Testing Fate (11 page)

My shudder wasn’t missed by his observant eye and he chuckled softly as he beckoned for the nearby staff member. He whispered something into the person’s ear before they hurried away. He gave me a cheeky wink and I felt my face flush. I could definitely understand now why he seemed to have a legion of swooning followers. He was a flirt.

“Your mother tells me you’ve never met a vampire before. I’m flattered to be your first.” His hand played with the empty wine glass in front of him, rolling the stem between his fingertips. He looked so relaxed, while I was a bundle of nervous energy. He broke eye contact with me long enough to offer a ‘thank you’, when the server returned with his request.

I gasped out loud, my eyes wide, horrified. The server gave me a curious glance before continuing to pour Devlin a drink, a very red, very thick liquid that I just knew was blood. Reality hit me hard. I was sitting at the table with a vampire. One that was now draining his glass in one long, gulp. He didn’t even sip it. One moment his glass was full and now it rested back on the table, a few droplets left inside.

My heart pounded in my ears. My throat was instantly dry and I couldn’t get rid of my sweaty palms. I let out a strangled groan when the server poured Devlin another. I couldn’t tear my focus away from the way he tipped back the glass, his throat moving as he swallowed, or the flick of his tongue capturing a stray droplet. He enjoyed every last bit of the drink and I was confused when the table suddenly burst into laughter.

“Was that really necessary?” Vivien chuckled, my mother joining in. I stared at them, and then back at Devlin, who was now wearing a large grin.

“You do know you’ve probably traumatized her. Look!” It was then that I realized how rigidly I’d been sitting, my hands wrapped protectively around my neck. “Honey, it’s okay.”

“You’re fine with him drinking blood in front of you?” My question only made everyone explode into more hilarity.

“You best answer, Devlin,” Vivien deferred, shaking her head and gesturing toward me. “You’ve terrified her.”

I stared at him and caught his regret. “I’m sorry, sweetheart. See?” He held up the glass and slanted it toward me. “It looks like blood, but it’s really tomato juice. I was just teasing and didn’t mean to shock you.” He came around the table and kneeled down beside me. “Can you forgive me?”

I’ll never forget the sight of seeing a strong vampire at my feet, earnestly looking up and apologizing. “So it was just a joke?” I whispered.

“It was and a poor one at that. I sometimes forget not everyone gets my humor.” He took hold of my hand and kissed the back. “To make up for it, I’ll owe you one favor of your choice. Deal?”

The suggestion definitely appealed to my young heart. I could just imagine seeing Tommy’s face the next time he tried to bully me and Devlin showing up to defend me. I really liked the idea and I grinned.

“Deal!” I giggled loudly now, the shock wearing off. “It really was funny, though. I was trying to think of ways to convince you my blood wouldn’t taste good.”

“What, a sweet girl like you? Oh I don’t know . . .” He squeezed my fingers when I tried to pull away. “Darcy, I don’t ever drink from those I consider friends. We are friends, aren’t we?”

I dropped his hand and stuck it out to shake. “You bet.”

“Something tells me this will be one of my favorite friendships. Thank you for forgiving a foolish vampire.” He smiled and I answered him by throwing my arms around his neck. He encircled his large arms around my small body and an accord was struck.

Our relationship would grow stronger and stronger after that day, becoming one of the most influential and cherished for both of us.

“You know, I never did claim that favor you promised.” I laughed, a fork full of egg hovering above my mouth. “So you still owe me. I wonder what I could make you do. Something to equal the pain and suffering you caused me.” I dropped the utensil and placed my hand over my heart. “Forever wounded, Devlin. To this day!”

He tossed a crumpled napkin at me and I easily dodged it. “You don’t think this is enough?”

“Heck no,” I exclaimed. Picking up the last piece of bacon, I chewed on it thoughtfully. “Don’t worry. I’ll try not to make you squirm . . . much.”

He rolled his eyes at me, draining the glass before putting it in the stainless steel sink. “Still as dramatic as the first day I met you. Glad to see some things never change.”

“Yep, that’s me. I’m consistent and you love it.” I followed him over to the basin and placed my used silverware in with his. “I’ll do dishes seeing that you cooked. It’s the least I can do.”

