Page 57 of Midnight Whispers
“Tsk. Tsk. Tsk. Lillia.” He moves his finger backand forth.
“Whoareyou?”
“It’s a shame you don’t recognize me, my love.”Finn.
“This can’t be real. You’d never hurt me.”
“Wouldn’t I? Isn't it in my nature to desire your blood?”
“Yes, but you wouldn’t do anything without my permission.”
“Then give it to me, sweet Lillia. Let me taste you again.” He comes closer, slowly removing the hood of his black sweater.
He bares his teeth, his face contorted with hatred.
“No. Not like this.”
He lunges at me, nothing but anger behind his movement. I cower, shielding my face in hopes to protect myself from whatever is coming. Though, I know there’s no way I could protect myself from a vampire.
“Lillia!” I’m being shaken. “Wake up!” Flora’s voice cuts through the heaviness in my head. I blink repeatedly, opening my eyes to the room in France.
“I must have fallen asleep.”
“You were having a nightmare.” Asher and Finnian stand at the end of the bed, both with wide eyes. My clothes cling to the cold sweat that now covers my skin. “I really need that shower now.” I try to chuckle.
“What were you dreaming of darling?” Asher asks.
“Oh, it was nothing. Just a dream.”
Refusing to make eye contact, I look at Finn. He knows I’m keeping something from them, but I can tell he doesn’t know what.
“I’m going to go to the store around the block to get you some clothing.” Finn says, rushing out of the room.
26
“Merci.”
I take the bag from the cashier. It wasn’t hard to tell that she was flirting with me as she was helping me find an outfit for Lillia, well a couple of outfits. I know her size, but I was unaware of what kind of a mood she would be in, and I wanted her to feel comfortable. So, I purchased her a pair of jeans, a dress, a pair of loungewear, and a couple of shirts.
The streets are busy when I exit from the boutique as the cafes fill up with people eager to eat. I walk across the pavement and cross the street back toward our place. Dread settles into my gut when I think about being on our way to Ireland tomorrow. While it’s one of my favorite countries, spending any time with the Counsel is not a way I like to spend my time.
Lillia sits on a daybed in the windowsill, a book in hand. Even with the beautiful cloudless day shining in the window behind her, she is still my favorite view. I clear my throat upon entrance to the room and walk toward her.
“Hey.” She closes the book and adjusts herself to face me.
“Here are your clothes,” I move a strand of hair and place itgently behind her ear then place the bag of clothing on the bed beside her.
“Finn, I will not break. I feel better than ever. Truthfully.” She whispers, refusing to meet my gaze.
“I know you won’t.”
“Everyone’s treating me like I’m made of glass. I don’t like it.”
“They’re all just excited you’re awake and healed.” My voice is almost a whisper as I breathe her in, savoring the scent like I’ll never experience it again. I rest my forehead on hers and intertwine my fingers in the hair that rests along her shoulder, tugging gently in a desperate need to bring her closer.
“I’m here, Finn. You got to me in time.” She whispers in the space between us. I breathe out a deep sigh.
“I should have left when I had the chance.”