The vampire guard had been almost as stressed by the situation as Mirabelle. Used to the Neanderthals who populated Jabril's lair, Mirabelle had been huddled in a corner when Cyn reentered the music room. It was a false alarm-Mirabelle reacting to the sudden appearance of one of Alexandra's many security vamps. 'Cynthia!” Mirabelle's frightened voice broke the sudden tension and had both women hurrying back into the manor house. 'What's the hurry?” Alexandra said, mirroring Cyn's movement and more, coming close enough that Cyn could see the tiny creases in her carefully applied makeup. “I'll just say good-bye to Mirabelle and be on my way.' Abruptly uncomfortable, Cyn stepped away from the railing. “I'd like that,” she lied.Īlexandra's eyes gleamed with a greedy sort of joy, like a child eyeing a favorite candy. The vampire wasn't the only one who could fake a smile. At least until they worked out something long term for the girl. Perhaps we'll be friends then, after all.'Ĭyn doubted it, but hoped for Mirabelle's sake they could remain friendly. And Mirabelle has my cell number if she needs anything. Can I reach you through the estate operator?” When Alexandra nodded, Cyn said, “I'll keep in touch then. 'Perhaps Mirabelle would enjoy some piano lessons,” Alexandra said grimly.Ĭyn winced. A fresh round of enthusiastic piano music erupted from the music room. Raphael's the one who walked away, not me.' “You know, I'm getting kind of tired of everyone pretending this is my fault. “I've never known my brother to miss a woman, to miss anyone, as much as he did you when we were locked away up there in Colorado.'Ĭyn blew out a breath, frustrated.

'He missed you, you know.” Alexandra said, giving Cyn a narrow look. And he would be very unhappy if he knew you were here today I don't think he quite trusts me yet.” Again that private little smile before she said brightly, “I'm told the contractor will be here tomorrow to rip out this ridiculous marble.'Ĭyn forced a laugh, relieved at the change of subject. He didn't speak to me for days, and then only to inform me that if any harm came to you because of me, he would personally stake me.' “I don't think I've ever seen my brother as furious as he was that night, certainly never at me.

“He said no.” She sobered then, gazing pensively over the marbled courtyard. “Oh, don't worry, Cynthia,” she said breezily. But something must have shown on her face, because Alexandra laughed again, altogether pleased with her reaction. I wanted him to make you Vampire so you could be my friend forever.'Ĭyn froze, uncertain how to respond. 'You could have called me on the phone,” Cyn commented.Īlexandra gave a tiny, very pleased smile. I wanted you as my friend, my companion.' I admired you, your strength, your courage. With Matias dead-he died trying to defend me, but you know that, of course-I had no one left. 'What?” Cyn stepped away from the tiny vampire woman, suddenly uncomfortable.Īlexandra laughed at her reaction.

Jabril by D.B. Reynolds