Veil of Seduction

Ambrose Heights Vampires 2

Veil of Seduction A newborn vampire. A powerful leader. An inconsolable woman. The shaping of their eternity all lies within the eyes. Steffan Matthews is the devastatingly handsome vampire leader of Ambrose Heights. He cultivates social order and invents concoctions that allow vampires to feel human once again. But Steffan also has a devouring obsession that brings him to his knees. Her name is Anya. Steffan sets out to claim Anya, a mortal ripe for the taking, as his mate. But the blackness in the eyes of his newborn should’ve served as a warning. Anya is off-limits according to the vampire creed. It will take the strength of the kinship, the purity of love, a hint of magic, and a subterranean guardian to shield Steffan against the wrath of Ryan Evans, protect him from the fate of the Nemesis, and bridge a passage to his rightful destiny. Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Vampires/Werewolves Length: 140,011 words

VEIL OF SEDUCTION Ambrose Heights Vampires 2

Maya DeLeina

EROTIC ROMANCE

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

ABOUT THE E-BOOK YOU HAVE PURCHASED: Your non-refundable purchase of this e-book allows you to only ONE LEGAL copy for your own personal reading on your own personal computer or device. You do not have resell or distribution rights without the prior written permission of both the publisher and the copyright owner of this book. This book cannot be copied in any format, sold, or otherwise transferred from your computer to another through upload to a file sharing peer to peer program, for free or for a fee, or as a prize in any contest. Such action is illegal and in violation of the U.S. Copyright Law. Distribution of this e-book, in whole or in part, online, offline, in print or in any way or any other method currently known or yet to be invented, is forbidden. If you do not want this book anymore, you must delete it from your computer. WARNING: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. If you find a Siren-BookStrand e-book being sold or shared illegally, please let us know at [email protected]

A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: Erotic Romance

VEIL OF SEDUCTION Copyright © 2012 by Maya DeLeina E-book ISBN: 1-61926-292-4 First E-book Publication: January 2012 Cover design by Jinger Heaston All cover art and logo copyright © 2012 by Siren Publishing, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written permission. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

PUBLISHER Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

Letter to Readers Dear Readers, If you have purchased this copy of Veil of Seduction by Maya DeLeina from BookStrand.com or its official distributors, thank you. Also, thank you for not sharing your copy of this book.

Regarding E-book Piracy This book is copyrighted intellectual property. No other individual or group has resale rights, auction rights, membership rights, sharing rights, or any kind of rights to sell or to give away a copy of this book. The author and the publisher work very hard to bring our paying readers high-quality reading entertainment. This is Maya DeLeina’s livelihood. It’s fair and simple. Please respect Ms. DeLeina’s right to earn a living from her work. Amanda Hilton, Publisher www.SirenPublishing.com www.BookStrand.com

DEDICATION People come into your life and make you laugh, learn, love, and grow. For me, I’ve met wonderful people who did exactly this and so much more. Suzanne—your support goes beyond any scale of appreciation. Your talent and creative passions are endless and fascinating. But most of all, your friendship is a gift as valuable as life itself. Lee, Tanya, Regina, Kim, and Beth—you are the vision-makers, making all that you touch with your artistic magic shine. Thank you for your friendship and lending your gifts to my projects. Dawn and Geralyn—thank you for being my “go-to” critics with each book I write. Your friendship and ability to polish my stories are priceless. Adam—your humility, creative light, and humor are spellbinding. Stacy—you are the epitome of beauty, perfection, and inner strength that every woman strives for. You both personified what I thought only existed in fairy tales. Thank you for your charm and our blossoming friendships. Natalie—much can be said for overdue e-mail responses. Cheers to a great relationship. To my editor—thank you for all that didn’t make it into the book. Dad, Chris, Jen, Mike, Mark, Big L, and Lady—your love and support is comforting and what keeps me grounded. Mom—your praise is better than a five-star review. Thank you for all that you have done for me, taught me, and instilled in me to get me where I am today. I love you. And finally, to M.J.—home is where you are. Dorothy had it right—there’s no place like it.

VEIL OF SEDUCTION Ambrose Heights Vampires 2 MAYA DELEINA Copyright © 2012

Prologue The evening marked the first snowfall of the season. Ryan stepped out into the cold night air and reached deep into the pockets of his long wool coat. He wiggled his fingers against the smooth satin lining, his senses soaking in the opulence that surrounded him. Every detail of the five-star resort was exquisite. His gaze traveled the length of the porte cochere, then drifted upward on the ornate ceiling. The Italian Renaissance architecture boasted ornamental moldings finished in shades of gold, black, and cobalt blue. It was striking against the white marble archways that lined the entry. He remained fixated on the lavishness until a sweet voice breached his trance. “Sir? I am so sorry. I forgot to have you select your fortune before you left the restaurant.” She was slightly winded but polished and expressive in her footing. Her arms outstretched toward Ryan, displaying an elegant glass bowl filled with little silver and gold foil packages. She wore a white, button-down shirt, a delicate sheen laced in the fabric. The top two buttons had been left undone, revealing her cleavage to eager eyes. The shirt tucked into a black pencil skirt that accentuated her curves. An ankle bracelet adorned one bare leg and complimented her peep-toe, black heels. She stood shaking, inadequately attired for the frigid temperature of the evening.

Veil of Seduction

9

Ryan looked at her curiously. “You work at the restaurant? I don’t remember seeing you.” “Well, I definitely saw you.” “And you ran out after me, in this cold, all because of a fortune cookie?” She flashed the flirtiest smile. “I could never live with myself knowing I deprived you of your chosen enlightenment to fulfill your destiny, sir.” Like a wildfire, Ryan felt his smile spread from ear to ear. A spark flashed in her eyes. In that moment, Ryan realized their immediate attraction to one another. Ryan scanned her from head to toe. He estimated she was at least a decade younger than him. Delicious images danced in his head as he mentally undressed her within seconds. He fished his nestled hands out from the warmth of his coat pockets and reached for a shimmering package in the glass bowl. “Well then, when you put it that way, how can I refuse?” Ryan selected a package with his left hand while his right shrewdly retrieved a business card from his inner chest pocket. “Hopefully, you will not make the same mistake and deprive me of anything else in the future,” Ryan uttered slyly as he handed her his card. Her eyes widened as she examined his card. She smiled at the personal information carefully penned on the back. Her lustful gaze fixed on Ryan as she bit her lower lip and evaluated his physique. She leaned in close and whispered in his ear, “I assure you, I never make the same mistake twice.” She pulled back, noting the smug-laced grin that was etched on Ryan’s face. Giving him one last assessment, she parted with a flirty wink. “I’ll be seeing you…Mr. Ryan Evans.” Ryan watched as the young woman retreated back into the lobby. He took in a deep breath, absorbing her musky perfume that suspended in the air. Instantly, his naughty imagination unleashed once again. With her pinned securely beneath him, she writhed under his control. Her perky breasts bounced with a raw intensity to the demands of his thrusts. Her lustful moans rang deliciously in his ear. She huffed and panted, begging him to fuck her harder and faster like an animal. Ryan pulled himself from the wicked fantasy and refocused on his surroundings. Resigning effortlessly, he sighed. Taking another lover was no longer a question of if, but when.

10

Maya DeLeina

Once she disappeared from his sight, he tore open the elegant foil packaging, and retrieved the fortune cookie. One half of the crescent was dipped in dark chocolate and finished with a dusting of edible gold flakes. He broke open the cookie and fished out the small piece of paper hidden inside. Those who have love and happiness, have wealth beyond measure “Mr. Evans, your car has arrived,” interrupted the valet as Ryan read the fortune’s message. Ryan popped the broken cookie pieces into his mouth, tipped the valet, and slipped into the warmth of the vehicle. He buckled his seat belt and made the necessary mirror adjustments, glancing once more at the fortune. A chuckle escaped him as he edited the fortune, discarding it out the window. “Those with wealth beyond measure can buy love and happiness.” **** From the refuge of the lobby, the young woman peered out of the window, watching Ryan as he got into his vehicle. The lights of the porte cochere beamed off of the highly polished Mercedes SUV. She caught a glimpse of the vanity plate just before Ryan drove off into the darkness. MNEM8KR. “Money maker,” she said to herself, “I gotcha!”

Veil of Seduction

11

Chapter One Of the seven properties that made up Ambrose Heights, Ryan Evans purchased the smallest home in the exclusive gated community. But what his home lacked in size, it made up for in its architectural presence. Covered in stone and stucco, visitors were welcomed with intricate carved designs in the wooden doors at the vaulted entrance. The home was built on stilts, offering the illusion of balancing precariously on the edge of the mountain. Floor-to-ceiling windows created unobstructed views of the neighboring mountain vistas and the city below. Yet, the striking feature of the home was the portion of the mountain that protruded through the framing and the large boulder that seemingly jutted up through floor. Careful attention to incorporate the mountain terrain translated into a truly unique home. Ryan had first laid eyes on the property when he happened upon a copy of a local architecture magazine. Lingering in the smooth finish of a rusty nail at the lakeside bar in his favorite hotel in town, the magazine cover caught his eye. The home was the feature story. With each page turned, Ryan couldn’t believe his eyes. The magnificent home was the first glimpse he ever had into Ambrose Heights. Ambrose Heights was a bit of an enigma in the town. It sat secluded, access restricted only to residents, with very little activity seen on the only road leading to and from the mountainside neighborhood. Even the locals in the area didn’t know much about the place or its residents. In fact, most would swear that the community seemed to just appear overnight. All that was known of Ambrose Heights was it loomed above picturesque Manitou Springs, vigilant of the eclectic and spirited ambiance of the town.

12

Maya DeLeina

And it was this, the exclusiveness of the neighborhood, which captivated Ryan. It drew him in like a moth to a flame. He wanted to be a part of the status, seize its prominence and distinction. He tucked the magazine in his brief case and immediately went to work, feeding his latest obsession. No matter the price, the home would be his. **** Ryan exhausted his time in relentless research of the property. He poured through public resources for information on the owner, land zoning, builders, anything he could tie to Ambrose Heights. He even resorted to locating the author of the magazine article and was thrilled to learn that the owner was known to entertain proposals to purchase the property from time to time. This was the fuel Ryan needed. Soon, Ryan’s persistence and determination paid off. He landed a faceto-face meeting with Vaughn, the caretaker of the property. Ryan spent the next few weeks communicating with Vaughn at the mercy of the guard post station. When Vaughn finally agreed to present the owner with a purchase proposal, Ryan found himself making multiple visits to Ambrose Heights, more than he could count. Vaughn always insisted on daytime visits, without a single offer to enter the home for a private tour. Instead, he offered Ryan rides in a golf cart down the long street that made up the community as the negotiations played out. On one visit, Vaughn freely shared information about Ambrose Heights residents as they stopped to admire the home that sat in the bend of the crescent-shaped road. This home was quite different from the others in the community. This was an estate. The residence had a definite old-world charm, drawing inspiration from medieval European designs. It was clad in stone and boasted ornate oriel windows and two tower steeples. Vines climbed the walls of the towers that flanked a large Juliet balcony. Perched high on the hill, the castle-like estate was surrounded by a manicured garden that created a labyrinth design on the sprawling front lawn. Two long cobblestone driveways lined each side of

Veil of Seduction

13

the lawn and led up to the circle courtyard at the staircased entrance. And while Ryan was still seated in the golf cart on the street, he could make out a stately tiered fountain in the courtyard and a four-car garage accessible by a glass, enclosed breezeway. “This was the first home built. It is also the largest,” Vaughn stated plainly. “The owner had originally purchased all of this land and worked with a developer to create this private community. Originally, the plan called for thirteen homes. If I am correct, he finally decided to keep it a close-knit community with fewer homes but still owns most of the undeveloped land up here.” “And am I to assume that this home is not for sale?” Ryan asked. “You are correct. An offer would never be entertained for this home. He resides here.” “He?” Ryan looked curiously at Vaughn. “He.” Vaughn stated with a sense of authority in his eyes. “Interesting. So, the residents here, are they celebrities, neurosurgeons, infamous attorneys?” Ryan asked, deciding this was his only opportunity to inquire about the wealth and status of the residents of Ambrose Heights without sounding crass. “Old money.” Vaughn winked at Ryan. Vaughn exited the golf cart and Ryan followed suit. They leaned against the cart’s frame, admiring the grand home from the street. “I’m not of old money. And, I know how people of that stature are. They are very particular of their social circle,” Ryan declared in a troubling tone. “The residents have been briefed on your proposal to purchase a property and are quite interested in you. It is certainly not a bad deal to have a highly successfully hedge fund manager in their community.” Vaughn stared at Ryan, waiting for him to bring up a subject they had yet to discuss. “And in case you were wondering, I do have an option to work for another family here if my owner decides to sell to you. I won’t be out of a job.” “Sorry, Vaughn, I didn’t even think about that.” Truth told, although Vaughn had been nothing but amiable and receptive to his requests to visit the area, there was still something uneasy about him. Vaughn stood about five foot nine, the same height as Ryan. He

14

Maya DeLeina

was a little overweight, and Ryan determined his age to be around fifty years old from the gray in his hair and wear on his face. Still, Vaughn wielded some undefined creepiness that Ryan couldn’t quite pinpoint. “Tell me something.” Vaughn stepped back around the cart to the driver seat as Ryan slid into the seat next to him. “Why do you want this so bad? My employer is not even willing to let you tour the home, yet you still pursue this. You do very well for yourself. Certainly someone of your stature would already own a magnificent home.” “I do very well for myself,” Ryan said sharply. He scanned the neighborhood as he shook his head in veneration. “And, I do have a nice home. But this is Ambrose Heights. Being here would be different for me. This is the epitome of prestige and stature. To live here means recognition, distinction from everyone else out there. Just look how many homes are here, how exclusive this community is. How many people make this drive, sit up here looking over the town, and call this place home? Not many.” “Not many,” Vaughn said, confirming Ryan’s assessment. “I can’t get this living anywhere else but here. I want recognition. I want status. I want Ambrose Heights.” “Well-crafted response, well crafted,” said Vaughn as he nodded. He started the engine and maneuvered the cart leisurely along the cobblestone street. “So, why is the owner entertaining my proposal?” Ryan asked, his gaze fixated on the homes. “For the right price, anything is negotiable.” Vaughn slowed the cart to a stop and turned to Ryan. “And, for the right individual, Ambrose Heights is negotiable, too.” Vaughn’s last line echoed in Ryan’s head as a smile slowly materialized. For the first time, becoming a resident of Ambrose Heights felt promising. Ryan slid back in his seat and absorbed his surroundings. He remained silent as Vaughn steered his way back to the gated entrance. Every visit to Ambrose Heights renewed Ryan’s desire to live there. Every detail—the entry gates, the AH-monogrammed sign, the personnel uniforms and landscaping—was always pristine and immaculate. And the streets were always quiet. No activity. No noise.

Veil of Seduction

15

Perfect setting for my retreat, Ryan thought as he closed his eyes and took a deep breath, savoring the tang and sensation of the crisp mountain air. **** “Ryan, I hope are you are sitting down. Vaughn called. The offer is being accepted.” “Alan White, my attorney extraordinaire, I knew you could do it!” Ryan said with enthusiasm. “There are conditions.” Ryan stood up slowly from his desk and paced his office, anxious expectancy coiling throughout his body. He treaded lightly across the black concrete floors, his movement reflecting in the high, polished sheen. The walls were black, the leather furniture supple. An old-world globe cabinet tilted open, displaying a collection of glasses and expensive liquors. The intricate details etched in its antiqued shell paired nicely with the rich cherrywood. René Magritte’s The Son of the Man painting sat prominently above the granite fireplace as the orange flames radiated from the graphite and alpine fireplace crystals. He’d spared no expense. The office was posh, the essence of masculine extravagance. “What are the conditions?” Ryan asked, his eagerness firing little bits of lightning in the room as he engaged the speaker phone. “First, the house is to be sold as is. No inspections,” Alan responded, a slight wavering ringing in his words. “And let me guess…there is a second condition, right?” “Yes. They also rejected our proposal option to buy the land. Apparently the Matthews family owns title to all the land and they intend on keeping it that way. This means the property would be sold as a leasehold. The bright side is they are willing to set a lease contract for twenty years.” Ryan settled at the window and gazed at the mountain range where Ambrose Heights stood. “Meaning I just have to wait twenty years before they can fuck me over with inflated lease payments. Doesn’t get brighter than that, I guess.” Alan sighed. Ryan could hear him shuffle through the papers on the other side of the line.

16

Maya DeLeina

“Well, there is one more thing…a third condition.” “What is it, Alan?” “They want to complete the deal within forty-eight hours.” A long pause sounded on the line, airy and unsettling. “Since you are not securing a mortgage on the property, technically, the inspection counter is not a problem. But Ryan, I would strongly advise against the deal. I know the owner is thought to be an eccentric, but this stipulation is absurd! It’s Ambrose Heights, yes, but to give up your right to an inspection? Ridiculous!” Alan waited a second before continuing. “And closing within forty-eight hours—” Interrupting Alan, Ryan snapped in response, “Alan, do you not see that this is my moment? That I can have Ambrose Heights? I’m not going to pass on this! I have been beyond hopeful, beyond prepared for this very news! All of these months of moving money here, transferring assets there—all of the painstaking efforts, and now the funds are successfully in place. You know this, yet you are advising against it? I pay you a lot of money to take care of the legal issues, not for your opinion.” “Actually, I make a good living for exactly that…my opinion,” Alan said bluntly. Ryan took a deep breath in, reining in his outburst as he leaned against the window. He closed his eyes tightly as he spoke, “Look, you said the guy is eccentric. True. But most of all, he is a control fiend.” Ryan paused and opened his eyes. “Don’t you see his game? These drawn-out negotiations, numerous changes to the contract, days without calls, calls in the middle of the night? They’re all methodically crafted to fulfill his need for dominance. This closing stipulation of two days and no inspection…it is just his last effort, a means to dangle me by his strings one last time. I’ll play his game if it means my ass will be perched on top of the mountain, in that house, sipping champagne and looking down at all of the fucking people in town. They will envy me!” “You realize that we would have to close by Thursday?” Alan replied, making a last effort to sound his opinion carefully in the matter. “Accept the deal with the conditions, Alan. I want Ambrose Heights.” Ryan firmly accentuated his last line. “Make the necessary arrangements to the property title as we planned. I’ll work on her over the weekend to sign the quitclaim deed.”

Veil of Seduction

17

“And, as for the remaining matter?’ “What about it?” “Well, have you changed your mind, or are we to proceed as planned after the title transfer is complete?” Alan questioned. Ryan sighed. “Anya. Yes, proceed. All I want is Anise.”

18

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Two The Mercedes G550 maneuvered through the switchbacks of the mountain pass that led to Ambrose Heights. Ryan was a little on edge as he’d never made the trip at dusk and the light snow flurry that had started earlier in the evening was now heavier and sticking to the road. A sense of relief washed over him as he finally came upon the only straightaway in the journey. This was his perfect opportunity. He rolled his shoulders, slid back into the seat warmers, and allowed his hands to loosen their grip on the wheel. Slowly, he glided his hands around the steering wheel, enjoying the sensation the texture created on his palms. Ryan was consumed with absolute contentment as he reflected in the silence. The house. The Mercedes. They are mine. He pictured what the house would look like at night, how he would tower above the sparkle and shimmer of the city below. He wondered about the exact number of people he could pack in the house when he was ready to throw himself a housewarming party. The guest list would be long and obviously take some methodical planning. He would be strategic, inviting the right people who could spread the word about his extravagant purchase. In the right hands, the invitation could lead to more opportunities, maybe even land a feature story in the architectural magazine. But this time, he would be on the cover. Fulfillment washed over him as he took a deep breath. His nostrils immediately filled with the scent of leather, but through the air of masculinity, a spice-laced perfume delicately surfaced. His gaze traveled to the passenger seat. He soaked in her beautiful features as she slept. Her olive-tone skin, her long, silky, black hair, her

Veil of Seduction

19

slender legs, he loved everything about her. He softly caressed her cheek with the back of his hand and edited his previous thought. The house. The Mercedes. The beauty by my side. They are mine. She was his latest acquisition. Like a trophy on display, she glistened. Her attractiveness radiated a discernible vibrancy. He shook his head in adoration. It was the newness of her and the ability to parade her around in his new social circle for which he held a categorical anticipation. Surely the wealthy men of Ambrose Heights would be envious of his ownership. Without a doubt, they would have the most exquisite taste, a real eye for a stunning beauty. And Anise DeVera was nothing less than stunning. She was adventurous, animated, and so full of life. Every day was filled with anticipation, every evening sparked with passion. She made him feel fresh, young, and wild. Being with her reignited his passion and possibilities in his life. Anise caught his hand in hers, planting a loving kiss with her full lips. Her almond-shaped eyes opened, and she looked up at him. Instantly, thoughts of the house were now replaced with random images of their passionate lovemaking. Things he wanted to do to her. Things he would do for her. They would work at christening every part of the house. A deep sense of hunger burned through him. How much longer is the drive? She placed his hand on the steering wheel and let her hand travel to his knee. He took a deep breath and slowly exhaled in response to her touch. She rubbed his knee with one hand. Sensing her intention, Ryan parted his legs and slid forward in his seat, allowing his crotch to rise slightly. He immediately reached for a control button that sent the steering column in a receding motion, affording her more accessibility. With some reach, he maintained control of the wheel. Slowly, her hand glided up along his inner thigh. Ryan’s eyes darted between the road and Anise’s exploratory hands. She moved with precision, leaving a trail of tormenting sparks to pierce down to his bones. With every touch, he responded with a tremble and his

20

Maya DeLeina

breath grew deeper. He parted his lips, rimming his tongue along his bottom lip. On her last swipe up his thigh, she angled her hand so her fingers were pointing upward and delicately cupped his crotch. She ran her thumb and middle finger up and down each side of his hardness that was clearly outlined beneath the material. He throbbed under his trousers in anticipation of what she was planning on doing next. Adjusting herself on the seat, Anise leaned into Ryan. Pulling on his zipper, her craving-filled eyes were focused and targeted. She found her way to his briefs and methodically tucked her fingers in the opening of the material in search for his cock. The tip was already glistening with a bead of excitement. Ryan put his hand on the back of her head and motioned her down. Her mouth took him with authority and excitement. Ryan let out a moan. She moved up and down, allowing her tongue to trace every vein and contour in a wet exploration. His fingers splayed the width of her skull. Desire mounted and soon, Ryan’s hands were demanding, dictating the moment and directing her pace. Ryan tilted his head back, savoring the feeling of her warm mouth taking him in. Suddenly, a thunderous strike echoed through the vehicle and shattered the moment. She immediately responded to the violent jerk, quickly releasing Ryan and returned to the safety of her seat. From Ryan’s estimation, he had hit a deep pothole in the road. He looked in the rearview mirror instinctively but could only see darkness. Ryan nervously tucked himself back into the trousers and steadied both hands on the wheel. “A little help with the zipper?” he asked as he tried to regain concentration on the road. She leaned forward to help him. The polished, red jasper that hung from the rearview mirror swiftly sparked his attention. From the impact, the stone swayed back and forth in a rhythmic pendulum swing. He gazed at the stone, the movement hypnotic, conjuring up memories. Memories he did not want to evoke.

Veil of Seduction

21

At once, a sharp pain suspended in the hollow of his chest as the image of his wife flooded his mind, recalling their exchange earlier that day. “This is for your car, honey,” Anya’s sultry voice echoed in his head. She’d stood in their driveway, dangling a package in front of him as he turned over the engine. A shawl rested on her shoulders, outlining her lowcut white embroidered tunic. Her long bohemian skirt blew gracefully in the light wind. She pulled her hair behind her ear on one side, exposing her exuberant smile as she walked to the passenger door. Anya’s shapely body stirred something in him as he watched her walk in front of the SUV. She opened the door and leaned in through the passenger seat to hang her present on his rearview mirror, creating the most advantageous view of her cleavage. Ryan closed his eyes tightly and shook his head, reminding himself of the decision he had already made. By that evening, he would be gone. “It’s red jasper. It is said to protect against harm, especially against hazards that come at night.” Anya looked up at Ryan with a smile and reached to cup his jawline in her hand. “Perfect for you, Mr. Workaholic. I would feel a lot better if this was with you. ” “And, I suppose I have Michelle to thank for this as well?” She shrugged innocently before giving him a quick peck on the lips. “My last lesson cancelled for this evening, so I can be home early. Call me when you’re about to leave the office and we can hurry and start the weekend.” Ryan nodded in response, watching her make her way to her car. From the moment he first saw Anya, he was captivated. He watched her command attention, dominate all focus in a room. He saw the way men would stop and stare, clamor for her attention. More than just an exotic beauty, she was a treasure, an indispensable asset that could solidify a man’s worth. Without a second thought, he knew right then and there, he had to have her. When she’d taken his name, he soaked in all of the covetous eyes, relishing his possession. But he soon realized deep in his core he craved variety, novelty in the unfamiliar and adventure in the unexpected. All things a marriage could not easily afford. He’d waited, watching her car disappear around the bend from his rearview mirror. Ryan cut the Mercedes engine and stepped out of the

22

Maya DeLeina

vehicle, back onto the driveway. He hurried, entering their home, and retrieved the suitcase he had concealed in the coat closet. He’d worked all week to inconspicuously pack for his getaway. He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a square envelope. He ran his fingers over the envelope one last time as he balanced the letter against a vase that sat on the foyer’s entry table. Ryan’s thoughts drifted back to the present, concentrating on the last few miles of his drive. The red jasper’s hypnotic swing was now reduced to a simple sway, breaking any hold it once had on him. He glanced at the time. Anya should be making her way home. His plan was moving along like clockwork. Everything spilled into that letter, waiting to be revealed. After five years of marriage, his love for her diminished. Life became too predictable, too routine, and too ordinary. There was no fire, no passion. He wished to start a new life, a life with someone new. He looked over at the passenger seat and gazed at Anise. The woman had stolen his heart. She was the unique fire that rekindled everything he’d lost. In that moment, he settled his thoughts, confident in his decision. The straightway ended and the last set of sharp turns in the road before reaching the gates of Ambrose Heights were coming up. The stretch of road that had no guardrails, he mentally noted. The snow was now heavier, quickly diminishing visibility in the darkness. Ryan readjusted himself in the seat as his foot lightened its demand on the gas pedal. Anise reached for her seat belt. She tugged and pulled, but all she could capture was the smoothness of the fabric. Somewhere behind the seat, the belt’s metal fitting had gotten tangled. She turned around in her seat, pressing her cheek against the cold window and reached behind to untangle the belt. “What are you doing?” Ryan asked. “My seat belt is stuck and I’m trying to…” she said. “Do it gently!” Ryan barked. “The leather…I’d like to keep it looking new. Your long nails can do some real damage. Have you seen my back lately? I had to work at hiding it from her all week.”

Veil of Seduction

23

“All right,” she said with a slight agitation in her tone. She fumbled around a little more then exclaimed, “Got it!” **** Anise lifted her cheek from the cold glass and exposed the metal fitting of the belt. As she adjusted, allowing her hand to pull the belt up and around her, she glanced out the window. Two red orbs met her eyes. She frowned. Blinking curiously, she leaned in closer to see what the red objects were. The red, fiery orbs disappeared for a brief second and reappeared again. She closed her eyes tight and rubbed her eyelids, one with her thumb and the other with her forefinger. With fresh eyes, she settled into her stare. The window was speckled with snowflakes, some dense in their formation and some just delicate traces across the glass. Her eyes were playing tricks on her, moving in and out of focus, marring her ability to clearly see what lay beyond in the darkness. She sank deep into her gaze, relaxing her eyes as if looking at a piece of 3-D art. The bright-white patterning of the snow blurred, receding into the background, allowing the darkness to become the forefront. Suddenly, the image was fully revealed. In an instant, she pulled back. The harsh realization that the objects were two eyes blinking back at her was crushing. Anise froze in fear, focusing in on the eyes. They were sinister and chilling. She evaluated further, her eyes now fine-tuned, rendering defined features one by one. Gray-toned skin, an eerie chalkiness in its texture, deep-seated wrinkles, and sharp, elongated teeth came into focus. It wasn’t human. It wasn’t an animal. She couldn’t say for sure what she was looking at. It was a creature. The eyes were familiar in their penetration, exuding wickedness and reveling in malicious intent. Of that, she was sure. Her frozen state of shock wore off, and fear gripped her beyond control. She let out a high-pitched scream and pushed back into Ryan’s lap, her left elbow hitting the steering wheel, sending the car into a sharp turn in the opposite direction of the path of the road ahead.

24

Maya DeLeina

“What the fuck! What are you doing?” Ryan screamed. He slammed on the brakes and tried to regain control of the vehicle. She was wild, screaming and clutching at Ryan. “What the—? Get off! What’s wrong? Stop!” Ryan screeched crazily in incomplete sentences. He overcorrected the turn and clipped the side of the mountain, sending them into a spin. **** The chain of events played out in slow motion, fuzzy in its detail and muted in its sound. Ryan looked at Anise, feverishly working to place the metal fitting into the buckle of her seat belt without success. Her long, black hair suspended in the air around her, the ends whipping across her face. Her eyes wielded sheer panic and fear, her expression frozen in terror. The red jasper swung aberrantly, slow in its viscous circle pattern. Ryan reached for the stone, ripping it off of the mirror, clutching it in his hand, and bringing it to his chest. Real time burst back into reality, unleashing all the recklessness and haste of the scene, amplifying the sounds of crunching metal, breaking glass, howling wind, and stabbing screams laced with unrestrained adrenaline and fright. The SUV slammed into the side of the mountain. Once, bang. Twice, bang. The metal frame crushed and ripped against the granite rock before flipping over, sending it sliding on the icy road along its passenger side. The window shattered with the force. Ryan watched in horror as Anise’s arm got caught between the road and the spinning SUV, breaking it instantly. Her scream in agony pierced Ryan down to his bones. In the momentum of slide, Ryan watched helplessly as Anise’s flesh mangled against the pebbled asphalt. Inch by inch, her body was being pulled out slowly through the window and under the spin of the vehicle. Ryan moved the jasper to his left hand and caught Anise’s wrist with his right. He was white-knuckled, trying desperately to pull her back in the

Veil of Seduction

25

vehicle’s cabin. Luggage and shopping bags that had been placed neatly in the backseat hurled at them, becoming projectiles. With force, a bag came crashing into Ryan’s hand and he lost his grip on Anise. In the heart-wrenching moment, Ryan caught Anise’s gaze, imploring for rescue. They held their stare on each other for a brief moment, knowing and silent in the final parting. Violently, she was fully ejected out of the vehicle through the window, her exposed body crushed under the weight of the SUV. Ryan closed his eyes. As he feared, the vehicle started its slide closer and closer to edge, teetering right at the brink. Bags and other belongings projected out of the vehicle, scattering all along the road. He had lost all control of the situation. She was gone. There was nothing he could do. He whispered a silent prayer as his tears rolled down his cheek. In an instant, Ryan’s eyes ignited, opening with intensity. He took a quick breath and held it. This was it. The SUV fell abruptly from the road, plunging to the bottom of the forested valley, no guard rail to stop it.

26

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Three Anise lay sprawled out on the snow-covered road as snowflakes gathered on her face. She opened her eyes and quickly pushed herself up to a sitting position to examine her body. Running her hand across her face, head, arm, abdomen, chest, and thigh, she was in complete awe of how quickly her injuries healed. Each break, tear, and puncture was excruciatingly painful, and while she knew her injuries would be healed, a recovery from the extent of the damage was not anticipated. Trepidation washed over her. Surely, her body exceeded its limit to complete the speedy repair. This could mean weeks of rest to replenish her healing mechanisms due to her infancy. She’d hoped she would at least have some residual energy left to repair Ryan. Anise stood up and brushed off the snow that collected on her clothing. She examined her surroundings and what was left of the accident. The SUV was nowhere to be found. All that remained were shattered pieces of glass, a taillight, a side mirror, and a few pieces of her and Ryan’s belongings scattered along the road. Anise ran to the edge of the road and looked over the cliff. The headlights of the Mercedes pierced through the darkness like spotlights. Running her eyes frantically along the landscape, Anise examined the formation of the trees to determine her next move. The SUV had fallen to a depth that would require more energy than she had for manifestation. This also made the option of flight absolutely out of the question. Decisively, Anise made the only decision she could. She was going to climb her way down to Ryan.

Veil of Seduction

27

Anise ran to her personal belongings that scattered the road. She desperately searched for her duffel bag and purse. “Where are they? I need the serums!” she said in a panicked voice. With a sigh of relief, she picked up the duffel bag, throwing it over her shoulder. And as she hooked her arm through the handles of her purse, she heard heavy breathing behind her. With breath held, her body went rigid in fright. In an instant, Anise sensed it was him. “Dominic?” She turned around and shuddered at the sight of his wretched shell. “So, it was you! I didn’t expect you to be still alive!” she said as she took a closer look at him. “My god! Look at you!” Dominic was feeble. His skin hung from his bones, dull gray, almost chalklike. Even as she examined him, he continued to deteriorate in front of her eyes. His bottom jaw caved in, exposing his stained, triangular teeth. Two teeth fell from his gums and turned to dust as they hit the ground. A clump of hair fell from his head and disintegrated in the wind. “Dominic, you officially lost the only part of you that I ever truly loved…your good looks,” she said. “I hope this death will be as painful as the time you made me spend with you.” She turned her back on Dominic, intent to make her way to the aspen grove to save Ryan. In any other scenario, Dominic’s presence would have struck absolute fright and panic. But he had been reduced to a pathetic creature, and she quickly seized the opportunity and positioned herself with the upper hand. Suddenly, Dominic manifested in front of her. His sunken eyes reignited to a fiery, red glow that startled her. He reached for her chin and delicately held it in his hand. “My love, you agreed to become my mate. You wanted to be my mate. And so, you drank from me and I claimed you. Don’t you remember what I told you about the claim? Our blood bonds us together for eternity.” Dominic released her chin and began to circle her trembling body. Tears rolled down her cheek. She was suddenly aware that he still held residual power and energy even through the depletion process. As he made his way behind her, he clutched her long hair firmly in his fist and pulled her head back with force.

28

Maya DeLeina

“You started this process. And since you were just a newborn, you’ve graced me with very little time before depletion takes me!” he whispered forebodingly in her ear. He released her hair and threw her head forward. “You know you are the only one who can save me, so I will ask. Do you wish to return as my mate?” She shook her head in a response. “I–I didn’t know what I was agreeing to, Dominic. Forgive me. But I can’t. I can’t be yours!” Her tears intensified as she tried to reason with Dominic. “I realized that I was in love with Ryan. After you turned me, I still remembered him. I still had feelings for him. I carried him through to my immortality. Please understand. I can’t love you!” Sighing, Dominic responded, “And where was this love for Ryan during those nights of the claim? You came freely to my bed. You burned with need and desire for me, for my body, all those nights. You wanted me to take you. You begged me to take you.” “I didn’t know! I didn’t know this is what I was agreeing to!” she cried, pleading for his forgiveness. “Please, Dominic. Please, I can’t do this. I didn’t fully understand what I had done.” “Our kind mates for life. There is no going back.” Dominic’s tone was chillingly even. He turned his back to her and whispered, “Remember, I go, you go.” “I go?” She grabbed Dominic’s shoulders and turned him around to look at her. “My heart was never true to you! I never belonged to you! Look at me, I haven’t depleted at all!” “My sweet love, I chose you as my mate for life, and you failed me. Yes, it is true. You have not depleted, and you will not deplete. You are as beautiful as ever and you will continue on in your perfect form for eternity.” Dominic leaned into her ear and whispered. “But, surely you don’t think I would ever let that happen.” Dominic pulled back and searched her eyes. “I’ve planned this very moment, to see your face, to see the same intense fear and anguish that you have caused me. I want to see it burn in your eyes. It’s all I could think about since you left.” He leaned in closer to her face,

Veil of Seduction

29

She watched him watch her. An evil fury burned in his eyes. Horror gripped her like never before. “Ahh! There’s the fear I craved. I saved enough energy so we could share in the rest of my life…together as mates. ” In one sweeping motion, they were gone. **** Ryan felt the cold surrounding him, the sensation collecting on the left side of his body. He slowly opened his eyes. The Mercedes came to rest on its passenger side. A layer of powder from the deployed airbags covered his face. The passenger seat was filled with a mixture of blood and powder, but it was empty. He remained pinned in the driver seat, suspended by the seat belt with all the pressure on the right side of his body. Pain consumed him, and he realized the extent of his injuries. A bone protruded through his left thigh. His right wrist was broken. Blood streamed from the top of his head and down his face. The mix of the powder and blood burned as it ran freely into his eyes. He felt light-headed. His vision blurred. Ryan closed his eyes. The faint sound of crunching snow renewed his senses, and he forced his eyes open. The crunching became louder, and Ryan didn’t know whether he should be elated at the thought of being rescued or terrified. Why would someone be out here? Oh my god, maybe it’s her, she’s okay! Did she climb down in the dark? Maybe I didn’t fall that far down the mountain. His mind was a frenzy, questions darting from every direction. He was about to call out to her when a hand came through his driver’s side window and rested on his chest. The hand probed his body, searching and evaluating. There was power behind the touch. Somehow, Ryan knew it was not her. “You only have a few moments left,” a deep male voice spoke as he hovered over the window. “You must decide quickly.” “Help me,” whispered Ryan. He tried to turn to see his rescuer, but all he saw was a dark shadow from the corner of his eye. “Listen to me carefully. You’re lucky that I am here first. If the others would’ve found you…you may not have had a choice.” The shadow leaned in closer to Ryan. “Tell me what you wish for yourself. I can leave you here

30

Maya DeLeina

untouched, allowing your injuries to consume you, or I can quickly rid you of your pain, allowing you immediate peace and serenity in death.” The shadow paused, leaning even closer to whisper in Ryan’s ear. “Or I can repair your body. But with this choice, you will forever be a black ink darkness, walking this earth as something unnatural.” His voice was calm, unhurried, and melodic. Ryan noted a rhythmic accent in his speech. “Save me. Save my life, please!” pleaded Ryan as tears started to mix in with the blood. A low growl came from the shadow’s chest. “You are not listening carefully. I am not giving you the option of life, but rather…” “I need her. I have nothing without her!” Ryan blurted out. He feared she would be dead, but he clung to hope that she’d somehow survived. Amidst the pain, his mind raced. What am I going to do? She needs to sign the deed papers, he thought to himself in a panic. In an instant, Ryan felt the shadow pull back. And while he couldn’t see them, he could feel evaluating eyes transfix on him. The shadow broke the stillness of the moment. Through Ryan’s cloudy vision he watched the shadow lift his head and scan the grove of Aspen trees and large boulders that surrounded them. “What? What is it? Is someone else out there?” Ryan asked. The shadow looked back down at Ryan and reached for his clutched fist. Cold fingers explored Ryan’s bare ring finger. “What are you doing?” Ryan screeched in panic. The shadow moved in close to Ryan’s ear. For the first time, the words spoken took on a humanlike character. “You are choosing, not based on the pain you are in but rather the love you have in your heart for another? I can’t take that away from you. If your human bond is strong, you will remember her and carry it with you through the turning. You will reunite again. I will do this for you.” “Thank you,” whispered Ryan in response without fully understanding what he had agreed to. In an instant, Ryan passed out from the pain. ****

Veil of Seduction

31

The jasper dropped from the injured man’s clutched fist into the hands of Steffan. Steffan tugged frantically on the hood of his black coat, pulling it down and exposing his face. His silver eyes focused on his clutched fist. Cautiously, he opened it and revealed the jasper resting in the palm of his hand. Suddenly, electric currents shot through his body and he once again clutched the stone in his hand. A sweet scent of a woman penetrated his senses. Fragmented, undulating visions projected in his mind—silky, black hair, sun-kissed skin, a strand of pearls, a sweeping instrument bow and a partial view of a symbol, one that he could not readily identify. He’d never felt anything like that before. Someone of great importance to him, someone whom he had yet to meet, had a connection to that stone. “Could it be?” Steffan contemplated as his heart pounded both in excitement and trepidation. Whoever it was and whatever it meant, it would have to wait to be sorted out. He had a promise to fulfill to the man who lay dying in front of him. Carefully, Steffan placed the stone in his coat jacket. He pushed up the sleeve of his jacket and bit out a chunk of flesh from his wrist. The gaping wound pumped out thick, black blood. He situated the wound over the man and poured the blood into his mouth. The man choked and gagged. “Drink!” Steffan screamed. He squeezed his face and leaned in. “Drink, please,” he said slowly this time. The man’s eyes were wide with fear as he swallowed as instructed. Instantly, his body shook uncontrollably. He broke free from the seat belt and fell against the passenger doorframe of the SUV. Steffan lifted the vehicle upright, dragging the man out through the shattered window, and laid him down in the snow. The man’s eyes flew open and rolled back over and over again into his head. Steffan crouched over him as he watched the violent eye rolls continue. Then suddenly, they stopped. The man’s eyes froze in an open gaze. His pupils clouded over.

32

Maya DeLeina

Like clockwork, sparks of color danced along the outer edge of his eyes, signaling the beginning of the eye inversion. Steffan leaned in closer and waited for it. From the outer edges inward, the whites of his eyes slowly turned black. “Black!” yelled Steffan. He slammed his fists into the ground and shook his head in disappointment. “You deceived me!” Completing their transformation, the man’s eyes began to violently roll again and Steffan backed off. The veins throughout the man’s face were engorged and pulsing, turning black under his skin. He tried to scream out in pain, but nothing came out. With haste, Steffan leaned in and ripped the wool coat and shirt that covered the man’s chest and arms to shreds. Thin, black veins crept from his heart, through his shoulder, and down his arm to settle at his wrist. The delicate webbing of veins covered his wound and seemed to sew the wrist back in place. The man slowly lifted his wrist. He moved it back and forth, a look of disbelief plastered on his face. He turned his attention to Steffan. And while he didn’t speak one word, his eyes seemed to beg for answers. And as fast as they appeared, the webs faded, completely absorbing into the man’s skin. Suddenly, the man jerked and looked down at his leg. Steffan ripped the man’s trousers from his body, exposing the stringy black webs that congregated on the exposed bone in his thigh, mending the injury. Steffan sighed. The repair mechanism and eye inversion were complete. There was no mistaking it. The man was now a vampire. And he was Steffan’s newborn. Slowly rising over his newborn’s body, Steffan brushed his tongue over his self-inflicted wound, instantly healing his arm. He closed his eyes and tilted his head back. He raised a hand to his chest and rubbed against the jasper through his long black coat. Even through the material, shards of energy penetrated his body. Steffan stood still in the moonlight, basking in the sensation. Snowflakes shimmered all around him, collecting in his hair and settling onto the blackness that cloaked him from head to toe

Veil of Seduction

33

Steffan brought his head forward and caught his newborn’s evaluating stare. He slowly raised one eyebrow. “Black or not, it cannot be undone. You have already begun. You are my responsibility. You are my newborn.” Steffan reached for his vampire, lifting him from the ground. In one sweeping motion, Steffan took to the sky with his newborn safely tucked in his arms.

34

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Four Anya Evans’s long, slender legs wrapped around the instrument as her fingers graced the strings of the cello. Bach’s cello “Suite No. 1 in G major” filled the room with a heavenly sweetness. As the last rays of the sunset spilled through the windows, the golden hues glistened against her olive skin and bounced off the movements of her bow. Her last student of the day had cancelled the early evening lesson, and since she still hadn’t heard from Ryan, she spent the time enjoying the way the acoustics seemed to carry each note and suspend in the room with an undefined enchantment. She closed her eyes and let the music flow through her body. The beauty of the melody transported her and rejuvenated her spirit. Hours passed, and Anya packed away her cello safely in its case. She walked the width of the room, listening to the resonating tones each footstep made against the wooden floor. She settled at the window and gazed at the scenery outside. Steam emanated from the long stacks of the cooling towers of the nearby power plant. The white clouds hovered over the building and slowly separated, taking on various forms and shapes. Against the darkened sky, they looked like large apparitions, morphing eerily as their shades of white were highlighted by the moonlight. She reached for the red jasper that hung from a delicate, black velvet cord around her neck and stroked the polished stone with her thumb and forefinger. She fell deeper in her gaze, leaning her forehead against the cool pane of glass. A light snow flurry was now discernable. The purity of the snow, its delicate, lacy quality, suddenly changed the mood. The scene outside seemed to evoke romance, altering the ghostlike clouds to take on a much different form. The clouds now looked like two lovers in an embrace. She was captivated with the sight.

Veil of Seduction

35

Anya lifted the stone, pressing it against her lips, and smiled as she reminisced about the first intimate exchange with her husband. “Ryan!” Anya whimpered in the heat of passion. Ryan reached up, tracing his thumb against her lips. Her breath was hot and erratic. Her long hair swayed back and forth with her rhythmic movement. She rode him, naughty and wild. “Jesus…you’re so beautiful,” Ryan moaned, his breathing labored and lustful. Anya knew he had waited for this very moment. After all, he courted her months on end, doing and saying all the right things. In the end, it was something as simple as a conversation about his family tragedy some fourteen years ago that finally won her over. As he wanted, she was on full display for him. With each move, Anya lured Ryan into a hypnotic spell. She was creative, vibrating and swirling with undulating moves. She enraptured Ryan as she performed a slow and erotic grind down his shaft. She lifted her arms, running her hands sensually through her hair and then traced back down slowly, cupping her breast in an offering gesture to Ryan. “Kiss,” Anya begged. Ryan lifted and brought his mouth to her breast. He wasted no time in any delicacy. He took her in, sucking hard. Ryan lay back down, laced his hands between the intricate carvings in the headboard, and focused on Anya. “Make me come, Anya,” Ryan demanded as he remained motionless under her. Anya leaned forward, her fingers splayed across Ryan’s chest, bracing herself for her devouring. She looked down at him, melting in his stare. Ryan was beautiful. She had never used that word to describe a man before. Beauty was typically reserved to describe traits in a woman. Yet somehow, beauty captured everything about Ryan—his curling eyelashes, expressive, brown eyes, unblemished, white skin, perfect bone structure. He was a pictureperfect sight. His look undoubtedly required effort, but the results were nothing short of impressive.

36

Maya DeLeina

Anya lifted from him, just enough to expose the tip of his cock. Teasingly, she held still for an excruciating moment and then slid down, engulfing him fully. She gained momentum, each movement growing more obsessive, more needful, and more intense. Anya thrashed about, her hair unruly, her breasts wild in its display as she fucked Ryan like an animal. All at once, Ryan sat up, wrapped his arms tightly around her waist, and shot his release deep inside her. A thunderous moan resonated deep from his core, signaling his pure satisfaction. Still planted at the window, Anya snapped back into reality and sighed. Ryan may have not been the most attentive lover when it came to her needs, but at least he had an undeniable excitement and passion burning for her…back then. Anya clutched the red jasper tightly and closed her eyes. How she would give anything for just a trace of that physical connection with him. For months now, Ryan had seemed withdrawn mentally from the marriage, and as it stood in the present, physical connection seemed to fall by the wayside as well. “Michelle,” she said to herself as she opened her eyes. Her best friend Michelle owned Mystic’s Mirth, a metaphysical shop in town. The shop was situated in the quaint town of Manitou Springs. The area was a tourist attraction, known for its natural springs and their powers. Various spigots that allowed sampling of the healing waters dotted the sidewalks. Each spout was decorated with a distinct flair. Some were designed as bronze sculptures while some were shaped as a wishing well. Michelle’s shop sat in direct line with one of the spigots, an advantageous locale along the main thoroughfare. She would brief the tourists on the healing properties associated with the natural springs along with the rocks and crystals that were mined locally and sold in her shop. Anya reached for her cell phone that sat on the music stand and dialed Michelle’s number. “And why are you calling me? Is Ryan not home yet?” “Is that how you answer the phone? No hello?” Anya asked sharply. “Hello.” She laughed and shook her head. “I haven’t heard from him yet. I’m still at the studio.”

Veil of Seduction

37

“You haven’t left? You know, it’s getting nasty out there and as far north as you have to drive, the roads are probably a bit more slick and snow packed.” “I know. I know.” She cradled the phone with her shoulder to free her two hands to search among her belongings. “I got everything packed up and I am heading out. Wasn’t it just forty-nine degrees yesterday, and now we’re at twenty-one? “C’est la vie! Anya, you lived here long enough to know that you never know what you’re going to get with the weather out here in Colorado! It’s too unpredictable—especially for October.” Anya stopped fiddling with her bags in an air of defeat. “Damnit, I wasn’t thinking and only brought my shawl with me.” She readjusted, grabbing the phone with her hand to relieve the ache in her shoulder. “Anyway, I just wanted to call and thank you for the stones. They arrived yesterday. I have one around my neck and I hung the other from Ryan’s rearview mirror this morning. You didn’t have to deliver them, you know, I could’ve stopped by the shop.” “I know. I wanted to surprise you with them. Aren’t they beautiful?” “Very beautiful. The crystal vein running through them is neat.” “And, what did you tell him about it?” Michelle questioned. A singing quality lingered in her words. “Like you said, that red jasper is a very protective stone…” “What about the other metaphysical properties?” “Michelle, he doesn’t believe in that kind of stuff. And you know I’m not too convinced of these things myself, but I’m willing to try anything at this point. Besides, how would I have put it to him? Here, honey, Michelle gave us red jasper because it is said to have powerful sex-magic properties that can arouse extreme passion in lovers. See, I told her about our nonexistent sex life lately, and she just wanted to help…” “All right, point taken. And you were right. I really just wanted to help. You’re in the prime of your sex life. For you and Ryan to be…dead in that department, it’s not natural. I’m just saying…” “I know.” “Don’t forget, you both have to be ‘like’ in mind, in spirit for the stone to work. It doesn’t work if it is just one-sided. Find a way to him.”

38

Maya DeLeina

“Michelle, that is exactly why I put the stone in that beloved car of his. That’s the only thing that seems to excite him lately. Maybe that excitement will evoke something in him for me.” “I hope so, for your sake and your vajayjay!” “You are so gross, you know that?” “Hey, I just say the things you were already thinking.” “Okay. Well, I better get a move on and try to beat the weather before it gets any worse. Wish us luck for tonight.” “Will do. Drive carefully. Love you.” “Love you, too.” **** Anya locked up the studio, made her way down the hall to the elevator and headed out to the parking lot. Michelle was right, the snow was heavier. Just what I needed. She wrapped herself tight in her wool shawl and headed for the car. Instead of running, she took her time. Walking heel to toe, she purposely planted each step with a marked firmness. The crisp sound of the gravel and snow crunching under her heels was like music to her ears. She threw her purse on the passenger seat and carefully packed her cello and music bags in the car. As she slid into the driver seat, she reached for her purse in search for her phone. She glanced at the call history. No missed calls. She tossed the phone back into the passenger seat. It had been weeks since Ryan had come home at a decent hour. She tried to calm herself by rationalizing that this was to be expected. After all, he’d explained his firm was working on an emerging energy deal that was going to require much of his time and attention. Somehow, though, she thought she saw a flicker of lust in her husband’s eyes earlier in the morning that caused her to be filled with hope and anticipation for tonight. Disappointment washed over her. She had a sinking feeling that the evening would not turn out they way she had hoped. She started the car and turned the heaters and seat warmers on high. She fiddled with her iPod, perusing her playlist selections for a bit, trying to find the best mood to set for her drive. Driving in this weather made her uneasy,

Veil of Seduction

39

and she needed all the help she could get to calm the raging nerves. She settled on a collection of ethnic instrumental music to carry her during her journey. Outside, it was brutal. The snow blew sideways, clinging to the windows of the car like magnets as the ice lathered itself on the roadway, lurking, making it barely visible. Inside, the flavor of the spice, the aroma of the incense and the passion of the sitar danced in the air. She imagined herself gliding through the open air market, barefoot, feeling the warm earth scrunching between her toes, massaging her with every step. She captured the sensation of her hair caressing her barely clothed back, her skirt’s lightweight, flowing, and breezy fabric weaving between her legs with the wind. She may have been in Colorado Springs, in the midst of a snowstorm, but the music was entrancing, taking her to the middle of a gypsy market along the Mediterranean Sea. Morocco, Cyprus, Egypt, or Turkey…it didn’t matter. Anywhere was an improvement to where she was right at that moment. Right on mark, the wind intensified as she merged onto the interstate. Visibility decreased the further north she drove. The SUV made its way from the freeway exit through the forest suburb and climbed up the long driveway to the home she had shared with Ryan for the past five years. Breathing a sigh a relief when she arrived home without incident, she released her white-knuckle grip from the steering wheel, unclenched her teeth, and gathered up her belongings in the front seat. She opened the entry door that spilled into a circular foyer. A gush of wind and snow blew into the house, scattering pieces of mail to the floor. She threw her purse, aiming for the wingback chair, but missed. It sailed to the ground, spilling its contents. With haste, she ran back to the car to retrieve her cello. The wind tossed her hair, whipping it against her face as she tried to control the upward movement of her long skirt. She ran back into the house with her cello in hand and fought against the strength of the wind to close the door. Wiping her windblown hair out of her face, she slid the dimmer control up to bathe the entire area with a bright light. She moved to pick up the pieces of mail that lay on the entrance floor. She crouched down to her purse and dug for her phone to see if Ryan had called during the commotion.

40

Maya DeLeina

No missed calls. She sat on the floor and leaned her head back against the curved wall to catch her breath. She opened her eyes and brought her head forward. She examined the foyer and hall for any missed pieces of mail. She noticed an envelope resting against the foot of the console. It was square in shape, not matching any of the elongated envelopes of the other pieces of mail that routinely included bills and credit card offers. Puzzled, she crawled to the envelope, picked it up, and rested her back against the console. She turned over the envelope to examine the address. On the front, it simply read, Anya. She tore open the envelope. A fiery ache traveled from the pit of her stomach and permeated her chest. With each word, sentence, paragraph revealed, a stinging sensation crept through her ears and nasal passages and settled to her eyes. Her body shook as the letter narrated in Ryan’s voice, the pain intensifying as his parting words echoed endlessly in her mind. I am truly sorry. But, this is what I want. Clutching the letter, she tried to release her pain in a cry, but the emotion came out like a silent scream. Tears began to fall as the haziness in her mind cleared, slowly comprehending every word she just read. She let her body tumble carelessly to the floor. As she drew in a deep breath, the agonizing, raw sound of heartache finally broke free and engulfed the house. **** It had been almost two weeks, and she had yet to receive some sort of contact from Ryan. No apologetic phone call. No visit to the house to collect his remaining belongings. No meeting scheduled to discuss division of property. No divorce papers served. In fact, he’d made no attempts to contact friends or business associates. The grief from the loss of a lover was a deep-seated hurt, but the grief of the utter silence was numbing. Anya walked around house wrapped in her soft white robe, clutching a hot cup of tea. She turned the handle outward, allowing her hands to freely engulf the sides of the mug and take in the warmth of the liquid. Sunlight peered through the openings of the closed drapes and bounced off the glass

Veil of Seduction

41

handle of her mug. The light filtering through the glass caught Anya’s attention as it created a rainbow prism on the living room wall. She leaned against the doorframe and moved the cup slowly up and down, sending the prism of light dancing on the wall and eliciting a slight smile in her expression. The prism’s dance landed on the metal object in the wall. Anya lowered the mug. Her eyes fixed on Ryan’s golf club that was embedded in his 60-inch, wall-mounted, flat-screen television. The smile disappeared instantly from her face. She turned to walk up the staircase and headed down the long hallway. Light strategically washed over the walls from the wire track system above. The light captured the memories of their life that decorated the walls. Wedding portraits and vacation photos were carefully patterned, allowing for expansion. The collage was a dedication and symbol to their love, spirit, and hopes for the future. Now, the pictures staring back at her were soulless, merely pieces of decor to adorn the wall. Glass crunched under her house slippers as she walked past the damaged photographs to the bedroom. In the closet, Ryan’s suits had been reduced to scraps of material, decimated by the sheering of sharp knives. The remains of designer shirts were crumbled into balls and stuffed into several garbage bags. The bags were filled, stretched past their capacity, and the contents were beginning to spill out of the top of the drawstring ties. The bags sat under Ryan’s bare hanging system that now only held a few empty hangers. Anya stood motionless, sickened with the destruction left in the wake of her wrath. She walked to the master bath and sat her cup on the counter. She stood clutching the counter’s edge as she looked at herself in the mirror. Her eyes flowed with heavy tears that clouded her vision. She knew it was time to begin the healing process and move on with her life. Slowly, she slipped off her wedding band and tucked it away in her jewelry box. Her chest went hollow, and she fell to the ground, sobbing wildly. The next few weeks turned the pain of Ryan’s abandonment into pure desolation. Living in the house, with so many memories, so many hopes, was insufferable, but she had nowhere else to go. Online banking statements showed that their shared banking accounts remained untouched by Ryan, but the investment income that supplied the accounts had been greatly reduced, and her weekly allowance supplied by Ryan’s company had stopped. A trip down to the bank revealed that Ryan

42

Maya DeLeina

had emptied out the emergency cash and jewelry that was in the safe-deposit box as well. Ryan managed all their finances, and she was beginning to uncover that much of their assets were in his name, entity names or had been simply transferred from their joint ownership to various accounts slowly over the last couple of months. She had no access rights to any funds. In fact, she had no rights to account inquiries, either, but most of the information she had uncovered had been made inadvertently by inept bank personnel. The drive home left her to analyze her finances. How could he leave me in this financial state? She pounded her palms into the steering wheel. This was a thought-out process he was planning for months! Questions swirled endlessly in her head as she drove. How could I have allowed this to happen? Why didn’t I insist on a more active role in the handling of the finances? Where am I going to get the money to pay for everything? She parked the car in the driveway and the recurring thought made its appearance again. Why did I mean so little to a man that I pledged my life to? She made her way straight to the kitchen as she entered the house. She threw her purse on the kitchen counter and filled a glass with tap water. Taking a hearty gulp of the water, she headed to the kitchen island. Biting down nervously on her pinky that she slipped between her teeth, she leaned against the island and examined the laid-out bills. She sifted through the stacks of papers in an attempt to occupy her thoughts for a bit. As she organized the bills by due dates, the telephone rang. “Hello?” “Hello. I’m calling for Mrs. Anya Evans,” a woman’s voice spoke on the other line. A faint echo reverberated from the line. The silence had a loud, airy quality. Anya realized she was on a speaker phone. “This is she.” “Mrs. Evans, this is Detective Doyle from CSPD’s Violent Crimes Unit. I also have Sergeant Stemper with me in the office.” “Mrs. Evans,” a male voice greeted. “I hate to be the bearer of bad news, Mrs. Evans. We have reason to believe that a body that was discovered in a well may be that of your—”

Veil of Seduction

43

“Husband? Ryan?” Anya interrupted and began to cry. “No, Mrs. Evans. I’m talking about your sister…Anise,” the detective said. “I truly apologize to have to inform you of this news in this manner, but we feel that immediate notification to family members may help with leads in the case and we’re in need of a positive ID on her belongings.” The line went silent for a few seconds. “You thought I was about to refer to your husband? Is something wrong with your husband, Ryan Evans?” “He left me. Abandoned me, just a few weeks ago, without warning. Actually, it looks like he had been planning it for months and I just never…” Anya started to ramble and caught herself. “Anyway, I thought…Never mind.” When the detective’s words finally registered, Anya lowered herself to the barstool at the kitchen island. “Anise? What is going on? You said body? What happened?” “Mrs. Evans, when did you last talk to your sister?” “Anise and I have not spoken since after my husb—” Anya corrected herself. “I mean, Ryan and I kicked her out of our home over a year ago.” “Mrs. Evans, I would like you to come down to the office for an interview process as standard procedure in any active case. There’s a lot more I would like to go over with you.”

44

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Five Anya sat motionless in her chair. Inside, her thoughts were restless, searching for answers. As if the state of her marriage and finances hadn’t given her enough to consume her thoughts, her mind was now in a free fall. It was like adding another rung or two to the ladder that ascended from grief and depression, the ladder she had been trying to scale since her parents’ deaths. With swollen, cried-out eyes, Anya took in her surroundings. Everything about the place was harsh. The white walls glared with unflattery, the plastic chairs uninviting, the scuffed linoleum floors lent to the unsightly decor, and the room sat at a frigid-cold temperature. She couldn’t help but to make the comparison. The precinct’s reception area was worse than that of a hospital waiting room. At least the hospital had the occasional magazine and wall art to admire, a trail of medicinal disinfectant to linger over. Here, no style, no charm, and no life existed. Everything was stark. How hard was it to spruce up the area, give it a little character, a plant here, a decorative dish there? This was the last place on earth she wanted to be. Without a doubt, the waiting triggered it. Anya’s unoccupied moment allowed her thoughts rampant and cyclical, eating at her core. She had wished to stay numb to everything, at least for the time being, but her mind didn’t afford her any leeway in deadening her full-fledged reality. With Anise now gone, she had no family, no identity. Her life was the epitome of emptiness. She gripped the arms of the chair in attempt to compose herself as it hit her. Her surroundings were a direct reflection of her life. “Mrs. Evans?” a receptionist greeted Anya “I will take you back now.” The receptionist led her through a maze of hallways, doors, and offices to the glass door entrance of the Violent Crimes unit. As they made their

Veil of Seduction

45

way to Detective Doyle’s office, Anya glanced into a room that projected Anise’s driver license on the overhead screen. She couldn’t help but notice the stares from the people in the room, as if she’d interrupted their discussion. “Have a seat.” The receptionist motioned to the chair that sat in front of the desk. “Detective Doyle will be in momentarily.” Merely seconds after the receptionist left the room, Detective Doyle stepped through the door. Anya stood and turned around to greet the detective. Their eyes met and the detective let out a gasp. With a bombshell look in her eye, the detective took in a deep breath, delving deeper into her examination of Anya. “I’m sorry. It didn’t dawn on me to mention that we are…or were…identical twins,” confessed Anya, realizing her resemblance to her sister was the cause for the commotion. Shaking her head and trying to regain her composure, the detective said, “I–I don’t know why any of us didn’t pick up on that by the birthdates…” “It’s easy to overlook. We were born in different years. She on December 31st and I on January 1st,” interrupted Anya. “Interesting. Please, take a seat,” said the detective as she took her seat and continued. “Thank you for coming down so quickly. We like to interview family members early in the case. Learning about the victim…I mean, Anise, from a close family member can sometimes help to uncover leads that the evidence couldn’t.” Detective Doyle folded her hands together on the desk and continued openly. “I apologize, Mrs. Evans. This type of meeting is never easy for me. I’m good at stating facts and evidence. I’m not good with the human aspect of it all. Forgive me if I seem straight to the point. I’ll share with you the basic facts that we have at this point and then I’ll have questions for you.” Anya nodded. The door to the office slowly opened, and a male voice spoke, “Sorry I’m late, I just got things wrapped up.” “Mrs. Evans, this is Sergeant Stemper. He was on the line when I phoned you earlier.” “Mrs. Evans,” greeted the sergeant.

46

Maya DeLeina

He took a chair from the corner of the office and placed it next to Detective Doyle as he handed her a manila folder. Turning back to Anya, the detective continued, “Sergeant Stemper is from our criminalist unit. He’s in charge of the evidence in your sister’s case.” Anya gazed at Sergeant Stemper, noting his handsome face. Although absent of any noticeable accent, he had a slight foreign quality to his features, aristocratic by sorts. Anya nodded in understanding as she inwardly evaluated the sergeant. “Mrs. Evans, please call me Alex.” He flashed a smile at Anya. “So, let’s start with what we know. The owner of the cattle ranch found Anise’s body in an old well as he was checking the fence lines. Shortly after the discovery, he found her belongings scattered near the well. Her purse was found not far from its contents.” The detective opened the manila folder that Alex had given her and placed evidence photos of the purse’s contents on the desk for Anya to examine. Anya recognized much of the contents as belonging to Anise. All of Anya’s early attempts at composure faded, and she started to cry. “Her body was in the well? She fell in? Why wasn’t the well covered or something?” Anya managed to get out her sentence in between her bouts of crying. “Mrs. Evans, Anise’s body was placed in the well and burned,” Alex explained. “Burned? Oh my god, Anise!” Anya sobbed heavily at the thought of her sister’s demise. “Do you know if your sister had any enemies? You know, jilted lovers, angry coworkers, someone she may have owed money to?” “No.” The detective flipped through papers in another manila folder. “You and Anise were the only surviving members of your family, is that correct?” “Yes. Our parents were killed in a crash. They were vacationing in Kauai. On their last day on the island, they decided to take a helicopter tour of the island…” Anya trailed off in a vacant stare. “My mother hated flying.” “I’m curious, how was the relationship between you and your sister in the past, since it was just the two of you?” probed Detective Doyle.

Veil of Seduction

47

“We always had a strained relationship. We were supposed to be so in sync with each other, but we were complete opposites. But after our parents died, we really made an effort.” Anya paused, feeling a faint smile develop. “Ryan was the dynamic that really changed everything. He had lost his parents, just like us, and understood our pain. Once he was in the picture, he made our interactions…better. It was easier to have her around. It made our communication stronger. Most importantly, he made Anise and I laugh again.” Detective Doyle and Alex exchanged a quick glance. “But, again, she was back to the same old Anise and expectant of our handouts. This was the longest stretch that I had gone without hearing from her. In fact, I had no way of making contact with her. I had no current phone number or address. The last I heard, she’d moved to New York. I had no idea she was still in Colorado.” “Do you have any other family to call on for support at this time? Anyone that you want to be here with you?” asked the detective. “No.” “Friends?” “Michelle. I called her right after you phoned. She’ll be staying with me this evening. She offered to come here with me, but I didn’t want her to close the shop. I’ll be okay.” “Mrs. Evans, are you sure? You’ve been through a lot.” Anya reached for her red jasper stone and clutched it. “I’m okay.” “The next set of questions, they will be more…intense.” “I’ll be fine.” Detective Doyle looked at Alex for reassurance before continuing with her line of questioning. “Do you have any reason to believe that your husband’s recent actions had anything to do with Anise?” “Absolutely not!” Anya barked, not realizing the intense part of questioning was going to involve Ryan. The detective showed no emotion as she made notes of the conversation. She flipped through printouts from an internet page. “Your husband, Ryan, is the owner and hedge fund manager of RPE Investment Advisors. Is that correct?” “Yes.”

48

Maya DeLeina

“And what does his firm do?” “Commodity futures, they specialize in trading energy products.” “And you?” “I’m a music teacher.” “Anise?” “Last job she had, she was a waitress at one of the restaurants at the resort.” Alex shot a curious look at the detective as she jotted down Anya’s responses. Detective Doyle continued, “Any recent financial issues that you know of?” “Well, what aspect are you talking? Personal or business finances?” “Whatever you know.” “Well, since Ryan left, of course there are financial issues! I’m broke. He’s left me with next to nothing, and bills that I cannot pay for are still coming in while he’s somewhere out there wining and dining the woman he left me for!” Anya stood and started to pace the office. “I don’t understand how this has anything to do with what happened to Anise. Why aren’t you looking into her finances to see if there is something to uncover there? Maybe she pissed off the wrong person. Took advantage of the wrong person, I don’t know…” “Mrs. Evans, that’s exactly what we did. Your sister had recently completed a living will and purchased a lavish residence up in Ambrose Heights. Do you know anything about this?” “Ambrose Heights? Yeah right! She couldn’t even make rent in a rundown apartment! That’s why Ryan and I had no choice but to take her in for awhile. I couldn’t let her live where she could afford.” Anya shook her head, looking at both the detective and the sergeant who sat still with somber gazes. “Ambrose Heights? How? With whom? That’s where we should start looking!” “Yes, we are still looking into it,” Detective Doyle said with a tinge of disappointment. “We hoped you could shed some light on the recent purchase.” “I have no idea! Why would I have any knowledge of this? Ambrose Heights? Are you sure about this?”

Veil of Seduction

49

“Yes,” said the detective as she motioned with her hand at someone peering through the glass in her door. The door opened, and an older gentleman in an expensive suit walked into the office. “Mrs. Evans, this is the executor of Anise’s will. Alex made contact with him after we collected Anise’s belonging as evidence. We found his firm’s card and appointment dates in her…” Alex’s phone went off and interrupted the detective in midsentence. He looked down at the phone. “I have to take this.” Alex excused himself as he scurried out of the room. Detective Doyle continued, “I am sorry, where were we? Yes, when Alex made contact with Mr. White, it was discovered he was trying to locate you and we informed him you would be in the office this afternoon.” Anya turned to the man in the suit who now sat next to her. “I’m Mr. White. Mr. Alan White.” He held his hand to her. “Mrs. Evans, I am truly sorry for your loss. My office helped Anise with her living will, and she named my firm as the executor. I’m responsible for the administration of your sister’s estate until final distribution of her assets is made to the beneficiary. Her estate includes a residence, bank accounts, and investments. Mrs. Evans, your sister named you as the sole beneficiary to her estate.” Mr. White opened his briefcase and handed Anya a copy of Anise’s will. “The will does contain funeral instructions and explicit instructions to do a consultation with you prior to any arrangement decisions.” “When? When did she do all of this? I don’t understand. It doesn’t sound like something she would do. It’s not something that would cross her mind. She had nothing!” “Your sister started working with our office…” Mr. White looked down at notes he had written down on a legal pad in search for the answer. “…just about a month ago, according to the file.” Mr. White reached back into his briefcase and retrieved stacks of paperwork. “And, was there anyone else with her, a friend or boyfriend maybe, advising her to do this or something?” Anya questioned. “Not that I recall.” Mr. White stopped shifting through the stack of legal documents now strewn across the table. “I apologize, Mrs. Evans, for not looking very prepared in such a delicate matter as this. The truth is that

50

Maya DeLeina

when I received the call from Sergeant Stemper, I had to research everything from your sister’s file. Now, I admit I never remember every detail of every client, but I normally have some recollection of a conversation or discussion we had, especially on a fairly new client like your sister. But I’m at a complete loss here. The office staff cannot place her as well. Rest assured, however, we have documentation that clearly expressed Anise’s wishes. And now that I have located you as the sole beneficiary, we can begin the administration of the estate.” Anya glanced at the detective. Her face was riddled with skepticism. It was clear in Anya’s mind that the detective had orchestrated the meeting with Anise’s executor to evaluate the situation. More specifically, to assess Anya’s reaction to the news, making notes on every emotion, every gesture, every fluctuation in her voice. “Anise had no mortgage on the property and no outstanding bills, so this process should go smoothly,” stated Alan. “Wait. What are you saying exactly?” Anya shot glances back and forth between the detective and Alan. “Are you saying I’m inheriting a property in Ambrose Heights free and clear?” “Well, here’s the process. I will be applying for a grant of probate to administer the estate. I will file all the necessary legal documents at the registrar of probate along with Anise’s will, death certificate, and a statement of all assets and liabilities. Barring any unforeseen setbacks from the courts, probate should be granted. So, to answer your question, yes. You will inherit the property in Ambrose Heights. Free and clear. Now, we would need to discuss capital gains tax liability as a result…” Alan continued his explanation, but it fell on deaf ears. Anya was frozen in shock, her mind in a stupor, her body unresponsive to her surroundings. She was about to inherit a piece of property in the most coveted neighborhood in the town of Manitou Springs. Anya’s eyes traveled to the illustrated map of the city that sat pinned to the detective’s wall. The pastel-colored map was detailed, clearly depicting points of interest and changes in elevation in the towns that sat along the mountain range. Her heart raced as her eyes traced the illustration, searching for it, hunting it out. There it was. Ambrose Heights. Mysterious.

Veil of Seduction

51

That is what the locals would say about the neighborhood, but even this didn’t fully amount to what Anya was feeling of about the property now. Ambrose Heights just became mystifying. The next hour was filled with further discussion and signing of legal documents with the attorney. After he left the office, the detective wrapped up the meeting with a few more lines of questioning. Anya tucked away the business cards she’d collected in her wallet and gathered the stacks of papers. She made her way out of the office and followed the detective’s escort down the hall and back through maze of offices and doors. “Anya, we’ll update you on the case progress and share what we can. In the meantime, if you think of anything that might have a bearing to Anise or the case, please contact me.” The detective handed her card to Anya. “And please, call me Madeline.” “Thank you,” Anya whispered. She turned and made her way slowly out of the glass doors. **** Alex emerged from a darkened corner of his hall, his fangs receded, tucking behind their protective membrane as he wiped his mouth in pure satisfaction. He swiftly made his way to Madeline and settled in next to her as she remained fixed on Anya, watching intently as she exited the building. “She has no clue about Anise and Ryan,” Alex said. “No, she absolutely doesn’t,” she responded. She turned to look at Alex and suddenly pulled him into her by the arm. “You’re a bit of a mess, Alex, clean it up!” Madeline angrily whispered in his ear as she casually pointed to the corner of her mouth to signal Alex. Alex angled his tongue to the crease of his mouth and licked up a drop of blood that had been carelessly overlooked. “I only erased the feed, nothing else. Alan will remember everything. I didn’t interrupt anything that was already fated. He just won’t remember anything between leaving your office and getting in his car,” Alex said in response to the Madeline’s scornful stare. “What? I couldn’t help it. I was craving something…spicy,” Alex admitted. “I hope you know that feeding from an attorney gives you heartburn.”

52

Maya DeLeina

“Oh, a little heartburn couldn’t kill a vampire. I think I’ll survive.” Madeline sighed and turned around to make her way down the hall. Alex followed by her side. “And what of the preliminary results on the other body found in the well, Ryan Evans, or one of ours?” “Ours,” Alex stated confidently. “Definitely not human. But, he was too far into the depletion process to make a definite ID.” She stopped in her tracks. “Depletion? My god!” She shook her head with the thought of the pain the depletion process would have on a vampire. “It’s been some time since we dealt with a case involving depletion.” Madeline began walking once again. “And you checked all the usual sources, Ryan has not been seen or heard from?” Alex reached for the office door. “No one has seen him for several weeks now. Basically checks out with his wife’s story.” Alex closed the door behind him and leaned against the door. “So I finally got to touch a piece of Anise’s remains.” “You got to touch her remains? Excellent,” Madeline said with a refined excitement. “Yeah, that was the phone call I got…why I had to excuse myself. The humans, they retrieved what they could of her body and got it into my lab. But it was enough for me to see things. Want to know what happened?” “I’m waiting,” Madeline responded as she settled into her chair. She folded her hands in her lap. “Well, I was right with my initial hunch. Ryan and Anise, they were going at it for awhile. But, it wasn’t just Anise. Ryan loved conquests.” Alex walked over and sat in the chair directly across the detective. “Now, I’m a little sketchy on this part, but they broke off their relationship abruptly. I’m not too sure why. Maybe Anise gave him an ultimatum and wanted Ryan to leave Anya and he wouldn’t. Maybe Ryan was afraid of Anise’s…tendencies. At least with Anya, she was refined. He could trust her, not worry about her smearing his name or reputation.” Alex leaned back in the chair. “Did I tell you the word was that Anise was a little on the wild side? Let’s say, monogamously challenged.”

Veil of Seduction

53

“Talk about the pot calling the kettle black,” she said in disgust. “But what was the attraction to Ryan that she would jeopardize her relationship with her own sister?” “Status and money would be my guess. Anyway, after the breakup, Anise was immediately in the arms of another man—a very different man. A vampire. Anise was turned, but he didn’t stop there…he claimed her. The son of a bitch mated her when they clearly had no mate connection!” “But surely this vampire would’ve explained the ritual, gone over the entire mating process and depletion with her before he claimed her…I mean, it was his life on the line as her maker.” A sense of confusion laced Detective Doyle’s tone. “Don’t forget, we are dealing with Anise here. She lives in the moment. She’ll say anything, do anything without any regard, without consequence. Look what she did to her own sister! Man, he must’ve done a real number on her—promises of gifts, money, and the whole nine yards. Who knows, maybe they both had the blackness in them.” “She had blackness?” “Yep. I felt it. There was no mistaking it.” “So, she doesn’t have a true mate connection with this vampire and doesn’t embrace the claim, but, she has a connection with Ryan. She retained him in her memory after she was turned and sought him out,” the detective said with calculation as if trying to piece together the picture. “And her maker was able to find her before the depletion was complete.” “Exactly. That was her maker in that well who burned with her. Except, he had already extinguished while she burned alive.” Alex got up from the chair and started pacing the room. “I just wish I could identify who her maker was. Whoever he was, he planned his attack on Anise methodically. Somehow, he learned to retain residual energy during the depletion process. He had already chosen the cattle ranch and the well as the site. He knew the exact distance and time it would take by flight that would sufficiently burn through this residual energy and allow the depletion to finally take him. I found black market Defender scattered all over the property. He must’ve known she had them and started dumping her belongings before they got to the well.” Alex sat at the corner of the desk and continued, “And talk about being systematic…his timing on all of this was impeccable. He dropped her in the

54

Maya DeLeina

well the precise moment he extinguished. His body fell on her in the well just so, pinning her in. She had hours before sunrise hit the well. She had no access to her Defender injections. And with none of the serum left in her system, she burned alive. He wanted her to have time to contemplate death, like he did. He wanted her end to be a horrific one.” “So we’ve established motive…revenge. But that still doesn’t answer the question on where Ryan Evans is. Do you sense her vampire mate took care of him? And what did Ryan exactly know about Anise? Do you think Anise revealed what she was?” asked the detective. Alex shook his head. “No. Her maker couldn’t have done anything to Ryan. He only had enough energy to carry out the plan for her and must’ve been patient, waiting for the perfect opportunity to take her. And as far as Ryan knowing about Anise being a vampire, I doubt he knew. I mean, I just don’t feel it. It was too early. We are moving into winter…short days, long nights. And if she had black market Defender on her, I can bet you she had a supply of Consumption as well to fully complete the masquerade. With all of this, she could pull off being human for quite awhile until she found the right time to reveal it to Ryan.” “Well, I must say great job, Alex. For not remembering much of your past, you’ve truly honed your vampiric skills.” Smiling, Alex stood and headed toward the door. “I’ll prepare the transgression report for filing.” Alex shook his head and continued. “Ambrose Heights…they’ll need to know the circumstances surrounding their new resident. Surely, they never anticipated this.” Madeline rose from her chair and walked around the desk. Leaning a hip on the corner of the desk, she folded her arms across her chest. “You know, Alex, I’ve embraced my vampiric skill as well.” “What do you mean?” Alex turned away from the door and faced Madeline. She motioned with her hand toward the chair. “Sit down for a moment. We’ll file the transgression report as our creed dictates…but with some alterations this time.” “Alterations? Why?” Alex took his seat. The detective scooted back on her desk “Could you tell anything different about Anya? “Not particularly, why?”

Veil of Seduction

55

“Her scent. She’s a perfect match to Steffan. It’s already emanating from her so strongly. That’s what startled me when I first met her. I’ve never felt a match as strong. There was no hiding my reaction, and Anya saw it.” The detective paused in reflection and chuckled. “Thank god Anya assumed it was because of her and Anise being identical twins. Alex, do you know what this means?” Alex moved to the edge of his seat, rolled his eyes, and shook his head. “It means Steffan will finally have a woman to occupy his time and he will lighten up on being such a control freak?” “Well, all right, yes. But, Steffan had to have touched something of hers for me to pick up on the mate-match scent. This means, the link between them must be…” “Ryan!” Alex’s eyes lit up with the realization. She nodded with an enthusiastic smile on her face. “But what did he do to Ryan? You know he would never harm a human, and he never turned one either.” Madeline rose from the desk and walked around the office. “But, what if he did turn Ryan and he’s up there in Ambrose Heights, in the castle, adapting as a newborn? It could explain why he mysteriously disappeared. Can you imagine the damage that will cause the family?” Alex frowned as he deliberated the situation. “Shit! Of all the women out there, Steffan is a perfect match to Ryan’s wife? And she is going to be living just a few homes away from him? Talk about dangling the carrot in front of the rabbit!” Alex said in angst. Alex paused. He shook his head in disbelief and continued, “When Steffan and Anya meet, they will feel the instant attraction. Their connection to each other, on every level, will surface. Steffan has waited so long to find his mate, and he can’t even pursue her. Anya is already spoken for, bound to Ryan. I wonder what he knows so far.” The detective placed her hands on Alex’s shoulder and leaned into his ear. “And what if he already suspects the object of his mate connection is the wife of his recently turned vampire?” “All the better we talk with him now, confirm his suspicions, stop him from inadvertently breaking his own laws. He’ll need time to prepare for Anya’s presence in Ambrose Heights. I mean, he’s going to smell her in the tunnels. It’ll seep right into his home. I hope he doesn’t go mad.”

56

Maya DeLeina

“I have a much different take on what we should do here. I say this could be our chance to knock Steffan down from his reign over us,” Madeline said decisively. Her words were unexpected. Alex stood up. “What? Why? Steffan has made a nice life for all of us. What are you saying?” “Think about it. We’re governed by Steffan, but who governs our leader?” Riddled with confusion, Alex responded, “Well, no one, but he’s never proven to be manipulative or to harbor deceit to even question this! I mean, his eyes were never black! You know I don’t recall much of my life, but I remember how it was before Steffan and his family moved here. It was unruly, and it was every man for himself. In fact, I don’t ever remember coming out during daylight. I was a slave to the darkness. He knew we were endangering our very existence by living this way. He could’ve easily looked somewhere else to take up residence, but instead he chose to stay, to help us build a family unit. Now, we abide by rules, have structure, and protect our identity all while living together in this town. We’re one of the largest lairs in existence. I don’t know about you, but I certainly like some of the normalcy in our life now. It makes me feel a…little human again. Because of all he’s done, he was chosen as the leader.” Anger washed over Madeline’s face. “But look at Steffan! He built Ambrose Heights up there just to throw it in our faces. He’s like a king in his castle looking down at us, his subjects. Is that the mentality we want leading us? Steffan is always coming up with new rules that we have to abide by, constantly checking up on us. Who’s checking up on him? And don’t get me started on the inventory logs we have to keep for Defender and Consumption.” “Be realistic. Steffan’s trying to make sure the serums don’t go straight on the black market! Look, he’s allowed us to go undetected, even with so many of us taking up permanent residence in this town. Yes, he is controlling, but he wants to assure that we all follow the rules, that no one spoils what we managed to build for ourselves here. I don’t really see your argument. Are you sure this has nothing of a personal nature behind it?” Madeline’s tone softened, her statement wielding an amount of reservation. “Of course there is some of our personal history behind it. You

Veil of Seduction

57

didn’t know him like I knew him. There were things he said, made mention of, privately, in passing…in his sleep. Alex, I can’t explain it, but I am not so trusting of Steffan anymore. It’s been something nagging in my gut for some time now. You realize none of our creeds or doctrines ever addresses the manner in which the leader is to be evaluated or scrutinized?” Alex shook his head. “Honestly, it was never been an issue for me. Besides, you have telling powers. Can’t you stir him, get truth out of him?” “Don’t you think I tried? Steffan is too strong. My powers don’t work on Steffan. I’m being honest here, something is not sitting right with me.” “Why haven’t you said something to me about this earlier?” “I don’t know…I guess it’s because I wanted to be absolutely sure about everything I was feeling.” “Did you address any of this formally, with the council?” “And how was I going to do that? Steffan is the council.” Alex nodded. “Alex, help me edit the report on this case. This is the only way we can test our leader, make sure he isn’t harboring deceit…assure that this family remains safe and that we’re being lead by a virtuous leader. I can’t openly question Steffan, nor am I even in a position to suggest a change to our creeds that would put him on review. He’s too embedded in all of the processes. Steffan will find a way around it.” “Well, you do have a point. So what exactly were you thinking about altering in the transgression report?” Alex inquired. “Ryan and Anya didn’t live in our town, so Steffan has no background on them. He will rely on us for some basic information. We’ll report that Ryan and Anise were engaged, that she was killed in a fiery car accident. We won’t even mention she was one of us. And most importantly, we must leave Anya completely out of this.” Alex fired back. “But Anya is his mate!” “Exactly. Since he probably touched something’s of Ryan’s to gain his mate connection to Anya, according to our laws, he will need to fully understand Ryan’s relationship to her before he starts any type of quest.” “But what if Ryan had blackness in his turning? He may not even recall her.”

