heart in my hand. She closed her eyes to maintain concentration and preserve their connection.

  No, my love. You hold my whole heart in your hand. Savion ... my heart!

  She felt Blaze's teeth at her neck preparing to bite down. 225

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  "Prepare for the hottest bite you've ever had," Blaze said with utter arrogance.

  "I do believe she's already had that." Everyone's head sprang up.

  "Savion!" Summer flung herself off the bed and out of Blaze's reach to prevent him from making a fast grab for her neck before Savion could stop him. She pulled to her knees, scooted to Page, then immediately tore the leather bindings from Page's hands and feet. They couldn't release Summer's chained ankles despite their frantic efforts. So both crouched against the wall as the two men faced off. With two, long strides Savion reached the bed, clutched Blaze around the neck with one hand and hurled him to the floor with impressive force. He turned his head, his eyes making a visual inspection of Summer's disheveled appearance. She saw the sadness touch his face—then shock when he saw his sister.

  "Page! What are you doing here?"

  "I followed him to your house that night. When I saw Ciara sneaking off with Summer, I went after them so we wouldn't lose track of her."

  "You've done well." His eyes sparkled with pride. Summer's blood raced at the sight of him. Standing tall and dominant—dressed in the same white outfit she'd gazed at the night of winning those very clothes. Surprisingly calm despite his open rage, Savion stood over Blaze, who appeared shell-shocked. He had been caught in the act—guilt painted all over his face.

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  "I knew you'd make a power play but never expected you to use such a heavy hand." Savion's voice carried supreme confidence and self-control. "What you put these two ladies through is unforgivable."

  "So what are you going to do about it? You can't kick me out of my own band!" Blaze's excessive contempt made him appear even weaker. The man didn't possess a shred of dignity.

  Savion didn't answer straight away. He held Blaze on the floor with a booted foot on his chest while obviously contemplating the best course of action. Summer wondered if Blaze would fight back. An act of violence towards Dunalino's leader would surely ban Blaze from the island forever. She wasn't certain which category Blaze's heinous deeds towards her and Page fell into—though in her mind, blackmail then drugging and dragging someone into a cottage against their will definitely classified as violence. The gauges on Dunalino might be more lenient considering their nature. After all, she'd watched Page viciously attack several men for seeking a taste of Summer's blood, even after the men verbally confirmed that they intended no harm. Yet, Savion had said that anyone caught hurting or threatening another would be given a one-way ticket off the island. Will he go easier on Blaze because of their long-term relationship in the band? Summer knew he must be furious. Yet, his amazing strength of character refused to let it show. He'd killed Trey with the power of his mind. What punishment will Blaze suffer?

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  Savion pressed his boot harder into Blaze's chest. The lines on his face were taut with unmistakable fury.

  "I should crush you right here! You went after my woman and attempted to steal leadership of an island that I purchased! Your twisted lust for power has gone too far this time."

  "How'd you find us here anyway?" A fleeting shadow of confusion crossed Blaze's face. "You have the clothes..." He turned scrutinizing eyes on Summer. "She has nothing. I know you used the old rags to find her."

  "My woman has more than you think." Savion glowered at him. " You are not in a position to ask questions ... so shut the fuck up! The only question here is what manner of punishment to use on your treacherous soul." Page trembled beside Summer as they maintained their safe distance.

  "Let me have him, Savion." Page licked her lips. Blaze's eyes widened with terror. "No! Not that bitch! Let me leave the island and never come back ... anything but that." He visibly shuddered.

  Savion stole into his thoughts while B
laze had his guard down. He wanted to be positive Blaze wasn't using a reverse strategy. Upon feeling his sheer terror of being turned over to Page, Savion inwardly smiled. My sister the vamp! Striking fear into evil men. Gotta love her! He turned his head towards Page while keeping an eye on Blaze.

  "What do you have in mind, little sister?"

  "He is the only other one who knows of my status as female blood-dragon. Until I am under Summer's protection, 228

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  we cannot let word of this spread. With your help I can get him under control and keep him ... stable..." An iniquitous grin lit her face. "...Until you and Summer consummate your bond."