“You sure you don’t want to use your favor? Conserve your strength?” Devlin reached around and turned on the faucet. I slapped his hand away and shooed him from the area.

“Nope, you don’t get off that easy.” Squirting dish soap into the quick filling sink, I began cleaning. “Tell me, did you ever pull that stunt with anyone else?”

The twinkle in his eyes and large grin was all the answer I needed. He cocked his eyebrows, folding his arms over his chest as he leaned against the now cleared counter.

“Who?” I pressed, needing to know I wasn’t the only person he’d pranked like that.

“It was another young vampire. If I thought your reaction was priceless, Vlad’s was hysterical. I just wanted to tease you. With him, it was personal.” He shook his head and I tried to picture the how it happened.

“Did you scar him as well?” Devlin’s fangs flashed as he grinned. “See? You’re leaving behind a traumatized string of victims.” I flicked a heap of suds at him.

“Hey, I just wanted a fond memory of his first taste of blood, that’s all. I just wish I’d videotaped it.”

“You’re horrible. Poor Vlad.”

“Poor me, he’s a pain in my ass.” From the sound of it, the vampire drove him crazy but there was no hiding the affection in his voice. “Anyway, it was all in a day’s work.”

I snorted. “And we all know how much you love what you do.”

“True.” He chuckled.

“Speaking of which, you sure it’s okay for you to be here with me? I can’t imagine being an Enforcer is something you can put on pause. Won’t the King be upset?” I rinsed off my plate and laid it out to dry.

“I’m exactly where I need to be, Darcy. Nothing is more important.” The sincerity in his tone made me turn around. “And Zane would agree, wholeheartedly. There are others who can pick up the slack, if needed.”

“But . . .” I hated the thought of Devlin being needed elsewhere and being stuck here with me. I was grateful he was, his presence made the whole situation bearable but I knew how much everyone relied on him. He growled in response and I laughed. “Did you seriously just growl?”

“Quit being stubborn and trust me. Now, finish up with the dishes so we can figure out what’s happening today. I’m assuming you’ll have the second trial.”

“You assume correctly.” The new voice in the room answered. Lakhesis stood patiently at the suite’s entryway with her hands hanging gracefully by her side. “It is time again, young Darcy.”

Pulling the sink plug, I dried my hands quickly and gave Devlin a brief hug. “Wish me luck!”

He returned my embrace, his strong arms holding me for a moment before releasing me. “Just keep calm and focused. You’ll do well.”

I nodded and took a deep breath. “Got it.” Approaching the Moirai, I offered her my hand as a signal that I was ready to be transported to wherever they had planned. Hopefully, whatever it was would be similar to the last one, but something whispered I shouldn’t bank on it.

My gut told me it would be harder.

Chapter Eleven

This was definitely no luxurious suite or comfortable chaise.

I stood before the entrance to a maze, the high hedges looming over me. As I looked in both directions, the massive walls stretched out beyond my sight. It was intimidating in size, the green foliage making up the riddled paths was thick and impenetrable.

“This will be your next test, Darcy. Enter the maze and find your way to the center,” Lakhesis announced and I turned to find her behind me.

“Sounds simple enough. I love a good challenge.” I grinned, returning my attention to the maze.

“Nothing is ever as simple as it appears. I would strongly suggest you use caution when inside. Who knows what horrors you’ll face,” she cryptically answered.

“Next you’ll be telling me there’s a monster in there ready to eat me,” I joked. When she didn’t laugh, a sinking sensation filled my body and I started wracking my brain for information. I knew from my history lessons there was a story about a maze that contained a horrifying mystical creature. I cringed remembering the horrible photos the book contained.

“I must also tell you of another condition.” Her announcement caused me to look at her sharply. I’d assumed my memories were the only things I’d lose during the Heart or Death, no other stipulation being mentioned at the beginning. Annoyance flared, making me think the Moirai were happy to just make things up as they went.

“What is it?” I asked cautiously, not sure what else they could take or request of me.

“From now on, you must complete each challenge alone.”