58

Maya DeLeina

“Then this will be our first true test on Steffan to know if he is upholding the creed and abiding by his own laws. Will he come to us for information, or will he simply ignore everything and mate abduct instead?” “Let me get this straight, he comes to us for information but you’re not even giving the man a fair chance at anything with this report? Steffan is relying on us. This sounds like entrapment.” “No. Don’t you see? We won’t claim to know anything about Anya. Background info on her family, yes, but that’s it. If Ryan can’t recall her, and he doesn’t get any straightforward information on her in the transgression report, Steffan has to fully investigate everything on his own. Look, if he is as virtuous as he appears to everyone, then there’s no harm, no foul. But, if my gut is correct, this decision to secretly test our leader could be our legacy. It could change our ranking among our kind.” “I don’t know. I’m not sure I’m comfortable with what you’re asking to do here.” “We need this, Alex. Remember, Steffan has absolute power. He sets the creeds, doctrines and laws…hell he even judges the cases of improprieties and determines punishment. He sits at the head of the council! No one questions him…no one tests his true self.” Alex ran his fingers through his hair and let out a sigh. “Alex, if it turns out we need a new leader, I can’t think of anyone more fitting for the title than you. And as our leader, you could even persuade Eilian to work on a serum to help you recall all your vampiric memories.” The thought of being figure of status did sound appealing to Alex, not to mention, a cure to help him remember his past which he desperately longed for. Alex buried his hands deep into his pants pockets. He resigned all efforts to argue with Madeline. And in a way, she was right. Who was watching over their leader?

Veil of Seduction

59

Chapter Six Steffan sat across from Eilian at the lab table. A soothing hum emanated from the lighting source, a therapeutic quality in its resonance. Laptops, folders, notebooks, and glass slides containing red and black blood smears covered the cold cement slab. The glass slides lay in a perfect row next to individual labels. Eilian, Catrin, Griffin, Rhys, Brynne, Aeron, Gwynn, Haydn. Steffan read off the names to himself, noticing his sample was clearly out of the mix. “Don’t worry,” scoffed Eilian from behind the microscope, breaking the long silence that suspended in the room. “You won’t be in this batch of testing. This is a Defender testing phase for the families, not Consumption. And, since you refuse to take Defender…” Steffan ignored his jab and began to slowly twirl himself on the rotating seat of the stool in a childlike manner. With his eyes fixed at the eyepiece and his hands making slight adjustments to the controls, Eilian continued, “So, they still remain black?” Steffan responded with a sigh of relief. “They finally are receding. By this evening, his eyes should return to human form.” Steffan got up from his seat, walked behind Eilian, and peered over his shoulder at his meticulous notes on the testing results. Eilian looked up from the eyepiece and turned around on the stool. Long strands of hair fell to his green eyes as he peered up at Steffan. “I know this doesn’t interest you and you would rather be upstairs with your music. So, what is it?” “He remembered his name. His name is Ryan—Ryan Evans. Looks like we don’t have to name him after all.”

60

Maya DeLeina

“Damn! I was so looking forward to a fine Welsh name to bestow on him to fit his stature and transformation.” Steffan chuckled. “I thought we agreed to break from the Welsh name tradition. I mean, you and I are from South Wales, but Rhys is from Greece, Griffin is from Russia and everyone else is from here…America.” “Tradition, I guess…from Idris,” Eilian said as he shrugged. Steffan nodded in acknowledgment and rubbed his hand around his bracelet. How he missed Idris, his maker and his friend. Despite their banter, Steffan remained plagued with anxiety. As the leader of the family, Steffan always masked any apprehension or doubt in front of the family members, but Eilian was different. Eilian was his confidant. They had been turned in unison by Idris and had remained side by side ever since. When Idris passed, they sought to form their own family, seeking a society that would uphold civility and pursue scientific discoveries that would advance their kind. Their connection allowed Eilian to pacify Steffan’s racing thoughts and Steffan to ignite Eilian’s intellectual capabilities. “All right, so he remembered his name. His eyes turned black. So maybe his blackness is egotistically based,” Eilian announced With his hands cupped behind his back, Steffan walked slowly down the row of bookshelves lining one side of the room “I think he has a slight ability to shield.” Steffan stopped pacing the room and rubbed his chin. “This is a very dangerous ability for someone with blackness.” “Is that what worries you?” “Somewhat.” “Shall we rethink his purpose then?” Eilian voiced more of a solution rather than a question. “Have him train with Rhys so we can monitor the level of his ability?” Steffan leaned back on the bookshelf. “No. We’ll stick to the original plan of why he was supposed to be here in the first place. He’ll just be like one of us now all because of that damn accident.” “I still can’t believe that happened on his way up here. I mean, we were just talking about him earlier that day and making all of the necessary arrangements for his arrival and then…bam. He drives his car right off the side of the mountain.”

Veil of Seduction

61

“This is what fate has dealt us.” Steffan sighed. “Hmm…” Eilian sounded as he drifted in thought. “What?” “I was just thinking…can you imagine what you must’ve looked like that night, dressed all in black and with that hooded coat of yours, nonetheless? You probably scared the bejesus out of him,” Eilian explained. Steffan smiled. “Yes, I believe I gave him quite a stir, especially when we took flight.” Eilian chuckled. “I can’t believe I missed going out and getting in some air time with you and the guys. Catrin and I were…umm…busy.” “Yes, we know. You would’ve loved to have seen Rhys teaching Brynne—it was quite amusing. But look, winter hasn’t even officially begun…there will be many more storms for you to join us in. I’m sure of it,” Steffan remarked playfully. Then his demeanor turned serious. “About Ryan, he recalls pieces of his human life that centered on him— his car, the house, his name, and most importantly, his career. His lust for material possession will actually serve our family well. He’ll be loyal and devoted as long as he’s rewarded with the possession he desires.” Steffan moved to take a seat on the stool next to Eilian at the lab table. “But with this retention, he’ll be eager to get back out there again. Eilian, he was high profile in his community and we’re too close to the action. I don’t feel like moving the family just for him. We’re not even ready with another suitable location. We’ll have to craft a story for his absence, make sure to plug any possible holes. We cannot put the family in danger of being discovered.” “I know. I’ve thought about this, too. I’m figuring anxiety—a nervous breakdown with a little rehab stint. We can give the Tucson family a major discount on their next supply order in exchange for a patient entry record for Ryan.” Eilian entered comments in the Tucson family’s record on the laptop. “And I’ll make the necessary arrangements for the mass enthrall once we identify everyone who knew Ryan. Don’t worry. It’ll be taken care of.” Steffan took in a long, deep breath. “All right, with our investments safely in the hands of family, you and I can concentrate on the serums.”

62

Maya DeLeina

“Sounds like a great plan. But, I can still feel you harboring something. What is the real issue here?” Eilian asked. Steffan latched on to the red jasper that sat in his pocket, allowing little bits of lightning to penetrate him. “It just angers me. He has no recollection of their love. He speaks of no woman…anyone, as a matter of fact. I enter his mind and find emptiness. Absolutely nothing! Not an image of a woman, a scent of a woman, or a voice of a woman. I never turned anyone before, and the one time I follow my heart, I’m dealt a bad case of blackness.” Steffan released the jasper and balled his fist in his hair at his forehead as he leaned his elbow on the table. “I made the choice of this life for him. I based my decision on what he said that night, what came out of him effortlessly, above the pain and anguish he was in. I mean, if there’s nothing there, what in the hell was he referring to as needing her?” Steffan released his hair from his fist and grabbed the edge of the table with two hands. “When I first saw the black, I should’ve stopped it, but I didn’t.” “Look, you did what you thought was right. You can’t compare what happened when Rhys turned Dominic.” Steffan pounded his fist on the table. “How can I not make the comparison to what happened with Dominic?” Eilian jumped back in response. Steffan combed his hand through his hair. “What have I done? Money, power, greed—this is what Ryan was all about. We knew it. I knew it. It was exactly what we wanted for our human feeder who controlled our investments. He was supposed to still be mortal, damnit! But I turned him, knowing full well that deep down he could’ve turned black! Eilian, I ignored my better judgment all because that damn second of hope he gave me. And he’s one of us now. An eternity’s worth of material possessions and sexual conquests, that can’t be enough to satisfy him. He’ll eventually want a mate, and then what? I mean, we can teach him about the mate claiming, but the blackness in him could cloud his judgment. He could even view the claim as a simple possession in itself. The blackness can overpower him. It could be embedded from the transference of his human existence so deep that it’s purely innate, and all of our teachings could just fall on deaf ears. Worse yet, he could select a mate for the wrong reasons and face depletion and suffer

Veil of Seduction

63

an agonizing death from a blood-claim rejection. How could I live with myself if that happened?” He paused and frowned. “And if he can’t find a mate, he could go completely mad. I am responsible for him. I am responsible for everything that happens to him.” “You are responsible to a point, Steffan. Don’t do this to yourself. And who knows, he could surpass all of it, understand and embrace the theory of the claim that we teach him, and come out of this all right,” added Eilian. “I don’t know. I just fear it’s going to be another Dominic,” Steffan explained. He bit down on his pinky, deep in thought. “Look at it this way, Steffan, you haven’t found your mate and you haven’t gone mad. At least…I think you haven’t gone mad.” “Number one, I don’t have the blackness inherent in me. And number two, I have other interests and endeavors to occupy my time. If I had a mate, how would I have created Ambrose Heights, oversee our lair, or come up with the possibilities of Defender or Consumption? ” Steffan headed toward the metal door, and Eilian followed closely behind. The door had no handles. No locks. Steffan balled his hand and tapped the silver disk embedded in the wall with the side of his fist. The metal door rotated on its center hinge, allowing Steffan and Eilian to freely pass through. They walked side by side through a long corridor system that had been carved out of the solid earth. A few dim overhead lights and wall sconces washed down the meandering path that lead to a freight elevator. “You know, you may have been the one behind the theory of our supplements, but I am the scientist who had to develop the synthetic counters for the serums all the while having my mate. Are you saying I didn’t bond long enough with Catrin during our claim ritual?” Eilian’s tone was sharp and stern. “Or maybe, you think my interest in my mate is overshadowed by my love for science!” Steffan stopped dead in his tracks and turned around. “What is it, Steffan?” Eilian asked. Steffan remained still, fixed on the long tunnel behind him. “You forgot something back at the lab or something?” “No. I…I thought I saw something,” Steffan explained. “Like?”

64

Maya DeLeina

“I don’t know. Something white caught the corner of my eye.” Steffan’s voice was full of confusion. “Well, there’s nothing there,” Eilian said as he evaluated the space. Steffan sighed, turned around, and continued down the corridor. He turned around for one brief second to do a last assessment of the area. Nothing was there. By all accounts, he and Eilian were alone in the tunnel passage. Steffan raised the cage that surrounded the elevator car. He picked up a mechanism attached to a long silver coil and pushed the red button that sent the car upward at a slow pace. “Eilian, about your earlier ranting, relax. All I meant is what I know about myself. I wouldn’t have my mind on anything else but her. That’s all.” As they ascended in the elevator car, Steffan sighed. “By the way, I will have to tell Ryan today that the house will not be his.” “Oh yeah, that’ll go over really great.” “I’m going to let him pick the spot he wants to build a new home on and will let him design it how he wants. That should appease him, and I won’t have to worry about him getting into it with the owner who inherited the property. I’ll call Richard later this evening.” “Yummy. Richard always had a good taste.” Eilian licked his lips. “Indeed. But he’s also growing old. On our next feed with him, remind me to add something extra to his enthrallment. I believe his daughter is mulling over the prospect of taking over his development business. I never had the pleasure of tasting her, but I’m sure it’s equally as exquisite.” The freight elevator stopped. Steffan lifted the cage, and he and Eilian stepped out. Steffan pushed a button on the wall, powering down the grid that supplied the electricity to the underground passages. Slowly, mechanisms embedded in the house began to move with precision. A pocket door slid out of the wall and covered the opening. The power grid recessed into the wall, and another apparatus slid through the wood paneling and covered the power system. The china cabinet ascended from out of the wood flooring and settled into the center of the wall that masked the underground passage entrance.

Veil of Seduction

65

With the single push of a button, the room was carefully returned to its formal dining room setting. Eilian turned around to enter the home’s three-story foyer. Drops of black blood covered the marble floor. Bloodied fingerprints smeared across the entrance door, the doorknob, walls, and the roman shade that sealed off the window. “Steffan, looks like you have something roaming in your house— something that tried to get out.” Steffan came up behind Eilian to assess the damage his recovering patient had left behind. “I gave him his first injection of Defender before sunrise.” He looked up at the grand staircase and the catwalk that extended through the length of the foyer. No blood. No damage. He scanned the remaining areas of the foyer. “Well, he is not back upstairs where he should be.” Steffan sighed and pointed to the bloodsmeared wall that led to his great room. The great room’s floor-to-ceiling windows that flanked the entire length of the house were darkened with blackout Roman shades. The ceiling soared three stories high. In the middle of the room, a natural rock formation rose from the wooden floor. There, on the rock, sat a naked man with his hands folded in his lap. A black robe lay next to him on the rock. “Ryan, you need your rest. It’s only 11:00 a.m. Why are you up?” Steffan said slowly as if talking to a child. “I got hungry. I think I drank too much of the supply you gave me.” Ryan was shaking. He hugged his legs as he pulled his knees into his chest. “Why do you say that? What are you feeling?” Steffan probed. “I feel terrible. My body hurts, and I feel as if I am going to faint.” “And why then are you naked?” Eilian reached for the robe as he spoke and handed it to Ryan, motioning him to put it back on. Ryan rubbed his arm with one hand. “My skin…I felt so hot, so I took off my robe and sat on the cold rock.” “And you feel better now?” Steffan asked. “A little.” “You tried to open the door and window, didn’t you?” Steffan continued.

66

Maya DeLeina

“Yes,” he admitted with a look of defeat. “I was curious. The house was so dark that I assumed it was—” Steffan interrupted. “Never assume anything. The shades are on a timer that black out the house and protect you. They will rise once it is safe.” “Why didn’t I burn then? You said that we burn in the sunlight.” Ryan stood up, exposing himself to Eilian and Steffan as he slipped his robe back over his shoulders. Ryan’s body was chiseled and well defined, but next to Steffan, he was still slight in his stature. Eilian and Steffan chuckled lightly like school boys at the sight of Ryan’s naked body. “I just started you on Defender,” Steffan managed to get out as he smiled, trying desperately to hold back his laughter. “What? Oh, very funny. I was a frightened by what happened, all right? And the rock was cold!” Ryan barked. He looked down at his endowment, which seemed to have shrunk from its normal state. “It is glorious under normal circumstances, I assure you.” Eilian and Steffan burst into uncontrollable laughter at Ryan’s candid remark. “Hmm, drahaus,” whispered Eilian to Steffan in a very heavy accent. “Whatever. What? Are you guys like…hung? Is that it?” Ryan said as he watched the two men exchange comments in their native language. Eilian and Steffan looked at each other in sheer amazement at what Ryan just asked. “I assure you, I am not about to pull it out and have some perverted measuring contest in my living room,” Steffan scoffed as he headed to a corner of the room. “Ryan, Steffan can’t pull it out right now for you to see his glorious beast because it would knock you right off that rock there!” Steffan retrieved his violin from its case and steadied his chin on the instrument. “You, knock it off,” he said calmly as he pointed his bow in Eilian’s direction. “I’m just asking. I get it, you’re foreigners. So who knows what your countrymen are like. For me, I’m above average by my family standards,” Ryan said as he tied his robe tight around his waist. “Where are you guys from anyway?”

Veil of Seduction

67

“Eilian and I are from South Wales,” Steffan said plainly as he started to perform one of his original compositions. The song was an unhurried blend of complementary notes in the key of E minor. The melody was haunting and mesmerizing. With his eyes still locked on Steffan, Ryan climbed down from the rock and walked over to the seating area where Eilian was situated. “And who is Ambrose?” Ryan asked as he tugged tighter on the loops of his robe tie. “It’s not a person,” Eilian stated. “When Steffan started the development, he put a little of his humor in the name. Ambrose means ‘immortal’ in Greek mythology.” “Cool. And your names, they’re not usual either. Do they have meaning as well?” “Vampires sometimes do not retain much of their human life after their turning.” Eilian glanced at Steffan. With caution-filled eyes, Steffan silently glanced back at Eilian as he continued playing his violin. Ryan’s state was fragile as he was in the infancy stage. He didn’t need to know everything about his inherent blackness right at this moment. “It’s really different for each person. For Steffan and me, we couldn’t recall our names. So our maker, Idris, gave us names to match our destiny. He could sense what the future held for someone.” Steffan chimed in as he took a momentary break from his music. “Actually, Idris followed in his mother’s footsteps. She gave all of the children in their family Welsh names. Idris’s father was Greek and couldn’t pronounce most of the names. When Eilian and I started this family, we took the tradition of Idris’s mother, to bestow family members with Welsh names and his father’s Greek heritage to designate our community in which we live. It’s all to pay tribute to Idris.” “I was named Eilian. Eilian derives from the word eilio, meaning second chance. This was also the name of a saint who is said to have performed miraculous cures. Steffan means the chosen, the crowned king. Interesting, isn’t it?” “Very interesting. I guess I was lucky and remembered my name, so I’ll stick with good old’ Ryan. I was told that my name means king as well, go figure.”

68

Maya DeLeina

Eilian and Steffan looked at each other for a brief moment, evaluating each other’s unspoken thoughts. Steffan returned to his music, this time, playing an upbeat concerto. Ryan rubbed his skin through the robe. “So, he said that he started me on that Defender thing earlier. What is that?” “Defender is the marketed name for sds360,” Eilian quickly responded. “Spectrum Defense System. You are on the 360-minute, six-hour serum. We are still trying to figure out the chemical balances needed in the serum to extend the coverage. You feel light-headed and tired right now because your body’s energy has been expended. It was trying to coat you with a protective barrier when it sensed you were near a natural light source. You will need several injections before you first enter sunlight. Your body needs time to recognize the compounds. They need time to safely merge and train your blood cells without expelling all of your strength.” “Whoa, how does this work?” “When we are turned, our human blood mixes with that of our vampire maker. Agglutination occurs and—” explained Eilian. “Agglutination?” Ryan interrupted. Eilian used his hands to help with the description. “The mixing of the two different blood types, human and vampiric, causes clumping of the blood in the human body. Once this happens, the blood stream cannot deliver oxygen to the tissues and the human body dies. This is when the vampiric blood takes over, fully regenerating the shell that remains. But not all of the human cells are ever destroyed. With each turning, the ancient vampire blood properties are entwined with what remains of a human. The Defender finds the human-based properties left in the blood stream, attaches to their cells, and replaces compounds that were destroyed in the turning.” “No shit!” Ryan shook his head in disbelief. “What exactly does Defender contain for it to work?” Eilian was prepared with his long, drawn out scientific explanation, but this was Ryan he was speaking to. A simple statement poured from Eilian’s lips, “Basically, Defender is made up of the chemical properties of melanin. It’s like this. When a human gets sunburned, it’s because they were exposed to excessive light and the body wasn’t able to produce enough melanin, a film of pigment, to protect the skin. Now, when we’re exposed to light, we simply burn, because vampire cells don’t produce melanin.”

Veil of Seduction

69

“And this was only created recently? Why didn’t this come out earlier?” Steffan jumped into the conversation. “It couldn’t. Ancient vampire blood was simply that…ancient. Little or no human properties ever existed, so the Defender compounds didn’t have any host cells to latch onto. It’s only due to time and the continual mix of human and vampire blood from turnings and human-vampire mate claims that the ancient vampire bloodline is not in its purest form.” “It’s the same concept for why Consumption works,” Eilian added. “Consumption? What is that?” “Consumption is the marketed name for c360. It’s a pill that allows us to eat and drink for a six-hour period. It restores taste buds, alters the palate to savor flavors other than blood, and works to digest the intake within the body. My Catrin loves this discovery.” Ryan paced around the room. “So with Defender and Consumption, I can re-enter the human population without being detected as a vampire?” “Yes,” Eilian answered. “As we have all done for some time now. The town of Manitou is crawling with vampires. You’re a part of our immediate family now, but we’re just one of the families that make up the entire lair here. You’ll see, there’s a family that runs the bed and breakfast, another owns a restaurant and other families are embedded in various sectors in the community—law enforcement, government records office, media, morgue and in hospital administration.” “Vaughn, he’s out in the sunlight, is he one too, but just on Defender?” Eilian responded, “Vaughn is a human feeder. We feed on him for blood sustenance. We enthrall him to erase any memory of our feeding, but during the process, we instill a deep sense of loyalty and allegiance to our family to protect us, without fully knowing who or what we are.” Steffan slowly walked toward Ryan. He raised one eyebrow and didn’t blink, mimicking the look of an enthrall trance. Melodically, Steffan spoke, “Vaughn never told you about us being vampires because he doesn’t exactly know. His mind only knows to protect us from outsiders. The guards, maintenance crew, builders, mailman, attorney…they are all our feeders and retain their human existence.” “You know, I’ve heard stories about this town being home to witches, warlocks, wizards, and vampires. I never believed in that stuff! So there is

70

Maya DeLeina

truth in vampires. Am I to believe there are witches, warlocks, and wizards as well?” asked Ryan. “So we hear. We don’t cross paths with other beings out there. We pretty much stick to our own kind,” Steffan explained. “And the entire family uses Defender?” Eilian sighed, his gaze following Steffan as he made his way to his favorite Tibetan antique chair. “Everyone apart from Steffan. Now, he uses Consumption religiously, but we found the use of Defender may diminish abilities for some vampires. I just can’t figure out what the trigger is…why some have no effect and others do. For Steffan, he wants assurance that he retains all of his abilities at full strength to help him search for his mate.” “A mate? Good god, man, you’re holding out on this stuff for sex? How long has it been, Steffan?” Ryan laughed. Steffan balked, sitting straight up in his chair. “Hey! I have and continue to bed many, many women. Human females are incredibly susceptible to a male vampire. They’re enraptured with everything about us. They already come to us primed, in a precarious and vulnerable sexual state.” Steffan shook his head as he gathered his hair, locking it tight at the base with a rubber band. “In fact, sometimes, it’s too damn easy. What Eilian is talking about here is something completely different…a mate. A mate is not just sex. It’s the truest form of compatibility between two people. I have yet to find my mate match, be it vampire or human.” “How would you know who’s your mate?” “Eilian, I’ll let you take this one for our friend here. I don’t think I have the strength,” said Steffan as he slumped in his chair. “Compatibility between two vampires is distinguished by scent. Each vampire has a certain unique scent embedded in their blood when they’re turned. The scent mixtures between two vampires can tell them if they have the ability to enhance one another, share in the same interests, and have similar intellect, humor, and moral qualities. And, most importantly, if have the same sexual appetite to satisfy each other. The mating ritual is called the claim. For two vampires who choose each other as mates, they each bond by consuming each other’s blood. The claim allows them to be connected through thought and other sensory mechanisms, for eternity.” Eilian adjusted in his seat in preparation for his next explanation.

Veil of Seduction

71

“Now, compatibility between a vampire and a human is much harder to reveal. It’s distinguished by touch and scent. At birth, blood components combine to produce an energy pattern that is unique to each human that embeds in their tissue. A vampire can pick up on the mating compatibility once the two tissue properties come together.” Eilian got up and demonstrated by grabbing an empty bottle of synthetic blood Ryan had left on the counter. “The sensation a vampire receives in a positive tissue match from an inanimate object is different for each connection. Some have reported feeling electric currents shoot through them, others go numb, and others have reported uncontrollable spasms. The mixing of the vampire and human tissue can reveal the basics about the connection strength—humor, intellect, morals, attraction, sexual passion, and other mutual qualities and bonds. Once a positive connection has been made, the human tissue releases a scent that’s meant to serve as a tracking mechanism for the vampire to find his human mate.” Eilian placed the bottle back on the table as he continued. “Now, the hard part is that compatibility is only distinguishable through touch and only if the object was handled by a human within the last twenty-four hours.” Ryan looked a bit confused. “I don’t get it.” “Tissue properties that humans imprint on objects dissolve after twentyfour hours. This is why finding a truly compatible human mate is so hard.” Ryan clarified his confusion, “No. I meant I don’t get why a vampire doesn’t just touch a human to see what kind of response their body has.” “You could do that, but then things like physical appearance and sexual attraction may give you a false positive reaction. Touching an inanimate object and receiving a reaction without seeing the person, that’s the only true compatibility test.” “How does a human become a vampire then?” Steffan continued on for Eilian. “The ritual is completed in three phases. It’s all about the blood exchange and infusion—completely different than just a simple turning.” Steffan took a deep breath in and planted his feet firmly on the ground. He leaned his body forward, resting his elbows on his knees as he spoke to Ryan. “The first phase is completed when the vampire samples the human blood flowing through the jugular vein, similar to that of feeding, but

72

Maya DeLeina

without the enthrallment. In the second phase, the vampire drinks from the femoral artery, just inside of the upper inner thigh.” Steffan reached down and pointed to an area near his groin. Ryan smiled at the image as Steffan resumed. “The ritual is completed when the vampire drains the human of most of their blood, right before the point of death. The human then feeds on the blood of their maker. If the mating selection was truly compatible and not tainted, the claim allows them to be connected through thought and other sensory mechanisms.” “What do you mean tainted?” “Feeding through the jugular and femoral artery of a human is…” Steffan closed his eyes and shook his head. “The most erotic experience for a vampire. It exceeds the sensation of any sexual gratification.” “And that is exactly why this is a problem for many. It feels too damn good,” Eilian said. “Exactly,” sighed Steffan. “If the vampire doesn’t acquire the necessary connection by touch and scent and performs the ritual based on their need for gratification only, the claim can be tainted. In most cases, even though the blood was infused together, the mental bond is not created. In rare cases, the human and vampire blood goes through a recognition-rejection phenomenon and they each die a slow and painful death.” Ryan’s confused look washed over him again. “It’s like a human getting a blood transfusion from a sheep. They don’t mix. The human dies…not even the power of the vampiric blood can override it. Again, that’s in the worst cases. It’s rare, but it has been known to happen,” Eilian explained. “So, if you make a mistake, in most cases, your bond with your mate is not strong and you sort of go through, like a divorce or something?” Ryan asked. Steffan rose from the chair and paced the room. “Not exactly. In either case, whether it’s choosing a human or vampire mate, the claim ritual is still meant to bond mates. The claim is sacred. It connects the two physically and mentally for eternity. If mates are separated from each other against their will, both mates will continue to exist but will slowly deteriorate from the separation until they are reunited. If one mate is extinguished, the remaining mate has a century to locate another mate match or will expire themselves.”

Veil of Seduction

73

“An entire century? I don’t think I would have a problem finding another woman. I wouldn’t need an entire century to find her!” Ryan boasted in confidence. “Have you not listened to what we said? We’re not talking about sexual conquest here. That’s not the issue. You can get that whenever you want it. And like I said, for a vampire, it’s very easy to have any woman you want.” Steffan leaned against the wall, his obvious failure to find a mate came through his words. “The mating compatibility is so rare, very hard to uncover. That’s why the process allows for one century if something happens that was beyond the control of the mates. You must not confuse the act of sex with that of the act of the claim. The families that make up Ambrose Heights, our family, they’re truly lucky.” Steffan cleared his throat. “Now, remember, if there is a tainted claim because the ritual was only done for sexual gratification, the mates will not form a mental bond. Once the turned mate leaves their maker, the process of depleting begins and will result in death for the maker. It’s a punishment of sorts.” “You know what? I think I’ll just choose sex and not worry about this whole mating selection process. This is too damn complicated,” Ryan concluded. “If that can sustain you, that would be a wise choice,” Steffan remarked. “What of the families here? They’re all mated, except for you, Steffan? “Eilian and Catrin, Aeron and Gwynn, claimed each other as vampires. Rhys claimed Brynne, a human. Griffin, he claimed another vampire, but she extinguished, and he is on his last decade to find another suitable mate. Haydn is not mated, but he is not actively searching either. Let’s just say, he is enjoying his existence to the fullest right now,” Steffan explained of the other couples that made up the family at Ambrose Heights. Ryan took a deep breath in and shrugged. “I don’t know. This is all overwhelming. I can eat, go in the sunlight, but I have to be careful with my sexual encounters. I’m going back to bed.” “Yes. You need your rest,” Eilian and Steffan said in unison. Ryan climbed their staircase and headed down one side of the catwalk to his room. As they watched Ryan make his way down the catwalk, Eilian asked, “Are you sure he retained any intelligence during the turning?”

74

Maya DeLeina

“Give him time. He’s trying to learn, but if it doesn’t affect him directly at this moment, his attention span is very minimal. It’s like trying to teach a seven-year-old about the laws of physics,” Steffan blurted in realization. “Shit, I didn’t tell him about the house yet.” “Speaking of the house, let’s see what the progress is, shall we?” Eilian ran back to the foyer. Outside, daylight still burned. The blackout Roman shades safely shielded the sun’s harmful rays from seeping into Steffan’s home until the timer would send them open. Like Eilian, Steffan was curious if the new owner of 6417 Ambrose Heights Court had made his or her appearance. Eilian punched in his override code for that particular window, and the Roman shade sailed up the length of the window. Steffan stepped back into the dark recessed corner of the room as Eilian stood in the full sunlight and peered through the window. “I see the moving van,” Eilian reported. “I see Fat Eddie eating something in the cab of the van and talking on the cell phone. I don’t know if this is possible, but it looks like Fat Eddie got, well, fatter. It looks like they’re wrapping up. The plastic floor covering is being pulled out of the entry and being placed back in the van.” The house was situated first on the street and quite a distance away from Steffan’s house that sat in the bend of the crescent-shaped road. Eilian, however, could easily make out all of the details even from that distance. From the darkened corner of the room, Steffan began to speak, “The deed was transferred to an Anya DeVera—” Eilian interrupted Steffan, “Now that’s the part I still don’t get. Ryan sent the proposal to buy the house from us. Why wasn’t the house in his name? What name was it under again?” “Anise DeVera. From what the attorney said at closing, Ryan purchased the house under an associate’s name for business purposes. This must be her sister who inherited the house. We’ll have to talk to M.J. and her team to get the latest transgression reports and find out what happened to Anise. I never intended for a mortal to move into our neighborhood, one we didn’t already have an evaluation on.” “I know!” Eilian looked down at the floor, shaking his head. “I guess we will have to do some recon on her.”

Veil of Seduction

75

Steffan continued as he changed the subject, “Keep looking. Can you see if it’s an entire mortal family moving in? If we have to, it would be a much easier task to enthrall one and not an entire family. And one is much easier to have as a feeder, if the palate is right.” “Actually, it looks like this is her coming up in the SUV now. I don’t think she was here earlier.” Eilian watched as Anya got out of her vehicle and thanked Fat Eddie and his crew. He caught the detail of a most delicate symbol tattooed on the back of her right shoulder before she wrapped herself in a shawl. As the moving truck turned around and started back down the road, Anya went back to her vehicle. Eilian was delighted to report the news of what he saw next. “No children. No boyfriend. No ring on her finger. No dogs. Just a…a cello” “A cello?” Steffan smiled. “Nice.” **** Anya’s long, black hair flowed all around her face in the wind. She raised her sunglasses and settled them on her head in effort to keep her hair back and out of her eyes. She took a moment to examine her surroundings. It was quiet. No cars. No children. No one was outside. In the distance, she could see the home high on the hill. It looked like a castle right out of the countryside somewhere in Europe. She walked to the edge of her driveway and tried squinting out a better detail of the home. Is that a formal English garden? “Oh, I gotta see this!” she said out loud. Anya hurried and placed the cello in the house, closed the door, and jumped back into her vehicle. She backed the SUV down the driveway and headed down the street. Anya pulled in front of the castle, marveling at its dominating architecture and the maze of boxwood hedges that sat on the lawn. She stepped out of the car to get a better view. ****

76

Maya DeLeina

Suddenly, the red jasper in Steffan’s pocket started to vibrate. He reached for the stone and was surprised by its warmth and, most importantly, the absence of any electric sparks that once radiated from the stone. The electricity had been replaced by an intense sensual sensation that permeated his body, centering its strength on his crotch. He grasped the stone tighter, not wanting to let go of the erotic experience. He braced himself in the corner of the room as he released a moan. The woman’s scent that had filled his nostrils since the day he first touched the stone was more pronounced. The fragmented images he had held started to reveal more of the woman, her almond-shaped eyes and dark, black lines etched on brown skin. His breathing quickened. Oblivious to what was happening to Steffan, Eilian continued reporting on the woman. “Okay, weird. She’s just standing there looking at the garden and then all of sudden, she starts having an epileptic seizure or something. She is hanging on to the vehicle for support.” Steffan did not respond to Eilian’s report. “Steffan, should I go out there? She’s like…shaking bad out there now, I need to help her. Steffan?” Eilian turned around and looked over at Steffan in the corner. Steffan’s back stiffened against the corner of the wall. His head doubled over in front of him. His mouth was slightly open, taking in and releasing heavy breaths. His eyes shut tightly. Bent at the knees, Steffan’s hands balled into fists at each side of his leg. His hips thrust up and down in a slow fluid motion. Steffan let out another long, needful moan. “Steffan!” Eilian screamed. He ran to the corner and shook Steffan by the shoulders. The red jasper rolled out of one of his balled fists, and Steffan opened his eyes sheepishly. “What?” Steffan murmured. Eilian responded with irritation, “What? You were in the corner here having a seizure just as I was telling you that our new homeowner was about to bite her tongue off in the street from a damn seizure as well! Are you okay? You never had seizures before. Shit! Did the sunlight hit you or something?” “No.”

Veil of Seduction

77

Eilian backed off of Steffan as he looked down at his pants. “What the…your pants are soaked! What the hell did you do? You sure you didn’t accidentally move into the sunlight?” Eilian snapped his fingers in front of Steffan’s face to regain his attention. “Hello?” “I…uh…no,” responded Steffan in a daze. “I uh no? What the hell is wrong with you? Just wait for a sec, let me check on her.” Eilian ran to the window, but the Anya had already driven off and was pulling back into her driveway. She got out of the car and bent over, resting her hands on her knees, catching her breath. “Hmm, I guess she’s okay.” “Eilian, did she have almond-shaped eyes, olive skin, and long, black hair?” Steffan asked from the dark corner. “Yes.” Eilian turned away from the window and walked back to the corner next to Steffan. “She’s actually quite stunning, when she isn’t going into convulsions, that is.” Still leaning up against the wall, Steffan closed his eyes and asked, “Eilian, did she have a symbol tattooed on the back of her right shoulder?” “Yes! But how did you…” Eilian turned and looked toward window and then settled back on Steffan. Eilian looked on the ground and picked up the red jasper. “Steffan, were you touching this as she came near the house?” “Yes.” “Her eyes, her hair, her tattoo…they all projected in your mind?” “Yes.” “Any strong scents you picked up on?” “Yes.” “And this is the same stone you found on Ryan that night?” “Yes.” Eilian’s eyes were wide in astonishment. The air was thick with mystery and euphoria. Steffan leaned back to look at his crotch. “Eilian?” His arms and hands were frozen in front of him. He was stuck in a position as if he was preparing to catch something. “Yes?” “I believe I just came in my pants.”

78

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Seven Eilian pulled the long needle out of Steffan’s vein. “This should be the last one. We can test in about fifteen minutes.” Eilian stood up from his kneeling position on the floor. “And I’ll even cross my toes this time.” Black blood spewed from the puncture wound. Steffan pressed his thumb firmly on the site to stop the blood flow. Bringing his arm up toward his mouth, he released his thumb and quickly brushed his tongue along his flesh and sealed the puncture instantly. Situated on the edge of his king-size canopy bed, Steffan sat bare chested with only his black, silk pajama pants on. Steffan drew his fist into his hair above his forehead and squeezed until the disheveled strands bunched between his fingers. “Eilian, this has to work this time, you hear me? I’m going insane! All I do is think about her when I am awake and dream of her when I sleep. It’s so strong that I don’t even need to touch the stone now. I feel her all the time.” Steffan emphasized his last three words as his fingers released his hair. “I calculated out the expected schedule for your age, but for some reason, your body has still taken longer to adapt and accept Defender.” Eilian shook his head. He turned his back to Steffan as he worked on capping the syringe and placing it into a plastic container that sat on the nightstand. Steffan peered up at Eilian. As if a sudden hole bore through his back from the irritation radiating from Steffan, Eilian stated, “Don’t look at me that way. You brought this on yourself.” He turned around and entered notes of the time and units he had just administered on his laptop that sat on the bed next to Steffan. “Each day you tested your resistance on your own, each day the serum failed to sufficiently protect you, you caused harm and injury to yourself. I had no choice but to lock you in this room so you could heal and not

Veil of Seduction

79

damage yourself further.” Eilian closed the laptop, walked to the seating area of the master bedroom and laid himself down on the leather chaise. “I have never met someone more tenacious than you. You just can’t accept that you’re not in control of anything right now, can you? You cannot control the Defender, you cannot control what you’re feeling, and you certainly cannot control her.” Steffan nodded in response and lay back on the bed. He stared at the white gauze canopy that floated above him. For weeks now, he’d fantasized about making love to her under the canopy, imagining the way the white material would dance in the evening breeze, gliding over her skin, covering their writhing bodies. The visions were so vivid, so stimulating. He could feel every sensation their union would create. Every kiss, every touch, every breath they would share coursed through his body. His mind was frenzied. At times, he would visualize taking her slowly and gently, executing a methodical exchange of sheer ecstasy and passion. At other times, he would dream of a mildly sadistic tryst, taking her without regard, without care, unleashing his raw, animalistic desire for her. All he could do for these past weeks was resort to pleasuring himself as the images burned in his mind. Nothing could sate the hunger or thirst that still burned in him until he had her. He had grown mad with desire for Anya. “Steffan, are you even listening to me?” Eilian asked in an agitated tone as he sat up on the chaise. “Sorry. I was daydreaming—of her.” Steffan smiled as he cocked an eyebrow and laid one hand on his chest. “Look, I know this is hard for you. I’m telling you, according to the lab results, the dose I just administered should do the trick. After we test and officially call it a success”—Eilian paused to glance at his wristwatch— “which is now in about ten minutes, you can prepare for your long-awaited quest. Now, I suggest you spend that time resting and cleaning yourself up. You look like hell.” Eilian got up from the chaise and walked over to Steffan who remained lying on the bed. “And you’ll be happy to know I found her! I have some news to report on her for you since M.J.’s report didn’t give us much on Ryan.”

80

Maya DeLeina

Steffan sprang up immediately from his position and stood face-to-face with Eilian. “News? I didn’t ask you to do anything that involved her! What did you do? Did you talk to her, go near her, touch her?” Steffan demanded. Steffan searched Eilian’s eyes. “Do not tell me you fed from her!” Eilian took a step back and pushed a hand against Steffan’s chest. “Relax. I’ve simply been following her!” Eilian placed both hands on Steffan’s shoulder to push him back into a sitting position on the bed. “I will excuse your behavior since you have no obvious control. This inborn trait to protect your potential mate, you have to try and control it! Trust me and trust in what I’m trying to do here. Don’t ever think I would do anything to harm the connection between you two. Even though we don’t share the same blood, I consider you my brother.” Steffan looked down. “I’m sorry, Eilian. I don’t know what came over me. I never felt this way before in all of my years. I don’t like losing control.” Eilian crouched in front of Steffan. “I know it’s hard, but you have to try and control yourself. Our existence, what we are, we’re predatory by nature. It will always be in us. You have to fight to suppress everything your body and mind tells you to do. She won’t be able to comprehend all of the intrinsic behaviors of a male vampire and how hard you’re struggling to manage it. If you can’t control yourself, you may end up scaring her off and driving her away for good.” Steffan remained motionless, with his head hanging in regret. “Between the lack of information in the reports and the fact that Ryan didn’t live in our town, I had no choice. I had to go find her and study her. We need to understand what the connection is with her and the stone. We have to make sure we piece together her relationship and importance to Ryan before you pursue her…otherwise it could—” “Do you think I would carelessly put my desire for a mate first and potentially cause turmoil in this family? I knew this was something I would have figure out first,” Steffan shouted and interrupted Eilian. Steffan pulled the stone from his pocket and laid it out on the white satin sheets of his bed. “Eilian, from the moment I first touched this stone on the night I turned Ryan, I made it a point to understand the connection before I pursued anything that was inherent in the touch reaction.”

Veil of Seduction

81

Steffan rose from the bed, and Eilian straightened from his crouch. Steffan paced the bedroom. “I told you, Ryan doesn’t recall the stone as ever belonging to him. I entered his mind several times. There’s no one there. I had him hold on to the stone. Nothing sparked for him. I can’t find anyone that he retained in his images or emotion. I talked to Vaughn, and Ryan never made mention of anyone when he came up here to visit. I’m telling you, I did my due diligence before I started trying to connect with whoever had touched the stone within that twenty-four-hour period and projected compatibility onto me.” “Steffan, we have to be sure…” “You want to know how damn sure I am?” Eilian sat on the edge of the bed quietly awaiting Steffan’s response. “After I was able to acquire her image, her scent, her voice…I projected everything, all of her, into Ryan.” “And?” “And still, nothing. Absolutely no reaction or recollection. Nothing. He has no clue who she is.” Eilian sighed. “Absolutely nothing at all?” Steffan shook his head. “Well then, I would certainly say you did everything you could.” Eilian paused for a moment, smiled, and continued, “That makes me even more certain of their connection that I was able to piece together.” Steffan ran his fingers through his unruly hair and his other hand rested at his hip. “And you couldn’t tell me you already figured out their connection before I went on rambling?” “I had to know what your frame of mind was, for your own protection. I knew your connection to her was deep. I didn’t know if you were going to be strong enough to look past your desire to pursue her as your mate or uphold the family’s principles first, you know…look at the situation from an ethical standpoint and think about the impact it could have on Ryan,” Eilian explained. “After all these years…I thought you knew me better than that,” Steffan said with a hint of resentment.

82

Maya DeLeina

“I’m sorry to have doubted you, Steffan. I was just looking out for your best interests. But I have no doubts now. You are truly a selfless man.” Steffan nodded in understanding, his hand crossed over his chest. “Now, what is the connection?” “She works part-time at that metaphysical shop in town, you know, Mystic’s Mirth, the one Michelle owns?” “Dominic’s Michelle?” “Yes,” Eilian responded. “You are saying Dominic is somehow connected to my mate?” “No, don’t you see what I am saying? Michelle’s shop is the link to the jasper, the jasper that linked you to your mate. Once I found her at the shop, I watched her for hours on end.” “And,” Steffan said with agitation. “And you could say Anya knew Ryan pretty well. He was engaged to Anise…her identical twin sister,” Eilian reported with a childlike enthusiasm. “What? How do you know this to be absolutely true?” Steffan asked. “At first, I got the sense that Anya was Ryan’s wife. But M.J. offered to come with me one day to watch her, you know, help make sense of it all,” Eilian explained. “Given our past, I am surprised she wanted to help in my mate quest.” “She holds no ill feelings. I think she is over you,” Eilian responded. Steffan quickly changed the subject, “What in the hell is wrong with the man? He hasn’t recalled the woman he was engaged to? And, twins…identical twins, and he still didn’t recall anything even when I projected Anya’s images in his mind? Did she not mean much to him? Did he just view her as an object or possession? I mean, he put the house in her name, for Christ’s sake!” “I know, it’s strange, really. He could recall all of his material positions, but no human connections. In fact, I am really tired of hearing about the damn Mercedes he wrecked in the accident. Didn’t you promise to replace it?” Steffan let out a long sigh. “Yes.” He took a seat on the bed next to Eilian, crossing one knee over the mattress so he could face Eilian. “That was the only thing I could offer to appease him after I told him about the

Veil of Seduction

83

situation with the house. Well, that and the new house he could build to his specifications. That reminds me, is he working well with Richard?” “For the most part. Although Richard has his moments of frustration. Ryan keeps changing the plans, always saying he wants it bigger than Steffan’s house. He apparently still doesn’t understand that your house serves as the main portal to the underground.” “By the way, did you remind everyone to use the tunnels while our new mortal resident is out roaming the grounds?” “They know. Everyone has been briefed. Anyway, about the red jasper. Ryan got the stone from Mystic’s Mirth. Anya must’ve handled the stone just enough to leave a good amount of trace on it, rubbing and clutching it before wrapping it up for Ryan the morning of the accident. I tell you, the timing of her touch on that stone that morning and him dropping in your hands that very same evening was pure luck.” Eilian shook his head in disbelief. “Rubbing and clutching the stone?” Steffan asked, a look of confusion plainly etched in his expression. “Yeah, they teach people about the properties of stones at the shop. How to use them, draw out their energy and healing power by rubbing it on an ailing part of the body, rubbing it with your fingers to disperse negative energy, things like that.” Eilian drew the stone by its cord as it sat between Steffan and Eilian on the white, satin sheet. Eilian dangled it in front of Steffan’s eyes. “How should I put this? This particular stone is said to have the power of arousal and to promote sexual gratification.” “You don’t believe that, do you?” Steffan chuckled as he reached for the stone. “Actually, it’s quite interesting. Ancient shamans believe that stone’s first and foremost purpose is to provide a layer of protection to those around it. The sexuality aspect, however, the power to encourage sexual compatibility, to create arousal and to prolong sexual pleasure, is its secondary power and is only released when there’s a pure connection made between two people who have touched the stone.” Steffan clutched the stone tightly in his grip. “I never believed in anything like this before.”

84

Maya DeLeina

“So you’re saying you regularly dry hump the air in the corner of your house and bring yourself to an orgasm in your pants?” “Good point.” Steffan rolled his eyes. “Never, ever do that in front of me again,” Eilian stated. Steffan hung his head in obvious embarrassment as he recalled the moment. “What else did you find out? I mean, what is her day like? What does she do?” “She only works at Michelle’s store in the morning. By afternoon, she’s busy giving cello lessons in the warehouse district downtown. She plays elegantly and beautifully. Very much up to your standards, you’ll find.” “Magnificent.” “On the weekends, she volunteers her time to teach music to underprivileged kids. She even contributed her own money to the program and raised additional funds from donations and grants to purchase all of the instruments for the children to practice on.” “Wow.” Steffan responded. He felt childish in his response and sat quietly in his reflection. “Steffan, now hear me out on this.” Eilian paused and chose his words carefully as he spoke. “I’m overcome with a feeling of…unconditional closeness to her.” “What are you saying?” “I watched her for days on end because I didn’t get it at first. She felt so familiar to me, so comforting. Then it finally dawned on me. She was projecting you. I see so much of your mannerism in everything she does naturally, all the things you do and how you carry yourself mirrored in her. Anya even bites down on her pinky finger when she’s in deep thought like you. But honestly, she’s like-minded in the need to help people, placing the needs of others before anything else. You both are equal in that passion. And the music, my god, the music! There is no question about this. I hold no attraction for her even though she’s clearly beautiful and I feel a strong kinship to her without having met. It’s all because Anya is destined to be a part of our family, as your mate.” Steffan took in a deep breath. He said nothing. There were no words to articulate his emotion, no emotion to convey the depth of his euphoria.

Veil of Seduction

85

For so long, his existence had been guided by solitude, the darkness his nightly companion. The thought of being liberated of his lonesome enslavement, to live for the purpose of tending to someone else’s needs and happiness, to love with his soul, besieged him. Love was the ultimate possession. All of his wealth and belongings could never amount to what he was about to give and what he was about to receive, unconditionally, without limits and in complete totality. “You did it, Steffan. You found your mate. And she’s not bound to Ryan. You can freely start your quest!” Eilian looked down at his watch and smiled. “It’s time.” As the two men made their way to the glass breezeway that connected the house and the garage, an overwhelming sense of anticipation filled Steffan. He suddenly broke into a sprint and Eilian followed suit. They raced each other down the grand staircase, past the foyer, the great room, and kitchen to the long hallway that led to the breezeway. Steffan could barely control his emotions as they reached the door that opened to the passage. Eilian entered the code on the key pad as Steffan stood back in the darkened hall. Slowly, the door opened. Sunshine immediately filled the darken hall, and Steffan shielded his eyes momentarily as he adjusted to the sudden flood of light. Eilian entered the light first and made his way to the middle of the breezeway. “C’mon Steffan, let’s try this!” Steffan took drawn out, methodical steps. He could feel the temperature change around him as he neared breezeway. He fought every pining instinct to retreat into the darkness for fear of the scorching pain that would consume him. Cautiously, he entered the light. One foot, one hand, he moved with calculation until they were totally engulfed by the sun. He stilled and waited. No fire from the sun. No burning in his veins. No pain. Nothing. He delved deeper, inch by inch. His corded, muscular frame was drenched in sunshine. And still, there was no pain. The warmth washed

86

Maya DeLeina

down his chilled body, and an undefined welcoming sensation enveloped him. It was a feeling he had almost forgotten. Never before had he felt more human than this moment. Suddenly, the light dissipated, taking its radiance and life with it. Steffan looked up at the sky in bitterness. A cloud floated leisurely by, consuming the brilliance. He tilted his head, evaluating the formation of the cloud, and smiled. Patiently he waited, the air heavy with expectation. And there it was. A beam of light penetrated through, striking its ray directly where Steffan stood. He closed his eyes, spread out his arms, leaned his head back, and let the light saturate him. “Eilian! It’s working! My god, I haven’t felt this warmth for so long! This is amazing!” “How do you feel?” Eilian asked with exuberance as he watched Steffan experience the sunlight for the first time as a vampire. “Alive!” Steffan opened his eyes to look at Eilian. Tears dropped from his eyes. Eilian backed up against the glass as Steffan began to run the length of the breezeway like a child. On his last pass, Steffan grabbed at Eilian’s shoulders and wrapped his arms around him. “Thank you, brother. Thank you.” “Let’s get you inside. You need your rest. You have a big day ahead of you tomorrow. You’re going to meet your mate.” Eilian and Steffan walked back into the darkened house side by side with their arms around each other’s necks. “Let me try one more thing,” Steffan said as Eilian closed the door to the breezeway behind them. Steffan carried himself to the great room with eagerness. Out of breath, he leaned against the long wall as he entered a code on the keypad. Simultaneously, the Roman shades in the great room retracted. The floor-toceiling windows allowed the sunlight to spread like long fingers stretching across the dark, exotic wood floor. Light spilled onto everything in the room, uncovering and highlighting areas one by one. The sculptures, antique furniture, rugs, and paintings all sparkled with brilliancy and vividness. The illumination accentuated the details of the Buddha carved from the granite boulder that jutted through the

Veil of Seduction

87

wall just above the modern fireplace. The décor’s palate of brown, sienna, gold, burnt orange, caramel, and moss created a fusion of color that cascaded up past the distressed wooden beams and bathed the ceilings in an earthy spice. Steffan relished the transformation of his interior as he walked toward the expanse of windows. “This view is spectacular! Look at the penetration of vibrant colors and textures, the depth, the life out there. The mountains, they look so…so…animated. I never saw purple quite like that,” Steffan said in amazement as if looking at his surroundings for the very first time. Steffan took a step back and situated himself on the carved daybed that sat in front of the windows. One by one, he slowly pulled his legs from the floor to his chest and crossed them in a seated position. Eilian smiled as his eyes remained fixed on Steffan. Steffan continued to scan, explore, and discover all of the new visions nature’s light afforded him. It was as if his eyes couldn’t keep up with his demands to see further and farther. He sighed in pure contentment as he let his arms rest on each side of his lap. Eilian moved in to take a seat next to Steffan. Both men closed their eyes, leaned their heads back, and allowed the sunlight to saturate them. All was still in their exchange. The silence was deafening. “Steffan, I also examined the latest transgression reports on your behalf.” Eilian’s voiced pierced the quiet. “And?” Steffan said, his eyes still remaining shut. “Nothing of any notable interest, two mishaps with feeders and a recent case of a rogue near the reservoir in Woodland Park. The families already took care of the perpetrators while you were…indisposed. The rogue is still in the Nemesis as we speak. Anyway, M.J.’s team filed the reports as a suicide, a backcountry skiing accident, and in the case of the rogue, a wild animal attack.” Steffan opened his eyes. “Let’s schedule the meeting with all of the families to discuss this latest rogue attack. We’ll want to get a handle on this before we start to cause panic in the community with reports of more and more mountain lion and bear attacks. I don’t want to place these animals in jeopardy once again when it’s none of their doing. It will also be good for

88

Maya DeLeina

the family to see me, to be reassured that I’m still in control and mindful of protecting our existence. ” “Will do.” “Has anyone asked about my condition?” “Yes. Everyone had sensed you were on your quest. They’re all eager to meet your mate, when it’s time.” Eilian placed his hand at either side and grasped the edge of the bench. “So when I had M.J. pull Anise’s report, I also had her pull IDs, legal filings, anything on Anise, Anya, and Ryan from the database.” Eilian paused and spoke softly, “Steffan, for some reason, we can’t get much on Anya, I had to piece a lot of it together myself. But from what I have read about her family background, she’s been through a lot of misfortune and heartbreak in her life.” Steffan moved to let his feet rest on the floor. He looked down at the floor, stricken with a stinging pain in his chest as he thought of his mate’s sadness. He remained with his chin resting against his chest as he readied to receive the information. “What happened to her, Eilian?” “Anya has no family left. Her parents died in a helicopter crash when she was a freshman in college. After graduating, she married one of her father’s close colleagues. One year later, he too passed, of a brain aneurysm. Even though that was seven years ago, she only recently changed her name from Anya Somar back to Anya DeVera. She did this around the same time Anise died in a car accident. Maybe she felt the need to retain her given name once again after she realized she was the only one left of her family.” Steffan shook his head in disbelief. He walked to the windows and peered at the town saturated in sunlight. “Eilian, how could one person go through so much pain and tragedy in their lifetime? She’s been on earth for only thirty-something years, and yet she’s experienced all that pain? How does this happen? Why does this happen?” Steffan closed his eyes. “I want her more than ever right now. I want to hold her and make her feel love and happiness. I want to shield her from ever feeling pain again.” “Listen, Anise’s case—it was handled by the humans. Anise was a mortal with a clear cause of death, so M.J.’s team had to back off. The filed reports have accounts from eye witnesses at the crash scene. Anise was

Veil of Seduction

89

driving along the interstate when the tire on the car traveling in front of her had a blowout. To avoid hitting the car, she swerved out of the way, but ended up slamming into the concrete median head-on instead. Anise died instantly upon impact and the vehicle burst into flames, burning her body. Dental records identified her charred remains. Get this. The report also states that her fiancé, Ryan Evans, could not be reached for notification and they also learned from his business associates that he mysteriously went missing weeks earlier. We’re gonna have to get him back out in public soon to clear this part up.” Eilian stood up and walked toward the windows. As he gazed at the view, he asked, “So now that you know everything about her past, do you think the choice will be easier for you?” Steffan slipped his hands deep in his pockets, his eyes glistening in the sun as he spoke. “Our connection to each other is very strong. I have no doubt that once she understands who and what I am, she will still choose to become my mate, an immortal, of her own free will. For me, knowing that she’s out there all alone makes the decision of claiming her easier to accept.”

90

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Eight She stood there stripped, almost bare. He insisted that she remain in her black high heels and black lace thong. A cascade of pearls maneuvered their way between her plump breasts and came to rest at various lengths along the span of her bare chest and navel. A black silk scarf rested gently over her eyes. The smooth fabric smelled of lavender and combined delicately with the spicy aromatic release of the incense suspended in the room. She stood still, delighting in the way her senses were finely tuned, compensating for her temporary lack of sight. A gentle wind coiled around her and dissipated slowly, imparting her body with a tingling sensation. Then she felt the heat of his scorching eyes fixate on her from every direction. She was entranced by his rhythmic gait radiating completely around her as his heavy breathing accentuated his cadence. She was the exposed prey being methodically encircled by a ravenous beast. The thought of her weakness in his dominance was stimulating. What is he going to do me? Her body swayed. Her legs shuddered in their place. Every shard of concentration she had left was summoned to the balls of her feet as she fought to keep herself balanced and stable. Suddenly, the pacing movements stopped dead in their tracks. She felt his heavy breath releasing behind her like a hungry creature ready to pounce. The heat radiating from his body tingled her backside. It seemed like an eternity that he stood there motionless, without a word, calculating his attack. She directed her focus on the ethereal flavor of the instrumental piece softly playing in the room as she awaited his touch. The music was his parallel, sensual and mesmerizing.

Veil of Seduction

91

He lightly swept back her long, silky hair and laid it to rest on her back, exposing her neck and shoulders. The movement caused the back of his hand to caress the sensitive flesh behind her neck and sent her into a quiver. His fingertips landed on the top of her hands. Slowly, he traced her skin, up her hand and through the length of her arm with a feather-like touch until his strong hands came to rest, cupping the tips of her shoulders. She drew in heavy, swift breaths. Her nipples hardened at his touch. Her flesh was tender, her knees weak. The intense sexual arousal, the pure eroticism of their connection, was consuming. The simplicity of his touch, his breath, his scent was enough to send her over the edge. The encounter with this man was unlike anything she’d experienced in her life. He was so in tune with what her body craved, little things really, a touch here, a rasp there. He knew the level of intensity he wanted to flood her with, sending her into overdrive. It was like he was made just for her and her for him. Ultimate satisfaction, nothing left unexplored, no one left unfilled. All that remained was longing for more. In one fluid motion, he bent over, dipping his head into her and slowly kissed the column of her exposed neck. A moan escaped her lips as a shot of numbing electricity penetrated her, traveling from his kiss down to her toes. He released her neck and moved to the opposite side, planting his warm, wet kisses from the crease of her neck up behind her ear. This sensation was overwhelming. Goosebumps spread like wildfire all through her body. A spasm erupted in the pit of her stomach and rippled its way down to her pelvis. Her toes curled in a spontaneous response. She rocked her hips gently to spread the moisture being released between her legs. He pressed his body to mold against her backside as he entwined his fingers into hers. Gradually, he raised her arms above her head, splaying her in all of her vulnerability. He released a lustful breath in her ear as he worked his hardness against her, gently grinding his hips up along the curves of her ample rear. With her arms fully extended, he slid his hands down the length of her inner arm, causing the sensitive skin to shudder under his touch. Tenderly, he bent her elbows and wrapped her arms around his neck until her back was fully arched. She leaned her head back against him, allowing him to take in her image in its most uninhibited and raw form.

92

Maya DeLeina

She was entranced with the way her body and her mind naturally responded to him. She released a sudden gasp as he cupped her breasts. He gently squeezed and kneaded her mounds, massaging her hardened nipples between his fingertips. His tender touch became increasingly needful with every second. His fingers slowed their worship on her and dug deeper, seizing a wider grasp with great intensity. His breath was hot against her skin and slowly shifted into animalistic pants. Suddenly he released a delicious moan in her ear that set off a wild release that saturated her thong with marked wetness. He rocked harder and harder against her. His masculine hands seized each side of her rib cage, his control slowly unraveling. He spread his fingers and pressed his flat palms firmly against her as he crisscrossed over and down the length of her abdomen with intense need. He pushed down on her back, bending her over until her firm, plump ass pressed against his hardness. He held on to her shoulders and ground obsessively into her. He fisted the material of her thong as she remained bent over, holding on to the sides of the floor-length mirror for support. The sound of fabric tearing with his insatiable need was electrifying. The material hit the floor and her lace thong was nothing but small remnants of an unidentified garment. He was losing his control. A ravenous beast now stood next to her. The heat of his body faded in an instant as the blindfold knot released behind her head. The black silk scarf fell to the floor. She turned around, gasping for breath and found him standing with his bare back facing her. He stood barefoot and breathless with his hands tucked in the pocket of his black trousers, trying to regain his composure. The canopy that suspended high over the bed sent white fabric pouring down from the ceiling, pooling to the floor. The waterfall of sheer fabric floated around the room with the evening breeze, seemingly in a dance to the music that resonated through the room. She walked to him, her heels echoing and signaling her path to him. She was untamed in her approach. This was no time for him to fight for selfcontrol. She wanted to release the beast inside him. She needed him to occupy every space in her mind, body, and soul.

Veil of Seduction

93

He released his hands from his pockets and dropped them to his side in anticipation of her assault. She pressed her breasts up against his bare back and grasped his hips. She traced her hardened nipples up and down his moistened back and took a deep breath. His scent was intoxicating, a mixture of spicy musk with a subtle hint of clean citrus. Her crafty hands reached in front of him, unfastening his belt buckle slowly. As the leather pieces of the belt separated from each other, she ran her hands against his engorged shaft that was pressing against the trouser material. He let out a deep moan and drew his head back. She slowly slipped the zipper of his trousers down and moved to undo the button that secured the garment to his hips. The trousers fell abruptly to the ground. He stepped out of the material, his bare foot kicking away the garment with unrestrained urgency. She tucked her fingers under the elastic band of his form-fitting, black briefs, encircling her fingers around his waist until they met. She inched the material downward, carefully maneuvering the material over the thickness of his shaft. He stood there, stripped, completely bare. She took a step back to admire his breathtaking form. The defined muscles cut in and out of his back, the broadness of his shoulders emphasized by his tight rib cage and slender waist. His buttocks were sculpted, displaying two perfect round forms. Deep-black tattoos decorated each arm, accenting his chiseled muscles that were proportionately gratifying and breathtaking. A weave of geometric lines deliciously encircled his left bicep. An endless loop without beginning or end, the tattoo seemed to define a junction of unity and eternity. On his right, a shield was prominently on display. A series of intricate contours delicately traced the symbol, the design lending to the form of a winged creature. And just like him, the tattoos were mesmerizing, intriguing, and mysterious. He stood like a statue, unwavering, allowing her to soak in every detail. He showed no reserve or inhibition. He was at total ease with his nudity in her presence. He personified physical dominance, a man who could serve as

94

Maya DeLeina

her protector. And a man who could completely ravish her, serve her animalistic need. The breeze intensified, and the canopy material blew across his chest, draping over a shoulder and running down the length of his back. It created the most sensual sight. Catching the length of the material as it swayed off his back, she pulled his left arm behind and entwined the white material around his wrist. His right arm followed, positioning it to rest palm over palm as she worked the material around both wrists. She reached in front of him and cupped his aching flesh. He hissed like a cat in response, his body tensing at her touch. She released her hand and traced down his engorged shaft. From the frenulum down to the base, she traced every vein, every contour. His skin felt like soft leather. He trembled in response. She grasped his thickness and ran her hand up and down, allowing his skin to slide along the shaft. His buttocks tensed as he let out a long, resonant groan. She continued to stroke him, grasping harder in a rhythmic building of need. She traced kisses down his biceps. All the while, he was making his way out of the hand restraints. He caught her hand in his and turned, forcing her backside against him once again. Restraining the beast proved to be the last straw. His passion was like a wildfire, spreading freely, uncontrolled and without a clear path. The dam of self control was broken. Hunger, craving, desire peaked in his eyes. He grabbed the white fabric and laced it around her neck. He pulled her arm behind her and wrapped her hand around his cock. She stroked him up and down, relishing the feel of his moistened tip. He fisted the material tightly around her neck as his free hand traveled to her crotch and explored the wetness of her folds wildly, passionately. “Anya?” he whispered in her ear. The intense timbre of his voice, his heavy panting, the magnetism of his sexy accent, melted her heart. “Yes?” “Can I take you?” he asked. “Take me!” “Can I…claim you?” he asked again, this time with a slight hesitation. “Claim me!” He grabbed her shoulders fiercely and turned her around.

Veil of Seduction

95

“Anya?” A faint female voice echoed. “Anya!” Michelle shook Anya as she napped on the futon in her office. Anya opened her eyes wide and blinked repeatedly to focus on Michelle as her heavy breathing slowed. Michelle was crouched by the futon, sporting a smile, but with a profound look of regret on her face. “I’m sorry, honey, I know it must’ve been a real good one with you moaning and writhing here, but you said to wake you at this time so you could get down to the studio.” “Yeah, thanks. Really, thank you. I needed you to do that.” Anya sat up and continued, “Sorry. I still haven’t been able to get a good night’s rest lately. I keep having these types of dreams, ever since that day.” “It must be the thin air up there in Ambrose Heights!” Michelle said jokingly to lighten mood. She sat back down in her office chair and put her reading glasses on. “So, did you get to see his face this time?” “No. But his scent, the sound of his voice and that sexy accent of his is etched in my brain. They’ll stay with me, even after I wake up.” Suddenly, Anya recalled something she never saw revealed in other dreams. “Wait! I saw tattoos!” “Tattoos? Of what?” “I don’t know, like a tribal armband on one side.” Anya motioned around her left bicep as she recalled the image in her mind. “The other side looked like a crest, right up at the top of his shoulder. It was very distinctive. Very…sexy.” Michelle squinted in apparent jealousy. “And you’re complaining about sleep when you’re having these most delicious erotic dreams of a tattooed hottie? You can sleep when you’re dead.” “I mean really, I’m wondering if something is wrong with me. The dreams are so vivid, so sensory-based. Is this a result of overactive hormones?” Anya slipped on her jewelry one by one that she’d laid out on the coffee table. “Is this supposed to be happening to my mind, my body giving me one last hoorah before menopause starts to kick in?” Anya paused. “You never had anything like this before, did you?” “Of course I did. Don’t you remember? I used to have really wild sexual dreams about Dominic. I just don’t think mine were as detailed or intense as

96

Maya DeLeina

yours. I couldn’t recall a scent or voice like you do. Mine were all visually based on a man I knew.” A hint of vulnerability and sadness was etched on Michelle’s face. Anya studied her emotions. Suddenly, Michelle jumped to another subject. “So, new student huh?” “Three of them actually. Out of the clear blue, a man called, said I was recommended by someone I taught through the Heartstrings program. He booked the entire month, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., for relatives of his.” Anya stood up and draped her silk shawl around her shoulders. “Next thing I know, I have an envelope delivered to the studio, payment in full, and a bonus for the short notice and readjusting my availability.” “Wow. Who was the check from? Who was it that recommended you?” “Cash payment, and he couldn’t recall.” “Hmm. Well, still a great opportunity, although, the timing sucks. I just wish this happened for you when that bastard left you broke. Now you have your inheritance.” “Michelle, I still need the money. I paid off all the debts with the inheritance, but I didn’t keep any of it for myself. I used some of it to help build up Heartstrings, and I donated the rest to various charities.” Michelle took off her glasses and jumped from her chair. “I didn’t know you didn’t keep it! Why? Why did you do that? Why didn’t you tell me? I know money doesn’t make up for the loss of loved ones, but with all that you been through, you deserved this.” “It was a choice I made. I really didn’t want to talk about my reasons.” “But I don’t understand! You could’ve traveled, seen all the places you talked about visiting, buy yourself a little piece of happiness for god’s sake!” Michelle sat down next to Anya on the futon. “Just as you never want to talk about what happened with Dominic with me, I don’t discuss money with you.” “Ouch,” replied Michelle. As it stood, Anya was shielding a lot more than money discussions from Michelle, from everyone lately. She had lost both her husband and sister in a matter of weeks, two traumatic events that preceded similar painful, life-changing events in her past. She was amazed at her continued ability to bounce back, retain resiliency. What proved to be more of a challenge was to persuade people

Veil of Seduction

97

around her to treat her with normalcy and not be consumed with asking how she was feeling each second of the day. Michelle had finally stopped hovering and being overly protective of her. She knew she meant well, but all she needed was her friend, not a constant reminder of her tragedies in life. She couldn’t bring herself to confide in Michelle, at least not now, about the realization with which she was currently wrestling. Ryan had been involved with Anise. As she’d spoken with Ryan’s friends and associates after he left, a resonating theme always surfaced. They would reference places and events that they had last seen her and Ryan together at. They always made note that she didn’t “appear to be herself.” At first, she thought she was losing her mind. She started jotting down dates, places, events and comparing them to her calendar. There was no way it was her, unless she’d found a way to clone herself. Ryan, however, had. He had found his ultimate mistress in Anise. He could revel in the excitement and passion of being with someone new, but still parade her around as Anya, his wife, so he wouldn’t tarnish his reputation. Then there was the issue of the money. There was no reasonable explanation for Anise’s sudden influx of wealth. And, with Anya’s joint account and investments dwindled in almost proportionate size to what she eventually inherited from Anise’s estate, it was the last shred of proof she needed. Ryan was already divorced from her in his mind, but the one thing he cared about most, his money, would have to be securely sheltered before he made his break. What a stupid man, to hide it in his mistress’s name. She never figured out why Anise made a will and decided to put her as the beneficiary. She didn’t care, as far as she knew, the money was tainted with lies and deception from the two people she loved the most. All she could do was turn the negativity attached to the money to a positive use. As far as Ryan, she didn’t know what happened to him. It was like he died, but with no burial, no closure. She’d never seen or heard from him since that morning in their driveway. He had simply vanished, and she was ready to move on. She needed to break all ties with Ryan, but getting a divorce from a person who’d vanished proved to be a long battle. She had to

98

Maya DeLeina

hire an investigator to hunt down Ryan. When the efforts proved to be fruitless, she then had to endure the drawn-out process of serving Ryan by publication to finally get a Colorado decree of dissolution and division of their residence. The divorce, however, didn’t give her the power of finality that she’d hoped for. For closure, she dreamt of Ryan, burning in the well with Anise on that cattle ranch. Ryan was dead. With that, she could move on. Anya stood from the futon and reached for the chenille throw. “And you know, it’s been almost a year now, and still you shy away from talking about anything related to Dominic. Why can’t you open up to me, Michelle?” “No, Anya, there are a lot of reasons why I will not talk about him. It’s exactly as you said, I don’t discuss Dominic, and you don’t discuss your crazy need to donate absurd amounts of cash.” “All right, I won’t push it.” Anya folded the throw. “Are you gonna stop by the house tonight?” “Nope, I have a date tonight. We’re going out for some fondue,” Michelle said enthusiastically. “By the way, talk to any of your neighbors yet?” “What can I say? They keep to themselves. It seems I have a connection with the workers rather than the residents there. They’re the only ones who talk to me. Actually, they’re the only ones I see around. Oh, but I did get some information on the owner of the castle.” “Really?” “Yes. I was talking to the caretaker, Vaughn. He’s a very nice man, a real father-figure quality to him. Anyway, the owner is a male, single and…our age.” “And gay.” Michelle shook her head. “No, I don’t think so. I get the strange sense that Vaughn was trying to set us up or something. He kept going on and on about him and was so intent in watching my reaction.” “He’s ugly then.” Michelle shrugged. “Michelle!” Anya picked up her purse and walked over to the floorlength mirror that stood in the corner of the office. The sight of the mirror evoked a flashback from her dream and made her blush.

Veil of Seduction

99

“No. A freak. Anya, it’s a damn castle that looks like he transported it from Romania or something and plopped it atop the mountain here in Colorado. I mean, why didn’t he just finish off and put in a moat and drawbridge in, too—call himself Vlad?” “Michelle, you’re so shallow! Besides, I don’t think Vlad’s castle had a moat. I believe Castle Poenari actually sat Cliffside. Now, the Snagov Monastery, where his tomb is kept, I think that has a moat.” Anya smoothed out her clothes in the mirror. She was beaming on the inside knowing that her knowledge of useless details would infuriate Michelle. On the outside, she kept the straightest face she could possibly muster. “Castle what? Whatever! Look, the guy is what, in his thirties, loaded, and still single? Not very likely. I’m telling you, he’s probably gay or seriously beaten with an ugly stick.” Michelle got up from the futon and headed in Anya’s direction to plead her case. Powdering her nose in the mirror, Anya responded, “Or, maybe he’s just a good-hearted man who hasn’t met the right woman yet.” She closed the compact and reached for her lipstick. “Believe me, you can’t just give your heart to someone. You never know how true they are.” Silence washed over them. Anya froze with lipstick in midair as her own words stung for a second. Moving forward with reapplying her lipstick, Anya broke the silence. “Did you get a chance to research anything on what happened to me that day with the stone?” “Umm, yeah! And thank you, by the way.” Michelle picked up a brush and brushed Anya’s long, black, silky hair. “What?” “I told some patrons your story, you know, to drum up business, and now I’m known as the lady who sells orgasm stones. I’m thinking of renaming the store The Mystic O!” Anya giggled as she reached for her eyeliner. “Just don’t ask me to do a demonstration in the shop for you. Anyone report back anything like my experience?” “What do you think?” Michelle stopped and cocked her head at her in the mirror.

100

Maya DeLeina

“It’s supposed to evoke heightened stimulation and passion for two people who are harmonious in mind and spirit, and it’s conveyed when their bodies touch.” Michelle emphasized the last part. “You? You’re out in a driveway of some ugly, gay man’s house and start having a good old time with nothing but the thin air up there. It’s not supposed to do that.” Michelle shook her head and continued, “I don’t think the stone really had anything to do with it. There has to be another explanation for it.”

Veil of Seduction

101

Chapter Nine Never had Steffan been concerned with his looks or his choice in attire, but today was a day unlike any other. The daily ritual of simply dressing and grooming proved to be difficult. He had spent hours prepping himself, making himself presentable for his mate, but it wasn’t enough. He wanted finery and perfection, or as close as he could possibly get to it. He’d wrestled with the choice of retaining a finely manicured beard, a simply-stated goatee, or a clean-shaven look. He called in reinforcements from the family for their assistance. Catrin and Brynne had jumped at the opportunity to help their leader prepare for his first encounter with Anya. Rhys stood in the doorway of the master bath, exuding an air of complete disturbance, watching Steffan’s masculinity reduced in the primping ritual the women subjected him to. Steffan sat in the chair clothed only in his robe. His long hair was wrapped turban-like with the towel, allowing the deep conditioner to work its magic. The facial mask was generously applied and carefully molded around his eyes and mouth. His face remained still as he balanced two slices of cucumbers on his eyes. The girls worked on his manicure. Catrin kneeled at his feet as Brynne worked on his strong hands. “Houston, we have a problem,” Rhys voiced echoed in the bathroom. “Why? What’s going on?” Eilian asked as he entered the room. “I can’t believe what I’m seeing. I mean, I didn’t go through all of this for Brynne,” Rhys said. Steffan heard Brynne whisper something inaudible under her breath. He smiled.

102

Maya DeLeina

Eilian continued to whisper to Rhys, “You will need to talk to him today, before he leaves. I can’t give him any advice that will help. I don’t know what this is like. You’re the only one in our family who has claimed a human as a mate.” “I know. I got it under control. Before he leaves today, I’ll take him on a walk.” Rhys responded. “Rhys, I truly hope she accepts him, who he is. I don’t know what will happen to him if he’s denied the love of his true mate. Look what happened to Dominic because of Michelle’s decision,” Eilian voiced, as if Steffan wasn’t in the room. “You know, I can hear you two over there,” Steffan said as he sat in the chair. “Hey, right now you are nonexistent to me with all this froufrou stuff you got going on here. Deal with it,” Rhys explained with a hint of utter distaste in his voice. “Rhys, there is nothing wrong with a man getting pampered. You should try it sometime. Trust me, you could use it,” Brynne responded. Steffan chuckled. “W–well, men are supposed to have stinky feet.” Rhys stumbled on his words. Giggles shot across the room. “The Waterboy movie quote? Really? Rhys Matthews, if I weren’t in love with you…” Brynne trailed off. Steffan loved the banter between Rhys and Brynne. Their love for one another was undeniable, yet Brynne’s quick wit and Rhys’s need to quote testosterone-laced movies made for priceless entertainment. “All done, Steffan!” Catrin said as she got up off the floor. “Me, too,” replied Brynne. “Let’s wash off this mask and rinse your hair.” Catrin removed the cucumbers from Steffan’s eyes and helped him rise from the chair while Brynne waited at the sink, spray nozzle in hand. The girls caught each other’s eyes and smiled freely in their enjoyment of the moment. Catrin held on to Steffan by his well-defined bicep, maneuvering him in Brynne’s direction. He walked, unsettled, unbalanced in the rubber flipflops and pink foam inserts that protruded between each toe.

Veil of Seduction

103

“I can’t fricken take this anymore. I’m out!” Rhys said as he turned to exit the bath. “Steffan, you truly disappoint me, allowing the girls to take advantage of you like this!” Steffan’s manicured middle finger waved in a silent response. The women laughed. Brynne went to work, towel drying Steffan’s hair as Catrin delicately dabbed his face dry. Although Catrin and Brynne were family, the act of being totally submissive to a woman excited and pleased Steffan. He tucked that away as a mental note for Anya. “Clean-shaven was definitely the right choice to go with,” Catrin said as she stepped back to examine their handwork on Steffan. Brynne joined her in her examination. “He still needs a little something.” “A new hairstyle, maybe?” Eilian suggested. “New hairstyle? Women never complained about my hair before,” Steffan said hesitantly. “I know…they liked the ponytail action you got going on here,” Eilian said as he tossed Steffan’s hair around. Steffan’s hair sat just below his shoulders. Around his face, long layers fell in varying lengths between his cheekbones and chin. He would vary his look, letting his jet-black hair flow freely or sleeking it back in a ponytail, allowing the scraps of layers to fall where they may. “But this is Anya you’re meeting today. Maybe something more sophisticated?” Eilian said as he winked at Brynne. Brynne nodded in response. **** “What do you think?” Brynne asked. She styled Steffan’s luscious locks in multilayers just above his shoulders. Long, sweeping bangs completed the look. It was a perfect highlight to his rugged features and a suited change. “Actually, I like it,” replied Steffan as he used the handheld mirror to examine the cut from multiple angles and slowly ran his hands through his hair. “Okay, wardrobe time,” said Catrin.

104

Maya DeLeina

Everyone poured into the dressing room. Steffan tried on several outfits and carefully weighed the responses from his audience. After dwindling down the choices, he settled on black trousers and a gray, button-down dress shirt. Catrin had suggested the colors since the gray shirt brought out the silver in his eyes. Steffan dressed, and the girls helped with the finishing touches. Brynne applied dabs of cologne on his neck and chest, while Catrin fixed a brushed silver watch on his wrist. “What about my bracelet?” Steffan inquired. The girls nodded in unison, agreeing that his leather bracelet that bore the eternal love knot would compliment his look. The bracelet was a gift from Idris, right before he passed. The symbol had become part of Steffan, his amulet, a reminder of his desire, his hope for the future. Steffan made his way through his master bedroom, down the catwalk and to the top of the grand staircase with Eilian, Catrin, and Brynne following closely behind. Below, Rhys waited, leaning up against the stately, iron newel post. Behind Rhys stood the remaining family, Griffin, Gwynn, Aeron, Haydn, and Ryan. Playfully, Rhys gasped at the sight of Steffan’s new manicured look. “It’s alive! It’s alive!” “Lay off of the movies for awhile, will you?” Steffan stared down at Rhys. Rhys smiled and clapped as Steffan made his way down the staircase. The rest of the family followed his lead. Ryan joined in, looking awkward in the gesture. “Thank you,” Steffan replied as he blushed from the unwarranted attention. “Before you go, let’s take a walk in the gardens,” Rhys whispered in his ear as he drew him close by the arm. “How did I ever guess you would suggest this,” Steffan said sarcastically. The two men made their way outside and walked past the stone-tiered fountain to the entrance of the garden labyrinth. They walked side by side, in a leisurely gait.

Veil of Seduction

105

“Steffan, you did it. You discovered your mate. But remember all of the advice you gave me when I was courting my mate? Chuck that all out of the window.” “Why? I’ve read all about human mates. I feel ready. I feel prepared.” Steffan’s brow scrunched as he responded to Rhys. “No amount of studying vampire-human mates in the bloodline reports will ever prepare you for this. Anya is your mate and she’s human, pure and natural. All of your instincts will be heightened when you’re around her. You will have these insane urges to have a sexual encounter with her, feed from her and have total dominance over her. You have to find a way to control yourself.” “Control. I get it.” “Steffan, it’s control like you’ve never experienced. It’s control that downright hurts.” Rhys slipped his hands in his pocket and took a seat on the iron bench they came upon. Steffan took a seat next to him. “What’s the claim ritual like Rhys?” “The second phase is the hardest. Sex will be primal and very animalistic. You will have the strong urge to take her wildly and drink from her completely. For me, it felt like this phase was meant to test your love for your human mate against your own need for gratification and sating innate impulses.” “I’ve read where many mate matches didn’t make it past this point,” Steffan said as he gazed into the distance, recalling his readings. Then he turned back to Rhys. “You did it, though.” “Yes. But remember, I was careless. I completed the first two phases without Brynne even knowing it. And when I drank from her the second time, I was wild. Steffan, I thought about drinking her dry…to death.” “What? You never said anything to us about that!” “Not something I like to recall.” Rhys looked down and shook off the memory. “I assumed that her accepting me as a vampire was the part that was going to be the most difficult.” Rhys chuckled. “Oh, it’ll still be tricky. Now, the way I had to do it was not very ideal. My woman was stubborn. I think it will be easier on both of you if it’s not thrown at her all at once. Allow clues to pass in a progression.