  Savion nodded meditatively. "Has he fed on you today?"

  "No." Page shook her head. "His obsession to taste Summer's blood distracted his need to feed. He hasn't had me since our last day in L.A."

  "That explains his weak mind."

  Two full days without Page's energy-enhancing blood had caused Blaze's heightened senses to wane. He'd inadvertently defeated himself. Even though he had apparently fed on Ciara, the double-crossing wench meant nothing. Blaze had received no more than sustained virility from her.

  "What about Page's bites?" Summer interjected. "Didn't they bind her to him?"

  Page outright laughed. "Those were anything but lovebites."

  "Both parties must be willing, remember, love?" Savion gave Summer a wink.

  She felt a rush of heat flow through her. Hearing his sensual voice again—receiving his sexy winks—flutters filled her stomach. Many times he had reiterated how critical the willingness aspect was in regards to their bite.

  "So how about it, Savion? Can I keep him as my pet for a few days? After all this running around I've worked up an appetite." Page stood up, then sauntered over to the two men. "By the time I'm done with him ... he'll be a different man."

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  Summer observed closely—utterly captivated by the scene unfolding before her. Blaze looked up at Page. His cool, green eyes lacked the brazen arrogance Summer had seen in them just a few minutes ago. The previous egotism was gone ... and in its place, dread.

  "C'mon, man," Blaze pleaded. "Just let me leave Dunalino. I know I broke the rules, so I'll accept my banishment from the island. It will be bad enough living in L.A. without the band and women to bite. Please don't let her bite me again."

  "Shut ... up!" Savion's eyes flashed with rage. "You have no say!"

  Page laughed triumphantly. "See that? He's already coming around ... he actually said 'please.'" Savion gave Page a consenting nod while pinning Blaze to the floor with a heavy boot as he began to squirm. Page dropped to her knees with ravenous eyes. After a tussle she managed to secure Blaze's hands with the same leather straps he'd used on her.

  With a smoldering look Savion melted the chain binding Summer's ankles, then beckoned for her with an outstretched hand. She rushed into his arms, pressing her face to his bare chest. Taking a deep breath, she filled her senses with his heady scent, then closed her eyes. He pulled her close, yet simultaneously helped Page keep Blaze restrained with a strong, booted foot over his torso. She wondered if Savion was using his telepathic energy as well to subdue the man, now that Blaze lost the ability to stop him. Either way, Blaze proved to be no match for Savion's impressive might—no match at all.

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  Poor Page. Summer sighed. Blaze used her blood to gain strength, in a failed attempt to defeat her brother in a grab for full leadership. No doubt he'd have forced Savion into exile and taken all the women for himself. Summer felt no sympathy for Blaze. Nor did it bother her that Savion and Page showed no mercy on his sinful soul.

  Gently turning her face away from the couple on the floor, Savion said, "My woman should never have to watch something like this." Savion kissed the top of her head.

  "Summer ... I've missed you more than anything. I'm sorry it took me so long to find you."

  Summer jumped when Blaze let out a howl. Chills scattered over her skin at his hair-raising screams. Yet she didn't look down. Savion's protective embrace made her feel safe once again. She had trusted her heart and taken a strong stand, in addition to helping Page escape a horrid future. She could hear Blaze thrashing around on the floor and the sound of Page sucking his blood. His wailing began to settle into faint whimpering as she took her fill.

  "I've got him, now, Savion," said Page. "Take Summer home."

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  Twenty-five

  "How are doing, my love?" Savion offered her a cup of tea as she sat snuggled on his sofa wrapped in a soft blanket. Evening was upon them—the exhilarating scent of fresh, salt air rode a breeze coming through the open sliding glass doors. Golden rays of sunlight created a brilliant display across a sky streaked with beautiful shades of pink and blue. Sunset on Dunalino was breathtaking even with the sun setting away from their viewpoint.

  She smiled up at him as he perched on the edge of a cushion to face her. Once they left the cabin, he'd whisked her home to his elegant domicile the immortal way. She hadn't experienced any further queasiness over the bizarre manner of traveling since he'd given her the coffee bean. They had enjoyed a luxurious bath and light breakfast before retiring to the couch for the afternoon.

