Wetting my lips, I nervously confessed that I’d lost control. “Mason and I went for a run before we came here. Everything was fine and there was no problems shifting into my wolf. In fact, it was pretty amazing.”
“So, what concerns you?”
“Well . . .” Hedging, I decided to be the brave soul Zane believed me to be. “I killed a rabbit.”
My admission confused him. “And?”
“I lost control.” Once I said it out loud, it was easier to follow with the rest. “The moment the blood touched my tongue, it was like it became everything. It consumed me to the point where I defied my Alpha’s command to release the body. In that moment, all I was, was this savage monster that, if given a chance, would’ve spilled more . . .”
“And relished in the massacre.” Zane finished my sentence.
Once again, he’d nailed how I was feeling. “That’s exactly how it was,” I exclaimed.
Standing from his chair, Zane approached me, doing something I doubted he’d done for many others. Dropping to his knee, he peered up at me. “What you felt was normal, Darcy. It’s something that even now, after all these many years, I still must monitor. Each vampire walks a line when they taste blood—a battle between letting their morals govern their actions or allowing themselves to be ruled by their hunger. For some, it comes somewhat easier, but it is something that always comes with time. With each situation where you choose to control the vampire within, your convictions become more concrete. Do you want to hurt others?”
His question was an honest one. “Never. I don’t ever want to become a monster without a conscience.”
Something that I’d said gave him pause. “You already believe you’re a monster, but one who still has a grip on her humanity.”
I nodded. “Isn’t that what I became when I agreed to become part vampire?” Seeing how he might interpret that, I rushed forward to clarify. “I’m not saying it’s being a vampire that makes me one. It’s the combination of that and my wolf—beast and demon—that’s turned me into something dangerous. Why else would it be so taboo?”
My answer clearly saddened him. “Sweet Darcy, the taboo comes from people abusing the power it gives them. It is frowned on because it holds the capacity to strip even the greatest of people down to something barbaric. It is only performed under the strictest of permissions because all life is precious, and once you witness the insanity that often comes when the conversion fails, you vow never to allow it again.”
“So, what are you saying?” My next breath seemed to hinge upon his response.
“That the only way you could ever become this monster you fear is by choosing to be one. It is a choice. It’s a willingness to stop battling against primal urges and give in. Everything that I’ve seen leads me to believe you will continue to fight until the end.”
“With everything I have,” I whispered.
“Then be at peace, Darcy. While it certainly shocked you to lose control like that, you didn’t stay that way.”
“Only because Mason commanded me.”
“Please don’t think I don’t take this seriously, because I do. Aside from the obvious of not wanting you distraught, I don’t want any who falls within my rule to falter. Even though I relinquished authority to Mason as your Alpha, I am still responsible for you because you are part-vampire.”
“So, what do I do if it continues to happen? What can I do so I’ll be better prepared?”
“Talk with Devlin. Have him explain what it was like for him when he was first converted.”
I tried not to snort, but failed miserably. “You mean, ‘our’ Devlin, right? He’s pretty tight lipped when it comes to his life.”
“Tell him it was at my request. He’ll open up.”
The idea of getting a coveted glimpse into my uncle’s past was exciting. “Okay, thank you.”
Patting my knee, Zane finally rose from his crouch. “Now, let’s go get your husband. I believe we’ve made him wait long enough.”
We had, and with a clearer mind and lighter heart, I was ready to share everything I’d learned.
Amber hadn’t been acting alone; and while there wasn’t much she was completely sure of, one thing was for certain: whoever the Master was, he was bad news.
And he was coming for us all.
Chapter Thirteen
Mason
Draining the coffee cup, caffeine hit my system, giving it a boost of energy I didn’t really need. I was already on edge as I impatiently waited for Darcy’s meeting with Zane to be over. What seemed like a good idea at the time was proving to be my downfall.
If I was struggling to keep myself from barging into Zane’s office before, now it felt like an inevitability.
