Page 51 of Fated for Flames
He wore a pristine suit again today. A male in a suit could do things to a girl. But a vampire in a suit? That was a whole other level of intensity.
Alister glided over to me, his eyes scanning the open pages of the book. “These texts can be quite challenging.”
He leaned closer to me, his intoxicating scent enveloping me.
Do not sniff him, Evelyn!
“If you’d like,” he offered softly, “I could help you decipher these passages. Ancient languages are somewhat of a specialty of mine.”
I hesitated for a moment, unsure if I should accept.
But I needed answers. I nodded eagerly. “I would appreciate your help,” I replied, trying to keep my voice steady despite the fluttering of nerves in my stomach.
Alister’s lips curved into a small smile, revealing a hint of fangs that that made my heart race.
I moved aside to make room for him at the table. As he settled into the chair next to me, a wave of warmth washed over me.
It was nice.
Alister’s slender fingers traced the lines of text on the page, his touch light yet electrifying. His deep voice resonated in the quiet room as he began reading. His voice held a melodic quality that seemed to breathe life into the ancient words. With each passing moment, I found myself drawn further into his presence, hanging on to his every word.
I wish I had popcorn.
Time slipped away unnoticed as we delved deeper into the mysteries of the texts. The initial frustration melted into fascination as I realized I knew so little of my world.
“Looks like it’s time for me to head out,” I said, my stomach chiming in with a timely growl.
Alister’s smile in response was nothing short of captivating, making my heart flutter uncontrollably.
That was when my stupidity decided to kick back in. “Do you drink blood?”
“Yes,” he replied, “specifically, human blood.”
I cringed.
“You have nothing to fear from me, little phoenix.”
“What, so you’ve got humans stashed in your basement for snack time?” I said jokingly. His expression turned grave, and I instantly regretted my words. “You don’t actually have people tied up down there, do you?” I gasped, half expecting a laugh but receiving none.
He does. He has people in the freaking basement!
Alister’s gaze held mine, his eyes dark and inscrutable. “Rest assured, I do not keep humans captive for sustenance,” he said evenly.
The weight of his words hung heavy in the air, stirring a mixture of relief and unease within me.
Shit, have I angered him?
“Good to know,” I replied, “and I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have made such an assumption.”
Alister inclined his head graciously.
I gathered my belongings and prepared to leave.
“Thank you for your help, I appreciate it,” I said before turning to make my way out of the library and out of the mansion.
32
Evelyn