106

Maya DeLeina

Don’t rush it. She’ll start questioning things in her mind. Main thing to understand here is that a strong bond can overcome any fear of the unknown she has in you. I didn’t know that back then, but I know it now. Once you see it in her eyes, when love outweighs the doubt—you spring it on her.” “What do you think I should let her see first?” Steffan asked with a childlike enthusiasm. Rhys deliberated for a moment. “The black blood.” Rhys nodded emphatically. “Definitely the black blood. Cut yourself ‘accidentally.’ Let her somehow see the different blood you carry in your veins. Don’t be gushing out blood or anything. You don’t want her to be disgusted by it. Again, just do enough, a hint, just a little for her to question it in her mind.” “All right. What else?” Steffan asked. “Well, even though this will hurt, you should eat something without being on Consumption. Try something like pudding or crème brulee, something that’s a soft consistency. Don’t eat meat or anything like that, or your body will no doubt expel it. A violent bout of hurling will be a definite turnoff.” “I’m thinking the convulsions from not being on Consumption will not be very appealing either,” Steffan said, “and will probably scare her to death.” Rhys shrugged. “Well of course you don’t want to do this until you’ve bonded for awhile with her, till you think you have her. Look, this way, you let another clue pass that something is definitely not quite right with you, and you can test the whole Florence Nightingale effect—see if she takes care of you even while being scared out of her wits. Then you know, without a doubt, that you have her.” Steffan scrunched his face and shook his head. “I don’t know. I may skip that one. I just don’t think I would want to put her through that. What about the sun? Would I need to show a hint of that?” “Are you kidding? You know what our burnt skin smells like. Talk about ruining the moment with that stench!” “True,” Steffan commented. “Well, I’ll think of other subtle things I can do. Hopefully it won’t be as hard as it was with Brynne. Someday, I want Anya to know about what happened with the two of you.” Rhys rolled his eyes. “Indeed a story for another time.”

Veil of Seduction

107

Steffan squinted mischievously. “You know, in all this time, I never asked how you exactly revealed yourself as a vampire to Brynne.” “I had to resort to the scary stuff to convince her. You know how stubborn she was.” “Ah yes, hence her bestowed name.” Steffan chuckled. Rhys smiled in reflection. “Though I must admit, I loved her human name. Rain. It was so simple. Beautiful. I wonder what Anya’s name will be?” Steffan remarked, his last expression sounding like reflection rather than a statement. “So when you say the scary stuff, how scary are we talking?” “I manifested in front of her. It would’ve scared the crap out of anyone else, but no…” Rhys drew out and emphasized his last word before continuing. “She thought it was an optical illusion. Then I drove down the mountain with no lights one night. Brynne? She didn’t flinch a muscle in the passenger seat. She said that I must’ve installed an infrared camera in my dash to see.” Rhys smiled. “That woman made me work so hard to prove I was a vampire.” “So what was it that convinced her?” Steffan asked. “I had to resort to the special stuff.” “No, you didn’t!” Rhys nodded slyly in confirmation. “I sure did. I dreamscaped with her and did cloaked manifestations in her bedroom. But trust me, I didn’t break any of our laws and creeds during this. I never touched her inappropriately while I was invisible to her human eyes.” Rhys paused and raised an eyebrow. “Of course, I waited till I had consent.” “Good. But how did that convince her?” “She had this security camera in the dog’s bedroom. I knew she would be watching the camera at work, so I did a cloaked manifestation in the room and kept letting my image be revealed here and there.” “My word! You could’ve given her a heart attack!” “Of course not! Not my Brynne. But I know she started to believe me, just a little bit, at that point. But honestly, it was the dreamscapes that finally did it for her.” Steffan smiled. “Looks as if I have a lot to face.”

108

Maya DeLeina

“What happened between Brynne and I may not happen with you and Anya. All I can say is to listen to what your heart is telling you and look into hers for the answers.” Steffan nodded in understanding. “Thanks, Rhys. I appreciate this.” Steffan and Rhys rose from the bench and made their way out of the maze in silence, contemplating the moment. “There is one last thing.” Rhys stopped for moment. “There will be no question about the immediate attraction you both will have for each other. Your connection will unfold and continue to be stronger the longer you two are with each other. Both of you, your predetermined path, it’s already been paved. It is all up to you Steffan, as the maker of the claim, to steer the two of you down this road, no deviation from the path.” As Steffan and Rhys emerged from the gardens, Steffan was shocked to see Rhys’s vehicle in the driveway with the driver’s side door wide open. The entire family stood around the vehicle to see Steffan off on his quest to find Anya. Steffan looked at Rhys in astonishment. Rhys dangled the keys in front of him as he nodded in confirmation. “Really? But you won’t let anyone near this thing. Why?” “Well, I can’t see you taking Anya out on any one of your crotch rockets. I hear she’s partial to skirts.” Steffan walked over to Rhys and hugged him. “Thanks, I’ll take care of her, not a scratch.” “I hope that’s a reference to my vehicle and not just Anya,” said Rhys as he placed the keys in Steffan’s hands. “People in this town, they don’t particularly appreciate the exquisiteness of this masterpiece or the bling I put into it. And it is not a she, by the way. Please be mindful of where you park Humphrey.” Steffan looked back at Rhys as he held open the door. “Shit, tell me you didn’t name this thing. That’s disturbing!” Steffan climbed into the vehicle and turned the key. The engine roared as if releasing a cage of wild animals. He reached inside his coat pocket and retrieved his black sunglasses. As he slid the shades over his eyes, he engaged the sunroof, allowing the wind and sun to spill all around him. Steffan looked over his shoulder and smiled

Veil of Seduction

109

at the contents the family packed in the backseat, his violin and an extra pair of clothes. Steffan released the break and maneuvered the Hummer down the driveway. The unyielding tires were heavy on the pavement, echoing a scrunching vibrato as the low growl of the engine pierced the tranquility of the gardens. As Steffan made his way to the street, he stopped. He looked in the rearview mirror and waved to his family that stood outside the castle. Steffan traveled down the road, sheathed in the indulgence of pure masculinity. The vehicle had an assuming presence to it, a bravado that he wasn’t entirely comfortable with. Typically, his instincts had always led him to be rather inconspicuous, careful to only leave a faintness of his presence wherever he went in public. This would present him with the complete opposite. But the thought of providing Anya the necessary protection that his array of motorcycles couldn’t afford was an overriding comfort. “Humphrey the Hummer,” Steffan thought to himself as he chuckled at Rhys’s obsession with the tanklike vehicle. **** “Where is he going? Why all the hoopla?” Ryan finally asked Eilian and Rhys as Steffan made his way from the driveway to the crescent-shaped road. “OMG! Really?” Rhys barked in a perturbed tone. Curiously, Ryan assessed Rhys. Ryan knew Rhys was over a century old, yet his way of speaking didn’t quite fit his expectation, nor did it suit the romantic innuendo his heavy Greek accent flared off. His dialogue was all modern, a tad vogue and trendy for his taste. But it sparked youthfulness that transcended his years and did wonders in softening his brooding features. Rhys continued in a perturbed tone, “Haven’t you heard about the mate match Steffan made with the human who moved in down the road? He’s going off to finally meet her.” “I’ve been busy with my house and entertaining women. It’s amazing. Woman can’t seem to say no to me,” said Ryan.

110

Maya DeLeina

“Wow, if something doesn’t involve you, you really aren’t interested,” said Rhys, his expression riddled with an obvious distaste for Ryan. “Basically, yeah. I mean, why should I be interested in Steffan’s mate?” Ryan shot back at Rhys. Rhys angrily shouted, “As a general part of caring about someone else other than you, that’s why! Steffan has waited a long time to find his mate. We’re all happy for him. Ryan, we’re family here, we take care of each other. One for all and all for one.” Ryan looked at Rhys, baffled. “Where did I hear that before?” Anger boiled in the two men with their heated exchange. Eilian spoke, easing the tension in his tone, “Ryan, tomorrow will be your day. In fact, when Vaughn gets here with the limousine, the entire family will be getting down to business, just for you.” “Limousine? What’s going on?” asked Ryan. “You’ll see. It’s all for your reintroduction tomorrow,” replied Eilian. “I still don’t know why it has to be this way. I’ll be careful. Why do I have to spend most of my time working from home and only doing occasional visits to the new Denver office? I loved my office in the Springs,” Ryan said roughly. “We’ve gone over this. While we’re taking care of the people we knew you came in contact with, there may be some people that we don’t know of around your office and here that you will not remember. We just want you to limit the chances of being unprepared and running into someone we didn’t enthrall,” said Eilian. “Look, when you were turned, we feared the family was going to have to move since you were so familiar in your community. Steffan has worked hard in executing this plan to make you happy and keep the family intact. With what we’re about to do, you can go out there and be reintroduced. And the family can remain here for the next few years. In return, Steffan imposed a few limitations to make sure we’re all safe from being discovered. Seems like we have to go over everything with you once again to assure you don’t fuck things up,” Rhys added. Ryan shot Rhys an angry glance. “You really don’t like me, do you?” “Let’s put it this way. Ever notice how you come across somebody once in a while that you shouldn’t have fucked with? That’s me,” Rhys said as he stepped closer to Ryan, breaking the barrier of his personal space.

Veil of Seduction

111

“Okay, that! I know I heard that line before!” Ryan said in agitation. “And be glad I wasn’t the one who got to you first,” Rhys added. He looked down at Ryan, chock-full of annoyance. Rhys stood completely menacing and intimidating. Ryan retreated from his brute rival, turning his back to Rhys and Eilian. Sighing, Eilian changed the subject as the last glimpse of the Hummer faded out of sight. “I wonder how long it will take for Steffan to claim Anya.” Ryan turned around and shot a puzzled look at Eilian and Rhys. “Did you just say Anya?” **** Steffan continued to make his way down the mountain with the sunroof completely drawn, taking pleasure in the sensation the warm sunshine and the crisp mountain air fusion created on his skin. His bangs swept freely around his face as his black wrap shades safely shielded his eyes. It was a beautiful spring day. The snow-peaked mountains radiated off the backdrop of the deepturquoise sky. With each turn, changes in the landscape amazed Steffan. Vibrant color palettes in the earth, foliage, and sky unleashed their splendor just for his eyes. He wondered what the change in scenery would bring by mid-July, when the snow would completely melt from the peaks. In complete astonishment, he wondered how many different spectrums of the same color existed. He wanted to experience it all. He ran through landscape visions of different seasons in his mind and caught his breath. Autumn. His pulse quickened. I’ve ever seen fall before. Up until the moment he’d found Anya, he’d existed only within the confines of shadows and darkness. In his human existence, the fleeting recollections of color were the shades of death and destruction. The darkened trenches, the black mud of the marshlands, the gray ash, and blood were the only landscape of shades that suspended in his mind. Even the vibrancy of blood was muted. There was no striking red. The blood he knew spilled in hues of black and gray. Steffan shook off the harsh recollection and focused on the beauty that surrounded him and the destiny he was about to fulfill.

112

Maya DeLeina

The vehicle rounded the last curve of the mountain’s switchback. The route that lay ahead would lead him directly to her. Steffan’s demeanor turned edgy as he adjusted in his seat. The time was closing in. She was drawing near. The anticipation of this exact moment had tormented him since his turning in 1917. The feeling churning inside of him couldn’t be described. It was a divergence—an eternity’s worth of hope, despair, solitude, need, sacrifice, anticipation and love, all brewing inside one man. He was a bundle of nerves. What would be the first exchange with someone you’ve waited your entire life for? Steffan crossed the bridge that led to the downtown warehouse district. Rampant eagerness surged through his veins as he neared Anya’s studio. In the rearview mirror, he caught a glimpse of the majestic peak. It was amazing. No matter how many times he gazed at the peak since being safely protected by Defender, the mountain range would always exude a different mood. One day, it would be an ominous presence. Eerie mist suspended in its surroundings would summon apprehension, anxiety, serve as a warning. On other days, the glow of the purple and pink hues would summon tranquility and inspire spiritual connections. And on days like this, the vibrancy of blue and green radiance would incite pure happiness and fulfillment. He beamed ear to ear. Fitting for the day. He slowed the vehicle to a crawl and stopped. He leaned forward into the steering column to examine the building. This is it. Steffan looked at the adjacent parking lot next to the studio. Situated in a parking stall was a SUV with the plates CELLIST. Steffan let out a smile as he carefully guided Rhys’s vehicle in the stall directly in front of what could only be Anya’s vehicle. Steffan glanced at his wristwatch as he stepped out of the vehicle. 3:42 p.m. Perfect. Her 3:00 p.m. appointment was a no-show. If she was anything like him, she would be seizing the opportunity to satisfy her passion for her music. He

Veil of Seduction

113

longed to hear the beauty she would create without inhibition, without reserve. Steffan walked toward the building. The gravel from the parking lot crushed under his shoes as he gazed up to examine the warehouse’s exterior. The warehouse had been transformed into commercial lofts over a decade ago, but a faded sign etched on the side of the brick exterior remained as a tribute to the building’s past, once serving as a fabrication plant for mining tools during the city’s gold rush era. Steffan stood at the threshold, pausing to take a deep breath in and prepare for the moment that lay ahead. He pushed opened the substantial metal door and made his way into the building’s entry. Directly in front of him was the elevator access to the businesses. To the left of the entry lay the stairs and emergency access. The tenant directory was displayed on the exposed brick wall on the right. The large building housed only three tenants—a dance studio, a textile design company, and Anya’s Heartstring studio. Steffan opted for the elevator access to carry him on the last leg of his journey to Anya. The elevator door opened, and a sudden flood of music permeated the air. The music was laced with competing rhythms and styles. Steffan walked down the hall as the muffled electronic beats resonated from the dance studio behind its closed metal door on the right-hand side of the hall. The pulsating bass grew faint as he delved deeper into the hall. Steffan passed the textile design company’s entry on the left, and the dark resonance of a lone cello triumphed over the remnants of chaotic mechanical beats from the dance studio. Steffan stopped in his tracks. The melody was haunting, stirring. She played with such beautiful emotion. It was Anya’s fingers gracing the strings, her legs stabilizing the cello and her soul pouring out with each note. He quivered with excitement. The metal sliding door that led to her was slightly open and lay just footsteps away. He wanted to rush through the door, but his body couldn’t bring himself to enter just yet. He started to shake as her music penetrated his soul. He propped his back against the brick wall next to the open door and closed his eyes, losing himself in the singing quality of her instrument.

114

Maya DeLeina

He had waited his entire existence for this moment. And now that it was here, it felt as if he was floating through the motions, in a dream. The significance of it all crushed down on him. As he calmed his nerves, the anticipation churned and erupted in him. He couldn’t take it anymore, he had to see her, take in her full image. “Control,” he whispered to himself, remembering the words Rhys had spoke to him earlier. Steffan backed off the wall and stepped into the doorway. He slowly removed his shades and let the surroundings reveal themselves. Large concrete columns lined the long studio, stabilizing the ceiling above. Exposed duct work, utility pipes, and intricate iron beams suspended from above. An expanse of industrial, grid-patterned windows lined the outer wall of the building. And there she was. Her warmth and brilliance ascended above the dull, cold atmosphere that inundated the industrial setting. Her delicious scent saturated the air. His eyes fought for clarity as the fragmented images that burned in his mind since the discovery of their connection were being pieced together in front of him like a 3-D puzzle. The time was here. The redundant countdown of his internal clock, the ache of solitude, they all stopped in an instant. Destiny’s weave of chance, fate, resolve, and longing all converged in this moment. The overflow of emotion took him by surprise, and he had to steady himself against the doorframe. She sat facing him at the end of the long room. Her legs wrapped around the cello and were steadied by flesh-tone high heels. Her fingers caressed the strings as her deep, slow stokes of the bow infused sensuality in the simplistic movement. Her eyes were closed, allowing her music to flow through her body. Her long skirt was hiked up above her knees, allowing her unhampered access to the instrument. The skirt’s material pooled between her legs. The sun elongated its reach through the windows, and the rays highlighted every contour of her legs and exposed thigh. How he longed for nothing more than to be the cello. Random images of their passionate lovemaking that flooded his dream cycles played like a movie in his head. He grew painfully hard in an instant. His pants strained from his engorged shaft.

Veil of Seduction

115

“Please, control, Steffan. Not now,” he scoffed himself. But, it was too late. She opened her eyes. A look of shock washed over her. Steffan’s gaze met hers. Slowly, her expression transformed into one of reverence. He stood there speechless and immobile, with a pronounced bulge in his pants.

116

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Ten The sound of her bow striking the hardwood floor echoed through the studio. “Excuse me, I’m so sorry,” Anya said as she tried to steady her nerves. “I guess I didn’t hear you come in.” My god, is he handsome. The mysterious man didn’t murmur a word. Feeling awkward in his silence, she searched for something to say. “Well, I’m guessing that you’re either very late or a little early for your lesson.” She was careful not to make eye contact for too long. Surely he would see right through her, the instant attraction to him, even in the distance between them in the room. After another silent pause, he responded quietly, “I’m both, actually. I’m yours.” “I’m sorry. I didn’t catch what you said.” He cleared his throat and spoke up, “I mean…I’m your 3:00-6:00 p.m. lesson. I apologize for being delayed.” Was her mind playing tricks on her or did he have the most delicious accent like her dream? Maybe it was the acoustics in the room morphing his voice into what she wanted to hear. “When your relative called, I just assumed it was a three-hour booking for three students. I typically do a one hour session, especially for beginners.” Three hours? How can I make it through professionally for even one hour alone with this man? He moved slowly into the room, not taking his eyes off of her for a second. Following his lead, she stood and leaned the cello against the wall.

Veil of Seduction

117

This time, she didn’t fight her need to gaze intently at him. She made her way to him, not taking her eyes off of his. Anya felt her long skirt gracefully sway in a bell-like motion as she moved. The sensation of the silk and lace material against her bare legs made her feel sexy. And as she tucked a lock of her hair behind her ear, she saw his eyes do a quick scan of her body. Then he blinked as if he had just looked directly at the sun. It made her wonder if her Indian inspired attire that seemed to accentuate her curves in all the right spots, was sexy to him as well. But he said nothing. He remained eerily, yet deliciously, silent. As she drew nearer to him, she felt herself grow weak in the knees and commanded herself to regain composure. She returned the gesture and scanned him from head to toe, making sure not to leave one inch unappreciated. He completely towered over her petite frame. His gray shirt complimented his silver eyes. Black, long-swept bangs framed his chiseled face. His collar lay open, affording her the beginning view of a well-defined chest, lightly pebbled with black hair. His shirt was neatly tucked in his pants and outlined the toned male physique that lay hidden under the confines of his clothes. He was clean shaven but still remained rugged, a delicious bad boy image down to his core. His presence exuded power, masculinity, and wild sensuality. Yet he moved fluently, with an unworldly elegance and a hint of nobility. She returned to them once again, the eyes. Luring and decadent, they called to her without speaking, warmed her without touch. They were mesmerizing pools of silver seduction, allowing her to drown in lust as he held her evaluating gaze. Her mouth went dry, her palms warmed with moisture. Never before had she seen such a piercing and captivating stare. She was mistaken in her earlier assessment of him. He wasn’t handsome at all, he was absolutely breathtaking. “I’m Anya DeVera, and you are…?” Anya held out her hand to greet him as she suddenly got a whiff of his scent. All her efforts for composure and restraint escaped her. Her legs gave out from under her.

118

Maya DeLeina

He moved quickly to catch her. “Anya!” Anya stared up at him, searching his eyes as he cradled her in his masculine arms. An ache shot through her heart. It was the same scent of the man who haunted her dreams. It was the same accent and voice that pierced her soul. How could this be happening? Who is this man? “Anya?” He searched her eyes as he gently brushed back her hair. “Say something!” “I’m fine. Just a little dizzy. And a lot embarrassed,” Anya said as she remained fixated on his eyes. He pulled her in closer to his body. “What happened?” Anya tried to think fast for an explanation. She couldn’t very well tell him that she would give anything to have him take her right there in the middle of the studio. “Shoes,” she said. “My shoes, I just lost my footing, that’s all.” “You think you can stand?” “I think so.” In one flowing move, he lifted her straight off the ground, cradled in his arms. As he stood tall, he released her legs and rotated her body so she was up against the side of his chest. Her legs dangled below her, unable to touch the floor. She took a deep breath in and let his scent envelope her. With one arm secured around her waist, he slowly slid her down the length of his body, along his outstretched leg until her feet touched the floor. Safely placing her on the ground and keeping a steady hold of her waist, he asked, “Good?” “Yes, thank you,” Anya replied. **** “Anya, I’m Steffan, Steffan Matthews.” There is no room for games here. For almost a century, he had searched for her. He was not going to waste any more time by skirting around the issue. He needed her. She needed him. They needed each other.

Veil of Seduction

119

He wanted to tell her everything in this moment, claim her now, and abandon all the words of advice from Rhys. “Anya, I live in Ambrose Heights. I made the arrangement for lessons…so I could meet you. Truth is, ever since you moved in, I felt a connection to you that I can’t quite explain.” Steffan inserted that little white lie at the end. Of course, it could be explained, but he couldn’t bring himself to reveal any of that. Not now at least. “You mean you paid for me to spend time with you? For a month? What kind of services do you think I offer here?” Anya held her head as if nausea had struck her suddenly. “I think I need to sit down.” Anya headed for the sitting area that sat tucked away in the far corner of the studio. Ornate lanterns with intricate metal relief carvings suspended from the utility pipes above and hung low in varying length around a gold-leaf table. Around the table sat oversized, embellished floor pillows. A hand-carved screen sectioned off the area from the rest of the studio. Steffan followed Anya, suddenly realizing the misconception in his explanation. “No, Anya, I am not paying for you. I don’t mean for it to sound like that. I mean, I did pay for your time. B–But it was strictly to compensate you, for adjusting your schedule with your existing students to accommodate my time frame. You know, just in case you couldn’t successfully reschedule them?” Steffan stumbled on his words and drifted from his usual charismatic and poised presence. Anya sat on the floor pillow and bent her knees, bringing them close to her chest as she faced Steffan. “Well, thank you for your consideration. But, it still sounds like you were paying just to meet me. Are you even interested in cello lessons at all?” Steffan sported a hearty grin as he took a seat on a floor pillow. He sat facing Anya. He eased into a comfortable position. “Actually, I’m very skilled at the violin and always wanted a cello partner. I’ve composed some pieces that would be complimented by a cello. You play…eloquently.” Anya’s smile lit up her face. Steffan reached out to cup her hands as they folded around her legs. “Anya, I know I this may seem strange. In fact, I meant to be here on time, but I agonized over this and needed more time before I walked into this

120

Maya DeLeina

room. I thought I was prepared. I had it all played out in my head. I need time to know what to do, what to say to you. I had already thought of ways I could come here and pretend I have no clue about playing an instrument or reading music, to go along with this charade. But I just couldn’t do it. I wanted you to know exactly why I’m here, even if it sounds creepy. I don’t want to play games.” “Good. I don’t like to play games either.” “Anya, I’ve seen you before I met you.” Anya’s body stiffened in response. “Wait, hear me out.” Steffan paused. “The day when you moved into Ambrose Heights and you pulled up to my driveway…” “Oh my god, you knew I was there? You saw me? You’re the guy who lives in the castle?” Anya released her hands from Steffan’s hold and placed them over her mouth in sheer embarrassment. “Yes, I live there. Eilian, my brother, he saw you in my driveway. I was in the house. I never saw you, but I felt you, Anya. I felt your presence as you walked up the driveway.” Steffan leaned in and cupped her chin delicately with his hand. “After you left, brief images of you rolled in my mind. I saw your hair, your eyes, and your skin. I even heard your voice and could smell your perfume. And…” Steffan paused, unsure if he would frighten Anya with his next statement. He released her chin and spoke. “…that tattoo on your shoulder. If I’m not mistaken, I believe it’s the Om symbol.” Anya’s face turned pale. You’re scaring her, he thought as he fought to refine his revelation to her. “And since that time, you’ve been with me every day. I dream of you at night and think of you during the day. All of this and I never met you before. I never experienced anything like this. I found out that you teach here and work at Mystic’s Mirth, and from then on, I’ve been working up the courage and the strength to come and meet you. That’s why I’m here.” Steffan searched for a reaction from Anya. Please don’t get scared. Please don’t run. Please trust me. Anya shifted her body toward Steffan and kneeled between his legs. She reached for the buttons on his shirt. One by one, she slowly undid them as she remained fixated on his eyes.

Veil of Seduction

121

“No!” Steffan caught her hand and stopped her movement.” I want to. Believe me. I want nothing more than to be with you, but I didn’t come here for that. I came here to understand this connection I have to you.” “No, you don’t understand. I need to see something right now. I need to see what’s on your left bicep and right shoulder.” “My tattoos? How did you know?” Anya gasped as she ripped at the buttons and tore Steffan’s shirt open, working the material down his arm. There it was. Steffan’s dark and delicious tattoos were on clear display. Anya traced the design with her fingertips as tears welled in her eyes. She retreated back to her floor pillow and pulled her knees up tight into her chest. “I dream of you too! Every time I close my eyes, since that day I moved into Ambrose Heights, I dreamt of you! On this very afternoon, before I came here! What the hell is going on?” Steffan leaned into Anya. He parted her knees and slid his body onto her floor pillow, placing her legs on either side of his. She bent her knees over the top of his thighs. He cupped her knees with his palms. “It’s me that you dream about, you’re sure?” Steffan questioned, elation spreading like wildfire through his veins. His smile was unreserved in the pureness of his emotional reaction. Steffan knew a human would have vivid dreams of their mate after they met, but never recalled a case of dreams before the fated human and vampire met. “Yes. I saw you. All of you. Well, except your face. But, I saw your tattoos. I heard your voice. I knew your accent. And I too, held your scent. The dreams are very sensual.” Anya reached for his hands and slid her hands into his. “And, now you’re here. How is this possible? I don’t know you. You don’t know me.” Anya’s hands were smooth and inviting. Her fingers slowly traced his palm with a feather-like touch. Feeling her, even as gentle and reserved it was, overwhelmed him. It was like he was on a roller coaster that had just plunged from its highest peak. “Anya, I was drawn to you. You were the only thing that consumed me this past month. I dreamt of touching you.” Steffan paused and leaned in closer to her. His breath was a little deeper, a little hotter. “I dreamt of making love to you.”

122

Maya DeLeina

Steffan suddenly moved, slipping his thighs under Anya. He lifted her slowly. Anya responded to his movement and straddled his hips, wrapping her legs behind him. “And now, I find out you were drawn to me as well. You were dreaming of me in the same way. I don’t know what’s going on, but I don’t want to ignore it. I will not ignore this.” “Neither will I,” said Anya. Steffan looked into Anya’s deep-brown, almond-shaped eyes. Her tears still fell, but he could see the need and desire settling in her gaze. At once, he satisfied the burning hunger and placed his lips against hers. The kiss was gentle. They took their time. It was smooth, hot, wet—the first luscious exploration between lovers. She parted her lips as he slipped his tongue gently into her mouth. She responded with the same motion. Their tongues glided over each other, an assessment of each other’s touch, taste, and response. Rhythmically, they broke for air and continued their descent of discovery in each other. The kiss grew intensely passionate. Anya whimpered in delight as Steffan released deep, masculine moans in her mouth. Deeper they fell into each other, losing all sense of reality. The intensity of the kiss had Steffan’s body tingling with overwhelming sensations. His embrace grew more needful. He pulled her even closer into his body. One hand cupped the back of her head as the other held on to her, cupping her buttocks. Anya’s whimpers turned into a sexy moan as Steffan purposely pushed his crotch harder against her. She rocked her hips slowly against his swollen cock. Anya ground herself into Steffan. He cupped her ass with both hands. His needful fingers dug into her flesh, urging her to rock harder and faster on top of him. He kissed her deeper than ever before. His heartbeat pounded like a drum. Then suddenly, he broke their hypnotic movements. “Anya,” Steffan said with a ragged breath. “Anya, we need to stop.” If there was ever a moment that he longed to be void of any sexual pull on a human female, it was now. If there was ever a time he needed to suppress his urge to take complete possession of a human female, it was, irrefutably, at this moment. “No, Steffan, I want you so badly. I ache for you.” Anya swiveled her hips in a circular motion and leaned back as she perched her hands behind her on Steffan’s thighs.

Veil of Seduction

123

His fingers dug back into her flesh, claiming each side of her hips. Round and round, Anya moved in a circular dance over his crotch. Steffan looked up at her and motioned her to her knees. With her knees firmly planted on each side of his hips, he guided her in an up-and-down movement. Anya reached behind and laced her fingers around each heel of her stilettos and arched her back. She threw her head back and hair cascaded down to the floor. His fingers dug even further, commanding her hips to dive deeper into his lap. “Please, Steffan. Please. I want this.” “Anya!” Steffan struggled for breath. “Anya!” Steffan was wrapped in absolute rapture. His gaze centered on Anya. He tore the shirt from his body. He cupped her ass and rose from the floor pillows with a sense of urgency. Anya looked at Steffan as if captivated by his power. She wrapped her legs around his waist. He maneuvered his hand between their bodies in search of his release. He struggled to unzip his pants, undo his belt, and unbutton the trousers with one free hand, but his attempt proved to be successful and the trousers went sailing down his legs. He sat back onto the floor pillows, urging Anya to grind deeper against him. All that separated their flesh was her moistened panties and his thin cotton briefs. Steffan felt his entire shaft gliding underneath her heat. “Steffan, I want you. I want you to take me.” She took Steffan’s hand and cupped her breast. “It’s been too long,” she whispered. “I waited all my life for you, Anya. You don’t know how much I want to claim you right here, right now.” “Steffan, do to me as you’ve done in your dreams.” Steffan shook with anticipation and longing to claim his mate. His ancient, black blood pulsed through his veins, rousing his most primal and raw instinct. Flesh tore from his gumline as his razor-sharp incisors ascended. Steffan ran his tongue along his teeth, slicing the fleshy tissue. The metallic tang of his blood broke the ecstasy of the moment. Steffan’s eyes opened. He mustered everything in his power and conscience to stop. Out of fear, and not trusting his own self-control, he needed to stop. The desire to claim Anya at this very moment was intolerable. Rhys had been right.

124

Maya DeLeina

No amount of studying human-vampire mates in the bloodline reports could’ve prepared him for this. “Anya, I want to. God, believe me, I want to. But I didn’t intend for this for on our first meeting. I don’t know how much longer I can hold on. You’re killing me. We need to stop, Anya!” “No! Oh my god, Steffan, it’s too much. I can’t…I–I’m so close. I’m gonna…” Anya started to shake on top of him as she grabbed his face and stared intently into his eyes. “Steffan, I’m gonna come! Look at what you’re doing to me!” “Oh god! Come for me! Let me see you. Let me hear you!” Steffan blurted out with a jagged breath. He was stunned that he’d brought her to the height of pleasure without a single touch of his hand, exploration of his fingers, swipe of his tongue, or a stroke of his cock. She remained transfixed on his stare. Steffan watched her as she rhythmically stroked herself against his hardness. Her eyes suddenly widened. She gasped for breath, as if someone was choking the life out of her. She shuddered on top of him. “Steffan,” she cried out. Seeing Anya in complete ecstasy, hearing his name escape her lips amidst her pleasure, robbed Steffan of all his defenses. He lost the raging battle with willpower and self-control. “Anya, don’t stop, please keep grinding on me,” he whimpered in sharp, frayed breaths. Steffan fisted strands of her long hair with both hands as he forcefully ground into her. “Look at me, Anya. Do not take your eyes off of mine.” Steffan’s face strained. Anya’s eyes looked back at him with a devouring stare. Waves of pleasure crested in him. “Anya, I’m coming!” Steffan let out a long moan as he exploded in his briefs beneath her. Anya remained on his lap, her legs wrapped tight around him as his eruption slowed and came to a stop. Slowly, she backed from Steffan’s. Still regaining control of his breath, Steffan flashed a big grin as he saw Anya’s face. “I can’t believe this!” Steffan said joyfully as he removed her pinky from the clenches of her teeth. “Bad habit.” Anya said with a slight look of embarrassment.

Veil of Seduction

125

“Funny, it’s mine, too. It’s pretty disgusting if you think about it.” Steffan laughed as he placed her pinky finger between his teeth and teasingly bit down. “You do this, too?” Anya said in delight as Steffan released his clench on her finger and started kissing her from her hand and up her arm. “My husband hates when I do that.” Steffan’s heart sank as he stopped and looked into her eyes. “Husband? Anya, you’re married?” Anya quickly corrected herself. “Oh no, I’m sorry. I am a widow. I meant it in a past tense.” Steffan shook his head, relieved that Anya had confirmed Eilian’s report on her widow status. “I am sorry, Anya.” He brushed back her hair and caressed her face with the back of his hand. Steffan searched her eyes. She looked as if she wanted to tell him more, but she remained silent. Anya dismounted and lay sideways on the floor pillows alongside him, changing the subject quickly. “I don’t know what is with me. Steffan, I need you to know that I do not do this. I’m usually very reserved. I don’t know you, you don’t know me. I have no idea why you spark something in me to give in, why I say those things to you. It’s like I am a different person with you.” It’s because I’m a vampire and you are my fated mate, Steffan imagined himself blurting out. Instead, Steffan lay back. Propping his head up with his elbow, he faced Anya and placed his other hand on her hip. “This was never supposed to happen. Anya, you must know that this wasn’t my intention. I want us to be more than just sex. We need to work on our control with each other.” “You want it to be more than just sex? Where are you from? How were you raised? I’ve never met a man who could stop like that in the heat of passion.” “I’m far from dignified, Anya. You terrify me. It took everything in me not to take you.” “I terrify you? You terrify me. My ability to lose myself in you is so effortless and natural. You’re so familiar to me.” Anya traced her finger around his lips.

126

Maya DeLeina

“There is no denying that our sexual attraction to one another is strong. But I think we owe it to ourselves to find out how deep our other connections run, why we were being drawn to each other in the first place.” Steffan caught her fingers and lightly planted his kisses on them. “I agree,” Anya stated. “Do you think we’re the first couple to do what we just did? I mean to have an orgasm without flesh to flesh contact, without intercourse, did you ever have that before?” “I can say that this is a first for me. Wait! Actually, no. There was the time when you were in my driveway.” Anya sat up. “Wait, are you saying you had an orgasm the day I was outside your house?” “Yes. Eilian said you looked if you were going into seizure in the driveway just as I was…’’ Steffan trailed off as he sat up in realization of the moment. “That’s exactly what I was experiencing in your driveway! Seems we both had it at the same time,” Anya said, shaking her head. “I had no idea.” Steffan reached up to caress her face. “Anya, do you have any plans for this evening?” “Yes. I am spending it with you. Why don’t you clean up in the bathroom, and I’ll make us some tea. You like chai?” “My favorite.” Steffan gathered his trousers around his waist in attempt to pull the material of the pants away from his soaked briefs and reached for his shirt. “And Steffan?” “Yes, Anya?” “You wouldn’t have, by chance, brought your violin with you today, did you? I mean, after all, you are here for music lessons, correct?” “I am so glad you asked. I’ll retrieve it from the car along with a pair of jeans I think I left in the backseat.” Steffan turned to head toward the door. “One more thing…” said Anya as Steffan turned back to look at her. “Seeing that it’s warm out, maybe you don’t really need the shirt?” Steffan smiled and let the shirt drop to the ground in an instant. ****

Veil of Seduction

127

Steffan stood in nature’s spotlight as the last few rays of the sunset spilled through the windows. He played a collection of self-composed music for Anya. He stood tall, bare chested, with his violin tucked firmly under his chin. Anya watched Steffan, her eyes shining in complete veneration. Darkness fell, and Steffan lit the candles in the hanging lanterns. It was his turn to watch Anya. He sat on the floor, mesmerized by each movement. The Moroccan motif designs glowed, projecting delicately on Anya’s body. She sat in her chair, her skirt high on her thigh and her long, smooth legs molding around the cello. Steffan was entranced, propped up on one elbow as he spread out on the floor pillows. He admired the beauty that she was and the beauty she was creating. Their musical chemistry radiated in absolute harmony. They were lost in conversation, the hours passing like seconds. Without any effort, they spoke and shared as if they were longtime friends. And when they played in unison, their music was enchanting. They were two dynamic resonances, dominant on their own, yet blending effortlessly, complimenting each other with sweet magic. As they retired their instruments, Steffan calculated that he had two hours left on Consumption and suggested they order food, knowing Anya would be famished. They decided on Chinese and had it delivered to the studio. Anya sat between Steffan’s legs on the floor pillows, her back against his bare chest, feeding directly from the take-out cartons, no utensils needed. The sensuality of feeding each other by the candlelight was a first-time experience for both of them. Their tools of seduction were carefully selected—noodles, egg rolls, and dumplings. Steffan knew neither one of them would ever look at Chinese food quite the same ever again. At the end of their meal, Steffan reached in the bag to retrieve their fortune cookies. “They only put one in here,” he said with disappointment as he pulled out the cookie that was wrapped in a simple plastic bag. “Then this will be for the two of us,” said Anya. Steffan broke open the cookie and laid the two broken pieces and the small white paper in his hand. He fed one half to Anya as she fed him the

128

Maya DeLeina

other. Anya turned over the white paper as they both leaned in to read it together. Those who have love and happiness, have wealth beyond measure Anya looked over her shoulder at Steffan. “I will have to agree with that,” Steffan said. “As do I,” replied Anya. Steffan bowed his head to Anya’s shoulder and planted a kiss. **** Steffan stood behind Anya as she locked the outside door to the building. They walked hand in hand to the parking lot. Anya took a long, deep breath and looked up at the sky. “Such a nice evening out. And tomorrow is supposed to be beautiful as well. How would you feel about doing an outside session tomorrow?” Steffan’s mind raced. She was suggesting an outdoor activity. He would have to calculate the time perfectly to assure coverage with the injections. He would not have the safety of a darkened corner of a building to shield him if he didn’t plan everything well. “How early are you thinking?” “Well, I already promised Michelle I would work until 2:00 p.m. tomorrow, so sometime shortly thereafter?” Steffan calculated the time. 8:00 p.m. deadline. He would be fine. But the long days of summer were fast approaching. A pang ignited in his stomach. He knew he wouldn’t be able to keep the pretense going for very long and choosing to stay away from Anya was not an option. She would have to know who he really was, what he really was, soon. “Perfect. Why don’t I have Vaughn drive you into town in the morning, and I’ll pick you up at the shop after your shift? I would drop you off in the morning myself, but I’m working at that time.” “Not a problem. Are you sure Vaughn won’t mind?” “Of course not.” “Great. Then you can meet Michelle tomorrow!” Michelle. The mere mention of her name hit Steffan like a speeding train. He’d forgotten to calculate her into the equation.

Veil of Seduction

129

How close did her ties to Anya run? Was she just an employer? Was she a close friend? Did she remember him? The questions fired in Steffan’s mind, making him sick to his stomach. How to effectively deal with her would undeniably take careful planning and precise timing. But if there was a silver lining to be had, tomorrow could at least answer the question that weighed on his mind about Michelle Ocsil. “I’ll race you up the mountain,” Steffan said jokingly as he opened the door of the SUV for Anya. Anya slid into the driver seat. “Race me? Looks like you could roll right over me and my Lexus in that! Steffan, are you sure you don’t want to come over for a nightcap?” “Anya, I think for our safety, we should call it an evening rather than put anymore temptation in front of us,” Steffan said as he gave Anya a long, deep kiss. “I’m thinking that both of us will have very vivid dreams to share with one another tomorrow that will even further test our strength and willpower.” “And why again aren’t we just giving in?” Steffan laughed and pecked her on the forehead. If only she knew how hard he was fighting for control. “I will stop in front of your house and give you a proper goodnight, how’s that?” “I’ll settle for that.” “Anya, you will never have to settle, I assure you of that.”

130

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Eleven Rhys and Eilian shot questionable glances at each other as they stood with Ryan at the outside entry of Steffan’s castle. The Hummer had long since disappeared from their view. In the distance, Vaughn carefully maneuvered the limousine into the gated entrance. “Yes, her name is Anya. Why do you ask?” Eilian asked Ryan “I like it. Anya—it’s a very sexy name. I like women with exotic beauty and style. I’m growing tired of the selections available in the late-night bar scene. It’s the same ol’ song and dance. There’s the recently divorced, the blabbering alcoholic, or the midlife-crisis mess.” “Gentlemen, Vaughn is here with our guest. I believe we should take our places below,” stated Eilian as the three men made their way back into Steffan’s house. They quickly headed to the underground passages of Ambrose Heights. “So Ryan, you haven’t seen Anya around the house?” Rhys probed further. “Well, you guys tell me to only use the tunnel systems for now, so I never had the pleasure of meeting her. Why? Did you all meet her? Did Steffan leave me out, not want me to meet her or something?” Ryan asked with a slightly flustered look. “No, no the family has yet to meet her. Steffan just started his mate quest with her.” Eilian paused prematurely, deliberating whether or not to reveal Anya’s connection to Ryan without Steffan present. But with Ryan’s reintroduction tomorrow and Steffan’s focus absorbed in Anya, this seemed like as good a time as any to broach the subject. Ryan shot a suspect glance at Eilian but remained silent.

Veil of Seduction

131

As they reached the entry of the dining room, Eilian stopped in his tracks and looked at Rhys for reassurance that this was the right time to tell Ryan. Understanding his look, Rhys responded by nodding. “Okay, what is up?” asked Ryan now in a pronounced agitated voice as he watched the exchange between Rhys and Eilian. “Steffan wanted to talk to you about your past. But he’ll be with Anya for the rest of the evening, and this seems like a good opportunity to talk since your reintroduction is tomorrow. Let’s have a seat. Vaughn and our guests can wait for us a little while,” Eilian said as he motioned for Rhys and Ryan to take a seat with him at the dining room table. “Know about what? He and I talked for many hours, days even, about my past. I told him I can recall everything, clear as a bell. I’ll be fine for tomorrow,” Ryan said. “I’m not talking about your recollection of your professional life. I’m talking about things we’ve learned about you, of your personal life,” Eilian responded and started quickly in his explanation to Ryan. “The night that Steffan found you, you were in an accident.” “Yeah, I remember. I fucked up a brand new Mercedes. I assure you that will not happen to the replacement Steffan got for me.” “Right. But you don’t recall anything else about the accident? You don’t remember seeing Steffan that night?” “No. Steffan kept pushing the subject, but I told him all I remember.” Ryan’s gaze drifted as if recalling the events of that fateful night. “I remember it was snowing, and I lost control of the car. I remember seeing the vehicle hit the side of the mountain. I remember the sparks from the metal scraping alongside the road. I remember the sounds—the screeching of the metal, the glass shattering.” Ryan’s eyes adjusted back on Rhys and Eilian. “How did Steffan find me anyway?” “It was the first snowstorm of the season, so all us guys were out, taking flight. Well, all except this one. He was too busy with his woman.” Rhys paused, pointing to Eilian. “Steffan was making his way down the mountain when he came upon traces of the accident. When he found you, you were near death, bleeding internally. Steffan gave you a choice that night—to be left as he found you and suffer a slow death, to end your suffering abruptly or to become…one of us. You have to know Steffan has never turned a

132

Maya DeLeina

human into what we are. You were the first. And it was all because of something you said to him.” “What did I say?” “You mentioned a woman. You said that you needed her, that you had nothing without her,” stated Eilian. “Her? Her who? Why can’t I remember her?” “Because your eyes turned fricken black,” Rhys said coldly. Eilian shot a look of objection back at Rhys for the apathy of his response. “Black?” Ryan asked, his attention sharp as ever. Eilian sighed. “Ryan, when a human is turned, the sclera, the white part of your eyes, changes color during the transformation. It’s like the saying, the eyes are the window to the soul? You know, because they can give away what someone is thinking? Well, the eye color reveals the human character that imprints on vampire transformation. Red is passion. White is harmony. Yellow is valor. The continuum of traits within each shade can be farreaching.” “And black?” Ryan asked. Eilian looked at Ryan dead-on. “I think you know what black is.” “Black is bad,” Rhys said bluntly. Ryan turned in Rhys’s direction with a look of anger plastered on his face. “Rhys! Easy!” Eilian yelled. Turning to Ryan, Eilian continued, “Ryan, black is dark and sometimes evil. The translation can be wide ranging. In your case, you recalled everything of yourself and your possessions.” Eilian paused and looked at Rhys. “So yes, while black is bad, we think your blackness is the transference of egotism—self-indulgence.” “And why tell me this? You want to leave me an eternity to think about how wrong I lived my life, how I didn’t love or care for anyone in my life other than myself? Is that it?” Ryan blurted, full of annoyance and anger. “Look, it can be something you can correct! Human lives now, they’re very complicated. There’s so much expectation in the short time they’re given on earth. It’s all ingrained—an encoding of achievements, possessions, relationships, benchmarks life is measured by. All of this can make a human place material possession at the top of their list. And with that, they can lose touch with what’s really important in life. Ryan, we’re telling this to you

Veil of Seduction

133

now, because you have the ability to change it. You’ll see. A vampire’s existence is undemanding. We have very basic needs. The concept of time is different for us. With this, we have the potential to feel with unfathomable measure, to love, to empathize, to cherish more deeply,” Eilian explained, trying to console Ryan. “Steffan should’ve just left me alone to die rather than suffer with this,” Ryan said coldly. “Steffan and I, we were turned a long time ago. Our maker gave us a choice, like Steffan gave you. After we awoke from the transformation, Steffan had an overwhelming need to find his wife. It was all that consumed him. Back then, we could only move at night. Long story short, when we got to his wife, it was too late. She had died in childbirth. Since that time, he’s been searching for a mate to fill the void in his heart. He cherishes love, Ryan. When he heard you mention a woman, above the pain and suffering you were in, he chose to change you so death wouldn’t take you away from your love like it did for him.” “Who was she then? Do you know who I was talking about?” “Anise DeVera. She was your fiancée.” “I had a fiancée? Shit, what does she think happened to me all these months? Did you guys talk to her, explain? Can I see her?” “Ryan, Anise died in a car accident on the interstate shortly after Steffan changed you.” Ryan gasped. “She’s dead? I can’t even try to right what I’ve done wrong in the past! How does knowing this help me? ” “Ryan, I am sorry about Anise. Of course this is something we would’ve never have revealed to you since she passed, but Steffan needed for you to know. His fate may have an effect on you,” Eilian revealed. “What do you mean?” Ryan probed cautiously. “Anise had a twin sister. Anya.” “What?” “This is now Steffan’s Anya. He discovered a mate match to her. This is who he went off to meet just now,” Eilian explained. “How did he discover this?” Rhys jumped in. “The stone that you clung to on the night he found you. It dropped in his hands, and he felt the connection through that stone. This is the same stone he had tried all of these months for you to touch to see if you

134

Maya DeLeina

could recall anything. Anya worked in a metaphysical shop in town and the thought was that she gave the stone to you the morning of the accident. Steffan only went out in search of Anya after he exhausted all attempts to see if you could recall her and after we retrieved the report on Anise’s car accident from the family. ” “So that’s why he was so insistent.” Ryan nodded and paused in deep thought. “Tell me, what will happen when she sees me? What am I to say to her? Does she know I can’t remember her sister?” “We don’t know anything at this point. The plan is that you will not see her until after Steffan has claimed her and she is one of us. There is too much risk involved if she sees you before the turning. We cannot enthrall her if she freaks out knowing that you were turned, or else it will interrupt the mate ritual. After she turns, we can all sit down and talk.” Eilian responded. Ryan remained standing, absorbing everything that had just been revealed by Eilian and Rhys. He looked tired and worn, as if evaluating everything that had been revealed. **** Blackness. This was how he was to be defined. For everything Eilian and Rhys claimed it stood for, it still didn’t register in him. He felt no different, not remorseful, no extenuating need to make amends or atonement to anyone or anything in his life. The only true emotions that resonated deep in his belly were jealousy and envy. And it all centered on Steffan. Rhys and Eilian watched Ryan closely as he processed all that he had been told. “My eyes look normal to me when I look in the mirror,” Ryan said plainly. “Well now they do. The color inversion is meant to just hint at the potential character of a vampire directly with the maker. So the eyes only remain inverted with the inherited color for a couple of hours. And only during extreme circumstances does the color inversions make its appearance once again,” Eilian explained. “What color were your eyes?” Ryan asked.

Veil of Seduction

135

“Mine? They turned red,” stated Eilian. “Yellow,” Rhys confirmed. “And Steffan?” asked Ryan. “His remained white,” Eilian responded. “And no one else had black like me?” “Well…there was Dominic,” said Eilian. “Dominic? Who is that?” Ryan asked curiously. “Let’s just say Dominic is no longer part of the family. The blackness seemed to consume him,” Rhys said. “Steffan turned Dominic as well?” “No. I did,” Rhys whispered, his voice full of compunction. “You’re the first to have ever been turned by Steffan.” “I was? Then how did this family get started? Who turned everyone? Where did it all begin?” “Well, some of us were turned and some of us joined, for a lack of a better word. After Steffan and I were turned by our maker, Idris, the three of us formed a brotherhood. We heard it couldn’t be done—that male vampires were too aggressive, too territorial. But we did it. We formed a bond, kept each other company, learned from each other, and looked out for one another. After a few years, we started hearing accounts of other brotherhoods popping up in all different regions just like us and slowly, we started to run into them in our travels. At first, we thought we could possibly form a large brotherhood with those that were already together, but we realized there was already an order, a hierarchy instilled in the vampire males that bond together. Blending two formed brotherhoods couldn’t work. So, we moved on, settling in Russia for awhile. That’s where we found Haydn. He was near our cave, deep in the wilderness, dying from exposure. We conferred about the situation since this would be our first human turning as a group, and we decided to change him. I made Haydn. Russia is also the first time we ran into a brotherhood that grew into a family lair, a new breed of vampire society with laws, doctrines, and creeds. Idris and Steffan, they lit up at the prospect. And from then on, this was our purpose…to start a family lair of our own,” explained Eilian. “Idris. What happened? Why isn’t he here in Ambrose Heights? Since he was Steffan’s maker, why isn’t he leader?”

136

Maya DeLeina

“Idris had lost his original mate and was on his last decade to find another match. And yes, by all accounts, he was the leader of the brotherhood. He was much older, much wiser and had extraordinary abilities that we hadn’t come across in other vampires. We traveled throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, hoping to find a mate match for Idris before it was too late. When we settled in Nepal, we were walking through a bazaar in Kathmandu one night. Idris picked up a bracelet and fell to the ground suddenly. When we got to him, we found him laughing and crying. We realized what had happened. He’d found a match, a human mate match. We hunted feverishly to track her down. We were against time, down to months now. And then we found her. Her name was Sharesca. She was from an aristocratic family, in line for the Nepalese monarchy. She was already promised to prince, although they were not yet married. Once Sharesca met Idris, they fell in love and immediately started the claim ritual, both against time with her arranged marriage to a prince and the extinguishing date for Idris. When the prince found out about Idris, he summoned his army of guards and servants to bring Sharesca to him. He knew we were vampires, and we couldn’t protect her during the day, so that was when they took her.” Eilian shook his head and cleared his throat before he continued with the story. “When she refused the prince, proclaiming her love for Idris and her plan to complete the last ritual phase, he stabbed her. Gutted her, actually. Idris felt it all. He could feel what was happening to her as we lay underground, protected from the sunlight. When night fell, we went to her, knowing full well what we were going to find. But the scene, what he did to her, it was horrendous. We weren’t quite prepared for that.” “Shit! Too bad you guys didn’t have Defender at that time. What the hell did Idris do to the prince?” “The only thing he could think—he massacred everyone who’d taken part in it. We took care of the prince’s family, guards, and servants. We cleared out the entire royal palace, giving Idris time alone with the prince…a long time alone, days, in fact. It was a drawn out torture, he was being punished not only for the loss of Sharesca’s life, but for Idris’s life as well. Haydn, Steffan and I, we roamed Nepal for a bit, leaving Idris to satisfy his vengeance. That’s when we found Rhys.” “Yeah, but none of these guys turned me though. I was already a vampire,” Rhys stated emphatically.

Veil of Seduction

137

“A rogue one at that. He joined our brotherhood and we bestowed the Welsh name onto him. A few days later, the four of us went back to the palace. Idris had completed his mission and was close to extinguishing. He gathered us together and explained his ability. He had the power to sense the destiny of other vampires. Before he extinguished, he told us what he sensed for all of us, for our brotherhood. He left Steffan for last. Turns out, he gave Steffan his name, crowned king, because that is what he sensed for Steffan. He was destined to be a leader and become a figure of prominence of sorts for our kind. Just before expiring, he gave Steffan the eternal love bracelet that he’d found in the bazaar that night when he picked up Sharesca’s trace on. From that moment on, Steffan has been our leader and he has been searching for his mate ever since.” “And what about the others?” “Well, once Idris expired, we went to Vienna, and that’s where Griffin joined our family. He too had lost his mate, somewhere in Australia, and was on his countdown to find another mate match. Steffan then suggested we travel to America. None of us had ever stepped foot on the soil. We wanted to explore, get a feel for the land, you know, gauge our future options. We started with a brief trip to Louisiana, giving in to the rumors of a concentration of vampires in that region. That’s where I met my vampire mate, Catrin. With that, the brotherhood officially turned into a family. We then traveled to Oregon and Haydn made Gwynn, but not as a mate. When we finally took up residence in Alaska, Gwynn met her vampire mate, Aeron. And then Rhys here found his human mate, Brynne, right here in Colorado. All of us—me and Catrin, Rhys and Brynne, Gwynn and Aeron, found each other. Yet Steffan, our leader, after almost a century in existence, was still unmated, unable to find a fated match. But one thing about Steffan, if he couldn’t find his mate, he was happy to be among a family that had found theirs.” “Then I guess you’re going to tell me that he had high hopes for me, and I blew it because of the blackness,” Ryan stated. “Ryan, I know this was hard to take, but tomorrow is your reintroduction day. Now that you know everything, it can also be your day for reinvention. You and Steffan have given each other true gifts. You led him to his mate, and he gave you the chance to rebuild.”

138

Maya DeLeina

Eilian paused and put his arm around Ryan’s shoulders. “Now let’s head down and officially start your reintroduction.” Eilian and Rhys stood in front of the china cabinet. Ryan quietly stood behind them as Eilian reached for the keypad tucked into the wall and entered the code. All was silent as they waited for the interior transformation to be complete and allow them access to the freight elevator. Ryan broke the silence, “Well, if Steffan is going after Anya, she must be very elegant and very beautiful. Were Anise and Anya identical twins?” “Yes. But Ryan, you know Anya is now off-limits. She’s already being pursued by Steffan. And, as a matter of fact, Steffan’s never really seen her yet. They had a mate connection through touch,” Rhys said as they stepped into the elevator and descended to the tunnel passages. “Remember how rare I told you that a human and vampire mate match was to detect? Steffan has finally found a true mate match. No one can interfere with what’s already fated,” Eilian added. Ryan spoke in his defense, “But I really didn’t mean—” Rhys stopped him abruptly. “I don’t care what you meant. Have you not soaked in anything from the story we told you about Steffan? You do not mess with another man’s mate and especially not someone within your family. And certainly not Steffan’s. Besides, it is against our laws. Don’t mess with the bull, young man. You’ll get the horns!” “All right, what the hell? I know I’ve heard that before! Why do I have déjà vu with some of the things you say?” Ryan blurted. Eilian sighed. “Unlike Steffan and I who utilize news broadcasts, books and the internet to keep up with modern dialogue, speech patterns, and slang, Rhys loves his movies and television as his learning devices. Doesn’t help that he has a photogenic memory for things he hears. It’s tiring, but you’ll eventually get used to it.” The elevator came to a stop, and Rhys lifted the cage as the men followed Eilian to the enthrallment room that sat directly under the garden labyrinth. “By the way, I don’t believe Steffan wanted you gallivanting around town looking for women. Someone might have recognized you.” “Look, I only go off at night to places I know I would never be caught dead in when I was human. It’s all good. I understand. ”

Veil of Seduction

139

Eilian turned around and faced Ryan as they stood next to the large metal door. “You ready?” Ryan nodded. Eilian hit the button on the side of the wall, and the door swiveled on its axis, allowing the three men to take in the room’s view. The room resembled a college lecture class. Stadium seating rose above them several stories high. All of the family members were lined up at the edges of the room near multiple exits. Rhys took his mark at the top exit. Gasps and whispers blurted from the audience members when they laid their eyes on Ryan. Eilian motioned for Ryan to take his position at the exit closest to him. Eilian selected Ryan’s close business associates and the new staff hired for his firm in Denver to attend the afternoon meeting. Eilian calmed the crowd by explaining Ryan’s absence over the past six month—his breakdown, his need for seclusion, his rehabilitation in Arizona. He also informed them of the unfortunate circumstances surrounding his fiancée, Anise, just in case they hadn’t already heard about the tragedy. The last thing he needed was for Ryan to come apart at the seams at work if someone were to ask him how Anise was doing. At the end of the meeting, the audience was carefully guided out of the predetermined exists manned by the family members. Each of the family had their chance to feed and enthrall their selected audience member before releasing them in various areas of the garden maze. After the audience made their way through the maze, Vaughn escorted them back to the comforts of the limousine, returning them to their offices. They all recalled their productive afternoon at the team-building camp, tucking away their knowledge of Ryan’s whereabouts all this time in the recesses of their minds to allow him a seamless transition back into his human life. **** Anya continued polishing the crystals and rocks on display in the window as Michelle stood behind her with her arms folded. “Wait a minute, so you’re saying there was no penetration, no flesh touching, rubbing, licking, sucking, no nothing?” asked Michelle.

140

Maya DeLeina

“Uh-huh,” Anya responded, smiling as she remained fixed on her cleaning duties. “And you both…just…like that?” “Uh-huh.” “And he’s picking you up here this afternoon?” “Uh-huh.” “And this is the same man who owns the castle?” “Uh-huh.” Anya turned around and faced Michelle. “And guess what. Not gay. Not ugly.” “Well, that settles it. I’m canceling my massage so I can stick around to meet this guy.” A group of women walked in and Michelle welcomed them to the store. Anya walked to the register and took a seat on the stool. Michelle propped her elbows on the glass case in front of Anya. “So what should I expect to see walk through that door? Describe him to me.” “Hmmm…” Anya closed her eyes and pictured Steffan. She recalled moments in the evening that took her breath away. His gait toward her from across the studio, the intensity of his gaze, his strength and power, his musical gift, his laugher, his ability to make her feel safe and cared for replayed in her mind. “Seductive, masculine, embracing, safe, caring, talented, comforting.” Anya opened her eyes and caught her heavy breath. “Completely absorbing.” “Wow!” Michelle responded as she carefully examined Anya’s expression. Anya leaned in closer to Michelle and reduced her conversation to a whisper. “I scared myself last night. I was so willing, so responsive to him. I’ve never been like that, ever. I’m always so guarded, worried about consequences. Steffan is the one who saved us. He said he wanted more for us than just sex.” Michelle sighed, “I don’t know Anya, men like that—well, there just aren’t really men like that out there.” Anya spoke if she were in a trance, “It was amazing. I just got lost in him. Everything was effortless, comforting, and familiar. I could talk to him

Veil of Seduction

141

for hours. And the music. It was magical.” Anya started to tear up as she looked Michelle in the eye. “Anya, slow down. You don’t know this guy. I don’t want to see you hurt.” “And where has slow gotten me before? I’ve always been careful and I have been through more hurt than anyone should go through. I’m thirty-five years old, and I’ve been with only three men in my life. The first man, I waited for, thinking it was love. I lost my virginity to him, and he ended up bedding everyone in sight. I finally got married after college, but it wasn’t for love. Mom and Dad wanted me to marry him, and I did so after they died to respect their wishes. And then there was Ryan. I made him wait so long. I waited until I felt it could only be love, and look at what he did to me! I want to love, Michelle. I want to love with everything, all of me, without holding back, without fear. Why can’t I give in? I have nothing. Maybe I’m crazy, but there’s something in me that tells me this is right. I don’t want to wait. I don’t want to do anything but love him.” “I want to believe in love at first sight, I truly do, but I just don’t think it exists, Anya.” “How do you explain what’s happened between us? Why did we dream of each other before even meeting? You know I’m not like you. I lost my faith a long time ago because I just couldn’t believe my life was meant to be this way, that something higher had this planned for me. Now, something inside of me is telling me to trust in this man. Something inside of me wants me to follow what I’m feeling.” “I don’t know what to say,” Michelle responded. “Just say you’re happy for me,” Anya said as she leaned over the counter to hug Michelle. “I am happy for you. All I want you to be is happy,” Michelle said, hugging Anya tightly. **** Anya felt like a school girl on the night of her prom. She was wild with anticipation, downright giddy at times, and was driving Michelle crazy.

142

Maya DeLeina

“You don’t think the construction cones were too much, huh? I told him that I sectioned off a spot in front of the store since parking can be a mess out there, especially with that monstrosity of a vehicle of his.” “Construction cones? Nah, not over the top.” “Oh my god, here he is!” Anya shot out the door and removed the bright-orange cones as Steffan parallel parked the car. As Anya shot past the window, she saw Michelle parked right up against the glass. She had no intentions in missing the show. Steffan stepped out of the black Hummer and ran into Anya’s waiting arms. He lifted her by her waist and shined the biggest smile. Anya placed her hands on each side of his face and lowered into him for a kiss. The kiss was intensely passionate and long, their bodies radiating a hum of pure delight. Steffan lowered Anya to the ground. “I couldn’t wait to see you. How was your day?” “Why don’t you ask me about my night?” Anya winked at Steffan, recalling the intensely erotic dream of Steffan she’d had. “You too?” exclaimed Steffan. “I really don’t know how we’ll make it through this evening together unscathed.” “Somehow, I don’t think we would be that disappointed if we failed. Come on, I want you to meet Michelle.” Steffan wrapped his arm around Anya as they made their way to the store. He held the door open for Anya as he removed his shades. **** This was it. Michelle took one look at Steffan and let out a gasp. “Michelle? I’m Steffan Matthews. Anya has told me a lot about you. I am very happy to meet you,” Steffan said as he held out his hand to greet Michelle. He held Michelle’s gaze intently. “Nice to meet you, Steffan. I’ve heard a lot about you as well.” Michelle seemed to waver in her stance, but fought to retain composure. “I’m happy to hear that,” Steffan responded as he assessed her eyes.

Veil of Seduction

143

Michelle’s eyes were telling. She was recalling traces of him. And, if she was recalling him, surely she would also recall the fact that he was a vampire, leaving his mate claim with Anya in jeopardy. With this realization, anxiety coiled through his body. He knew what he would have to do to rectify the situation. Steffan turned to Anya. “I heard that we’re supposed to be in for a great sunset. I hope you don’t mind. I brought a blanket, packed us some wine, cheese, strawberries…” Steffan stopped and absorbed his surroundings. He was suddenly aware that all of the focus was on him. “Sorry, I was just so excited. I couldn’t wait to see you,” Steffan said. “Aww,” female voices sounded in unison. Steffan looked up felt a tinge of embarrassment wash over him. He’d just rattled all of that off right in front of Michelle and the female customers who were gawking at his presence. “You did all of that for me?” asked Anya, oblivious to the spellbound hold Steffan had on all of the women who surrounded her. Michelle moved behind Anya and placed her hands on her shoulders as she spoke to Steffan. “Let me tell you, our Anya here stayed up last night and made dark chocolate mousse dessert for the two of you. She even asked me to borrow my patch quilt for your little rendezvous this evening.” “You made something, and here I just bought the stuff!” Steffan said to Anya. “I bake with chocolate when I’m happy,” Anya stated, blushing. “Let me get the dessert from the fridge, and we can head out.” Anya headed to the backroom of the store. “Take your time, Anya. Steffan and I will pack your cello and your bags in the car,” Michelle yelled though her eyes remained fixed on Steffan. Steffan grabbed Anya’s cello and held the door open for Michelle as she carried Anya’s remaining belongings. As he opened the back of the Hummer, Steffan said softly, “Thank you, Michelle.” “No, Steffan. Thank you. I never got the chance to tell you how grateful I was for that night. You disappeared so quickly. I swore I would never forget you. I swore I would never forget your face.” No longer was there any doubt. Michelle remembered Steffan. He decided to test exactly how much more she’d retained. This would help him determine what to do with her.

144

Maya DeLeina

“I had to step in. I couldn’t let Dominic do that to you. I knew he would never forgive himself. That’s the only reason why I followed him to your place. I knew he was planning to enthrall you to say yes. My family, we were responsible for him and his actions. I’m just sorry the two of you couldn’t be together.” “I loved him, Steffan. I truly did. I just couldn’t go through with it. I have Chloe. She’s my responsibility and my priority.” “I know.” Steffan nodded. “Dominic spoke of you often. He told me you were alone because you were still searching for your mate. I had no idea it would be Anya. Does she know yet?” “No. I’ll have to ease her into it.” Michelle shook her head. “God. Once I saw you walk through that door, it just all made perfect sense. She’s had these dreams about you for weeks now. And I think…she’s falling in love with you. I never saw her like this before. Steffan, she has no one left here, no family. You must know that she’s been through a lot. She has had so much heartache in her life.” “I know about her past,” Steffan said somberly. “I’m glad she had you to help her through everything.” “Please take care of her. She deserves happiness.” “And you understand what our mate connections will mean for her? That is, if she chooses this.” “Yes, I do.” “And you don’t object?” “No, I don’t. I never had objections when Dominic and I discussed it. It just wasn’t something I could do. For me, I don’t believe in death. I believe everything lives again, in a cycle. Reincarnation of the soul, you could say. Saying no to Dominic was the hardest thing I ever had to do. But I told him if we were truly meant to be together, he could find me, find my soul in my next life.” “Tell me, what does Anya believe in?” “Anya only knows death. You know, she used to believe in a heaven and a hell. She wanted desperately to have comfort in knowing that her family had a heaven to go to. But how could she believe in that when she questioned her very faith in a maker—a maker that had this destiny for her

Veil of Seduction

145

and her loved ones? She’s lost so much in her life that she doesn’t have much belief in anything. She doesn’t even question things anymore.” Silence fell between them. “H–How is Dominic?” Michelle asked. “I’m sorry. Dominic left my family after that night at your home. We haven’t seen him since.” Michelle’s eyes became glassy, and her bottom lip quivered. Steffan placed his hands on Michelle’s shoulders, leaned in close, and looked her squarely in the eye. “Michelle, I want to hear it from your lips, so I know there’s no misunderstanding here. What am I?” “Vampire.” “You’ve known this…all this time?” “Yes.” “What am I offering to Anya as my mate?” “Immortality.” “And you never mentioned any of this, who I am, that I exist, to anyone…Anya perhaps?” “Nope.” Steffan looked at Michelle with curious eyes. “Why haven’t you said anything?” “It was never my secret to tell.” Steffan shook his head in response. The woman was amazing. Michelle leaned into Steffan and whispered, “I had no idea your family lived in Ambrose Heights. Are all of the residents up there vampires?” Steffan’s nagging uncertainty about Michelle’s enthrall was finally settled. He had performed it on her the night of the rescue, but it was a tricky one. Michelle had lapsed in and out of his control, her mind and body already saturated with Dominic’s control enthrall. Steffan had struggled with Dominic’s pull on her. He had every intention to erase everything, but somehow, he always suspected that she’d retained bits and pieces, that it wasn’t complete. He just didn’t know how much or what exactly she’d retained. Until now. As it stood, the mystery behind Ambrose Heights remained unbroken. Michelle’s travels in the tunnels, her experience through the first passage of

146

Maya DeLeina

the claim, her tour of the castle and her nights spent at Dominic’s home, the home that was now Anya’s, had been effectively erased. But she retained Steffan and Dominic’s existence vividly, which meant she also retained the full-blown knowledge that vampires existed in Manitou Springs. And yet, Steffan and his family had been safe and secure, their cover remaining intact and unexposed. Michelle was no doubt a mortal who could be trusted. He exhaled, breathing a sigh of relief. His fear in having to enthrall Michelle after Anya’s turning, irrevocably severing their ties, would not have to become a reality. Michelle would remain Anya’s best friend, the two of them continuing to relish their companionship, but as a human and a vampire. “Yes. I built Ambrose Heights for my immediate family.” “My god. Anise was a vampire as well?” “No. She never got to live at Ambrose Heights. We actually sold the house to her fian—” “This, I must say, is pure heaven. I hope you like it.” Anya stepped in between Michelle and Steffan, slipping the dessert tray into the car and interrupting Steffan’s opportunity to reveal Ryan’s connection to Ambrose Heights to Michelle. “I guess we’re ready,” Steffan said as he closed the back door of the Hummer. “Michelle, it was an absolute pleasure to meet you. I’m sure we will see each other again.” Steffan reached for Michelle and planted a delicate kiss on the back of her hand. “It was a pleasure meeting you, Steffan. Have fun, you two!” Steffan lead Anya to the passenger door and held her hand as she stepped into the Hummer. He raised himself on the side board and fastened the seat belt around Anya’s waist. Their gazes met, the straightforward task igniting excitement in both of them. Steffan responded with a delicious wink. He made his way to the driver side and slipped into the seat. Starting the engine, Steffan smiled as he looked over at Anya. He couldn’t believe she was there with him, smiling back at him. “Ready?” Steffan asked. “I’ve been ready since you left me last night.”

Veil of Seduction

147

Chapter Twelve Anya reached over and placed her hand on Steffan’s thigh as he carefully maneuvered the Hummer down the narrow street. “You’ll have to direct me from here. I don’t know where this place is.” “You live in the Springs and have never been to the Garden of the Gods? Where are you from anyway?” “Originally? South Wales. And I’ve been busy with work. Not much time to get sightseeing in. Besides, you’re the first woman to ever ask me to go out to a place like this with her.” Steffan smiled at Anya as he lifted her hand to his lips and set soft kisses from her wrist down the length of her forearm. “Steffan, somehow I can’t imagine a woman not wanting to be by your side, let alone you being without attention from women in general,” Anya said in a very nonchalant, witty fashion. Deep down, her heart was far from being blasé on the subject. Steffan found a residential road and pulled off the highway. He slowed the Hummer to a stop. Anya looked at Steffan curiously as he adjusted his position in the driver’s seat to face her and slipped his hands into hers. “Anya, remember I told you that I don’t want to play games? You’re very important to me. Our connection is my focus. That’s why I won’t hold back the truth from you either,” Steffan said. “Okay. You’re scaring me a bit, though, I have to admit,” Anya replied with slight apprehension of what he was about to reveal. I knew he was too good to be true. “I’m sorry.” Steffan paused to select his words prudently. “What I want you to know is I’ve have been with many, many, many women. I don’t want you to get this romantic notion about me. The truth is that a woman’s attention got the best of me. In the end, I’m still a man who had desires. The women were only interested in one thing from me, and I only had one thing

148

Maya DeLeina

in mind with them. But with you, Anya, it’s more than physical. I want to give you everything I have in me. You have my heart. You have my love.” Anya gasped as his last words echoed in her head. “Love? H–how do you know this is love? We just met. You know nothing about me!” Anya blurted out. “Everyone has their own way of defining what they’re feeling. For me, it’s not a measure of time that makes me determine when it’s love. I know myself. I know when I want to give unconditionally, when I care about someone else’s happiness more than my own. That’s how I know.” “God, Steffan. This is so crazy! I–I don’t know. I’m not the same person when you are around me. And, I’ve been hurt more than you know,” Anya responded. More than anything, she wanted to admit he’d already captured her heart, but something told her to hold it back. Was this love she was feeling? She knew what lust felt like. And this wasn’t lust. Something about Steffan felt right and familiar. But beyond this, Steffan felt like a person she was supposed to meet. She couldn’t explain it. If there was one thing she was certain of, she needed to get a handle on her out-of-control feelings. “When I tell you I’m in love with you, Anya, I don’t have an expectation for a response until you’ve discovered it for yourself. I want it to come from your heart, not from a response dictated by courtesy.” Steffan leaned in slowly for a kiss. Anya didn’t hesitate and lusciously accepted his lips on hers. She wrapped her arms around Steffan’s neck as she closed her eyes and delved deep into his adoring kiss. Anya released a whimper into Steffan’s mouth. She had never had such a powerful and intoxicating kiss in her life. He was right, they may have only met, but he was far from a stranger. Flush from their passionate exchange, Anya looked into Steffan’s eyes. “What we did, who we were before we met, is just the past. We concentrate on us from here on, all right?” Steffan nodded as he brushed back Anya’s hair. “I believe our music session in the park awaits us.” ****

Veil of Seduction

149

The Hummer rolled down the long stretch of highway. In the distance Steffan could see the red rock formations darting from the earth straight to the sky. “Is that it there?” he asked. “Uh-huh.” Anya smiled at Steffan. He was full of anticipation and excitement, like a child on Christmas morning. “It’s beautiful!” Steffan said as he made his way to the entrance of the park. He leaned into the steering column to look up at the towering cluster formations. “Look at the red rocks against the peak. How breathtaking!” Anya smiled. “You think this is beautiful, just you wait until you make your way around the bend at the top of this road.” The Hummer slowly climbed the grade in the pavement, navigating the twists and turns of the pathway. As Steffan negotiated the last turn at the top of the hill, he was left breathless at the picture-postcard sight that slowly revealed itself. “Incredible!” The red hues blazed from the multitude of spire formations that jutted impressively from the earth. The sight was a photographer’s dream. “Steffan, pull over here, at the lookout,” Anya said, motioning for Steffan to the pull over. Steffan parked the Hummer along the side of the road, eagerly stepped out of the vehicle and made his way to the passenger door. He led Anya around the front of the Hummer to the low rock wall barrier then took a seat on the wall facing the scenic view. He pulled Anya toward him and motioned for her to take her seat between his legs. As Anya settled in, Steffan wrapped his arms tightly around her waist, soaking in the sight. The formations were prominent, mixing textures of free-flowing masses to serrated towers. Blue jays chirped and darted from tree to tree in deep contrast to the fiery red that radiated from the rocks. Above, two hawks glided silently through the air. In the distance, the snow-covered peak of the majestic mountain range served as a grandiose backdrop. “Anya. Thank you for taking me here. This is truly amazing. I’ve never seen anything quite like this before,” Steffan said as he hugged Anya deeper to his chest.

150

Maya DeLeina

“I come here to reflect and feel renewed. You can’t help but feel at peace surrounded by all of this. You seem that you have a enjoy nature as well. I’m absolutely thrilled that you’re an ‘outdoorsy’ person like me. There are so many things to see and do here in this town.” Steffan cringed. He was a vampire, a far cry from what one would consider an outdoorsy person. With his heartfelt speech to Anya about being truthful earlier, a sickness churned inside of him. He could continue his masquerade as a human for as long as Defender and Consumption could sustain and protect his true identity. He needed Anya to know who he was and why they had been brought together. He couldn’t face the guilt in lying to her and postponing the inevitable. Steffan’s mind raced. But how? How can I tell her without scaring her away? How can I make sure she’ll want to be my mate? Can I actually let her go if she rejects me? What happened to Dominic? Will that happen to me? Will I even choose to continue to exist without Anya as my mate? “Steffan?” Anya’s voice interrupted the onslaught of questions plaguing his thoughts. She adjusted her position between Steffan’s legs to glimpse at his expression. “Yes?” “Are you okay? I was talking to you and you haven’t said a word for a couple minutes there. You seemed to be in deep thought. Is there something on your mind, anything I can help you with?” Steffan smiled at the way Anya eyes fixated on him, drenched with genuine concern. He could see the affection for him building inside her. It was a look he hadn’t seen a woman have for him since his wife, Arianell. Why am I waiting to bed this woman? We need to bond intimately, Steffan thought. After all, for him, it would be making love in the most literal sense. Their union could be essential in assuring she would choose to be his mate. “I’m more than okay. Anya, I was thinking about us.” “What about us?” “I was thinking about finding a private, little spot off one of these trails.” “Really? And what are we going to do in our private, little spot?” Anya bit her bottom lip in anticipation.

Veil of Seduction

151

“Play music together, of course.” “Well, there is a trailhead down this road in the next parking lot. We can start our hike from there,” Anya responded. Steffan slung his backpack over one of his broad shoulders and lifted Anya’s cello from the trunk. Anya packed the two quilts in her backpack, and Steffan carefully centered the bag on her back. She carried Steffan’s violin case in her right hand. They set out on their hike through the park in search of the perfect spot for their private rendezvous. Anya slowed to read the fine print on the sign. “Steffan,” Anya whispered as Steffan leaned down toward her. “I don’t think we can bring the wine in here.” “I don’t think they’ll notice, love. We will be fine.” Steffan winked back at Anya as they continued to walk down the trail. “Perfect,” said Steffan when they reached a spot on the trail. The setting secluded them from the barrage of people while allowing for unobstructed views of the spires and the stately, snow-covered mountain range. “Simply perfect,” Anya said as she laid out the large quilt on the ground and carefully set the instrument cases on it. “And look, nature provided you the perfect chair so you can play your cello,” Steffan said as he pointed to a smooth boulder. The lovers wasted no time in removing their instruments from their cases with an air of exhilaration. “I worked on some of the cello parts for your song last night,” Anya said as she removed the sheet music and a bag of clothes pins. “Clothes pins?” “To secure the sheet music out here,” Anya said as she secured the sheet music with the clothes pins on a nearby bush. Steffan stood next to Anya and laughed. “Brilliant. But this is not my song. This is our song. I titled it ‘Ray of Light.’” “Ray of Light?” Anya closed her eyes as she reflected on the melody. “Yes! That’s very fitting. It matches the feel of the piece, the slow melody of a single instrument piercing through the stillness, being met by the harmony of another instrument, coming together in unison to awaken emotion.” Anya opened her eyes. “How did you come up with that?”

152

Maya DeLeina

“Ray of Light? It means a beam of light that leads the way, with a sense of inspiration and enlightenment. Anya, we were drawn to each other by some force. And now, I have a sense of clarity and fulfillment when I’m with you. I don’t know. That’s what I feel our music, our connection, translates to.” “Nicely put. Well then, Maestro, shall we perform our song?” “Let’s.” **** They spent the rest of the afternoon playing their song and performing solos for one another in the picturesque setting. Each was in awe of the masterful skill and talent of the other. As the sun set, they packed away their instruments and sat on the quilt, quietly embracing one another as the blue sky rolled in slow waves of orange, purple, and pink. “I’m glad we ended up bringing both quilts. It feels a little chilly out,” Anya said. On cue, Steffan gathered the blanket tightly around Anya as he pulled her closer into his body. Steffan leaned his back against the boulder, his legs separated, allowing Anya to nestle in close to his chest. Anya drew her arm from under the covers and retrieved the bottle of wine. “I love this wine!” Anya took a healthy gulp. She handed the bottle to Steffan as he took his turn savoring the nectar. “It goes splendidly with the strawberries and cheese. And it should be excellent with your dessert.” Steffan put the bottle down and retrieved a plump strawberry from the tray that sat next to them. Relishing the sensuality of being fed by Steffan, Anya leaned her head back and parted her lips. Steffan traced Anya’s lips seductively with the fruit before allowing her to take a slow, juicy bite. “Does Eilian only make red wine?” Anya asked as she gulped down the strawberry piece. “Yes. He’s quite fond of reds and concentrates on perfecting them.” Steffan frowned as he caught himself in another web of deception. The very words stung his lips and seared a path straight through his heart. Truth told, the wine was Steffan’s specific brand that he and Eilian had perfected. The wine had a marked sweetness, with deep chocolate

Veil of Seduction

153

undertones and was laced with droplets of Steffan’s black blood. The wine was stored in a large oak barrel, encouraging the flavor of the blood and wine to develop, all the while contributing to the smoky vanilla finish. The wine was filtered and bottled like clockwork and sat deep in the cellar, waiting to be presented to a potential human mate. It was documented that humans, when consuming their vampire mate’s blood that had gone through the fermentation process, would slowly acquire a partiality to blood themselves. This would make the last part of the claim ritual less intrusive. For Steffan, he had read that the blood wine could somehow reduce the pain of the turning. The exact science of it all still eluded Eilian and Steffan, but anything that could minimize the pain his mate would surely suffer through was the inspiration he needed to produce the elixir. So they continued the process, bottling the blood and wine while discarding older bottles that were untouched and had lost their potency. They followed this practice every three years. But now, it appeared that it would swiftly come to an end. Anya reached for the glass plate only to find it empty. “Looks like we need more cheese. I’ll slice a little more.” “I’ll do it.” Steffan retrieved what was left of the Asiago block and the fig goat cheese. “Here, you can plate the last of these,” he said as he handed Anya the little foil discs. Anya peeled back the gold and silver foil, exposing the sponge-like cheeses nestled in their protective wax casings and placed them carefully on the plate. Anya popped one of the delectable pieces in her mouth and leaned back to retrieve the bottle of wine. She took a sip and closed her eyes. “Nice huh?” Steffan asked, noticing Anya took a long moment to linger in the finish. “Very nice.” “I’m curious, what notes did you pick up on in the taste?” “Hmm…strong hints of cherry, black currant, a slight oak flavor and chocolate.” Anya paused. “There’s something else there that I can’t quite pick up on. Whatever it is, they make a delicious wine.” “Very good, Anya, very good.” Steffan smiled with a hint of surprise. He went back to work.

154

Maya DeLeina

Anya sat back on her heels and watched Steffan as he worked on the presentation, placing the Asiago pieces in a fan design on the glass plate and spreading the goat cheese in a generous layer on paper-thin crackers. Steffan looked up at Anya as he sliced the last of the cheese on the board. He flashed Anya a smile. Within the silent exchange, he could taste their arousal hovering thickly in the air. Steffan once again went back to his task, but he could feel Anya’s eyes still on him, as if in deep evaluation. He’d wondered if Anya had any disappointment in the way he looked. Steffan wasn’t clean shaven like last night. He’d let his dark stubble grow and knew that against his white skin, it was no doubt well pronounced and very rugged looking. But by the way Anya kissed him when he picked her up, he didn’t think this was the case at all. Hell, she didn’t even seem to mind the roughness of his stubble against her skin. “Shit!” Steffan yelped out of nowhere. Anya jerked suddenly. The sound of the heavy cheese knife crashing to the plate was piercing. Steffan sliced his finger with the cheese knife. Before he could shield the flow of his black blood and close his wound, Anya quickly reached for his finger and placed it in her mouth. Her reaction was effortless and natural. She didn’t even cringe at the taste of his blood. Steffan tried to pull back, but the sensation of his blood pumping into Anya was overwhelmingly pleasurable. Steffan looked at Anya as her mouth puckered around his finger in a sucking motion. It was an erotic sight and Steffan couldn’t control his breath. Retract your finger, Steffan. It was too dangerous for her to consume his blood in its purest form. But then, she would surely see the black blood. And it wouldn’t be just a hint as Rhys had advised. Hell, what did it matter anyway? She was sucking on his blood of all things, clearly not in the realm of what Rhys had suggested. He was out of his element, not being as polished and elegant as he wanted. He just started his mate claim, and he had already lost control. Now, he would have to face the consequence and work through an explanation for Anya. He fought to still his mind and regain control.

