Blood's Fury (Deadly Beauties 1)

The knot that instantly forms in my throat is too large to swallow, and my voice becomes rasp, harsh, and strained when I counter, "That's not exactly making me want to trust you."

"No, but the fact you're still breathing should make you want to trust me. Now come before the others realize I'm here."

I'm so fucking stupid.

"Fine, turn around."

He grins a little more, and then he stands to turn his back to me as I quickly climb out of the tub, sloshing water everywhere before I wrap up in my towel .

"You'll need these," he says, and suddenly a pair of pants and a red shirt appear in the room.

"Thanks," I murmur, but before I can reach for them, they're on my body.

Great. He's a pervert in reverse - dressing me against my will.

"Sorry, but there's not really a lot of time. Your changer friend will be coming in any minute."

"How do you know that?" I muse while stepping over to him.

"Because I heard him talking to one of the others. He told him he was going to see if you needed anything from town. Just go to the door, tell him to get you something random, and then say you're tired."

Instantly, there's a knock at my door. Heading away from someone I fear almost as much as night stalkers, I make my way to the door, unsure of whether or not it's smart to send away a strong ally so I can sneak out with a known enemy.

"Hey," I murmur as Thad pops into my room.

"Wow, you look good. Did you finally manage to get some new clothes?" he asks, his curiosity now a little piqued.

"Um," I mumble, looking down and then up, "I just forgot I had this. What's up?"

"I have to go into town. You need anything, or would you like to come with me?" he says almost suggestively. "I know you've been wanting to do some shopping."

Crap. I finally get the chance to refurnish my wardrobe, and Mr. Dangerous shows up, wanting to prove his peoples' innocence.

"I would, but I'm actually exhausted right now. I didn't sleep too good last night. Could you get me some chocolate while you're out?"

"Yeah, no problem. You feeling okay? You look a little flushed."

His hand cups my chin to tilt my head up, and I nod against his touch.

"I'm fine. I just talked to Kane a little while ago. I guess it sort of… well…"

"You miss the human?"

"Yeah."

At least it's the truth.

He looks a little disappointed, possibly wounded, but he nods in acceptance.

"I'll get you some chocolate, and I'll grab you some socks, too. Frankie said you need some."

My face heats up instantly, and he tilts his head curiously as I squirm.

"Something wrong?" he asks, seeming amused.

"Nothing. Tell Frankie I'm going to kick his ass."

He smiles, seeming confused and intrigued, but he doesn't say much else before disappearing out the door. I turn around, and in a blink, Mr. Dangerous is staring into my eyes, taking my breath with his startling closeness.