I blinked. “Town? But how can you keep him away from where he lives?”
Joy gripped my arm, and I was suddenly reminded thatAtticus was a Vampire, and that meant he had the ability to erase memories and implant new ones.
Unlike in human folklore, Vampires walk in daylight. It’s painful since their eyes are sensitive. They’re one of the true immortals—never aging, never dying. Not unless they’re beheaded or burned. My father said one of the biggest untruths in human lore was that Vampires were undead—as cold as ice and no heart beating in their chest. Immortals once fabricated misconceptions about their abilities to throw off other Breeds or humans, back in a time when humans knew about us. The warm flush in Atticus’s cheeks suggested that he was most definitelynota corpse.
As I thought about their immense gifts, I pondered whether I should buy a stake and keep it behind the counter in case of an emergency.
Atticus offered a solemn smile. “You will never be troubled by the likes of him again.”
Joy lifted her chin. “And if I am?”
“I’ll disembowel him. Please, let me make it up to you.” Atticus opened the door and snapped his fingers.
Like a scene in a movie, a parade of people walked through the bookshop, carrying large bags and silver serving dishes.
One of them stood in the back and said, “Over here! Leave the table in the van.”
“What’s going on?”
“They’re here at my behest,” he replied.
I swiftly walked to the back of the store and stood aside while the obsequious waiters converted my long folding table into a buffet. The food was on silver dishes, including an array of sandwiches on brioche buns and a fruit platter so expertly crafted and arranged that I couldn’t believe my eyes. The three-tier dessert tray of finger foods was straight out of a magazine. They had even brought plates, napkins, drinks, and dessert mints.
“Gracious!” Joy exclaimed as she neared the table. “This is all for us?” She sampled a bite of one of the desserts. “Mmm. This is heavenly.”
When the waitstaff finished setting up, they bowed before making a hasty exit.
Atticus joined us. “Everything was freshly made especially for you. Nothing but the finest ingredients and ripest fruit. I was prudent not to prepare hot, wet, or fragrant foods. Paper soaks up all the smells, and it came to my attention you opened a bookstore.” He centered his eyes on mine for the first time. “I have great admiration for collectors of ancient literature. If it wouldn’t offend you, I’d like to come in one evening and make a purchase. I’m an avid collector myself.”
“Of course,” I said, still taking it all in.
“From what I’ve seen, you have exquisite taste.”
My eyebrows shot up. “How can you tell? They’re not all marked.”
He canted his head. “I noticed the labels. Besides, the age of the bindings and the condition of the books tell me all I need to know. Ancient artifacts that are well-cared-for must be collectible for a reason.”
“You’re not wrong there.”
“May I have the pleasure of your name?” he asked.
“Cecilia Talius.”
“Talius. Is that Roman?” He took my hand as if to kiss it and pressed it to his forehead before letting go. “A pleasure, young miss.”
For a Vampire, Atticus possessed an enigmatic yet handsome appearance. His black eyes and brown eyebrows contrasted with his pale blond hair. It looked as if the wind had combed it back in a short wave. His flawless skin fascinated me. Vampires didn’t scar, let alone freckle, and I’d never seen one up close.
Joy licked icing off her finger. “Why is there a separate bowl of cantaloupe?”
“One of my people informed me of your order,” he admitted. “What you can’t eat, you’re free to take home. I prepared enough to stretch a few meals. You may keep the dishes if you like.”
She smiled, but I saw no warmth in it. “I only have one request.”
He bowed his head.
Joy warily approached him. “Promise me you’ll never use your magic on Cecilia. I don’t want to worry about her working in here alone with you visiting.”
“I would never.” He shook his head.
