Page 201 of Volik

“Volik! Est-ce toi?”

It’s probably been forty years since we last talked. He sounds older. But I still recognize his voice.

“It is me.”

“I cannot believe it. Mated! My boy!”

I grin at his happiness. “Da. Who would have thought.”

“You must come at once. I want to meet her. Your aunt as well. She hasn’t shut up about it since Barth brought over the article.”

“We will come.” I promise. “We were awaiting your call. I do not know your location.”

“Await no more! We’re in France. Come tonight.”

I shake my head. “Nyet. We will come Friday night.”

There’s a pause, and I can picture Uncle shaking his head. “Why wait? What could be more important than a celebration?”

“Nix will want to work. But we will come for the weekend.”

“Work?” Uncle sounds disgusted. “Volik, did you spend all your money? How? You’re still young.”

The dean snorts, and I wish to the fucking gods that one of these men could see me rolling my eyes.

Chapter 84

Nix

“Yes, that’s—” I turn my head at the sound of the door opening. And my mouth pulls into a smile as I watch Volik duck into the room.

The overhead lights reflect off his horns. And I have to ball my hands at my sides since the urge to jump up and grab them is almost too much to ignore.

Volik’s nostrils flare as he meets my gaze. And my core muscles clench around nothing.

Ever since I woke up with fangs, that drug-like haze of lust has disappeared.

But it hasn’t lessened my lust or my need for him. It’s just a totally lucid, overwhelming need now. That still hits daily.

Good thing for my new healing powers. Because I’m pretty sure without it, I’d be sore with every step.

I clear my throat and turn back to the class.

“This is the perfect example.” I smirk as the idea comes to me. “You can set up the perfect meeting for a source. You can plan your questions. You can get there early; get the exact seat you’d like if it’s a public space. But you can’t account for the outside world. You could be halfway through your interview when something happens. Maybe your ex walks into the coffee shop. Maybe an antique vampire walks in.” I glance at my mate. He narrows his eyes on me as he drags his tongue over his fang. “It’s hard to practice for the unpredictable. But we have an opportunity now.”

The students glance around at each other, murmuring.

This might be going a little off script, but I do think it will be good practice for them. It will also be a little fun. Because even though they’re acting remarkably chill about the whole mate situation, I know they’re curious to know more. Probably dying for a chance to interact with Volik.

Truthfully, if this had happened to my teacher when I was in college… it would be the only thing I thought about.

I turn, addressing the vampire by the door. “Volik, will you⁠—”

He jumps to me.

Collectively, every student jerks back. Shoes and chairs squeak against the floor. And at least three kids let out short screams.

Volik just dips his chin. “Da.” Agreeing before I ask the question.