Page 22 of Fire in My Blood
Chapter 14
Lucas
The anguish in Erica’s voice and her heart-rendering sobs makes me want to wrap my arms around her and hold her tightly. She’s in so much pain, but I’m still too weak to open my eyes and tell her I’m alive.
The wounds in my chest are already healing, but it’s slower than usual after being starved for days. I need access to my element in order to heal faster, but that’s not possible down here.
My heart flutters in my chest with the knowledge that the beautiful woman cradling my head in her hands cares about me. And she wants to kiss me again. She’s even willing to see her own brother punished for killing me.
My mind suddenly clears, and I understand why I’m here. David is Erica’s brother, and he knows about the attack on her four years ago. Not only that, but he understands the significance of the bite. That’s why he captured me, because he thinks I’m a vampire.
If I had the energy to laugh, I would have. The man has brutally punished me for a crime I didn’t commit, but I can’t fault him for it. In fact, I approve, and I’ll do worse to the vampire who raped Erica when I find him.
Ice slithers through my veins when realization hits me. Erica was attacked again in the last couple of days. That’s why David was so furious. Was she raped again? The horrible thought is enough to force my eyes open.
Erica’s forehead is resting against mine, and her eyes are closed. “Erica,” I whisper. But she doesn’t hear me through her sobs.
I channel more of my energy into my voice. “Erica.”
Yanking her head back, she opens her eyes and stares at me. “Lucas?”
Several seconds go by before she throws her arms around my neck and hugs me tight. “You… You’re alive.” But it only lasts for a moment before she pulls back.
“I have to stop your bleeding. We have to get you to a hospital.” She looks around frantically. “I won’t let you die.”
“Erica.” I force more power into my voice to get her attention. “Listen to me. I’m not dying. Please listen to me. It’s important.”
Her head swings back to me, but the frown on her face tells me she’s not convinced.
I manage a weak smile. “Erica, this is going to be hard for you to believe, but please trust me. I’m not delusional. What I’m about to tell you is the truth.”
Her frown doesn’t change, but she holds still, giving me the opportunity to explain.
“I’m immortal. I cannot die. No matter how damaged my body gets, I’ll always heal. I’m a rare supernatural with an affinity for fire, which means I can draw energy from fire and use it to do my bidding. My wounds are already healing, but in order to speed up the process I need energy, either in the form of fire or by drinking blood. I don’t think it’s a good idea to start a fire in here. Will you allow me to drink a little of your blood, Erica? I know this is a lot to take in, but please trust me.”
Her eyes are wide and unblinking, but she hasn’t run screaming yet, which is a good sign.
***
Erica
All I can do is breathe while I try to digest what Lucas just told me. My mind seems like it’s stuck in gum. It’s difficult to think.
Lucas is alive, but what he’s saying is impossible. Then again with the wounds he has suffered and the massive blood loss, he should already be dead. It’s a miracle his eyes are open and he’s talking to me. But is it evidence that what he’s telling me is the truth?
I move one hand to his throat. There’s a gash on the right side of his neck, but it has stopped bleeding. Does that mean he’s already lost too much blood, or is he healing like he says he is?
I press two fingers to the side of his throat. His pulse is strong and even. Lifting my gaze to his eyes, I study them carefully. “Who are you, Lucas?”
His eyes close for a few seconds before he looks back at me. “I’m what you would call a supernatural being. My kind call ourselves elementals since we sustain ourselves by drawing energy from our element. My brothers and I each have an element to command. Mine is fire. We usually hide what we are, both from humans and other supernaturals. You’re the only human I’ve ever told.”
“Fire. You sound…dangerous.” I cringe from my own words. Of course he’s dangerous. I knew that when I still thought he was human.
“I am, but only to supernaturals who kill or hurt humans or other supernaturals, without a good reason. I want to protect you, Erica, but then we need to get out of here. Can I please have a little of your blood to help me heal and regain some of my strength? I know what I’ve told you sounds crazy, but please help me.” His eyes are pleading now.
I let my hands drop to my lap and start laughing. I just can’t help it. This is far beyond crazy—it’s completely insane. Next it will be raining fairies, and the animals will start talking.
I take a deep breath and try to compose myself. There’s nothing funny about this situation, but my nerves are shot.