Page 29 of The Immortal’s Mark

With that thought in mind, I hold my breath.

Des swings a startled look my way. “Don’t be ridiculous, Darcie. Breathe.”

My mouth falls open.

Did he… did he just read my mind?

He shakes his head once, lips twitching, then turns back to Alex. “I’m waiting for an explanation, Alexander.”

The vampire bristles. “You’re being indiscreet. What were you thinking? Standing so close with the door open where anyone can see?”

It takes me an extra beat to understand.

When I do, heat rushes up my neck. “Are you being for real?”

“What if Thane had walked in? Or another member of The Alliance?” Alex presses, hard eyes unwavering. “You know they’re all just looking for an excuse to try and force a bond between you two.”

My stomach clenches, and it sinks to the floor when Des rubs the back of his neck and drops his gaze to the scattered papers at his feet. “I wasn’t thinking.”

My heart drops.

“Clearly.” Alex sneers.

He steps into the room, closes the door, and leans against the surface with crossed arms. “There are enough rumors circulating about the two of you. There is no need to fuel the fires.”

Des sighs. “You’re right.”

My eyes bounce between the two males.

What in the world is happening right now?

Since when does Des answer to Alex?

“Are either of you going to explain what this is all about?” I ask.

Des pulls his eyes from Alex. His jaw works from side to side. “Thane is deranged with grief, and he’s looking for any reason to force us to bond.”

I ignore the way the words make my heart flutter. “I know.”

“You know?” His forehead furrows.

“I had a vision a couple of days ago,” I say with a shrug. “While you guys were in the dining room.”

Instead of surprised, Des looks amused.

“Ah, yes.” His cheek twitches. “The chair.”

I duck my head. “Yeah…I need to work on keeping quiet.”

“It seems so.” He clears his throat. “If you saw Thane, then you know he is not himself. His demands are becoming more insistent, and I’m beginning to wonder what he’s capable of.”

A chill races down my spine.

“What is the worst he could do? It’s not like he can force you to do anything. Right?”

Alex snorts.

“What?” My narrowed eyes slide his way. “What is wrong with you?”