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“No.”
Levka’s face heated. “The last time—“
Again, Petroski motioned for silence, then leaned forward in his chair. “You have disobeyed the league’s ruling six times this year already and it’s only March.”
“That’s only twice a month,” Ruric said.
“That’s six times more than the league allows,” Petroski said. “The league could have you eliminated for your constant disobedience.”
Levka shared looks with his friends, but none of them revealed how they felt.
“But the league doesn’t want to get rid of its claim to having the highest number of royal members—for now. So you have been given a task.”
“With the condition Caitlin is mine.” Levka took her hand and squeezed. Even if he didn’t make her his in the vampire way, if he had the league’s permission, he hoped that would be enough to keep Vlad’s hands and teeth off her. Even other leagues would have to honor their commitment.
Petroski glanced at her and shook his head. “You cannot name conditions, Levka.”
“What’s the job?” Stasio asked, giving the tracker a cutting glare.
“Teen troublemakers make up the most of the league’s problems. You’ll be required to police them. We’ll provide a list, you find them, and report back to us, and we’ll bring them in for counseling or punishment as we see fit.”
“I’m game,” Ruric said, shrugging, “if it gets our names off the list.”
“Turning in those who break our vampiric laws sounds good to me,” Arman said.
Stasio rolled his shoulders. “Fine with me.”
Levka turned to Petroski. “It’s a deal if I can have Caitlin.”
Petroski stood. “I will get off at Caracas, next stop, and fly home. We’ll be in touch.”
Clenching his teeth, Levka asked, “What about Caitlin?”
The tracker considered her, then faced Levka. “It’s hard convincing a mortal she should give up a way of life she’s always known. Some love the way of the vampire, others do not. You’re drawn to her, I suspect, because she’s telepathic, and you cannot control her. Am I right? The truth is, sometimes it’s just easier taking a mate you can brainwash.” Petroski smiled, and the look was purely wicked.
“Is that what you did?” Levka asked, unable to hide his irritation.
Petroski’s smile faded. “No. I took a woman who fought me every step of the way. There are advantages and disadvantages to every relationship. None are perfect. Compromise is the key. But when you turn the girl, there is no going back for her, or for you.”
Petroski paused. “Good day, gentlemen.” He gave them a curt nod of his head, then gave Vlad a harsh look and left the lounge.
Vlad moved his drink to where the others were seated.
“How come you can mask your telecommunications, and you wouldn’t tell me you could?” Caitlin asked Levka. She definitely had an edge to her voice.
“I don’t think everyone can do it, Caitlin.”
She pulled her hand away from him. “What did the tracker say?”
Vlad motioned to her with his drink. “Has Levka not told you what we really are?”
Caitlin looked at him, sitting slouched on the arm of the sofa. “What?”
“Abominations. Genetically-mutated monsters. Big mosquitoes, blood suckers. Technically, vampires.” Vlad gave her a lopsided grin.
“You’re drunk. And you’re underage.” She turned to Levka. “What did the tracker say?”
“We’re to track down our kind, who are causing trouble.”