Veil of Seduction

155

The black blood was the telltale sign of an unmated vampire. A vampire’s blood would not flow red until their fated mate was claimed. The color shift was the last part of the ritual, symbolizing the passion, the romance, and the burning desire the mates vowed to one another. Steffan would not flow red until after he and Anya mated. That is, if she would have him and give up her mortality. He wrestled with the swirling thoughts and finally retracted his finger from her mouth. He held his breath in anticipation of her onslaught of questions. Anya released his finger and examined the wound. “Steffan, your blood! It’s black!” Steffan pulled his finger from Anya’s grasp and wrapped his finger in a wad of napkins. “Are you okay? Is there something wrong with you?” “Don’t be scared. I’m fine.” “But your blood—i–it’s not supposed to be black like that. I think it may be a sign of low oxygen levels. Are you light-headed or anything?” “I’m fine.” Steffan removed his finger from the napkins and stuck it in his mouth. “See?” Steffan said as he held his finger out for Anya to examine. Shit! He’d sealed the wound completely. He’d only meant to stop the bleeding. “There’s nothing here!” Anya pulled his hand in closer for examination. “Not even a scratch. I know you cut yourself and were bleeding, I could taste it in my mouth!” Anya ran her finger up and down Steffan’s finger. “Anya, I’m okay. I’m not hurt. I’m not bleeding. Really, honey. I am okay. Thank you for helping me. ” “Stop it! Stop being all sweet. I know what I saw.” “Look, don’t be scared, I’m okay now. C’mon, let me hold you again and enjoy the last of the colors. It’ll be dark soon.” Anya stared at Steffan in silence, then responded, “Okay. You’re right.” Anya slipped into Steffan’s waiting arms. She reached for his hand and held it up for examination once more. Steffan didn’t release his hand and allowed Anya to explore freely.

156

Maya DeLeina

In their silent exchange, Steffan knew that the mystery of what had just happened weighed on her mind. Perfect. Clue number one was effectively revealed for her to deliberate on. “Anya, I’m thinking about the dark chocolate mousse,” said Steffan, breaking the long silence of their embrace. “Coming right up!” Anya pulled out two small ceramic dishes that held the chilled mousse and retrieved two small dessert spoons. “I hope you like it.” Steffan took in a big spoonful and let it rest on his tongue. He loved the taste of dark chocolate. He savored the lingering palate of the smoothness, the sweet finish of a decadent velvet sin. “Oh my, this is excellent, Anya.” “I’m glad you like it.” Steffan took another spoonful and let the mousse slide down his throat. As he swallowed, he felt a pain in the pit of his stomach. His body started to race with fever. He glanced at his wristwatch. Idiot. It was 7:41 p.m. He had taken Consumption just as he made his way down the mountain to pick Anya up. That was at 1:40 p.m. How did I lose track of time? Steffan was in a full-blown panic. His mind was racing for things he could do or say to block Anya’s involvement in what was about to happen. He could enthrall her, forging the scene that took place. But enthralling to erase memory was dicey during a mate quest or claiming. It could hinder the strength of the bond she had to him. Worse still, he could completely sever the ties, never regaining the ability to connect with Anya again. No. The price was too high. This was not an option. Steffan quieted his anxiety and settled into the reality of the moment. There was nothing else he could do. It was going to happen, and Anya was going to be witness to it. His body was going to erupt violently, trying to force the intake to process through his vampiric system. Of all the drastic transformations the human body design went through at turning, this was by far the most radical. Vampire digestive systems adapted to accommodate a liquid diet, ready to quickly deliver blood protein throughout the circulatory system. Without Consumption suspended in his body, there were no

Veil of Seduction

157

processes to manage any solids. Instead, his cells would go on the attack, treating the intake as an intruder. As the war inside raged, his body would burn with fever and convulse viciously. The pain would be excruciating. And with that, clue number two was just around the corner. If his earlier assessment in carelessly cutting his finger was his idea of losing control, then this was absolute hysteria. “Anya, I need your help,” Steffan said calmly as he pushed the blanket off his shoulders that cocooned him to Anya. Anya turned around. The alarm in her eyes told Steffan that she knew something was very wrong. “Don’t panic. I’m burning up with a fever right now. I need something very cold, ice water or ice to put under my armpits and behind my neck to help bring down this fever…fast.” “I…I…” Anya’s voice was panicked. “I have all of these instant ice packs!” She scrambled to retrieve six of the instant ice packs that she’d used to keep the mousse chilled. The flexible packs looked like little frozen pillows, resembling the pattern of the quilt. Anya took off her sweater shrug and balled it up. “Let’s take this off.” Anya unbuttoned Steffan’s shirt and removed the material from his chest and shoulders. Heat radiated from his body. She placed her hand around his neck and then tested his temperature on his forehead with the back of her hand. “Lie back, Steffan, you’re burning up!” She placed her sweater behind his head as she gently guided him to lie down on the blanket. Anya hovered over his body as she formed the ice packs to fit in the crevices of his armpits, behind his neck and on his forehead. Steffan watched Anya in admiration as she moved with swift care and attended to his needs. “Steffan, do you feel better? What else can I do?” Anya searched his eyes. “Better. I’m sorry if I scared you, Anya,” Steffan said with a ragged breath. “You mean scared me again, right?” Anya responded in an obvious attempt to make light of the situation.

158

Maya DeLeina

Steffan nodded. “Anya, I think I may scare you even more with what’s about to happen. No matter what you see or hear, just hold on to me and try to keep my body down, close to the ground. I promise it’ll be over with quickly.” “Huh?” Steffan’s body started to shake violently. He tried to remain quiet in an effort not to further frighten Anya, but the pain was excruciating and he let out a deep, agonized cry. “Steffan!” Anya tried to hold him down by his shoulder to no avail. “Oh my god, please, what’s happening?” Anya started to tear up. “I don’t know what to do, Steffan! I’m scared.” Anya’s tears streamed down her face. Suddenly, Steffan’s eyes rolled back in his head. His body continued to contract powerfully. “Oh shit! Steffan, can you hear me?” Steffan didn’t have the ability to communicate with Anya to reassure her that they were almost in the clear. He felt helpless. “Please, I’m falling in love with you. Don’t leave me, don’t leave me now!” she pleaded. The pain slowly dissipated, and Steffan’s brutal body convulsions subsided. His eyes flew open in search of Anya. She was kneeling above him, tears streaming down her face as she gently ran her hand through his hair. Steffan sat up and embraced Anya. With the rush of adrenaline gone, Anya collapsed in Steffan’s arms, crying uncontrollably. A mix of emotions ran through Steffan. He was torn between regret and elation. Regret for the fear and anxiety he had just put her through, but pure elation in the knowledge that she was falling in love with him. Through his attack, he’d heard everything she said. Anya pulled back from his embrace and screamed at him. “What’s going on, Steffan? Tell me! Tell me now what’s wrong with you!” “Shh, Anya. It’s okay. I’m okay. I am so sorry you had to see that.” Steffan held Anya closely as he tried to calm her. “Steffan, you have me. From the moment I saw you, I was yours. But now I’m seeing that you’re ill and you won’t tell me what’s going on.

Veil of Seduction

159

Obviously, it’s bad if you can’t tell me. Look, I can’t go through another heartbreak. I’ve been through too much. I’m sorry, I just can’t.” Anya cried as she spilled out her heart to Steffan. His heart broke into a million pieces. His mind told him what he needed to do. Tell her. This cannot wait. “I wish I could take everything that just happened back, I should’ve been more careful. You shouldn’t have seen that. But I’m truly fine, Anya…per se.” Steffan held her tightly as he slowly laid her down on the blanket and reached for the quilt to cover their bodies. He pulled her close to his chest. Her head rested on his bicep. He gently lifted Anya’s knee to straddle his hips and inched himself closer to her. He needed to feel her body pressed against his. He needed to be consumed by her and erase the years of pain, for both of them. “No, I’m a strong woman. I’ve been through a lot in my life to know that I’m resilient and can handle just about anything that is thrown my way,” Anya recited mantra-like. “Whatever it is, even if you’re not meant to be here for long, you’ll have me by your side. You will not be alone. Just be straight with me. Give me at least that.” Tears flooded Steffan’s eyes. Not since Arianell’s death had he cried in his vampire existence. “Anya,” he said in pure veneration. Steffan sank into her lips. His mouth engulfed Anya’s in a deep, ravenous kiss as she responded without consideration or uncertainty. His hand glided along Anya’s body under the covers. Slowly, he reached under her skirt and traced the smooth skin of her thighs up to her hips. He let his hand caress down to her buttocks, her thong, allowing unrestricted access to her flesh. “Touch me, Steffan,” Anya said as she took Steffan’s hand and placed it on her breast. Steffan responded, slowly cupping and massaging her in his hand. He dipped his tongue into Anya’s mouth. Anya groaned in desire and set his body on fire. He moved Anya’s knee off of his hips and slowly pulled his arm from under her head. Reaching for the balled-up sweater, he gently lay her head down.

160

Maya DeLeina

Steffan lifted to his knees, repositioning himself between her legs. Anya opened her legs wide in acceptance. He shifted the quilt behind him and pulled it around his waist. Wanting an unhindered view of Anya lying beneath him, Steffan reached for the buttons of her shirt and slowly undid each one. Button by button, Steffan’s heart beat deeper and faster. Steffan delicately laid Anya’s shirt open, exposing her plunging, white satin bra, and quickly noted the front clasps of the garment. He smiled as his fingers traced down her cleavage. In one crafty move, the clasp was undone. He searched Anya’s eyes for acceptance as he slowly exposed each breast. With a grunt of need, Steffan stood up and undid the button of his khakis, never releasing from Anya’s gaze. He stepped out of the pants and lay back down, covering Anya’s body with his. He lowered his mouth to her breast. Anya’s sweet flesh ravaged his senses and he fought for control. He never tasted anything quite as exquisite. Encircling her nipple with the wet smoothness of his tongue, he lingered, changed pattern, pace, and direction, making Anya moan in delight. And when he caught her nipple between his teeth, Anya gasped. “Steffan,” Anya said in an erotic delight. She trembled slightly in his hands. Steffan sucked more of her into his mouth and moved to ravish her other breast. Anya opened her legs wider and tilted her pelvis to brush against his hardened shaft. Steffan responded in a slow pumping motion into her hot center. He explored each breast with his mouth before starting his descent down her body. Anya’s body was now trembling. “Anya, my love. Are you scared? Do you want me to stop?” “No. I’m not scared. I just can’t control my body, Steffan, I don’t know why. Please. Don’t stop. I know you wanted to wait, but I want you to make love to me. I need this. I need you inside me.” “Oh, I can’t stop, my darling. I want you to see me love you. I want you to feel me inside you,” Steffan responded breathlessly as he continued his exploration of her body. He pulled her skirt down her body and snaked it around her feet, freeing her of the garment. He balanced on his elbows as he positioned his head between Anya’s legs. He traced the outline of her thong

Veil of Seduction

161

and gently curled his finger under the material, running his knuckle along her moistened heat. “You are so wet. I want to taste you.” Anya gasped for breath. “Taste what you’re doing to me.” Steffan moved the material to the side and exposed Anya’s most intimate flesh for his eyes. He ran his tongue up and down her plump folds and slowly sunk his tongue inside her. Anya moaned in deep pleasure. She dripped with sweet juices just for Steffan as he explored her freely. Steffan reached for her thong and gently removed it from her hips and down her legs, allowing free access to her most private area. Steffan buried his tongue back into Anya with a deep-seated need. He planted kisses all around her folds and then centered his attention on her clit as he focused on Anya’s eyes. Anya cried out in ecstasy then bit down on her forearm to stifle her cries. He continued to ravish her very center as he plunged his fingers into her, changing the rhythm of his exploration. Steffan retracted his fingers and slowly stood up. He dipped his glistening fingers deep into his mouth, running his tongue up and down, licking up the traces of Anya. Steffan stood tall over Anya, His chest heaved and his breath quickened. Slowly, his hands moved, making their way to the waistband of his briefs. Anya’s eyes focused on him with an unwavering intensity. The look of raw desire in a woman’s eyes was nothing new for Steffan. But something more than lust-filled emotion sparked in Anya. It lured Steffan deeper into her spellbinding gaze. There, in Anya’s eyes, Steffan saw his own reflection. Anya was his destiny. Unsure or not, Anya was going to know he was a vampire and he was going to start the ritual. Now. Inching down his briefs, Steffan slowly revealed his thick cock to Anya. He stepped out of the briefs and ran his hand up and down his shaft. “Oh my god,” Anya said breathlessly as she measured up Steffan. Steffan lowered back to Anya and positioned himself at her opening. He sat back on his heels and ran the head of his cock up and down her wet pussy. Anya quivered uncontrollably. She arched her back, jutting her breasts in the air and pushed against Steffan. She was ripe. She was ready.

162

Maya DeLeina

Steffan grabbed the quilt and draped it over his shoulders. As he settled back in place over Anya, he looked deep into her eyes, his strong arms stabilizing his body. “Anya, you must listen to me.” “Yes, Steffan?” “I’m sorry to have scared you this evening. I wanted to reveal things slowly to you, but I need you to know everything now, before we become one.” “Whatever it is, I’m yours.” “I’ve waited my entire existence for you. Something inside made me yours long before we even met. I discovered our fate through touch. It told me everything you’re made of is a match to me—with what I am. It’s what set the wheels in motion, why we dreamt of each other before meeting, why we feel so drawn to one another.” “What are trying to say? What do you mean, what you are?” Anya whispered. “Everything you witnessed tonight is just a part of my existence.” Tell her! Tell her now! Steffan bellowed in his mind as he looked deep into her eyes. “Anya, I am…immortal.” Steffan searched her eyes intently for a reaction. Please don’t scream. Please don’t be afraid of me. “Vampire,” Anya stated as a matter of fact. “Yes.” Steffan couldn’t believe that word had already made an appearance. “And my dreams of you, this all happened because we’re fated to one another?” Anya asked. Steffan stammered in response, “H–How did you know?” “I read vampire books. I know.” “Most of that is garbage.” “But I’m right, aren’t I? We are fated mates?” “Yes,” whispered Steffan. “Then some of my readings do ring true.” “It would appear so.” “This is why I dreamt of you, why I had a physical connection to you before we even met.”

Veil of Seduction

163

“Yes,” Steffan said. “Is this why I’m completely in love with you and you don’t feel like a stranger to me?” “Yes. All of it goes the same for me. You are not a stranger to me. You have all of my love and my heart. You are my mate. I searched for you since 1917. You asked me how I know when it’s love. This is why.” Anya reached for Steffan’s face and brought his lips to hers. Tongues entwined and delving deep into one another, they kissed with great intensity and passion. The kiss was unlike any Steffan had experienced before. To say it had emotion was trite. He felt the kiss deep in his core, transporting his senses, engulfing him in a dreamlike state. The world faded away. It was if they’d slipped through a chasm, freeing them. No loneliness. No hurt. They reeled in endless space, the sound of their open hearts telling of their simple and undeniable love. The kiss branded them. And with that, their sudden love was wild. Releasing from her mouth, Steffan pushed against Anya and positioned himself at the crest of her opening, gazing deep into her eyes. “You accept what I am and who I am, knowing what will become of you?” “Yes.” “Why aren’t you afraid, Anya? I imagined this being a lot harder to explain.” “Steffan, I am afraid. Terrified, really. I never believed there were actual vampires out in the world, but I always fantasized about them.” “You fantasized about being a vampire?” “I fantasized about immortality. The idea of living forever is something I think about constantly. All I have known is the finality of death. I lost everyone I truly loved in this life. Immortality—if somehow it was real, they would still be with me today. But they’re not. I’m so lonely, Steffan. I am all alone. I feel lost. And then here you are. You come along, like something I was meant to find, and I feel whole again. I can’t begin to explain this hold you have on me.” “Anya, do you believe in the afterlife.”

164

Maya DeLeina

“I–I.” Anya struggled with her words. “No. Heaven or hell, I don’t believe in it. I know it’s not a popular belief, but this is how I feel. I believe that there is just blackness, like the flame extinguished and no one, nothing can rekindle it.” “If darkness is all you think about, you must fear death. Being immortal, does this free you from your fear?” “Yes.” “And when you said you were terrified, is this what you meant? Terrified of death?” Steffan questioned. “I really meant that I am terrified of becoming like you. I don’t know what to expect. I mean, I don’t really know if I am even in the right state of mind right now. Vampires? Immortality? You have my mind in a fog. But all I left in me is faith in fate. You feel like my fate.” In that moment, he realized he was looking into the eyes of a mind made up. Conviction, acceptance, resolve—they all converged, taking up permanent residence in her very soul, just for Steffan. “Anya, I want to make love to you, claim you.” “Make love to me, Steffan. Claim me, I’m yours.” Steffan’s breath was deep and heavy as he prepared for the moment. “Don’t take your eyes off of me.” Steffan slid himself through Anya’s moistened folds, slowly filling her. He stretched her wide as she wrapped around his cock like a glove. “Steffan, oh my god!” Anya screamed with a hint of discomfort in her voice. “It hurts, I don’t know if I can do this!” “Relax. Let your body form around me. I’ll go as slow as you want or as hard as you want. You tell me what you need. I want you to only feel pleasure,” Steffan whispered and slowed his entry. He was absolutely careful with Anya. His innate instinct wanted him to take her wildly, but he reminded himself that she was still human, still frail. She could shatter in pieces underneath him with one move. Once the claiming was executed and Anya was transformed, they could be together in a primal, untamed escapade. With each gentle pulse, Steffan felt Anya relax. Carefully, he inched himself deeper into her until he was buried completely. He slowly retracted and pumped into her again, feeling her body accepting his entry with every delicious plunge.

Veil of Seduction

165

“You feel so good. Give me more,” Anya said in a throaty and seductive tone. Steffan’s heart was filled with bliss. Her heart accepted him, and now her body accepted his entry, his permanence in her very core. He thrust into Anya with a deeper need as their eyes remained fixed on each other. “Let me love you, Anya. Let me give you everything I have in me. Accept me as your mate. Give yourself freely as mine.” “I do and I have.” A blistering heat travelled along Steffan’s jaw and filled his mouth with an insatiable need for blood. His sharp teeth broke through their protective membrane and descended as his body continued exploring her depths. “Steffan, harder. I want it harder,” Anya said as she pulled Steffan in close to whisper in his ear. “You want it hard, my love?” “Yes.” “You will feel pleasure you’ve never experienced before, but you must promise to let me know if I hurt you.” “Promise.” “Remember that I love you, and do not be afraid.” “Afraid of what?” “This.” Steffan reached under Anya’s legs and firmly grasped her buttocks. He spread her legs wide over his arms as he lifted her straight off the ground. Steffan sat back on his heels and impaled Anya on his cock. They both moaned in unison. “Grab a hold of my neck and don’t let go,” Steffan commanded. Steffan’s strong arms lifted Anya and his cock pounded deep into her over and over again with a relentless passion. “Oh, Steffan, take me!” Anya panted. A pleasurable burn ignited in Steffan’s eyes as they turned red with his desire. Kneeling before her, Steffan laid Anya’s head back to the ground and tilted her hips upward to his crotch. He plunged deeper, rougher, and faster into her. Anya looked up and caught Steffan’s gaze. At first, she seemed shaken by the red that gazed back at her, but quickly settled in his stare.

166

Maya DeLeina

Tears welled in her eyes. “I’m coming, Steffan, I’m coming.” The time was here. Steffan would start the claim at this moment. His entire existence, from his turning to the first time he and Anya laid eyes on each other, flickered like an old projector in his mind. Steffan collapsed on Anya, burying his head at her neck to search out his mark. He drew his head back slightly and then came down on her flesh, sinking his teeth deep into her. Anya shrieked at the initial pain but soon, noises of pleasure escaped her body uncontrollably as the tears streamed down her face. Steffan continued to thrust deep inside her but slowed his rhythm to a sensual grind. Sweat that once beaded along Anya’s inner thighs now trickled down, pooling where his flesh met hers. Writhing and moaning, the moment was pure ecstasy. From the moistened depths his cock plunged to the sweet taste of her blood coating his tongue, Steffan relished every pleasurable sensation that fired through his body. “Oh, my god,” Anya moaned in a decadent whisper. Suddenly, Steffan’s body stilled. He swiped his tongue along the puncture marks, sealing Anya’s neck. He pulled back, steadying his body over hers. Looking deep into her eyes, he saw a woman fully sated. Anya gathered a drop of blood from the corner of Steffan’s mouth with her finger and dipped into his mouth. He lapped up the remaining droplet of her blood eagerly and lowered to capture her lips in a passionate and sensual kiss. Then Steffan moved his hips once again. Commanding and powerful, he took her hard. He released his mouth from their intimate exchange and gasped for breath. “Anya, are you ready for me?” “Yes. Come inside me, Steffan” “Watch me. See what you do to me.” Steffan looked deep into Anya’s eyes as he made love to her. This was his mate. Her blood coursed through his body. Her taste was on his lips. And her pussy deliciously swallowed his cock.

Veil of Seduction

167

It was a pleasure beyond expression, further than anything he’d experienced. He stroked in and out of Anya, increasing his momentum, growing closer and closer to his climax. “Oh, Steffan!” Steffan grabbed Anya’s face and gazed into her eyes. “Anya!” he cried out as he spilled his hot liquid fire deep inside her. His moans of absolute gratification were loud and deep. Yet the moment went beyond sating sexual desires. In this moment, Steffan and Anya’s eternity was paved. Steffan completed the first step of the claim ritual.

168

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Thirteen “I can’t believe what just happened. We’re out in public. What would we have done if someone came along the path? We were so vocal,” Anya said as she lay on Steffan, brushing her fingertips through the traces of black hair on his chest. They lay naked under the quilt, their bodies entwined, fully sated, reminiscing about their lovemaking. Anya suddenly gasped at her next thought. “Or worse yet, what if some pervert watched us?” “Let’s just say I left nothing to chance. No one was coming around. No one would hear us. No one would see us.” Steffan adjusted to deepen his embrace around Anya. “And if someone was able to break through my boundary, I would’ve sensed them well before they even had a chance to near us, hear us, or see anything.” Steffan suddenly closed his eyes tightly and his body went rigid. “Wait! Oh no!” “What? What is it?” Anya lifted to look at him. “Anya, I do recall something. I remember seeing…” Steffan held a long pause. “Three deer and a squirrel!” He opened his eyes and laughed. Anya playfully slapped his chest. “That’s not funny. What is a boundary?” “I have the ability to project a mental barrier, like a barricade, around us for protection. You know how some humans claim to have a premonition or a sixth sense about something? That’s the effect of a boundary spell from a vampire. Something inside the mortal tells them not to go in a certain direction, to deviate from a plan or path. The boundary also acts like a mirror, camouflaging us into the natural landscape.” Anya propped herself on one elbow and looked into Steffan’s eyes. “But what if someone was still able to get around all of that, was watching us,

Veil of Seduction

169

seeing me on display like that? Seeing all of me as I intended only for your eyes?” Steffan’s gaze grew intense, his pupils transforming to a deep-crimson color. “Then, god help them,” Steffan responded in a low, gravely tone. Anya lay her head back down on Steffan’s chest as she wrapped her arm across him tightly. “Steffan, I didn’t realize, I’m—” “No.” Steffan stopped Anya, not allowing her the chance to apologize. He closed his eyes tightly, trying to still the anger that boiled within at the mere thought of someone watching his Anya. “Don’t apologize, Anya. This is something I will have to control. I need to react only when there’s a reason to, otherwise I’ll drive both of us crazy. I never had a mate before, and all of these emotions I have are so new to me. Some of my reactions will be purely instinctive. Raw.” “What are you saying?” Anya questioned. Steffan regained control and opened his eyes. Anya released a deep breath in satisfaction, signaling to Steffan that his silvery eyes were back in place. “When a male vampire is courting his human mate during the claim, a defensive instinct kicks in. Centuries ago, before we became civilized, before we built communities, family structures, laws, and rules, a human mate who had willingly accepted the claim and began the ritual process was a target for all lone male vampires. You emanate a strong scent now that we have started the process.” “So, what happened with your eyes? Was that like a defensive mechanism?” “You could say that. When certain emotions are heightened in a vampire, they’re projected in our eyes,” Steffan explained. “That was a much different shade of red than what I saw earlier when we were, you know,” Anya responded. Her cheeks were flushed and rosy as she recalled their lovemaking. Steffan smiled. “The red you saw earlier when we were making love was a bright red. That shade of red projects when I’m overwhelmed with desire and love. The crimson you just saw now was a deep red tinged with black. This projects in times of anger and hatred.” “What about other emotions, what colors are projected?”

170

Maya DeLeina

“Actually, nothing. The emotional boundaries of love and hate are boundless, endless, so these are the only two to emotions to have a sensory reaction in our body. The only other times our eyes change color is during our initial turning. The sclera is altered momentarily and can suggest the character we inherit from our human existence.” “Wow! Really?” Anya exclaimed. Steffan rose up on his elbows. “Yes. My love, you will be learning all about this during our claim.” Anya nodded. “All right. But please don’t leave me hanging with this being a target for a lone male vampire thing. That wasn’t a very consoling thought.” “What we just did, our lovemaking, makes you very vulnerable. But rest assured you’re safe with me. Basically, our scents have combined and have been laced in your blood when I drank from you. It’s meant to let other vampires know that you’re a willing participant to the claim and are spoken for. But in reality, it’s like a homing beacon for lone male vampires out there. Your blood is now the most sought-after nectar for any unmated male vampire because of its divine sweetness.” Anya gasped. “What?” “This is exactly why you saw the scary eyes just a minute ago. My body is laced with ancient blood, and the primal instincts to protect you and to be leery of any male contact will be tested from here on out,” Steffan explained. Anya’s voice became anxious. “But, you have that barrier thing you can do.” “Boundary. It only works on mortals. But I can immediately sense a male vampire who is lingering, waiting in the wings, unless he has the ability to shield. If he can shield, sensing him is a little harder to detect, but still very possible for me. ” “Shield?” “There are vampires who possess the ability to go undetected by shielding their thoughts, intent, or even their mere presence from other male vampires.” “Okay, but there are laws and rules nowadays that prevent this, right?” Anya asked, longing for reassurance that she was not in eminent danger. “Yes, of course. But laws and rules, like anything else, are developed for order and are followed by those who respect civility. There are still

Veil of Seduction

171

rogue vampires out there. They are the vampires who roam without a family. They do not respect the laws or the orders our kind have created. They choose to live among society as we once did in the early years of our existence as ruthless, feared monsters.” Steffan could feel Anya’s hold on him tighten though she remained still and quiet. He sat up and leaned against the boulder, pulling Anya tight in his arms. “Anya, I would never let anything happen to you. Rogue vampires stay away from areas where there are family units. They know family units are strong and that we carry out the laws and orders of our society. And for our family in particular, we are considered a very formidable lair.” Steffan looked down into Anya eyes. “I am the leader of the family here in Manitou. I have us embedded just about everywhere in the community, law enforcement, hospitals, you name it. We’re even deeply entrenched in politics and the media. I have it this way so we can detect any possible vampire activities. All of this is to protect our family, to protect the humans and to protect our identity. The family, they have all pledged an allegiance to me and the orders I set forth for us to remain civilized. You are not only protected by me, but you’re very well protected by the entire family.” “You are the leader of the families here in town? H–How many of you are there?” Anya stuttered in shock. “Seventy-four. Soon to be seventy-five, I’m happy to report.” Steffan winked as he moved to give Anya a peck on the lips. “I’ve always felt a connection to this town even though I lived way up north. I intentionally looked for a studio near here. I love the atmosphere, the people, and the mood. I don’t know. I’ve always felt comfortable here. Maybe that was part of our fate drawing me to this place. I was drawing me to you.” Steffan smiled. “What exactly are the rules, the order you talk about?” Anya inquired. “All lairs set their rules along the same lines, respect for human life and order, guard against attacks, safeguard against mate abduction and manipulation, and protection of our identity. All families have the same set of consequences for the offense, although the final method of punishment can vary from lair to lair. You’ll learn all of this in depth after your turning.” “I’m curious, though, what if someone breaks the rules?”

172

Maya DeLeina

“For the most serious offenses, it’s death.” “But you’re immortal, you can’t die.” “Being immortal means we stop aging, are immune to diseases and have the ability to repair our bodies if something happens, which basically allows us to live forever. But we can definitely expire if anything happens to things we need to sustain our functions.” Anya looked at Steffan. A sense of disbelief held her features. “Again, we have all the time to go over this, my love. Right now, I want to get you home. Our home.” “Our home? Mr. Matthews, are you asking me to move in with you?” “Anya, you are my fated mate. We have started the claim. Quite soon, in a matter of hours in fact, we’ll start experiencing eternal cravings for one another that will consume us. We won’t be able to part with one another. It is part of the ritual. The process is meant to promote bonding and protection of the mates. Even though the process is not yet complete, it’s the human equivalent of a marriage.” “Well then. That was probably the quickest courtship I’ve been through,” Anya responded. She immediately appeared to drift into deep thought. Steffan searched Anya’s eyes. Damn. It hasn’t taken effect yet. I can’t hear what she’s thinking. “Huh. Marriage?” Anya asked. “The existence of vampires doesn’t make you flinch, but marriage does? You have doubts in marriage?” Anya’s vacant look slowly illuminated to a smile. “No. None. It’s just that marriage conjures up bad memories for me.” “Anya, I was married once. My wife was Arianell. I lost her years ago. I went to find her after I was transformed. When you turn, you lose most of your human past. The only recollections you have are to things that you held true in your heart. For me, I loved Arianell with all of my heart, everything I had. She was the only thing that consumed my thoughts after I turned. When I returned to her, as a vampire, I discovered she’d died in childbirth. ” “God, Steffan, I’m so sorry. What of the child?” Steffan shook his head. “My son only survived for a few hours after the birth. I lost my entire family in an instant.” Steffan paused as he recalled Arianell’s face. “I know what you went though with your husband’s death. I

Veil of Seduction

173

know how you feel. The hurt was so strong. For me, I never thought I would want to love again. Over time, though, I realized I have so much more of myself and my heart to give to someone. I love being in love. I love being loved. So I searched for years. And here we are.” Steffan and Anya held each other close, quiet in their exchange. No words were spoken. Their embrace exposed all that they meant to one another. “You only remember people, events, and things in your life that you held true in your heart.” Anya quoted Steffan, breaking the silence of the moment. “Correct.” “So, what you are saying is that if your heart truly didn’t hold a place for people in your life, they won’t transfer as a memory to a vampire existence?” “It gets a little complicated, but yes, it’s something along those lines.” “Huh.” Steffan watched Anya’s face transform through different emotions in a matter of seconds. And while he wanted to ask a million questions of her looks, he let the moment pass, deciding self-reflection is what Anya needed. **** The soft light of the mirror on the passenger seat visor pierced the darkness. Anya stretched her neck to examine the area where Steffan had made his entry. Nothing. No scar, no mark, no trace. She ran her fingers up and down her flesh, noticing that the sensation of merely tracing the area sent waves of pleasure coursing through her. “Shit!” Steffan grabbed her hand in concern as he momentarily took his eyes off of the road. “Anya?” “Sorry. It’s just that my neck is very sensitive. But in a good way.” Steffan smiled. “Tell me, did I hurt you at any time? I know it got a little out of control for a second there.”

174

Maya DeLeina

“No. And, Steffan, don’t get me wrong, I crave the intimacy of slow lovemaking. But I also love being seduced, taken, and ravished beyond control.” “I’m definitely keeping that in mind.” “I know you said it happens in stages. But am I a little like you now since you bit me?” “No, you’re still very human. What we did tonight allows me to mark our claim, and slowly, I’ll be able to her your thoughts. One day soon, we can communicate telepathically. By the way, I don’t know why movies and books depict us as ‘biting.’ I don’t think what we do is anything like biting at all. We drink from people by puncturing the flesh, sucking up the blood, and sealing the wound instantly.” “So when you drink from someone, you don’t necessarily kill them?” Disappointment washed over her. She had a little fantasy brewing. If she somehow remembered Ryan after the turning, she would seek him out with the help of the new abilities she would gain as a vampire and suck the life right out of him. Damnit, he will one day hear my thoughts! Anya reminded herself to start practicing control within her thoughts. “We never kill anyone we feed on. Just as I did with you, that’s how we feed on humans. That is, minus the sex. And we enthrall them after the feeding so they don’t remember any of it. With you, I want you to remember everything that I did to you, so no enthrallment, little lady.” The thought of Steffan’s mouth on another woman’s neck sent a spark of jealousy burning through her. “Is it the same sensation, drinking from feeders and me?” “No. Drinking from you was very different. It’s like your chocolate mousse tonight. If you had bought it in the store, it still would’ve tasted good and would satisfy my sweet tooth, but because you made it, the texture, the richness, the depth of the ingredients mixed together burst with a flavor that was beyond description. It satisfied my craving and left me wanting a more helpings.” “More helpings? You went into convulsions from my mousse.” Anya stated in a playful tone. “You got me there. But it wasn’t caused by the mousse, I’ll explain that one. You get what I am trying to explain here?”

Veil of Seduction

175

Anya smiled at the comparison, clearly understanding the difference he had experienced drinking from her. “I get it. When do I become like you? How does this happen?” “The ritual is called ‘the claim.’ It happens in three stages. It’s not meant to be rushed. We completed the first stage tonight. In the second stage, I will drink from you again and will infuse more of my blood in your veins. But this time, I’ll drink from a different artery, a much stronger artery. The last stage, I’ll drain you of most of your human blood and you’ll drink from me, filling your veins with our infused blood. Your transformation then will begin” “Will it hurt?” “Yes. This is the one thing I regret that you have to go through. But the wine you loved so much tonight? I shared that with you because it’ll help minimize the pain during the process. I want you to continue to drink this as we go through the ritual.” “The wine? Why would alcohol help in the process?” “For anyone else, the wine would taste like vinegar. It’s laced with my blood, Anya. Because you’re my fated mate, it’s probably proven to be the best tasting wine you ever had.” “I finished almost two bottles. Of course the taste was excellent. But you allowed me to drink blood without telling me? Why would you do that?” “I’m sorry, but it was with good intentions. I don’t think you would’ve tried it if I told you it contained blood. But if you were going to agree to become my mate, I wanted to give you everything that would help the transformation go more smoothly for you.” “Why wine though? Wouldn’t I get the same effect if I drank from you directly? I mean, I sucked on your finger when you cut yourself and consumed your blood.” “And that’s why I had to stop you. Fresh blood is too potent for you right now. The potency of the blood is lessened in the fermentation process when the yeast begins to digest the sugars in the grapes. And just like carbon dioxide and alcohol are by-products of the process, the essential components of my ancient vampire blood are suspended in the wine to effectively introduce my blood to your system while decreasing the potency so your body won’t go through an automatic rejection.”

176

Maya DeLeina

“How many bottles of this wine did you make?” “There’s an entire cellar. Eilian and I have to make new batches every year. Aging takes two years in order to create the perfect balance. Once it goes past two years, we dump them all and start all over again. We’ve been doing this for almost six years now since we discovered the process, and I never broke open a bottle for anyone in that time.” “Well, I suppose I’ll have another bottle this evening when we get home.” Steffan smiled, and Anya rested her hand on his leg. The faint light of the evening sky washed down on his face through the sunroof, illuminating his handsome profile. Steffan remained fixed on the road, negotiating the Hummer through all of the curves in the road that wound through the mountains. Anya’s eyes focused on the large sunroof that was open, allowing the evening breeze to float above them. She closed her eyes and took in a deep breath. The air smelled like an herb garden as hints of sage and lavender mixed beautifully with the strong scents of evergreen and eucalyptus. Anya stretched her arms upward through the sunroof, sending her hands to capture the crisp air on her skin. The wind danced through her fingers, and she motioned them against the air stream. She pulled her hands back into the vehicle and placed them on her face, soaking in the sensation her frosty hands created. Her gaze traveled around the interior of the car. Out of the corner of her eye, she focused on Steffan’s sunglasses which hung from his visor. She glanced back up at the sunroof and then back to the sunglasses. It finally dawned on her. “Wait! I’ve seen you in the sunlight, and you consumed human food! A vampire isn’t supposed to have the ability to do this, right? And what exactly happened to you tonight?” “I was wondering when you were going to ask.” “Oh forgive me. You know, it’s quite a bit to process, let alone get all of your line of questioning in a row when the man you love reveals he’s a vampire. I mean, questions keep bouncing in my head,” Anya responded, a twinge of sarcasm laced in her words. Steffan smiled at her inquisitive nature and candid remark. “You know, most vampires who turn cannot remember their human name, so they’re

Veil of Seduction

177

bestowed with a name from their maker. As much as I love the name Anya, I may have to consider Terrywn for you.” “And what is the significance of that name?” “It means fair and brave tongued.” Steffan chuckled. Anya glared in his direction. “Are you going to get to the entire sunlight and eating deal?” “Oh yes, apologies.” Steffan continued, “Shortly after our turning, Eilian and I questioned why we could no longer live in sunlight and began exploring ways to enjoy the sun again. Fifty-five years after that conversation, in 1973, we developed sds120 injections or ‘spectrum defense system.’ The 120 related to the twohour window the injection allowed us to be safely out in the sun. Over the years, we’ve perfected the serum to now last up to six hours. Today, we manufacture and mass-produce it under its marketed name ‘Defender,’ for our vampire family as well as other families for purchase.” “So you’ve been on these injections for many years now?” “Actually, no. I only started using them when I discovered our connection. Using the Defender serum has a side effect of diminishing abilities in some vampires. I didn’t want to leave anything to chance, so I never used it. I needed all of my abilities and senses to be sharp since I was looking for you.” “And what about consuming human food and what happened tonight?” “We also developed and now mass-produce a compound we call ‘Consumption.’ It allows us to safely consume food and liquids for up to six hours. The pill releases enzymes and acids and acts as a temporary gland to digest food. We lose these processes during the turning, and our digestive tract is transformed into a simple mechanism. Blood is the only substance that we can consume that can easily pass through our tissues with no processing. What happened to me with the fever and the convulsions was a result of my carelessness with time and not realizing I was no longer protected. My body was fighting to do something it wasn’t equipped to do.” Anya smiled. “So I would be able to retain and enjoy some of the things of my human life because of this?” “Absolutely. The only obstacle is moving every so often before people start to question why we’re not aging.” “How long have you been here in Manitou?”

178

Maya DeLeina

“I had Ambrose Heights built while my immediate family and I lived in Vienna. We physically moved here about nine years ago. We already have a site picked out and are going through negotiations as we speak to acquire land in the New England region. After that, we’re off to Tuscany, unless you have somewhere else in mind.” “New England? Tuscany? I don’t have any problems with that. Where else have you lived?” “Well, we always move close to mountains. Eilian and I first moved to the Scottish highlands after our turning. Then it was Russia, Thailand, Nepal, Austria, Ecuador, Alaska, and then Colorado. We typically take up residence between ten to fifteen years in each place. Any longer and people will start to talk.” “How did our tiny town of Manitou get on the family’s radar?” “We first took up residence in America about nineteen years ago. We vacationed, you could say, in many states, to get a feel of the areas. We liked Colorado. But as far as choosing Manitou Springs itself, I really can’t tell you how it became a possibility. I awoke one day and there it was, popped straight in my head. I did research on the internet and was fascinated with the town.” Anya adjusted in her seat to face Steffan, her eyes inquisitive and demanding. “How old are you?” “Twenty-eight. Quite younger than you, cougar.” Steffan chuckled. “I don’t think a two-year difference constitutes that term, thank you very much.” “Two years? Really?” “Okay. Three. Happy?” Steffan was about to sound off another slang he had learned when Anya stopped him midbreath. “Puma, MILF, Cougar in Training, Cheetah, Lynx, Manther, Cougarlicious—I get it. You learned your modern-day slangs. You know what I meant with the question. Now, how old are you?” “Ninety-five.” “Ninety-five? And you’re using the Internet, grandpa?” Steffan shook his head and smiled. “We are very adaptive to human devices and technology. Our way of speaking, the way we carry ourselves, our clothing, and even our views and reliance on things, all of that is learned. It’s our method of evolution, if you will, to blend in with the times.”

Veil of Seduction

179

“Okay, I understand the need to keep current with clothing, devices, and technology, but really a way of speaking is adaptive also?” “Think about it. Your pattern of speech, phrases, or slang, you think they would all be in keeping in the times, say in 2050? You think you would go unnoticed if you spoke the same way as you do now?” “I guess not.” “No. You would stand out too much, call too much unnecessary attention to yourself. What we do is study. We’re in a constant state of learning to recognize and blend. We are like chameleons. We change where we are at and the time we are in.” “And how do you learn the trends? What do you rely on?” “For me? I watch some television, news mainly. Then, I go on the internet, read books, and just observe the public. For others, they rely on movies for their learning tool. Take Rhys for example, he loves his ‘shoot’em-up, bang-bang’ movies, so he’s really got the profanities down. And he loves reality shows as well, so he’s up on the modern lingo. Once you meet everyone, listen. You’ll see where the influences come from.” **** Steffan pulled slowly up to the guard shack at Ambrose Heights and flashed a smile at Tobias, the guard on duty. “Good evening, sir, you’re the last of the residents to arrive home. Even that jackass is home. Actually, he never left today. I guess no more hankypanky at the bars tonight for Mr.—” Steffan cast a mental block on Tobias to prevent him from even mentioning Ryan’s name in front of Anya. He didn’t want her to know about Ryan’s transformation until after hers was complete. Ryan’s mere presence could invoke an onslaught of reactions and any emotional break from Steffan at this point could disrupt the ritual. Steffan released his hold on Tobias and allowed him to continue. “Evening as well, ma’am. Shall I secure the gates and retire for the evening?” “Yes, Tobias. That will be all. Get some rest.” Steffan made his way through the gate and came upon Anya’s house on the right.

180

Maya DeLeina

“I need some of my things, just for this evening. Then I can move my things slowly,” Anya said as she prepared to gather her bags from the backseat. Steffan remained silent and drove past the house. “Steffan?” “I know, Anya, but I would like to show you another way to get to your house. I think it’s about time you know.” “Know what?” “You’ll see.”

Veil of Seduction

181

Chapter Fourteen Steffan parked the Hummer in the circle driveway and exited. He walked around to the passenger door to allow Anya to step out of the vehicle. They walked hand in hand up the stairs that led them to the entry door. Steffan opened the door and swiftly lifted Anya off her feet and cradled her in his arms. “Steffan!” Anya shrieked as she was caught off guard. “Welcome home, my love,” Steffan said, leaning in to kiss her. Steffan walked through the entry and kicked the door closed behind him. Anya felt as if she were floating. He walked swiftly and with incredible ease through the house in the darkness. His strength astounded Anya, and she fell deeper into his kiss. Steffan glided up the ornate staircase, never releasing from her lips. He entered through the double doors and slowly placed Anya’s feet on the ground. “Anya, this is our master bedroom,” Steffan said as he slowly illuminated the large room with the adjustment of the dimmer control. Anya gasped as she took in the surroundings. Every detail, from the waterfall of fabric cascading from the overhead canopy, the intricate carved bed, and the exotic tigerwood floors to the floor mirror was exactly what she had seen in her dreams. “Steffan, I’ve been here before, in my dreams!” “Yes, Anya, you’ve been in this very room with me in my dreams as well.” Steffan walked to a large jewelry armoire that sat in the corner of the room next to a vanity and retrieved items from one of the drawers. He slipped his hands in either pocket of his khakis briefly then moved to close the drawers. “But you were wearing these.” Steffan turned around and revealed his hands to Anya. He held a string of pearls in one hand and a black silk scarf in the other.

182

Maya DeLeina

“Face the mirror, my love,” he said in a sensual tenor. Anya’s heart pounded as she stood facing the floor-length mirror. She watched as Steffan placed the pearls and scarf on the floor and settled in behind her. He reached in front of her and slowly undid the buttons on her shirt and let the material glide off her shoulders. He kissed her neck, working on the clasp of her bra, and gently moved the straps around her shoulders. Steffan retrieved the strand of pearls and fastened the necklace around Anya’s neck. The creamy-white pearls beamed off her bronzed skin. Steffan moved to situate the strands so they would plunge down through her cleavage. He cupped her breasts in his hands. Anya’s nipples went rigid in an immediate response. “You are so very beautiful, cariad,” Steffan said as he fixed on her gaze in the mirror. His hardness pressing against her backside. “I need to feel your flesh against mine. I need to be inside you,” Steffan stated bluntly as he unbuttoned his shirt and pressed his chest against Anya’s bare back. Is this the eternal craving he was talking about? She’d wanted to explore the house and retrieve her belongings from her house from the alternate entrance Steffan mentioned earlier, but all of her thoughts were consumed with making love to Steffan. “Don’t worry, we will definitely do more than just explore every inch of your new home,” Steffan said in response. “You heard what I was thinking?” “It was very faint, but yes, the first phase is starting.” “Steffan, I don’t know what to expect from this bonding time. I mean, how far will our cravings extend?” “What do you mean?” “I’m not used to a man who can go more than once in a day. I was in the typical routine of once a week that slowly turned to once a month, if I was lucky. I…I don’t know if I can keep up.” The mirror captured all of her emotions, her reservations about being inadequate as a lover and a twinge of envy of all the other women who had already experienced this with Steffan. Steffan folded his arms around Anya’s waist and pulled her body close to him. His eyes were full of desire and enraptured Anya as he whispered in her ear.

Veil of Seduction

183

“Cariad, you must know that I was never this way with the other women. I am entirely a different lover with you. We are like a drug to each other. This bonding process is new to me as well. Let’s just see where this takes us, and I’m sure our bodies will be able to sustain our needs.” Anya watched the image of Steffan reflecting back at her. He reached into his right pocket and stretched her hand in front of her with his left hand. “Anya. You are my love, my partner and companion.” Steffan slipped a ring on Anya’s left ring finger. It was a perfect fit. Anya’s eyes were wide in astonishment and slowly filled with tears. “Steffan!” She raised her hand to examine the ring. The band was an intricate and endless weave pattern that led to a princess-cut diamond that sat high in a Tiffany setting. “This is the same pattern of your tattoo!” “Yes. It symbolizes karma, a reminder that we are all bound to a destiny and to follow the path of our enlightenment.” Steffan laid out his matching band in Anya’s right hand. “Anya, will you do me the honor?” Anya slipped the band on Steffan’s left ring finger. “Steffan. You’re my love, my partner and companion.” “My love, it’s time for you to concentrate on your mate’s touch.” Steffan bent down to retrieve the black scarf and fixed it gently around Anya’s eyes. He moved in front of her and circled her nipples with his tongue. Anya fisted his hair in her hands as she drew in deeper breaths. He planted kisses down her rib cage that set her into a full-blown tremble as he kneeled in front of her and slowly removed her long, white skirt. She stood shaking in the middle of the skirt’s pooled material surrounding her feet. Steffan ran his hands up and down each side of her. He traced the lace fabric of her thong with his tongue. In one feral move, he bit through the material, revealing her needful and wet pussy. Anya gasped as Steffan lifted her naked body and sat her down on the chaise lounge. He laid her back as he buried his head between her legs. “Oh my god, Steffan!” Anya panted and was in absolute ecstasy from Steffan’s unyielding exploration with his tongue. She concentrated on the sensation of his flickering movements and gasped when his long fingers entered her. He delved into her in a rhythmic pattern. Anya’s toes curled as the fluttering sensation in the pit of her stomach ran down to her pelvis.

184

Maya DeLeina

“What do you want, my love? Tell me,” Steffan growled from between her legs. “I–I want…” Anya was exasperated, unable to form a coherent thought. Steffan thrust his fingers into her harder and faster as he sucked on her clit. “Tell me, what do you want?” “I want you!” Anya managed to voice through her ragged breath. “You already have me.” “No! I want you…inside me!” Anya begged. “Patience, Anya,” Steffan whispered. Anya was quiet in response. The blindfold and his teasing amplified the moment. The pleasure Steffan was giving her was unmistakable, but the experience of being controlled sexually made her lose all sense of reality. Soon, the delicious rapture began. Anya’s muscles were engaging like fiery pistons. Her heat stirred deep in her belly and the numbing tremble in her body started to rise. Her sweet release was just around the corner. “Steffan!” Anya cried out as she climaxed in front of him. It was a new experience. Her eyes were shielded—she couldn’t see Steffan to gauge his reaction in the moment. It forced her to focus on her body alone, relish each euphoric sensation and allow herself to delve deep into the blissful journey. Steffan’s fingers retracted from her pussy, leaving her empty and void. Then, she felt his hand wrap around her forearm, gently pulling and directing her to a seated position. “Taste,” Steffan said, slipping his glistening fingers into Anya’s mouth. He shared in her sweetness as he dipped his tongue into her mouth and lapped at the traces of her on his fingers. Anya and Steffan hungrily feasted on each other, a lustful display of raw emotions. Anya moaned in delight. The sensation of her mouth being devoured by his was pure bliss. He licked, sucked, and nibbled on her like no man ever did. Then, abruptly, Steffan stopped. He pulled his lips and fingers from her mouth. All was silent. All was still The sound of his zipper being undone broke the silence. Suddenly, the soft, velvet-like tip of his cock traced her lips.

Veil of Seduction

185

“Taste,” Steffan commanded. Anya opened her mouth and took Steffan’s cock as he released a deep moan. She concentrated on the feel of every ridge and every vein with her tongue. He tasted salty. She felt him pulsating as he plunged deeper and faster into her mouth. Steffan’s heavy hand splayed the back of her head. He drew her in, demanding her to take in as much of his length she could. Receiving him with some effort, Anya gripped his bare ass to steady herself. “Anya, I need you to see me.” Steffan tore the scarf from Anya’s eyes. He reached under her legs and lifted her from the chaise. “Hang on to me,” he said in a breathless growl. Anya wrapped her arms around Steffan’s neck as he positioned himself at her opening. In one needful move, he pulled Anya to him, filling her instantly. They both groaned in ecstasy. Steffan stood tall, a very muscular and commanding presence as he moved Anya’s body up and down his engorged shaft. “Anya, Anya, Anya.” Steffan panted in a lustful fit. He slowed his thrusts and moved toward the wall. He pinned her back to the wall and ground intensely into her. Noises of pleasure filled the room with a delectable melody. Uninhibited, Anya allowed herself to be as vocal as Steffan. She wanted him to hear her losing control. “Give it to me, Steffan. I want to feel you come inside me!” Steffan growled as his red eyes penetrated right through her. He moved from the wall to the floor mirror and deposited her on the ground. “I want you to see me as I come.” He positioned her for the moment, placing her on all fours as he took his place behind her. “Hold on to the mirror and do not take your eyes off of me.” Steffan thrust hard into her. Anya screamed in delight. He ground his fingers into her hips as he took her. Consumed in the throes of lovemaking, Steffan snaked his fingers through her long hair and pulled. In the reflection, Anya watched her breasts shake and swirl with intensity with each of Steffan’s needful thrusts. “I’m coming!” Steffan screamed.

186

Maya DeLeina He pounded away. One, two, three. He spilled his hot release deep into Anya. ****

In a darkened corner, Ryan stood shielded, watching the lovers’ exchange in its entirety. Steffan did not detect him. Neither Steffan nor Anya noticed that the tunnel entry had been left open as they passed the dining room. They had no indication Ryan was roaming the house. Ryan felt his eyes burning at their display of affection. His blood boiled. Anya was the exotic beauty he’d imagined, and she had nothing but absolute love for Steffan. None of his women ever looked at him the way Anya looked at Steffan. None of his women ever said the things Anya said to Steffan. If Anise were still alive, would he have what Steffan had? Had Anise been just as beautiful and loving as Anya? Anger, jealousy, and envy enveloped Ryan as he slipped out of the darkened corner and exited the bedroom. He made his way back to the tunnel entrance and carefully returned the room to its formal dining setting. **** They remained on the floor, looking up at the ceiling, trying to catch their breath. “Good lord, I’ve never had sex standing up before. That was absolutely…erotic! I don’t know how else to describe it. You’re so strong. Oh my god, these arms, your chest…” Anya said as she traced each body part. “I feel amazing when I’m dominated by you. I love your body.” Steffan laughed. “I’m glad you like my body. It’s yours for a very, very long time. And the standing position is very good. But we have a lot more to explore to see if there’s anything else that comes close to that.” “That we do!” Anya lifted up on Steffan’s chest. “Can we get some of my things? The suspense of what you need to show me is killing me!” “Absolutely, darling.”

Veil of Seduction

187

They dressed quickly, and Steffan led them to the dining room. He punched in the code. “By the way, you’ll need the code to access this. It is 1917.” “Your death?” “I like to think of it as my birth.” The wall gave way, uncovering a secret passage. A faint light highlighted the earthy walls. While it was quite dark, the walls had a glistening sheen from the water that seemed to seep through. Anya stepped in closer. She moved cautiously as she noticed the ground gave way to what seemed like an endless pit. “What is this?” “All the homes here in Ambrose Heights are connected by this underground system.” “No way! So my house has a secret passage hidden in the walls as well?” Steffan nodded. “Did you or anyone ever enter my house without me knowing?” “No. I would never do that, and I would not allow anyone else to do it. You were safe and unwatched.” Steffan pressed a button buried deep in the wall. A rattling noise from below sounded and lights began to flicker to wash the area with light. Steffan took a step into the passage and reached for Anya’s hand. From the darkened depth, an elevator appeared. Anya gasped. “Don’t be afraid, my love, come with me,” Steffan said in a soothing tone. “Is this operationally safe?” Anya asked with hesitation. The elevator wasn’t quite like the ones that would be in a pristine hotel or office building. It was rustic to say the least, a worn metal floor with an open, cage-like surrounding. If anything, it looked like something that was built for an old mine shaft. “I assure you, it is safe. Come.” Steffan left his hand extended, waiting for her to join him. Anya slipped her hands in his and followed Steffan into the elevator. Releasing her hand, Steffan reached high above his head and pulled the cage door down, fully enclosing them.

188

Maya DeLeina

Underneath her feet, the elevator vibrated. Anya stepped in closer to Steffan and held on to his arm. Suspended by a thick series of silver and black cables, the elevator slowly descended from the platform entrance, sinking into the darkened depth. As the elevator car was about to be fully engulfed in darkness, a flicker of soft light suddenly illuminated the top of the cage, washing light along the cavern walls that completely surrounded them. The earthy walls swirled in shades of brown, green, and subtle hints of muted gold. The light caught flecks of shimmer from crystals embedded in the clay. The walls were damp. Long striations etched in the walls added to the sheen captured by the light. Steffan turned to face Anya. He lifted his hands above his head and curled his fingers around the wire opening at the top of the cage. “We use this underground system to move between homes if we’re not on Defender. But my primary purpose in building this subterranean quarter was to maintain and protect our laboratory, manufacturing facility, mass enthrall auditorium, and training room. I didn’t want any of this above ground and have an endless set of issues to worry about.” “Makes sense.” Anya nodded as she rubbed her hands along her bare arms. The temperature had changed. A marked chill danced in the air the further the elevator car delved. Steffan moved, stepping behind Anya, and wrapped his arms firmly around her. He dipped his head and gave her a kiss on her cheek. “You know the English garden maze I have in front of my house, the one you’re always admiring?” “Yes.” Anya turned around to face Steffan. “That also serves a purpose to all of this as well. Throughout the maze, there are access points to and from the mass enthrall auditorium down here. You see, enthralling one or two humans to alter their reality at once is very effective and is immediately embedded in their memory. But once you start adding more than two with a single enthrall, it takes a little longer for the altered reality to set in. If we find we have to enthrall a number of humans at once, we use the auditorium and then release them into the maze. When their minds are engaged on something else, in this case, trying to find their way out of the gardens, their psyches have time to absorb the enthrall.”

Veil of Seduction

189

“So basically, if they are totally focused on something else, they don’t have a chance to question anything as the enthrall is working?” Anya asked. “Exactly. And the deeper their concentration is on something else, the better. Hence the maze. We found that humans are susceptible. Whether it is fear in the feeling of being trapped or the thrill and excitement of trying to figure out the puzzle, everyone’s mind is highly engaged when they’re in that maze.” Anya nodded. “Interesting!” Steffan reached for the elevator control, a simple mechanism that fit in his palm, fashioned with a key insert, sliding lever, and buttons attached to a thick silver coil. Steffan slid the lever position all the way down and pushed a button. The elevator slowed to a crawl, and the lights turned off. Anya was able to make out another light source piercing the darkness from down below. The light slowly penetrated the open-air cage, starting from the bottom and moving its way up as the elevator reached the opening of the subterranean platform. Before they reached the bottom, Steffan spoke, “My house, however, is the only access point to the last facility down here…the Nemesis.” “The what?” “You’ll see. That’s the last stop on this tour before we head to your house,” Steffan said plainly, no enthusiasm or elation in his expression. Steffan lifted the cage and took Anya’s hand. He led her down a long corridor of carved earth, the path illuminated by soft light. The music flowing through the passage was faint, but the ethereal character of the melody was unmistakeable. The end of the corridor opened to a large, circular, vestibule-like passage. Two sizeable metal doors sat embedded in the walls marked with similar symbols above each header, one with the free-flowing symbol, like a figure eight on its side, the other marked with the same symbol, but with a noticeable break in the lines. Steffan looked down at Anya. “That’s the infinity symbol. Everything we need to enhance and perpetuate our existence lies behind this door. This leads to our lab, manufacturing facility, training room and the mass enthrall auditorium,” Steffan said as he pressed a metal button on the wall, sending the door to pivot on its axis. “Come, I want you to see everything.”

190

Maya DeLeina

“But what about this door?” Anya asked, pointing at the second door with the broken symbol. She stood planted in her footing, not budging a muscle toward Steffan. “That is the Nemesis. We will come back to this one. I promise,” Steffan said as he held his hand out for her. Anya moved toward Steffan, placing her hand in his, and made her way through the door that opened to a long tunnel system. Intricate iron candelabras illuminated the tunnel from above. Iron scroll sconces dotted the walls every few feet. The lights were candle-like, mimicking the flickering of an amber flame. Between the wall sconces sat paintings of various mountain landscapes. The paintings were vast in their emotional pull on their audience, all depicting variations in the landscape with different seasons, weather conditions, and time of day. “What do you think so far?” Steffan asked as their stride reduced to a leisurely gait. “Beautiful. What’s with all the mountain-themed paintings?” “They’re all the places we either once resided in or will be establishing residency in one day.” “I see. And I guess the gilded-gold framing on them was to go along with the décor down here.” Anya chuckled. “I can’t help but think I should see some suit of armour, coat of arms, or medieval weapons displayed somewhere in here.” Steffan laughed. “Since you mentioned it, a collection of weaponry is showcased down here, which does include some medieval pieces. The suit of armour is my favourite. This is what the family wanted. I had them vote on how we should decorate this area, and they all wanted an old-world, gothic theme down here. I figured it suited—” Steffan stopped in midsentence and moved in an instant, placing Anya firmly behind him. “What? What is it?” Anya asked, looking at the empty space in front of Steffan and evaluating his sudden change in posture. “Steffan, what’s wrong!” Anya shook Steffan by the arm. “Sorry. I thought I saw something for a brief second.” Steffan was rigid as he stood motionless, staring at the empty space. Steffan eased in his stance, but the air of uncertainty still remained heavy around him. “I guess it was nothing. Damn, this is the second time this has happened to me down

Veil of Seduction

191

here!” Steffan explained, his face marked with apprehension and confusion as he looked at Anya. “Well, what do you think you saw?” Steffan shook his head, his eyes focusing back on the hallway. “Not sure. It was like a flash of white floating by. It was heading toward the hall there.” Steffan pointed to an entry fork in the hallway. “Where does that hall lead to?” “All the homes to the left of mine—Rhys and Brynne’s, Haydn’s, and yours.” “And who has access to this system?” “Well, the entire family is free to come here anytime. I built this for all of us.” Steffan sighed. “Well, it doesn’t look like anyone was here. Maybe it was just a flicker of the lights. Besides, I would’ve at least felt the presence of someone here. Shall we continue?” Steffan led Anya on the tour of the underground system, familiarizing her with each of the rooms and the basic tunnel configuration. They made their way outside to the maze, taking a romantic moonlight stroll through the formal garden. He showed Anya all of the entry and exit points from the garden to the underground passage, each boasting a massive, white marble urn across the aperture. The urns were almost as tall as Anya. Creeping ivy cascaded out of the confines of the urns while white, starlike flowers filled the cavities, perfuming the evening air. Steffan and Anya stepped back into the subterranean quarters and made their way back down the hall and through the metal door that led them to the main passage from his home. There it sat once again, the door with the broken infinity symbol. Steffan stopped at a door and looked down at the floor. “I debated whether I should show this to you now or after your turning, but I think you need to see this.” Steffan paused and then looked Anya squarely in the eyes. “From the broken symbol, you probably already figured out that this door leads to something where an eternity is ended. But the symbol is also meant to signify a new path, a new eternity.” Steffan paused. “Anya, this is where we put vampires to punishment or, in some cases, death.” Anya took in a deep breath. “Is anyone in there now that I have to prepare myself for?”

192

Maya DeLeina

“No, the last rogue we captured extinguished weeks ago. It’s empty and clean now.” Steffan punched in codes on the door. The code was longer than the typical four-digit key that was used to unlock the entire system. “This is the only room with a second locking mechanism, and there are only a few people who have the code to this room.” Steffan flipped on the florescent lights of the room, flickering at the initial illumination. “We obviously did nothing to this room but install lighting and a drainage system in the middle. When the workers excavated the area, they found this cavern tucked in to the mountain. We kept it basically how it was found.” Anya examined the room. It was cold. Water seeped from the walls. “It looks like a torture chamber from the medieval era,” Anya said as she focused on the leg and arm restraints embedded in the cavern’s wall. In the corner sat a modern-day appliance that seemed out of place for the setting. “A fridge?” she asked. “We have Submission injections in there. We don’t mass-produce these or keep them in the lab. It would be deadly if they fell into the wrong hands. We have to use the Submission drug on the vampires who break our laws to diminish their strength. It allows punishment devices to be effective and prepares others peacefully…for death.” Anya continued to survey the room as Steffan’s eyes watched her every move. Anya pointed to the line of objects pushed up against the wall that looked like iron sarcophaguses. They sat in a semicircle toward the back of the cavern, surrounding the large drain in the ground. “Those are the death chambers. You will need to see this and understand why we do this. Come.” Steffan held out his hand for Anya. Anya placed her hands in Steffan’s as they made their way to the death chambers. “Well, you were correct with your initial assessment for this room looking like a medieval torture chamber.” Steffan placed his hand on one of the coffin-like, iron structures. “These are fashioned after the iron maiden.”

Veil of Seduction

193

Steffan released the hinge, and the structure sprung open. Anya gasped and took a step back as she saw the spikes protruding from the cavity of the doors. “Why! Why would you do this?” Anya shouted. “Anya, we have to. This is what I want you to understand,” Steffan pleaded. “To understand that your kind resorts to torture?” “No. That we must take drastic means in order to kill a vampire.” “How…How does this work?” “When these doors are shut, the spikes pierce the body of the vampire while they are pinned in a standing position. This little door up here, by the face, allows us to verify that death has occurred. The blood seeps through these holes at the bottom near the feet, and we slanted the floor in this area so it can drain directly in this system here.” “But why this method? It seems so barbaric! Was there nothing else that could do this more…humanely, like a bullet to the head, stake through the heart, throwing silver on them? ” Steffan shook his head. “Anya, we’re immortal. Our bodies would heal with a bullet in the head or stake through the heart. And the silver? That would do nothing but just piss us off.” He raised his hand to expose his wedding band. “This is made of silver. Don’t believe all you read or see in the movies about us. Silver doesn’t burn or cut us.” Steffan walked back toward the contraption. “We had to understand how we could perish in order to sentence someone to death successfully. Anya, an immortal can perish two ways—by exposure to sunlight and from depletion. Exposed sunlight will burn us, but we didn’t want that out on display in the open, so we had to look at the alternative. We need fluid, blood in our veins, to stay in existence. Depletion is a process where the body expels blood from the system either by drying up and dissipating or by a rapid and massive bleed out. Our blood is what sustains our abilities as vampires. With a rapid depletion process, our body’s repair mechanisms are not engaged, they just sit dormant. Therefore, we can’t heal ourselves.” Anya shook. Steffan put his arm around her shoulders to comfort her before continuing. “Now, we can also heal wounds with our saliva. The healing properties in saliva are still active even during depletion so we had to take that into account as well.” Steffan pointed to the death chamber.

194

Maya DeLeina

“This was the only way, Anya. It causes the massive bleed out, a depletion, and suspends the victim in a standing position so they do not have the ability to use their saliva to heal the wounds.” “How long does it take for them to extinguish, as you say?” “It varies. Some have taken minutes. For others, it was hours.” Anya shuddered at the thought of what a victim would experience in the contraption. “Anya, I wanted you to see this, to understand what the consequences are for breaking the highest of laws. If someone even attempted to take you from me, this is what awaits them. Every vampire in existence knows about this. Even rogues know the form of punishment.” “But how is this all determined? You make the decision on who dies and when?” “In some respect, yes. Each lair has a council of ten. As leader, I am the head of the council. Eilian also holds a position.” “So you all act as judges? No jury?” “The entire family will bear witness to the facts in the case, but there is no true jury. The decision comes down to the council’s vote.” “But how do you determine who is put to death? I mean, if the law is found to be broken, then that’s it?” “We do have a line of definition to determine between punishment and death, but it’s a very thin line. If a rogue has committed the crime and has been determined to be too intrinsic in their ways, where no rehabilitation methods could change them, they are put to this death. The most powerful threat, however, is that of laired vampire who committed a crime using their abilities. You have to remember, there’s no way to rid a vampire of their powers. Death is the only sure way to assure structure, safety, and above all, identity protection. I know it’s not an ironclad system, but it has seemed to work all these years for all of us.” “And families all around the world follow this?” “Yes. All the families use this same method, but the contraptions themselves might look a little different. Every vampire knows of this method of death. No one is above the laws, not even I.” “Well, I do feel a lot safer now knowing the sentence. I can’t see why any vampire would chance anything or go astray, knowing this is the consequence.”

Veil of Seduction

195

Steffan locked up the death chamber and turned to Anya. “I hate coming here. I try to avoid it at all costs.” He led Anya to the exit and surveyed the room once more before turning off the light and locking the door. “Come on, I’ll show you the underground route to the house.” **** Ryan sat still in his leather chair, alone in his master bedroom. He felt his eyes continue to burn, determining that they still glowed in crimson red. His breath remained ragged with rage. He replayed Anya’s and Steffan’s lovemaking in his mind. He closed his eyes tightly and paced the room. No matter what he tried to do, images of Anya burned in him. Her eyes, her smile, her lips, her skin, her scent, and her voice toyed with him. He grabbed his head and screamed in anger. He threw himself on the bed and looked up vacantly. He needed a distraction from his desire for Anya. He needed to be sated. He shot up from the bed and raced downstairs and out the door, keys in hand.

196

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Fifteen Their laughter filled the great room. Steffan and Anya lay naked, draped over one another along the smooth contours of the rock that jutted from the floor. The floor-to-ceiling windows remained uncovered, allowing the moonlight to spill through the room. Steffan groaned. “This rock. It’s not very comfortable.” “I can’t believe you have a rock in the middle of your great room just like mine,” Anya stated. “All the homes at Ambrose Heights are built with this feature. It was my idea,” Steffan explained with a childlike smile splashed across his face. “Neat! It is actually really cool looking. But if it was a heated rock, then it wouldn’t be uncomfortable,” Anya replied with an apparent chill in her voice. Steffan hastily sat up and walked naked across the room toward the expanse of glass windows. Anya propped herself up on her elbows to watch him. He moved with charm, assertion, and utter deliciousness. The sight alone made her reach heat indexes that were immeasurable on any thermometer. Like a cup of hot coffee on a cold winter’s day, the vision of Steffan made her body tingle. No longer was she cold. Steffan moved to the fireplace. With a quick snap of his fingers, the brilliant orange, red, and blue flames came alive. In a mesmerizing rhythm, the flames danced, casting a romantic glow in the room. Steffan reached into a woven basket that sat near the hearth and pulled out a large patch quilt. “Come here, Anya,” Steffan commanded. Anya dismounted the rock eagerly and ran naked across the room on her tiptoes. Steffan wrapped the quilt around his broad shoulders and sat down

Veil of Seduction

197

on the carved daybed positioned to face the windows. He sat sprawled, legs an open invitation and his arms outstretched for her. Anya moved into position. Between Steffan’s legs, she molded against his naked body. He cocooned them in the blanket and leaned back. They sat gazing at amber flames, quiet and content. Anya turned her attention from the fireplace and looked around in wonder. “What’s on your mind?” asked Steffan. “I imagined the interior of the house to be a bit more renaissance or oldworld, you know, to match the exterior of the house.” “One thing about being immortal, you get to see trends come and go and really hone in on what you like. For me, I wanted the house to be very ethnic modern. I love the clean lines and spaciousness of a modern interior along with earthy ethnic pieces. I like to take furnishing from where I’ve lived and incorporate them in my home.” “Ethnic modern, huh? I didn’t see that coming.” Anya yawned and cuddled deeper into Steffan’s arms. “You must be exhausted,” Steffan said as he planted light kisses along the side of her face. “I actually feel good. It must be the adrenaline from the entire day keeping me going.” It was two a.m. On any other night, Anya would be sound asleep. Her mind drifted. She wondered what kind of bedmate Steffan would be. Would he want to cuddle? Did he hog the blankets? Would he snore? Then it hit her. “Do vampires even sleep?” she blurted out. Steffan laughed. “Why yes. We sleep. Our bodies need time to restore and rest just like humans.” “So when do you typically go to bed?” “I’m usually in bed by 9:00 a.m.” “9:00 a.m.? How could you have met me so early in the afternoon? You must be exhausted!” “I didn’t sleep a wink.” Steffan smiled and let out a little chuckle. “It must’ve been the adrenaline in the anticipation of being able to see you once again that keep me going.” Anya smiled. “So, I’m not tired and you’re not tired, right?” “Right,” Steffan responded with a curious inflection.

198

Maya DeLeina

“I know you said it’s dangerous to use Defender back to back, but would it be safe for you to use it now?” “Yes. It’s been it’s been over twelve hours since I last had an injection. Why?” “And you’re able to get around obstacles, like say, a gate for instance?” “I couldn’t imagine it being difficult. My darlin’, what’s on your mind?” Steffan asked. “Would you like to watch the sunrise from the peak? I’ve always wanted to witness that.” “You sure you’re not too tired?” Steffan asked. “Not at all.” **** Steffan took pleasure in dressing Anya in all black from head to toe. Even before he met Anya, he had purchased a closet full of various motorcycle clothing for a future mate, in anticipation of taking her on many rides. “I’m so excited!” Anya blurted as Steffan fixed a neck warmer around her. She was all smiles and could barely keep still. Steffan elected to dress her in heated riding gear for the trip. He even took the time to add hand and toe warmers in her boots and gloves. “Anya! Keep still.” Steffan laughed as Anya kept moving her head to look around the garage while he tried to make final adjustment of her wool beanie. “I can’t help it. Look at all of these!” Anya exclaimed. Steffan looked around the garage. “I know. This is my indulgence, I have to admit. I love riding and each of these provides me with a different experience,” he said as he worked on securing his all-black do wrap to his head. “Can I ask you a question?” “Of course.” “Where does all of this money come from? I mean, I just would like to know if there’s anything else you’re going to spring on me.” Steffan smiled as images ran rampant in her mind.

Veil of Seduction

199

“Anya, our money comes from several legitimate sources, I assure you. First, we profit from Defender and Consumption sales. We sell them to other families around the world. The profits allow us to produce them for our family at no charge. Second, we buy and sell real estate in many states and overseas. This is how we’re able to build our communities well in advance of moving to the area. Third, we own most of the major clubs and bars in Colorado. We buy clubs and bars that are already established where the owners are ever too willing to sell since they’re riddled with problematic patrons. As soon as we take over, we somehow seem to clean house, you could say, and make the venues popular once again. Soon we’ll have another source of income coming in. We’re about to own our first investment-advisory firm.” “And how involved are you in all of the businesses? I mean, are you in the public eye?” “No, I’m really behind the scenes. Eilian and I concentrate on the Defender and Consumption manufacturing. Griffin manages the real estate endeavors while Haydn, Catrin, Rhys, Brynne, Aeron, and Gwynn manage the daily operations of the clubs and bars. Although, when they need my help, I like one club in particular, Zen Grooves.” “You own Zen Grooves? I love that place!” “No, we own Zen Grooves. You are a part of all of this now. You can choose what you would like to be involved in or if you want to start something new. If I could interject my feelings on the subject though, I would much rather have you away from the club scene when I’m not there. Call me protective and overbearing, but it’s just something I would like my mate not to be a part of.” “I get it. I know what you’re saying,” Anya responded. She shook her head. “Hmm…I guess there is much more to get used to in sharing this life with myself and my family—more than just becoming immortal.” Anya sighed. “Right now, I am focused on only our ride here. So which one are we taking? Is it the shiny, red one or the one in the back that looks like a bat?” Steffan’s eyes followed where Anya was pointing, to the Ducati then to his black metallic Versys.

200

Maya DeLeina

“Anya, have you ever ridden before?” Steffan laughed at her childlike enthusiasm. “No.” “I’m curious. Why did you pick those boys there?” Steffan asked as he examined her clothing, zipped her up, and made any other necessary adjustments. “Well, they’re sexy. They look like they go very fast. They look like they would be the most thrilling to ride.” “Actually, those are not very comfortable of a ride for a passenger. And they’re not a very good choice for our ride to the peak of a mountain.” “Oh.” A look of disappointment washed over her face. “No. This is your first ride, and it’s important that you feel comfortable. This will be the best choice for our ride up to the peak. Trust me, your butt, back, and arm muscles will thank me in the end,” Steffan said as he patted the seat of his silver-and-gray Vulcan 2000 Classic LT. “Hmm, why does it sound like you’re using the motorcycles for an analogy to men?” “Because I see it all the time. Women go for the sexy first, not thinking about reliability, joy, or comfort in the long run.” “Ahhh. Well then, Steffan, you would make a perfect bike. You’re sleek and sexy on the outside and oh so comfortable to ride!” “Now I like your analogy!” Steffan laughed. “Look, I’ll make you a deal, after your turning, I’ll teach you to ride one of your fast boys there.” “Deal! By the way, I said that one over there looked like a bat—” Steffan interrupted Anya’s question as he already saw it formed in her mind. “No, we do not turn into bats. We do have the ability to fly and manifest, but we only do this during snowstorms so we won’t be detected.” “You will teach me this?” “Of course. But, first things first. Let’s teach you about being my copilot on this bike. We need to go over a few things to keep you safe.” “Safe? How much safer can I be riding with an immortal?” “But you are mortal. It would be the death of me if something happened to you.” Anya nodded. “Let’s start with hand signals. This means left turn, right turn, and stop,” Steffan said as he demonstrated the signal. “You’ll have to pay attention to

Veil of Seduction

201

the road to see when stops are coming up and which direction it looks like I am going to turn. I’ll also squeeze your shins on the side that I intend to turn in advance so you know.” “Okay. Stop, right turn, left turn. Got it.” Anya motioned the signals. “You’re now an extension of the bike. Taking corners will require some doing. It’s important that you stay in-line with me.” Steffan hopped on the bike. “Get on, I’ll show you what I mean.” Anya settled in her seat behind Steffan. “First, squeeze your knees into my hips so you can feel my movements.” Anya squeezed in response. “That’s not a problem.” Steffan smiled. “Now, imagine there’s a line at each of our shoulders and keep them together. When I take turns, look over my shoulder in the direction of the turn. That is, if I’m taking a left turn, look over my left shoulder.” Steffan simulated the left turn motion, and Anya listened to his directions and responded with the correct movements. “You may have the sensation that you might fall off or tip over, but trust in my movements and the handling of the bike. Don’t try to compensate by keeping your body perpendicular to the road, and do not lean opposite of me. Follow my movements.” “Got it,” Anya said. “If at any time, you want me to slow down, tap my back twice, gently.” Anya tapped his back twice in response. “Yup, just like that.” “Roger,” Anya said as she dismounted the bike, followed by Steffan. “Make sure you never shift your weight or make sudden moves and always keep your feet on the foot rests, even if we’re stopped, to keep the bike in balance,” Steffan said as Anya nodded in response. Steffan mentally went over things in his head to see if he had left anything out. “And brace yourself when I’m coming to a stop. Your head will have the natural tendency to move forward, so for the sake of our heads, try not to bang our helmets together. For the sake of your ass, when we go over potholes or big bumps, stand on the foot rest with your knees slightly bent and allow them to absorb the shock. I’ll do my—” “Good god man, can’t we just ride already?” Anya blurted as she interrupted Steffan from his long, drawn-out speech.

202

Maya DeLeina

Steffan laughed as he reached for Anya’s helmet and fixed it on her head, adjusting the chin straps, “Yes ma’am!” Steffan wrapped up a blanket and tucked it into one side of the saddlebag. On the opposite side, he placed a silver, cylindrical object in the bag followed by another larger blanket. He straddled the bike and started the engine. He reached behind and tapped the seat to motion Anya to straddle the bike. He tilted his head sideways to communicate with Anya. “Hold on to my waist and enjoy the ride. I’ll do a couple of spins down the street so you can get comfortable with the feel.” Anya nodded in response, and Steffan put on his helmet and zipped up his black jacket. The garage door opened. The motorcycle pierced through the stillness of the calm night air. Steffan shot a gloved thumbs-up in the air to see if Anya was ready. From the corner of his eye, he saw Anya shoot a thumbs-up in response. Steffan pulled out of the garage slowly. He made his way down the cobblestone driveway and picked up speed as he hit the residential street. He felt Anya cling tighter to his waist as he accelerated. They rode up and down the street. Anya flashed a big grin at Steffan as he stopped the bike and turned to look at her. “You like the cruiser! I knew you would!” Steffan yelled over the roaring noise of the engine “Very comfy. You were right! But I would still like to try the fast boys one day.” Steffan nodded in response. “Ready, my love? You feel comfortable?” “Ready!” Anya shot and enthusiastic thumbs-up. **** From the confines of their home, Eilian and Catrin were the first at the windows to see what all the commotion was outside. “Anya said yes!” Eilian sighed in relief and turned to Catrin, smiling. They remained at the window, watching the two lovers enjoy their time together.

Veil of Seduction

203

“For all of the happiness he has tried to create for the family, he deserves this happiness of his own,” Catrin said as she nodded in approval of Steffan and Anya’s union. **** Ryan’s head was buried between the legs of a beautiful brunette as he ravished her core. In the distance, he caught the low rumble of the motorcycle and released his hold on the woman. “Hey! Come back here! You’re not finished,” screamed the woman in disappointment. Ryan shot a hand at her without the courtesy of a single word or glance. He stepped to the window and watched as the motorcycle made its way down the street. The passenger got off the bike to unlock the keypad and manually entered the code to open the entry gates since the guards were off duty. Ryan’s sharp eyesight fixed on the passenger. It was Anya. He looked at the driver. It was Steffan. Ryan let out a low growl as he watched Steffan and Anya ride past the gates of Ambrose Heights. “Hey, guy, we doing this or not?” said the woman, naked on Ryan’s leather chair, her legs spread over the arms of the chair. Ryan turned from the window and walked slowly to his bed. He snapped his fingers, and the woman scurried off the recliner toward him in response. She kissed his bare chest and moved her way up to his mouth. He grabbed her by the shoulders and looked into her eyes. He was ravenous with desire. The woman was absolutely stunning with her long hair and piercing, gray eyes. But she was not Anya. He longed to feel Anya’s touch, to be consumed by her rapture. He closed his eyes tightly and saw images of Anya. “Anya,” Ryan whispered in a ragged breath. “What?” questioned the brunette. Before she could voice a correction of her name, Ryan turned her around and bent her over the side of the bed. He entered from behind without care, grinding himself deep and fast inside her. She tried to adjust

204

Maya DeLeina

her position out of the need for comfort from his forceful demand on her. Ryan placed his hand on her back and held her down to the bed. “Don’t move,” he demanded. He kicked her legs farther apart and drove harder into her. His breath was sharp and fast. “Anya,” he shouted as he released inside her. His body shuddered. “Christy. My name is Christy. I’m not Anya,” the woman said sternly as she adjusted to a sitting position on the bed. “I know,” Ryan said as he held on to the side of the bed, trying to regain his normal breathing pattern. He walked to the closet and slipped on a pair of sleeping pants that hung on the back of the door. “What, that’s it? You got what you wanted and nothing for me?” “Out.” “What? Are you serious?” “You said it yourself. You’re not Anya.” “You’re not going to be a gentleman and at least walk me to the car? And this placed is gated! I don’t even know the code!” “The code is on the piece of paper next to your purse. Good night,” Ryan said coldly as he slipped under the covers of his bed and turned his back to Christy. “You’re a fucking jerk!” The woman yelled as she collected clothes and belongings and slammed the bedroom door behind her. **** They rounded the bend, sharing the road with no one. The moonlight glistened on the vast reservoir. The snow-covered peaks glowed against the backdrop of the darkened sky. Anya had never felt more in sync with anyone like she did with Steffan. She reacted effortlessly in her motions as he had taught her. Although the darkness hampered her ability to see the curvature of the road, she was able to anticipate his every movement, sense his gauge of the street. They rolled through the dense forest as it gave way to a stretch of what appeared to be a tree graveyard, the apparent victims of a devastating fire. Contorted, bare branches extended from the trunks, resembling skeletal fingers reaching for the skies. Deep contrasts of black charring and bleached bark dotted the landscape.

Veil of Seduction

205

Further into their journey, the terrain altered dramatically. Paved road gave way to gravel. The path was laden with pinkish-red hues. They ascended above the lushness of the tree line, surrounded now by jagged rocks and gravelly earth that looked like the landscape of the moon. The canopy of stars was vibrant, no artificial light sources to dull their brilliancy. Even in the fading night sky, they sparkled like diamonds. It was a little before 6:00 a.m. when Steffan spotted a perfect area to watch the sunrise. They dismounted the bike and absorbed the splendors of the alpine wonderland. Anya’s breathing was labored in the altitude. “Are you feeling okay?” Steffan asked with concern. “I was afraid of this. I thought living in Ambrose Heights, I would be more acclimated.” “Altitude sickness?” Anya nodded as she braced her hands on her knees and bent over slightly. “It will take me a few minutes to adjust.” Anya tingled with ice-cold perspiration. Her flesh was tender. Her knees felt weak. The pins-and-needles sensation ran up and down her arms and legs. Reaching into the saddlebag, Steffan unscrewed the lid from a silver thermos. “Here, drink this slowly.” Anya reached out for the thermos and sipped the liquid. “Your wine!” she exclaimed as the exquisite taste rang familiar on her lips. “I thought alcohol wasn’t good for altitude sickness?” “It’s my blood that you need. It’ll help you adapt.” Anya took another sip. “I’m feeling better—not so queasy anymore.” Anya shook her free arm and lifted her legs, alternating on each side. “And my legs and arms don’t feel like dead weights either.” Steffan carried the blankets as they made their way to a special outcropping of rocks that he could clearly distinguish in the darkness. Steffan held on to Anya, guiding her down the unlit path, sheer drop-offs within inches of her footsteps. Anya clung to the thermos that held her special elixir. “Why would vampire blood help me adapt to the altitude?”