“Fancy seeing you here, Mason.” Amelia Stratten greeted warmly, a Tupperware container in her hand. We were both standing inside the building’s small kitchen and I scooted out of her way so she could reach the fridge with what I assumed was her lunch.
“When business calls, I answer,” I replied, smiling back at her. She was one of the council members who made the daily commute to the office so she could help make sure our community’s affairs ran smoothly. I’d sat in a few meetings with her in the past and found her to be keenly intelligent. She was a tiny slip of thing, barely reaching the middle of my upper arm, but I’d learned never to underestimate her. Her fiery temperament matched the thick red hair she had loosely pulled back in a bun. She was the first Fae I’d ever met and I quickly discovered why she was so widely respected.
Despite the misconception amongst Supernaturals that the Fae were cold and distant, only interested in the protection of their kind, Amelia was a powerful advocate when it came to maintaining justice. She was someone Zane trusted implicitly, often overseeing Enforcer cases.
I liked her. A lot. She’d always shown her support for the Mystic Wolves and, in return, I’d offered her my help should she ever need it.
“Nothing bad, I hope?” Concern instantly filled her features.
“It’s Darcy.” Briefly disclosing the drama we’d faced with Amber and the recent possession of my mate, Amelia’s eyes clouded with restrained hostility, reminding me that the coldness Fae’s were accused of wasn’t a complete fallacy.
“What can I do?” Laying her hand gently on my forearm, she placed her container down on the counter top, giving me her full attention.
“Nothing. It’s over; and Amber is no longer a threat to us. Zane summoned Darcy to come speak with him.”
“And you wait outside?”
I nodded. “Out of respect for my mate and her privacy.”
This made her laugh, the sound like the tinkling of glass chimes on the wind. “She’s a lucky woman to have you, Mason O’Connor. Not many would afford their loved ones such a boon.”
“She’s already feeling violated. This was nothing. Besides, she’s never far away,” I said, tapping the side of my temple.
“And have you peeked?” Amelia’s eyes widened with curiosity.
“As tempting as it is, no. She’ll come and get me when it’s time.”
“I envy the closeness you have together. The complete trust it must take to be so readily vulnerable, yet knowing the other won’t take advantage. It’s not always granted to some, no matter how much they yearn for it.” Her tone took on a less jovial note, betraying her envy.
Winking, I attempted to lighten the mood again. “Maybe I can set you up with one of my wolves? You know, Daniel’s still single and available.”
“That man would be the death of me!” she gasped, humor returning to her eyes. “I’ve seen the way he flirts and smiles. He’s got half of the women here in love with him. I’d stand no chance with him. A pretty phrase paired with one of those sexy grins of his and I’d be a swooning fool like the rest of them. No, thank you. I’d rather hold on to my dignity. ”
Something told me she’d be more than a match for my bachelor best friend. She might even give him a run for his money, breaking his heart in the pro
cess. “If you’re sure. Just say the word and it’s a done deal.”
“I’ll keep it in mind. Thank you.” Retrieving her Tupperware, Amelia opened the fridge and deposited her food. “As much as I’d love to continue entertaining that thought, I have a pile of paperwork on my desk demanding my attention. Give my regards to Darcy, please.”
“Absolutely. I’m sure she’ll want to have you over for dinner, soon.”
“If so, you know where to find me. Be well, Alpha.” Nodding with respect to me and my position, Amelia retreated from the kitchen, leaving me alone with my thoughts.
A quick glance at my watch confirmed what I’d suspected. Only a few minutes had passed and I was back to impatiently waiting.
“Maybe I should go wear out the carpet outside his office,” I mused to no one in particular.
“Talking to yourself, again? You know that’s the first sign of insanity, right?”
Cocking my eyebrows at Devlin’s sudden appearance, I shrugged. “It’s a battle I face every day, Enforcer. What’s your excuse?” Laughing at the way his brow raised, mirroring what I’d done, it was time to escape the small confinement of the kitchen and away from the coffee.
