Page 16 of Toward Immortal Ruin

Nero’s features pinched. “It’s complicated.”

“Yeah, I’m sure it is,” she replied. “This is exhausting.”

She let go of Marianne and the cat immediately crawled into Nero’s lap. Though Eden frowned at the animal’s behavior, she allowed Nero to fill in the blanks as he her pet purred obnoxiously.

“I’m not sure if it’s going to get better. Based on what you’ve said, theCitizensmight know that you gave the FBI a lead on them.”

Eden was quiet for a moment as she digested what he’d said. “You think they’re targeting me.”

She leapt to her feet, stalking through her small apartment and ranting, “I never should have met with them. It was a stupid mistake. I thought they were going to give me proof of something, but all they managed to convince me of was that they were unhinged.”

Nero didn’t think it was the moment to reveal the other side of the story—the one where vampires were real, and her fated mate was an all-powerful immortal. Right now, the emotions she was broadcasting clued him into the fact that she needed to rant, and he needed to commiserate.

“It’s not your fault, Eden,” he said carefully. “They can be very persuasive, and honestly, I’m not surprised they approached you. You’re brilliant, and you’re a foremost scholar on the topic they’ve decided to be fixated on.”

She collapsed on the couch next to him with a sigh. “I guess you’re right.”

On his lap, Marianne was curled in a ball, still enjoying chin scratches. Given Nero’s abilities, most felines formed an instant bond with him, and his mate’s companion had been no different.

“I do have to say, I’m surprised she’s taken so readily to you,” she said offhand. “My cat doesn’t like anyone. Not even me.”

“Oh, I’m sure that’s not true.”

With a sigh, Eden looked out the windows. “It’s late. Is it strange that I don’t really want to sleep here tonight?”

His heart broke for her. “Not at all. After the last few days and tonight’s revelations, I don’t blame you. Is there anything I can do?”

“My apartment is supposed to be my haven,” she murmured. “My getaway. Right now, it feels like a prison.”

“I’m sorry.” If anything, he was driven to help her rectify the problem. “I’m pretty sure the hotel I’m staying at has a vacancy. Do you want me to ask?”

“No—no. That’s ridiculous.”

The sound of a car honking outside made her jump.

Everything in him drove him to see to her needs, but latching onto her tightly when she was already this flighty would end poorly—for both of them. She needed to lead the direction for their relationship, not him. He stood up, reaching out his hand. When she took it, he gave it a squeeze.

“We’re going to figure this out.”

Fervently nodding, she straightened her spine. And then she asked, “Would you mind staying the night here? The couch is comfortable, I promise.”

“Eden, I—”

“I understand that we’ve just met, and I know you barely know me,” she pleaded. “But I’m spooked, literally, and I know you’re one of the good guys. Having you here would be a load off my mind. I don’t want to freeze, Nero. Please.”

Nero searched her face, subconsciously reading her emotions. What she’d said was true—she was fearful, as she had been since they’re returned to her apartment, but there was a yearning behind it that was unmistakable. Eden wanted him here tonight, and he wouldn’t be able to deny her.

“I’d be happy to.”

“I’ve got an extra toothbrush, if that helps.”

“Very much.”

“But nothing in your size.”

He grinned. “There’s a Walgreens just across the street. I can go grab a few essentials and come back—unless you want to go with me.”

Eden’s response was immediate. “I think I need a few essentials, too.”

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