Page 30 of Born into Blood

I grab my laptop and my phone, surprised when I see that Luka texted me last night.

The stairwell is safe. See you at seven.

What the hell does that mean?

My fingers itch to text him, but I don’t because I have no clue how to handle situations like this. He’s probably busy, and I don’t want to be the annoying girl who keeps blowing up his phone. Shoving my own phone aside, I focus on my laptop, but quickly grow frustrated when I see that no one has responded to my message in the forum.

I slump back on my bed, letting my legs dangle over the edge, kicking my feet absentmindedly until I feel a little bundle grab onto me. I hiss at the pain, but when I look down and see Pip’s little face looking up at me, it’s impossible to stay mad.

“Okay, little guy, you want to play?”

I carefully remove his claws from my socks and then grab one of his toys. Hanging onto the stick, I dangle the ball of feathers in front of him, laughing when he immediately attacks it. I can’t resist taking a bunch of photos and videos.

When he’s worn himself out, I throw on some clothes and then grab the shopping list on the fridge. I still have plenty of time to run some errands and then get back here to shower and get ready. I drop a very sleepy Pip into my mom’s lap where she’s resting on the couch.

“I’m going to grab some groceries. I’ll be back soon.”

“Okay, be careful,” she warns.

“I will. I promise.”

Pip is already falling asleep while she pets him before I’ve even left the apartment. I think having a cat will be good for her. It won’t make me feel so guilty when I have to leave her alone.

I grab the new keys that are sitting on the counter and lock up the apartment behind me. The deadbolt that’s been installed looks like there’s no way in hell anyone could pick it, and I can’t imagine what Luka paid to have this done. I’m guessing his family doesn’t have to worry about the cost of things. I don’t think he’d even looked at the total last night before handing his card over at the pet store.

Must be nice.

Instead of taking the elevator, I make my way for the stairwell. Luka had said it was safe, and as I walk down the next three floors, I don’t see any noticeable difference. It isn’t until I’m on the last level and almost to the parking garage that I see the giant Grim Reaper that’s been spray painted onto the walls.

What the fuck?

I recognize the symbol. It’s not exactly like Luka’s tattoo, but it’s close enough for me to know they both represent the same thing—the Melnikov Bratva.

Unable to resist, I send a text.

Did you tag my building?

Within seconds, a response comes in.

Morning, kisa. Sleep well?

I smile, even though I try not to.

You didn’t answer my question, but yes I did.

I’m glad to hear it. How’s Pip doing? You haven’t sent me any more photos. I’m a little disappointed. Better send me one quick or I’ll be sad all day.

He still hasn’t answered my question, but I’m too busy smiling to care. I send him a few of the photos I took of Pip playing and one of the shorter videos where he’s attacking the feather ball and trying like hell to look like a fierce tiger.

Well that might be the cutest thing I’ve ever seen. There aren’t any photos of you, though, Lara.

No, there are not. You’ll see me at seven.

Too long to wait.

God, this guy makes my heart race. I remind myself that I’m going to be ending this soon, and that I can’t let myself get attached. This can’t go anywhere, but even knowing that, I still find myself typing a reply.

I look terrible. I’m not wearing any makeup, and my hair looks more like a rat’s nest than a ponytail.

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