Page 12 of Do You Even Hex, Bro?
Great. I've stumbled into a vampire orgy recruitment session. This feels way too much like that time I went on a date and the guy tried to get me to join his insurance MLM.
"I'm here for a professional arrangement," I say firmly. "Not to become anyone's pet."
Of course, I'll need to siphon that way eventually. It's the most practical option, but I've always preferred to have a bond first. And I don't know if their interest will change when they find out what's beneath the glamour.
Who the fuck am I kidding?
Of course it will.
"Professional." Dominic chuckles. "Such human concepts. We offer you power, protection, and pleasure beyond your wildest dreams. In return, you provide magical service and..." he gestures vaguely, "sustenance."
And there it is. They want a blood bag who can cast spells. And one they can fuck.
"Sustenance," I repeat flatly. "You mean blood."
"A mutually beneficial exchange," Valerian echoes my earlier words mockingly. "Your magic requires energy. Our existence requires blood. A perfect symbiosis."
"I didn't agree to become a food source."
The thought makes my stomach roil, conjuring unwanted memories of my encounter with a bloodthirsty monster of a very different persuasion.
"The flyer specified 'complete integration with the Court,'" Esme points out. "What did you think that meant, darling?"
I should have known better. Desperation makes fools of us all.
"I think we've misunderstood each other," I say, standing. "I should go."
Valerian moves faster than my eyes can track, suddenly blocking my path. "Perhaps you're being hasty. Consider what we offer—immortal protection against your former coven. No witch, no matter how powerful, can stand against us."
It's tempting, especially with Kyle's deadline ticking away. But I'd be trading one form of exploitation for another.
"I appreciate the offer, but?—"
"They will come for you," Dominic interrupts. "They’re already tracking you, I’m sure. Without our protection, without sustenance, how long do you think you'll last?"
My stomach twists. He's right, and we all know it.
"I'll find another solution."
"There is no other solution," Valerian insists, his voice dropping to a hypnotic cadence. "No other coven will risk Evergreen's wrath for one witch, no matter how special. We are your only option, Regina."
The pressure of his glamour intensifies, pressing against my mind like a migraine. Between resisting their influence and maintaining my own glamour, my magical reserves are draining rapidly.
"I need to think about it," I manage. "This isn't what I expected."
"Of course." Valerian steps back, all graciousness again. "Take some time to consider. But not too much time. Your deadline approaches, does it not?"
How does he know that? I didn't mention Kyle's ultimatum.
Esme smiles at my confusion. "Your phone has been buzzing in your pocket. Seven times now. Someone's rather desperate to reach you."
I'd silenced it, but vampires can hear a pin drop from three rooms away. Of course they can hear the inner workings of electronics. I reach for my phone, and my heart sinks. Five texts from Kyle's burner, each more threatening than the last. And two missed calls from Cadence.
Great. Perfect timing as always, sis.
"Family troubles?" Esme asks innocently.
I ignore her, scanning Kyle's messages. The latest one makes my blood run cold.
