“Bad news?” I surmised.
“Yes and no. Something’s come up that requires my attention.”
“Now? But it’s almost dawn.”
“The place I need to visit isn’t far, and once inside, there’s no windows to expose me.”
“You’re leaving.” I couldn’t help but sound disappointed.
“I’m afraid so. This matter has to be handled before Christmas. You’ll barely notice I’m gone, seeing as how you’ll be sleeping shortly. While you slumber, I’ll take care of business. That way, you’ll have my undivided attention when you wake.”
Okay, that didn’t sound so bad. But still… a woman didn’t appreciate knowing work came first. I dropped the towel.
His brow lifted. “Now that’s just cruel.”
My lips tilted. “Just making sure you’re motivated and don’t forget about me.”
He moved so fast, I had no time to react, and didn’t want to since he dragged me against his body for a kiss. “Sweet dreams. I’ll be here when you wake and we can start celebrating Christmas early.”
I’d forgotten it was Christmas Eve, and me without a present. Guess I’d have to rely on my womanly skills—and suction power—because by the time I woke, the stores would mostly be closed. Besides, what did you buy the guy who probably owned everything he needed? Not to mention, was it tacky to use his credit card to do it?
I didn’t think about the dilemma for long as the sun rose and I conked out. I didn’t wake until it set again, stretching and yawning wide enough my jaw cracked.
Rather than lounge in bed, I rolled over to grab my warm drink only to notice nothing on my nightstand. Weird. Guess someone forgot. No biggie. I knew where to find a blood bag. Seeing as how I didn’t want to run into Cillian with a bedhead and sleepy pillow face, I spent a few minutes in the bathroom, brushing my fangs, washing my face—and nether parts—combing out my hair, which crackled before falling like silk around my bare shoulders. Had to say, I loved what I saw in the mirror. No more menopausal jowly cheeks or dark circles. My lips had regained their fullness and my lashes had never been thicker. As for my body? My hands skimmed over my curves. Full perky breasts, my waist a noticeable indent, my belly almost flat, the slight roundness of it in my opinion sexier than the concave some women strove for. A slight turn and I could admire my ass, heart-shaped and firm.
Seeing as how I didn’t know what Cillian had planned—other than his promise to celebrate—I dressed comfortably in a clingy cotton crop top—that showcased my nipples—and hip-hugging velvet joggers. Not something I’d have dared to wear a few weeks ago, but if you have it, flaunt it.
I chose to remain barefoot and exited my bedroom to find the house dark. The Christmas tree wasn’t lit. The fireplace was cold. Odd. Also strange, I didn’t spot Cillian or any of his staff on my way to the kitchen. Perhaps he’d not yet returned from his business. Most likely he had Randy with him. But it surprised me that Gwen appeared gone. Usually, she got stuck babysitting me. As for Lou, I’d only ever seen his scowling face a handful of times, seeing how he worked the day shift while I slept.
The pot of blood didn’t take long to warm on the massive gas stove—which I found to be an ironic appliance given Cillian didn’t eat solid food. His staff did, but I’d yet to see any of them in the kitchen prepping any meals.
I poured the warmed plasma into a mug and wandered into the living room. A press of a foot pedal lit the tree making it a little more inviting.
“You’re up.” The flat statement came from Lou, who’d entered the room wearing his usual suit—and grimace.
“Evening, Lou.” I chirped brightly which only made his face knot tighter. “Where is everyone?” I asked before taking a sip of my breakfast.
“Out.”
I could have rolled my eyes at the obviousness but instead said, “Out where?”
“You’ll see. Finish up your drink so we can leave.”
Ooh, a mystery trip. Sounded promising. “What should I wear?”
“What you have on is fine.”
Hmm, guess the secret location didn’t require fancy attire. How intriguing. I did find it odd Lou would be the one taking me, though. Usually, he ended his shift when I got up.
I finished off my blood and smiled. “All done. I just need a minute to brush my teeth.” Because I didn’t want coppery breath.
“I’ll meet you in the driveway,” Lou’s short reply.
The man seriously lacked a personality, and it wasn’t just with me. I’d overheard Gwen muttering to Randy about how she didn’t know why Cillian kept Lou on staff since he made no bones about being miserable most of the time. Randy said something to the effect of Lou considered being assigned the day shift an insult. To which Gwen replied, He should be grateful he’s still alive, given I heard he’s been giving the boss major attitude since Skylar’s arrival. He hated me and I couldn’t think of a reason why.
I quickly scrubbed my teeth—minty fresh and ready for smooches—threw on a jacket and slid my feet into some cute UGG boots—that I would have scoffed at as overpriced slippers when I was broke. Had to admit, now that I owned a pair, it was like wearing clouds on feet, warm and cushy.
Exiting the house, I noticed a car I’d never seen before in the driveway with Lou behind the wheel, tapping his fingers impatiently. No jumping out to open the door for me like Randy and Gwen, and when I tried the passenger door, I found it locked. I knocked on the window and earned a frown from Lou. He lowered the window a crack. “Get in the back.”