206

Maya DeLeina

“My blood helped you because the drop in oxygen is actually at the perfect percentage for vampire blood cells. Even suspended in the wine, my blood shifted as we climbed in altitude, providing you with the same healing mechanisms as if it were running through your veins.” Steffan laid out the small blanket on the flat rock and sat down. Anya took her usual place in between Steffan’s legs as he cocooned them in the large blanket. “Since our bodies can no longer digest food, we don’t release toxins in the blood that come from food consumption. Oxygen isn’t needed for detoxification. And since we cannot get sick, we don’t need oxygen to support our immune system. The right percentage of oxygen intake strengthens our concentration and alertness and rejuvenates our inherited abilities. Too much oxygen does exactly the opposite. Our bloodstream and tissues simply cannot process the overload of oxygen energy. This is why we always choose to live in or near mountains as permanent residences.” Anya was in lost in amazement. Her thoughts swirled with all of the possibilities her new life as a vampire was going to soon afford her. She was so engulfed in thought that she didn’t realize the show was about to start. “It’s starting, Anya!” Steffan said in excitement as he pulled Anya closer into his body. Above, the darkened sky slowly settled into a light shade of gray. In front of them, the horizon was on fire. Bursts of orange and gold shot through the depths and vibrated against the elongated clouds that hovered above. The horizon was immense and infinite. Anya turned to look up at Steffan. He sat quiet and wide eyed, the glow illuminating the silver in his eyes. The fire in the sky grew deeper. The faint outline of a shimmering disc permeated the murkiness. Like a piece of coal on fire, it sat teetering on the edge of darkness, slowly revealing its mystery. Time seemed to suspend. Everything was in harmony. All was at perfect peace. It was the hush in the birth of a new day. The ascent continued, sending the heavens ablaze in red, gold, and orange as the cotton-like clouds below swam in an ocean of blue and purple. As the rise reached its pinnacle, long orange rays stretched down to the earth and a spark of purple shot across the horizon.

Veil of Seduction

207

Suddenly, the newness of light revealed itself, affording the day with endless possibilities. “It’s been some time since I’ve seen the sun rise. But none of the recollections I’ve held on to could ever compare to this,” said Steffan.

208

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Sixteen Ryan watched as they slept. He crouched in front of Anya’s lying form, his eyes devouring her. Anya was on her side, her arm extended beneath her, allowing it to suspend in the air off of the mattress. The thin white sheets clung to the curve of her hip. Her bare breasts were left exposed. Her delicious smile left Ryan’s thoughts to wander on the subject of her dream. He longed to touch her. He couldn’t take it anymore. He gently pressed his flesh against Anya’s fingertips. He slid his bare chest up and down, delighting in the feel of her caress. He carefully extended his reach toward Anya’s exposed nipple when Steffan suddenly stirred in the bed. Ryan quickly retreated to the corner of the room. Steffan’s eyes remained closed as he rolled over and molded his nude body next to Anya. He extended his arm, placing his hand on her hip and motioned her to come closer into him. He kissed her bare shoulder. Anya adjusted her body to shape against his. With her eyes shut, she moved Steffan’s hand from her hip to rest around her waist. “I love you, Steffan,” Anya whispered in her dream state. “Love you, Anya,” Steffan responded. Ryan exited slowly from the bedroom. He was consumed with anger and rage. Steffan had interrupted his quiet exchange with Anya. He needs to be out of the picture, thought Ryan as he made his way through the tunnel system leading him back to his house. His breathing was labored and rough. If only Steffan would release his hold on her, he was sure he could make Anya fall in love with him. After all, he was handsome, rich, and successful. But so was Steffan. And on top of that, Steffan had one up on him. He was the leader of the family. Ryan’s anger intensified.

Veil of Seduction

209

What kind of spell did he cast on her? After all, the destiny of fated mates was all talk as far as he was concerned. He felt no bond with anyone in the family, no connection. He thought differently from everyone, he reacted differently than everyone. He was truly an outsider. They could tell him anything and he would be gullible enough to believe it. But not this time. He darted for his master bath and removed his pants with a sense of urgency. He reached into the shower stall and turned the setting on full blast. The rain shower suspended from the ceiling cast a simulation of a torrential downpour. Ryan slipped under the cascade of water, letting massaging droplets envelope him. He closed his eyes, and there she was. Anya was lying in front of him. The white silk sheets casually covered her bronzed body, offering him brief views of her exposed flesh. He reached for the sheet and slowly slipped it from her body. Every curve, every dip of her voluptuous body was deliciously revealed. His hand hovered over her, tracing her outline. He was shaking with anticipation for their flesh-on-flesh contact. He lowered his hand to her ankle, soaking in the feel of her warm, smooth skin. Methodically, he glided his hand upward to her thighs, over her hips and rounded her plump bottom. Ryan moved one of his hands from the shower wall and reached down to grab a hold of his hardness. His exchange with Anya played out in his imagination in vivid detail. He stroked himself rhythmically as he parted his lips and released a deep breath. The force of the water plastered his hair along the outline of his face, creating rivers that streamed down the curve of his jaw and chin, dropping to the pool that collected at his feet. He stood with his legs spread out in the shower. He stroked himself faster. His palm flattened against the tile, his arm taking the brunt of his body weight, steadying himself as his legs shook uncontrollably. He cried out in a thunderous moan as he shot his release. **** It was 2:00 p.m. when Ryan made his first appearance at his company’s newly located office in Denver.

210

Maya DeLeina

“Good afternoon, Mr. Evans, welcome,” greeted Rita, the receptionist who manned the front desk of RPE Investment Advisors. “It’s a pleasure having you back. I’ll let Mr. Adams know you’re here.” The receptionist flashed Ryan a wide smile as her eyes fluttered about. “Ryan, good to have you back, buddy. We were all worried sick about you.” Dale put his arm around Ryan and patted his back. “Thanks, Dale. It’s good to be back.” “We’re sorry about Anise. She was a beauty, Ryan. She was so sophisticated, exquisite, a real gem. How you holding up?” Dale shot a look of concern as he spoke. Ryan shook his head, not quite knowing how to respond. Why can’t I remember her? From the look on Dale’s face, she’d obviously been an object of lust. He had probably once been envied by all men with Anise at his side. Now, their eyes would cast on him, full of pity and sympathy. The rage inside him churned. These last few months, Ryan had been reduced to a shell of vulnerability and weakness as a newborn vampire. He wanted to regain all that was taken when Steffan turned him. He wanted his status and power back. But most of all, he wanted to feel envious eyes on him once again. Anya and Anise, they were identical twins. Anya could be the key, a way to afford him the envy he longed for, and maybe with her by his side, he could regain all that he’d lost. There was no mistake. Ryan was going to make Steffan suffer through the loss of Anya, just as he suffered the loss of Anise. After all, he hadn’t chosen this existence for his life, Steffan had made the choice for him. It was all Steffan’s doing. The men walked down the hall. Ryan effortlessly greeted each staff by name. After the mass enthrallment yesterday, Eilian had provided Ryan with pictures and names of his staff to study, and he delighted that his memory recall was playing out so seamlessly. “How is everything going here? Bring me up to speed. Where’s my office?” Ryan asked impatiently. “It’s right this way.” Dale motioned as they walked down to the end of the hall. “Well, we retained our client base and all of our partners, but that didn’t come without challenges. Also, we couldn’t take on anymore clients.

Veil of Seduction

211

They all wanted to see you for the initial consultation. We had bills to pay, and without new client revenue coming in and not knowing what happened to you, we had no choice but to close the Springs office and work with existing clients by phone and internet.” Ryan entered his office as Dale hung back, allowing Ryan to absorb the opulence of his private space. Steffan had spared no expense with outfitting the room. It was twice the size of his old office. The floor-to-ceiling, glass windows boasted unobstructed views of the cityscape and the mountain range in the distance. A flat-screen TV hovered on the wall above an electric fireplace clad in granite. A fifty-gallon saltwater fish tank served as a separator between the conversation area and his work area. The distinctive scent of new leather permeated the air. Ryan took a seat and sank deep into his leather wingbacked chair. “You did what you had to do, Dale, and we stayed afloat. So, how was everything explained? My absence, the office closing?” Dale took a seat on the leather sofa. “We lied. We had to buy time. You just disappeared. We didn’t know what to do. We said we were working on a newly renovated location and that you were traveling overseas, evaluating emerging investment opportunities. That was just weeks before you resurfaced, and now here we are. As you saw, we lost some of our old staff. They just couldn’t handle the commute. But I think the new staff will fare quite nicely for us. In fact, the managers and I set up a team-building outing yesterday. Too bad you couldn’t have joined us a day earlier.” Ryan smiled. “Don’t worry. I was there…in spirit.” Ryan wasted no time slipping right into his daily routine as if he hadn’t missed a beat, meeting with potential clients, studying the market with his analyst and establishing daily teleconference routines since he would only be in the office two days of the week. He evaluated his team that would be handling the day-to-day operations. The staff was well educated, talented, and qualified to manage the business that bore his initials. Downtown Denver was alive, a mass of people and commotion. Ryan loved the energy and newness the vibrant city sparked in him. Everything was faster, edgier. It kept him on his toes. It moved him with purpose. The people, shops, architecture were modern and hip. Everything about the city seemed to blend right to his very core. But there was also the side of him that longed for the serenity of his retreat, where Anya was.

212

Maya DeLeina

It was a longing he could not ignore. As he settled into his drive back to Ambrose Heights, Ryan glanced in the rearview mirror. The vertical silhouettes loomed against the natural horizon. A light haze hovered over the city, glowing in the setting sun. The drive was quiet. The snow-capped Rocky Mountain Range dotted the landscape to his right. The terrain of rolling hills and endless plains stood on his left. He was still a little less than fifty miles away from Manitou Springs, but in the distance, the peak stood majestic, renewing his sense of calm and tranquility that had faded in the heart of the city. **** Steffan and Anya stood in a perfect stance, facing the wall of mirrors. They were drenched in sweat as Steffan led her through a rigorous session of Kenpo Karate. “Forty-eight, forty-nine, fifty,” Steffan counted. His muscular arms simulated a succession of rapid punches and blocks as Anya followed his movements. Her thighs were on fire from her stance. Her arms ached with every sequence of movement. “Good, Anya!” Steffan changed his position and stood tall with one leg slightly in front of the other. “Ready? Last set, then we rest.” “Ready!” Anya said, breathless, and took the same position as Steffan. “Front, side, back. Front, side, back. Don’t let your leg touch the ground. Fight for balance and stability with your movement,” Steffan instructed. They were synchronized in a pattern of kicks, never letting their kicking legs touch the ground. “Ahh!” Anya sighed as they completed the routine that ended with a rewarding stretching session. “That wasn’t easy, but definitely a fun routine. You do this daily?” she asked as she sat with Steffan on the floor. “I work out at least five days a week, mixing martial arts, weight training, and yoga.” “Those are all physically and mentally demanding. I mean, you’re forced to be so focused. It’s not like running on the treadmill and watching a movie to pass the time.”

Veil of Seduction

213

“Exactly why I do them. Like with karate, I love the theory behind it. It teaches you self-defense without weapons, to be smarter than your opponent. It forces you to allow your body to become a weapon by overwhelming your opponent with methodical and rapid movements in anticipation of their attack. In yoga, mind conquers the body. You have to fight against what your body thinks it cannot do or wants to do naturally.” “I guess weight training is in-line with the same concept too,” Anya said as she wiped away of trickle of sweat from her forehead before it ran into her eyes. “Is tomorrow yoga for us then?” “Yes. And I must say, it’ll be very hard for me to complete the routine with you. Some of the moves will be visually sensual for me.” Steffan admitted with a devilish look in his eye. “Oh really? Like cat stretch maybe?” Anya got on all fours as she tilted her head up to the ceiling and then arched her back, pulling her chest and stomach in. Steffan laid back and propped himself with one elbow on the floor mat. “Yes, that would definitely be one of them. What else?” He encouraged Anya to give him a sneak preview to their session. Anya stood up, her pinky finger nestled between her teeth as she thought of the next move. “Downward dog?” Anya went back down on her hands and knees and pushed upward. Her legs were spread a hip-width apart as her hands held her position in place, her plump ass vaulting high in the air. Steffan tilted his head sideways and examined the triangle form her body took with the pose. “Go on.” “Or maybe you’re a cobra man.” Anya brought her knees to the floor and lay down on her stomach. She pushed up on her hands, raising her chest and head as high as she could go. From the corner of her eye, Anya saw Steffan move swiftly behind her. “Cobra is good. Anything else, my love?” he asked as he crouched behind her. Anya moved to her hands and knees, crawling herself up to standing position, delighting in the erotic play that was unfolding. Steffan kneeled on the ground and sat back on his heels. Anya walked right up to Steffan and sat on the floor directly in front of him. She spread her legs around him and lay back on the floor. She raised her hips and tilted from side to side. “Pelvic tilt, that’s what you like.”

214

Maya DeLeina

Steffan watched as Anya’s rocking movements put him in a trance. “Well, you’ve clearly demonstrated you can reduce me to a quivering shell of man in no time flat. But, love, this is still not the one I was thinking of.” Anya lowered on her back to imagine what he was thinking when the pose popped into her head. This will send him over the edge for sure. “I got it!” she exclaimed as she firmly pushed her feet into the floor and gently raised her buttocks, hips, and spine in the air and clasped her hands under her back. “Oh, yes…that is the one.” Steffan moaned. His lips puckered and his face strained at the sight. In an instant, he stood up between her legs and lifted her from the ground by her waist. Anya clung to Steffan, wrapping her legs around him. A series of hot flashes trickled down her spine to her pelvis as he fervently kissed her. She could feel raging need reverberate through his body. “Let’s make love in the shower,” he whispered as he whisked her through the tunnels and up to their master bath. **** Steffan sat on the barstool as he watched Anya prepare dinner. She retrieved a brown-colored bottle from the fridge, popped off the top, and sat it in the microwave for a minute then returned to fixing the antipasto platter. The pasta noodles continued to boil and the sauce simmered. When the microwave rang, she retrieved the bottle and handed it to Steffan. “Warm enough?” “Perfect,” said Steffan testing the bottle’s temperature. Anya dropped a Consumption pill into his palm. Steffan popped the pill in his mouth and swallowed it down with the entire contents of the bottle. “And this doesn’t gross you out?” Steffan asked as he discarded the bottle in the recycling bin. “You take unnecessary measures just to share meals with me. My body needs the food for sustenance. I can’t share in blood intake with you, but the least I can do is not think twice about what your body needs,” Anya said.

Veil of Seduction

215

“You look like you’re enjoying yourself in the kitchen,” Steffan said as he situated himself behind Anya, wrapping his hands around her waist. “I enjoy cooking, especially Italiano. And this is an amazing gourmet kitchen to work in,” she said as she lifted the pot cover and began to stir the sauce. The aromas of herbs and spices filled the air. “Oh, that smells terrific.” “Now do you see why I started the sauce earlier today? The flavor needed time to develop. And you wanted to use sauce from a jar!” “Can I help you with anything?” “Actually, we’re just about ready,” Anya said as she removed warm pieces of bread from the oven. “I’ll plate the pasta. Can you get our wine and put the antipasto and bread on the table?” Anya walked into the dining room. Steffan had lit the entire length of the table with candlelight. “Steffan, this table can seat ten. Is there an expectation for company?” Anya said as Steffan took the pasta from her and placed it on the table. “So I went a little overboard,” Steffan admitted as he held the chair out for Anya. They sat at the corner of the table, close to one another. The amber glow of the candles was like earthshine, highlighting Steffan’s magnificence that lay hidden in the darkness. The flame flickered in his silver eyes as he held his gaze, spellbound and steady on Anya. Steffan’s aristocratic features and the sepia tone that drenched his skin took center stage. He reminded Anya of an old-fashioned portrait, the kind that she would get lost in, full of reverie and wonder what that person had witnessed in their lifetime, what a life meant in that time. “Anya. The second phase can begin this evening. Will you accept me once again and allow me to drink?” “Each time we’ve been together, I’ve been waiting for it. Of course I accept.” “To us,” Steffan smiled as he raised his glass of wine. “To us,” Anya said meeting his glass with her own. Steffan looked at his watch. Nodding, he indulged in a long sip of the wine and immediately moved to the bread and antipasto platter. “Tell me, what type of wine are we to drink once I’m turned?” Anya asked.

216

Maya DeLeina

“Our special blend, of course. We’ll pack the cellar full of our blood wine,” Steffan said as he savored a taste from the antipasto platter. “My god, Eilian and I have got to really work on extending Consumption past six hours. I don’t remember food tasting this good when I was human.” “Steffan?” Anya spoke quietly. “Yes?” responded Steffan as he remained focused, deciding upon a pairing of smoked mozzarella and prosciutto from the platter. “What did you remember when you turned?” **** Steffan stopped midbite. He paused for a second and then swallowed the half-bitten piece of food down hard. He balanced his elbows on the table, rubbing his hands together in deep thought. “I remembered everything except my name. My wife, my child I had yet to meet, the war…that all consumed me.” “Where were you when you lost your human life?” “Passchendaele, Belgium, in 1917,” Steffan whispered with no emotion. His hands moved nonchalantly to his plate, twirling the pasta fork against spoon. “I was a colonel with the Royal Welch regiment of the British army.” “What happened? Can you talk about it?” Anya asked softly. Steffan nodded and he gulped down his pasta. “I need to talk about it. I’ve never told anyone the story before.” He placed his fork on the plate as he reached for his wine. The images he had fought to bury came rolling in like a storm. As if playing out on the silver screen, it started hazy, a mist that blurred the chaotic opening scene. He saw himself, walking tall, full of life, penetrating through the thickness of the smoke and debris. He was dirty, his face smeared with soot and blood. His eyes were wild and frantic in the pandemonium. “Most of the fighting occurred in the marshlands. The thick mud…it was everywhere. Blood and ash mixed in with it, turning it to the deepest black I had ever seen. And it smelled. God did it smell. It had staleness to it at first, but the rotten stench would overpower you, engulf you. It smelled

Veil of Seduction

217

like death.” Steffan broke his recollection as he tried to regain his composure. “The weather was always gray, cold, and wet. Food was an issue. It was always scarce. It was miserable. No sleep, no food, no warmth…no sun. We used duckboards to maneuver troops around the swamp land. But the Germans used explosive shells in their attacks. If you weren’t killed by a direct hit by a shell, it would’ve probably knocked you from the duckboard into the liquid mud, engulfing you. I saw many men die from drowning in the thickness. The Germans also used mustard gas for the first time.” Steffan paused. His memory was filled with the images of darkness, death, and destruction. His eyes welled at the recollection of the pain and suffering. He took a deep, long sip of the wine. Anya reached for his arm to console him. “Steffan, it’s okay, you don’t have to go on.” Steffan sniffled and wiped away his tears. “No, I want you to know what happened to me.” He put his wine down, reached for Anya’s hand, and held it tightly. “Our entire area was hit with the gas. There was nothing I could do. My skin was on fire. It blistered and started falling off of my body where it was concentrated. I was coughing. I couldn’t get air. My lungs felt constricted. My eyelids swelled. I couldn’t see. I tried to blink through the burning, but the pain was excruciating. Suddenly, there was a sharp blow against my body and my ears were ringing. I was completely numb. I didn’t even know I was hit by an explosive shell and was sinking rapidly into the mud until two large hands grabbed a hold of my uniform and dragged me onto scattered pieces of the duckboard. I couldn’t see anything. My ears stopped ringing, but the sounds around me were indiscernible, as if I was still underwater, except for the voice that spoke to me.” “Who, Eilian?” “No, it was our maker, Idris. He said, Wait right here and try not to die while I am gone.” Steffan shook his head. “Really, where was I going to go? The numbness started to wear off as I lay there waiting as he instructed. I felt an indescribable pain in my stomach, and I moved my hands to assess the damage only to find that I had a gaping hole in my body. I panicked when I felt soft tissue protruding from my body and tried feverishly to tuck it back into place.”

218

Maya DeLeina

Anya gulped and pushed her plate of pasta noodles in marinara sauce away. “Right at that moment, I could make out a dark shadow coming toward me, and I felt a wet body slump next to me. The voice spoke again. Men, I will give you a choice. You will die in a matter of minutes with the extent of your injuries. You both have been severely injured by an explosive shell. I can leave you as nature intended…” Steffan shook his head. “After he said those three words, you will die, Arianell was the only thing I could think about. I would never get to say good-bye to her. I would never get to meet my child. Idris continued talking while my mind wandered. Then, I caught the last part of what he said …or I can rid you of your pain and restore you to walk on this earth again, but not as nature intended. I had no idea what he was offering, all I blurted out was Arianell’s name and how I longed to see her, hold her, and be a father to a child I had yet to meet. Another man lying near me spoke, but I couldn’t understand what he was saying. Idris silenced us both. I remember him saying, Gentlemen, I believe you made your choice. Then he did it. He leaned over the man lying next to me and I heard him scream out in agony. His body flopped around like a fish. Then it was my turn.” “What happened next?” Anya asked. “I don’t remember much of the turning itself. All I remember is waking up in darkness, in an abandoned stone structure that had been devastated by heavy artillery fighting. Rain was pouring down on me. I looked around with my new vampiric eyes and that’s when I saw Eilian next to me. He hadn’t woken yet. I spent the time observing everything my eyes could take in. Everything around me was more defined. I could see for miles. I could make out the most minuscule details in something. I could see things before it was humanly possible.” Steffan picked up his fork and twirled the pasta. “After the internet came about, I did research on the war and soldiers that I remembered. I don’t even know if Eilian and I were listed among the perished in the records. We couldn’t recall our names. But I did happen across an article on a lieutenant who fought in the war. I didn’t know him, but I came to know his writings he published after the war. He wrote about Passchendaele, how the light faded in the bottomless mud, being a man’s death in hell. For me, I was born in hell, in Passchendaele. And up until the day I found our connection, I, too, had lost the light.”

Veil of Seduction

219

**** Steffan helped collect the dishes and gather them in the sink as Anya worked on filling the dishwasher. “I’ll clean up in the dining room and blow out the candles. Shall we meet upstairs for dessert?” Steffan whispered in Anya’s ear as he stood behind her at the sink, wrapping his hands around her waist. “I’ll be waiting,” Anya said in response. “By the way, you may want to check the top drawer of your vanity. You’ll have to thank Brynne for picking it out once you meet the family,” Steffan hinted as he slipped into the dining room. Steffan watched as Anya hurried through her chores to get ready upstairs. In the dining room, Steffan leaned over to blow out the candles on the table just as the China cabinet wall transformed and receded. Startled at the uninvited entry, Steffan turned around in alarm. His fangs descended. His eyes burned. He could feel the crimson-red fire in his eyes. Steffan was ready to attack. **** “Steffan, I…I didn’t know you would be up!” Ryan gasped. Shit. He imagined they would be in bed already so he could watch Anya on display and imagine himself in Steffan’s place. “Ryan, what the hell are you doing here? Don’t you know it’s not safe to be here right now? I’m in my mate claim. You could’ve gotten yourself killed!” “Sorry, Steffan. I didn’t mean to upset you.” Ryan watched as Steffan peeked into the kitchen, breathing a sigh of relief. He took a look in the kitchen for himself but couldn’t tell what Steffan was looking at. “Is anything wrong? Are you hurt? Is someone else hurt in the family?” Steffan asked suddenly, turning his attention back to Ryan.

220

Maya DeLeina

“No. I’m fine. Everyone is fine. I just wanted to get a bottle.” Ryan swiftly came up with a basis for his visit. “Why? You know how to feed from humans now. The bottles are emergency reserves only.” “I fed earlier, but I’m still hungry. I think it was all the excitement of going back to work today. Besides, I don’t want to harm her with another feeding,” Ryan said with a wink. Steffan chuckled as he moved to the kitchen. Ryan followed close behind. “You brought another woman home? You have a new woman every night it seems.” Steffan reached into the fridge and handed a bottle to Ryan. He leaned against the kitchen island and crossed his arms in front of his chest. “I was like you once. Sometimes, I didn’t even bother with getting their names. But I can tell you, it’ll get old after awhile.” Ryan shook his head in disagreement. “Not for me. Not by a long shot.” “Well, when you get this out of your system—” “Ahh!” Ryan interrupted Steffan. “All right, if you get this out of your system, try to focus your energy and concentration in finding your mate. Compatibility in every aspect— friendship, intellect, talent, conversation and yes…fucking, can sustain you through your existence more than any of the barrage of women that traipses through your bedroom.” Steffan put his arm around Ryan as they made their way back to the dining room. “How did everything go today? Did you like what I had designed for your office?” “Yes, thank you. Everything went smoothly.” Ryan’s stomach twitched. Steffan’s care and generosity made him uncomfortable. “And no one emerged that we didn’t know about?” “No, looks like you had everyone accounted for. Thank you,” Ryan said as he made his way to the entrance of the tunnel. “Ryan, you’re family now and are like a brother to me. Soon, you may come and go as you please and as I always allowed. But I would ask that you respect my time with my mate and for your safety, not enter my home without my prior consent until after the claim is completed.” “Understood,” Ryan said coldly. “And Ryan?” “Yes?” “I believe you’ll have a nice surprise when you return to your office.”

Veil of Seduction

221

“Huh?” Ryan was taken aback. “Just make sure to open the top drawer of your desk. And thank Rita for helping us get you approved.” Steffan smiled. “I’m hoping this will somehow make up for my absence while you were going through your transformation. I’m your maker. I am responsible for you. But I have also found my mate, and she has taken precedence over everything for the moment.” What in the hell did the man get me? The last thing he wanted was any distractions in his plan to claim Anya for himself. Anya would someday be his.

222

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Seventeen Anya hurried up the stairs to the bedroom. Her feet could barely keep up with her excitement. She waltzed into the room, closing the double doors and securing them in the locked position. “As if that would stop a vampire.” She laughed out loud to herself. She sat at the vanity and opened the top drawer. She immediately recognized the name on the box. It was a shop that specialized in stripper attire and erotic club wear. Is that his fantasy, for me to perform a private strip show for him? Her heart sank. She couldn’t dance. She was graceful with the cello. She could feel music and let it flow through her, but when it came to a dance, it was something of an enigma for her body. Even Michelle confirmed her awkwardness, once branding her movements as dry heaves to music. She tore open the box and lifted the garment from the delicately folded tissue. There was definitely no way out of this piece of lingerie with any sort of ease, so stripping was not his plan. Attached with a piece of string hooked through the lace was a note from Steffan. Please open the middle left drawer of your bureau, followed by the 3rd pullout drawer of your shoe rack in the closet to complete your outfit. I will be with you shortly my love. ~S Anya ran to the bureau and the closet to find black crotchless panties and black stilettos. Anya lathered her body with lotion in a gentle white tea and jasmine scent. She slipped the lingerie on as if putting on pantyhose. She pulled the stocking all the way up and let the thin ruffled-lace trim sit off her shoulders

Veil of Seduction

223

as it was designed. She looked at herself in the mirror and delighted in the sensuality her body reflected back at her. “Hair up,” she said out loud. She reached for the chopstick-like hair accessory and wrapped her hair up in a loose bun, allowing the piece to pierce through her hair close to her scalp, securing it in place. Her curling iron took less than a minute to heat up, and she curled the few strands of hair that she allowed to dangle around her face for a more romantic updo. She sprayed a hint of perfume on her wrist as she did one last check in the mirror. She walked across the room, dimmed the lights, and turned on the wall and ceiling speakers. The satellite station was already set to their favorite Zen spa channel. Steffan still hadn’t made it up to the bedroom. What’s taking him so long? The anticipation made her fidgety and anxious. She took a seat on the bed and rolled her head from side to side, stretching her neck. She opened her eyes as she leaned back in a deep stretch and caught her reflection staring back at her. “When did he do this?” She laughed out loud. A large mirror suspended from the ceiling. Long strands of the white material cascaded around the mirror to the floor. Anya grabbed the fabric and collected it in her hand. It was a thick and smooth. It resembled the silk fabric an aerial trapeze performer would use. She moved back a little further on the bed to examine more when the bed moved slightly from her movement. Puzzled, Anya got off the bed and bent down to examine the frame. Wheels were secured to each of the bed’s feet. What is going on? Determined to find out where Steffan was, she got up off the floor and headed for the door. She swung open the double doors and gasped. There, in the entrance, stood Steffan. He was bare chested. His rock-hard abs and well-defined chest and arms were on full display for Anya’s eyes to soak in. He stood barefoot, hands in pocket. His black, silk lounging pants sat low on his waist. His muscles dipped in, creating a deep V pattern, signaling a defined path that disappeared below the elastic band of his pants. The pronounced treasure

224

Maya DeLeina

trail that started at his navel called out to her follow it to the fullness that pressed against the material of his pants. Anya trembled and quaked at the sight of Steffan. “I wanted to be mad at you for making me wait so long, but Steffan, you are so damn sexy. My heart hurts just looking at you.” “I was just outside this door all the time. I could hear your thoughts. I could feel your anticipation rising. I wanted you to be completely ready for me.” Steffan examined her from head to toe. “Anya, you are absolutely stunning!” The black, full-body stocking left nothing to the imagination. She was on full display. Yet at the same time, the stocking hindered his ability to touch her flesh. It was the most erotic piece of lingerie that she’d ever worn for a man or herself. She relished the power she had to make him shudder where he stood. Anya looked him over in curiosity. “Where did you change? This isn’t what you were wearing during dinner.” Steffan slipped his hands from his pockets and walked toward Anya, slowly and methodically. “Does it really matter? Anya, I have to warn you. I will not be gentle tonight. The second phase is meant to bring out our animalistic lust for one another. I will not drink delicately from you tonight, my love. In fact, it won’t even be from your neck.” A scorching shiver raced up and down her body. Unexpectedly, a sexual confidence washed over her. Anya met Steffan’s gait and pressed her breast against his bare chest. She stood solid, unwavering in her stance. She was full of self-assurance and poise as she spoke, “Steffan Matthews, drink from me wherever you please as I will drain you of your hot liquid, taking what I want.” Anya bent down to the floor, pulling Steffan’s pants with her and unleashing his shaft. She took him fully into her mouth, letting his tip tickle the back of her throat, gagging on his fullness. Her assault on his hardness was sloppy and relentless. She looked up at Steffan as thin lines of saliva connected her mouth to his shaft. She slurped up the trails, hungrily feasting on him. Steffan shook. “You are naughty. You’ll have to stop before I come in that sweet mouth of yours.”

Veil of Seduction

225

Anya stood up and walked backward away from Steffan, wiping her mouth and gasping for breath. Steffan kicked off his pants and walked over to her. “Come here, Anya,” he commanded as he stroked himself. Anya continued to back away. “No.” “Come here now!” Steffan demanded. It made her hair stand on end. “No!” Anya screamed back as she continued to back away from him faster. Her heart was pounding with excitement. She unleashed her hair, letting the long, black strands spill all around her. “I said no.” Steffan stood stroking himself as he laughed. “Very well, I warned you.” Steffan took to the air. He flew in an instant to Anya, sweeping her off of her feet and pinning her high against the wall. An erotic intensity sparked inside her, spreading like wildfire all through her body. She wanted to be dominated. She wanted it rough. She wanted it primal. She wanted him to drink from her. Steffan shot his knee up the wall to hold her in place as he wrapped his hand around her neck. “Do not tell your master no again, you hear me?” Anya nodded with fear as she played out her role like a Hollywood starlet. “I can’t hear you.” “Yes.” “Yes, what?” “Yes, master.” Steffan released his hold on her neck and dug his fingers into her breast. Anya moaned in delight with the sensation his rough handling was creating. He huffed like a wild animal in heat as his hand tore a hole in her body stocking to release her breast. He bit down on the nipple and sucked on her breast hard. “Tell me this is only mine.” “This is only yours, my master.” He tore the body suit on the other side, releasing her other breast. “Tell me this is only mine.” “This is only yours, my master.” He reached between her legs and ripped a hole under her heat. “And this?”

226

Maya DeLeina

“This is only yours, my master.” He reached behind her and tore a hole at her ass. “And this?” “This is only yours, my master.” “Taste me,” Steffan said as he released her from the wall and pushed her down on her knees. He held out his shaft for her as she took him in. He ground, fierce and machinelike, into her mouth. She gagged at his forcible entry. He searched her eyes for reassurance that she liked the roughness. This time, she remembered he could read her thoughts. I’m all right. Keep going. I love this! **** Steffan smiled as he realized the extent of their compatibility. Anya was wild as he was. He didn’t have to hold back. They could satisfy each other’s need without compromise, worry, disapproval, or judgment. This changed everything. He bent down, lifted her off of her knees, and pinned her back to the wall. Anya’s legs wrapped around him tight and secure. In one hand, he held her arms high above her head. The other held her up at her waist. He bent his knees to position his cock at her opening and surged his way into her. Steffan and Anya moaned in unison with his taking. Wet and hot, Anya coated him in rapture. He plunged deep, claiming her, breeding an insatiable appetite in Anya to crave more. Harder and faster he took her. “Steffan, fuck me!” Steffan groaned. He took her from the wall and threw her on the bed. He lifted one leg over his shoulder as he stretched out the other. “I want to see me fucking you, Anya!” Steffan slammed the length of his shaft all the way into her. She screamed below him, and he continued to devour her body, hard and nasty. He pinned her beneath him as he knew she liked. He dominated and ravished her, the way he knew she utterly craved.

Veil of Seduction

227

Steffan looked up and caught Anya’s gaze in the mirror’s reflection. He flashed a lustful glare. “You wanted this, didn’t you?” “Yes!” “You like it when I take you hard.” “Ah-ha.” “My nasty slave. You want more?” “Yes, master!” Steffan pulled himself from Anya’s warmth and whisked her off the bed. “Step aside.” Steffan moved the entire bed straight across the room in one single motion. He scooped Anya up at the waist, lifting her up to the white material that streamed down from the ceiling. “Wrap your wrists around the material and grasp it tight,” Steffan instructed. Anya responded eagerly. Steffan wrapped the ends of the material that pooled on the floor around Anya’s thighs and feet. “Anya, are you going to spread wide for your master?” “Yes!” Steffan released the hold on the material, and Anya’s legs were sent into a perfect split. Anya squealed. Steffan pulled Anya’s body to him. In one lustful move, he thrust himself deep inside her as she suspended in the air by the aerial fabric. The sensation was mind-numbing. Steffan leaned his head back to see her fully splayed in the mirror. Anya looked up and caught his gaze in the reflection. He was enraptured, driving himself deep inside his mate, seizing every part of her heated depth. “Anya, I love fucking you.” Steffan lunged for Anya, catching a good portion of her bouncing breast in his teeth. He clamped down but did not break skin. “Fuck yeah!” Anya screamed. Steffan continued to ravish her body like a nasty toy. He grunted and moaned. He squeezed and bit her flesh. His breath was ragged and sharp. He strained for control as he spoke. “Grab a hold of the material and hold on tight,” he instructed.

228

Maya DeLeina

He pulled his cock from her dripping-wet pussy and moved behind her. “Now release your grip. Allow your arms to stretch out behind you as I move you into to position. Allow the material to slide through your hands until I got you where I want.” He grabbed her by the waist, pulling her to his body. He pushed down on her back, angling her head down. Anya’s arms stretched behind her as her hands slid down the material. Her body contorted sensually like an aerial trapeze artist. In this position, Anya’s crotch leveled with his. “Now, hold on tight. I’m coming in,” Steffan said sinisterly. Steffan grabbed his cock and pierced his way into Anya. She moaned as he entered her from behind. She clung to the material as he pounded into her, digging his fingers into her hips and thighs. Steffan looked up in the mirror. Their union was the most erotic sight he had ever seen. “Oh god! Steffan, drink from me. I’m close. I’m ready,” Anya wailed. Steffan once again slipped himself out from her hot pussy and walked to the corner of the room as Anya remained suspended. Steffan returned with a stool. “Ease up on your grip,” Steffan instructed. He moved Anya. Her head rose slowly. He wrapped more of the material around her inner thighs to stabilize her in an upright position. With Anya now parallel with the fabric, Steffan moved the stool into position and took a seat between her legs. He sat at perfect eye level. “Hmm. These crotchless panties were a good idea.” Steffan slipped his fingers into Anya as his thumb explored her hard mound. Anya screamed in pleasure. Steffan flicked his tongue around her opening and at her hardened and aching mound. She quaked, suspended in his hands. “Come Anya, come in front of me and then I’ll drink from you.” Steffan drove his fingers into her at top speed as she cried out in pleasure. His eyes burned and his elongated teeth broke through their protective membrane. “Steffan, I’m coming,” she gasped and shuddered all around him. Steffan threw his head back and sunk his teeth high up in her inner thigh. Anya screamed. Steffan could feel the waves of pleasure coil through her body. Steffan drank relentlessly from her inner thigh. Traces of her blood that escaped Steffan’s consumption soaked the white material that held her

Veil of Seduction

229

thighs open. The bright-red blood slowly saturated, spreading through the fabric. Steffan glided his tongue over the entry points, sealing the wounds, immediately stopping the flow of blood. He stood back up. Anya tensed. “Steffan?” Her voice shook. Steffan reached for her and held her close to him, cradling her head. He realized what he probably looked like to Anya. He could see the fear in her eyes. Her blood was still smeared across his chin and jaw. His eyes burned, knowingly still in red. His heart sank. He must’ve looked like a monster. “I know, love, it’s still me.” Steffan quickly wiped down his face and willed himself to calm his burning need for more blood. “Don’t be frightened. It’s because I just drank from your femoral artery. It’s setting off all of these primal triggers in me to drink you completely dry. But I’m in control, Anya. I love you. I would never hurt you. It will subside.” After a moment of stillness, Steffan released Anya and pushed back to look at her. “It’s you!” Anya smiled and sighed in relief. Her speech was slurred. “It’s me. It’s always been me,” Steffan said as he stroked himself. “You are never in danger with me. But, Anya…” “Yes, Steffan.” “I need you to know. I need it dirty. Do as I say.” Steffan undid the material wrapped around Anya’s thighs. He grabbed her waist and lifted her so her crotch would be aligned with his in the standing position. “Grab the silk, baby,” Steffan instructed as he wrapped the silk around her waist and thighs to hold her in place. Then, he thrust the length of his hardness into Anya. A droplet of blood fell from his mouth as he parted his lips and moaned. He tore at the body stocking wildly to fully release her breasts. He pounded into her hard, delighting in the way her breasts responded in their vicious waves with his thrusts. Anya leaned her head all the way back, arching her back below her, and whimpered in pleasure. Steffan released one of her hands from the material and laced his fingers through hers. He steadied

230

Maya DeLeina

himself as he ground into her, his pace faster, his rhythm deeper. His moans were short and grew more intense and louder with every movement. “What do you want, Anya?” “I want you to come. I want to see you. I want to hear what I am doing to you.” Anya’s eyes were heavy lidded. Her lips were pouty and raw. “Baby. Do you want to taste me, drink me?” Steffan whimpered. “Oh yes! Come in my mouth!” Anya exclaimed. “Oh, Anya, baby! You are so beautiful. You’re so damn good.” Steffan pulled out of Anya and moved behind her. Anya arched her back, her hands gliding effortlessly down the silk as she angled her head back. “Jesus, you’re flexible,” Steffan said with a ragged breath as he stroked his cock above her Anya opened her mouth wide. “Anya, I’m coming! Drink me!” He moaned in pure ecstasy as he pumped his hot release into her mouth over and over again until she was filled. Anya looked up at Steffan with her exotic, almond-shaped eyes. Sweat glistened off of her forehead. Her long, black hair was wild and wet. She closed her mouth and swallowed all of Steffan, ending with a swirl of her tongue on her lips. Steffan closed his eyes and began to tear. This phase of the ritual was complete and Anya was still alive. His love for his mate triumphed over innate instincts to drink her dry. Only one phase remained. Anya would soon become a vampire. **** The doorbell rang. “Michelle!” Steffan said joyfully as he reached down to hug her. “Thank you for coming over, especially in this weather. Anya will be so happy to see you!” Steffan kissed her cheek, and Michelle blushed at the momentary thrill she got from his embrace.

Veil of Seduction

231

“Sorry, I would’ve been over sooner, but it has been crazy. I finally found a reliable replacement for Anya at the shop and my ex has Chloe for the weekend,” Michelle said as she placed her purse and raincoat in the coat closet near the entry. “How’s my girl doing?” Steffan closed the door. “I completed the second phase with her two weeks ago. I fear I may have taken too much from her. Her recovery took longer because of this, but she’s doing well now.” Steffan shook his head and slipped his hands into the pockets of his jeans. “I’ve been sick to my stomach about what I’ve done. She keeps telling me not to feel guilty, but how could I not?” “From what I remember Dominic telling me, wasn’t this the ultimate test before completing the claim?” Steffan nodded. “Yes. A femoral drink is the most intimate of exchanges between a human and vampire. And the most dangerous as the vampire’s willpower is tested against their most innate and primal instincts to kill.” “Steffan, she’s alive. You passed. You’ve shown that the strength of your love for her could overcome all other powerful forces. Don’t do this to yourself.” Michelle looked down and said softly, “I wonder if I’d said yes, would I have lived past the second phase with Dominic?” Steffan hugged Michelle closely. “Take your own advice and don’t continue to beat yourself up about Dominic. It’s been over a year. Release yourself. You’re not to blame for his reaction. You don’t have to feel guilty about saying no. The connection between fated mates is just the first step of the claim. Acceptance of this life is what secures the connection. They have to go hand in hand. This existence is not for everyone. You had to do what was right for you. Let it go, Michelle. Live your life.” Michelle wiped back tears as Steffan released her. “You’re right, it’s not like I have an eternity to do things like you and Anya!” she joked to lighten the mood. “Let Anya know, Michelle. She’ll understand and talking about it will be your first step in releasing what you’ve harbored in you all this time. It would also help alleviate some worries in Anya. She’s been rehearsing how she was going to break the news to you today that I am a vampire and that she agreed to become one, too. In fact, I think this is why she was so eager to have you have over these past few days.”

232

Maya DeLeina

“Okay. I will.” “Come inside.” Steffan put his arm around Michelle as they walked to the great room. “Anya should be down from her shower any minute.” The floor-to-ceiling windows put the rugged mountain terrain in perfect view. “Wow! This looks eerie!” Michelle said as she stepped to the windows. Fog blanketed the mountain vista and the valley below, obstructing the views of the city. A light rain fell. The wind was strong, howling through the valley, making the canopy of trees that pierced through the thick fog to sway with intensity. Michelle sat down on the daybed. “Michelle!” Anya smiled as she entered the room and ran over to hug her friend. Anya had a glow about her. All of Steffan’s talk about Anya’s recovery and health issues held no merit. She looked radiant and beautiful as ever. Anya traced over the wooden floors, barefoot. She dressed all in white, a delicate shimmering noise suspending around her as she moved. She wore her signature attire, a long flowing skirt, and an embellished tank top. This time, she’d added a long-sleeved shrug to the ensemble, the sleeves, a fine netting material, allowing her brown flesh to peek through suggestively in the design. Each sleeve ended in a triangular shape, a little loop hooking around her middle finger, securing it in place. A belly dance belt laced with golden coins sat around her waist. She looked enchanting and magical, like a beautiful gypsy queen. “My love! You look absolutely stunning!” Steffan exclaimed. He grabbed Anya by the waist and leaned in to a deep kiss. Anya moaned responsively into his mouth. Michelle looked away, trying to give them a little piece of privacy. “Sorry, Michelle. You’ll have to excuse us. We’re still learning how to control ourselves,” Anya said as she patted Steffan’s behind. “Yup. I can see how that can be a problem,” Michelle responded. Steffan smirked as he began to walk across the room. The women watched him intently. Steffan disappeared through the doorway that led to the kitchen.

Veil of Seduction

233

“He’s right. You look wonderful. You have a glow about you. And damn girl…” Michelle paused and lifted Anya’s arms, scanning her outfit up and down. “You make weird look sexy!” Anya chuckled. “I have a glow? You know what, I think it’s him. He makes me feel sexy, no matter what I look like on the outside. Like, I was sick last week. I didn’t put a stitch of makeup on. I didn’t do my hair. Hell, there is one day I didn’t even take a bath. But he looked at me with the same eyes, showing me the same amount of affection.” Steffan returned in the room with a tray of freshly baked brownies and cups of hot cocoa. “What is all this?” Anya asked. “Watching you cook inspired me to try out the kitchen as well. I baked something for the two of you. Well, it was from a box, but it was something of a triumph for me.” Steffan placed the tray on the daybed in between Michelle and Anya. “Oh my god. Dark chocolate brownies, Anya! This man’s a keeper for sure!” Michelle laughed, knowing Anya’s weakness for dark chocolate. “Ladies, I’ll be with Eilian if you need me,” Steffan said as he excused himself to allow the friends to spend time alone. As they did before, they silently watched Steffan walk across the room. Anya sighed. “I hate to see him go, but it is so delicious to watch him leave.” The two women looked at each other and then burst out in laughter like school girls. “A man whose stunningly gorgeous, rich, has an obvious insatiable appetite for sex, worships the very ground you walk on and bakes? I’ll take one for myself, please,” Michelle said as Anya laughed. “He is something. When I was young, I would dream of the type of man I would want to marry. You know, make a mental list of all of the physical attributes and personality qualities I wanted. I knew he would never exist. There is no perfect man out there. There are always flaws or things you settle for because the good outweighs the not so good.” Honey, I know exactly where you’re leading to. She let Anya finish saying what she needed to say. “It’s like someone found that list of mine, floating out there, and said, Here he is, everything you asked for and a little something you didn’t.”

234

Maya DeLeina

Michelle took a bite of her brownie and casually blurted, “So being a vampire didn’t make the list, obviously.” “What!” screamed Anya. “What did you say?” “I said, being a vamp—” Anya interrupted. “I heard you fine the first time. I don’t get it. H–how did you know? How long have you known? You don’t see a problem with this? Put down the brownie, Michelle, and talk to me!” “Patience. Let me enjoy this brownie.” Michelle wanted to burst into laughter. She was purposely dragging this out on Anya. “We will get to your first two questions. But first, do I see a problem with this? No, Anya. I want whatever makes you happy. I know what will happen to you and all I ask is that you make sure you remember that I was your best friend after your turning. Promise you won’t forget who I am.” “Michelle? Are you a vampire?” “Anya. I have laugh lines and crow’s-feet that can give the Grand Canyon a run for its money. And my boobs are hitting the ground. Tell me, have you ever seen a vampire woman in that bad of a body shape before?” Anya just smiled and shook her head. “Of course not! I’m falling apart, breaking down. My extended warranty expired long ago on this body. I am human, honey. Weird…yes, but human, nonetheless.” “Then how do you know all of this stuff with remembering, recalling your human past?” “I live in Manitou Springs, I hear things.” Michelle dusted the remnants of the brownie crumbs off of her hands and then reached for the cup of cocoa. “So, can you do everything possible to assure you remember me? Keep our pictures around as a reminder of our friendship?” “I could never forget you, Michelle. I promise. I won’t forget you. Steffan said we’re supposed to retain things that were close to our heart. I love you. So I don’t think there is even a chance that I would not recall you.” “And have you mentioned anything about Ryan to Steffan?” “Michelle, shh!” “What?” Anya ran to the entry of the great room. The delicate coins on her belt made it sound like a horse-drawn sleigh was in the room. She stopped

Veil of Seduction

235

abruptly at the doorway, rested her hand against the wall and leaned forward, to peer around the corner. After a brief second, Anya turned around and ran back to Michelle. “No, why should I?” Anya whispered. “Nice way to start off your relationship. You’ve got a big lie hanging between the two of you.” “Look, I just don’t want to open that whole can of worms. Besides, I won’t remember him after I turn.” “Well, that is a good point.” “But why are you so accepting? You don’t believe in mortality. You believe we embody new forms and our spirit never dies. It will go against everything you believe in.” “And you believe in mortality. You’ve been surrounded by death your entire life. Belief is personal and individualistic, Anya. I understand your need for this and I think it’s a right choice for you. For me, I have my beliefs, and I have Chloe. I couldn’t make the same choice as you. This is why I never spoke of Dominic to you.” “What! Dominic was a vampire?” Michelle nodded. “Yes. In fact, he was once a part of Steffan’s family. This is how I first met Steffan. He saved my life, Anya.” “Hold on! Start at the beginning, Michelle! And don’t leave anything out!”

236

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Eighteen Ryan lay on his back, eyes shut and arms folded behind his head. It had been almost a month since he had last seen Anya in the flesh. After the unexpected exchange with Steffan in the dining room that evening, he’d never attempted another visit. Any thoughts on a strategy to steal Anya away had fallen to the wayside. He was left with no feasible options. Steffan’s hold on her was too strong, and he was too powerful a force to face on his own. Anya would remain his torment and obsession. She consumed him, and the only connection he had with her was his imagination and this place. The air turned heavy as the smell of chalky earth alerted his senses. He opened his eyes. The sky was alive in frenzy. A mass of ominous clouds swirled in shades of gunmetal and black. They plagued the blue sky, overpowering its tranquility and suffocating the light. Ryan got up and kneeled at the headstone as he made a final adjustment to the flowers he’d placed at the grave. He stood over the grave to say his good-byes before the thunderstorm hit. He shook his head. “Anise, I will never understand why I cannot remember a beautiful woman like you.” “Maybe it’s because she didn’t belong to you,” a voice rang out behind Ryan. Ryan turned around to find a woman standing behind him. She wore sunglasses even though the sun’s light had been fully extinguished by the thunderclouds rolling in. “Excuse me?” “It’s Ryan, Ryan Evans, correct?” the woman responded as she took off her glasses. Her round face was framed by wavy, shoulder-length hair in a reddish-brown tone. She was a bit unflattering for Ryan’s taste. Her hair lacked any natural color qualities, too obvious of a straight-from-the-bottle dye job. Everything about her seemed overdone, makeup, clothes, perfume,

Veil of Seduction

237

and nail polish. She lacked the sophistication that he demanded of his women. “Yes. I’m Ryan. Do I know you?” “I’m Madeline Doyle. I’m sure you would’ve known who I was if Steffan bothered to introduce you to the rest of the family here in town.” “You’re one of us?” Madeline nodded. “Yes. I’m the one who works in the police department as a detective. I am the one who reports to Steffan on rogue vampire activity near our town. I am also the one who supplied him with background information on a human he recently turned.” “Are you talking about me?” “Yes, Ryan.” “So what do you mean, Anise didn’t belong to me? Was she married and I didn’t know it? Or did I know it? What do you know?” Madeleine sidestepped Ryan’s question. “Tell me, how is Steffan these days? The rest of the family hasn’t seen or heard from him in quite some time. I hear he took a mate recently.” The thunder cracked through the sky and jolted Ryan and Madeleine. Heavy rain drops began to fall. “Ryan, we need to get out of this weather! We can have lightning at any moment now! Come to my car, we need to talk.” Madeleine turned to make her way down the hill. “No!” Ryan grabbed Madeleine’s arm. “You didn’t answer me. What do you mean she didn’t belong to me? Tell me!” Ryan demanded. The wind gained strength and tossed his long bangs across his angry face. Rain cascaded along his jawline. “Anise never belonged to you. Steffan lied! He lied to everyone.” “What? Steffan lied to me? I never had a relationship with Anise? This doesn’t make sense. Why would he make up something like that?” “Think!” Madeline screamed. Ryan searched Madeline’s eyes. Full of frustration, her eyes pleaded for understanding. “Ryan, once I told him all about your past and he saw her, he wanted her for himself. He has special powers to enthrall our kind. He erased your memory of her. He erased her memory of you.”

238

Maya DeLeina

Ryan grabbed Madeline at the shoulders and shook her violently. “What are you saying? Say it, damnit!” “Anya. She was your wife! Anya is yours! Steffan took her from you. This is why you have no recollection of Anise. You never had a relationship with Anise.” The wind and rain pelted Madeline’s face, sending her heavy mascara to carve deep-black rivers in her face. Ryan released Madeline’s shoulders and stood still. Horror gripped him as he processed all that Madeline had just revealed to him. He felt his eyes burn with fury. “No!” Ryan wailed. “It was Anya all this time? I’ve watched him fuck my own wife?” Ryan’s eyes grew wild with anger. “This is why he’s kept me from meeting her. Everyone said I couldn’t meet her until after their claim was complete!” Ryan’s heart sank. He fisted his rain-soaked hair. “Goddamnit! Steffan’s probably already claimed her. You have to come with me. Confirm this with the rest of the family. I have to get her back!” Ryan started to run off to his car as he dragged Madeline by the wrist behind him. Madeline pulled back from Ryan’s hold. “Wait, Ryan! Wait! Come with me. We need to talk and think this through. I have the evidence you need to formally present this to the entire family. Don’t you see? He broke the law. Even Steffan is not above the law.” “I don’t care about the fucking law. I want what is rightfully mine. I want Anya!” Ryan took off again with Madeline in tow. She dug her heels into the ground and punched his arm relentlessly with her free hand. “Listen to me! Be smart about this!” Madeleine screamed as Ryan continued his run down the hill. “Stop!” Ryan released her, and she fell to the ground abruptly. Ryan continued toward his Mercedes. “He’s too powerful. He will kill you, Ryan! He’ll stop you before you ever get to see her. You need the help of this entire family to conquer Steffan!” Madeline screamed as she sat on the ground, drenched by the rain. Ryan didn’t stop. He had made it to the car and opened the driver’s door.

Veil of Seduction

239

“I’m the only one who can break the spell of Steffan’s enthrallment on Anya!” she screamed. Ryan was just about to start the car when he stopped. Madeleine’s words rang in his ear. She was right. If he just barged in to Steffan’s house, he would kill him. Steffan had already warned him of his protection instincts over Anya during the claim. And even if he got to Anya, she wouldn’t believe him. She was deep in Steffan’s enthrallment. He needed Madeleine. Madeline made her way to the car, opened the passenger door, and got in. “Drive. I’ll take you to my cabin. You can see the evidence for yourself,” she said softly as she caught her breath. **** Sheets of lightning burned through the sky, illuminating the deep-violet clouds above the darkened highway. Punctuated crackling fractured the silence between them in the vehicle. The relentless wind and rain made it difficult to see all of the twists and turns in the pavement. The sound of the raindrops slowly turned into a deafening staccato drumbeat against the metal and glass. “Fuck! This hail is going to ruin my car! Where are we going? How much farther is it to your cabin?” “Woodland Park. It’s not much farther.” With Madeline’s directions, Ryan pulled off of the highway and turned onto a dirt-and-gravel road. The incline of the road was steep and narrow. “Swing a left right after you make it to the top of this hill.” Ryan took a left into a tree-lined driveway. An A-frame cabin appeared in the distance. “Why do you live all the way out here? I thought Steffan said all of the families lived in Manitou?” “I do live in Manitou. This is my weekend retreat.” Ryan slowed the vehicle as he reached the cabin and looked around. “Great, no garage?” “Nope.” Madeleine opened the passenger door and looked back at Ryan as he sulked in his seat. “Look, deal with it. You live in Colorado. You’re bound to get stuck in a hailstorm or two. Let’s go inside.”

240

Maya DeLeina

Ryan sat on the faux bearskin rug, staring down at the contents that sat in a cardboard box. The crackling of the fire was the only sound in the room. The cabin’s interior was cozy. Rustic accents filled the room. Above him, an antler chandelier washed the room with ambient lighting. Pine-andcinnamon-scented candles perfumed the air. “I just can’t believe this!” Ryan said, rummaging through the box full of photo albums, newspaper clippings, marriage certificates, and documents, anything and everything that linked Ryan and Anya together. “He erased my entire life, my entire existence. I don’t remember any of this. I’m looking at myself in these pictures, but it doesn’t feel like me.” Madeline sat on the couch opposite Ryan. “Steffan came to me after turning you. He wanted to know everything about you. I reported back to him about your wife. I told him how distraught and devastated she was after you disappeared. I told Steffan to release you so you could reunite with her immediately. He was about to do just that, until I did the wrong thing by mentioning how beautiful Anya was and that she was a cellist. His face lit up. ” Ryan eyes began to burn with rage again. “Then what?” “He seemed obsessed. He demanded that I collect all I could on Anya and bring it to him. I took things from your office, the music studio, and your home.” “You took these things from my home? Why would you take things from Anya? “I had to! Once I got these, I called him to arrange a meeting at his house, the normal protocol. Steffan instead asked to meet here. He was immediately enchanted with Anya. He then asked me to…” Madeline stopped as her eyes began to tear. “What? What exactly did Steffan command you to do?” “He told me to burn all of this evidence and to come up with a different background to provide the family. He wanted Anya for himself, so he created a story that he felt a connection to her with something that belonged to you. ” Ryan stood and raised his voice in anger. “Why? Why did you just go along? This was my life and Anya’s life you guys were messing with here!” Madeline sat up and moved to the edge of the sofa, pleading with Ryan to understand her position. “Ryan, I was a single parent and struggling to

Veil of Seduction

241

make ends meet in my human life. One night, Steffan found me badly beaten and slowly dying of my injuries in the park and he turned me. My daughter was only two years old at that time. She’s sixteen years old now. I promised myself that I would wait until she was old enough for the change, so we could always be together.” “Wait a minute. Steffan turned you? A human?” “Yes.” She responded quickly and plainly. Then suddenly, her eyes went wide, as if she just recalled something. “Why do you ask?” “Eilian and Rhys told me I was the first human Steffan ever turned. They made me feel sorry for him, that I was his first, and I ended up turning black. So they say.” Madeline was quiet, assessing Ryan’s look of confusion as he formulated the answer on his own. “Damn it! I knew it! They’re all in on it! Holy Shit! Rhys! The guy looks as if he’s ready to kill me at any second! But I don’t understand what the hell your daughter has to do with me and Anya anyway.” “That night, Steffan threatened to take her life if I didn’t bury this evidence and alter the background report on you. Forgive me, but I couldn’t risk my daughter’s life. I had no other choice.” Tears streamed down Madeleine’s face. Ryan’s face softened with the realization of what Madeline was facing at the hands of Steffan. “Why did you come to me now with this? Aren’t you still afraid? Sniffling, Madeline explained. “Not anymore. You see, my daughter has severe peanut allergies. She was at the park with friends last week when they rushed her home. She was swollen. Her tongue swelled and her throat was closing. She couldn’t get any air. The kids didn’t even have the sense to call the ambulance. What’s worse, she didn’t have her epinephrine injector with her. I ran upstairs to get the one we store in the medicine cabinet and plunged it deep into her leg. It worked, but only for a brief second. She started convulsing. The kids were scared and finally confessed that they’d been experimenting with meth. That’s why they didn’t call the ambulance. So there was my daughter, laid out in front of me with a high dose of meth, and I’d just injected her full of concentrated epinephrine. The convulsing stopped, but she was unresponsive. Her breathing was shallow and her pulse

242

Maya DeLeina

faint. She was dying right in front of me. I sent the kids out of the house.” Madeline paused for a minute. “I had no choice but to change her before her heart stopped beating. So now, I have a vampire for a daughter who will never mature past the age of sixteen. At least Steffan can no longer hold her well-being over my head.” “Anise. That’s what you came up with to alter the report?” “Yes. Anise had already died in a car accident earlier, so it was a perfect cover-up.” Madeline started crying without restraint. “I’m sorry, Ryan, I had no choice. Forgive me.” Ryan held Madeline in his arms to console her. “You did what you had to do. I understand what you were up against, and I forgive you. Now, you can make it up to me. Help me expose what he’s done so I can get my wife back.” For a brief moment, Madeleine had quieted in his embrace. But soon after releasing her, she returned to her panic-stricken state. “Ryan, he didn’t simply commit an offense to our written creed, he broke one of our highest laws. According to this, his actions will require death. Our kind cannot accept deception of that nature, especially one with his powers. Once a vampire is found to harbor deceit, they have to be destroyed. With all of our extraordinary abilities, we need ground rules to live by for civility. Otherwise, we’ll be right back where we started when our kind first roamed the earth. There’s nothing more deadly than a powerful vampire with no morals.” Madeline paused. Even with all she’d revealed, Ryan was reluctant to accept a fate of death for Steffan. With a devilish look in her eye, Madeline continued, “And with Steffan destroyed, our family will need a new leader. I can’t think of anyone but you, with all that you’ve gone through. You could uphold our creed and laws keep us all safe from rogues and from each other and build our family’s wealth by overseeing the sales and distribution of Defender and Consumption.” Ryan felt a sudden spark of anticipation rush through his veins, “Well, my name translates to king. Yes, I think I would be a perfect!” ****

Veil of Seduction

243

Anya walked alongside Steffan. He cradled Michelle in his arms as they made their way to one of the guest rooms in the house. It was nine o’clock in the evening. The day’s events and the wine had taken their toll on Michelle. She had been interested in trying Anya’s mysterious red wine during dinner. The label simply read, Private Reserve. Steffan embellished, explaining it came from a winery he visited while in Italy, in the small town of Montalcino. It was a rare wine, a blend that was hand-crafted through a special aging process and could only be purchased from the winery itself. No matter how special the wine, Michelle was repulsed by the taste, commenting that it had a vinegar undertone and resorted instead to finishing the bottle of Moscato on her own. Steffan and Anya quietly exchanged a smile. Anya looked at Michelle, sound asleep in Steffan’s arms. “She’s out cold. She shouldn’t hear us, right?” “I wouldn’t be so sure about that, cariad. You know I can’t control myself with you. I’ll do a boundary just in case.” Steffan bent over, gently lay Michelle on the bed and pulled the covers over her body. Steffan walked over to Anya. He stood behind her, wrapping his arms tightly around her as they looked at Michelle’s peaceful state. “Look at her. She finally looks at peace. She harbored that guilt for so long. I can’t believe after all these years we’ve known each other, she couldn’t find a way to tell me about Dominic. I’m open-minded. I could’ve handled it.” “Really? This morning you were panic-stricken, not knowing how to tell her that about me and if she was going to be open-minded to accept the existence of vampires.” “All right, I see your point.” Anya sighed and continued, “Maybe we shouldn’t have let her drink the entire bottle. I didn’t really intend for her to stay overnight, especially not tonight.” “We do have another house, you know,” Steffan said as he started tracing his lips at her ear. “Steffan, there’s no furniture in that house anymore. You know that. I can’t have her sleeping on the floor.”

244

Maya DeLeina

“I could move the bed. It’s really no problem. I’ll have recreated this room for her over there in five minutes…tops.” “Steffan!” Steffan chuckled and continued his worship of her body, planting slow and delicious kisses at her ear and down her neck. Anya leaned her head back into Steffan, relishing the way her body tingled at the slightest trace of his soft lips. “God, I wanted this to be our special night. I wanted everything to be perfect. I’m so sorry Steffan, but I couldn’t let her drive her in her condition.” “I know, Anya. It will still be perfect. We’re completing the claim tonight,” Steffan whispered. He leaned in close to her ear. “But I have to admit, I was looking forward to spending the entire day locked away in the bedroom with my mate tomorrow. I’m interested in knowing what abilities you possess before you’re presented to the family in the midnight ceremony.” Anya shook her head with the realization of how much attention Michelle would require tomorrow. “And she’ll have a massive hangover that I would probably have to nurse.” Anya paused as a thought crossed her mind. “Steffan?” “Do I have the ability to cast any deep-sleep spells?” Steffan phrased her thought in a question before she could say the words. Anya turned to face Steffan. “Damn, I keep forgetting you can do that. And by the way, did you know you have a weakness that no other man in my life had?” “Weakness?” Steffan looked at Anya as she stood with her hand on her hip. “How do you mean?” “If I ever catch an inappropriate thought of a woman in your mind or if I see your eyes burn in a red, passionate heat for another woman…” Anya trailed off. Her playfulness took a sudden turn. Her belly twitched and her heart ached. The thought of Ryan’s indiscretions traced through her memory. Quickly, she engaged her mental blocking, dismissing the thought completely and shook off the look of anger and sadness that she felt etched on her face. Steffan didn’t appear to notice. He reached for Anya and pulled her to his chest. “You are so damn sexy when you’re jealous.”

Veil of Seduction

245

Anya fluttered her eyes. “So, sleep spells?” “Well, I can enthrall, not to erase memory, but to command. Our creed dictates that if we’re not feeding, enthrallment can only be performed on a human to either protect our existence or to protect the human.” “So it won’t hurt her or damage her?” Anya asked. “No, not at all. In fact, I would be performing it to protect her technically, so she can sleep through the effects of the hangover. I won’t be breaking the creed. What about Chloe? ” “Her ex has Chloe for the weekend. He’s taking her to the amusement park and the aquarium in Denver tomorrow morning. He wasn’t going to call to check in till they got back in the evening anyway.” “Then let’s do it. I want her safe and comfortable, here with us. But let’s just have her wake late in the day.” Anya nodded and watched Steffan make his way to the bed. **** Steffan sat at the edge of the bed and reached for Michelle. He lifted her hand to his lips and gently kissed her. Suddenly, he caught a glimpse of Anya slapping Michelle’s hand away from his lips in her mind. Steffan turned around to look at Anya. Her body jerked as Steffan eyes met hers. Anya’s jealousy shot a tinge of excitement through this body. “Sorry. I just want your lips to touch my skin,” she admitted sheepishly. “It’s just a part of the spell enthrallment. Don’t fret, my love.” Waves of confusion and uncertainty rolled in his mind. Minutes earlier, he had tried to slip into Anya’s mind but was unsuccessful. Why could I see that image clearly when earlier, I could only see a bright light? He determined that he may have had a null spot in picking up Anya’s thoughts as the claim still had to be fulfilled. “Go on, please proceed.” Anya motioned toward Michelle, reassuring Steffan. Steffan returned to Michelle’s hand. He kissed it gently once again and spoke in a low, methodical tone that almost seemed to have a melodic, singing quality.

246

Maya DeLeina

“Michelle, listen to my voice. Trust in me. I am your protector. Open your eyes.” Michelle opened her eyes and stared blankly at the ceiling. “I am afraid that you are not feeling well and will need some muchneeded rest so your body and mind can fully cover. Do you trust in what I am saying?” “I do.” “You must remain asleep for twenty hours, uninterrupted, to fully regenerate. When you wake, your mind will remember talking with Anya and Steffan and drinking wine into the wee hours of the morning. When you wake, Anya and Steffan will be waiting for you, with a nice meal prepared to nourish your body. When you wake, Chloe will be waiting anxiously for your call. Will you do as I say and recall as I planned?” “Yes.” “Good, Michelle. It’s time to start your sleep. Good night. Sleep well.” Michelle closed her eyes and immediately produced a deep snore that echoed through the room. “So you can induce a sleep command, but you can do nothing for the snore?” “I do what I can. Come, my love, we have twenty hours.” Steffan walked to the door and held out his hand.

Veil of Seduction

247

Chapter Nineteen They walked hand in hand down the hallway, leaving behind Michelle to rest peacefully. With every step, their gaze deepened on one another. Their awareness heightened on the profound passage on which they were about to embark. The intensity of the moment engulfed Anya. The rhythm of her heart intensified, filling her chest with a vibrating sensation, as if the reverberation of a marching band bass drum had just crossed her path. Steffan pulled Anya close into his chest and let the rhythm and inflection of his breath calm her. They stood in the middle of the catwalk, hovering at the top of the grand staircase. Steffan rested his gaze at the wall of glass that flanked the great room below, cradling Anya in his embrace. The falling rain obscured the sharpness of the sparkling lights of the city. The golden illumination blurred, as if in a sensual and romantic dreamscape. “I love you, Anya,” Steffan whispered. “I’ve waited more than a mortal man’s eternity to find you. What you are about to give to me…” Steffan paused to catch his breath. “…is the most selfless act imaginable. I will spend the rest of our eternity showing you my gratefulness for your love and your devotion in every conceivable way.” Anya’s muscles weakened with his words and started to quiver. Her fingers, toes, nose, and ears all tingled. Steffan released his embrace and let his gaze lay on the woman who was about to become his mate. Her eyes were glassy, and her bottom lip trembled in his evaluating stare. “I’m not changing my mind, Steffan. I have no doubts,” Anya assured him. “This is what I want. This life with you is all I want.” Tears rolled down her cheeks. “I’m just scared. I’m so very scared.” Steffan moved in closer to Anya and gently cupped her face in his hands. “Of course. You are about to confront death. Fear is natural. For most of our

248

Maya DeLeina

kind, we never had time for this type of reflection…we never knew what was about to happen to us. For you, it’s different. You’ve had time to contemplate and face the choice of mortality in exchange for immortality.” Steffan kissed her on the forehead, holding her close. “I can only imagine the fear you have in you now, but I’m here to see you through this. I will not let you go. You will die, but I will ensure that my blood will have you born again.” “I guess I keep thinking I have only this one life, one body, one voice, one heart. I am afraid of losing the unseen part of my living being. I’m afraid of losing my soul.” “That is what you think, Anya? That you lose your soul? The soul is eternal. It’s the embodiment of you and only you. It’s undying. You don’t lose you. You still exist. It is our two souls that fated us as mates.” Anya lifted to her tiptoes and kissed Steffan deeply. They explored each other’s depths with a powerful mix of emotions. Steffan laced his fingers with Anya’s as they separated from their passionate exchange. “We’ll take it slow. We will only have one night quite like this, and I want to savor everything human about you for one last time.” They made their way to the opposite end of the catwalk. Beyond the double doors at the end of the hallway was the room in which Anya would face her death and birth. Her eyes filled with tears of excitement, love, and anxiety. Steffan paused and turned around to face the catwalk. He closed his eyes for a moment in deep concentration. Anya watched as the air in front of him vibrated and morphed in the stillness of the evening, a clear bending and weaving in the unseen space. “Was that boundary?” she asked. Steffan nodded in response and turned back around to the entrance of their master bedroom. “Go ahead, my love, open the doors.” Anya pressed both hands against the doors and pushed her way through to the room. Red rose petals lay across the wooden floors, creating a meandering path in two directions—one to the bed, dressed in black, silk sheets. Red rose petals pooled in the middle of the bed as sheer, black fabric cascaded down from the canopy above. The other path wound around the corner to the master bath. Anya followed the petal path with Steffan at her heels.

Veil of Seduction

249

“Steffan!” Anya exclaimed as she rounded the corner and let her eyes rest on the rose petals that floated in the bathtub. Anya walked to the elevated platform that sat centered in front of the expansive window and made her way up the stairs. The exotic wood floors at the top of the platform transitioned into black slate tile. Anya looked down at the large oval infinity-edge bathtub that sunk into the ground. Diffused light glowed in the water resembling a miniature swimming pool. Steffan’s private reserve wine and two glasses sat at the edge of the tub. “Do you like your present?” “So beautiful! When? How?” Anya said in utter shock, not forming complete thoughts or phrases as she walked back down the platform and settled next to Steffan. “While you were recovering. Eilian and I just finished up the last of the details while you were with Michelle. Did you notice that somehow, you were drawn to the bath down the hall instead of our master?” “Now that you mention it, yes!” “Forgive me, but I placed a boundary around this area to keep it a secret.” Steffan reached for the hem of his black T-shirt and lifted it over his head. The sight of his bare chest, back, and arms flooded Anya with desire. Steffan reached for the loops that hooked around Anya’s middle finger and undid each side. He slid her delicate shrug from her shoulders and let it drop carelessly to the floor. His eyes were fixated on Anya’s, undeniable and powerful. Steffan’s hands landed on each side of her hips, moving to the hem of her white tank top and lifting it up from her body as she raised her hands in the air. He tucked his fingers under her belt and into the waistband of her long skirt and slowly inched it down past her hips and to the floor. Steffan stood back, removing his jeans, his gaze remaining fixated on Anya. She removed her bra and thong. She started to reach behind, planning to unhook her coin belt when Steffan stopped her in her tracks. “No. Keep that on for a minute.” Steffan slid his black briefs down his legs then leaned against the wall. He was rock hard. His hands engulfed his magnificent length and width, stroking up and down, rounding the tip at times. “Shake your hips for me.” “I can’t dance, Steffan. It’s not good.” “Anya, close your eyes.”

250

Maya DeLeina

Anya closed her eyes as instructed. “The music, listen to it with your soul.” Anya concentrated on the eclectic flavor of the music that piped into the room. She let herself go, not concentrating on each individual instruments, but hearing the rhythm the fusion created. “Now, imagine me under you, Anya. Move your hips as you would on top of me.” Anya pictured Steffan’s masculine body under her, and her body exploded in undulating movements. Slowly, she circled her hips, her movements small. She tilted her head back, her breasts on full display. She circled her hips with a deeper movement, the coins echoing her progression. Even with her eyes closed, she knew Steffan was standing in front of her, eyes wild with desire. Anya pitched one of her legs forward, pointing her toe to the ground. Her hips changed course, moving back and forth, her abdomen rolling with the movement. Suddenly, Anya felt Steffan’s strong hands wrap around her hips. Anya’s eyes flew open in surprise. “Steffan?” “Yes?” Steffan whispered as he lifted her up, placing her feet back on the floor. Only this time, she was standing on the second step that led up to the tub. “Hmm, are you compensating for height differential here?” “Maybe.” Steffan stood tall, situated on the first step in front of Anya. She gasped. Steffan tucked his rock-hard length between her legs, sliding below her wetness. “Oh my god!” Anya said breathlessly. Steffan positioned Anya’s legs close together, squeezing him tighter between her thighs. “Now, continue,” Steffan whispered softly. Anya moved her hips back and forth as she held Steffan’s lustful gaze. She was dripping wet with desire. He was below her, sliding the length of his shaft just under her folds, teasing her with his veins and contours. She begged for his entry. “Not yet. Just concentrate on how my cock feels, delicately tracing your flesh,” he whispered.

Veil of Seduction

251

Anya rested her forehead against Steffan. She settled into her rhythmic hip movement, her thighs holding him securely in place. His hard and veiny cock rubbed against her pussy, soothing the naughty ache that throbbed insistently. Her pulse quickened and her breath grew deeper, faster, and hotter with each passing second. She was flowing like a river now, lacing him with her sweetness. “Oh my god, Steffan!” “That’s it, my love. Let yourself go.” She could feel it. It was almost there. Her legs could barely keep her up. Her nipples were rock hard and sensitive. The friction grew to an all-out yearning, aching for a deep release. Her mound, swollen beyond compare, burned with desire. Before she knew it, it was here. “Steffan!” Anya’s orgasm was intense, drifting in waves, dialing up deep, uncontrolled spasms, each one more intense than the other. She quaked as she held him tightly between her thighs, the shimming sound of her coin belt echoing her vibration. “Did that feel good, cariad?” “Good? It was…magnificent!” **** They wasted no time submerging their bodies deep in the bathtub, Anya settling in place between Steffan’s legs. He reached for the wine and poured two glasses. “Here, my love, drink,” he said, handing a glass to Anya. The smell of white tea and jasmine filled the air as Steffan lathered a bath sponge and slowly washed Anya’s back. She closed her eyes and savored the wine as it slipped past her lips. “Steffan, you will tell me how to do it right?” “Drink from me?” “Yes.” “When the time comes, I think you will find your instincts will take over.” “If it’s your blood in this wine, will you taste just as good? I mean, there are dark chocolate undertones in this that I’ve never quite tasted before.”

252

Maya DeLeina

“So chocolate is your catalyst. Love, I will taste much better. So much that you will be tempted to drink me dry. But I’ll trust in your ability to control yourself.” “But you tasted like copper that night in the park, when you cut your finger. Why will it taste different now?” “The wine has gone through an aging process that extracts the sweetness of my blood to fit the human palate. My blood, in the purest form right now, won’t have any flavor for you to pick up on. Tonight, we will be at the right time, when our blood has had time to mix from the rituals and has developed a unique taste palatable for just the two of us. I’m guessing that drinking directly from my veins will be like drinking from one of those chocolate fountains. ” “Really?” Anya shook her head. “Steffan, if that is the case, help me if I can’t help myself so I don’t hurt you.” “I’ll help you through every part of it.” “So, I get the taste, but what it will feel like when I drink? Can you describe it?” “I don’t know what to compare it to in a human form. I can’t recall anything quite like the sensation. But when Rhys turned Brynne, she mentioned that it felt like she had licked the ends of a battery, where the energy would pass right through her. It was like sending a tingling sensation and amplifying the taste of something you already have a strong appetite for all at once. Does that help?” “Yeah. I get what she saying about the sensation with the battery. I’ve done that when I was younger,” Anya said as she chucked. “And the taste of me, what is it like for you?” “Like dark chocolate laced with cinnamon. It seems as if we both have a strong affinity for chocolate.” Steffan put down the sponge and began to massage Anya’s neck and shoulders. “Anya, I have one regret in claiming you as my mate.” Steffan paused as he drew closer to her ear. “Children.” Anya nodded as she held her wine, letting the bottom of the glass balance on her knees that barely surfaced from the water. “Michelle and I talked about it, too. It’s like I told her, nothing has changed for me even as I face the finality of the issue. The clock never started ticking for me like other women. I don’t know why. I’ll admit, I held on to the possibility,

Veil of Seduction

253

thinking my cutoff point was forty. Even if I never intended to explore the option, it just always felt like something I had to hold on to, because I was a woman, because of society’s expectations. Instead of feeling like a plan that I was going to fulfill, with each passing year, it felt more like a looming deadline, a countdown to when I would have to face reality and admit it as a conscious choice rather than a vision that never came to fruition.” “So, you will be able to accept that we will never have the ability to produce children? I look at you, and my thoughts drift, wondering what it would be like to watch your belly swell with my child growing inside. For me, it’s wishful thinking. But, I’ve had years to accept that I will never know what it is like to be a father and to have the love of a child. I just want to make sure this is something you’ve given some consideration to. ” Anya put down her glass and turned around in the tub to face Steffan. “You are the only man to have ever stirred a remote thought in that area for me. But it doesn’t mean I’m giving up anything just to be with you. It was something I already came to terms with as a conscious decision before you even came along. Besides, what kind of life would this be for a child? I couldn’t bear to watch my own child die of disease or old age, nor could I bear the thought of a turning and freezing their existence in an adolescent stage.” “I see you’ve given this much thought.” Anya nodded. “I want you to know something. Eilian and I are exploring the possibilities of reproduction for our kind.” “What? Impossible!” “Once upon a time, a vampire could not walk in the sun or consume food. Now look at us. Nothing is ever impossible.” Steffan paused and shook his head. “But this project has hit so many roadblocks in just the ethics alone. We don’t want children to be children forever. We have to discover a way to manipulate any remaining human cells we retain after turning for growth. Then the questions come into play. What age do you stop the aging process? What is the perfect age to attain for immortality?” “Good questions. I never thought about all of that. I’m just floored. I can’t believe you and Eilian are doing this.” Anya’s face lit up with excitement.

254

Maya DeLeina

Steffan sighed. “Anya, we are so far from figuring any of this out. And as a vampire, when I say this will take a long time, I mean a long, long time. This I why I want to make sure you’ve thought long and hard about this before we do anything that can’t be reversed.” Anya lifted her hand to gently brush Steffan’s face. “I am sure. I’ve come to terms with it and I have no doubts about my choice.” Steffan reached for Anya and pulled her onto him, straddling his lap. “And this is your choice? I am the man you want to be with, irrevocably?” “Oh god, yes!” Anya moved her hips slowly over Steffan’s swollen shaft under the water. “Help me remember once it’s complete. Promise me you won’t let me forget anything.” “Your heart is pure, Anya, you’ll remember everything you cherished,” Steffan reassured her. “Please. I’m scared of losing me. Promise me, don’t let me forget.” Steffan fisted his hands in her wet hair and leaned her forehead against his. “I promise you, you will not forget. I will help you remember everything.” Anya kissed Steffan, her tongue wild in taking his mouth. “I’m feeling uncontrollable, Steffan,” she whispered during her releases from his mouth. “My heart feels like it’s going to jump right from my chest.” “Anya,” Steffan said, entranced with Anya’s kisses and focused on the movement of her hips, submerged in a rhythm that released a wild need to be loved. “Yes?” “Your body is telling you it’s time.” Steffan lifted her from the tub and set her feet on the black tile floor. From the looks of the floor, she expected to be met with an immediate chill. But she stood there, wiggling her toes against the heated sensation below her feet. “Heated tiles. Nice” Steffan smiled and stepped out of the tub. Water dripping from his chiseled muscles was a delicious sight. He reached for a towel, wrapping Anya in the thickness of the cotton, drying her naked body. Anya reached for a towel and patted Steffan’s skin dry in response. Steffan lifted Anya from the warmth of the tiles into the heat of his embrace. “Anya DeVera, can I claim you, make you mine? Make you Mrs. Anya Matthews?”

Veil of Seduction

255

“Yes. Claim me!” Steffan cradled Anya in his arms, his naked body maneuvering them to the bed. Their eyes remained transfixed on each other. He placed one knee on the bed and gently laid Anya’s body on the velvety rose petals. He opened her legs wide and situated himself at her glistening sweetness on display for him. Tucking a rose petal between his fingers, he traced every intimate line and shape with the velvety petal. Up and down, side to side he moved. He was imaginative and unpredictable—sometimes using just the edge of the petal to trace lightly on her skin, other times pressing the velvety petal firmly against her. He even captured the petal in his teeth, affording him an up close and personal view of her trembling body. The velvet sensation on her sensitive flesh shot a fiery craving throughout her body. “Oh my god!” Anya’s airy whisper echoed in the room. The petal fell back into place, diving back into the pool on the bed as his tongue eagerly took its place, tracing each curve and fold. His masculine hands splayed across her chest, massaging her luscious breasts in each hand. Anya whimpered below him, throwing her head back and creating a prominent arch with her body. Watching Anya’s body contort in the throes of passion sparked vigor in Steffan, and his tongue delved deeper inside her, taking in her essence. **** Steffan reached for another open bottle of wine that sat on the nightstand. “Anya, drink. I want enough in you to ease any pain.” Anya propped her body up on her elbows as Steffan kneeled between her legs. He held the bottle to her lips and tipped it upward, cradling the back of her head. She drank, her black hair cascading down the length of her bare, sensual back. A stream of the dark-red wine escaped Anya’s lips, trickling down her chin and settling in between her breasts. She gasped as the wine flowed down to her neck and chest. She looked up at Steffan. A deep-seated craving burned in his eyes as he drenched her in his tantalizing elixir. He placed the bottle on the nightstand and dipped his head,

256

Maya DeLeina

lapping up the rivulets from her body. He pulled Anya up to a sitting position as his tongue made one last sweep over her clavicle. “Drink more, my love.” Steffan reached for the bottle and poured the wine down his body. His thumb methodically positioned over the opening of the bottle to direct the flow. The wine flowed down his shoulders, cascading off of the prominent curve of his chest, and pooled into Anya’s mouth below. Anya swallowed and then filled her mouth with his cock. Steffan held on to a piece of the canopy material with his free hand to steady himself, her sudden taking of his body was wild. Anya gazed into Steffan’s eyes as she slowly took in his entire length. His velvety tip nudged the back of her throat and she squinted as she swallowed against him, guiding him further down her throat. Steffan moaned at the erotic performance. Anya’s eyes were watery but solid in her lustful gaze upon him. She released his shaft, tracing his thickness with her tongue and outlining his pulsing veins. Steffan poured the wine again, this time controlling the pour just above his navel. The streams ran down the contours of his rippled abdomen muscles, down to his groin. Anya slurped up the wine that dripped from his erect shaft and moved her way up. Dark-red splashes speckled Anya’s face. She moved in a snakelike motion, slithering up from his navel to his chest, soaking up the remnants of wine with her tongue that still clung to his flesh. Steffan cradled her chin and licked the wine from her face. On his last swipe, her tongue caught his, entwining recklessly. The wine bottle thudded against the floor as Steffan lost his grip on it in the midst of his rapture. He motioned Anya down to the pillows, to lie on her side. He positioned himself behind her, fitting closely against her, spooning her form. Steffan raised her leg and propped it up around his thighs. Anya gently bent forward at the hips to accept his entry. Slowly, Steffan slid himself through her moistened folds, both of them releasing moans of pure ecstasy. He hugged Anya tightly around her neck, plunging his full length into her. She looked behind to capture Steffan’s gaze. He seized her lips, and they settled into the decadent kiss. Their lovemaking was sensual and intimate, each being fulfilled beyond words, riding the waves of utter pleasure.

