Griffyn flicks his own charm, a smirk playing on his lips. “After you, old man.”
We materialize on the lawn of the house before going inside to meet the others.
“Anna,” I breathe out silently before wrapping her in an embrace, the familiar scent of her calming the storm of thoughts in my mind. Her return hug is fierce.
Griffyn joins our embrace, arms circling both of us. It’s a shock that shows how much we bonded tonight.
Anna recounts the night’s events with Aksel adding details. It was a good first scouting mission.
Griffyn slides an arm around Anna’s waist and pulls her to him. “You’re mine tonight.”
I can hear Aksel grumbling under his breath that he had already called dibs, but he doesn’t make a move to leave.
Griffyn guides her upstairs and I tell Blaze, Felix, and Aksel about our night. They’re disappointed to hear that we didn’t see anyone we recognize.
“Did Griffyn give you any trouble?” Aksel asks.
Felix punches his arm. “We both know Griffyn is an incredible agent. Don’t be ridiculous.”
Aksel rolls his eyes but looks at me for an answer.
“No, he was great,” I say truthfully.
Felix and Aksel walk off bickering with each other.
Blaze is staring up the stairs at where Anna disappeared.
“How’s your redemption going?” I ask him.
Blaze grunts.
“Don’t you want help?” I ask.
“It’s impossible while we are here. She doesn’t like any of my attempts.”
“Prove you know her personally. Nothing generic and don’t give up.”
Blaze grunts but I see a spark in his eyes that makes me think he has an idea.
Nine
Griffyn
I lie in bed with Anna, her head resting on my chest, the warmth of her body pressed against mine. I run my fingers through her blonde hair, listening to her steady breaths as we enjoy this quiet moment together. Last night I stole her away and we ended up snuggling in bed, kissing, and falling asleep together. The scent of her skin is intoxicating, a mixture of sweet and tangy that I can never get enough of. Her mossy green eyes catch mine and she smiles softly, making my heart swell.
But last night I had a nightmare that the stalker came back with more wev and tortured Anna. As much as I don’t want to ruin this moment, it’s her safety so I have to. The place her stalker was getting vampire venom from is still out there and whoever was working with the Garmentas could still be growing wev.
“We should talk about the drugs and venom.”
That brings a frown to her face, but she nods.
“I’m scared,” Anna admits, her voice trembling slightly. Her eyes are wide and filled with fear as she looks up at me. “Whatif someone tries to use them against us again? What if we can’t protect ourselves or each other?”
I tighten my hold on her, offering as much comfort as I can. “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t scared too,” I confess. The thought of someone targeting Anna, Rion, or even myself, with these drugs makes my stomach churn. I’ve faced countless dangers in my life, but this feels different, it affects Anna.
“We’ll find out who’s behind this and put an end to it. We’re strong, and we have each other,” I say, trying to sound more confident than I feel.
She nods, her eyes searching mine for reassurance. I give her a small smile, trying to convey the confidence I wish I felt.
