No. This isnothappening.
Resolution forms inside me.
I march over to where Chelsie and Sean are sitting on the couch.
“Hey, hon!” Chelsie says. She frowns when she sees the expression on my face. “Um, what’s up?”
I look at her and Sean. “I need your help.”
Two inches taller, I stride back into the lounge. I borrowed a pair of ruby heels from Chelsie, and a matching red, satin dress that hugs me at my bust and hips. She convinced me not to wear a bra, and I feel a little exposed, but in a surprisingly good way. Sean did my make-up and hair, finding the perfect shade of crimson for my lips, dewy and rich. He insisted I wear my hair up, giving me a teased ponytail, with tendrils of wavy black hair framing my face.
Now the party has really started, the heavy music thumping in the air. There are already vampires drinking from a few of the living humans, sprawled out across the shadowed couches. The smell of wine, blood and sweat mingles in the air, lustful and sweet.
I’m pleased to notice the heads that snap in my direction as I stride across the lounge. It’s dark, but Chelsie told me that vampires have good night vision.
From out of the corner of my eye, I spot Crimson. She’s seated on one of the low couches, straddled by the human she was talking to before. A fierce, angry blush reddens my cheeks, but I look away quickly, and take a steady inhale.
The dance floor is right in her line of sight. I walk across the lounge with determination, positioning myself in the perfect spot. As though the universe is conspiring with me, a slow, sensual song starts to play.
There are enough other people on the dance floor that I’m not alone, but I still stand out. I start to dance, oscillating to the music, leaning into the bass.
It’s amazing how an outfit can make you feel completely different about yourself. I remember how much I enjoyed dressing up with Amanda in high school. I’d dismissed it as silly and childish, but now…I realize there’s something powerful in it. In claiming my femininity.
Even if Crimson doesn’t notice me. Even though Blake never did…Iliketo dress this way. And I want to do it more often. I want to do it forme. For the way it makes me feel.
Another vampire catches my eye on the dance floor. He wears a black turtleneck and has wavy brown hair that touches the nape of his neck and thick lashes framing warm, hazel eyes. He gives me a sweet smile as he moves closer. He’s definitely not Crimson, but I guess if she’s busy, Icould…
Instantly, his gaze snaps over my shoulder, and his face contorts in fear.
And she appears, like a deadly apparition. The other vampires immediately retreat, disappearing like shadows into every corner of the lounge.
“What are you doing?” Crimson asks me sharply.
I shrug, continuing to dance. “It looked like you were busy.”
Her eyes narrow slightly. “I said you weremine.”
“Well, that’s not really fair, is it?” I ask. I’m shocked at how bold I feel, but my outfit is giving me newfound confidence. “I’myours, but you can still drink from whoever you want?”
She frowns, then steps closer. A chill emanates from her skin, making me shiver.
“That’s not how it works,” she replies, her voice husky and low.
I swallow, feeling like all of the air has gone out of my lungs.Howdoes she have this affect on me?
“Howdoesit work, then?” I ask, sounding more brave than I feel.
She moves closer still, her lips hovering over mine.
“Follow me. I want you all to myself tonight.”
CHAPTER 12: YES, SIR
Paige
I follow her down a hallway, and then another flight of stairs. It’s chillier down here, and goosebumps sprinkle my skin. The lights are also dimmer, barely illuminating the stone passageways.
“My crypt is at the heart of the mansion,” she explains.