Veil of Seduction

257

“You feel so good inside of me,” Anya whispered as Steffan’s forehead lay against her check. She panted erotically. Her body reveled in pure ecstasy. Her lips were swollen, flushed in a deep shade of pink. She bit down on them, longing to feel the play of Steffan’s teeth biting her sensually once again. Everything she felt coursing through her body—pleasure, happiness, contentment, and security—was all of his doing. She responded to him in a way that no man ever could elicit. A burning desire shot through her, a craving that went far beyond the flesh. She ached to breathe his breath as his eternal mate. An overload of emotion and stimulation congregated at the moment, and Anya began to cry. “No man made me has ever made me this way. Take me, spread me open. Fill me.” “No man will ever have you the way I have you, Anya. I’m going to make you feel all of my love.” Steffan released his hold on Anya and repositioned himself. He kneeled, straddling her left leg. Anya curled her right leg around him. Steffan leaned forward and gripped her shoulders as he penetrated her deeply. “Keep your eyes on me. Watch what your love does to me,” Steffan demanded, tucking his arm under her right leg and pushing her deeper into his thrust. Anya screamed out in pleasure as he buried himself to the hilt, leaving no inch of her core unnavigated, unexplored. She synchronized her movements to his slow, deep rhythm, tracing every vein and ridge with her walls. They rocked against each other, slowly and methodically like the ebb and flow of a gentle sea. “I need your mouth on me. Take me. Suck!” Anya begged. The voice that escaped her body didn’t sound like her own. An indescribable hunger boiled in her belly. It fluttered around low in her stomach, sending vibrating pulses to her groin, down to her toes and shooting electric currents to her heart. Steffan’s eyes burned passionate red. “It’s time to seal our fate. My body needs your blood. I need to drain you…almost completely in order for you to complete the claim with your drink from my veins. Anya, don’t be scared.” Steffan’s teeth descended from the veil of tissue that masked their existence.

258

Maya DeLeina

“I trust you. Drink, Steffan,” Anya cried out. Steffan ran his teeth up and down her breast, lightly grazing her flesh. He pulled back slightly, taking a deep breath in, and plunged his teeth deep into her right breast. Anya screamed at the stabbing pain of his entry. She wrapped her hands behind his head, entwining her fingers in his hair as her body contracted with his taking. Steffan continued to thrust his cock slow and deep into her while he gulped down her liquid fire. Her body was draining quickly. She could see traces of the dark-red liquid slipping from his mouth, his intake barely keeping pace with the speed of her blood flow. A bitter cold began to fill her, icing her veins. Her mind blurred, yet she was still very aware of the mind-numbing stimulation all of Steffan’s entry points were doing to her. Her muscles gripped tightly around Steffan’s thick cock, milking him, begging for his hot release. With every gulp he took, she sank deeper and deeper into bliss. Anya’s breath quickened. Suddenly her toes curled, and a marked wetness drenched her pussy walls. “I’m coming! I’m coming!” Steffan was deep in a trance from his feeding on Anya. Gasping, he released Anya. Blood dripped freely from his mouth. His teeth were stained a pinkish-red hue. “Anya? How do you feel?” “Weak, but never so aroused in my life. How do you feel?” “I’m anxious for you to drink from me.” Steffan slid his cock out of her. He sat up and repositioned Anya’s body. He spread her legs wide and extended his body over her, quickly positioning himself to slide back into her, “I love you, Anya. When you’re ready to drink me, let me know,” he whispered. “How will I know?” “Trust me, you’ll know.” Steffan’s hands wrapped around his thickness, guiding himself to Anya’s drenched opening. He slid in, her welcoming warmth tightly bound around him. He thrust hard, all the way into her and pumped rhythmically, his breath intensifying with every movement. An undeniable rumble deep in Anya’s belly, and a sudden, unquenched hunger enveloped her senses. Never before had she felt this famished or obsessed. This must be it.

Veil of Seduction

259

“Steffan, I’m ready. I think it’s time.” Steffan took a deep breath and watched Anya intently as she licked her lips. A quick pierce of his razor-sharp nail penetrated the junction where his neck met his shoulder. He hovered over her, allowing his black blood to trickle into her mouth. Anya could smell the sweetness of the chocolate undertones spewing from the wound, the taste of the decadent darkness teasing her lips in a slow drip. With great passion, she instinctively latched on to the wound and feasted on his sweet nectar. She wrapped her legs around him, pulling him closer to her body. Steffan slipped his hand under her and cradled the back of her head as she drank. Anya’s drinking intensified. Steffan sat back on his heels, pulling Anya up from the mattress and positioning her to straddle him. He stroked deep, his hand on her buttocks, guiding her up and down his cock. He ground into her vigorously, over and over again. “Anya, I’m going to come.” Anya released from the wound and drove her fingers into his mouth to capture his saliva. With a swipe of her fingers, the wound was closed. Steffan gazed up at Anya as her mouth dripped with his blood. “Anya!” Steffan cried out. His body rippled with every wave of his release that shot deep into Anya, claiming her. “Oh my god, I love you, Steffan.” “I love you, Anya.” Anya panted as the afterglow of their union beamed from her body. “When is it going—” Anya froze in midsentence. “Anya?” Steffan laid Anya’s head down on the pillows. Anya’s eyes darted back at Steffan in pure fear. She tried to speak, but nothing would release from her body. Her arms began to wail about frantically. Her hands were flailing, clawing at her throat and at his chest in a full-blown panic. It burns! The pain! No. No. I’m scared. Steffan, please help me. I can’t do this, Anya screamed in her mind. Tears rolled down Steffan’s face. “I hear you, love. I hear you. I’m going to be right here. Don’t be scared. You will come back to me.”

260

Maya DeLeina

Oh my god. I can’t do this. I can’t breathe. Everything hurts. I’m dying, Steffan! I’m dying! Anya reached for Steffan’s face and clutched it tightly. “I know, love. I know. You are dying. Your body is shutting down. I’m so sorry. I wish I could take this pain from you,” Steffan muttered through his tears. He wept uncontrollably. “Oh no. No! Steffan, you keep fading in and out…I can’t feel anything but pain. I can’t feel…me. Please help me. I’m scared. Please…I don’t want to die!” “What have I done?” Steffan screamed at himself. Suddenly, Anya quieted in her panic. Something inside calmed her, allowing her to accept her fate and ready for her death. While the subject of death and dying, what happens to the body and mind in various stages of death and theories of the soul, was nothing new to her, she didn’t quite know what to expect. This was not a normal death. It was unnatural, going against all laws and rules of science and order. She was unprepared, and it tangled within her. In a flurry, she mentally recited a list of music compositions, trying to test the status of her brain functions. She recalled everything vividly, but the stinging realization settled within her. She was no longer in pain. Her receptors no longer ignited body movement. Death was near. She lay still. She needed clarity. Finding peace with what was about to take place was her single-minded thought. She fired the last pieces of energy to do a final assessment. Was this what she truly wanted for herself? “Anya, your death is killing me! I can’t believe how selfish I was to ask this of you! I’m sorry. But I cannot undo what has already been done,” Steffan cried. Instantaneously, the split second of doubt was gone. The same emotional tide that took away drew her back in, closer to Steffan than ever before. She could see the strain on his face, full of anxiety, regret, and blame. She fixed on his gaze, the depth of emotion telling her what she had already known in her soul. She found forever in his eyes. He was where she needed to be. This is what I want. To be your mate, to be with you for an eternity, Anya voiced in her mind, coming to a level of serenity with her decision.

Veil of Seduction

261

Steffan held her hand in his and closed his eyes. He wept wildly. She focused on his face, waiting for a sign of the end. Darkness or light, whatever it would be, she was going to leave behind her mortality, whispering his name. Steffan Matthews, I love you. **** Steffan caught Anya’s last thought as he heard her body expelled its last breath. The shine in Anya’s eyes extinguished suddenly. They were no longer deep with emotion, but simply objects staring back at him, frozen in a panic-stricken state. Steffan sat in shock, examining her shell that just minutes ago, had been so full of life. Everything was silent. There was noise, no movement from Anya. 12:23 a.m. Steffan laid his head on Anya’s chest. He wanted desperately to feel her wake and wrap her arms around him. He ran his hands up and down her body. The heat was escaping her body fast. He was sick to his stomach. She was a healthy woman with so much life ahead of her, and he’d asked her to give it up for him. Soon, Steffan, soon. She will return. We did everything correctly. She will return, Steffan said to himself to calm his nerves. 12:28 a.m. “Anya. It’s been five minutes, love. Please come back to me. Can you hear me?” Steffan listened for a response. Nothing stirred. 12:32 a.m. “Anya, wake up!” Steffan shook Anya’s body. Her bronzed skin was washed in a pale-ash color. “Wake up, damnit! Come back to me. It’s been too long. What is going on?” Steffan panicked, realizing Anya had been dead for almost ten minutes and showed no signs of returning. Turnings typically took no more than five

262

Maya DeLeina

minutes. Some were recorded at nine minutes, but none was ever recorded past that. 12:34 a.m. “Anya!” Steffan shook her violently and frantically started rubbing her down, trying to get the blood she’d consumed from him moving in her body. “Come back to me! Come back! What have I done, my sweet Anya?” Steffan sat back on his heels and cried out. “Anya!”

Veil of Seduction

263

Chapter Twenty Tears devoured Steffan as he ran through all of the steps in his mind. He covered all of them. He was sure of it. Her body’s natural progression of the turning took place without incident. Was her body not strong enough to come back? Did she not consume enough of my blood? Think, damnit, what did I miss? Steffan wrestled with his thoughts just as Eilian came charging through the door. His appearance told the story of his haste to be at Steffan’s aide. He stood bare chested, the top of his jeans unbuttoned, his hair windswept. “You’re here!” A sense of relief washed over Steffan as he finished draping a black, silk sheet over Anya’s nude body. He secured another around his waist and moved from Anya’s side to allow Eilian to examine her. “How long has it been?” Eilian asked as he hovered over Anya’s body, checking for signs of life. Steffan ran his fingers through his hair as he looked at the clock. 12:38 a.m. Tears returned to consume him. “Shit, it’s been over fifteen minutes now.” “And she didn’t show any signs of coming back or least attempting to?” “None! Eilian, I can’t remember any documented account where it took longer than eight minutes for a claimed human to return to their body. Is she gone?” “I don’t know, Steffan. I’ve heard stories of human claims taking longer, but I’ve never seen it documented either. There just isn’t much out there on human-vampire claims.” Eilian shook his head. “Look, we need Rhys here. I want to know everything that happened to Brynne when he claimed her.” Steffan slipped his jeans on under the black, silk sheet as he called Rhys to the house. In a matter of minutes, Rhys was in the master bedroom with Steffan and Eilian.

264

Maya DeLeina

“Brynne only took six minutes to come back, but it was the worst six minutes of my life.” He looked at Steffan’s distraught shell clinging to Anya’s hand. “Sorry, Steffan.” Steffan kept his gaze focused on Anya. He nodded in response to the apology. “Listen, I told Brynne what was going on. She told me something about her turning that could be happening to Anya. And if it is, man, is she going to be one special lady.” “What do you mean?” Steffan asked, breaking his trance. “Brynne said that before she returned to her body, she suspended, her mind and body were trying to learn everything she had acquired from the turning. Brynne seems to think that if Anya is taking this long to come back, she might have a gained quite a bit of unique abilities.” “So, if she is truly just suspended, that would mean her body may have already made the change. She is probably in a vampire body by now so…” Eilian trailed off as he started pacing the room. “What are you thinking?” asked Steffan. “Well, I want to test to see if this is in fact what is happening to Anya. I want to know if she’s just in a suspended state right now. If the claim was successful, her body should already have turned and we’re just waiting for her to return to get everything, how should I say…up and running?” Steffan nodded. “Okay. How do you want to test this?” “Steffan, you’ll have to break a bone. Repair mechanisms are the only thing we can see with the naked eye at this point.” Steffan looked at the clock, closed his eyes, and took in a deep breath. 12:43 a.m. He released his breath slowly as he lifted Anya’s arm to his chest. He opened his eyes and planted a soft kiss on her hand. He held her pinky finger firmly in his hand. “Steffan, you’ll need to test on a bigger bone. We won’t be able to see much of anything on the small bone. It could even be an internal mend,” Eilian said. Steffan nodded in understanding and guided his hands up to Anya’s forearm instead. He repositioned himself, kneeling on the bed. He remained

Veil of Seduction

265

next to her body and closed his eyes. “Eilian, I don’t think I can do this.” Steffan’s voice was tattered and flustered. “You have to. We have to see if her body’s properties have turned to truly understand what’s going on here.” “Let me try to communicate with her once more.” Steffan concentrated, and this time, slowly he picked up the bright lights and white noise. “I hear white noise, and the blinding light is back. She’s still with us! I’ve picked this up from her before!” Steffan exclaimed in relief. “Then that means her body will repair itself. Do it, Steffan. Do it now!” Eilian demanded. Steffan closed his eyes and squeezed his two hands around Anya’s arm, one near her wrist and the other just below her elbow. He slowly rotated his fists. The bone started to fracture, echoing in the room as if sheets of ice were cracking under a heavy snow boot. Steffan continued his motions, swiveling his wrists all the way up until his thumbs faced the ceiling. His face exhibited every grief-stricken emotion that consumed him. “Forgive me, Anya! Please, forgive me.” Steffan took a deep breath and applied the last bit of pressure and force that sent him over the edge “Fuck!” Thwack! The unmistakable sound filled the room. The fierce snap made Rhys and Eilian’s body jump. Steffan’s skin crawled. Without hesitation, thin, black veins crept from Anya’s heart, through her shoulder, and down her arm. Her body’s new natural defenses were employed. The delicate webs traveled with ease just beneath the surface of her skin and congregated at the break. Eilian let out a sign of relief. Steffan remained kneeling above Anya’s body, his head slumped to his chest. Eilian reached out to comfort him and put his hand on Steffan shoulder. “Her body has turned, Steffan. You didn’t damage her. We’ll just have to await her return.” 12:48 a.m. Twenty-five minutes after she died, Anya’s eyes flew open. A wheezing sound pierced the room and she struggled for air. Her eyes rolled back violently in her head as her body jerked brutally in the bed. Her veins protruded under the skin as if an engine had started, sending her blood

266

Maya DeLeina

pumping through her body. Steffan tried to hold the sheets that covered her body in place, but the force of her reflexes exposed her inch by inch. “Leave us!” Steffan screamed out, and Eilian and Rhys quickly exited the room. Anya’s body spasms slowed, and her eyes froze open. Steffan leaned in, waiting for the color inversion to take place. He closed his eyes, begging and pleading that the heart of the woman he had grown to love would maintain its purity in her vampire existence. He opened his eyes and watched the show. Anya’s eyes remain unchanged. The white retained its brilliance against her seductive brown eyes. Anya took a deep breath in and blinked. “Steffan?” “Anya, my love. You’re back! You had me so worried!” Tears of joy and relief streamed down Steffan’s face. He reached for Anya and cradled her close to his chest. “I thought I’d lost you.” He whispered into her ear. “I was so scared.” Anya was crying, gasping. “Wait! I remember! I remember you, Steffan!” Anya said, sitting up in the bed. Steffan released Anya and sat next to her. He began firing a series of questions in an effort to test her human retention. “Who is Anya?” “Me! I remember my name!” Anya exclaimed with a childlike innocence. “Where is Michelle?” “She’s resting, down the hall. She won’t wake till tomorrow evening. Chloe is with her father and he won’t drop her off until Sunday afternoon…” Anya stopped short in her explanation, her eyes widening in amazement of her recall. “Good, Anya! Your memory is so vivid!” Anya’s smile slowly faded, “My family, Steffan. They’re all dead.” Steffan shook his head as he focused on Anya’s thoughts. The blaring light was still overpowering, marring his ability to see the vignette of her family members and the tragic events that followed. “I was all alone,” Anya said, shaking her head. She turned to Steffan as she recalled his past with Arianell and his child. “You lost your family. You were all alone, too!” “Yes. But we are mates. We are each other’s family now.” Steffan held her hand and placed a delicate kiss on her flesh.

Veil of Seduction

267

“I’m a vampire,” Anya stated. “Yes.” “I died. I’m no longer human.” “Yes,” Steffan continued to confirm Anya’s statements. “What color did my eyes turn?” “White—just as I suspected.” “Now I will never age, never get sick…Live forever.” “Yes, that’s the plan, my love.” “What happened to me? My soul?” “It’s still with you. It will always be with you.” “My mind. It is still me in here, too?” “Anya, you are you. Mind and soul.” “But my body, it’s not me. It’s different.” “Of course.” Steffan waited for another statement of reality, a question of realism from Anya, but she remained quiet in her trance. “Tell me, what’s the first thing you want to do as a vampire?” asked Steffan. Anya turned to Steffan, her eyes glowing passionate red. “Make love to you with my vampire body.” **** She took pleasure in the sensation of the smooth river rocks under the balls of her feet. She tiptoed and bent over slightly, affording Steffan the perfect angle to penetrate her deeply from behind. The inconsistency of the rocks on the floor, their shapes, sizes and height variances, probed at her aches, like a trigger-point massage. He plunged himself slowly and deeply into her in a rhythmic dance. Warm water surged from the body sprays that circled the walls of the travertine shower. His hands glided up her back and settled in a tight grasp on her shoulders. Anya steadied herself and tested her flexibility and balance, arching her shoulders backward to Steffan’s chest. The curvature of her back pitched her chest outward, putting her wet breasts on full display, brisk in their movements from Steffan’s demand on her body. He kneaded

268

Maya DeLeina

her luscious mounds, driving more intently into her as Anya’s palmed the side of the glass shower door for stability. Steffan suddenly stopped, a dead silence between them. Anya, can you hear me? Steffan reached into her mind as he remained behind her, buried deep inside her heat. Oh my god, I hear you! Everything tingled as Steffan’s voice resonated through her mind and body. The feeling was inexpressible. Your voice is vibrating in my head, vibrating everywhere. I’ve never felt anything like this before. Is my voice clear? Crystal. Steffan slipped his cock from her warm pussy and nudged himself upward into her crevice, rubbing his cock up her backside, rimming her entry. My love, can you feel what I am longing for, see what I am craving? Anya’s body quivered. She could feel the depth of his desire burning through him. She saw every explicit detail of his fantasy. Whether there was a psychological or physiological reason behind it, she had never pursued such a taboo act with any partner before. She was, by her measurement, a good girl. She was timid really when it came to her sexuality. And this was certainly not an act a woman of her capacity would ever dream about doing. Until Steffan came into her life, that is. It was one of those things, either a woman hated it or loved it. All of Anya’s systems seemed to already register a pure fondness for the experience, although she and Steffan had yet to dive into that sexual realm. It was the naughtiness of it all, the ability to elevate their pleasure and deepen their connection to one another that held credence, rousing both of them to explore the depths of sexual variety and experimentation privately. “I’ve never done this either, cariad. And I too I have had many thoughts about doing this with you. I want to possess all of you, have all of you. I want us to become one in every possible way. ” Steffan whispered. Anya turned around. Steffan’s eyes were piercing, full of mad desire and an ache to be sated in the most intimate and delicate exchange with her.

Veil of Seduction

269

“I want us to be each other’s first time, share each other unconditionally, as we’ve never done with another,” Steffan spoke lovingly. Amidst the rivulets of water that set their course down his chin, meandering their way through his prominent stubble, he had a striking radiance around him. It sparked a yearning in her to give him every part of her heart and body, absorb his essence entirely. “I want that, too.” Steffan’s mouth covered Anya’s in a lustful, unrefined kiss. His hand engaged a lever that halted the pulsating rhythm of the body sprays and replaced it with a delicate sheet of water that cascaded down along the back wall of the shower and over the marble and travertine bench that sat below. Steffan released Anya’s mouth. He reached for the amber-colored bottle that sat deep in the crevice of the wall and positioned himself on the bench. He looked stately as he sat under the waterfall, its movement sensually framing his body. He poured the contents of the bottle over his chest, the water beading instantly as his skin glowed with an oily, iridescent sheen. He held his hardness, saturating every ridge and contour with the oil. He stroked himself in a confident display, beckoning Anya. Come to me, Steffan summoned in her mind. Anya straddled Steffan on the bench, tightening her grip on his shoulders as he pulled her against his chest. The oil exchange between their two bodies was stimulating. Steffan positioned the bottle at the top of her crevice, sending a stream of oil to collect deep in the cavern of her backside. He discarded the bottle feverishly, his fingers delving deep into her cleft, rimming the delicate flesh of her entry in a circular motion. The sensation was breathtaking. Her senses were coming alive as he transformed the purity of her landscape into his sexual playground. Anya moaned at the newness of the experience. Steffan positioned himself below her sensitive breach. She could feel him rigid and slick as he pressed against her access, longing to feel the sacred heat of a woman he had never felt before. “You’re in control, Anya. Take me in as you need.” Anya inched her way down on Steffan, their eyes spellbound on each other. His entry immediately engulfed Anya with an unspeakable sensation of pleasure and pain. She lifted, completely releasing him, and then inched her way back down on him again, this time, a little farther, a little deeper.

270

Maya DeLeina

It was unlike anything else she’d felt before. Steffan was deep inside her, in a part of her body that was unexplored. She could feel him everywhere he was and everywhere he was not, tipping the sensation in an unbalanced mix of undefined fulfillment. She lifted once again and then slid back down on his shaft, this time, swallowing Steffan completely. They released a deep groan as the sensation enraptured them beyond compare. Anya wrapped around him, snug and warm, and Steffan stretched and filled her to the limit as no man ever had before. They were one, exploring a realm of intimacy that neither had experienced. Their lovemaking was slow, methodic, and completely consuming. **** The evening’s thunderstorm transitioned into a light morning rain. Fog suspended in the thick air, varying in its state of a transparent mist to an utter denseness. Anya lay awake in bed, her head resting comfortably on Steffan’s chest. Her hand cupped against the rise of his pectoral muscle. She was mesmerized by the ghostlike fog that seemed to waltz past the floor-toceiling windows in time to Steffan’s rhythmic breathing. She closed her eyes and concentrated on her surroundings. Her vampiric body heightened her senses to levels of awareness and sensations she had never known. Then there was the matter of the blinding light. When she would engage her memory to recall her human past, the blinding light would ripple through her mind, blaring at points as if a force was intent on blocking out certain phases and details of her human recall. Something lingered there, behind the light, but no matter how much she willed control over it, her ability would not come to execution. Was this a special ability or a defect in her turning? She and Steffan had much to discuss. Steffan remained still next to her, deep in a restful slumber. She lifted her head to glance at her mate. She noted the sinful smile plastered on his face as he slept. She made her way into his mind to see what he was dreaming about. The man was relentless.

Veil of Seduction

271

Visions of them in the throes of passion on the candy-apple-red Ducati burned vividly in his mind. She shook her head and smiled. Choosing eternity with a man with his insatiable appetite was surely going to be interesting. “Morning, my love, my mate. How was your rest?” Steffan stirred slowly under Anya, drifting leisurely from his dream state. “Restful, but restless.” “How do you mean?” “When I can sleep, it’s a very deep and sound sleep. I didn’t toss and turn like I would typically do.” “When you can sleep?” Steffan questioned. “Our minds, they never turn off to each other. I can enter yours anytime I want. And since all you do is think about sex, it makes me very restless, wanting to act on your thoughts. Like that incident on the Ducati, for example.” Steffan laughed and ran his hand down Anya’s silky, black hair. “I’m sorry. Now that we’re mates, we’ll have to work together to adapt and manage our abilities.” “Is it too early to start with our lesson? I feel like I need to get a better handle on all this. I’m afraid of having sensory overload at any moment, you know?” “No, I understand. This is all new to me as well.” Steffan sat up in bed, propping the pillows behind his back against the headboard. Anya moved her pillow to lay lengthwise from his waist down to his legs and plopped her head down, looking up at Steffan as he continued. “You and I, well you already know we can communicate without words, but apparently, we don’t even have to be in the same room or within the same vicinity to communicate inwardly. We will have to test how far our bond stretches. It could be just mere inches or miles away.” “Well, what determines the strength of the bond?” “We don’t really know. For human-vampire mates, other than the claim ritual, there’s very little documented since each pairing is unique. It’s only been recently that I learned quite a lot about it from Rhys. Up until now, he was the only one in our family to claim a human.” Steffan shook his head as he remembered the claim. “It would do us all good to sit and talk. Rhys and Brynne, their transition to mates wasn’t a smooth one.”

272

Maya DeLeina

“What happened?” “Brynne was a diabetic. The insulin she was on altered her blood and tissue cells. Rhys knew Brynne casually, but because of her altered components from the insulin, he didn’t realize he actually had a mate connection to her. He thought their attraction was based purely on looks. Once he discovered their connection, he went through hell trying to convince her he was a vampire and she was his fated mate. ” “Why? Did she not believe him? Didn’t he show her what he could or couldn’t do?” “He had himself to blame for all of that,” Steffan remarked as he rolled his eyes. “Rhys was a member of Vampyre Noir. This woman in town was obsessed with vampires and started this ultraexclusive club here for other enthusiasts. She even made everyone refer to her as Madame Noir. Rhys heard about the club a couple years after moving here and joined, thinking it would be entertaining and educational. You know, hear what humans talk about, what they believed when it came to vampires. Madame Noir made potential members go through a profile evaluation to test their vampiric qualities before accepting them as members. Go figure, Rhys passed the test. If they only knew what they really had among them.” Steffan chuckled at the thought. “Anyway, Brynne ran the local vampire book club in town. One day, Madame Noir extended an invitation to Brynne to spend an evening with her and her noir clan since the two clubs had similar interests in vampires. Madame Noir selected Rhys to be Brynne’s escort for the evening.” “A vampire book club, I can see. But a vampire club? I had no idea there was actually a club like that in town!” “Oh yeah. Now, after taking Brynne to a club with vampire role-players, can you imagine what Rhys went through to convince her that vampires actually existed, not to mention trying to teach her about the mate match they had to one another.” Anya shook her head. “Yeah. I see what you mean. Well, they’re together now, so I guess he finally convinced her.” “Oh, of course they eventually made it through. And not a moment too soon as far as the family was concerned. He was driving us absolutely insane the entire time. When we all met Brynne after the claim, we thought we could breathe a sigh of relief, but really, the drama had just begun.”

Veil of Seduction

273

“Why? What happened?” “Some of the Blood Honey dealers in town found out that Brynne was a diabetic and that she had been turned. They took her from Rhys one night, while they were working at the club.” “She was kidnapped?” “Yeah. But we got her back unharmed, and we took care of all of the Blood Honey dealers out there.” Steffan paused and looked down. A look of distress overcame him. “Well, all except for one.” “One got away? How? You’re a vampire!” “And so was he,” Steffan whispered. “A vampire was involved? Someone from this family? Who?” “He was not from our family, and I really don’t want to spend any more breath on him than I already have.” “Okay,” Anya responded. She adjusted, sitting straight up in bed. “Can you at least tell me what the hell is Blood Honey?” Steffan eyes widened with excitement as Anya’s bare chest was displayed before him. He reached out to touch her, but she pulled back and covered herself with the sheet, fully intending to hear the answer to her question. “Blood Honey is pure liquid THC, where the solvent used for the cannabis extraction is vampire blood. Some of the metaphysical shops here deal in this. For those who can afford it, it’s the most sought after drug out there.” “Metaphysical shops? Does Michelle know about this Blood Honey?” “She did, once. One of the dealers came into her shop, trying to strike up a deal with her and got a little rough in the process when she wanted no part in it. Rhys took care of him and had to enthrall Michelle since the dealer revealed too much of our kind. Plus, Rhys didn’t want her to remember that experience. It was better for everyone just to enthrall her.” “But why target metaphysical shops to sell drugs? I don’t get it.” “Blood Honey is a thick, amber colored resin. It is sold by the vial. Dealers use the shops since they hide the vials in pieces of hollowed out amber. It basically camouflages the oil, and they can be sold right out in the open.”

274

Maya DeLeina

Anya was stunned. “I’ve helped Michelle run the shop and I’ve never heard of this! What is so great about Blood Honey? Is it all about getting high?” “It’s not just getting high. Consuming the Blood Honey is like drinking from the fountain of youth for humans. The Blood Honey releases a pleasurable mind and body experience, allowing the cell regeneration process to take place without pain or discomfort.” “Humans actually stop aging by using this?” Steffan shook his head. “It doesn’t stop aging altogether, but it does dramatically slow the aging process. Hollywood swears by it and pays top dollar for a single drop. So you can imagine with that kind of profit, there are dealers all over the world.” Anya shot her hands in the air. “Great, so I’m past the threat of rogues, but now I have to look out for dealers?” She cocked her head. “But why single Brynne out? Why not take Rhys? Why not you, the leader? Why not take anyone else in the family for that matter?” “Brynne’s blood is very different from ours. She was on insulin for most of her life. Insulin is manufactured by genetic engineering, forming and splicing together combinations of DNA sequences—DNA that does not exist naturally and would not normally occur together. The theory is that the blood of a vampire with this uncommon DNA strand could provide immeasurable abilities for a human. But again, our blood in the purest form is too potent for consumption and is not made for the human palate. Instead, when it is mixed with the cannabis, the taste is extracted and all that’s left is a high like no other with the chemical properties ready to take action in the human cells. Basically, Blood Honey made with Brynne’s blood would be like drinking from the fountain of youth while acquiring superman strengths all at one time in a very, very pleasurable experience.” “How many vampires are out there like Brynne?” “None that we know of. That’s why we had to destroy anyone who knew Brynne existed and no one but the immediate family knows about Brynne’s special blood.” “Except for the one vampire who got away, right?” Anya asked quietly, carefully bringing the subject back into the conversation. Steffan nodded but remained silent.

Veil of Seduction

275

Anya took in a deep breath. “Well, Brynne sounds fascinating. I can’t wait to meet her.” Steffan smiled and placed a kiss on Anya’s hand. “She’s excited about meeting you as well. In fact, the entire family is very anxious to meet you.” “So, if Rhys was the only one to claim a human mate in the family, does that mean the other fated mates were already vampires?” “Yes.” “And in all of your years, you never came across a vampire who was a potential match for you?” “I’ve had relationships, but none of them sparked a mate match. It’s only been you and will always remain you,” Steffan said as he brushed Anya’s cheek. “Don’t ask me why, but I’m so drawn to your veins right now. It’s making me dizzy,” Anya revealed, abruptly changing the subject that sparked a bit of jealousy in her once again. Steffan smiled. “It’s because your body is craving your first vampire kiss. Vampires have an acute craving to drink from their mate, a craving that goes beyond our need to feed from humans. It’s extremely decadent, ravishing, and deep—just like a kiss. That’s why they call it a vampire kiss.” “May I ask when are we going to try this?” “Soon, my love. Very soon,” Steffan stated. He took Anya’s hand in his, gently rubbing his thumb against her smooth skin. “Anya, there is something else you need to know. We’re supposed to be able to share in sensations now that we are mates. Like, if you eat something, I can taste it. If something touches you, I can feel it. This is one of the most powerful abilities for a vampire and can only be accomplished through mate claims.” “So, you’re saying you can feel what I feel in my body?” Anya asked seductively, one eyebrow arching. She removed the pillow from Steffan’s lap to straddle his waist. Steffan nodded, a devilish grin on his face. “And you can feel what I feel. Sex will be on a whole different level of sensation for us, and I want to try it with your fist vampire kiss so we can both experience each other’s taste.” “Well then. I’m so glad Michelle will need her rest all day.” Anya flashed a wicked smile at Steffan. “But in the shower, why didn’t we feel each other’s sensations?”

276

Maya DeLeina

“As the maker of the claim, I have to engage all of the connection threads for us. When we were in the shower, I started the process by engaging our basic communication thread. And while I was so tempted to do so, I didn’t want to overwhelm you with the sensation thread until I could fully explain what our abilities as mates are. Anya, with this sensation sharing that I’m about to engage, our bodies don’t even have to be physically together in order to feel each other.” “You mean—”Anya trailed off as Steffan picked up her thoughts processing. Steffan nodded. “It will be just like that day you were in my driveway and I was in the house, but we’ll be together in mind this time.” “I just can’t believe this. It’s all so intense!” Anya said, flushed with excitement. “We can break the threads between us temporarily when we need to. I mean, it’s a consuming ability for both of us, and if we need breathing room, privacy or just a break from the constant connection, we can do it. But we will both have to disengage. It’s not designed to be one-sided. In time, we will learn to adapt. If it will mean a better sleep tomorrow if you’re not overloaded with my thoughts, we can disengage temporarily.” Steffan smiled as he brushed Anya’s hair back from her face. “No. I don’t want to disengage. I like having you completely. It’s just overwhelming to learn all of this at once. I don’t know what to try first!” Steffan smiled in response. “We’ll try them all. But right now, I’m interested in knowing what unique abilities you’ve acquired with your turning.” “All right.” Anya smiled as she sat tall, still straddling Steffan. “But how do I know if it’s just plain old vampire ability or a special ability I have?” “Tell me what you feel or sense, and we’ll take it from there.” “And you know of all of the different vampire abilities out there?” “I’m sure none of us knows exactly everything that exists out there, but I’ve seen my share of vampires and read a great deal of documentation. When I first turned, learning all about different vampire abilities was a bit archaic. Back then, we had to resort to documenting things we saw in other vampires on our own or go through discarded diaries from vampires who had extinguished, if they bothered to document anything at all. But since the

Veil of Seduction

277

internet has come around, we can all access a bloodline report from various VFSN sites. Families around the world can file an entry to a public bloodline report if something is newly discovered and can be confirmed by a second party,” Steffan explained. “What is VFSN?” “Vampire-friendly social networking sites.” “We have our own sites?” “No. We utilize the same popular sites as everyone else. The VampireFriendly sites recognize our existence and allow us to download a private application platform and place a symbol on our profile page to signify our status. This reminds me, we’ll have to create your profile sometime today and update my relationship status as well.” “So what’s the symbol?” “It’s called the Eternity Eye. Basically, it’s all based around astrological symbols. It starts with the symbol for earth, a circle with a crosshair. Dead center is the image of a closed eye. At either side of the earth symbol are west- and east-facing crescent moons.” “What’s the significance of the symbol?” “From what I know, the symbol was created by a vampire in Greece centuries ago. He had it branded on his skin to signify what he was. Soon, vampires followed his lead, branding themselves with the symbol to reveal their identity to other vampires. Somewhere along the line, a witch caught a glimpse of the symbol on a known vampire and used it in black magic references early in its history. Now, you rarely see it used in texts as our kind has tried to erase any known images of it out there. When it’s broken down, it is really simple. Earth is used to signify our presence on the planet. The closed eye symbolizes our mind’s eye. And the crescent moons denote our evolution in spirit, from human to vampire.” “Do vampires still brand themselves with this?” Steffan turned around and lifted the hair from the back of his neck. There, etched in a deep-black tattoo, was the symbol. “When do you want to get yours?” he asked. “Soon!” The thought of a secret symbol excited Anya. “That’s my girl.” “And what about this tattoo,” Anya asked as she touched Steffan’s right shoulder. “What is this?”

278

Maya DeLeina

“This is my family’s…I mean, was my family’s coat of arms,” Steffan explained. “Your family before Ambrose Heights?” Steffan nodded, “Got it right before the war. There were stories of my ancestors displaying it on their shields in battle. I guess I thought it was fitting for what I was going to face.” Steffan paused and lightly chuckled, “Death. I was ready to face it. Instead, I became this.” Anya was silent as she rubbed Steffan’s shoulder where the tattoo lay. “So, let’s continue.” Steffan cleared his throat. “All vampires have heightened senses and increased strength, and we all possess the ability to manifest, place boundary, take flight, and enthrall humans. In some cases, these basic vampire abilities are heightened. Take Rhys for example, all vampires have strength. But with Rhys, this basic vampire strength is amplified, by like fifty times for him. This is why he was chosen as protector of Ambrose Heights.” “Times fifty? Wow.” “In other cases, inherited abilities are completely unique to our basic abilities.” “For example?” “Like in the case of manifestation, some vampires can cloak manifest, where they’re completely invisible in their surroundings. With enthralls, some vampires can enthrall both human and vampires. Then there are the unique abilities—shielding, detection, tracking, mood alterations, dreamscaping, telling, touch recognition, and telepathy without a mate connection to the host. In rare cases, kinesis and the ability to sense mate matches have been identified.” “What are telling and touch recognition?” “Telling abilities mean the vampire can elicit truth from either a human or vampire or both. They perform it through an enthrall. Touch recognition is where a vampire can touch a human, living or deceased, to understand their character and see certain events that happened in their life. In very rare cases, a vampire can do this with other vampires as well.” “So my senses, they all seem to be heightened, but that’s normal right?” Anya asked. “Yes.”

Veil of Seduction

279

Anya squinted as she spoke. “Hmmm. Well, there is this new energy I’ve felt since turning.” “Let’s see what it does,” Steffan said as he fixed his gaze intently on Anya. Anya concentrated, staring at the rose petals that lay on the bed. Slowly, the petals lifted one by one until they swirled upward like a funnel cloud. Steffan flattened his back on the headboard, shifting his position under Anya. “Well, that is certainly a rare ability. You have kinesis on objects!” Steffan examined Anya as the petals dropped back down to the bed. “Anya, whatever you’re doing to move that, see if you can do it to me. Concentrate on my arm. Move it with the same energy thread you used on the petals.” Anya nodded enthusiastically. “All right.” Anya concentrated on Steffan’s arms and released her energy threads. “Stop!” Steffan screamed. His body flinched and his face was etched in a look of pain. “What? What is it?” Anya exclaimed. “My arm started burning.” Steffan concentrated in deep thought. “I burned. I had a reaction from your kinesis, which means you do have some kind of control over it. Let’s try this. I’ll try to move my arm, and you try to hold it down this time.” Anya repositioned herself back on the bed, next to Steffan’s side. Steffan arms sprawled out on the bed. He lifted both arms with the intent to guide them behind his head, but only his left arm moved. His right arm remained on the bed, pinned in place. “That’s it! You can’t make my body move like the inanimate objects. On living tissue, you can only inhibit movement.” “I wonder if I can control objects already in motion?” Anya’s thought wandered. “We’ll test that. What other energy do you feel, my love?” “There is this one,” Anya said as she concentrated to Steffan. “Sit still. I’m not entirely sure what this is exactly going to do.” “Holy shit!” Steffan gasped. He shot up from the bed and ran to the mirror to examine himself. His expression was locked in pure disbelief. Anya walked up behind, gazing at Steffan’s reflection in the mirror. “So, I’m guessing this is not a normal ability for a vampire?”

280

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Twenty-One “Rise and shine,” Anya whispered. She sat at the edge of the bed next to Michelle, rubbing her arm gently. “What? What time is it?” Michelle mumbled as she wiped the sleep from her eyes, trying to focus on Anya. “It’s six in the evening. I let you sleep. You needed it.” “Six in the evening? How long did I sleep?” “A little over ten hours.” Anya cringed. It was actually more like twenty-one hours, but what was the harm in a little white lie? “Anya, how drunk was I?” “You remember that home improvement show we were watching where they made a chandelier using empty wine bottles? Let’s just say I could’ve started the project with the amount of wine you downed last night.” Michelle sat up in bed, resting her back against the headboard. “But, I feel good. No headache. No…” Michelle stopped midsentence and looked intently at Anya. “Michelle?” “Anya? Are you? Did he do it?” Anya nodded. Tears started to well in Michelle’s eyes. “What’s wrong?” “If you are here talking to me and you are what you are, then that means you remembered me!” “Of course I did! Steffan didn’t have to help me remember anything. You popped right up, clear as a bell. I love you, Michelle. You’ve always been in my heart.” “I love you too, Anya,” Michelle said quietly. A flood of tears started to roll down Michelle’s cheeks as she fought to control her emotional display. “Michelle, I thought you were all right with this?”

Veil of Seduction

281

“I am,” Michelle said, sniffling, “I just realized I’m going to be an old hag one day and you’ll still look beautiful as ever! I mean, we’ve always gone through things together. How can you even relate when I start talking about my aches and pains, my teeth falling out or how my boobs are hitting my knees when I walk? You can’t. You will forever be thirty-five years old! How am I going to explain to Chloe that Aunt Anya will look like mommy’s daughter one day?” Anya leaned in and hugged Michelle. “I know. We’ll work through this. I keep thinking about the day I will have to say good-bye to you.” Anya released her hold on Michelle and looked her in the eye. “You won’t change your mind?” “I can’t,” Michelle said quietly. The women sat quietly, not knowing what quite to say. “Adam called about ten minutes ago. He and Chloe just got home,” Anya said, breaking the gut-wrenching silence between them. She got off the bed and walked over to the dresser to retrieve the cell phone. “She’s dying to tell you about her day. I said you were in the shower. They’re going to call back in a half hour.” Anya handed the cell phone to Michelle. Michelle chuckled as she looked at the phone. “I have no doubt that Adam gave his daughter everything she asked for. That man spoils her rotten.” Michelle’s gaze fell on Anya and she caught a full glimpse of Anya’s evening gown. “Oh my god! You look absolutely beautiful!” The gown had an understated elegance. It was a simple, strapless, satin gown, no embellishments to the material, allowing the striking-red color to take center stage. The dress wrapped to a pleat, and a shirred bodice sat above the A-line cut. Anya’s hair was done in a half-up-and-down style, curled at the ends. Little crystal accents shined in her black strands. “Thank you. I’m being introduced to the entire family tonight.” “How many are we talking?” “Counting me? Seventy-five.” “That many vamps reside in Manitou? I was thinking it was more like twenty-five or something. My god, you’ll have to tell me if there are people we know.”

282

Maya DeLeina

“Evening, Michelle, how are you feeling?” Steffan said as he made his way through the room. He stood there in a sleek, black tuxedo. His crisp, white shirt and the gray, satin euro tie and vest set off his sparkling eyes. Michelle stood with dreamy eyes locked on Steffan. “I–I’m feeling great. Boy, you both are incredibly breathtaking. What time is Anya’s presentation to the family and is it here?” “It will be here, at midnight. I have workers downstairs preparing everything.” “Good, I have time to slip away,” Michelle said as she got up and started making the bed. “Michelle, you don’t have to do that, and you don’t have to rush. You have plenty of time. Come, have dinner with us. Anya and I made something special for the three of us to mark this special evening.” Steffan paused for a moment, and Anya picked right up where he left off. “We just took Consumption so we could celebrate with food and champagne for our night. Let’s go downstairs. You can call Chloe as well.” **** Anya stood in front of the mirror doing a last-minute assessment. As if detecting something, her body tingled. “Steffan, why are you just standing out there?” Steffan smiled and entered the room. He walked up slowly behind her and wrapped his arms tightly around her waist. “It’s time, love.” Anya nodded. “Nervous, huh?” Steffan stated. “Yes.” Anya fixed her eyes on Steffan and entered his mind. “And it seems like you are as well.” “Perfect read, Anya. You know, I am really surprised how effortlessly you employ your mate abilities. You really had no trouble with it at all.” “I guess there’s nothing we won’t know about each other.” Steffan chuckled. “I am also happy to report that it appears you have detection skills. You can feel the presence of vampires who shield.” “I can?” “Yes. I was shielding when you detected me outside in the hall.”

Veil of Seduction

283

“What about the sensation sharing this afternoon, huh?” Anya spoke to Steffan’s reflection in the mirror. “I still feel weak in the knees. Now that was a little harder for me to do, but we’re definitely trying that again as soon as this shindig is over.” “That was the greatest experience of my life—so far,” Steffan said as he winked at Anya. “We have to work on staggering each other’s climaxes, though. I nearly passed out, feeling mine and yours at the same time. But practice makes perfect, right?” “Exactly.” Anya chuckled. “I see your hair color is back.” Steffan nervously ran his fingers through his hair. “Yeah. I was worried that you would have to figure out how employ your biokineses to change it back to black. The blonde color did not suit me very well.” “I still thought you were handsome.” “Thank you, my love. Anya, I have something for you,” Steffan said as he reached into his pocket and encircled his hands in front of Anya’s neck. “It’s just like my ring! It’s beautiful,” Anya said, admiring Steffan’s gift. The elegant choker was the finishing touch to her outfit. It had an antique quality, like her ring, that she loved. The endless knot symbol was intricately carved in silver and accented with marcasite and diamonds. It sat attached to clear nylon, appearing to float delicately in the dip of her neck. “My love, there’s something else we haven’t discussed. Something I would like to confirm before your introduction.” “What is it, Steffan?” “Have you given much thought to your name? The family’s tradition is to have a name bestowed, as a rite of passage for the transformation to a vampire existence. But I would love nothing more than for you to retain your name. I can’t see you as anything but Anya.” “I would love to keep my name. It’s me. And if you can’t see me as anything but Anya, I would never, in a million years, change it.” “Tell me, do you know the meaning of your name?” Steffan asked. “Not really. It just wasn’t something I ever thought about.” Steffan smiled. “It means infinite grace and beauty. And I can’t seem to find any other name you could take that would be more fitting.” Anya smiled. “Well my infinitely graceful and beautiful mate, they’re waiting for us. Shall we?” Steffan held out his elbow in an old-world gesture.

284

Maya DeLeina

Anya melted. Steffan’s antiquated movement, accent, sophistication, stunning looks, and pure love were all hers. He was her mate. Anya slowly entwined her hand to mold into his shape and they exited their bedroom. They made their way to the top of the grand staircase to gasps and whispers of the crowd gathered below. They stood at the top, allowing everyone to take in their fill of their newly mated leader and the new addition to the family. The room was overflowing with faces, some new and some recognizable. Anya was overcome with shock as she processed the faces she knew. Never in a million years would she have guessed they were vampires. Michelle would be floored with her report. Steffan gestured for the crowd to quiet. His voice carried with a marked sense of authority. “Thank you all for coming this evening. As many of you know, I have waited almost an entire century for this very moment. I had all but given up hope of finding my mate until that fateful evening, nine months ago. The indescribable connection presented itself, and I set out on my quest to find my mate. Tonight, I have the distinct pleasure of presenting to you, the newest member of our family and my cherished mate, Anya Matthews.” The room was immediately filled with the sound of joyous applause. Steffan turned to Anya and gave her a kiss, like a couple would share after being pronounced man and wife in a wedding ceremony. **** Madeline stood still in the crowd, examining Steffan’s kiss. A burning, stabbing pain filled her chest as the applause and cheers grew stronger. She ripped her eyes from their embrace and searched the crowd intently. Ryan stood there, motionless among the sea of people. Their eyes locked. Madeline nodded once with a recognizable acknowledgement to Ryan’s inward pain. It was time.

Veil of Seduction

285 ****

Ryan clapped with an obsessive vigor. The vampires around him dispersed, examining the odd behavior he displayed. The pronounced movements caught Steffan’s eye, and he fixated on Ryan. “Yeah, Steffan. You got her. Yeah, everyone hail Steffan. He is the king. He is the man!” Ryan continued clapping. His voice rose above the murmurs of the crowed. The room suddenly came to a hush and all eyes focused on Ryan. Rhys and Eilian quickly made their way to him. “What the fuck are you doing?” Rhys said. “Why are you all hyped up? Knock the shit off, I’m warning you!” “What the fuck am I doing?” Ryan stopped clapping and paused to look at the two men. Rhys and Eilian looked to Steffan as if waiting for guidance on how to appropriately deal with the situation. Rhys’s eyes were exploding in anger while Eilian’s were set in a state of confusion. “Go figure. I should’ve known you both would come running to Steffan’s defense. Is he telling you to take care of me like he did when he first turned me?” Steffan stood motionless at the top of the stairs, stunned by Ryan’s outburst. Eilian and Rhys grabbed Ryan at each arm. “You talkin’ to me?” Rhys growled, pulling him close. “That’s enough, Ryan. You’re interrupting the entire ceremony for Steffan and Anya,” Eilian said with marked anger. **** Madeline stepped back further behind the crowd. She aligned herself with the doorway enabling a clean getaway when things started going bad. There was no doubt that they were going to get really ugly, really fast. And although she moved a little further from the crowd, she still had an advantageous view of the scene unfolding.

286

Maya DeLeina

She stood shaking with anticipation, basking in the enjoyment of what was about to happen. Pride suddenly washed over her. She was going to be triumphant in her quest. All of the planning, lies, deceptions, and painstaking task of finding the perfect puppet were complete. She laid the foundation to allow Ryan to set the wheels in motion. Steffan’s death was now inevitable. Yet, for a brief moment, sorrow filled her heart. The thought of the only man she loved being extinguished in the Nemesis pained her. **** “That voice…” Anya released from Steffan’s embrace and held her head as she tried to recall her mind. White noise echoed thunderously. The blaring lights made her feel light-headed. Steffan looked at Anya. The strain on her face was etched in his. Ryan continued his rant below. “Anya? Are you recalling something?” Steffan followed her gaze that fell on Ryan. “Do you recall him? Do you recall your sister Anise?” “I’m not sure. There’s…something.” Anya closed her eyes tightly and rubbed her temples. “Anya. That is Ryan. He was Anise’s fiancé. He is one of us now. I didn’t want you to know until after the claim. And I certainly didn’t want you to find out quite like this. I don’t know what’s wrong with him.” Anya remained quiet, with no emotional reaction to what he’d just revealed to her. She felt a numbing sensation, as if Steffan was trying to enter her mind. But something felt different. The white noise and blaring lights were stronger than ever before. They acted like guard dogs— predatory, protective, and aggressive. And they forced Steffan out. Suddenly, Anya fell to her knees. “Anya! What’s wrong?” Steffan yelled. “Steffan, can you repeat to everyone in the family how, in fact, you came to find Anya? Let’s all hear you describe this connection you had,” Ryan yelled as Eilian and Rhys picked him up, attempting to escort him from the room.

Veil of Seduction

287

“Ryan, something is happening to Anya here. I can’t deal with you right now! Eilian, help me!” Steffan screamed in anger. Steffan helped Anya off the ground. She was still light-headed and crouched low to the ground. “Go help Steffan. I got him,” Rhys said to Eilian. Eilian left abruptly to tend to Anya, leaving Ryan in the hands of Rhys. “Of course something’s happening to her! She’s learning all about your deceit! You didn’t think she could recall me, did you?” Ryan screamed in response. Rhys released Ryan. “What the fuck?” Whispers from the family started to vibrate through the room. Steffan stood up, never releasing his lock on Ryan’s eyes. Eilian continued to console and examine Anya. “What did you just say?” Steffan asked in a menacing tone. “You heard what I said!” Ryan shot back. He walked slowly to the staircase as the crowd scattered, carving a path for him. “You’re a fucking liar! A thief! She is mine! You broke the laws of our family!” The crowd’s whispers turned to gasps. “What is he talking about Steffan?” a man’s voice echoed through the room. “What did you do, Steffan?” a woman’s voice bounced off of the previous question. “I have no clue!” Steffan’s voice boomed through the room as he stood tall at the top of the stairs. “Ryan, how did I lie? How am I a thief?” He looked back at Anya who remained embraced by Eilian. Then it dawned on him. “Wait. Are you mistaking Anya for Anise? Ryan, I’m sorry you lost Anise. I had no idea that she had passed away. I turned you in hopes of reuniting you with her. I’m sorry for your pain. Whatever you’re recalling and feeling, it’s probably because Anya and Anise were identical twins. But, this is Anya…not Anise.” “Anise? You still sticking to this fucking story? You know Anya is my only concern,” Ryan yelled, his eyes and voice full of anger. “What is the meaning of all of this, Steffan?” another man’s voice pierced through the crowd as the whispers grew louder.

288

Maya DeLeina

“My god, Steffan, have you mate abducted?” a boisterous voice pierced through the murmurs of the crowd. “Everyone, please! I’m trying to figure it out what is going on myself. Don’t be alarmed.” Steffan motioned for the crowd to calm and then focused back on Ryan. “Ryan, I need to get Anya to our bedroom to lie down and rest. Come with me so we can talk privately and I can understand what the issue is here. I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Ryan’s voice echoed with anger. “My wife is not going anywhere near your bedroom ever again.” Exasperated voices rose in the room. “Excuse me?” Steffan responded. Anya looked up at Steffan. His eyes transformed into crimson globes. “Anya?” Eilian said with marked concern. “Steffan, something is happening!” **** Anya’s body shook though she remained crouched over. Inwardly, she was screaming wildly. Something was behind the light and noise. She could feel it. Out of frustration, she grabbed at the light in her mind as if clearing years of cobwebs from an old cellar. Slowly, the light diffused and the white noise faded. Without warning, Ryan’s image broke through the haziness and centered in her mind. The flood of images, their wedding, her love for Ryan, their happiness, played in her mind. The scenes quickly turned dark, as Ryan’s level of deception flashed before her, things she didn’t even know about, the other women, schemes he devised to lie and cheat his way through life, the draining of their bank accounts to leave her alone and destitute, and his lovemaking with Anise in their bed. A shrill of pain flowed through her body as if engulfed in flames. A low growl resonated from her chest as her nails lengthened and curled into a clawlike form. She lifted her head and zeroed in on Ryan. Her eyes burned. The bones in her face twisted under her skin. She felt her face contort with each passing second. She clenched her teeth, raising her upper lip to display the long daggered fangs that descended from her

Veil of Seduction

289

gums. The membrane tore viciously, sending rivers of thick blood to drip down her protruding fangs. “Anya?” Steffan shook as he looked at Anya. “Eilian! What is happening to her?” Eilian shook his head in disbelief at her transformation. All at once Anya leapt from her position and soared through the air, hurling her body in Ryan’s direction. She landed on Ryan where he stood, wrapping her legs tightly around his chest. Ryan gasped. Anya steadied herself with one hand on Ryan’s shoulder as she pulled back the other, fully extending her claws. Steffan, Rhys, and Eilian quickly took to the air to restrain Anya. Just as her hand came down with intention to slash Ryan in two, Steffan grabbed her by the waist, and Rhys and Eilian pulled Ryan from her clutches. Her claws managed to still make a deep gash in Ryan’s neck, sending his thick, black blood to erupt from the wound. “Everyone…leave. Leave now!” Steffan screamed as he held Anya. She was feral, her body viciously thrashing about as she screamed wildly. She could feel the power in his body, as if using every bit of strength just to hold her back. But, it was like he didn’t even exist at the moment. All she wanted was to get at Ryan. “Get him out of here! I don’t want him anywhere near Anya!” Eilian and Rhys held Ryan down on the ground, his blood still spewing forcefully. “We have to control the bleeding first, Steffan. Hang on. His repair mechanisms aren’t employing. We’ll need to try a secretion repair,” Eilian said. “Goddamnit, spit in my hands! I need your saliva to seal the wound. You can’t reach it. You’re losing too much blood!” Rhys yelled as Ryan hurried to pool his saliva in Rhys’s hands. Rhys quickly smothered the warm liquid across the gaping wound, sealing it instantly. The three men were covered in black blood as they carried Ryan off to the underground tunnel entrance in the dining room. The house was chaotic. Vampires were everywhere. Some soared through the air to escape up through the Juliet balcony, others ran, pushing

290

Maya DeLeina

each other through the front door while others remained trapped near the scene, slipping and sliding on the black blood that covered the marble floor. Madeline was at the home’s threshold, amidst the throng of alarmed guests making their way to the door. She turned around and looked at Anya and Steffan. She flashed them a devious smile before floating through the door with the sea of people. A group of vampires, stately and noble in their presence, made their way calmly through the frenzied mass and stood before Steffan. A man from the group spoke solidly, “We will need to know what’s going on and pass judgment accordingly. Your mate just attacked another, and you are being accused of mate abduction. Both of these offenses are a breach of our creed and laws. As of this moment, you are released from your position on the authority board along with Eilian. He is considered too close to the issue at hand.” Steffan nodded in response. “I understand. Let me handle this situation, and I will call for a meeting. I, too, would like to get to the bottom of all of this.” Steffan was calm. He continued to hold on tightly to Anya, although she had calmed significantly since Ryan exited the room. “I’m sorry, Steffan! I recalled him! I recalled everything! I broke through the light and the noise and there he was there. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I ruined everything,” Anya cried frantically. Steffan consoled Anya. “Shh, Anya. My love, it’s all right. You didn’t ruin a thing. We’ll get this all figured out.” “Is she all right?” Eilian was winded as he returned to Steffan and Anya’s side. “I’m just confused about everything. I don’t know where all that anger came from. I didn’t even feel like myself,” Anya said as she clutched Steffan tightly. “That was an instinctive predatory and defensive reaction we have in us. We can tell the governing authority that it was just a reaction you hadn’t learned to control yet. Steffan and I are both on the board, so we can make a case for you. Although, they may want to exclude you from the proceedings,” Eilian said as he looked at Steffan. “They have already excluded both of us, Eilian,” Steffan responded coldly.

Veil of Seduction

291

“How is she?” Rhys raced back to Steffan and Anya’s side. “Better,” Steffan said. “Who’s watching over Ryan?” “Anya did quite a number on him. He’s a hot mess. He is resting right now. Aeron and Haydn volunteered to watch him and help him recover. Guys, I need to know what is going on right now. Ryan told me some shit that’s not sitting well inside me.” “Let’s go upstairs. I want Anya to lie down. I can explain everything.”

292

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Twenty-Two Anya lay on the leather sofa in the fetal position. Her head rested on a pillow in Steffan’s lap. He gently smoothed back her hair to calm her. “He’s claiming that he was married to Anya and that you took her from him. He said you two fabricated the entire story of him being with Anise instead so you could focus on claiming Anya for yourself,” Rhys said, speaking to both Steffan and Eilian. Rhys sat in the leather club chair directly across from Eilian. “What? I’m the one who decided to change him in the first place because I wanted him to reunite with whomever he was talking about that night. And this is what I get in return? Look, he never recalled any woman once he was turned. I tried for days to coax it out of him but still nothing. After Eilian told me about Ryan and Anise, I went to M.J. to confirm that was the true story. Then and only then did I start looking for Anya. I didn’t fabricate anything, and I for damn sure didn’t take anything from him!” “Rhys, Steffan, and I got the same story from M.J. We fabricated nothing. I don’t know what’s going on here, but Ryan is obviously doing this for some kind of attention or something.” “Not exactly,” Anya said softly. The men looked intently at Anya as she sat up on the sofa. Their eyes traveled to Steffan’s in unison. “What was it of Ryan’s that you touched? You never told me what the object was that made you feel our connection,” Anya said. “It was a stone he was clutching just after the accident. Red jasper, I believe,” Steffan responded. “And you turned Ryan because of an accident?” Steffan nodded as he told Anya of the ordeal. “He was driving up to the house—the house you inherited from your sister. It was the night of the first snowstorm last year. I don’t know what caused the accident, but the

Veil of Seduction

293

Mercedes fell from a cliff on the mountain pass. That is when I found him. He was dying of his injuries, and he told me he couldn’t live without her. I had no clue who her was at the time, but I didn’t have the heart to take him permanently from his true love. I thought I was giving him something that I never had a chance for myself. Anya, this is the only reason why I turned him.” Anya wept. “I gave him that stone that very morning. It was a gift…for my husband.” “Anya, no! You are Ryan’s wife?” Steffan screamed, clutching Anya by the shoulders. “Fuck man! How did this never get discussed during your claim? Steffan, you’re in a real bad place. This is Ryan’s mate you just claimed,” Rhys said. The shakiness in his voice frightened Anya. “You’re married? All this time, you were a married woman?” Steffan stood from the sofa and looked at Anya. His eyes began to well, his voice trembling full of hurt and distress. “No, I was married to him. I was granted a divorce before I even met you, Steffan. Ryan left me. He left me for my sister! He took all of our money and left me with nothing.” “Why did you lie? You made me believe that your husband died!” “It wasn’t a lie. My first husband, Ravi, died of a brain aneurysm. I just skipped over Ryan. I couldn’t tell you that the man before you left me for someone else. He left me for my twin sister of all things! I was in love with you. I wasn’t sure how you were going to react. How could I have told you that?” Anya wept hysterically. Steffan embraced Anya and held her close to his chest. “My god, Anya, do you honestly think that would’ve mattered to me?” Steffan kissed her head. “Calm down, love, it will be all right. Everything will be all right.” “Steffan, it’s not all right. She is in fact Ryan’s wife. She was off-limits to the claim according to our laws,” Rhys said in a panicked voice. “But I divorced him! I was no longer his wife. Is no one considering my feeling and wishes in all of this? I’m not an object of ownership to anyone!” Anya said in protest. “Divorce doesn’t exist for vampires. The council won’t give two shits about that! The fact is Steffan claimed another vampire’s human mate. That

294

Maya DeLeina

is against our laws. He didn’t follow his own rules!” Rhys said coldly to Anya. “Wait a damn minute, Rhys, I did follow my own governing rules for the family, and you’re forgetting a couple of things here that the law doesn’t account for. Ryan never recalled Anya. Nothing in the law accounts for this. I mean, we never considered it. If they were true mates, there’s no reason why he couldn’t recall her. I did the right thing and went to M.J. to confirm the background on him since he couldn’t remember.” Eilian jumped to Steffan’s defense. “And the other point here is that Ryan broke their emotional and physical bond before he even became a vampire. Anya ended any of the remaining legal binding with the divorce. We may not believe in divorce, but it does exist in the human world. Humans don’t have the ability to identify mate connections within each other, so they go off of judgment. Divorce for them is like a means to erase a wrong decision, as if it never happened. The council will have to take divorce into consideration in this case.” “Rhys, please, you were human once.” Anya pleaded. She didn’t know where Rhys fit in with the hierarchy of the family, but there was no doubt that he was a formidable presence. He stood as tall as Steffan and Eilian, but his build was much more defined, more demanding, and completely captivating. She couldn’t help but notice he had a way with his eyes as well, pivoting from an object of fear to a romantic trance. For her, his eyes were something to get lost in, mesmerizing against his jet-black hair and thick eyebrows that framed his photogenic face. Rhys was downright gorgeous. Then there was Eilian, equally as handsome with his light-brown hair and green eyes, but with an air of intellectual sexiness surrounding him. In fact, running through the images of all the men of the Ambrose Heights family was like flipping through the most delicious calendar she had ever laid eyes on. Of course, Steffan would be the month of June, dead center of the calendar, demanding of a centerfold, capturing all of him. For her, Steffan still outshined them all. Rhys kneeled down before Anya, softening his speech, his hands gently caressing hers. “Anya, I’m sorry if I’m scaring you. But you must understand. Rules and laws are very important to me. When Steffan found me in Nepal, he

Veil of Seduction

295

planned on destroying me. I wasn’t trying to hurt Steffan at all, he and his brotherhood just happened upon my territory. Truth is, they were exactly what I was looking for. I was turned long before Steffan. I lived like a rogue because that was the way of the world for vampires back then. After some time, I longed to be human again. I wanted to be part of life, part of a society again. I didn’t want to live in solitude, lurking in shadows like a monster. I heard about the new breed of vampires that was coming about. They were taking up brotherhoods, searching for their mates to start families and lairs. I had never come across any of them in all of my years, until I saw Steffan and his brothers in 1936. Anyway, Steffan was able to hear me out, take me in, and spare my life. Our creeds, our laws are so important to me because it’s what separates us from being rogues—what we were bred to be. I just hope that Eilian is right and we can convince the council.” “Rhys. I had no clue that you were once a rogue! I would’ve never guessed it. Are you not on the governing council as well, to help us?” Anya asked in desperation. “No. They won’t allow vamps that were once rogue to pass judgments,” Rhys said softly. Swiftly, he changed the subject and paced the room. “You know, I still don’t get it. If Anise was fooling around with Ryan, why was the house in her name, and why did she leave it to you? I don’t understand.” “Actually, I was beneficiary to everything Anise owned. After she passed away, I was going through all of the paperwork that was given to me and I realized Ryan was slowly funneling our money to Anise. I think he was planning on hiding all of his assets so he would show nothing when he would file for divorce. I don’t think he realized she had a will naming me a beneficiary to her estate.” Anya suddenly gasped. “Does he even know that someone torched her in a well?” The three men shot glances back and forth at each other. “Anya? What are you talking about? Anise died in a car accident,” Steffan said with a look of confusion. “No. The detectives told me they found her burned in an abandoned well on a cattle ranch.” “Detectives? What detectives, exactly?” probed Steffan. “Well, one detective. Doyle was her name. The other was Sergeant…” “Stemper?” Steffan responded, breaking Anya in midsentence. “Yeah, that’s right!”

296

Maya DeLeina

“And when did you meet them?” “A couple weeks after Ryan left. She called me at home. I had to come down to the station. She questioned me about Ryan, Anise, everything.” Steffan took a deep breath and ran his fingers angrily through his hair. “Fuck! She knew! She knew all the time, Eilian! And she has mate-sensing abilities. I’d already touched the stone and started the connection with Anya by that time. She knew that Anya and I were a match. Gwrach!” “Who is she? What are you talking about?” Anya screamed, looking for answers. “M.J.!” Eilian said feverishly. “I don’t know who M.J. is that you guys keep talking about! I’m talking about Detective Doyle, Madeline Doyle.” “M.J. is Madeleine-Jane Doyle!” Steffan explained. “Oh, my god!” Anya exclaimed. “She told me her team was off the case and the humans took it over. But from what Anya is saying, it looks like she and Alex were handling the case. This means Anise was one of us!” Eilian concluded. Anya shook her head at everything that was slowly unraveling. “She was a vampire? It all makes sense now! I could never understand why someone would burn her. It was exposure to the sun that did it. So if she was one of us, how come you didn’t know who she was?” Steffan adjusted on the chaise to face Anya. “When did you last see Anise, when you could for sure say she was human?” “Probably over a year ago. That’s when we kicked her out of our home and after that, I never heard from her again. I didn’t even know she was still here in town.” “But we would’ve known if someone in the family had turned her,” Eilian said. “Think about it. Who disappeared around the same time?” Steffan probed. “Dominic,” Rhys said coldly. He remained standing, crouched over, his forearms resting on the back of the leather club chair. Steffan shook his head and sat next to Anya. “Shit. Something inside of me told me not to entrust M.J. with this big of a responsibility, regardless of her telling abilities.”

Veil of Seduction

297

“But we had Alex in there with her. He would’ve sensed something right away,” Rhys said. “I know. We will have to find him.” “What are telling abilities?” Anya asked Steffan. “She has the ability to entice the truth out of vampires and humans. That is why we selected her as one of our primary contacts in the law enforcement sector.” “Steffan, does Anya know about M.J.?” Eilian asked softly as he motioned in her direction. “Not exactly,” Steffan answered with regret. “What is it, Steffan?” Steffan placed his hand on Anya’s lap. “You remember when I told you I had relationships with other vampires but never a mate connection?” “Yes.” “Well, I had a brief relationship with M.J., Madeleine. When I broke it off, she went ballistic at first. I hurt her deeply. No one but Alex and us here in this room knows about this relationship. I was intrigued with her matesensing abilities. I was desperate to find my mate, and I was using her just to see if I could harness her power.” “Why was she entrusted with so much power in this family if you said she went ballistic when you broke it off?” Anya said with tinge of jealousy in her voice. “I thought she got over it. It was never an issue in the past. And I guess a part of me felt bad for using her. I couldn’t take away her position in the family on top of that.” Anya ran her fingers through her hair. “Is she on the governing council?” “No. But…” Steffan trailed off. “But what?” Anya asked. “Eilian, you will need to retrieve all of the Submission injections from the Nemesis and hide them. Just in case. She’s the only one with access other than us,” Steffan said, his voice escalating, his breath racing. “Rhys, we need to find Alex and present this to the council. Alex can back up our theory.” ****

298

Maya DeLeina

Secluded in the comfort of their bed, Anya and Steffan made love. “He cannot have you, Anya. You are my mate.” Steffan fisted Anya’s hair in his hands as held her eyes captive to his. He thrust himself inside her with a passionate force. “Steffan, I don’t want him. My heart and my body belong to only you.” “Anya, I love you!” Steffan pumped fast, moaning louder with every movement. He exploded deep inside her, claiming her repeatedly as his. “I love you, Steffan. I will always love you,” Anya whispered, clutching Steffan as he collapsed on top of her. Steffan lifted from her body. “Anya, you must stay near me for the next few days until this gets sorted out with the council. I don’t know what he’s thinking, and I’m not quite sure what he’s capable of at this moment. I don’t want anything to happen to you.” “I’m not leaving your side.” Steffan repositioned himself on the bed, lying down on his stomach. He reached for the pillow and tucked it under his head. He tapped the other end of the pillow for Anya to join him. She sank down on the bed and gently rested her head next to Steffan. She lay on her stomach, lost in Steffan’s gaze. Anya, am I a better lover than Ryan? Steffan asked her inwardly. How could you even ask that, Steffan? You’re in bed with me. Do you not see and hear what you do to me? “Sorry. I never cared to know about your past lovers, it didn’t matter to me. But with Ryan, for some reason, I feel jealously and paranoia,” Steffan admitted. “Ryan can’t hold a candle to you, Steffan.” “Thank you, love.” A deep smiled etched Steffan’s face. “Think about it. You should have already seen how Ryan is. He’s very self-centered. Imagine having sex with someone of that mentality. I mean, it is a very one-sided deal, if you get what I am saying.” “I get it. But I hope you don’t mind me asking you this. If you knew how he was, why did you marry him?” “I keep asking myself that. I think I lost myself, my self-esteem, my self-worth after losing my parents and Ravi. I was so lonely, so desperate to

Veil of Seduction

299

feel loved and a part of someone’s life again. Then there was the constant pressure of being compared to Anise. Anise was always the prettier one, the party girl, the life of the party, the outgoing one. I was the one who was reserved, just focusing on my music. When Ryan came along, I was taken with his obvious looks, and he showered me with attention. But most of all, he got me because he was the first man who didn’t pay much attention to Anise. That turned out great, huh?” Steffan shook his head in response. “Then, he sealed the deal.” “How?” “He had lost his parents in a disaster as well, an airplane crash. He was still in high school when it happened. I don’t know, once I found about that, there was this flood of emotion that connected us. Well, connected me, for sure.” “What about the marriage. How was everything?” “I liked the feeling of belonging that he gave me, and in the beginning, it was great, but I think it was just because it was still new. It all eventually faded, but I honestly thought that was just one of those things with marriage. I never knew that he had so many affairs. It just never crossed my mind that he would be capable of doing that.” “The accident that night, who do you think he was referring to? He seemed so genuine and heartfelt at the time.” “Honestly, it was Anise. But not for the reason you’re thinking. He hid all the money under Anise’s name so I wouldn’t get anything from the divorce. He made himself look destitute financially. When he bought the house, he even titled it under Anise’s name. And guess what I found among the attorney’s paperwork that made me figure this all out.” “What?” “A deed of transfer from Anise to Ryan! It was already complete. All it needed was Anise’s signature to be executed with the land court. I don’t think the attorney intended for me to see that, I don’t know how it even got into the probate paperwork we were working on.” “How strange.” “Steffan, all Ryan was referring to was his need for Anise in order to have access to what he truly cared about. Money.” “The attorney, what was his name?”

300

Maya DeLeina

“Alan White.” “That’s the same attorney who drafted the offer to purchase the house for Ryan. Did he mention anything about Anise, or did he act like he didn’t remember her?” “You know, he had to read his notes and documents just to recall his dealings with Anise. He even admitted not being able to remember much on her case. And the thing is, Anise would’ve never thought of doing a will on her own. She completed the will just shortly before her death. I still can’t make sense of all of that.” “It sounds like she enthralled the attorney. Anya, she must’ve done this for a specific reason.” “I know, but I haven’t figured…” Anya stopped in midsentence and immediately sat up in bed. She reached for the covers and pulled them over her naked body. “What is it, Anya? Did you hear something?” “No. I feel something. I think Ryan is in the house!” “I would’ve sensed him! Besides, the guys are supposed to be watching him.” Steffan shook his head. “Well, he is here. And he is shielding. I can feel it.” “Damnit! His shielding is stronger than I originally thought! Fuck! Where is he?” “He is making his way up the staircase.” Anya scrambled off the bed. “He is headed our way, Steffan!” “Get dressed!” Steffan jumped off the bed and searched for his jeans and shirt. “Anya, does he have any weapons? Is anyone else with him?” “No. He’s alone. He has something in his hand. I can’t make it out. But it doesn’t appear to be a weapon.” Anya paused, frowning in concentration. “Oh, my god. He is coming!” Anya concentrated on the door and moved all the locking mechanisms in place with her mind. “Lock yourself in the master bath. Don’t come out until I get you, no matter what you hear,” Steffan said as he pulled on a pair of jeans. “But, Steffan, I have kinesis. I can try to move something, do something to help you.” “Not right now. I don’t want him to even see you. And if you see him, you might not be able to control your instinct again. It’s too dangerous. Go!” Steffan commanded.

Veil of Seduction

301

Anya scrambled to the master bath just as the handles on the master bedroom were tested from the outside. **** Three slow knocks at the door followed and echoed through the room. “Steffan, I know you’re in there with my wife!” Ryan shouted from the other side of the door. “Ryan, you are intruding in my home. Leave and we will discuss this at the council. I already set up a midnight meeting. You can say your piece then.” “So you are going to be a pussy in front of Anya and not open this door to face me man-to-man?” Ryan’s muffled taunt rang in Steffan’s ears. Suddenly, the double doors burst open, sending Ryan to retreat in haste. “Here I am, Ryan. What do you want?” Ryan peered around Steffan’s body. “I just want what’s mine, and I’ll be on my way.” “She’s not yours, Ryan. She is my mine! You discarded Anya well before I even made you. You cannot have her! You will not have her!” Steffan spoke with an eerie fury though his body remained calm and collected. “I discarded nothing, and you know that. I’m giving you a chance here,” Ryan barked back at Steffan. “You’ve crossed the line, Ryan, you must leave now.” “I crossed the line? You broke the fucking law, Steffan, and you’ll pay—with your life!” “I know Madeleine is behind this and I don’t know what kind of bullshit she fed you, but it would be wise not to listen to her. She’s using you to get back at me.” “Just shut up! Shut up! I want what’s mine, now. I will take my wife to our home and leave you be,” Ryan said as he tried to push Steffan aside. “It would be wise for you to refrain from touching me again, Ryan. Step back, I’m warning you!” “Anya? Honey? Come on out. I have something for you.” Ryan held a diamond ring and a wedding band in his hand.

302

Maya DeLeina

“What the fuck do you think you’re doing? We have already claimed each other. She’s mine!” Steffan grabbed a hold of Ryan’s shoulders and pinned him up against the wall. “Oh, and I can clearly see you couldn’t help yourself and fucked her again full knowing she was my wife!” Anya, call for Rhys and Eilian. I need their help before I end up killing him. I can help you. No, stay in the room. What did he have in his hands? Your wedding ring. “You know, I’ve watched you fuck her over and over again in this very room? You remember that night you caught me in the dining room? I was there to watch the show. I wanted to see Anya on display, every beautiful inch of her. Inside and out. Everything you’ve done to her…that’s what I am going to do to her as soon as I get her home.” “You sick, fucking, twisted asshole!” Steffan punched Ryan in the face, breaking his nose. The black veins crept up from his cheek and congregated on his nose, repairing the break in an instant. Frustrated, Steffan began punching Ryan’s face repeatedly. Black blood flowed from his nose, and gashes near his eyes and mouth. The sound of his bones shattering under Steffan’s fist was deafening. Anya, get Rhys and Eilian here now! I can’t control myself! I am going to kill him. They’re coming, Steffan. Hold on! You can’t get yourself into any more trouble with the council. I can claim it was self-defense. He’s intruding in my home! Steffan, you’re much stronger than Ryan. They’ll never believe you! Anya, he watched us make love! Steffan struggled within himself but found the willpower to stop and released Ryan. Ryan fell to the ground. His blood dripped from his face. His repair mechanisms were working overtime to fix the breaks and fractures in his face while he used his saliva to close his wounds. Ryan started laughing on the ground as Steffan paced the hall outside the master bedroom, tying to regain his composure.

Veil of Seduction

303

“I can’t say I blame you. Her skin is so soft. Her touch is consuming. If you hadn’t stirred in bed that morning while Anya and I were exploring each other’s flesh, I could’ve had her writhing to an orgasm with just my fingers in no time.” “Damnit!” Steffan let out a roar and picked Ryan up off the floor by his neck. Ryan’s body dangled in the air as Steffan squeezed. “Steffan. No!” Rhys screamed as he and Eilian made their way up the grand staircase to the hall that led to Steffan and Anya’s master bedroom. Eilian grabbed Steffan around the chest, trying to pull at his arms to lower Ryan. Rhys worked on prying open Steffan’s fingers from around Ryan’s neck. “Let go, Steffan! Don’t do this!” Rhys yelled. Steffan released his hold, and Ryan came crashing down to the ground, gasping for air. “You both saw it. He tried to kill me. I was just here to talk this out, and he went crazy. You saw it. You have to witness in front of the council tonight.” “I didn’t see a goddamn thing. Did you, Eilian?” Rhys asked. “Nope,” Eilian responded quickly. “All I see is you here, intruding in Steffan’s home. I say his reaction was just one of self-defense,” Rhys said angrily. “Get him out of here and change all of the tunnel codes now!” Steffan ordered as he headed back to the room to Anya. “It’s not over, Steffan. I will be seeing you tonight. You will pay!” Ryan screamed as Eilian and Rhys hurried him out of the home.

304

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Twenty-Three “My love, show me what you learned,” Steffan said as Anya guided her leg over the motorcycle and settled into a seated position. “My right hand is to accelerate and apply the front brake. I twist my wrist toward me to apply throttle.” “And?” “A little twist goes a long way. Be delicate with the control,” Anya stated in a monotone voice as if reciting the lines straight from an instructional manual. “Good. Continue.” “This lever here applies the front brakes.” “And?” Anya rolled her eyes. “Be very smooth and gentle with the application, if you pull on it too hard, you can skid,” Anya mimicked Steffan’s accent and voice. “Very Good. The accent, not so good.” Steffan shook his head. “Keep going.” “This is my clutch that connects and disconnects the engine from the transmission. When I squeeze, the bike is in neutral. When I let go, I enable the engine to turn the transmission.” Anya applied her weight and pitched the bike to the opposite side. “My foot controls the shift. I nudge the shifter upwards to upshift and push it down to downshift.” “Show me how you shift with the clutch.” “Disengage, shift, engage,” Anya said as she followed with the correct movements on the control. “Yup, that’s it.” “Here is my kill switch, key, and start button.” Anya stopped and spoke with a tinge of irritation, “We’ve been through this all morning and afternoon. Can we go now?”

Veil of Seduction

305

“All right, All right. I’m only letting you do this because your new vampire abilities allow you to acquire skills and learn things rapidly and you can repair yourself if something goes wrong. Otherwise, you would be with me on the cruiser again.” “You promised that once I turned, I could ride one of the bad boys.” “And of course you chose the Ducati.” “Hey, blame your dream for that one!” “Well, what are you waiting for? Start that bad boy up!” Steffan said with gusto. The engine roared, and Anya grinned as the bike vibrated beneath her. Steffan shook his head and smiled at her as he started his sleek black and gray Ninja. “Let it idle to warm up for about forty-five seconds,” Steffan yelled over the engines at Anya. Anya nodded in response. As they sat waiting, Anya looked over at Steffan, admiring the way he looked straddling the bike. She whistled in his direction. Steffan laughed. “You ready?” “Yup!” “We’ll do test runs on the street first.” “No! Just go, Steffan. I got this!” “You sure?” “Yes.” “Listen, when we hit the gravel portion of the road up on the peak, slow it down, all right?” “Yes, sir.” “And keep pace with me, don’t be hotdoggin’ it out there.” “I won’t.” Anya smiled as she engaged the engine and took off out of the garage. This woman will be the death of me! Steffan said to himself as he followed her lead. **** It was dusk, and the brilliant sunset left traces of pink and purple to linger in the darkening sky.

306

Maya DeLeina

The summer-evening ride to the top of the peak had a much different feel and look to the rides Steffan and Anya took along the same path during spring. This time, the scent of lilacs permeated the air. The breeze still held a delicate crispness, but a warming sensation was noticeably heavy in the air. The aspen leaves shimmered like coins in the evening breeze. In the distance, dark clouds painted the sky. **** Steffan laid out a blanket in the outcropping of rocks and took a seat. Anya took her usual place and snuggled between his legs. Masterfully, Steffan rounded his hands to the front of Anya’s jacket. With the rasp of the zipper, he made quick work of removing the bulky leather jacket that hindered his ability to get as close as he possibly could to Anya. “I must say, you looked absolutely sexy on the Ducati. I could barely keep my eyes on the road at times,” Steffan whispered in Anya’s ear. His low timbre and velvety accent sent a shiver down her spine and caused the delicate traces of hair on her arms and neck to stand on edge. “You were looking mighty sexy there too, Mr. Matthews. So what do I do, breathe in deeply?” “Just breathe normally. Let the oxygen-level shift in our bodies do all the work to revitalize us,” Steffan responded as he brushed the length of her hair back, exposing her neck and shoulders. He ran his hands up and down each side of her upper arms and shoulders. “Steffan, what do you think about tonight?” “I have a good feeling about it.” “But I attacked him in front of everyone!” “Don’t worry. We can make a case for that. I mean, you were only one day old and hadn’t been able to harness all of your innate reactions. The only thing I’m hoping for is that Rhys and Eilian can find Alex. I need to know what’s going on with Madeline and what she told Ryan that would make him flip out like this,” Steffan responded, a hint of concerned laced in his words. “But first…” The inflection of Steffan’s voice was seductive. From her ear down to her shoulder, he planted wet kisses randomly on her exposed flesh.

