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“The Lux Crew can take the other end of the Strip,” Sawyer says, nodding at Knox. “We just need some fucking visuals, so it shouldn’t cost too much.”
“Cost?” The second the word escapes my mouth, I regret it only because everyone looks at me. I should be used to it, but for the first time in a while, I haven’t been under the scrutiny of hungry vampires. They’re more focused on what needs to be done.
“Blood, little bird. We have the largest donor populace outside of the head fuckers.” Monroe materializes beside me, startling me at his sudden arrival. “We have a system. Crews are more willing to help when you have something to offer. Otherwise they’re just as fucking useless as the Strip dwellers.”
My mouth forms an O.
“We don’t give them actual donors,” Sawyer says, making a point to ensure I know Monroe means just gen. pop. blood. “Never will, either. They don’t belong to us. This is their home as much as it is ours.”
If only it could be my home too. I had no idea there were donors on the strip that didn’t have to worry about dying by a vampire’s fangs. I always thought that every donor in the world was claimed, and it’s strange to know otherwise.
My emotions get the best of me, and I bow my head and stare at my half-eaten plate of pasta. Knox brought me way too much that if I even tried to eat another bite, I’d waste everything I’ve already eaten.
Sawyer rests his hands on my shoulder, massaging my tense muscles like he senses what goes through my head. “It has always worked out,” he adds. “That’s how we know it’ll work out across the Strip.”
“I can barely grasp the idea,” I admit.
“That’ll change soon. Promise.” Monroe leans over and gets in my face, stealing my attention. “Now, come on, little bird. I have to get you home. The limo is waiting outside, and I don’t know how long it’ll take Perry to get over his shock of me forcing him to suck on the cane. A picture wasn’t going to do this justice, and I figured since he had to drop you off that I’d take advantage.”
My heart sinks into my stomach at his words. “I have to ride with him?” My voice quakes with my question. Fuck.
“Don’t worry. You won’t be alone. I’m riding with you,” Monroe says, helping me to my feet.
“And we’ll meet you there,” Knox adds, offering me a smile.
Sawyer stands in front of me and surprises me by biting his arm. “I’m making you a blood promise, Hayley.” He touches my cheek. “And with this promise of our blood, we’ll protect you in mind, body, and blood. Now don’t look away. I’m going to ensure Aris can’t manipulate you, no matter how hard he tries. We might not be able to break his control of you completely, but your thoughts will at least be safe from him.”
If only the same would go for the rest of me.