  "I'm okay. Much better now that I'm home with you."

  "I'm sorry I didn't tell you about Page. We didn't want to overburden you with excessive details. Until our blood is sealed there was always the risk that Blaze could've intercepted your thoughts. I had no idea he already knew about Page. He'd obviously been using her blood to keep his mind hidden from me."

  "I understand." She reached up to touch the shiny blonde hair she loved so much. "You told me in the beginning that I'd receive information as needed. Page did a noble thing by coming for me. She thinks fast. Will she be okay?" 232

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  "Oh, yeah. All she needed was a bit of help getting Blaze subdued. I'm sure she has him back at their house by now."

  "What will she do with him?"

  A distant smile swept over his face as Savion stared out over the frolicking waves.

  "Feed."

  "Like she did on those men who came after us?"

  "Yeah." He gazed at her with sincere eyes. "Those pricks will be put on a cargo ship headed to the depths of the southern seas. What happens to them down there in those dark, haunted waters will be out of my hands. Ciara bought herself a one-way ticket to travel with them. Seemed like proper retribution. After all, the little whore will have several men seeking her blood. But at least she won't be a threat to our community anymore."

  "What about your band?"

  "Ah, shit happens." Savion shrugged with that easy smile of his. "If Blaze has his attitude back in check when Page is done with him, perhaps we'll start things up again." He framed her face with gentle hands, vivid blue eyes searching hers. "No worries about the band. I have everything I want right here. Tonight, when the full moon is at its highest ... you will become my Senhora Do Sangue." She shivered with anticipation. "It won't be long. Becoming joined with you can't come soon enough."

  "I love you so much, Summer." Gently, he took the empty cup from her hand before pulling her into his strong arms. His scent floated over her. She sighed contentedly against his bare chest, sliding her arms around his waist. He wore 233

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  nothing except fresh black leather jeans and his unique, light musk cologne.

  "If I had known the guitar pick was in my robe pocket, I could've called out to you right away."

  "I had completely forgotten that I'd put that in there. When we returned from the party to clean
your clothes, I remembered you had put it in the jeans pocket back in L.A. So I tucked the pick into your robe to keep it safe while you showered. We got foolin' around, and I never had the chance to tell you."

  Summer smiled, recalling the night Savion had to stop her from biting his neck. "Ah, yeah ... that was a hot night."

  "Sure as hell was," he said in a sensual purr.

  "I can see how you forgot to tell me where you put my

  'purple heart.'"

  He laughed softly while petting her hair. "You deserve a Purple Heart after what you did today. Page wasn't the only noble one out there in the woods. What on earth possessed you to take on Blaze?"

  "I couldn't live with myself if Page had taken the fall for me. She carries no blame in any of this. It was Blaze's lust for my blood that sucked Page into play. She told me that she wanted to get away from him ever since he took on other women. I know what it's like being stuck with a man you loathe. It was time for me to conquer past ghosts and trust my heart ... trust you."

  Savion planted a sweet kiss on her forehead, letting his lips linger with deep affection. "I am honored that you'll be my life-mate. I adore you, my love. In spite of everything, we 234

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  are here together. Seems Nahtosha is determined to seal our blood."

  "Yes!" Summer lifted her head. Her eyes met his when he looked down. "She spoke to me in the cabin. I heard her telling me to reach out to you ... reach out to my heart. Very soon after receiving her words the air got very cold, so I tucked my hands deep into the pockets to fend off the sudden chill. That's when I found the pick." Savion smiled warmly. Adoration filled his eyes. "I spoke those words the night you disappeared. Guess there really is a part of my heart in that pick."

  "Is it possible that the pick held most of your energy? After all, I had it with me since the beginning."

  "I assumed it was the stage clothes. Perhaps my favorite guitar pick fused with your favorite outfit created an absolutely unbreakable bond. Look at the barriers we've crossed to end up here ... in each other's arms."

  "Two intense energy sources," Summer added. "I do believe your theory must be right." The concept behind it blew her mind. Just over a week ago Savion had been but a dream. Staggering forces had come together to bring her all this way in such a short time span.