Veil of Seduction

307

Anya leaned back into Steffan, silently signaling for more. More kisses, more whispers in her ear, more caressing, more everything. Her ability to respond to just the mere sound of his voice or slightest touch was astounding. And while the introduction of his kisses would’ve have already robbed her of her ability to form a single coherent thought, one unforgiving notion resurfaced in her mind, dampening the good mood she was in. “I can’t believe he watched us, Steffan! That was a private moment between us. A moment that was only to be shared by us!” Thunder rumbled above in the sky as if projecting the turbulent anger swirling in her body. Anya and Steffan jumped with the deafening sound. “Shit, I didn’t think the storm was going to be very bad. Quick, there is an overhang in the cliff that we can get under!” Steffan said. Anya looked up in the direction Steffan was pointing and quickly recognized what he was referring to. All at once, the rain began to fall. Big droplets came crashing down, stinging their skin and turning the chalky, pink mountainside into shining pieces of red and maroon granite below their feet. And just as the rain was sudden, the change in the air around them was abrupt. The smell was thick and heavy, with a hint of moss and metal. It had an old character to it, but not unpleasing. It was clean and grounding, the smell of earth. “Hurry!” Steffan demanded. Anya was confused by Steffan’s sudden panic. So it was a little rain. Surely vampires didn’t melt. She smiled as the scene from The Wizard of Oz popped into her mind. And surely it wasn’t because Steffan was overly concerned about ruining his sexy wind-swept look. In fact, a little rain could probably wash away the definite helmet hair they were both sporting. Still, without fully understanding, Anya made haste upon Steffan’s demand. As she drew closer to the makeshift shelter, the formation of the mountainside was revealed. “Steffan! It looks like more than just an overhang shelter. It looks like a cave!” “Get in as far as you can!” Anya crouched and ducked her head through the entrance, slipping into the deep crevice that was naturally carved into the mountainside. Steffan was at her heels, shaking the rain from his hair. Anya stood up against the

308

Maya DeLeina

wall, watching as Steffan laid out the blanket on the dirt floor and took off his rain-soaked jacket. She looked around at their surroundings. They were protected in the confines of the cave as the rain continued to come down hard just outside the entrance. She could also feel Steffan’s demeanor change. He was calmer, with a definite sense of relief. Steffan sat on the blanket, leaning back slightly and propped himself up on his arms. He nodded at Anya, motioning between his outstretched legs, and she took her usual spot, curling her legs in. They faced the cave’s entrance, quietly watching the patterns of the rain shift with the wind as it intensified. A bolt of lightning lit up the sky. “One one-hundred, two one-hundred,” Anya counted as the sky cracked above them. “It’s close! Do you want to play in the rain?” “What do you mean by play?” Anya smiled as she projected a scene in her mind that Steffan was sure to pick up on. Not able to see her facial expression, Steffan traced her mind and caught the image of them making love in the standing position. They were outside on the rocks, mist curling around their feet as the rain came down all around them. Above, the black-ink sky lit up with the electrical storm, highlighting Anya’s breasts as they traced along his rippled abdomen. “As much as I would love to, we can’t. Vampires have to be very careful in this weather. If we get struck by lightning, it can erase our abilities.” “Oh, I didn’t know that. I figured we were impervious. No wonder you were panicked.” “Yes, very panicked. I’ve never witnessed it myself, but the damage from lightning strikes has been documented throughout our kind’s existence. Some cases were mild, losing a bit of smell or hearing capabilities. And some were extensive, losing all inborn abilities known. I don’t want to take that chance, especially not with you. But…” “But what?” Anya asked suspiciously. “But we can play here in the cave.” “My thoughts exactly. My god, are we obsessed!” Anya laughed as Steffan laid her down on the blanket. Steffan’s mouth captured hers, and he kissed her deliciously. Her toes curled in her boots.

Veil of Seduction

309

It was their branded kiss, never too familiar and never less than amazing. Kissing him each time was unlike the last time and different from the first time. Like nothing she had ever felt before, she couldn’t describe it in adequate words. If anything, it was like a drug, completely enrapturing, and she lost herself each time in its purity, intimacy, and consumption. She loved the way he would zero in on her thickly fleshed bottom lip, delicately creating suction, nibbling, and cunningly adding the massage of his tongue. She never wanted it to end. “I can’t stop kissing you,” Steffan said fervently between the kisses and his attempt to catch his breath. He unzipped Anya’s jacket slowly. “Then don’t.” Anya cupped his face and lifted to seize his mouth. He moaned into her kiss as he fisted her hair in his hands. “Steffan, kiss me all over,” demanded Anya. Steffan slid down the column of her neck, leaving a wet trace of his hot kisses. He buried himself in the crevice of her neck, taking in her scent and sinking his teeth deep into her flesh. Anya moaned in ecstasy. “Oh yes! Steffan!” She reached down and found Steffan’s buttocks. With two hands firmly situated, she pushed down on him, motioning him to grind into her. Steffan released her neck, sealing her wound and gasping for air. His eyes were red, full of deep-seated passion, as droplets of Anya’s blood fell from his fangs. In one quick movement, Steffan was suddenly on his back. Anya was on top, grinding against his cock as she took her turn in sinking her teeth deep into the crevice of his neck. Anya had a feeling that Steffan wasn’t used to a woman being in the dominant role. But, she felt his rigidness slowly relax under her control and he allowed her do as she pleased. Then, Steffan’s eyes flew open. In all the time Anya drank from him, she managed to undo his belt and release him from the confines of his briefs. She wrapped her sweet hands around his engorged shaft, sliding up and down and teasing his moistened tip. Steffan released a moan as Anya settled deeper in their vampire kiss. Anya sealed the wound and looked down at Steffan.

310

Maya DeLeina ****

Anya was the epitome of sexiness. Her eyes burned red, her rain-soaked mane wildly framing her face as she panted like an animal. One eyebrow shot up as her long tongue darted out, slowly liking her lips in a full circle to capture any remnants of blood. “Damn, you are one sexy vampire, woman!” Just as she was about to devour Steffan’s body, Anya stopped in a flash. Her head darted to the entrance, seeking and evaluating. Her eyes abruptly morphed into crimson. “He is here, Steffan!” “What! Ryan? He followed us?” “I don’t think he followed us. I think he was here before us.” Anya paused to concentrate deeper. “Yes he came up to the peak on the last cog train. I thought I felt something earlier, but it kept fading. I should’ve said something, but I just wasn’t sure of myself. I’m still trying to figure out my abilities. He is close now. He knows we’re here.” “How in the hell did he know we were here?” “Do some vampires have a sensing ability?” “Yes, it’s the early stages of the tracking ability.” “Then that is what he has. He can shield and sense. He was on the opposite side of the peak when he suddenly changed course, sensing we were here.” “But it’s been documented that sensing abilities are typically only tied to—” Steffan stopped short. “Mates.” Anya finished his thought. “Steffan, that can’t be the only link. Vampires must have the ability to sense regardless of mate match or not. I am not drawn to him. I am yours. You are mine. Maybe the bloodline report didn’t correctly document the ability.” Steffan nodded. “It’s possible. So where is he? Is he alone again?” “Yes. He’s alone. I just can’t tell exactly where he is. Everything looks the same.” Steffan tucked himself back into his pants and moved to the entrance of the cave. He carefully scanned the surroundings. A lightning bolt crashed down just a few feet from the opening, forcing him to retreat back in the cave.

Veil of Seduction

311

“Anya, stay behind me!” Anya clung to Steffan as she zipped up her jacket. “I’m scared, Steffan.” “I won’t let him hurt you. And he can’t hurt me. What we have to worry about is this lightning!” “Anya!” Ryan’s deep bellow from above jolted Steffan and Anya. “Oh my god! He’s insane!” “Anya! Anya! Anya!” Anya cried as Ryan continued to scream her name. Instinctively, she covered her ears with her hands. “Was he obsessed or crazed like this in his human form?” Steffan asked frantically. “No. I mean he obsessed over things, not me.” “Fuck! He’s viewing you like an object. Anya, I don’t even think he has genuine feelings for you. I think he’s just preoccupied with the thought of taking you from me, like a trophy of sorts, to reduce my power in the family.” “Now that sounds more like him.” “Steffan! I know you’re hiding in there, in that the cave like a coward! Release your hold on Anya and come out. Let her see us side by side. Let her choose of her own free will!” Ryan demanded. The lightning flashed, and the thunder rolled almost simultaneously. Steffan grabbed Anya and pulled her deeper into the cave. “Don’t touch the walls! Stay close to the ground right here,” Steffan demanded as he moved to the entrance of the cave. “Steffan, he’s not going to attempt to come in here.” “How do you know that?” “It’s a hunch. I think he’s looking for an elaborate spectacle. He wants us to come outside, on the tundra with him.” “That’s too dangerous. I won’t risk that with you.” “What other option do we have? He’s not going away.” “Steffan!” Ryan screamed from above, his voice feral and sharp. “What are we going to do?” Anya asked. Steffan deliberated, assessing all of their options. There wasn’t much he could do.

312

Maya DeLeina

“All right, we’re going out there.” Steffan looked over Anya. “Your jacket, take it off. There’s too much metal on it. Take off all of your jewelry and your belt.” Anya hurried to free herself from the jacket and her belt and then removed her jewelry, watch, and ring. Steffan spoke as he removed his belt from its loops and took off his bracelet and ring, “Listen to me. We need to stay as low to the ground as possible. The lightning usually strikes the tallest object since it’s the easiest path to take. We are going to be out on the tundra, so we’ll be the tallest objects out there.” Steffan paused, shaking his head. “Damnit, I wish there was another way!” “Steffan, we have to go out there. He’ll do anything, smoke or burn us out of this cave. We’re like sitting ducks in here. Look, just tell me what I have to do.” Steffan released a deep breath. “When we go out there, I want you to sit on your heels like this, on the ground.” Steffan positioned himself in the form he wanted Anya to take. “Once on the ground, try to tuck your head down. And spread out from me and Ryan. Our bodies shouldn’t be that close. If lightning hits me, I don’t want it to have the ability to jump to your body.” “What about you? What are you going to do?” “Fight him.” “No!” “Yes, Anya. I need him to expend his energy so I can take over and get you out of here safely.” “No!” “Anya. I was responsible for him since I was his maker. I never got to teach him about the methods vampires can be physically damaged or even die. Look at him! He is walking around out there with no care in the world about the lightning. Madeleine didn’t teach him anything.” “No, Steffan. I can’t watch you two fight!” “Look. I need to provoke him so he attacks me with all of his strength and energy. Once I can find a way to subdue him momentarily, I can focus on getting you off this mountain and away from him. That’s just the way it has to be, Anya. There’s no other way.” “Then can you promise me you won’t get hurt?” “Promise. Can you promise me something?”

Veil of Seduction

313

“What?” “Be careful out there and do as I say.” “Yes.” “I love you, Anya.” “I love you.” “Ready?” “Ready.” Anya nodded. **** The wind and rain thrashed against their skin, stinging them as they climbed up the rocks to the clearing. The tundra had a marked elevation from where they stood. Ryan loomed above them. He was situated at the very pinnacle, prominent and undeniable, his arms outstretched in a welcoming gesture. Behind him, the black sky lit up with spouts of evil energy. With each burst of brilliant sheets of light, the fury in the darkness was unveiled. Wicked clouds swirled about, like a wake of octopus ink released in the water. “Anya, my beautiful wife! Come closer to your husband so I can see you better.” A burst of electricity shot through the sky, this time a cloud-to-cloud bolt. Steffan, I’m going to kill him. I feel the heat building in me. Fight it, Anya. Fight it. You can overcome it. If it looks like he might hurt you, then and only then can you release it. Why? Why can’t I just kill him and be done with it? Because if you give in to the beast inside without provocation, your body will get accustomed to the feeling and you may turn feral…a rogue in its truest form. “I am not your wife and you are not my husband!” Anya shouted in fury. “He’s enthralling you, baby. That’s his secret power. He did it to me, too,” Ryan responded in a way that made Anya’s skin crawl. “You discarded me like trash. Why do you even want me now?” “I never discarded you. How could I have done that to a beauty like you? That’s his mind tricks on us. All lies.”

314

Maya DeLeina

“Enough, Ryan! Anya, do as I said,” Steffan interjected with an undeniable authority. Anya positioned herself on the ground as Steffan instructed. Steffan quickly followed, mimicking the same form. Ryan looked confused as they both appeared to be kneeling in a gesture of surrender. Ryan smiled at the sight. “What is this? Why the sudden turn of events, Steffan? Giving in so soon?” No way. He thinks we’re kneeling before him to surrender! So he doesn’t know about the dangers in the lightning storm for a vampire. Should we play along? Yes. Follow my lead. “I can’t keep this going. She’s too strong. She’s been breaking through the enthrallment ever since she saw you. She’s recalling things from her past too quickly,” Steffan said, his voice cracking at times. A lightning bolt came striking down to the ground, turning the tundra into a smoldering blackness. Tuck your head in, Anya! Ryan was laughing wildly as the thunder growled above them. “You’re afraid of a little lightning and thunder, my love? Don’t be. Thanks to Steffan here, we are immortals. Nothing can kill or harm us. We are invincible!” Anya looked up at Ryan. His expression was smug. She couldn’t just sit there like Steffan demanded. She needed to do something. “Ryan, I’m starting to recall my feelings for you. But I’m torn between you both. I don’t know what to do!” Anya screamed out in the rain. Steffan gave her a sidelong look of concern. It’s the game, Steffan, don’t worry. I have an idea. “Well, you’re rightfully mine, Anya. We were married in our human life, so he had no right to start a claim on you.” “But he still has a hold on me, Ryan! He’ll never let go of me. We will never be rid of him even if we try to start our life back together again!” Anya yelled as the rain poured down her face. Steffan, you need to start acting like a crazed lover. I think I see where you’re going with this. Let me play it up.

Veil of Seduction

315

“No! You can’t have her, Ryan. She is mine. I completed a full claim on her. If you take her, I will hunt you two down.” Steffan took a quick look at Anya. “You’ll have to kill me first before you even think of taking her from me!” In an instant, Ryan hurled himself through the air and crashed into Steffan’s body. Oh my god, Steffan…I didn’t mean for this! Love, I am all right. Did you see what I was projecting in my mind? Yes. I just spotted it. The light bounced off of it from that last strike. It’s to the left of me…about fifty yards away. I see it! I’m gonna try to move us near it. But I can use my kinetics to move it here! No. Your energy thread is still on it and could harm you if the lightning strikes it. Let me do this. Anya remained on the ground, her heart breaking as she watched Steffan and Ryan go at it on the open tundra. The two men rolled down the grade of the mountainside as they held on to each other. Steffan’s back landed against a boulder, stopping their momentum in their tracks. Ryan was on top of Steffan, growling and grunting, full of rage. “Fucker!” Ryan yelled as he threw a punch. In response, Steffan moved his head quickly to the opposite side of the punch. Ryan’s fist carved out a hole in the earth where it landed. Steffan threw an uppercut, catching Ryan’s chin. Black blood and spit spewed from Ryan’s mouth with the contact. Ryan splayed his hands over Steffan’s face, forcing his head to sink deep into the ground. Steffan bit a chunk of flesh from the heel of Ryan’s palm and spit it out. Ryan screamed in pain, clutching his hand at the wrist as he fell to the ground. Instantly, the black tendrils ignited and traveled to the wound. Steffan stood up and wiped his mouth of the black blood. A thunderbolt shot down, splitting off in two, striking the ground once again in synchronicity, and Steffan looked up instinctively to survey the sky.

316

Maya DeLeina

Without warning, Ryan crashed into Steffan, forcing them to fly through the air. They landed on a boulder, Ryan on top of Steffan. “Steffan!” Anya cried and ran toward the men. Stay there! Don’t come near us! Stay close to the ground! No! You need my help. I’m all right. I need to get him closer to it, so he’ll try to use it on me! What! I thought you wanted it to use on him! No. Anya, please do what— Steffan’s inward conversation with Anya was suddenly broken. Ryan lifted Steffan’s head and sent it crashing down to the boulder. Bright-red blood covered the rock. “Steffan! No!” Anya yelled in horror. “Steffan? Who in the hell do you want to win here?” Ryan demanded. “I’m doing this all for you!” Anya stammered her response. “I–I don’t know. I have feelings for you both! I’m confused!” “Well, I’ll make it simple for you!” Ryan said coldly as he picked up a rock, the edge jagged and sharp, almost triangular in shape. He lifted the stone and came down with force, impaling Steffan in the stomach. The force of the entry caused pieces of the rock to shatter in Ryan’s hand. Steffan cried out in agony. I can’t take this, Steffan! You told me not to worry, that you couldn’t get hurt! You need help! No, Anya! Yes, all right, it hurts. But he can’t permanently damage me. Please, do as I say and stay back. **** Steffan’s repair mechanisms were on high alert, expelling pieces of the rock from his body and mending the puncture wound in his stomach. Ryan growled with frustration. “Why can’t you just die!” Ryan punched Steffan in the face with a series of rapid blows. All his efforts merely marred Steffan’s face temporarily as his repair mechanisms responded to each tear, puncture, and bone break. “Goddamnit!” Ryan yelled, breathless, tiring from his expended energy.

Veil of Seduction

317

This was exactly the moment Steffan had waited for. With one hand, Steffan wrapped his fingers tightly around Ryan’s neck, lifting him off of his body and straight in the air. A growl rumbled in the pit of Steffan’s stomach, his eyes burning deep crimson. He looked Ryan deep in the eyes as he held him over his body by the neck. Ryan was panicked, punching Steffan’s arm and desperately trying to pry open his fingers. Steffan thought about all the times he’d made love to Anya as Ryan watched quietly in the corner and the rumble in his body turned into a menacing roar. In one swift move, Steffan threw Ryan’s flailing body, aiming for a boulder clear across the tundra. The move mimicked a quarterback throwing a Hail Mary pass. Ryan flew through the air, the back of his head taking the brunt of the impact against the boulder, shattering his skull. Ryan lay motionless, allowing the tendrils to work their magic on the extensive injury. Steffan took to the air and landed on Ryan’s chest, slicing a deep gash in the crevice of his neck with his razor-sharp, clawlike fingernail. Anya took to the air and stayed at a safe distance, landing behind a large boulder. Steffan stood over Ryan, a fountain of black blood cresting from his neck. Ryan scrambled to gather his saliva to mend the puncture wound. A lightning bolt struck, the closest strike yet, and shook the earth below her feet. Steffan backed off of Ryan and moved his attention in search for Anya. Anya! Stay down! Tuck your head! Ryan kicked up, his foot landing squarely on Steffan’s chest. Steffan flew backward, landing on his back on the smoldering tundra. Ryan ran to Steffan, intent on continuing his attack. Steffan outstretched his legs, tripping Ryan. He fell against a rock, puncturing his temple and crushing his eye socket. A lightning bolt touched down again, mere inches from where Anya stood. Anya screamed and tucked her head. Steffan stood frantically to see if Anya was all right. Anya, I do need your help. He still doesn’t see it and this lightning is too bad to continue on. All right, I can do it.

318

Maya DeLeina

Do it quick! Ryan crawled toward Steffan and grabbed his ankles, pulling him to the ground. **** Anya watched Ryan’s attack on Steffan. He was completely healed, his eye carefully tucked back into his socket. But he looked tired and worn, as if he couldn’t fight anymore. And she couldn’t take watching them fight any longer. She needed to end this. She fixed her gaze on the object that Steffan projected in his mind. It was a metal stake that sat planted in the ground. The metal stake looked like it had either been carelessly left behind by campers in the area or been used as a marker of some sort. Either way, Anya focused her energy on the stake as Steffan and Ryan wrestled each other. It’s coming loose, Steffan. It’s working! Hurry and move it toward him. Coax him to use it on me. I’ve been counting the minutes between the lightning strikes, and it’s due any time now. Anya applied that last ounce of energy she had to the stake, and the earth released its steady hold. Anya set it down gently near Ryan. Do it now, Anya! “Ryan, the stake! Kill him so we can be free!” Anya yelled frantically as Ryan looked around for the object she was referring to, inconspicuously there at his feet. Here we go, shield your eyes, Anya! Ryan punched Steffan in the face. Steffan remained motionless, coaxing Ryan to start his fury. Ryan got up off of Steffan and reached for the metal stake. He took his place, a perfect stance over Steffan’s motionless body. Standing over Steffan, he held on to the long, sharp piece of metal, slowly raising it above his head. He screamed with a deep ferocity as he pulled the weapon back with every intent to lunge it deep into Steffan’s body. The lightning bolt crashed down on cue, catching the metal stake and piercing through Ryan. The stake sent shards of lightning to bounce in every

Veil of Seduction

319

direction. Steffan rolled out from underneath Ryan’s shaking body and took his position close to the ground. Ryan wailed in pain as the sparks lit up the darkened mountaintop like fireworks on the Fourth of July. “Anya, are you all right?” Steffan yelled as the electric show ended. “Yes! Are you good?” “I’m fine.” They both stood tall and ran toward each other, embracing tightly. Anya looked over at Ryan. His body shook on the ground. “And he’s not dead?” “No. He’ll be out for a little bit, but I can definitely tell you that he lost at least some of his abilities.” “What about the council? Isn’t he expected to be there? What are we going to tell them? It’s in two hours!” “I didn’t see anything. Did you?” Anya laughed. “Nope.”

320

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Twenty-Four “Cutting it close, aren’t we?” Rhys said to Anya and Steffan as they walked through the door, rain soaked and windswept. “What happened? Anya get stopped by five-o on the bike?” Anya smiled. I am starting to understand what you explained about Rhys. About him studying and memorizing movie lines? Yes. And I am trying not to laugh. It takes practice. You’ll get used to it soon enough. “Not exactly. Is Alex here?” Steffan asked as he broke the inward conversation with Anya. Anya moved quickly, making her way up the stairs to their bedroom. Steffan followed, with Eilian and Rhys close behind. “We have a problem,” Eilian said. They made their way through the double doors of the master bedroom to find Catrin and Brynne waiting. “Oh, hello, ladies,” Steffan said, smiling as he gave them both a peck on the cheek. “Are you here to help my Anya get ready?” “Yes. Come, Anya. Let’s get you ready for the meeting.” The women scurried off into the master bathroom. “All right, what’s the problem?” Steffan walked to the massive walk-in closet and shed all his clothes right in front of the two men. “Towel?” Eilian asked as he grabbed for the thick cotton towel that hung on the hook right next to the robes. “Thanks. So what is it?” Steffan asked as he dried his body off. “The injections. They’re gone.” “All of them?” “No. There were only four left. By the log inventory count, we should’ve had at least twenty-two.”

Veil of Seduction

321

“Shit! What about Alex?” “Can’t find him either. No one has seen him the past couple of weeks.” “And Madeline?” Steffan reached into the drawer and slipped on his black briefs. “We don’t know what she is up to.” Steffan slid his legs through black slacks and adjusted a belt around his waist. His mind raced as he shook his head. “Sorry, Steffan, but we’re not any closer to knowing what to fucking expect tonight,” Rhys said with an air of anger and disappointment. “That’s all right. I still feel good about the meeting,” Steffan said as he reached for a form-fitting, gray sweater and pulled it over his head and down his chest. “We can’t find Ryan either, Steffan,” Eilian jumped in. “I don’t know what is going on.” “I think Ryan is just fine.” Steffan started laughing. “What?” Rhys said. “Did you do something to him?” Eilian asked. “Not me, my mate,” Steffan said. “She has kinesis abilities.” “No shit! That’s awesome!” Rhys said. “What did she do?” asked Eilian. “I think she would rather tell you herself. Hang on.” Steffan slipped on his shoes and communicated inwardly with Anya. Anya, the guys want to know about Ryan. Are you decent? Yes. They have me in a thick robe and insisted on doing my hair and makeup. All right, the boys are coming in then. **** “I thought this was going to be an informal meeting just to gather the facts,” Steffan said as he entered the mass enthrallment room with his immediate family. The entire family was packed in the stadium-style seating that soared up several feet. The center of the room was notably rearranged. A long table with seating for six was arranged in front. A laptop and projection system sat behind the table facing the wall. Two smaller tables were positioned

322

Maya DeLeina

perpendicular to the long table. Four council members were seated at each table, notably missing their two remaining members, one being the head of the council. A twinge of panic raced through Steffan, and he squeezed Anya’s hand. “Steffan and Eilian, please take a seat,” said one of the council members. Steffan and Eilian gave Anya and Catrin a kiss before they took the seats with the general public seating with Rhys and Brynne. “Anya, I am sorry, but you must take a seat up here as well.” The council woman pointed to a seat at the far end of where Steffan sat. Steffan? What’s going on? I’m not too sure, love. Just do what they say. It’ll be okay. I’m right here. “Steffan, Eilian, and Anya. You are all facing your formal proceedings that will pass final judgment on your offenses against our family’s creed and laws.” “Formal proceedings? How did it get to this stage already? Where is the informal inquiry to gather information?” Steffan asked, rising. “Steffan, we realize your familiarity with the process. But since you were the chosen leader of this family and head of this council, a new process had to be developed and enacted in light of this rather delicate proceeding.” “All right, I understand the need to develop new processes because of who I am, but I’m afraid that you’re putting us at a great disadvantage. We are not prepared with anything at this point as we thought this was an informal inquiry.” “Your concerns have been noted, but are not being taken into consideration in light of the evidence that was provided to the council this evening.” “What evidence? From whom? Don’t you think we have a right to see what’s being provided to the council?” “Steffan, please take your seat so we can begin. Remember, you had selected every one of us on this council for consideration and we were voted in by the family. As you stated, we were selected for our integrity, equality, and ability to make sound judgments to uphold our creed and laws. Let us do our job.” Steffan nodded and sat back down. He glanced in Anya’s direction. She appeared unnerved.

Veil of Seduction

323

I feel your nervousness. I feel your heartbeat racing. I feel your pain in your gut. You can’t tell me that this is going to be all right anymore. I can feel the exact opposite stirring inside you. Steffan glanced down at the table. He couldn’t lie to Anya. Anya, I hate to admit this to you, but I am afraid. I have no control here. I don’t know what to expect and I don’t know what evidence they’re referring to. I’m right here, Steffan. No matter what, we’re here for each other. “Steffan Matthews, could you please disclose all of your abilities to this council?” Steffan shook his head in response. “Disclosing all of my abilities would in fact cripple me against any enemy. And I do believe I have an enemy who wishes to harm me and my mate who resides among this family.” “That is an unwarranted accusation. We are just trying to get to the bottom of all of this,” replied the council member. “Then let’s compromise. Ask me what you think I have the ability to do or control, and I will answer you.” “Agreed.” The council member paused as he focused on a notepad before him. “Do you have the ability to enhance and strengthen the powers of other vampires?” “Yes. But, for only those who share in the same ability as me.” “Do you have the ability to manifest?” “Yes.” “Do you have the ability to alter moods in vampires?” “Yes.” “Can you read the minds of all vampires, communicate inwardly with anyone of our kind?” “No. I share that only with my mate.” “Do you have the power to enthrall another vampires?” “Absolutely not.” The council took a brief moment to deliberate among each other on one side of the room while the other side of the council continued to take notes on Steffan’s responses. The crowd took the opportunity to whisper comments to each other. “Steffan, when Ryan was turned, why did you never provide the opportunity for a formal introduction with the entire family?”

324

Maya DeLeina

“I regret that I couldn’t devote more time in transitioning Ryan. He was my responsibility. However, I had discovered my mate connection the same night I turned Ryan. My natural instincts to devote my efforts to my mate quest consumed me. I apologize to the council and to the family for not making a formal introduction for Ryan.” “And you never disclosed to Anya that you had turned Ryan, nor did you disclose to Ryan that Anya was going through the claim ritual with you?” “No. I never told Anya. I was under the impression Ryan was her sister’s fiancé. Anya was already dealing with the sudden death of her sister, and I thought it would be too overwhelming emotionally for her if she was to also learn that Ryan was turned. As you know, I couldn’t risk any emotional breakdown, since the claim was already started. But Eilian and Rhys did disclose to Ryan on my behalf that I was in the claim ritual with Anya.” “Anya?” The council member adjusted in his seat to address Anya directly. “Yes, sir?” “Before the claim process began, did you not disclose to Steffan that you were already spoken for with Ryan?” “No, because I was not spoken for. Ryan left. He abandoned our marriage in October of last year. He left me for my identical twin, Anise. He did not want to be married to me any longer and said that he found another love, which was Anise. He also funneled all of our assets and funds in Anise’s name so I had no rights to the money. He deserted our marriage and left me destitute. I was granted a divorce a couple of months later. All of this happened before I met Steffan.” “What proof do you have that Ryan had indeed abandoned the marriage?” “There was a letter that he had left me. He didn’t even have the courtesy to do it in person. I burned it after I was granted the divorce, but my best friend, Michelle Ocsil, can serve as proof. She read the letter and saw all of the bank statements where he drained all of the money that I had access to. She gave me a job to work part-time just to help me make ends meet.” The council deliberated once again briefly, and the crowd exchanged opinions and notes in a low mumble.

Veil of Seduction

325

Did I do all right? You were perfect. “Anya, the council finds that there was indeed an absolution and dissolution of the union between you and Ryan that no longer bonded you as man and wife in you human life. Therefore, you were free to be claimed by Steffan. You are to remain Steffan’s chosen mate. You are also being dismissed of any reprimand on your attack on Ryan. The council recognized the duress you were under and your inability to harness your innate behavior in the situation. You are free to join the family.” He motioned Anya to take a seat with the family behind Steffan and Eilian. Steffan breathed a sigh of relief as Anya walked past him to sit next to Rhys and Brynne. One of the council members removed Anya’s chair from the table. I love you, Steffan. I am accepted as your mate. I love you, Anya. This will be over soon, and then we can celebrate. Steffan, how do we change my name officially to Matthews? We have someone in the records department. But I see what you’re thinking. Yes, I agree, this is definitely the way it should be done. Thank you. “I think you’ll be fine, Steffan! Look, they’re thinking outside the box with this human marriage thing. Everything will be all right,” Eilian whispered. “I hope so. I’m still trying to figure out what the three chairs are for and where Ryan and Madeline are at. Surely, they wouldn’t miss this for anything.” Right on cue, the council member spoke. “Madeline, Ryan, and Alex, you may join the proceedings up at the council inquiry table.” Steffan turned around, watching as the three made their way down the stairs from where they sat disguised in the general public seating. Ryan looked like he had aged ten years as the black burn lines remained etched in his skin. Alex looked dazed, as if under a trance. Madeline walked tall with an air of confidence. She raised her eyebrow in a small gesture toward Steffan as they took their seats at the table. Anya, do you see what I see? Yes! I can’t believe it. The lightning seemed to steal years from him! I didn’t know that was possible!

326

Maya DeLeina

Neither did I. And I believe his healing mechanisms to repair aesthetics have been damaged. He shouldn’t have that burn mark across his face. Steffan, we ruined his looks! He is going to be furious. Watch yourself up there! “Ryan, what happened to you? You look horrible,” the female council member stated as she gazed at Ryan. “I got struck by lightning earlier this evening. It wiped out most of my memory of what happened. And I do believe I’ve suffered quite a bit of damage to my abilities.” “How so?” “A metal stake hurled at me in the storm and stabbed me in the leg. The repair mechanisms were employed and repaired the damage, but my mechanisms to fix the damage across my face weren’t. I also seemed to age.” A male council member spoke in response. “It looks like the lightning robbed your of your ability to repair aesthetics and altered your cells to age you. Son, these are all things that can be remedied in other ways. Be thankful that your repair mechanisms are still intact.” Ryan nodded and looked down at the table. The male council member looked down at his notes and resumed the proceedings. “Eilian Matthews,” his voice boomed in the room. “Yes, sir.” “As the alternate leader of this family—” “Wait, Eilian is our alternate leader? When did the family vote on this?” Madeline blurted out of turn to the council. “Madeline, Steffan was free to choose an alternate to assume his responsibilities in times of need. We would still have to vote as a family to make any permanent changes.” “Thank you. I apologize for the disruption.” Wow. Is that what she wants? To take your place as leader of the family? Anya whispered to Steffan inwardly. It sure sounds sound like it. By the way, I can also hear what you are not saying. What?

Veil of Seduction

327

Miss innocent! Just remember, I was intrigued with her ability. That’s what attracted me to her. Sorry. She’s a little tacky for my taste. I couldn’t image you finding that appealing. I was too focused on her mate-matching abilities, thinking she could help me find you, that I didn’t even take notice. “Eilian, did you take steps to confirm Anya’s identity while Steffan was indisposed in an effort to uphold and protect our creed and law?” “Yes. I went to M.J. and did some legwork recon as well.” “And what did Madeleine tell you?” “She told me that Anise was Ryan’s fiancée. When I inquired about Anise, M.J. told me she had been killed in a car accident mere days after his turning. She confirmed that Anya and Anise were identical twins and that Anya’s husband had passed from a sudden aneurysm years before.” “What did she mention about Steffan?” Eilian searched his mind to recall the conversation. “She didn’t mention Steffan at all.” The council deliberated. “Eilian, the council finds that you had no wrongdoing in the situation. You are free to join the family.” He motioned Eilian to take a seat with the family behind the Steffan. Eilian patted Steffan on the shoulder as he left his seat to join Catrin. The council member removed Eilian’s chair from the inquiry table. “And now, to the matter of our leader, Steffan Matthews. Ms. Doyle has brought forward evidence in this case to the council earlier in the evening that we will share with the entire family. Ms. Doyle, am I to assume that Ryan Evans and Alex Stemper are the last parts of the evidence that we requested?’ “Yes, sir.” Steffan turned around and glanced at Eilian and Rhys. They both shrugged, not knowing what was going on. Steffan’s gaze met Anya’s. She was riddled with fear. Cariad, calm yourself. Your heart feels like it’s going to jump right out of your chest. I can’t help it, Steffan. What is she planning? What did she tell them? Anya, promise me something now.

328

Maya DeLeina

What? While it may be hard to find, there can be multiple mate matches for a vampire out there. Everything is based on complete capability between two souls. What are you asking me to promise? If this ends badly for me, I need you to promise me you will search for another match. Someone who would love you the same way I do. You have an entire century to find another mate, should I die. No. You’re hurting my heart. Don’t talk like that. Turn around and concentrate. They can’t do this to us. Anya… No! Don’t talk to me like that. Don’t say those words to me! Steffan retracted his mind from Anya and returned his focus back to the proceedings. “Please disclose the family members what you informed the council of in the matter of Steffan Matthews.” Madeleine turned around and addressed the family. “I held this information from the council and you because I was in fear for the life of my mortal daughter, Lisa. But I’m not going to burden myself with this anymore. Unforeseen events have occurred, and Lisa is no longer mortal. He has nothing to hold over my head.” Madeline took a long pause as if to regain her composure. She snuck a little glance at Steffan before proceeding. “Our leader, Steffan Matthews, visited me a few nights after he turned Ryan. He told me about the connection he’d made with an object that belonged to Ryan. He asked me to get all the background I could on Ryan. Alex and I gathered all we could at Steffan’s request. I called him the next day to arrange the meeting at his home. Instead, Steffan asked to meet me at my cabin to go over the information. Here is what I gave to Steffan.” Madeline turned on the projection unit that displayed a PowerPoint presentation from her laptop. With a click of the mouse, she engaged the slide show. One by one, the contents of the box she’d shared with Ryan displayed on the screen. The family gasped and mumbled as wedding photos, love notes, and the marriage certificate that belonged to Anya and Ryan played out in slow motion. “Is this is what was presented to Steffan?” a council member asked.

Veil of Seduction

329

“Yes.” “And Steffan came to see you prior to Eilian?” “Yes.” “Why didn’t you mention that to Eilian?” “Steffan told me not to.” “Steffan. What do you have to say in response?” “She showed me the some of this, not all. I didn’t see any of the wedding photos or the certificates. In fact, the only certificate she showed me was Anya’s name changes from Anya DeVera to Anya Somar. Other than that, all she shared with me were the notes, and they were only signed with A. I just assumed it for stood for Anise. And, I visited her after Eilian, not before.” “Madeline?” the council member voiced. “Here is a still shot of my security camera showing Steffan at my place.” Madeline clicked the presentation to advance to a fuzzy photo of Steffan walking up to the front door of the cabin with his red Ducati in the background. “And here is an angle of the camera that catches the interior of the house. It’s a little blurry, but you can see him going through a box. This is what I kept all Ryan and Anya’s belongings in.” The crowd’s collective voices talking at once rose in the room. What is this, Steffan? Where did she get this? This was when I was seeing her. I can’t believe she had security cameras. I can’t believe she kept the security tapes from that long ago. The box, she was showing me fucking photos of a rogue attack up at the reservoir along with items Alex collected from the scene. It was nothing to do with you. She is unbelievable! You’ve got to say something! I will, when it is my turn. “This is the picture that Steffan became obsessed with,” Madeline continued as she advanced the slide. A publicity photo for Anya’s Heartstring organization displayed on the screen. Anya was sitting in her studio with a long white dress on that seemed to glow all around her. She was playing her cello. “As with this one as well,” Madeline continued.

330

Maya DeLeina

A photo of both Anya and Anise together from their college graduation faded on the screen. A cheesy animation command sent the two photos in movement on the screen. Tears fell from Madeline’s eyes in a dramatic performance. “This is when he told me to burn the evidence and fabricate the story of Ryan being the fiancé of Anise instead. See, I already informed him that Anise had passed away earlier. He wanted Anya for himself. He was obsessed with her. He ignored that she was Ryan’s wife.” The crowd became unruly. Comments shot out left and right. “How could you, Steffan?” “You liar!" “Family, please, settle down,” the council member ordered the crowd to regain composure so they could proceed. “Madeline, what else did Steffan say to you that evening?” Madeline sniffled and released a wave of tears as she spoke, “He told me if Eilian came around asking about Ryan that I was to give him the story of Ryan and Anise instead. He said if I didn’t do as he commanded, he would kill Lisa.” The crowd became unruly once again as the sneers shot out instantaneously. “Why, Steffan? “Why did you do this?” “Once again, family, please, settle down. Proceed.” The council member motioned to Madeleine as the crowd quieted. “I later found out Ryan recalled Anya after his turning, but…” “I never recalled anything, Madeline,” Ryan interrupted. “You got hit by lightning, dear. There are a lot of things you don’t remember. Let me speak,” Madeline said as she rubbed his back. “I discovered that Steffan had the ability to enthrall vampires. He’s been hiding this from us, from day one that he stepped into Manitou. When Ryan recalled Anya after his turning, he enthralled Ryan, erasing all memories of Anya from him so he could claim her as his own.” “This is a very strong accusation. Please disclose to this council and the family what evidence you’ve brought forth to substantiate this enthrallment claim.”

Veil of Seduction

331

“As you know, I have the ability not only to detect mate matches between a human and vampire, but I also have telling abilities, to summon truth, even break through enthralls. This is why you elected me to be the family member in the law enforcement arena.” Madeline paused as she stood behind Alex and grasped his shoulders. “Ryan got hit with lightning, so he’s too far gone. I wouldn’t be able to summon the truth from him even if I wanted to. But I have Alex as my proof as well.” “Proceed.” “See, I told Steffan that Alex was slowly uncovering things, that I was either burying evidence on Ryan that we found or altering the transgression reports. Alex was growing more and more suspicious, and one day, he finally confronted me. I summoned Steffan. He was already down at the precinct. Steffan said he would take care of it, and he enthralled Alex to keep him quiet. It’ll take some doing, but I can summon the truth from Alex up until the time I think Steffan got a hold of him. After that, I don’t know what type of altered scenario he gave to Alex to break through. It’s like he can’t remember anything after that point.” “What do you mean?” “Let me show you.” Madeleine moved with a great sense of urgency and kneeled in from of Alex. She closed her eyes and drew a deep breath in, appearing to employ her telling abilities—her own twisted form of truth serum. “Alex, what did you see me do with Ryan’s reports?” “You filed them.” “Did you read them after they were filed?” “Yes.” “Were you upset with me?” “Yes.” “Why?” “When I examined the reports, they were altered. It wasn’t the information I’d collected or the story I pieced together from touching Anise’s remains.” “When you confronted me about it, what did I say, what did I do?” “You were crying. You were hysterical. You said Steffan made you do it. You said you had to protect Lisa.” “What happened next?”

332

Maya DeLeina

“I stormed out of the office. I was on my way to find Steffan, to confront him myself.” “Where did you go after leaving my office?” “To my office, to grab my coat.” “But someone was already in your office, waiting for you. Isn’t that right?” “Yes.” “Who was it, Alex? Who was there?” “Steffan.” “What did he say to you?” “He wanted to know what I saw, what I heard about Ryan.” “Then what happened?” “I screamed at him. I asked him why…why he was doing this. Then we scuffled for a bit, but Steffan was strong. I was no match for him.” “Go on.” “He picked me up, sat me in the chair. He sat on my desk, close to me. He told me I was doing a great job.” “You were doing a great job?” “He said to keep up the good work and to help you with whatever you needed.” “And that is it?” “Yes.” “Alex. What were you for Halloween last year?” Alex looked pained as he searched his mind. His brow scrunched together, and he closed his eyes tightly. Steffan and Eilian looked at each other in confusion as did the members of the council. “I–I…I can’t remember.” “What is the meaning of this line of questioning, Madeleine? How does this have any bearing?” asked the female council member. Madeline motioned her hand to the council. “Wait.” “Alex, when did you find Steffan in your office? What month was it? Was it before any special date, event, anything?” “It was October, just a few days before Halloween.” “Thank you, Alex.”

Veil of Seduction

333

Madeline got up and stood tall, addressing the family and the council. “Now, we all know Alex hosted the biggest costume party in Manitou Springs last year, and he can’t remember any of it. Nothing. Look, we were all there at the party. I mean, we all came as vampires! It’s not hard to remember! Alex would never forget an event such as that. He prepared months in advance for it. He talked for weeks about it. The last thing I can summon out of Alex is when Steffan met with him in his office alone, and then he goes blank. I can’t seem to get past anything in his mind no matter how hard I try. It’s like he’s stuck, right before October thirty-first.” Madeline pointed angrily in Steffan’s direction. “It was all his doing. Steffan enthralled him! And what’s worse, I don’t know how to pull Alex out of this state that he is in. I don’t know how much of an enthrall Steffan subjected him to.” “Steffan, what do you say to this?”

334

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Twenty-Five Steffan rose and spoke to the crowd. “I don’t have the power to enthrall another vampire. Humans, yes. But not a vampire, never a vampire. I don’t know how to prove this, to show you something I do not possess inside of me. And since you’ve already set this as a formal proceeding, I have no way of investigating what happened to Alex on my own, to formulate a sound explanation for what’s going on here. All I know is I did not enthrall Alex, I did not mate abduct, and I certainly never forced or coerced Madeline to do what she has claimed.” Steffan paused and searched the eyes of the council members. He saw it on their faces. They were riddled with skepticism and discontent. He knew the truth, and his family knew the truth. But the council had been taught to separate their personal feelings, assumptions, or partiality. They only knew to pass judgment based on what was being presented to them, no matter the age or reputation of the vampire, no matter the contributions the vampire provided for the family and certainly, no matter the position of power the vampire had in the family. They had been groomed and educated by Steffan, to focus on the evidence, base their verdict on even the smallest shred of confirmation. It had always been this way. It had to be this way. The power, strength and influence a vampire could possess, the damage that just one deceitful vampire was capable of, was unspeakable. One was all it took to bring down a family, to expose their kind. Sacrifice one for the greater good of the family was the adage they lived by. The doctrines, creeds, and laws were designed the same among lairs, the punishments and consequences exact and executed equally. It wasn’t an impenetrable justice system by any means, but it served them constructively and had never been used to tip the favor into the hands of malevolence. Until now.

Veil of Seduction

335

As it stood, Madeline had the so-called evidence needed to back up her testimony—photos of Steffan at her home, trinkets, memories of the life Ryan and Anya shared, and most importantly, Alex. She’d played out her performance on a grand scale that Steffan wasn’t quite prepared for. He needed something, some sort of explanation of what was going on to try and sway the council members to give him time to search for evidence himself. Evidence was what he needed. No amount of pleas of innocence would suffice. Suddenly, a stinging thought resonated through his mind. What did Anya truly believe? “Only a few members of this family have knowledge of this.” Steffan paused and cleared his throat. “In the Nemesis, we store—” “Steffan! This is uncalled for. You were not given proper authority to disclose this,” said a council member. “But, this could very well be an explanation here. We’re missing some of the inventory.” “What? How?” “I’m not sure. Can I proceed?” The council member scanned the faces of his colleagues and deliberated for a moment. “Yes, proceed.” “Eilian and I have created Submission injections that are stored in the Nemesis. We provide this at no charge to other lairs’ councils as well. You were not told about these injections because of their power. When administered, it inhibits all of your abilities as a vampire. It was created for the sole purpose of subduing a vampire who was sentenced to punishment or death. Now, in our family, Eilian, Madeline, and I were the only members with access to the serum. I sent Eilian to verify our supply, and he has confirmed that we are missing injectors containing the serum. While I don’t have any proof right at this moment, I believe Madeline is in possession of these injections and has found a way to use them on Alex, to portray what she is claiming.” “Eilian, are we missing the injections as Steffan said?” asked the council member. “Yes. I verified this twice against our inventory log.” “You memorize each entry? Can you confirm that this log has always been in your possession?”

336

Maya DeLeina

“Well, no. I don’t memorize what we record. That’s why we maintain logs. And no, I cannot confirm that it was always been in my possession. The log is kept in Steffan’s personal study.” “The two of you are the ones who maintain this inventory record solely. Eilian, can you confirm with me that there is no possibility whatsoever that the inventory log could somehow be altered by Steffan?” “What? No! Steffan wouldn’t do that.” “But is there a possibility? Can you attest to some sort of process or procedure you two implemented to assure that this couldn’t happen?” “No, I can’t attest to that. I mean, there is a possibility. It’s not under dual control or anything like that. But Steffan wouldn’t do that.” “Please examine Madeline’s office and residences for any evidence of the missing injections and report back immediately,” the council member spoke to two family members who immediately responded and retreated from the room. “We will confer back on this issue once they return. Continue, Steffan,” said the council member. Steffan’s voice carried steadily, in the room. “As far as my connection with Anya, it’s a true connection. I did nothing of the sort like mate abduction, as I am being accused of. I felt that connection. It was so strong. When Ryan couldn’t remember anyone from his human past, I turned to Madeline.” Steffan paused and pointed to Madeline in anger, his voice elevating slightly. “She didn’t share any of the information she’s brought forth when I conferred with her. If I had known there was any connection between Anya and Ryan to suggest they were man and wife, even if that marriage was irrevocably broken before we met, I would’ve never chosen to pursue Anya.” I’m sorry, Anya. I searched my heart, and I don’t think I would’ve pursued our connection if I had known because of this very complication. I couldn’t lay eyes on something that I wasn’t sure was truly mine. It doesn’t change the fact that I still love you with all of my heart. I understand, Steffan. And when our eyes met that day in the studio, don’t you think for one second that I would have left if I’d found out the truth then. I could never let you go once I laid eyes on you.

Veil of Seduction

337

“I believe Madeline withheld this information purposely. She was the only one who could sense my mate match to Anya before we even met. She was the only one who had the ability to withhold information on Ryan. In fact, she had told Eilian that Anise died in a car accident, not by burning in a well as she disclosed to Anya. We didn’t even know Anise was a vampire.” “A vampire? No one in this family has come forth with a turning?” the council member asked. “None to my knowledge.” “Madeleine, you have the ability to sense mate matches between human and vampire. Did Steffan truly have a connection to Anya?” Madeline’s eyes widened and she was less than polished in her response. “Y–Yes, they…um h–had, rather, have…a–a true and strong match.” “Steffan, this still doesn’t explain the matter of the photos of you at Madeline’s home. This is not the manner in which you are supposed to hold your professional dealings. Are these doctored photos?” “No. They are not doctored. That is me. I was at Madeline’s home.” Steffan paused and cleared his throat. “I had a brief relationship with her. The box that I’m looking at contained evidence and photos of a rogue crime scene she was sharing with me.” “Steffan, while it is not part of our laws or creeds, you know that from a professional standpoint, as the leader of this family, you needed to disclose with the council any personal relationships you had with other positions of authority in this family.” “Yes. I realize this, and I apologize. It was a very brief relationship, and I was so caught up in trying to understand her mate-match abilities that it consumed me.” “And what of this altering of information on Ryan? Surely the rest of her staff, most importantly Alex, would’ve never let her withhold information from you. This family has been loyal to you and would’ve alerted you in any case of treachery. And even if your theory holds true on the submission injections, from what you’re saying on the inventory logs and my knowledge on how long the serum can last in the bloodstream, we didn’t have enough serum on hand to have somehow affected Alex for this entire time, let alone, the staff.” “I don’t know what happened there. I can’t explain that part either,” Steffan said with utter dejection. He didn’t know how to explain any of it

338

Maya DeLeina

and certainly did not have time to prepare a well-educated guess as a proposal. “And to the matter of enthrallment, this is a very serious accusation, Steffan. It appears that Madeline could entice the truth out of Alex, but not after the timeframe that you met him privately in his office, to alter him. Do you also deny meeting Alex privately around that time frame?” “No,” Steffan responded softly. “I was down at the station, seeing if Madeline was able to obtain anything else. I just happened to see Alex in his office, and I went. It was just the two of us. It was innocent really. I hadn’t seen him in awhile and we were just chatting…guy stuff, you know? All I know is that I do not have the ability to enthrall and would never subject another to that.” At that moment, the two family members returned from searching Madeline’s personal areas for traces of the injection. “Anything?” asked the council member. “Nothing. We found nothing.” “Steffan, this council has heard enough. Please give us the time to deliberate in private.” The council members exited the room and the crowd started to mumble and converse softly amongst each other. Anya ran to be by Steffan’s side and wrapped her arms around him as she sat in his lap. “What do you think?” Anya asked. “I have no evidence, no proof of anything. Hopefully, I created enough doubt that they’ll allow more time to investigate.” Steffan paused and shook his head as he ran through the proceedings in his head. “Shit, I couldn’t justify how she was able to change and withhold information from us, or how she was able to get Alex to react this way, say those things. I really needed Alex for that part, the real Alex, not the one that was here today.” “All right, other than that?” “I’m not sure. Look, I know in my heart I didn’t do anything wrong and none of what she is saying is the truth. Right now, all I care about is what you think in all of this. You have never said anything to me before. Do you believe in me, Anya?” “As if I ever had a doubt? Of course I believe you. I know the truth. And I know that you didn’t enthrall me or Ryan.” “How do you know that for sure?”

Veil of Seduction

339

Anya placed Steffan’s hand on her heart. “My heart knows you. It knows who you are, what you’re made of. You are my mate.” Anya reached for Steffan’s hand. She planted a loving kiss on it, and moved to caress his hand across her cheek. “And I now realize how many times you tried to enter my mind and were stopped by something powerful.” “What? How do you know that?” “I didn’t want to remember Ryan. I imagined him dead. My heart didn’t want to remember him. So my mind unconsciously put a mental block on anything that connected me and Ryan. I believe you may have been hit with white noise and a bright light every time you tried, right?” “Right!” “I put up such a strong barrier because of the hurt he had caused me, that when I turned, that transferred with me. It wasn’t until I knew the feeling of you entering my mind and having broken through the barrier that night with Ryan that I realized you were trying to enter my mind when I was human. And if you couldn’t break through a mortal’s mind barrier, you wouldn’t even have the power to enthrall a vampire.” “Ouch! That stung!” “Sorry.” “Anya, will you think about what I said earlier, just in case?” “I said I don’t want to talk about it.” Steffan turned his head as the doors opened to let the council back in the room. “That was quick. I guess that’s a good sign. Maybe they want more time to investigate,” Steffan said with a hint of optimism. Anya gave Steffan a brief kiss before heading back to her seat next to Rhys and Brynne. “Steffan Matthews,” the council member addressed Steffan. “Yes?” “The vampires who lived here in Manitou before you never had a formal family unit that included structure, responsibilities, and a governing body. We were left to fend for ourselves and were never truly able to trust in one another. When you came to town with your immediate family and realized you were living among a lair of vampires, instead of retreating, you accepted all of us and came to know our strengths to incorporate us in the family and harness our abilities to the fullest capacity. You were chosen leader of this family because of strength, intellect, purity, and resolve. This

340

Maya DeLeina

governing council is not ten members chosen by the family. It is a reflection of you. Our way of life is all because of your desire to promote civility and equality in our kind, creatures that were never meant to exist in nature and never meant to hold on to any of their human origins. It was your desire to never allow a vampire to exceed or exert his power on another.” The council member paused and rubbed his eyes as if in pain. “And it is because of these values that we have come to our decision.” He paused yet again and looked at all of the members for reassurance and strength to continue. They all nodded in agreement for him to proceed. “Steffan, we have no doubt about your mate connection with Anya, and we believe she was free to be claimed. It appears to have been a strong bond forged between the two of you. You are found not guilty of mate abduction,” he disclosed as cheers roared through the hall. “However,” he interjected, “because of this strong connection you felt to Anya, we believe this was also your downfall.” “No,” whispered Steffan. “There is undeniable evidence that you were aware of the situation between Ryan and Anya. The photographs, marriage certificates, letters…you can’t tell us that a man of your intellect would not demand to see this type of information from Madeleine. We don’t believe she withheld anything from you. I mean, there are pictures of you at her house, looking through this very box.” “But—” “And”—the council member held his hand up to Steffan as a quieting gesture—“If what you claim is true, that you were at her house for a different reason, that in itself is another piece of evidence that shows your mental state, what you are capable of. You were not upholding the best interests of the family by secretly being involved with another member of authority in this family. Your gut should’ve told you that it was wrong, or at least, you should have chosen to disclose everything to the council on the relationship. But you didn’t. You said it yourself. You were too consumed by her abilities. This, in reality, means you were too consumed with your needs rather than the family’s.” He paused and cleared his throat. “What we believe is that you may have been so caught up in your connection to Anya, that it consumed you.

Veil of Seduction

341

We believe that once you knew about Ryan and Anya, even though their union was irrevocably broken, that you were afraid this council would not allow your claim on her, so you did the unspeakable.” “No. I never knew!” Steffan cried out in his defense. “Steffan, we have evidence. We have proof. You taught us to rely on evidence. Believe me, it pains me. It pains all of us to see you on the other side of the council today. But we are continuing what you started. And, with that, we have to forget who you are in this family. It has no bearing on us.” Steffan looked at Anya, her face laced in fear. I love you, Anya, think about what I said. Do it, for me. Anya shook her head, too stunned, too distraught to answer Steffan. “It appears that you have misused your position in this family for your own gain. This goes against every principle you’ve ingrained in us. Not only this, you treated your family as expendable objects. This poor woman and man who sit before you, they have been dealt immeasurable mental and physical anguish. You employed manipulation, coercion and, worst of all, your abilities that extend past normal vampiric traits to pursue your claim.” “No,” Steffan said as he shook his head and started to cry. “It’s not true.” Anya started to cry. “What does that mean?” Brynne and Rhys hurried to console her. Eilian, Catrin, and Rhys looked at each other in shock and horror. “Anya, this is bad.” Rhys’s voice cracked as he whispered in her ear. “Steffan, it is our laws that protect the family from incidents that you have committed and have been found guilty of. You broke one of the most discriminating of our laws, one that you crafted yourself. As you know, no suitable outcome other than what we have chosen will suffice. We have no choice to uphold the law. You are sentenced to the Nemesis to ensure our family’s continuity, well-being, and security. Sacrifice one for the greater good of the family.” “No!” Anya cried and ran to embrace Steffan. “I’m sorry, Anya. I’m so sorry!” Steffan cried in her arms. “You can’t do this! I lost everyone in my family as a human. They were all taken from me. I was alone. In this existence, I have a family in Steffan once again. You can’t do this to me. I can’t go through this again. I’ve suffered enough!” Anya yelled at the council members.

342

Maya DeLeina

They bowed their heads, with heavy hearts. They carried their grief in their expressions. “Please, spare him. Please, I can’t live an eternity without him.” “Anya, they made their decision, love. It’s over.” Steffan embraced Anya tightly. “It’s over. We have to accept it.” Steffan could barely get his words out as his emotions overtook him. “I can’t do this, Steffan! You can’t expect me to go on without you.” Steffan threw his head back in a deep cry, but no sound came out. His head pounded. His chest ached. He drew a deep breath in and wailed in agony. The remaining crowd watched the emotional display play out. The crowd’s reaction varied. Some family members grieved in emotional outbursts while some mourned silently for their leader. “Madeleine, you know you lied here,” Eilian said as Madeline and Ryan walked by. Ryan concentrated his stare on the ground. “I spoke the truth. You don’t even know what the truth is. And that goes for all of you who doubt me. I spoke the truth about this man. Don’t you forget who in this family had enough balls to stand up and speak out against him for sake of this family!” Sneers and comments hurled down from the crowd. “This better be the truth, Madeleine,” a family member said. “You will suffer the same fate if you’ve lied,” said another. Madeline simply smiled back at the crowd and focused her gaze on Steffan and Anya. “Good-bye, Steffan. And, Anya, come by and see me. I’ll be more than happy to find your new mate.” **** Steffan entered the living room with Eilian following closely behind. Eilian walked across the room and took a seat on the couch next to Catrin. His face was solemn, his angst noticeable in his gait. Steffan stood with his hands tucked deep in his pockets, ready to address his immediate family. Anya ran to his side and clung to him. He released one hand and pulled her close to his body.

Veil of Seduction

343

“They have selected tomorrow at midnight for my death proceedings,” Steffan spoke in a grave tone. He closed his eyes, attempting to restrain the flood of tears he desperately wanted to shed, hold back the fear and frustration he wanted to release in a scream. “How could this be happening?” Anya looked at Steffan then addressed the family. “How is this a proper judicial system you have here? There is no testing of evidence, there is no jury, there is nothing but ‘he said she said.’ Where is the ironclad proof?” “Anya, you’re thinking in terms of humans. Remember, vampires have extraordinary powers that, when harnessed by corruption and dishonesty, can disrupt our way of life, destroy our kind, and even wipe out the human race. This is the proper vampire justice. Alex, the photos of me, yours and Ryan’s belongings—that was the proof. Madeleine had the evidence she needed. By all accounts, the system is working, and the law passed down is just.” “But, Steffan, tomorrow? That’s too soon! How do they expect you to get everything in order by then?” Haydn said, shaking his head. “In exchange, they are allowing me time with Anya at our home rather than down below. Eilian had to sign a release order to administer the Submission injections to assure I don’t use my powers for any more wrongdoing. Being free to be with Anya privately more than compensates for the shortened time frame,” Steffan said as he held Anya close, his eyes welling with tears. Anya cried and buried her head in his chest. Releasing him, she said desperately, “Let’s just leave, run away together. We can be far from here come Sunday!” “Anya I can’t. If I don’t return on Sunday, they’ll order one of my immediate family members to take my place for helping with my escape,” Steffan replied, looking down into her tear-stained face. Anya just cried in response. “What can we do for you and Anya? Anything you need from us before Sunday?” Catrin asked. Steffan nodded. “I want to know that you all believe in me. I don’t want to die knowing there’s any shred of doubt that I manipulated all of this. My heart, my love and her love for me is true. I stole her from no one.”

344

Maya DeLeina

“We all believe you. All of us, Steffan, we know what the truth is,” Eilian said on behalf of the family. “I also would like justice, no matter how long it takes. Keep an eye on Madeleine. Be relentless. She has proven, at least to us, that she is evil to her core. If she had the ability to deceive to this extent once, she’ll do it again. Be ready, and make her pay for what she has done.” Steffan choked back tears as he continued, “And lastly, take care of my Anya. She’ll always have my heart, but she also has my blessings to find peace and happiness for herself after I am gone. I want her to search for a new mate match. Help her. Guide her.” “Madeline will pay. I will promise you that, Steffan,” Eilian said. “And the entire family will take care of Anya. Brynne and I can take her in and guide her,” Rhys said as Brynne nodded in agreement. “By the way, they’re taking considerations for leader as we speak. Eilian and I are not among the choices so far. I don’t think they want anyone from our immediate family.” “Well, they’re not thinking of Madeline, are they?” Catrin asked. “She got some chesticles, that Madeline. She nominated herself. So her name is in there along with Alex’s and Ryan’s,” Rhys said, shaking his head. “I don’t know about you guys, but Brynne and I cannot live under Ryan or Madeline’s leadership. We’re thinking about leaving and starting a new family unit if this happens.” “What the hell are you guys talking about? Steffan is still here and you are talking as if he is already dead! Why can’t we focus on doing something to save him?” Anya yelled at Rhys. “We can’t do anything, Anya. I’ve run through all of the possibilities I could. Unless there is some way to show Madeline’s lies to the council before Steffan’s execution, I don’t think there’s anyway to stop this,” Eilian said. “I’m sorry.” A timid voice resonated from the back of the room. “Does anyone want to try talking to the Oracle? She’s here, you know.” The entire family turned around to look at Griffin, who sat on the daybed. “Gramps, you talking about that crazy witch of yours again? That was back in Austria, remember? We’re in Manitou Springs now.” Rhys shook

Veil of Seduction

345

his head and dismissed Griffin’s comment. “Steffan, I think we need to find out…” Griffin interrupted, “You know she’s traveled with us since I met her in Vienna. She has lived among us since we moved. Ecuador, Alaska, and now here, in Colorado, she’s been by our side. I’ve held audiences with her. She doesn’t make absolute predictions. She says the future is too reliant on instinct, influence, and action that cannot be controlled. Rather, she can guide you in the direction of the future you want. Steffan, this is how I knew you would eventually find your mate. She told me so.” “Griffin. Yes, you were always sure of my impending connection when we would speak. Why haven’t you told me about her following us? The last I heard about her was in Austria.” “None of you ask for my opinion or assistance on anything. You assume that because of my age, I can’t relate to modern-day issues. And because I lost my mate that I’m somehow mad. Well, I haven’t gone mad. Everything is still intact,” Griffin said as he tapped his fingers against his temple. Steffan stood in shock, assessing Griffin. Griffin was the oldest among his family members, four hundred and twelve years old to be exact. But his body was suspended in that of a twenty-five-year-old. His features were notably softer than Steffan’s. His blue eyes sparkled against his light-brown hair. His face was round, accented with two deep dimples. He was just as tall as Steffan, but with a slim build. His smile favored one side in a boyish-like innocence. “Griffin, I am sorry. Yes, you have a very a traditional, old-fashioned philosophy on things. Don’t get me wrong, I love that about you, but you don’t budge in accepting the fact that times have changed. Humans are very different in their ways. They think differently, act different. Life is not as simple anymore. Sometimes, it’s hard to get you to see that. I guess everyone took their lead from me and haven’t really included you. For that, I apologize, Griffin. But in the family’s defense, when we first met you, you were acting like you’d lost your mind.” “Oh, Steffan, don’t you know that I did that so you would take me in? You remind me so much of myself when I was your age—spirited, focused, and determined. I knew you were on a path to some sort of prominence and discovery. I also knew you had a soft spot for broken hearts and lost loves. I figured that would be my way in.”

346

Maya DeLeina

“Why me? Why this family?” “I was desperate, lost without my mate. I heard rumors being passed around in Austria speaking of an Oracle and her power to see the future. I went in search of her. No, I was drawn to her. I tracked her down, living in the ice caves deep in the Alps. I asked her about the possibility of a future that would reunite me with my mate once again. She told me the future wasn’t there for that. Instead, she told me about you and your family who’d just taken up residence in the Alps. The Oracle said she held a strong connection to you and your mate. She said I should seek you out, gain acceptance as a family member, for it would hold a future that would suit me.” Griffin paused, and he looked deep into Steffan’s eyes. “Steffan, I just found my mate match weeks ago. The Oracle was right.” “Why didn’t you tell me? We have to celebrate!” “No. You need to see the Oracle. You and Anya together, she had a connection to the two of you before you even found each other.” “But why? Why does she hold a strong connection to me, to us?” “I don’t know. She told me that one day, someone in this family was going to need her help. She also said this person was the only one who could help her in return. I never knew what she meant. I thought it was mindless babble from an old lady. But, with what happened today, I think this is what she was referring to in needing help. You need to see her.” “Where do I find her, Griffin?” Steffan asked, he’s voice shaking in anticipation. “She lives underground in the tunnels of Manitou and Old Colorado City.” “Tunnels? I’ve never seen tunnels on the city maps, and I hand out maps every day to tourists who come into the shop,” Anya said. “Ma’am, you won’t find any of these tunnel systems in any history books or maps. This was a hush-hush system. Basically, the series of tunnels were built to connect brothels to legitimate business. It helped to shield the area of its obvious activities with the miners back in the day. The five-star resort nearby also took notice of the cleaver transportation, and they built their tunnels to link up to these systems as well. Some of the man-made passages connect directly into natural cave systems that lead up into the hills of Manitou.”

Veil of Seduction

347

Griffin smiled and turned to Steffan. “My dear boy, your engineers who built Ambrose Heights here unknowingly tapped into the entire system and didn’t tell you. The Oracle passes through here all the time. I believe she’s waiting for you.” “Griffin, how could you keep this from me?” “As I said, no one ever asked. I figured that I would speak when the time was right. Well, that time is now.” “So how do we enter this system down to her? I’ve been up and down our underground tunnels a hundred times and I don’t know of any other passage.” “You must enter as if you’re going to our passages from Anya’s house. As you are going down the ladder, push against the carved earth between the fourth and third step on the ladder. This will open up another passage.” “Jesus Christ, Griffin, remind me to yell and kiss you later. Anya, let’s go!” Steffan and Anya hurried as they made their way to Anya’s house. “I guess I should’ve warned them about the Oracle’s way of speaking. Oh well, they’ll figure it out,” Griffin said with a smile. “What?” Griffin said innocently in response to the glaring stares of the family.

348

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Twenty-Six The air was stale and humid. With each step they took deeper into the subterranean passageway, the air grew dense and space gave way to tight and confining paths. Anya ran her finger along the walls, feeling the inconsistent textures mildly graze her flesh. Water dripped from the ceiling, seeped from the walls, and pooled under their feet. Dampness was everywhere. Anya’s nose crinkled, repelled by the unpleasant conditions. “Steffan, it reeks down here! It smells like rotten eggs. How could she live here?” “I have no idea. But I think that’s sulfur we smell,” Steffan said as he maneuvered his way around a jagged rock formation that jutted from the earthen floor. “Is your eyesight adjusting to the darkness?” “Yes. It feels like someone is standing behind me with a flashlight, lighting the exact path I want to go on. It’s an odd feeling.” “You’ll get used to it. By the way, what did you bring in that bag of yours?” Anya smiled sheepishly. “Umm, two flashlights. I forgot. Human instinct still in me I guess.” Anya shrugged. “When Griffin was talking, I just started packing stuff in a bag. I also packed Defender and a blanket, just in case.” Anya spoke her last words in a very seductive manner. Steffan smiled at the thought. “Good thinking, my love. Looks like we’re coming to a very narrow passage here. You all right with small spaces?” “I’m all right. But, let’s not linger. I don’t care for the feeling too much.” The tunnel narrowed just as Steffan predicted, forcing them to walk sideways. Anya took off her backpack and held it in her hand. The dampness soaked their backs as they traced the outline of the mineral walls.

Veil of Seduction

349

They moved swiftly, making their way through the crevice of the passageway. “Do you hear that?” Steffan whispered. Anya remained still and held her breath to listen. The harsh echo of the water dripping from the ceiling and pooling on the ground softened and was replaced with a soothing, rhythmic sound of something delicately slicing through a body of water. “I hear it!” Anya said. “Let’s go. I can see some light up through the opening,” Steffan replied. He inched his way through the fissure. Anya followed closely behind. Steffan edged his way to the light, breaking through the gap that opened to a breathtaking expanse. He stood still at the top of the naturally formed stairway, looking down at the water below. Anya made her way through the crack and was awestruck. “Oh my god. This is beautiful.” The water was a brilliant turquoise, varying to an emerald green at its depths. The colors bounced off of the shimmering crystals that suspended like long chandeliers from the ceiling. Waterfalls that seemed to be frozen in time draped the wall. Cluster of icicle formations suspended from the uneven, rocky ceiling above them. A row boat with two oars sat undisturbed in the still, glassy water, tethered to a rock that jutted out of the water like a long spear. Steffan and Anya walked hand in hand down the rocky pathway, taking in the splendor of the subterranean jewel. “I guess we’ll have to take the boat to keep going. There doesn’t seem to be any other way on foot,” Steffan said as he examined their surroundings. “But I thought I heard an oar in the water. Where was that coming from?” Anya said as she bent down, trying to look into the recesses of the tunnel waterway. “Maybe it was her traveling down this system. Let’s see where this goes and maybe we’ll catch up to her.” Steffan entered the water, submerging himself up to his knees. He leaned in Anya’s direction, picked her up, and lifted her into the boat. He lifted himself into the boat and released the rope.

350

Maya DeLeina

Steffan navigated the boat through a series of tunnel passageways at a steady pace. Some of them were long and narrow and others were short with low clearances. The clear crystals that suspended above shifted in shades of green, blue, purple, and amber. The water below glowed as if an underwater lighting system had been turned on. Anya looked at Steffan as he maneuvered the oars of the boat. He was already looking at her with a deep-seated craving. “Anya, I need to be with you. My body aches for you,” Steffan said as he slowed his rowing motion. “Me, too. It’s all I can think about. This mate claim, it’s so strong. Why is it like that?” Steffan shrugged. “By nature, we are carnal, very primal creatures designed to act on instinct alone to satisfy our basic needs for blood and sex. We’ve tried to redesign our makeup in order to achieve some hint of humanity, but in mate claims, instinct has too much dominance to be ignored.” “But, we need to find the Oracle, see if she can help us. We only have two days.” “That’s exactly it. We only have two days left with each other. I need to be with you now. It’s overriding everything else right at this moment. She is here. We’ll find her. Please, Anya, listen to what our bodies are telling us.” Steffan signaled with his chin while his muscular arms directed the boat. “Look, there’s a clearing right there. I’m going to stop.” **** Steffan looked deep into Anya’s eyes as he laid her down on the blanket. He cupped her face, his trailing fingers tracing her lips. He slowly unbuttoned her shirt as tears welled in his eyes. Anya’s tears followed, trickling down the side of her face. Steffan exposed her breasts and lowered his head to gently kiss her. He savored the taste of her flesh, the texture of her nipple in his mouth. He shook as his heartache deepened. He lifted himself to hover above Anya. The sight of her tearful expression set his emotions to spill out in an intense anguish. “I know. Anya. I know.”

Veil of Seduction

351

“They can’t take you from me, Steffan. I will end my life if it comes to that. Everyone I have ever loved, I had to live through their death. I won’t do it with you. I can’t.” “I was afraid you were going to say this. Anya, I don’t know what’s after this place for us. I don’t know where death leads. I know you don’t believe in heaven and hell, god or devil, but for me, I believe. I’ve tricked death once. I don’t know what that means for me wherever I travel to. I’m scared. I can’t have you face that, too.” “I’ll go with you, at the same time. We’ll be together.” “I want to be selfish and say yes, come with me. But, Anya, I have to go alone. I made you into what you are now to be with me and look at where it got you. I can’t do any more harm to you. You have to stay and find happiness and peace. You deserve it. Do this for yourself.” “Don’t talk right now, just make love to me.” Steffan kneeled on the ground between Anya’s legs and removed her khakis and underwear. He stood up and removed his shirt and khakis, bearing his entire body to Anya. He came down slowly and covered her body. Anya opened her legs wide to accept all of him. “Anya, thank you for letting me love you. However brief this was for us, you will always be a part of my heart, no matter where I go from here.” Steffan positioned himself and slowly entered Anya, leaning his forehead against hers. He stretched her arms above her head and laced his fingers in hers. He pumped deep into Anya, his tears escalating in the moment. “I wish I could have your babies,” Anya said tearfully. Steffan melted at the thought and closed his eyes tightly. He captured her mouth in his and seized all of her, everything she had to give. The moment between the lovers was surreal. Every touch, breath, whisper, and emotion transcended the act itself. They savored and cherished each detail of their exchange, desperately clinging to the present that would linger in their memories long after their separation with Steffan’s death. Their naked bodies lay pressed against each other, the serenity of their lovemaking radiating around them. A slight movement near the water caught Steffan’s eye and sent him into a quick panic.

352

Maya DeLeina

“Oracle!” Steffan sat up and reached for their clothing to shield their bodies. The Oracle stood tall, balancing in the row boat. She was cloaked in a heavy, white robe that was stained and ragged. The wide hood relaxed on her head, framing her misshapen features. She was bald, her face elongated, distinctly absent of any eyebrows or eyelashes. Her clouded-white pupils darted the length of her eye, barely visible against the brilliant white of her eyes. She lifted her feeble hand to feed the purewhite owl that sat on her shoulder “Uoy dnuof em!” spoke the Oracle. “Excuse me?” Steffan said, trying to make out the language being spoken. “Eht emit si ereh.” “I–I can’t understand what you’re saying. I don’t know what language you’re speaking,” Steffan replied. “Tel em ees ouy,” she said as she floated from the boat and drifted to where Steffan and Anya stood. Steffan turned his back to her as he hurried to put on his pants. Anya grabbed the blanket and wrapped it around her body. “Tsuj sa I derebmemer.” The Oracle smiled as she stood in front of Steffan. “I don’t know what you’re saying!” Steffan said in a frustrated tone, shaking his head. “Wait!” Anya said as she clung to the blanket. “She’s talking backward! Anise would always do that to drive me nuts when we were kids! We would be in the car and she would read off road signs backward, like deeps timil or pots.” “Deeps Timil? Pots? What?” “Speed limit. Stop. She’s talking backward, Steffan!” The Oracle turned her head abruptly in Anya’s direction and smiled. “Yrev evitpecrep, ym raed.” She moved in front of Anya and lifted her frail hands out. “Anya?” Steffan said, uneasy because of the closeness. He didn’t know what to expect. It’s all right, Steffan, I think she is trying to tell me something. Anya consoled Steffan in his mind.

Veil of Seduction

353

**** The Oracle’s hand shook in front of Anya. Her ghostly eyes rolled feverishly in her head. Her hands were ice cold as she cupped Anya’s face. Anya felt a sharp, chilling sting, and she moaned in pain. Steffan moved to pull the Oracle’s hand from Anya. “Stop! You’re hurting her!” Her hands and arms didn’t budge. They were like statues, frozen to Anya. Random images flickered in Anya’s mind, reflections that transferred from the Oracle that pieced together a series of events. Subtle details, the quality of the recall seemed to point to incidents that happened many years ago. Anya felt Steffan enter her mind and his body went still. They gasped at the imagery, not quite placing those involved. All of a sudden, the images stopped, and a clear voice resonated in their psyche. You are the one with the power. I have waited years for us to find each other. The power to do what? Anya asked inwardly. Undo what has been has done to my body. How? Anya, that night when you turned my hair blonde, that was biokinesis! The kinetic energy you acquired allows you to move inanimate objects, inhibit movement in living tissue, and I believe it allows you to control genes inside the body. I think that is what she wants. Steffan joined the inward conversation. Your bond is stronger than I expected, the voice responded. You could hear Steffan? Anya asked. Yes. What he said, is it true? Is that what you need me to do for you? Yes. Restore my speech, my human body. But how? Concentrate. You will know how. They stood still as their inner communication broke, preparing for Anya’s body incursion.

354

Maya DeLeina

Anya focused, opening her mind’s eye. She envisioned the power of her energy flowing to the Oracle. The energy sank deep into her arm. Probing for a viable vein, the energy dispersed into slivers that attached to her cells like magnets, embedding within the DNA. Anya visualized what her body was telling her to do instinctively to restore the Oracle’s natural structure. Suddenly, the Oracle fell to her knees. “Oracle!” “My name is Chariana,” the Oracle said as she remained looking down, gasping for air. “This is Palmer.” She tapped her shoulder. Palmer, the pure-white owl, blinked his big, golden eyes and cocked his head to one side, looking up at Anya and Steffan. “You did it, Anya! She is not speaking backward anymore!” Steffan said, stunned and amazed at Anya’s biokinesis ability. “Thank you, Anya.” Chariana stood tall and looked at Steffan and Anya. Her eyes sparkled in a deep-hazel color while her other features had no visible change. “I didn’t do it. Look, except for her eyes, her body did not transform at all,” Anya said in disappointment. She began to feel a bit woozy and looked over at Steffan to see if he noticed her uneasiness. He didn’t seem to pick up on her slight discomfort. Anya explored his mind. He was preoccupied, preparing for the arsenal of questions he had for this mysterious woman who stood before them. “No. You did do it. I can feel it inside me. By the next full moon, my body will revert like clockwork, but this time, I won’t be transformed back into this,” Chariana said as she stood and fanned out her robe. “When is the next full moon?” Steffen asked. “In one week,” replied Chariana. “What do you mean revert back?” Anya tried to retain her composure as her dizziness intensified. “Each full moon, I get to return to my body as it was when this spell was put on me. I go above ground, watching all of you, making sure all of the events fall into place as they should. I exert my influence only when I sense it is needed. All in all, I have been bidding my time. By the waning gibbous moon, my body transforms back to this creature’s shell and I retreat underground.”

Veil of Seduction

355

“I don’t understand. Griffin referred to you as the Oracle. He said you’ve been following my family since Vienna. That was almost forty years ago. What are you? What’s our connection? What exactly were those images that you were transferring to us? Who did this to you?” Steffan shot questions at her left and right. “It was thirty-two years to be exact since I first met you,” Chariana replied. As if instructed by an unforeseen force, she closed eyes. Under her lids, they were rapid in movement. When she opened her eyes, she looked intently at Anya and Steffan and then navigated the room. “Is there anyone else with you? I’ve always sensed there would be three of you.” “No. It’s just us,” Steffan answered, looking at Anya with confusion, “What did you sense in the third person?” Anya couldn’t mask her ailment any longer. As soon as Steffan’s gaze left hers, she dropped to her knees, finally accepting that the nausea was overtaking her body. “Anya!” Steffan cried out and kneeled by her side. “What’s wrong?” “I don’t know. I feel dizzy.” “Steffan, get her dressed and come with me to the boat. We will need to get her to the cavern,” Chariana said, kneeling in front of Anya, brushing the hair from her face.

356

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Twenty-Seven “Are you sure I can’t manage that for you?” Steffan asked as Chariana maneuvered the boat’s oars. He sat back, cradling Anya. “I may look old and feeble, but Anya actually restored my body inside. I’m strong. I’m young. I’m twenty-two years old again. Believe me, I’m stronger than I look. Just concentrate on her.” Steffan cradled Anya in his arms. He ran his hand gently through her hair to relax her. “Where are you taking us?” “Deep in one of the caverns here, there’s an aquifer that she should drink from.” “What makes you think the aquifer is going to help her?” “Because when I go through my body shifts, I am plagued with a sickening nausea. When I first came here, I heard the locals talk about the water down in these caverns having medicinal properties. This is what the spigots tap into all along Manitou, why the tourists flock here year after year. I started drinking from it and it immediately cleared up my ailment.” “How does it do that?” “I don’t know. It is years of rainwater and snow that melted from the mountain that seep through rock fractures, penetrating deep into the earth. It becomes mineralized in the limestone cavern. I mean, it’s totally free of any type of contamination, man-made or atmospheric. When you think about its origin, it’s the purest consumption of nature there is.” Chariana paused and leaned toward Steffan. “You moved us to a very special place. Thank you.” “I moved you? Look, you have to start giving me some answers here. I don’t understand much of what’s going on. What is our connection?” “I’ve been with your family ever since Vienna. It all started when we met.” “Where? I don’t remember you.”