“That’s fine. Devlin is back in the suite.” Her comment confused me. I hadn’t intended getting his help with the tasks anyway, understanding he was here more as a support than anything else.

“No. You must meet each test without the power and strength of your wolf. She will be suppressed and you will continue on as a human.”

I was floored. Shaking my head, I was speechless. Memories were one thing, but taking something that was such a fundamental part of me, that was another. I wanted to fight against this latest condition. I wanted to boldly refuse. The idea of being without my wolf sickened me.

“It will only be for the duration of Heart or Death. You will be reunited with your wolf once you are done. You have my word.” Lakhesis placed her hand over her heart. I could’ve sworn mine had ceased beating.

“Human. You want me to face the unknown without my wolf.” I repeated it again, making sure I understood right. When the Moirai nodded, I let out a loud breath.

It went against everything I was, relinquishing my nature, even if was for a good cause. I had to keep reminding myself that there was something ultimately greater at stake, something worthy of even this kind of sacrifice.

“Make it quick, then. Please.” I closed my eyes and tried to hold back my tears as the constant connection I enjoyed with my wolf went silent. I reassured myself she was still there—still under the surface.

When I looked at the Moirai again, there was sorrow in her eyes. “It is the only way.” Taking one last look at the maze, Lakhesis whispered
beware the beast
before disappearing and leaving me alone.

“The beast?” I studied the opening and peered inside. I couldn’t see anything threatening or alarming, just long stretches of leaves and greenery. I reached for my wolf, an instinctual habit when facing the unknown, and remembered why she was silent. “Time to get this show on the road.”

I took a step into the maze. The opening instantly closed, sealing me inside.

“Ooookay,” I drawled, uneasiness coming over me. I didn’t bother searching for the exit. Something told me the only way I’d be getting out of this was getting through it. I just hoped whatever else was locked in here kept its distance.

Letting out a steadying breath, I looked around, not sure which direction was best. I wanted the quickest and safest—the one that would take me straight to the end, without any fanfare or obstacles. The problem was both appeared identical with no telltale neon sign blinking, “this way . . . this way!” This is where my wolf would’ve been a handy companion with her ability to sniff out danger. She had an excellent sense of bearing, as well as being extremely protective.

A loud howl pierced the silence. Hair rose on my arms and I tried to determine where the savage sound was coming from. Without a doubt, whatever guarded over this test was currently somewhere to the left, and it made the decision for me. There was no way I was going to knowingly head toward it.

I quickened my pace as I began walking to my right. There’d been no more feral cries, but I wasn’t going to chance a meeting with the creature by taking my time. I dragged my hand along the hedge wall, hoping to uncover an opening or something to aide me. All I found were small, rough branches.

I didn’t know how long I’d been moving, but each time I turned around to measure my progress, it seemed like I’d been standing still. I was no closer to penetrating deeper into the maze. The sun was shifting in the sky and the subtle drop in temperature told me what I’d already suspected, night was coming and I was walking aimlessly.

There has got to be an easier way. Think, Darcy
, I muttered under my breath. I took another glance around when an idea struck. Craning my head backward, I judged how difficult it would be to scale the hedge wall.

I was getting nowhere fast, and unless I could see exactly what I was dealing with—distances and possibly the center, there was no guarantee I’d get out of here anytime soon. I stretched a little before looking for a suitable foothold. That was one benefit to the thick foliage, it held my weight long enough to quickly climb and reach the top.

The maze wasn’t as expansive as I had initially thought. Whether it was an illusion or not, I didn’t know, but I took courage when I spied the middle. Swinging my leg up, I straddled the width and took a few seconds to plan. If I kept my head about me and didn’t get completely turned around, the layout was simple enough. I just needed to follow what I’d memorized.

I stared down at the ground, realizing how high I was perched.
You know, no one said I couldn’t be inventive.
I grinned and steadied myself. Counting silently to three, I shifted my other leg and fell to the other side of the wall. I was now closer.

Brushing myself off as I kept going, I mentally retrieved the maze’s design and started moving in the necessary direction. No more endless rows, it became a series of lefts and rights, each one unraveling the maze’s mystery and taking me closer to victory.