“Yarn was already on the list.”
“And how did you know I liked to knit?”
He slipped his phone into his pocket. “You wear knitted scarves.”
“So does half the planet. If I didn’t know better, I might think you’ve been eavesdropping on our conversations.” I brushed my fingers across the ivory bedspread.
How long does he think he’s keeping me? It’s all so beautiful, but I don’t even know where I am. I can’t believe I’m about to sleep under the same roof as a Vampire.
My stomach twisted into a knot.
Atticus approached and touched my shoulder. “Maybe this isn’t what you desire. I have rooms without windows, or would you rather have one downstairs? I’ll move the bed wherever you want.”
Tears welled in my eyes, and I sank onto the bench at the foot of the bed.
“You’re homesick.” He knelt before me. “Would you like to call them?”
“No, I’m just scared. Not only about my pack but the looming uncertainty about my future.” Stroking my belly, I added, “And the baby.”
He scratched his head. “A warm bath might do the trick. You have your own private bathroom.” He gestured to the door by the bed.
That made me laugh hysterically.
Atticus blinked in surprise. “You’ll have to fill me in on the joke.”
When my laughter settled down, I wiped away lingering tears. “Salem warned me not to take baths anymore because I might slip or get stuck in the tub. Someone would have to pull me out, so it wasn’t worth the risk. Oh, but I miss a good soak.”
“Tell you what. When you’re ready for a bath, I’ll help you.”
“Certainly not.”
“I give you my word I’ll shut my eyes.”
That made me laugh again. “If you close your eyes, we’recertainto fall.”
He crossed his arms. “I have all that you need. Rose-scented oils, salts, soaps—all at your disposal. You need only ask.”
“You’re generous, Mr. Rain. I still wonder what compels you.” I turned my gaze to the oversized chair by the wall and spotted candy dishes on the accent table next to it. “Are all your guests given VIP treatment?”
He sat beside me, a hint of yesterday’s cologne lingering. “You’re my first guest. I took the liberty of scheduling an appointment with your Relic. Unfortunately, she couldn’t be coerced into staying here indefinitely until you leave.”
“Her clients and job are more important than one person.”
He put his hand on mine. “If it would make you more comfortable to have her here, I can charm her.”
“Don’t you dare! The poor woman has patients who need her.”
Atticus peered across his shoulder at me. “If you were mine, I would hire a private, live-in Relic.”
“I’m not debilitated—I’m only pregnant.”
“Precious things should be protected. I’ll take my leave and let you settle in.” He stood and bowed. “My lady.”
Atticus marchedthrough his house and walked onto his back patio. The sun warmed his skin but burned his eyes. Many younglings couldn’t endure daylight until they increased their pain tolerance. Sunglasses helped, but he was too furious to bother.
After selecting Yuri’s number from his contact list, he waited for an answer.
“Yes, sir? Is everything as you requested?”