“How’s she doing?” Devlin asked, cutting to the chase. “I was busy giving Vlad an assignment; otherwise I’d have been up sooner. There’s only so much caffeine you can drink before you start twitching.”
Walking down the length of the hallway, we came to a stop outside Zane’s office. “What gave it away?” I chuckled as I flinched, my body convulsing and head tweaking to the side.
“Besides, that stuff will kill you if you’re not careful. One cup too many and . . .” Devlin crossed his eyes, his tongue hanging out the side of his mouth. “It’s never pretty when that happens.”
“You’re in good spirits, today. That could only mean one thing.”
“That Vlad’s out of my hair and someone else’s problem? You would be correct in that assumption.” Sitting down on the uncomfortable looking chairs that all offices seem to have out for visitors, Devlin leaned back, resting his ankle over his other knee. “I seriously think he’s like the curse of Bloody Mary, only minus the mirror.”
“What? Say his name three times and he appears?”
“Hey, laugh all you want, but it’s uncanny,” Devlin answered, holding his hand up in protest.
“He can’t be that bad. I know he’s a little . . . unorthodox.” It was the kindest way to describe Devlin’s nephew without pointing out how unbalanced he sometimes came across. “But Darcy likes him, who’s doing okay, by the way. She’s still in with Zane and I’m just waiting for her to call me in.”
Devlin’s head bobbed, showing me he’d heard my acknowledgment of Darcy’s wellbeing. “Well, I’ve always questioned my niece’s taste. She married you, didn’t she?” He was definitely in fine form, something I had no problem in crushing.
“Vlad.”
That got his attention.
“Vlad,” I said again.
“Don’t.”
“V—llllad.” I finished, enjoying the way Devlin looked around as though he expected him to magically appear.
Groaning, Devlin covered his face. “You had to do it, didn’t you? You couldn’t just leave it alone.”
“You’re delusional.”
Then, to my complete amazement, Vlad rounded the corner, smiling as he spotted us. “Hey, guys.”
“You were saying?” Devlin murmured below his breath.
“How was I to know you weren’t lying?” I fired back just as quietly.
“Because when it comes to my crazy nephew, I never lie.” Glaring at me, Devlin let out a sigh, before staring up at his younger charge. “I thought I told you to go check up on the Brock family. They reported hearing something unusual outside their home last night and requested someone come check it out.”
The fact that Vlad was running errands for the Council obviously boosted the vampire’s confidence and he beamed with pride. “I was heading there, but saw that Darcy had an appointment with Zane. I didn’t want her thinking me rude by not at least stopping by to see how she is.”
“So, you’d rather annoy me, instead?” It was funny seeing the good-natured Devlin take on a more exasperated tone with his family member.
“I don’t see how showing some concern is annoying you, Uncle. Darcy and I are cousins and I’ve worried about her.”
Peering at Devlin, I was surprised to see he’d confided her ordeal to Vlad. The discrete shake of his head told me he hadn’t.
“She’s doing fine, Vlad,” I interrupted. “She’ll be sorry she missed you.”
Instead of taking the hint, he perched himself on the edge of the couch. “The conversion process can be a real bitch for some. I remember feeling like I was going mad in the beginning because I could hear every little noise and didn’t know how to shut it off. And the hunger . . . I suppose it was easier for her, being a werewolf.”
“How so?” I asked, ignoring the annoyed jab from Devlin. As frustrating as Vlad might be, I kind of liked him, especially because he got under Devlin’s skin.
“Well, she’d already tasted blood . . . granted it was animal blood, but still. She’d killed and had lived her whole life managing dual natures. I’m supposing it wasn’t much of a shock.”
“Maybe you and she can talk about it. Compare notes,” I offered, smiling at how the idea seemed to excite him.
“Absolutely,” he beamed, slowly standing. “I guess I better go before my uncle has an aneurism or something. You might be a vampire, but you shouldn’t take your blood pressure for granted.” Rolling his eyes in exasperation, I choked back my snort as the young vampire left, waving goodbye over his shoulder.
