Page 61 of Crimson Oath
“And when you’re not pissed off at me for leaving, you’re going to realize that I’m right.” She ran to catch up with him. “Samson.”
He flipped up his hand.Shut up.
“Fine,” she muttered. “What an excellent parting this is. You act as if I’m dying when I’m basically going on vacation for six months.”
He didn’t sign a word.
Tatyana followed him down to the next level where he abruptly stopped and stared ahead.
There was a black transport van waiting at the end of the garage with three people standing by its side.
Tatyana felt her stomach drop. This was it.
Samson reached out and took her hand, folding her cold fingers between his own.
“Thank you,” she whispered. “Kato and Alexander say the kamvasa has never lost a guest. In a thousand years, not once.”
Samson nodded.
“So I’m safe with them.”
He let go of her hand.Did you pay them?
“Of course.”
Then you are safe,he signed.Poshani hospitality laws are considered sacred.
“Okay.” She let out a shaky breath and took his hand again. “I won’t know where I am, right?”
He shook his head.
“They said I’ll have a tablet though. So I can video-call you. Check your messaging app. I’ll try to call as soon as I can.”
He nodded.
“I’m scared,” she whispered. “My entire vampire life has felt likeI’m hopping from one knifepoint to another. I just want to find someplace to rest.”
Samson stopped, turned, and set her backpack down so he could wrap her in a firm embrace. He pressed her head to his chest, and though his heart was silent against her ear, it was comforting anyway.
After a few moments, he pulled away and signed,Let this be your rest. For six months, you will have nothing but time. No worries about your safety. No worries that Oleg will find you. No worries about my father being impatient. You will be safe in the kamvasa.
Tatyana nodded.
Use these months to look in your heart. Powerful people join the kamvasa. You might even find a vampire you would like to work for. Use this time to make connections and breathe.
“I will.”
And at the end of six months, if you want me to come and find you, I will.Samson rolled his eyes.I can piss off my father and get away with it.
“You are wise and kind,” she whispered. “And I’m probably a fool for passing up the chance to be with you.”
The corner of his mouth turned up.You’re in love with Oleg.
“I’m really not. He’s just in my head.”
Samson shrugged.Think about it.
“I’ll take your advice, but right now I better go to these people. They’re going to think I’m stalling.”
