Read Online Wolf's Fall by J.D. Tyler - Free Book Online Page B

asked, trying to make his voice as casual as possible.
    â€œMostly.”
    Absorbing the implications, he tried not to break into a cold sweat. Did he want to attend a party literally stuffed full of unknown vampires and try not to think about how fast he could become dinner? Not hardly. But Calla wanted him to come, and that alone made his heart pound in excitement.
    â€œTarron’s trying to shore up relations with the European vampires,” she went on. “He thinks we’re too vulnerable, in light of the recent problems with rogues and hunters.”
    â€œWell, he’s got a point.”
    â€œIt would be so much more fun if you werethere,” Calla went on. “Plus, you could benefit from these contacts as well. And maybe if you’re there, Tarron won’t— Never mind. What was I thinking? Of course you don’t want to hang around with my kind after what happened. I’m sorry. I’ll just go.”
    Struggling to cover her upset, she started to rise, and he caught her wrist. “Wait. If I’m there, maybe Tarron won’t do
what
?”
    â€œNothing. Forget I mentioned it.”
    Damn. Now she’s clammed up. Probably thinks you don’t want to spend time with her. Great job, dumbass.
    â€œI’d love to go,” he said softly.
    Her eyes met his and the pain there vanished. “Really?”
    â€œYes. But a few of my men will accompany me, if that’s all right.”
    â€œOf course. No leader attends a party full of other powerful leaders without some backup.” She smiled. “I’m glad you’re coming.”
    â€œAny excuse to spend more time with you.” That part wasn’t a lie. He wished he didn’t have to attend the party in order to see her, but for some reason it seemed really important to her, so he’d manage his fears. Somehow.
    â€œThank you. I can’t wait.”
    When she leaned over and gave him a lingering kiss, warmth filled him.
    Perhaps, for once, he’d done the right thing.

Four
    â€œD o they suspect?”
    â€œNo, Master.”
    The vampire studied his Sorcerer, who was kneeling before him in supplication. As it should be. Quite a coup to have a powerful creature such as Jinn under his complete control. Such a rush.
    That was what love did to the victim—it blinded. A fatal flaw, in the end.
    An emotion he would never allow into his heart again.
    â€œGood, my pet.” He stroked the soft hair on the bowed head, let his fingers linger at the nape. “We will continue to blend in, to infiltrate their ranks, learn their secrets. I want you to find me one who we can turn to our purposes. Can you do that?”
    â€œAbsolutely, Master. I have one in mind who I’ve learned craves power among the vampires.”
    â€œHis name?”
    â€œGraham, a guard. He’ll do nicely.”
    â€œFine.”
    Jinn looked up at him. “About Tarron’s gathering. We’ll still attend?”
    â€œOf course. I’m invited, and no one will recognize you as your true self. Ironic, isn’t it?”
    â€œVery much so.” Jinn hesitated, then said solemnly, “Master, I’m going to help you make them all pay for what they’ve done. Every vampire in Tarron’s coven, and every one of their wolf allies. I swear to you.”
    For a split second, something like warmth fluttered against his icy soul.
    â€œI know you will. Now, rise and see to it.”
    â€œYes, Master.”
    Jinn pushed to his feet, turned, and left in a swirl of his black cloak. The vampire took a moment to appreciate the Sorcerer’s fine form, then exited the room himself to attend to other business. First, he was ravenous.
    Steps quickening, he descended the stone steps to the basement. Then down a dank, torch-lit corridor to one of the cells therein. Using his key, he turned the lock and walked slowly inside. Took stock of his trembling, terrified blood slave and