Page 30 of Rescued By the Vampire Assassin
"Excellent work," Victor said when they'd finished. His eyes, a swirling mix of deep red and brown, fixed on Keri. "You've proven yourselves valuable assets to this clan. I think it's time we dealt with Mr. Germaine and his Dalca collaborators once and for all."
A thrill of excitement ran through the room. Keri felt Joshua's hand tighten on hers, a silent promise of support and shared purpose.
As the meeting adjourned, Keri slipped away to the balcony overlooking the estate's vast grounds. The night air was cool against her skin, carrying the scents of pine and distant wildflowers. She closed her eyes, reflecting on how much her life had changed in just six months.
Gone was the lonely, frustrated reporter, always on the outside looking in. In her place stood a creature of the night, part of a family bound by blood and loyalty. The work was dangerous, yes, but it was also deeply satisfying. For the first time in her life, Keri felt truly alive.
"Penny for your thoughts?"
She turned to find Joshua leaning against the doorframe, his eyes soft with affection. Keri held out her hand, drawing him to her side.
"Just thinking about how lucky I am," she said, leaning into his embrace. "I never imagined my life could be like this."
Joshua pressed a kiss to her temple. "Any regrets?"
Keri thought about it for a moment, then shook her head. "Not one. This is where I belong. With you, with the clan. I finally feel complete."
"Good," Joshua murmured. "Because I have plans for you. Plans that stretch out for centuries."
Keri turned in his arms, meeting his gaze. The love she saw there still took her breath away. "Oh yeah? Care to share these plans?"
Joshua's smile was both tender and wicked. "Oh, I think I'd rather show you."
As his lips met hers, Keri gave herself over to the kiss. Beyond them, the night stretched out, full of danger, excitement, and infinite possibilities. But here, in this moment, with Joshua's arms around her and the promise of eternity before them, Keri knew she was exactly where she was meant to be.