“He’s a keeper.” I smirked.
“He’s a handful,” Devlin retorted. “But beneath all his bluster, he’s actually a good kid.”
“So why do you give him such a hard time?”
“Because I can?”
“All he needs is a little guidance and I think he’ll make a pretty good Enforcer, even. You might want to talk to him about his choice of wardrobe, though—he’ll need to blend in and not stick out like a sore thumb.”
Devlin rewarded my suggestion with another long groan. “Trust me, I’ve tried. He keeps telling me to back off and let him ‘find his own way’. That he needs to rediscover who he is, now that he’s a vampire.”
“And dressing in tight leather pants with a studded collar around his neck is his idea of that?” That was one of the things I loved about seeing Vlad. There was no telling what he’d look like when he appeared—my favorite being when he went through his Lestat and Edward Cullen phase.
“I guess. I tried to interest him in joining the Enforcer ranks. Told him it would give his new life purpose and all the good he could do, but he’s been resistant. I was surprised he agreed to work here at the office. As long as it keeps him out of trouble, I’m happy.”
“Face it, you care about your nephew.”
Devlin glared warningly at me like I’d just announced some secret to the world. “Tell anyone and I’ll kill you.”
Blurting out laughing, I shook my head. “And face the wrath of Darcy? Good luck.”
“Ugh, I’m screwed, aren’t I?” Tipping his head backward so it rested on the cushioned sofa, Devlin closed his eyes in exaggerated frustration.
“Afraid so. But, because I’m a nice guy, I’ll cut you some slack. Your secret’s safe with me.”
“Thank you.” He laughed, looking at me gratefully. “I wouldn’t hear the end of it had Vlad found out that deep down, beneath it all, I really do have a soft spot for him.”
I was about to tease him more, when the door in front of us finally opened and Zane popped his head out. “Just where I thought you’d be.” He smiled, glancing at me. “And Devlin, I should’ve known as much. Please, both of you come in. Darcy and I are ready for you.”
Leaving the carefree conversation behind, I entered his office, my gaze instantly
searching for my wife. She didn’t look any worse for wear, and a quick touch on our connection revealed she was okay.
“Take a seat so we can get down to business.” Zane gestured to a chair near Darcy and dragging another one over so I could be closer.
The click as the door locked rang out through the air and the smile that had occupied Zane’s face evaporated.
“Let’s talk about Amber.”
And just like that, my link with Darcy shook.
Chapter Fourteen
Darcy
“Darcy?”
It didn’t matter how hard I tried to keep that brief flash of panic from surfacing, there was no stopping it from revealing itself to Mason through our connection. He’d felt every bit of the dread that pulsed through me at the mention of Amber’s name. As much as I didn’t want to talk about it, there was valuable information everyone needed to know.
If I looked at him, I’d chicken out; and it was too important to let that happen. “I appreciate everyone giving me a chance to gather my bearings and not pressing for answers last night. I know you’ve all been impatient to learn what I saw while Amber had control in my body, and I feel bad for making you all wait.”
It was Zane who spoke up first. “Don’t apologize for taking the time you needed. I can imagine you want to speak of this, in its entirety, only once. Just take it slow. You’re safe here.”
Glancing about the room, Mason and Devlin nodded. “There’s no rush, sweetheart.”
“But there is,” I countered. “You heard Amber before the spell. The Master’s coming and if just the glimpses I saw are any indication, it’s going to be bad. Beyond bad. It makes everything we’ve gone through seem like child’s play.”
“Then start from the beginning,” Devlin counseled. “You said you remembered everything.”
“I felt fine after the conversion, except for that annoying pressure inside my head. I told you about it and thought after Helena had helped with the meditation spell, the problem had resolved itself. Sure, I felt a little funky, but I figured it was because I was tired. It’s not easy being part vampire, you know.” Zane and Devlin laughed at my small joke.
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