Veil of Seduction

357

“I was an exchange student at the University, studying music. At nights, I would join other students and we’d perform as street musicians for money. I was out late one evening. All the other musicians already left. I didn’t want to leave until I made enough to pay for food for the next day. I didn’t even see you coming down the street, but there you were, watching me. You told me I played like an angel. You asked me how much I made a week. When I told you, you said you would double that amount if I promised to stay off the streets. When I agreed, you paid me and told me to visit the manager of the hotel the next evening, and—” “You were hired as their lobby musician. I remember.” Steffan smiled and nodded, recalling the young woman he’d watched that night, mesmerized by her eloquence and grace on the violin. But that wasn’t the first time he’d laid eyes on her. For many nights, he traveled down from his castle in the mountains and took to the cobblestone streets. And there she stood, on the corner, lacing the cold night with the sweet beauty of her music. He also remembered the overwhelming feeling of satisfaction he had with the slight enthrallment he had placed on the hotel manager, convincing him that he was in immediate need of a musician to entertain guests. He had a pleasing taste as well, not bad for a late-night snack. They glided through the labyrinth of passages, Chariana directing the boat through with relative ease. The last tunnel was dark and narrow, the boat barely making it through. The darkened path led to a spacious clearing, a pocket in the earth, deep underground that extended high and wide. The walls looked like melted wax dripping from the sides of a pillar candle. The air was noticeably warmer. Chariana guided the boat to the rock formations and tethered it. “We’re going to go up past these rocks here, the aquifer sits right beyond the opening,” Chariana said as they exited the boat. Steffan carried Anya in his arms as they climbed the natural grade of the cavern, slipped through a fissure in the wall, and came upon the pool of water. Chariana had cups already situated on a rock that served as a table. Around the table sat flat-topped boulders, perfect seating for the table. Steffan sat Anya down on one of the rocks as she continued to lean her head against his chest. Chariana leaned over the edge and pulled up a rope that

358

Maya DeLeina

held a bucket at the end. She dipped the cup in the bucket and collected the spring water for Anya. “Force yourself to sit up and drink this slowly,” Chariana said to Anya, handing her the cup. Anya sat up and took a small sip, testing the taste as it hit her lips. “This is good,” Anya said in a weak voice, “What do you think it tastes like? I hear everyone describe it differently,” Chariana inquired. “It has a mild sweetness. Hints of carbonation.” Anya paused and took another sip and swallowed. “There is a metallic finesse, but it is refreshing. And my nausea is subsiding.” “Better then?” Chariana asked. “Getting there. Thank you.” “I still can’t believe it is you,” Steffan said, shaking his head in disbelief. “I met you thirty-two years ago, when you were in your twenties. By all accounts, you should be in your early fifties now.” “But I look much older, decrepit, and deformed right? Remember, it’s only my shell, from the curse. Anya restored my cells, and once I revert for the last time, you’ll see my true self.” Steffan stammered, frustration closing in on him. “I still don’t get all of this. Just start at the beginning. Tell us everything. Don’t leave anything out.” “Like I said, I was an exchange student at the university. I left my hometown in Montreal to study abroad. I was awarded a music scholarship. But honestly, the scholarship was just the means. I needed to get away— away from my parents, away from everyone in that town who looked at me they way they did because of my abilities.” “What abilities?” Anya asked. **** “I have…” Chariana paused and looked at Steffan and Anya, their gaze burning on her. Forty years ago, when she’d revealed this, she’d been met with cynicism and indignation. Her parents had admitted her to a barrage of clinics, hoping

Veil of Seduction

359

to cure her mental disorder. But her audience was now with vampires. They had to understand. They had to believe. She chose her words carefully. This was the key to maintain their divine path. “…knowings of the future.” Chariana continued. “I can pick up a thought and transform it immediately into energy, sensing a past, present, or future. I can channel energy, focus on a life path to tell you what you need to know to get you to where you need to be. Sometimes, this isn’t always what you expect to hear or want to hear.” “What exactly are you?” Anya asked. “An intuitionist, an HSP,” Chariana responded. Steffan shook his head. “HSP?” “Highly sensitive person. That was how the doctors categorized my behavior traits.” “So, you are in fact, human, but with heightened senses, awareness, and abilities?” Anya asked. Chariana smiled at Anya’s obvious acceptance of what she’d just revealed. “Yes, I’m human by all accounts. But my body doesn’t age through daily processes like everyone else. It is all due to this spell. Aging only becomes a natural process on my body when I revert to my true form. And I only remain that way for less than twenty-four hours once a month.” Chariana’s look turned somber as she spoke quietly, “This curse, I’d never wish it upon anyone. In its origin, it is crafted to slowly devour the victim’s sanity, even causing many to take their own lives. This was only meant to be cast as a justifiable form of punishment. I never deserved this.” Chariana sighed and rubbed the length of her elongated face. “Who did this to you?” Steffan asked sternly. “My roommate. She was an exchange student from Montreal, too. That’s why the school paired us in the dorm assignments. I soon realized that she and her family were Wiccans and practiced witchcraft. Her family was white magic sorcerers, and I was intrigued by their healing spells. I dabbled a little with it, and she taught me a lot. When she realized I had the ability to sense the future, she begged and pleaded with me to teach her how to harness that ability. But I couldn’t. I didn’t know how. She was frustrated with me and ended up practicing dark witchcraft. Black magic. It went against everything her family taught her.” Chariana shook her head as she

360

Maya DeLeina

recalled the incidents. “Things got really bad between us when I met Aleksanteri. I picked up on her energy shift almost immediately. I started to see nothing but darkness and destruction in her future. When Aleksanteri and I tried to confront her about it, she kicked me out, and I went to live with him.” “Who is Aleksanteri?” Steffan inquired softly. “Aleksanteri was my life. We had this instant attraction to one another that was so strong. I had dreams about him before we even met. It was you, Steffan, who brought us together.” “Me? I don’t even know who this Aleksanteri is,” Steffan said. “On my first night working at the hotel, I reported to Aleksanteri. He was the night manager. He honestly thought I had made a serious mistake about being employed at the hotel. He tried to tell me that not only was the manager tight with money, he would never hire staff without consulting with him first. He made a brief phone call to the manager, confirmed my employment and I sank into my role as the hotel musician. From that night on, we also sank into each other as well.” Chariana paused, relishing in the memory of Aleksanteri. “As I was packing up for the evening, you drifted past the doors and I screamed at Aleksanteri, That’s him! That is the guy who got me the job! Aleksanteri took one glance at you, and he turned white as a ghost.” Chariana shook her head, reaching back into her memory. “He was intent on catching up with you, obsessed in fact. We followed you through the streets. You moved so swiftly. Some of your movements seemed unnatural. I shook it off, thinking I was just overly tired that evening. Suddenly, you darted up toward the mountains, and I couldn’t see anything in the thickness of the forest. I was giving up the chase, but Aleksanteri insisted that we find out about you. He picked me up, put me on his back and carried me up the mountain as he traced your steps methodically, in the darkness. I had no idea how he was doing it. Through the thick bushes and trees, Aleksanteri moved hastily and pushed through the forest. All of a sudden, we were in a clearing.” “Then what?” “We came upon your castle. It appeared out of nowhere, just plopped down in the middle of the forest. The moonlight cast shadows through the trees that surrounded your home, and the fog suspended right above the

Veil of Seduction

361

steeple. It was so frightening. Despite the creepiness of the place, Aleksanteri insisted that we sit and watch you from the cover of a low rock wall that surrounded the perimeter of the castle. All of sudden, he somehow knew you were about to sense us so he shielded us. I didn’t know what that meant at the time, but as soon as he did it, I picked up on your energy and Aleksanteri’s energy. That energy told me you both were vampires.” Anya turned to Steffan. “Did you know Aleksanteri?” “No.” Steffan shook his head. “I thought I knew of all the vampires in the town. I can’t believe I couldn’t sense you two watching me. I thought my shield detection abilities were much stronger than this!” “Once everything was revealed up on the mountain that night, Aleksanteri took me back to the hotel so we could talk. I was hysterical. I had no idea he was a vampire. Somehow, I sensed it with you, Steffan, but nothing ever registered in me with Aleksanteri. Anyway, he wanted to know more about you. He said that he had a good sense about you and was even thinking about introducing himself as one of the resident vampires. He was intrigued with the family unit you brought to the area and was especially curious about your generous nature. I told him what I sensed of your future for you and your family, and he was captivated.” “What did you sense?” “At that point, I sensed that you were going to be very powerful among your kind. Within the next minute, your future altered right before my eyes.” “How? Why would it alter? “She was there. Aleksanteri and I were so deep in our discussion that we didn’t even realize she was there. She heard our entire conversation.” “Who? Who was your roommate?” Steffan demanded. “Madeline,” whispered Chariana “M.J. was your roommate! What? When I met her after moving to Manitou, she told me she was a newborn vampire who was turned when her daughter was in infant. In fact, Lisa’s no more than sixteen years old now.” “God help whomever she’s trying to pass off as her daughter! All I know is she is vampire all right. But a newborn, not exactly. That night, after she heard our conversation, she insisted that Aleksanteri turn her into a vampire. By this time, she was obsessed. She wanted power and control in any form she could find it. Even if it meant becoming a vampire, she’d do it. To her, immortality was the ultimate power. When Aleksanteri refused to

362

Maya DeLeina

turn her, she cast one of her dark magic spell on us, making us witnesses to the Immortalritual.” “What in the hell is Immortalritual?” asked Steffan. “She summoned spirits with her dark magic. They are believed to be the direct servants of the devil. They taught her that if a dark witch committed suicide during the full moon phase, the spirit could not pass into the next world, be it a heaven or hell. Instead, the witch would be bound to earth, in the only immortal form imaginable. A vampire.” Steffan looked overwhelmed with the shock. “I never knew this existed! In all of my years, I have never heard of this ever being documented!” “Well, document this, because I have witnessed it. It was horrible. The dark spirits commanded her to drain her body of her blood. She stood, cutting herself, screaming in pain, collecting her blood in buckets, pots, anything she could grab from the hotel’s kitchen. She followed every sick and twisted command they gave her.” Chariana paused, her stomach churning in pain with the recollection. “I remember her eyes. They were black as night. They were bloodcurdling. That’s how I knew she was no longer human. Once she turned, the spell she cast on us was complete. I turned into this, and Aleksanteri’s image was altered and he was brainwashed to serve as her companion instead of mine.” “So she is pure evil,” concluded Anya. “She was born from evil. Steffan, when she found out what I sensed of your future, she was obsessed. Her plan was to allow you to go on with your destined path in life, plant herself within your family, and steal the power from you when the time was right. I believe that time has come. She’s executed her plan to destroy you, correct?” Chariana asked. “Funny you say executed…that’s exactly what she’s trying to have done to me. But what the hell are you implying? What’s Madeline going to do after my death? This is not simply revenge because I used her?” Steffan’s breath was ragged and fear etched in the lines of his face. “You never used her Steffan. She enthralled you. But, you were strong and broke through her cast. It ruined her original plan. So she went back to work, crafting another way.” “What is her plan?” Steffan demanded.

Veil of Seduction

363

“Think about it. Vampires are the strongest beings to roam the earth. Ruling vampires would mean overtaking the human race. And therein lays the true, ultimate power. Control all that inhabits the earth.” “Cacha! Is that what she wants? Why didn’t you tell me in Vienna?” “I couldn’t. Steffan, the future is predestined paths woven with the influence force of the relationships that touch your life. Each time I wanted to tell you, I never sensed the future with a different outcome. You see, certain events, incidents, influences needed to occur so I could introduce myself at the exact time where I could sense a different outcome.” Chariana reached for Steffan’s hand. “I’m sorry, Steffan. It had to be this way so I could save the future as it was originally planned for you and everyone around you. Of course I wanted nothing more than to run to you and tell you in Vienna. It festered inside me. But I’ve been watching over you and your family ever since.” “And how does Griffin fall into place in all of this? I mean, it’s Griffin after all, that you held audiences with, instead of me.” “Once she cast her spell on me, I realized that I could no longer sense energy directly from you. I needed a medium, someone who could channel your thoughts and energy to me. This is when I met Griffin. This is why I set him on the course to join your family so he could serve as my mirror to you.” “I guess the influence force plays a strong role in our ultimate destiny.” “Yes. Influences are a key role, they’re what cause you to stay or stray from your life’s path. Take our influence sharing for example. I knew your fated mate was in Colorado. I needed to influence you to move here to Manitou in order to cross paths with her. I am the one who transferred this to you through Griffin. Once I moved here to be close to the family, my path crossed with Ryan. I sensed a strong connection to you and your family in him, but I couldn’t determine what the exact link was. So I studied him for a few years and figured out the path. I influenced him with an enticement. I enticed him with Ambrose Heights.” Chariana turned to Anya. “This man, his heart has never belonged to you. He belonged to no one. Material possession, status, money—this is his main focus in life. There is no deviation in his future. No matter what influences come into his life, it’s always the same outcome. More this, more that. It will be his eventual downfall.”

364

Maya DeLeina

Anya nodded. “With my necessary influences in place, I allowed Ryan’s path lead as predetermined. It was Anise that I had to put most influence on.” “You knew Anise?” Anya gasped. “Yes, she came down here in search of me. She found out about me from Dominic.” Steffan took in a deep breath. “Dominic! So he turned Anise!” “Michelle’s Dominic was involved with Anise? Oh my god, this is just too much!” Anya said, shaking her head. Chariana sat next to Anya and wrapped an arm around her shoulder. “Anya, when Anise came to see me, she had already left Dominic and entered back into a relationship with Ryan. She was pushing for him to leave you and was frustrated by his indecision.” “What did she want from you?” “She wanted to know her future. She was so unsure about her choices. I tried altering different events in my head for her, to see if I could steer her in a direction with a happier ending, but they all had the same outcome. Death. I had to tell her about Dominic, that he would find her and destroy her. Then I told her about Ryan, all the other women and his eventual plans to funnel the money from her, just as he did to you. But with you, I told her about your true heart and the love you still held for her even though you were apart. That’s when she devised her plan. She would make a will and name you as beneficiary so you could inherit all that Ryan took from you. She hoped this would help ease the pain of what she did to you and get even with Ryan.” Anya cried, “Anise!” Steffan and Chariana sat on either side of Anya, embracing and comforting her in light of the discovery. “Chariana, you need to come with us to face the council. They just ordered Steffan to be executed because of Madeline. You are the proof we need!” Anya spoke feverishly as she wiped back her tears. “Even with us together now, I still haven’t sensed the outcome changing. There is something we missed. An event, a connection, a person—I can’t tell. I think it has to do with only the two of you being here rather than the three I’ve sensed all this time.”

Veil of Seduction

365

“I don’t know who the third person can be. Where is the connection with this person—with me, you, or Anya?” Steffan probed. Chariana closed her eyes and concentrated. “It’s you, Anya.” “Me?” Chariana opened her eyes. “Yes. Are you still feeling dizzy?” “A little. Not as bad as before though.” “The dizziness is a reaction to the energy expenditure you just had in order to do your biokinesis on me. This also diminishes your abilities temporarily and makes you vulnerable. Quick, give me your hand before we lose this opportunity.” Chariana grabbed Anya’s hand. “An opportunity for what?” Anya asked as she watched Chariana’s eyes dart back and forth. “To see what’s inside of you, what is unique to you, why you’re the one.” Chariana held on to Anya’s hand, her body vibrating with the exploration. “Oh yes. How interesting. That’s it!” “What?” Anya and Steffan said together. “Anya. Your mother and father went through a radical in vitro process to conceive you and Anise.” “They did? They never said anything to us about that.” “Your father was a scientist, right?” “Yes. He worked for the CDC.” “When your mother and father found out they had infertility issues, they turned to in vitro. Your father was able to convince your mother that they would be the perfect candidate to test the new process in development, creating an embryo from your mother, father, and a third person. The process would reduce the chances for infectious diseases or inherited genetic defects. Anya, your DNA makeup is not dictated by natural law.” Chariana paused and shook her head. “Something inside of me is telling me the person that has a connection with you has something to do with the DNA anomaly. That’s all I can get at this point. Is this making any sense to either of you?” “Steffan, its Brynne! She has to be the third person! She is the only one with an altered DNA like me!” Anya turned to Chariana. “But how is Brynne going to help?”

366

Maya DeLeina

“I don’t know. I only sensed the three of you, but I don’t know how everything plays in together.” “All right. You are coming home with us, to meet Brynne and see what you can sense from her. Then we can get you ready for the council meeting,” Steffan commanded as he slung the backpack over his shoulder and reached down to lift Anya back to the boat. “We need Aleksanteri, too. The council already took him as proof consideration. We need to break his spell, reveal his true form and the events that actually happened so they can dismiss him as a credible evidence source,” Chariana stated. “Wait! Aleksanteri is Alex? Our Alex?” Steffan asked. “Yes. And from what I learned over the years, especially with the two of you, Aleksanteri and I are fated mates. Anya, I will need your help. I can break his spell, but I want you to restore his body like you did with me. And, I need your help with this.” Chariana reached for Anya and cupped her face with her hands to transfer an image that had plagued her mind ever since being restored by Anya. **** Steffan rummaged through Anya’s backpack. “Would you happen to know what time it is? Anya and I don’t have our watches on and being underground is clouding my perception of time,” Steffan asked Chariana. “It’s just past noon, why?” Chariana responded. “We’ve been down here for almost eight hours. Anya, we need Defender.” “Oh yeah, sunlight. That’s right,” Chariana said as she watched Anya kneel next to Steffan. Steffan retrieved two syringes and placed them on the backpack. “May I?” Steffan asked Anya as he pushed up on her sleeve. Anya nodded in confirmation and Steffan injected a dose of Defender into her vein. “What is the fastest way out of here?” Steffan asked Chariana as he injected himself in the arm.

Veil of Seduction

367

“We can take the boat down to the end of the of this natural cave system. The man-made tunnels start there and can lead us all the way down to Old Colorado City.” “Steffan, when we can get a signal from the cell, call Rhys and tell him to meet us with the Hummer at the old pottery warehouse on Highway 24. We need to head up to the Fossil Beds.” “We’re headed to Florissant? Why?” “Chariana projected the image of an old homestead. I remember seeing exactly what she projected in my mind out there. Madeline hid Alex there. I am sure of it.”

368

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Twenty-Eight Anya sat with the family, dividing her time between watching Eilian’s panic and Chloe’s reaction to him. “Steffan, it’s almost midnight, where are they?” Eilian asked, pacing the living room of Steffan’s home. “I’ll have to escort you down in a few minutes.” Chloe sat on Michelle’s lap in the chair, her stare buried in examination of Eilian when she suddenly jumped off. “Here. Mommy said this helps you when you’re scared. You can hold it.” Chloe extended her hand to Eilian’s and placed the quartz crystal in his palm. Eilian smiled. “Ddiolch.” “Huh?” Chloe crinkled her nose at Eilian then turned to Michelle, climbing back up onto her lap. “He talks funny.” “Honey, he said ‘thank you’ in a different language,” Michelle said, smiling at her daughter. Steffan stood in front of the mirror and smiled as he watched Chloe in the reflection. “Eilian, they will be here. Chariana had to take Alex down to the cavern. He wasn’t doing too well after Anya restored him.” Anya stood up and reached for Steffan’s sport jacket that hung on the back of a chair. She moved behind Steffan at the mirror, slipping the jacket over his T-shirt and jeans. Steffan had asked Anya to select his attire for this evening, something she would like to see him in. While she would’ve rather seen him without a single stitch of clothing on, she’d settled for an outfit that she could easily slip him out of as soon as everything was over. If it wasn’t for the hope of reversing the council’s decision, however, selecting his death attire wouldn’t have been a task she would be delighted to partake in.

Veil of Seduction

369

“Giggle monster!” Steffan said as he turned around, bent down on one knee, and spread his arms wide open. Chloe jumped from Michelle’s lap and giggled as she ran to Steffan. He scooped her up and lifted her in the air. Chloe’s laughter was contagious. Anya stood there and smiled at their exchange. Since earlier that day in the cave, she couldn’t shake the thought of having a baby with Steffan. Among everything else she was trying to deal with, the desire to be impregnated by the man she loved had begun to tear at her heart. And it wasn’t until this moment, seeing Steffan and Chloe together, that she saw him in a different light. She saw him as a father. Her heart ached, knowing this would never be in their future. Steffan caught Anya’s sadness, looked up and fixed on her gaze. He gave her a knowing look and smiled. “Okay, kiddo, it is way past your bedtime. Let’s get you upstairs,” Michelle said. She stood up and walked over to Chloe who clung to Steffan’s neck. Steffan kissed Chloe on the forehead and placed her in Michelle’s arms. Anya followed up with a kiss on her cheek. “Uncle Steffan, I’m gonna see you tomorrow, right?” Chloe asked. Her eyes were innocent but expressive. Everyone silenced and turned to look at Steffan, awaiting his response. After a brief pause, Steffan answered confidently, “Of course, honey, why do you ask?” “I want to play Superman again.” Steffan laughed. “We will play Superman tomorrow, and the next day and the next.” Steffan smiled as he tapped his finger on her nose. Anya and Steffan darted glances at each other as Michelle headed upstairs with Chloe in hand. “Night, Chloe,” everyone said in unison. Chloe kissed her hand and blew the kiss across the room. Steffan turned to Anya and embraced her tightly. I know, my love. I know. I imagine it, too. He kissed her gently on the forehead and wrapped his arm around her shoulders as he guided them toward the window.

370

Maya DeLeina

“So, Anya, biokinesis huh?” Eilian said, shaking his head in amazement. “That is simply remarkable. You and I need to work in the lab together, maybe you can help me with extending Defender.” “I would like that,” Anya replied. “She can help, after,” Steffan added. “After what?” Anya asked. “Later. You’ll see.” Eilian sat back down on the couch next to Catrin. “You know, I would feel a lot better if Rhys were here right now. Was it really necessary to have him and Brynne stay with Chariana and Alex? Madeline doesn’t even have a clue that she’s here.” “I’m not leaving anything to chance. Besides, Chariana wanted to meet Brynne, to see how she fits into the picture,” Steffan said, gazing down at the sparkling lights of the city. “Steffan, are you sure it’s not too late? Will the council be willing to listen? Should we have not called a meeting prior to this?” Catrin asked. Releasing Anya, Steffan turned to Catrin. “With the evidence we have, they’ll have no choice but to listen. Remember, Chariana’s sense of the future right now is hazy.” “She used the term in limbo to be exact,” Anya interjected “Yes, in limbo. Because of this, we need the element of surprise on our side. I couldn’t risk Madeline getting wind of Chariana’s presence. One wrong move and I could be gone in a matter of hours.” Steffan sat on the daybed and patted his knee for Anya. Anya sat on his lap sideways wrapping one arm around this neck. They rested their foreheads on one another. “No wrong moves. None. You can’t be taken from me,” Anya whispered. Michelle made her way down the stairs and entered the living room. “She went down quick.” “How did you manage that?” Anya asked. “I told her the faster she fell asleep, the sooner she could see Uncle Steffan and play Superman.” Michelle winked at Steffan and leaned in to hug him and Anya. “How are you guys holding up?” “We’re managing,” Steffan whispered softly. “Oracle!” Griffin said with enthusiasm and ran to Chariana as she entered the room.

Veil of Seduction

371

Rhys, Alex, and Brynne entered the room and maneuvered around Griffin as he hugged Chariana. “Uoy era gnuoy! Uoy era lufituaeb! Rouy seye, did Ayna od taht?” “Yes, Griffin. I’m young. I’m beautiful, and Anya fixed my eyes. She fixed my speech pattern as well. You don’t have to speak backward. By the way, my name is Chariana.” “Anya! My lady, you are good!” Griffin exclaimed. “Good is an understatement. Come look what she did to my Aleksanteri!” Chariana grabbed Griffin’s hand and led him into the living room. “Everyone, I would like you to officially meet Aleksanteri,” Chariana said as she wrapped her hands around Alex’s waist. “Feeling better?” Steffan stood and shook Alex’s hand. “Yes. I couldn’t manage to say much when you guys found me. It’s good to see you again after all this time,” Alex said as he held Steffan’s firm handshake. “And I am sorry for the predicament I’ve left you in. I was incapacitated for quite a long time.” “I understand, Alex. We’ll get this sorted out,” Steffan said as he nudged Anya closer to Alex. “I believe someone else was worried about you, too.” Anya moved slowly up to Alex, reaching for his face. She remembered the handsome man who had first walked through the door that day in Madeleine’s office. But what stood before her now was as close to perfection there was, just like all the men of Ambrose Heights. He would make a good Mr. October for that calendar of hers. “Alex, I can’t believe this is really you. I wasn’t too sure of what I was doing. Are you sure you’re feeling all right?” “Anya, I feel great. I have so much to thank you for.” He hugged Anya tightly. “I don’t know of any words that could even begin to express my gratitude for bringing me and Chariana back together,” Alex whispered in her ear. Chariana shook her head as she spoke. “Steffan, I still can’t figure out how Brynne is involved in all of this, but she is definitely the one. I can feel it.” “Chariana told us it has something to do with the DNA linking Brynne and Anya. But Steffan, I drink from Brynne and have never felt the effects

372

Maya DeLeina

of the urban legend out there that she can provide extraordinary powers. I just can’t figure it out,” Rhys said to Steffan, shaking his head. Steffan nodded in response. “As do I with Anya. Look, Brynne will just have to be close by for us to call on her when Anya senses the time is right.” “That brings up a good question. What exactly is the plan here, Steffan? The council will not let everyone in the room. I have to inject you before we head down, and neither of us has the code for the Nemesis since the council changed it,” Eilian stated. Rhys added, “And, we don’t know how these proceedings work. Only you and Eilian were ever involved from our family.” “Brynne, Rhys, Chariana, I want you three to come down and wait outside the Nemesis, but only after the council seals the doors. If they see you in the tunnel any earlier, they may seal off the entire tunnel entrance. As for the proceedings, they’ll allow me to address everyone in the room. I will tell them of the news and just take it from there. If they refuse to listen, Anya will take over and use her kinetics to open the door and force your appearance so you can be heard. Rhys, I need you there to help protect everyone from Madeleine and Ryan. I’m sure they won’t just sit idly by as this unfolds,” Steffan said. Eilian looked at his wristwatch and turned to Steffan with a dreadful look. “Steffan, it’s time.” Anya started to tear up. Steffan moved to the wingback chair and sat down. He pushed up the sleeve of his sport jacket and motioned for Anya with the other arm. Anya kneeled on the floor in front of Steffan and gripped his free hand, lifting it to her forehead. This has to work. They have to listen, Anya said inwardly. Eilian stood on the other side of Steffan, preparing the injection while the family looked on in grief. We will prevail. I promise you that. Promise? I never break a promise. And now, you have two promises out there, one to me and one to Chloe. Once we’re back here, don’t make any plans with the family to celebrate. I’m planning to take you upstairs and celebrate all over your body. My, my. Was that the “after” you were talking about with Eilian?

Veil of Seduction

373

No. That is a surprise. Eilian sunk the long needle deep into Steffan’s arms. His veins pulsed erratically as the serum invaded his system. Steffan closed his eyes. “What will happen to him? Will it paralyze him? How long does this work?” Anya asked. “We developed this to incapacitate vampire abilities. Everything else in him will function as it should. The serum lasts less than three hours. I never tried to extend its potency since the victim would be…” Eilian trailed off and looked down. “Dead,” Anya finished his sentence. Michelle walked over to Steffan. “Steffan, I will see you when you return.” She hugged Steffan and then moved aside to allow the family members to say their good-byes and well-wishes. **** Steffan and Anya walked hand in hand, tightly bound to each other as they made their way to the Nemesis. Their pace was slow. They trailed behind Eilian. Anya’s focus unwittingly settled on her surroundings, her senses capturing every detail of the subsurface quarters. The elaborate honeycomb system of carved-out earth was an engineering marvel. She had toured the area before with Steffan, but couldn’t figure out why she hadn’t given it much thought back then. Maybe learning of the community’s vampiric background alone was more than she could handle at the time. She looked at Steffan in sheer amazement. His preparation, prudence, and dedication for an undertaking of this project were immeasurable. He was a remarkable man. “I can’t believe this.” Anya stopped in her tracks. “You created all of this, not for yourself, but for the entire family.” She released Steffan’s grip and looked him deep in the eyes, holding her hands out to her sides. “Look at this, you’ve taken steps to protect and produce our synthetic composition formula. You created access points not only from the homes here in Ambrose, but throughout the labyrinth maze to allow unrestricted use of the training room and enthrall hall. Then there’s Nemesis, meant to keep the entire family safe and sound. Where is the

374

Maya DeLeina

loyalty in what you’ve done for all of them? Where is the justice? The same family that is reaping the benefits of their leader’s foresight, commitment, and intellect is the same family preparing to destroy you.” Anya shook her head. Steffan sank his hands deep in his jeans pockets. “They’re only doing as I have trained them to do. They’re carrying out everything I would’ve done in the same situation, protecting the entire family by forsaking one that is proven to be a threat.” Eilian spoke from behind Steffan, “Anya, the council is not making this decision without great remorse. No one wants to see this happen. No one wants to believe it. But the evidence was too strong against Steffan. Knowing the council members, they’ll want to listen to this new evidence we have. I think we will be all right.” They made their way down through the tunnel corridors to the Nemesis. As they approached, they observed two council members manning the entry. “I commend you in carrying out your duties as bearer, Eilian. We thank you for your loyalty to this family and upholding our laws and creeds,” one of the council members said to Eilian as he turned to address Steffan. “Steffan, we’re ready for you.” Anya instinctively gasped at the words as he continued. “I trust that you have made your peace with your immediate family and said your goodbyes?” Steffan nodded. “I will still allow a moment for you two to have a last exchange,” stated the council member, nodding at Anya. He led Steffan into the room by his shoulder. Eilian, Anya and the remaining council member followed close behind. The metal door slammed shut behind them with a great force, sounding a deep and sturdy resonance. All three mechanisms locked in place, one right after the other, sealing off the room. The room was dimly lit. Twelve folding chairs meticulously laid out in formation on each side of the room, creating a defined walking path down the middle. Madeline and Ryan quietly sat in the first row. In the next, the council segregated in even groups of four. Two empty seats sat behind the council, intended for Anya and Eilian. The chairs faced the far end of the room where the circle of chambers sat. A lone steel chamber was wheeled

Veil of Seduction

375

out to the forefront, its door wide open, displaying the razor sharp spikes that protruded from the door’s inner frame. The inner chamber was hollow. A distinct clasp mechanism attached to the back of the steel casing. Anya couldn’t help but notice the red and black stains that were etched along the chamber walls and floor. She shivered at the sight and searched Steffan’s mind to settle her fear. There was no connection thread, no noticeable trace of energy from Steffan. All inward connections had been severed between her and Steffan from his Submission injection. Anya and Eilian took their seats as the council member escorted Steffan to the front of the audience. “Please note in the entry the time of 12:07 a.m., and let’s begin,” the council member spoke to the recorder as he turned to address the room. “Tonight, we are all here to witness the chosen fate of Steffan Matthews. His actions, involving manipulation of facts and evidence, intimidation by force, misuse of specialized abilities and deviation of power for personal gain, was heard and judged by this council. Steffan Matthews has been sentenced to death by the Nemesis in accordance with our laws.” He paused and took a deep breath. “Steffan, please remove your jacket and shirt so that I can prepare your body.” Steffan removed his articles of clothing and handed them to the council member. He nodded in Anya’s direction, and she walked forward to retrieve Steffan’s clothes. Steffan turned around, his back on full display for the audience. He folded his hands behind his back and was handcuffed. A large clasp dangled from the handcuffs’ metal chain. The council member turned Steffan around to face the audience once again and doused his chest with a white powder. He rounded his body and generously coated Steffan’s back with the powder. He walked to the steel chamber and gave the floor a heavy dousing. “What is with the powder?” Anya whispered to Eilian. “It’s a biocide absorbent powder. It kills any organism that remains in vampire’s blood to assure that transference to another tissue is not a possibility. It also turns the majority of the bleed out into a gel-like substance to make cleanup a little easier.” “Steffan. Are you ready to address the room and sound your thoughts before your sentence is carried out?”

376

Maya DeLeina

“Yes.” “You have the floor.” “Why are we giving him this opportunity? He may still be able to use his powers right now! He was too powerful in this family to be given the same rights as others who have been put to death before!” Madeline stood and yelled at the council. “Madeline, Steffan will be afforded the same dignities as in any proceeding. Please take your seat and allow him to deliver his address,” the council member directed. Anya’s blood boiled as she watched Madeline. She glanced over at Ryan. As if sensing her, he slowly turned his head to the side and locked eyes with her. His stare was bitter. His face was almost mannequin-like since he’d attempted to mask his blemishes from the lightning strike with makeup. “Council, Ryan, Madeline, Eilian, and my dearest Anya, while I have accepted the judgment handed down by this council, I have remained unchanged in my plea of innocence. I realize that the evidence brought forth was convincing, however, may I be granted time to present the council with evidence of my own to show where the true manipulation lies?” “What is the meaning of this, Steffan? This is quite unorthodox.” “Yes, I realize this, but this…” Steffan started to cough and struggled to finish his sentence. “…Evidence was just revealed a short time ago.” “Steffan, are you all right?” Steffan shook his head as his coughs intensified and his eyes began to tear. A vapor permeated the room, slowly gliding into the air. One by one, the audience began to cough. Eilian’s eyes widened as he realized what was happening. “Anya! Madeline diffused the liquid Submission serum through the air ducts. Our nervous system won’t be able to handle it. We’re going to pass out! Anya, use your kinetics to stop it!” ****

Veil of Seduction

377

Anya concentrated on the mist, but nothing worked. The vapor continued to dance above them, growing heavier as it swirled and mixed with the oxygen in the room. “Nothing is working. I don’t think I can use my kinesis on water or air. It has to be something solid for me to focus my energy on!” Anya screamed as Eilian started to wheeze and dropped to his knees. “Eilian! Eilian!” Anya shook Eilian in panic. She looked around the room at the scene that was unfolding. All around her, the council members were out of their chairs, choking and gagging while she remained unaffected. Anya looked up at Steffan’s panicked eyes as he dropped to his knees. From the corner of her eye, Madeline and Ryan hurried to secure masks to their faces. Suddenly, Ryan ran over to Steffan and kneeled in front of him. “Don’t think I was going to let you pass out. You’ll need to be up for this one. I am about to live up to my name. I will be your family’s new leader, their king. For my queen, I’ll take back my Anya,” Ryan said to Steffan as he secured a mask over his head. “Anya! You’re breathing!” Steffan’s muffled yell projected across to Anya. She was unaffected by the Submission serum being dispersed in the air. “Anya! To your right, look out!” Steffan screamed frantically. Ryan stood and kicked Steffan in the face, knocking him on his back. The force jarred the mask off of Steffan, and he resumed coughing. His was red, his face painfully straining as he gasped for breath. Ryan went into a scramble as the mask sailed across the concrete floor, lodging between the steel chambers that were pushed up against the wall. Madeline hurled her body through the air toward Anya. Her eyes were wild and fierce, burning a deep crimson. She landed on Anya, like a feral animal catching its prey. She straddled Anya’s body as her long demonic hands laced around her neck. “What evidence do you have, huh? Did that witch find you and tell you all about me?” Madeline squeezed her neck, applying more force. Her face contoured in anger, the deep-seated evil inside her morphing her bone structure just under her skin. She screamed like a banshee, in a fit of energy as her nose widened and the bridge crinkled. “Look around you, there’s no

378

Maya DeLeina

one left to hear anything! No one will know that I turned myself into a vampire in Vienna.” “Anya!” Steffan said, gasping for air. “Hurry, stop her movements! Open the door and get out! You know how! You can do it! Save yourself!” Anya concentrated. She could easily apply her energy threads to move inanimate objects and stop movement in living tissue, but to do both at the same time was something she wasn’t familiar with executing. Madeline raised Anya’s head from the floor and slammed it into the ground. A rush of coolness and a painful, prickly sensation concentrated behind her head. She reached behind and her hand was immediately met with marked wetness. She retracted her hand in a panic. It was covered in blood. Suddenly, another sensation ripped through her body. She looked down. Her veins were engorged. The feeling was like a fire travelling just under her skin. It burned and inched its way from her chest up through her neck, wrapping around to settle at the back of her head. This was the first time she had sustained an injury since becoming a vampire. Steffan told her all about their repair mechanisms, but didn’t quite explain how it would feel. She took a deep breath in. What she was feeling was no doubt the black tendrils of her repair mechanisms, creeping along her body, hard at work. Ryan stopped dead in his movements and turned his head in Madeline’s direction. “What did you say? I thought Steffan turned you here in Manitou when your daughter was a baby?” “Lisa is…” Steffan was wheezing, his chest movement amplified as he struggled for breath. “…Not her daughter. I just found out everything. That is what I was trying to tell the council!” Steffan’s eyes were swollen from the vapor, welling in tears. He remained handcuffed and lying on his side, vulnerable and helpless. Steffan labored through his communication with Ryan. “I only moved to Manitou nine years ago. She was already one of us when I met her.” Madeline was furious and hurried in her explanation. “I told you what you wanted to hear! Ryan, I know what you’re made of. Even you can’t deny it. You are just like me! Even if you knew the truth, you would’ve still

Veil of Seduction

379

done all of this to see Steffan overthrown and your reign over this family! I sensed it. I know what’s truly strong in you, what drives you.” Madeline lied to him. But by all accounts, she’d hit the nail on the head. No matter how true Steffan’s intention, no matter how pure Steffan’s heart was, Ryan had a discernible jealousy and hatred for him and would’ve done anything to assimilate his power. “And what of Anya? Was she ever mine or was that a lie as well?” Ryan screamed at Madeline. “Yes, but you left her to be with Anise.” Ryan paused for a minute. “Well, if I didn’t want her then, why in the hell do I want her now?” “I’ll take care of her. You take care of Steffan. Get that mask on him now!” Madeline screamed in Ryan’s direction as she remained straddling Anya, her fingers seizing Anya’s neck. Suddenly, Anya’s hands went to work in a sequenced move, landing a right jab squarely in her chest as her left hand punched out sideways, breaking her steady hold. Madeline fell backward by the unexpected assault, knocking the breath out of her. **** With Madeline momentarily incapacitated, Anya got to her feet. Outside, she could her Brynne’s cries to let her in. She seemed unaffected by the gas as well. “Anya! Rhys, Alex, and Chariana, they all passed out! What’s going on? Let me in! Let me help you!” Anya released her energy thread and slowly each lock opened with precision. Meanwhile, Madeline regained her composure. Taking in a healthy lungful of air through her mask, she lunged for Anya, breaking her concentration on the door. Jab…hook…knee, Anya said in her mind as she followed through with the methodical attack on Madeline’s torso, ending with a knee strike to the head. The gas mask shattered, slicing Madeline’s face.

380

Maya DeLeina

Black blood gashed from her mouth and nose. The black tendrils crept up at alarming speeds to repair the injuries. Fully repaired, Madeline lunged for Anya once again. Instinctively, Anya stepped back in a lean and extended her leg with great force. Her kick met Madeline’s chin and sent her hurling back to the wall. Anya immediately set her energy threads back on the last lock and flung the door open. “Anya!” Brynne yelled as she ran toward Anya. “Look out!” Anya screamed. Madeline lunged for Brynne. Brynne looked back, shuddering just as Madeline froze in her action. Her body hovered right above Brynne, her eyes eerily blinking and darting back and forth between Brynne and Anya. Anya shook in concentration. Madeline was frozen in midair. “Get behind me! I don’t know how much longer I can hold her!” Brynne moved behind Anya. Anya shook. “I can’t hold it!” Suddenly, Madeline came crashing to the ground. She lay on the floor, motionless. “Anya!” Brynne screamed. She pointed in Steffan’s direction. Anya whipped around to see what was going on. Ryan had managed to move Steffan to the chamber, locking the clasp mechanisms from his handcuffs to the back of the steel chamber. Steffan’s chest protruded in front of him. Fear washed across his unmasked face. “Stop him, Anya! He is going to close the door on Steffan!” Brynne cried. Ryan ran to the front of the steel chamber and pushed against the heavy door. Steffan wiggled about, trying to break free from the handcuffs in the hollow crevice. Anya concentrated and stopped the door’s movement at the halfway point. The light that suspended from the ceiling beamed off of the steel spikes that laced the inner doors of the Nemesis. The spikes stopped inches from Steffan’s chest, merely grazing his flesh.

Veil of Seduction

381

His eyes widened in panic. Ryan was raw with anger. He pushed on the door, leaning all of weight into his action. All the force in the world couldn’t close the door. Then he caught a glimpse of Anya as her gaze concentrated on the door. “Madeline! Get up and get Anya! She’s using some sort of mind control on this. I can’t close the door!” Ryan backed away from the door. As if calculating that more force was the key, he backed up further. In an instant he hurled his body through the air, applying momentum and force to close the door. Anya struggled to hold the door steady. Ryan backed even further away from the door this time and lunged toward the steel chamber with an undeniable energy. “Anya, look out!” Brynne’s shrill sliced through the air. Madeline removed her mask and pounced on Anya. Anya blocked the brunt of Madeline’s contact, drawing her arm upward in front of her face and making contact with Madeline’s chin. Madeline sailed backward, her body crashing into the wall, knocking her out cold. But the sheer force of Madeline’s attack broke her energy concentration on Ryan for a split second. The distinctive sound of the steel door closing echoed through the room. Everyone stopped in their tracks. Anya looked up to see her worst fear realized. “Steffan!”

382

Maya DeLeina

Chapter Twenty-Nine Steffan shook as the spikes pierced his body, sending his pain receptors into overdrive. Never since his recall of the injuries he’d sustained in the war had he remembered feeling an immense pain quite like this. He felt mortal again. Through bone and flesh, the steel spikes impaled him. The entry seared an unwelcome path, massacring all in its passage. His bright-red blood poured from his wounds. His repair mechanisms sat dormant, nonreactive. His mouth watered as his saliva production increased instinctively in response to his wounds. But the damage was too extensive, and he couldn’t reach any of his wounds to repair himself. Anya, he thought. I have to say good-bye to Anya. “Anya,” Steffan whispered from the opening of the chamber. His heart hurt like he had never felt before. “My love, come here,” he said calmly. Anya ran to Steffan and gasped as his thick blood spilled out from the bottom of the chamber, making its way to the drain in the ground. “Oh my god, I’m going to try to restore you!” Anya scrambled to retrieve a stool from the corner of the room to be at eye level with Steffan. “It won’t work, Anya, you can’t alter DNA to reverse this.” Anya cried uncontrollably. “No, Steffan! It wasn’t supposed to be like this! We did everything we were supposed to!” “We missed using Brynne along the way. I couldn’t figure out how she fit into all of this to stop this. I’m sorry, Anya.” Steffan’s voice cracked as he broke down in tears. Anya turned and screamed hysterically for Brynne. “Brynne, come here!” She turned back to Steffan and spoke softly, “How much time do we have?” “Minutes at best,” Steffan spoke through his pain.

Veil of Seduction

383

Brynne ran over to the steel chamber. “Oh my god!” Brynne was hysterical at the sight of the blood. “There’s too much blood! Too much blood! He is dying, Anya!” “Focus, Brynne! Think. What can you do to save him? You are the link. I can’t lose him!” Brynne shook her head. “I don’t know, Anya. I don’t have any special powers like you, believe me, I’ve tried. I want to help, but I don’t know how! I don’t know what to do.” “No! You have to know. Do something, damnit!” Brynne stood there in tears, full of frustration and sadness. “I’m sorry. There’s just so much blood. I don’t know even know where to start.” “Brynne, it’s all right. I can’t figure out what you’re supposed to do either.” Steffan projected his voice down to where Brynne stood. He turned his focus back to Anya. “I love you so much, Anya. I don’t want to leave you. But I am afraid I’m going to break my promise to you and Chloe.” Steffan wept. “I feel it. I’m dying. I’m scared, Anya. I’m scared.” Anya shook off her tears. “No. I will come with you. I’ll take my own life and find you so we can be together.” “No! Anya, you must go on. I don’t know what there is for vampires after this existence. We cheated death. We go against all laws of nature. We were never meant to exist. I can’t put you through this too!” “No! I can’t be without you! I just can’t!” “I won’t let you do this. Anya, go on. Let the memory of our love live inside of you. Find another mate to share that love with. Find the happiness you deserve.” “I love only you. I don’t want anyone else. There will never be another you out there.” “There will never be another you and me,” Steffan said quietly. “Anya, thank you for giving yourself wholly to our love. I can die as a complete man. I am sorry I gave this life to you and can’t be with you. Forgive me.” “Don’t ever be sorry. You’ve given me more than I ever had in my life. Steffan, I don’t think I can do this. I can’t go through this pain all over again.” “I want nothing more than to be with you, but you’re not meant to come with me, wherever I am going. Please do this for me, for yourself. Stay.”

384

Maya DeLeina

“No!” Anya protested, but with an air of defeat. “Tell giggle monster I said good-bye.” “You promised her,” Anya wailed. “Tell everyone that I love them.” “I will.” Anya’s voice cracked. “Avenge my death, Anya. Find a way to make them pay for what they did. Remember what Chariana said of the future.” “They will pay!” “I will always love you. Take my bracelet from me when you have the chance. Keep that with you always, as a reminder of me, our love, our connection.” Anya nodded. “I will always love you, Steffan, always. I’ll never forget!” **** Steffan centered his gaze on Anya. His eyes dulled and froze as he took his final breath. Anya reached her fingers in through the window to touch Steffan’s face for one last time. She released a deep wail in utter anguish as she touched his lifeless body. A deep pain seized her chest, and she gasped for air. Distraught, she searched for a release, anything to free herself of the pain and anger. She turned around and focused on Ryan. He had put so much force and momentum in his attempt to close the door on Steffan that when Anya’s concentration broke, he’d gone sailing head first into the steel door, knocking himself out cold. He lay there, twitching on the ground, trying to get back on his feet. As he got to his hands and knees, Anya walked over and kicked him swiftly in his face, sending him to fall on his side. She relentlessly kicked him in the chest and stomach, stronger and with marked anger in each attack. He screamed on the ground, crunching his body up tight in the fetal position. He managed to move and caught her foot. He punched her squarely in her calf and thigh, sending her down to the ground.

Veil of Seduction

385

He scrambled backward, using his hands and feet to slide himself across the floor. He hit the back wall of the circle of death and huddled against an empty steel chamber. Anya looked up at him, her eyes igniting in a fiery burn. Behind him, a hanging pendant lamp came into focus. She concentrated on the light. It vibrated and rocked with intensity and shattered into a million pieces with her fury. The glass came down, slicing Ryan’s face, neck, and arms. He cried out as the glass lacerated his face. Anya waited for the repair mechanisms to deploy before she resumed her attack. But then she remembered the lightning. Ryan’s repair mechanisms were permanently damaged. “You bitch! My face! What have you done to my face?” Ryan held both hands up to his face, his eyes peering at Anya through his splayed fingers. He leaned his back against the chamber and pushed himself upright. “You disfigured me! This is not finished. You will pay!” Ryan yelled as he ran past Anya and Brynne and out to the tunnel system. “Anya,” Brynne called out. “I know. The bitch is next,” Anya said coldly. She turned around and saw Madeline lying on the floor on the opposite side of the room, awakening from her blackout. “Anya!” Brynne said once again. “Let me handle her, Brynne. She’s about to pay!” Anya’s voice was grave and sinister, her stare fixed on Madeline as she walked slowly to her body. Brynne grabbed a hold of Anya’s neck as she walked past her, startling Anya. Anya broke her trance on Madeline and looked at Brynne in shock. “I know what to do now,” Brynne said. Her eyes glowed bright red as her teeth elongated, and razor-sharp incisors descended through the soft tissue membrane. “Your blood, I can smell it. It’s intoxicating, just like Rhys is to me.” “What?” “You heard me. It started just as Steffan passed. Anya, I need to drink from you.”

386

Maya DeLeina

“Brynne, vampires don’t drink from each other unless they’re mates!” “Vampire kiss—yes, I know. But there is something about our blood, and somehow I’m drawn to you. Aren’t you feeling it?” “No, I feel nothing,” Anya replied. Madeline had risen to her feet and looked over at Steffan’s dead body in the chamber. “He did it! Steffan’s dead!” Madeline was jubilated at the sight and then searched the room. “Ryan? Ryan!” “Take care of her,” Brynne said as she pushed Anya down on a chair and straddled her lap. Anya projected her energy on the eleven remaining chairs, projecting them through the air. The chairs swept up Madeline in the process, pinning her in the corner as they created an impenetrable wall. She centered her concentration on Madeline, caging her like an animal in the corner. Straddling Anya’s lap, Brynne pushed her hair back to one side, pulled her head back, and slid her teeth deep into Anya. Brynne fell into a hypnotic state as she drank. Suddenly, Anya was aware of a sweet confection that permeated the air and a flood of human memories swirled in her mind. She was drawn back to her childhood, recalling the aroma that laced the air at the carnival—candy apples, cotton candy, kettle corn, all mixing delicately in an indescribable sweetness. The scent was radiating from Brynne. Brynne licked Anya’s neck, sealing the wound, and looked up at Madeline. Suddenly, the wall of chairs changed in pattern, pushing Madeline deeper into the corner. “Anya, I think you transferred your kinetic energy to me,” Brynne said in amazement. “Do you think you can hold her on your own?” Anya asked. “I think so. Why?” “Don’t look down or you’ll lose your concentration thread.” Anya pushed back Brynne’s hair, exposing the column of her neck. “I’m now drawn to your blood as well.” “Drink, Anya, drink,” Brynne said, moving closer into Anya, never letting her focus break from Madeline.

Veil of Seduction

387

Anya sank her teeth deep into Brynne and drank, savoring her rich, sweet essence. She closed her eyes and let the blood flow into her mouth, swirling around her tongue, and plunging down her throat, satisfying and intoxicating. As Anya swiped her tongue over the wound, a tear rolled down her cheek. In that instant, the realization that she could never experience a vampire kiss with Steffan ever again overwhelmed her. “So, what do you feel?” Brynne asked as Anya sealed her puncture marks. “Well, I definitely feel a different energy brewing inside of me,” Anya said, her breath ragged with rage. “Let’s see what we can do.” Brynne held Madeline in the corner as she dismounted from Anya. The two women stood side by side, setting their focus on Madeline. Anya explored the new energy sensation she’d acquired from feeding from Brynne. As she tapped freely into it, the chairs flew back into formation where they’d once stood. Madeline’s body hurled through the air, her movements odd and unnatural. It was almost as if a movie was in a rewind mode, with all of the movements playing out in reverse. They looked at each other, awestruck. “Shit! Can this be happening?” Brynne said in astonishment. “Brynne, we’re reversing time, but only on Madeline! Our time is not reversing. Nothing else is reversing. How are we doing this?” Anya replied. “I have no clue. But, Anya, this is where I fit in. This is what Chariana sensed. I think we can do this for Steffan!” Brynne exclaimed, tears of joy streaming down her face. “Yes. It all makes sense now! Chariana’s vision was in limbo not because she wasn’t sure about Steffan’s future, but because she could see him in both body states, dead and alive. That is it! We can bring him back!” “Let’s take care of this bitch first,” Brynne growled as she concentrated harder on Madeline. Anya’s brow crunched together. Madeline was pinned to the ground on her back. She screamed and kicked, punching the floor with her hands, unable to break the hold they had on her. Slowly, they slid her body across the floor, inching closer and closer to the death circle.

388

Maya DeLeina

Anya looked up at the first steel chamber situated in the row and focused her energy in opening the door. The door flew open, exposing the cold steel spikes that lined the inner door. Madeline gasped as her core remained pinned to the ground, sliding across the room like a hockey puck. She kicked and screamed, the noises escaping her echoing a demonic possession. “Ready?” Brynne asked. “Ready,” Anya replied. They synchronized their eye movement and lifted Madeline in unison, pinning her into the hollow chamber. Anya focused on the lever mechanism to raise the chamber’s flooring so Madeline would be eye level with the window opening. “Damn you to hell!” Anya said to Madeline. Madeline said nothing. Her eyes had turned to black orbs, her face elongated as she released a bone-chilling screech. She hissed and spat at Anya and Brynne. With a distinct force, the door slammed shut, instantly impaling Madeline’s body. The sound of her body intrusion was disturbing, as if a long knife sliced through the juicy flesh of a watermelon and the rind. Madeline shimmied in the hollow crevice, eerie noises escaping her body as she roared in agony. The steel chamber started to rock back and forth. The two women stepped back. Inside, Madeline’s body convulsed. Her thick, black blood flooded the area, and Anya and Brynne continued to retreat as it spread. Brynne was hysterical as she spoke, “This is not normal! Look at how much blood there is. What the hell is she?” “Pure evil,” Anya stated matter-of-factly. “Anya, look!” Madeline shook violently in the chamber, her eyes sinking into her body until they were nothing but hollow orbs. Then, her body came to an abrupt standstill, lifeless and motionless. Suddenly, her lifeless body burst into flames. The heat was unlike anything they’d experienced before, and the two women scrambled for shelter.

Veil of Seduction

389

The flame danced in the chamber, weaving in red, orange, gold, and purple. At once, the flames escaped the chamber, igniting the surface of the spilled blood. The fire swirled and climbed high into the air as Madeline’s figure was recreated in the flame. There, deep in the heat, she danced in the orange glow, without a care, unruly and forbidding. The flame fell back to the ground and acted like a vacuum, sucking all of the blood back up into the chamber. As the last river of blood was extracted from the floor, the flame extinguished, leaving behind a pungent aroma. “Where did she go? The chamber is empty!” Brynne said as she peered in through the window. A small cloud of smoke escaped the chamber as the latch unlocked on its own, sending the door wide open. “I don’t know. But what’s with that smell?” Anya said, her nose crinkling with the scent. “It’s like rotten eggs!” Brynne said. “Steffan!” Anya scrambled to Steffan’s side. He remained entombed in the chamber, his lifeless body propped up by the spikes that ran straight through. “Come here, Brynne. Let’s do this. Bring him back to me!” The two women focused their newfound energy on Steffan. The drain in the floor started to rumble, and the women took a step back. Red liquid seeped out from the tiny holes and rolled backward up on the concrete floor. “It’s working!” Anya exclaimed The pools of blood vibrated as the outspread fluid eerily narrowed, flowing unnaturally against the grade in the floor, back into the cavity of the steel chamber. Gravity, physics, all the forces of nature were nonexistent in that moment. The chamber rattled and rocked, though Steffan’s head remained listless, hanging to one side. Suddenly, the locking mechanism broke its hold on the door, sending shards of metal across the room. The door burst open. Steffan stood motionless, his hands still handcuffed behind his back in the chamber. His chin pressed into his chest. His eyes remained shut. Anya walked slowly up to his body and rested her hands on this chest. His body was unscathed, but he remained unresponsive to her touch. She pressed her face against his chest.

390

Maya DeLeina

His body was rigid and still. No sound of a heartbeat could be heard. Anya pulled her head from his chest and searched his face for any flicker of response. “Steffan?” Anya called out to him in a desperate whisper. “Please come back to me. Without warning, Steffan’s chest expanded and he let out an unnerving sound. His eyes flew open, frightened and alarmed. “Anya?” Steffan said as his gaze settled on Anya’s face. “You’re back!” Anya burst into tears and buried her face in his chest. Dazed, Steffan asked, “What? What happened?” “Steffan, Anya and I brought you back!” Brynne cried as Anya worked feverishly to release Steffan’s handcuffs. She stepped down to the concrete floor, holding Steffan’s hand and steadying his shaking body as she freed him from the chamber. “Back from where? Where was I?” Steffan looked down at Anya. “Why couldn’t I find you?” Steffan embraced her tightly, kissing her forehead. “What do you remember?” Brynne asked. “It’s a little hazy,” Steffan said as he looked around the room. The room was a disturbing scene. All of the council members were in a deep sleep. Some remained propped precariously on their chair while others had made their way to the floor. A heap of twisted metal and plastic chairs stood toward the back of the room. Steffan looked around slowly, surveying his surroundings. “What in the hell happened here?” Steffan’s gaze centered on the Eilian’s motionless body. “What’s going on? Is everyone all right here? Why are they all like this?” Steffan asked frantically as he braced himself against Anya. “They’re fine. Everyone is fine. They passed out with the Submission gas, but they’ll come out of it soon. Come here. Sit down.” Anya helped Steffan walk while Brynne pulled a chair from the tangled mess. “You don’t know what happened here?” Brynne asked. “No.” Steffan turned around looked at the death circle. His heart sank as the realization settled in him. He had just walked out of an empty steel chamber.

Veil of Seduction

391

“Did I…?” Steffan trailed off, pointing to the open chamber. Anya shook her head in response to his unfinished question. Steffan’s breath was rapid. He stumbled over his words. “How–how did you guys do this? You said I came back. That you both brought me back.” “Anya and I, the unique DNA patterns we both share from our human lives—this is what saved you. Somehow, these altered strands are a link to extraordinary abilities once we turned.” “I don’t get it. Brynne, we tried testing your abilities when we heard of the myths. There was nothing. We even tested Rhys. He didn’t capture abilities even though he drinks from you as your mate. I thought this thing with your blood was just an urban legend.” “No. It is real. But it takes both of us. I drank from Anya, Steffan. And she drank from me. That’s what triggers it, our blood sharing.” “You drank from my Anya?” Steffan asked, settling his gaze on Brynne. He turned to Anya. “You drank from Brynne? And the two of you, have a taste for each other, like mates?” “Yes,” Anya said, watching him closely for his reaction. “Anya, was drinking from Brynne not hard for you to do? You have only drunk from me. I mean, you still won’t feed from a human yet. I was supposed to ease you into that.” Anya shook her head, not really knowing how to explain what had taken place with Brynne. “I don’t know. It was just instinct taking over I guess.” Steffan shook his head, his eyes wide in astonishment. “Well, I will definitely have to watch you two do that to each other again. I’m certain Rhys wouldn’t mind being in the audience as well.” “Steffan!” the women said in unison. “So, when you say you two brought me back. Back from death?” “Yes. I watched you die right in front of my eyes. I heard you take your last breath. We said our final good-byes to each other just minutes ago,” Anya said. “I’m so sorry, Anya. I don’t know why I can’t recall any of this. The last thing I remember is walking down the tunnel with you and Eilian. In fact, I can’t even remember walking into the Nemesis.” “I don’t know why that is. We only used our energy to reverse back from when the chamber door closed on you.” Brynne said, trying to come up with a reason for Steffan’s lack of memory.

392

Maya DeLeina

“It doesn’t matter. You are here now, unharmed and with me. That’s all that matters,” Anya said, wrapping her arms tightly around Steffan. “Wait. What about Madeline and Ryan. Where are they?” “Madeline is dead. She literally vanished after we put her in one of the chambers,” Brynne informed Steffan. “Vanished?” “Yeah, and she left behind a very, very bad smell,” Brynne added. “And Ryan?” “I cut him deep. He ran out screaming and wailing, not out of pain, but because I scarred his face.” “That’s probably more painful for him than death itself. Perfect punishment,” Steffan said with a sense of relief. Steffan cupped his face in his hands and ran his fingers upward, through his hair. “So, I truly died here tonight, as I was supposed to have done in 1917.” “Yes.” “Then that explains a lot.” “What do you mean?” Anya asked. “Because of what I saw,” Steffan replied. “You remember seeing things?” “Yes. It was confusing, but it all makes sense now. ” “What did you see, Steffan! Tell us!” “I saw…” Steffan started his story of the journey his spirit took in the next world for vampires.

Veil of Seduction

393

Chapter Thirty Chloe walked down the stairs, smiling at all of the faces she could catch in the immediate area. She looked down at each step, carefully moving with the woven basket balancing in the crook of her arm. With each step she took, the bottom of the basket plopped against the stair treads. The sight sent a light, warmhearted laughter throughout the crowd. Once at the bottom of the stairs, Chloe walked slowly, counting to herself. With every few steps, she stopped, dug into the basket, and sprinkled white rose petals along the black-carpeted walking path. She rounded the foyer, heading into the living room and her eyes met Steffan’s. She was on the verge of sprinting toward him just as he caught her intention from across the room. Steffan shook his head and motioned his hands to slow her down. She smiled wide and continued to scatter her rose petals. Steffan watched the little girl with whom he’d played Superman earlier in the day resist her instinctive movements and continue to maintain her rehearsed gait. Her smile beamed ear to ear as she strolled down the carpeted path, her white crinoline dress swaying to each side like the motion of a bell. Steffan’s heart melted at the scene. Giggle monster, Steffan mouthed in her direction as he playfully scrunched his nose at her. Chloe scrunched her nose back at Steffan in response and continued her pace. Steffan stood at the top level of a tiered platform in front the wall of windows alongside Eilian, Rhys, and Griffin. The men were draped in elegance. Steffan was clad in a black-on-black tuxedo. His jacket remained open, exposing his sleek black vest and tie, his white shirt radiant under the tone-on-tone dressing. Eilian, Rhys, and Griffin were clothed in the same

394

Maya DeLeina

attire, black tuxedos paired with black shirts contrasted by a pearl-white tie and vest. Behind the men, sheer white curtains spilled down the length of the floor-to-ceiling windows, pooling gracefully on the floor. Clusters of black wrought iron floor candelabras lined the lightly dressed widows, adorned with pure-white pillar candles. The flicker of the warm candlelight exuded an undeniable romantic flair. The invitation to the evening’s affair was completely unconventional. It was held at the midnight hour and the required attire was all white, yet every guest had answered yes to the RSVP. Mortals, immortals, Wiccans, and intuitives alike clamored for the chance to be part of the event held in Y Castlle O Cerddoriaeth, as dubbed by Steffan and Anya. Their home was the talk of Colorado, a recognizable landmark in Manitou’s mountainside, serving as the new home of Heartstrings. Together, Anya and Steffan had expanded the nonprofit organization, supplying unlimited resources to offer free music lessons, award music scholarships and offering their private residence as a venue to showcase their musicians. The guests looked on as the wedding party made their entrance to Ray of Light, performed by musicians of Heartstrings. Michelle paraded down the grand stair case, followed by Brynne and Catrin. The women were elegant beauties, dressed in matching A-line, strapless, white-satin gowns. They all carried bouquets of black roses and pure-white baby’s breath. Michelle took her place at the riser while Brynne and Catrin fell into place below Michelle. The flavor of the music changed as the Heartstring’s group played My Beloved. Although no one was familiar with the piece that Steffan had composed just for Anya, the guests immediately recognized it as the signaling of the bride’s entrance. Vaughn appeared at the top of the staircase dressed in an angelic white tuxedo. He bent his arm in an old-world gesture. **** Anya stepped out of the hall and strolled down the length of the catwalk to murmurs in the crowd. She was regal, graceful, and confident in her every movement as she entwined her arm in Vaughn’s. On the inside, she was shaking like a leaf.

Veil of Seduction

395

“You are simply stunning, my dear.” “Thank you, Vaughn.” Anya selected a black, sleeveless gown for her wedding dress. Black lace in a delicate pattern wrapped high around her neck, flowing down and overlaying a plunging neckline bodice. The bottom of the dress draped in black satin with rhinestone-tucked embellishments. A slight train finished the A-line gown. Anya had her hair completely done up with a long black veil with rhinestone fittings tucked high on her head, cascading freely all around her. “Steffan has waited almost a century for this moment. Shall we?” Vaughn said with no hint of hesitation. “What? You know about Steffan? About all of us?” “Yes. Ever since the enthrallments started to diminish.” “Diminish?” “I have been diagnosed with a brain tumor, Anya. Since then, I seem to retain bits and pieces.” “Vaughn! Does Steffan know? Don’t we frighten you?” “No. He doesn’t know yet. Besides, I’m not scared. ” “You’re not scared of living among vampires who feed on you or you are not scared of the tumor?” “Well, both actually. The way I see it, I am blessed. Once I have gotten everything in order, I will approach Steffan and make my case for the possibility of turning me. Not many people with an inoperable tumor have this choice.” “I can’t believe this!” “Enough about me, Anya, Steffan is waiting.” Anya turned her head around slowly to look down behind her and caught a glimpse of Steffan waiting down below. Their eyes locked. Racing heartbeats and butterflies overtook them as they freely shared in each other’s emotion. Come to me, cariad, Stephan whispered inwardly. I’ll be right there, m brenin golygus, Anya responded. Steffan chuckled in their mind sharing. My love, your Welsh is amazing. Thank this vampire ability in learning things quickly. If I were still human, I would sound like an idiot.

396

Maya DeLeina Enough talk. Come to me. Become my beautiful queen. ****

Her hand molded into his. They fit together, like a puzzle—cast, sculpted, and designed just for one another. They held each other close, gazing at one another, gliding to the music. The guests watched Steffan and Anya take their first dance as man and wife. “You’re dancing with your husband, yet you’re thinking about Ryan?” Steffan whispered in Anya’s ear. “I’m sorry. I can’t seem to shake the feeling that we’re not entirely safe with him still out there.” “Right now, let’s just focus on us. My mind is incredibly at ease with the way the situation stands right now. Chariana’s sense of the future for Ryan and for us has not changed, and I appointed Alex to head up our security from within the precinct. I don’t know about you, but I seem to think that his disfigurement was punishment enough.” “You’re right.” Steffan motioned for the guests to join them on the dance floor, taking them out of the spotlight for the first time that evening. Steffan’s voice resonated in her head. My dear, I’ve noticed we have a few mortals here who’ve had a bit much to drink. And? And, you will have to start feeding from live humans soon. You can’t be sustained from the bottle only. You’re suggesting here? Tonight? Hesitation marked Anya’s response as she surveyed the room. It’s perfect. When you enthrall, you can help them by erasing the possibility of a hangover come tomorrow. How convenient. But there are so many people around. How am I going to do this? Anya looked around the room at the endless faces that cast smiles and gazes her way.

Veil of Seduction

397

Let’s mingle with our guests. I’ll show you how to remain unnoticed even in the thickest of crowds. Steffan and Anya worked the room, greeting their guests and sampling tastes here and there. Anya watched as Steffan extended his boundary, lacing it with enthrall to radiate around them. He plunged into their victim’s flesh from behind and drank very casually, in an absolutely nonchalant manner. Anya followed his lead and seized the crooks of their necks headon, taking in the blood essence from humans for sustenance only. The blood was fulfilling, but no one tasted quite like her mate or Brynne. Steffan taught Anya how to seal their guest’s wounds immediately and restore the areas to their natural state, as if nothing happened. Except for the other vampires, the guests were unaware of their part in Anya’s lessons. The ability to feed freely without harm or detection intoxicated Anya. **** The sound of the rolling waves of the ocean surf was mesmerizing. Anya kept her eyes closed as she drifted in and out of sleep. She took in a long, deep breath to allow the aromatic air bathe her senses. The smell of the surf was tantalizing. The scent of the warm sunshine was inspiring. The sweet bouquet of pikake and puakenikeni was romantic. Yet, it was the subtle trail of their lovemaking that lulled her from her dream state. Traces of her Tahitian coconut lotion and his spicy cologne mixed with their raw sweat, amplifying her arousal and desire to become one with her husband once again. Anya lifted her head from Steffan’s chest and perched herself up on her elbow, absorbing his naked form. He lay in a pool of pure-white sheets in the four poster bed carved from koa wood. His left hand tucked behind his head exposing the definition in his arm and the endless knot tattoo that wrapped around his biceps. He was the epitome of pure masculinity and sensuality. Anya sighed. Steffan Matthews was hers. And he was hers for eternity. There was no more talk about death. After everyone regained consciousness that chaotic day in the Nemesis, Chariana and Alex explained everything to the council that proved Steffan’s

398

Maya DeLeina

innocence. The council exonerated Steffan of all the charges and moved to restore his role as leader. Eilian regained his seat in the council, and Steffan appointed Alex as Madeleine’s replacement at the precinct. Life was good. Life. Anya chuckled to herself. She had always associated life with that of a mortal. But mortality had nothing to do with life and everything to do with death. Being mortal meant everyone had a death, but not everyone had lived a life. And immortality is where she found her life to live. Anya looked down at Steffan and kissed him gently on the forehead. “Good morning, my wife.” Steffan smiled at Anya, lazily coming out of his sleep. “Good morning, my husband.” Steffan pushed himself up and sat up against the headboard. “I love the sound of that.” Anya took in a deep breath. “I am in Hawaii, celebrating our marriage.” Anya looked down at her ring and shook her head. “I wanted it for you,” Steffan replied as he read her mind. “But it’s my third wedding. People with that many weddings under their belts shouldn’t have something that fancy.” “Says who? I saw all of your recalls and could gauge your feelings on your past weddings. I know that you got married by a judge with Ravi. And then I saw the extravagant wedding with Ryan. I could sense what you always longed for, and I wanted to give that to you.” “Thank you. I must say, I loved being in control of what I wanted. I guess that’s why I wanted everything for our wedding as untraditional and nonconforming as possible. The wedding planner that Ryan insisted I work with would have had a heart attack with just the mere mention of the color black in a wedding.” “I couldn’t imagine any other way. It was perfect,” Steffan said as he leaned over and kissed Anya. “And besides our honeymoon, we have a lot more to celebrate. You and Eilian did it. I’m so proud of you. Soon, we’ll offer sds720 for sale to the families. I’m thinking about marketing this one as Defender X.” “Why X?”

Veil of Seduction

399

“Extreme. This is a hell of a long time to be out in the sun. I’m going to forget I’m a vampire.” “Is that why you chose Hawaii, because we have more time in the sun?” “Twelve hours of being in the sunlight safely? Having the ability to watch both a sunrise and sunset? Of course! I couldn’t think of any place more beautiful than this.” Steffan pointed toward the glass doors, A look of pure delight washed over him. “The beach and the islands right outside our door. I’ve only seen this in photographs, postcard, and calendars.” Steffan paused, in complete awe of the scenery that lay just mere steps away. “When Brynne became part of our family, I poured through her photographs to see what it actually looked like through her eyes. She would tell me all about this place, and I was absolutely mesmerized. I’ve always dreamed of being here.” “So Brynne and Rhys honeymooned here as well?” “No. Brynne is from Hawaii. She grew up playing on that beach right out there.” Steffan paused and shook his head. “Makes you wonder how she could leave all of this and move to Colorado.” “Colorado is beautiful, but it’s definitely not this! And how long do we have this beach house anyway?” “A month.” “A month in paradise? I could get used to this.” “Anya, let’s get dressed and head out.” Steffan sprung from the bed naked and slid his swim trunks on. “But, husband, I was hoping we could…” Anya responded with a pouty lip. Steffan handed Anya her bikini and flashed a big smile. “I know my love. That is my intention as well, but not here.” “Where then?” Anya said as she slipped on her white bikini top. “Out there.” Steffan stepped to the sliding glass door and opened it wider, gazing at the sparkling turquoise water that led up to the two islands that sat in the distance. Anya slipped on her bikini bottom and wrapped a gauzy white sarong around her waist. “There?” asked Anya. “There,” Steffan replied. He reached for Anya and wrapped his arms around her waist. “Those are the Mokulua Islands. We’re going to kayak out to that one on the left, Moku Nui.”

400

Maya DeLeina

“Oh my, listen to you with the pronunciations! Brynne has taught you much about this place,” Anya said as she smiled. “And what do you know about this beach town’s name?” “It means heavenly water,” Steffan responded with no hesitation. Anya turned around and looked at Steffan. “As I said, I always dreamed of coming to this place.” Steffan looked down at Anya and smiled. **** They stepped out of the sliding door. The cool grass was spongy under their feet as the coconut palms swayed above them. The air was warm and carried the ocean mist that tickled their skin. They walked across the lawn, down the stone stairway onto the beach. The sand was fine, a powdered-sugar-like quality that extended for miles. Anya carried the back end of the kayak, helping Steffan maneuver it down to the water. They paddled toward the island, gliding over the placid water. The crystal-clear water afforded unobstructed views of the coral reefs alive in the ocean, just below the surface. A green sea turtle popped its head out of the water next to the kayak and startled Anya. “Look, Steffan!” Steffan looked behind him and smiled. Anya was full of wonder and excitement. As they neared the island, Anya could make out the number of people and kayaks that dotted the beach on the tiny island. “There are too many people here, Steffan!” Steffan turned his head toward her and rolled his eyes. “Oh yeah. I keep forgetting,” Steffan smiled and returned to navigating the kayak in the direction of the island. Anya watched the sunshine beam off of his back and shoulder muscles. Beads of sweat dripped down the defined ridges of his muscles as he paddled. She was rapt in arousal, daydreaming of the waves rolling around them as they made love on the sand.

Veil of Seduction

401 ****

Picking up her images and sensing the urgency building inside Anya, Steffan paddled faster and quickly released his boundary. Like clockwork, the group of kayakers instinctively paddled off the island, curiously passing Steffan and Anya on their way. Boats in the area seemed to suddenly change course. They neared the sandy shore of the island. Steffan jumped into the water, guiding the kayak up onto the beach. Anya had barely stepped onto the warm sand when Steffan whisked her off her feet. “Steffan!” Anya shrieked. “I can’t wait to feel you wrapped around me,” Steffan said lustfully into Anya’s mouth as he hungrily feasted on her lips and neck. Steffan kneeled down on the wet sand and gently laid Anya down. The waves rolled in, the cool water tangling around their sweat-laced bodies. Steffan gazed at Anya as she lay in the sand, drenched in sunshine. Her black hair and olive skin were luminous against the white sand. The crystal water shimmered all around her, their ebb and flow wrapping her in pure sensuality, wreaking havoc on his self-control. “You are so deliciously beautiful, you quench the hunger in my eyes.” Steffan shook his head and slowly moved his hands behind Anya’s neck, untying her bikini top. “Hmm, so that’s all I do for you? I just quench the hunger in your eyes?” Anya asked teasingly as she slipped off her top, her nipples hardening instantly as the water danced around her skin. Steffan’s eyes widened as he exhaled. “Woman, you know what you do to my body.” “I forget. Why don’t you show me,” Anya demanded. Steffan captured Anya’s mouth and settled into a deep kiss that made her moan in delight. In one strategic move, he stripped off his swim trunks and pushed Anya’s bikini bottom to the side, filing her to the limit. “My god, you are so wet. I love the way you respond to me,” Steffan groaned into Anya’s ear. “Baby, your eyes on me, your voice in my ear—that’s really all it takes for me,” Anya said between her ragged breaths. “Didn’t I ever tell you that you made me wet the moment I laid eyes on you in the studio?”

402

Maya DeLeina

“Oh, Anya!” Steffan moaned in response, sheer elation lacing his words. He stretched Anya’s arms above her head, entwining his fingers through hers as he pumped deep into her. Anya arched her back and tilted her hips to meet every one of his thrusts. She rested her head back, exposing her neck in a request to start their vampire kiss. A numbing electricity surged through Steffan’s, making his mouth water with need. His teeth elongated, breaking through their membrane as he spoke. “I crave you.” The sun glistened off the water, sparkling in Steffan’s passionate red eyes. “Taste me, my husband. Drink,” Anya said as she employed their sharing threads, shaking with anticipation to share in the delectable taste of chocolate and cinnamon. Steffan slowly sunk his teeth into Anya’s neck, filling his mouth with indescribable pleasure. He moaned against her flesh. Anya licked her lips and moaned. A large sea bird flew high above them, casting a brief shadow over their bodies. Anya opened her eyes and gasped. “What is that?” Steffan released Anya’s neck, his mouth dripping with blood. “Love, that’s an Iwa bird. My barrier can’t reach that far in the air to make things change their course. Planes, birds, even the gliders up there will fly over us, but the boundary will safely camouflage us. Don’t worry, they won’t see us, they’ll only see the beach.” Anya nodded in response. Steffan looked deep into Anya’s eyes. “Don’t hold back on me, Anya. Give me everything, let me hear you. I know it’s tough not to feel vulnerable out in the open like this, but please remember my abilities. And remember, you will one day learn how to do this, too. You are a beautiful and strong vampire now.” “I can do boundary, too?” Anya exclaimed. “Yes. It’s a learned ability for all vampires.” Anya’s face lit up in excitement, her eyes burning passionate red. Anya sat up as her blood continued to flow from Steffan’s vampire kiss mark. She laced her fingers in Steffan’s hair and licked the blood that was about to drip from his teeth. “Mr. Matthews, shall we continue?”

Veil of Seduction

403

“Mrs. Matthew, where were we? Ah yes…” Steffan slowly sunk his teeth back into his mark and laid Anya back down. He relished his mate’s vibrant and rich taste filling his mouth. He continued to thrust himself deep into her, assuring no part of her was left untouched by his body. With one hand, Anya splayed her fingers across Steffan’s ass, encouraging him to take her without reserve. With the other, she held his head against her neck, tempting him to take more than he ever did from her body. Steffan sank deeper into his vampire kiss as Anya writhed in ecstasy underneath him, the waves framing her body with an erotic grace.

404

Maya DeLeina

Epilogue He took refuge in the rocking chair next to the stone fireplace. It was a crisp autumn night. The full moon reflected in the lake, dancing as the light wind rippled over the surface. “Your order, sir?” asked the waitress. He was her only guest sitting outside at the lakeside bar of the five-star resort. He was dressed in pure opulence—designer clothes, shoes, and polished jewelry, as if he’d sampled every upscale boutique within the shopping quarters of the resort. “Rusty nail,” he said blankly, keeping his face turned away from the waitress. He leaned back, placing his feet on the frame of the chair and rocked smoothly, gazing up at the mountain range. A deep-seated rage and wild fury churned inside him, sending his blood to a boil. He gripped the armrest of the rocking chair with one hand as he traced his fingers delicately over the scars on his face. Panic set in. Did I get the color correct? He pulled out a compact from his pocket and examined the detailing of his foundation application before the waitress came back with his drink. Since he’d left Ambrose Heights that ill-fated night, he’d never returned. He’d left with nothing except the clothes on his back, his Mercedes and deep lacerations to his face that were now set in a purple-reddish state. He harbored unfathomable hatred inside of him, and he had spent his days planning for retaliation. He’d retreated here, to the five-star resort, nestling himself deep in the underground tunnels that once served as private passages to brothels for the elite guests. Without a supply of Defender on hand, he was limited to movement only at night. He resorted to nightly enthrallments upon staff and

Veil of Seduction

405

guests to obtain day-to-day necessities. He missed the daylight but could manage his activity limitation without much struggle. It was the lack of any Consumption supply, however, that was growing unbearable with each passing day. The tantalizing aromas of the fine dining options on the resort grounds were nothing less than consuming. “Your drink, sir.” The waitress stood waiting for a response from her guest. This was it. He would make his move. “Come take a seat here, my beautiful girl,” he said as he tapped the rocking chair beside him without turning around. She took a seat beside him. “I’ve been watching you almost every night,” he said as he slowly turned around, exposing his unmarred side profile as one eye focused on the waitress. “You are so beautiful.” “It’s you! Why did you never return any of my calls? I was looking forward to seeing you,” the waitress said with much eagerness. “What?” “Ryan, right? Ryan Evans? “Yes, but…” Ryan trailed off. “You don’t remember me?” she asked, her voice laced with disappointment. She reached into her pocket and handed him a small piece of paper. “Remember now?” Those who have love and happiness, have wealth beyond measure. Ryan looked down at the paper. This, he remembered. But Ryan couldn’t recall her. He looked up and soaked in her beauty. What does it matter anyway. She was drop-dead gorgeous. He was going to make it a point to get to know her. “Of course I remember.” Ryan smiled, trying to mask his lie. “But I don’t believe I remember your name.” “That’s because you never asked for my name.” “I didn’t? That’s a shame. I guess I was so intoxicated with your beauty that it slipped my mind,” Ryan said as he reached for her hand. “Well?” “Charlene Diana,” she answered. “But from the moment I first laid eyes on you, I was hoping that it would be Mrs. Evans one day.” He was in utter shock in her blatant reveal.

406

Maya DeLeina

He squeezed her hand and looked her up and down. She was a perfect specimen as any, quite perfect enough for a queen. His retaliation plan to start his own family and fight for the ultimate supremacy in Manitou unfolded right then and there. “So, you would like to be my mate?” “I see the wheels turning in there, Mr. Evans. What did you have in mind?” “Money. Power…” he said, staring into her eyes as he leaned in close and whispered, “…the ability to live forever.” “Go on.” “I am starting a new family, to overthrow the current leader’s reign here. I will appoint myself as king. And every king needs his queen. We will rule this town, this city.” “Oh, Ryan!” The young waitress leaned in close to his face, resting her forehead against his. She cupped her hands around his face and looked deep into his eyes. Ryan readied himself for a kiss, but instead, she started to speak. “Aphelion, my moonbeam, the dark side of the moon. This is our occultation. I bequeath myself onto you.” “Oh yes, honey, bequeath onto me.” “Like the lunar phases, so will become your fate. In full moon’s light, no longer will you fright. But by waning gibbous, you’ll once again fall hideous.” Charlene pulled down on the skin of his face with force, elongating his features. “What in the hell was that?” He grabbed her by the wrist with anger. “Nothing,” she said innocently, pulling back from his release, and got up from the chair, passing him his cocktail. “Here’s your drink,” she said as she turned to walk away. Ryan stood up and shot glances back and forth at the drink and her, stunned. “Wait. Where in the hell do you think you’re going?” He grabbed her shoulder and dug his fingers into her flesh as his face started to twitch and spasm. “Ryan, if I were you, I would spend this time heading back to the tunnels,” Charlene said, keeping her back to Ryan.

Veil of Seduction

407

“I can’t just let you go. You know what I am and what my plan is,” Ryan whispered in her ear as his twitches intensified. “The moon is no longer full. Seek the darkness. The transformation is quite excruciating.” “The moon is no longer full?” Ryan turned her around. “Then what is that?” Ryan said, pointing to the moon’s brightness behind him. “It only appears that way. The naked eye can’t determine the precise moment of the full moon phase.” Ryan’s twitches relentlessly ignited along his face. A burning sensation ran along his body, just below the skin and penetrated deep into the bone. He grabbed his face. “What the fuck! What have you done?” Charlene stood there quietly, pitching her head to one side, studying the small signs of morphing that were already occurring in his face. Ryan gasped in terror as he realized his facial structure was disfiguring by the second. “What the hell…” Ryan stopped as he tried to form the rest of the sentence. “Era uoy?” His eyes widened. “Yhw ma I gniklat siht yaw?” Ryan screamed at her. She smiled in response, shaking her head. Ryan turned abruptly, clutching his face and ran off in the direction of the underground tunnel entrance. **** Charlene stood still, watching Ryan run frantically to his eternal shelter. He screamed profanities, all backwards. Once he was out of her sight, she turned around to face the lake, tapping slightly on her shoulder. On cue, a brilliant-white owl swooped down from the trees across the way and glided over the lake, settling on her shoulder. “Good boy, Palmer,” she said as she ran her hand delicately down the owl’s wing. “Charlene Diana?” a male’s voiced pierced the stillness in the air from behind the trees. She smiled.

408

Maya DeLeina

“One means a strong woman and the other, a divine woman. My mother was torn between the two names. She said that I was both strong and divine. So she combined them. Chariana.” “Very clever,” said Alex as he fully emerged from the cover of the trees. He walked over and wrapped his arms around her waist. “And very fitting.” “Thank you, my love.” “Since when do you dabble in black magic?” “I don’t. I just never forgot the spell Madeline cast on me. And in my readings, I found out that even though Anya restored my body, I still had to do a spell transference to make sure it could never be cast again.” “Well then, good choice in the new candidate,” Alex said as he reached into his coat pocket. “Should we phone the good news to Steffan and Anya?” “They’re in Hawaii. Let them have their honeymoon time without any more thoughts of Ryan. Let it be their welcome-home present,” Chariana said, resting her hand gently on his arm. Alex nodded as he released the phone. “So I have to ask about the fortune you showed him.” “What about it?” “Did that come from the Chinese fusion restaurant here?” “Yes.” “And?” Alex probed. “And what?” “And so you just got this job at the resort.” Chariana smiled. “Well, I didn’t exactly work for the restaurant when he saw me. I just slipped in and took the bowl of fortune cookies one night, a full-moon night that is. I caught him outside as he waited for his car.” “You sly girl!” Alex held out his hand. Chariana placed her hand in his as they headed for the exit that spilled onto the cobblestone-paved shopping corridor. “Wait!” she shrieked. Chariana released Alex and ran back to the rocking chairs, sifting through the magazines that lined the coffee table. “I know I saw one here. I must’ve overlooked it,” Chariana said as Alex came up behind her. “Ah! There you are!” she exclaimed.

Veil of Seduction

409

Chariana grasped a copy of the magazine that featured the Ambrose Height’s home that Ryan had seen over one year ago. “Let me see this,” Alex said as Chariana handed it over to him with a big grin. Alex examined the magazine’s front and back cover. “He never noticed that it was missing the edition number, date, bar encoding like all of the real magazines out there? I mean, the logo is a bit wrong, too.” Chariana just shrugged. “Did it not work?” “Yes, it did,” Alex admitted as he flipped to the feature page and glanced at the article’s author and laughed. By Charlene Diana. “Seems like your alias Charlene Diana is quite popular.” Chariana smiled a devilish grin.

THE END WWW.MAYADELEINA.COM

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Maya DeLeina was born and raised on the beautiful and romantic beaches of Oahu, Hawaii. Relocating to Colorado, Maya’s crystalblue oceans and powdery, white sands were traded for enchanting forests, mystic mountains, and golden plains of promise. Living just on the outskirts of Manitou Springs, the town’s history of spiritual healing, eclectic flare, fabled underground tunnels, and rumored lore of wizardry and witchcraft rekindled Maya’s love for the paranormal, metaphysical, and most of all, vampires. One bite and she was hooked. With a hint of incense wafting in the air and the majestic Pikes Peak sitting in picture-perfect view from her windows, Maya can be found relaxing in the recesses of her comfy couch, sinking her teeth into crafting and weaving seducing and erotic tales of vampires that may or may not roam her beloved town. One read and you’ll be hooked.

Also by Maya DeLeina Siren Allure: Ambrose Heights Vampires 1: Flesh Fantasy

Available at BOOKSTRAND.COM

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com