Eternal

Damsel in Distress

Chapter 14: Damsel in Distress

Grudgingly I accepted Aidan’s offer, even taking his arm like something out of the 1800s. “How do you even know where to take me?” I said a little defiantly. Blame it on my lying bloodsucker of a best friend.

Aidan chuckled, “There is only one Vampire household here currently and I know for a fact that they wouldn’t let you out of their sight so I assumed you would be staying with them.”

I huffed, well aware that I was acting like a brat, “That worked out brilliantly since I just walked out the front door without a protest.”

He nodded, “Yes, but judging by how I found you I suspect they wanted to give you some time alone.” He steered me across the street as we neared the house.

The children were still playing but this time didn’t stop when I approached. I wasn’t too sure if it was because they’d already seen me or if it was because Aidan was with me. Either way I wasn’t too concerned.

Since I’d simmered down slightly from my earlier episode I took the time to admire the beautiful house. It was a simple two-story painted a soft buttery yellow with a pristine white wrap-around porch that had chairs scattered across it. Under every white-framed window hung an explosion of vibrant flowers that added to the overall warmth of the house. The grass was lush and green, broken only by the stone pathway leading to the porch steps.

This was where Aidan deposited me, pausing at the steps to cock his head to the side slightly. He chuckled softly as he gestured to the house, “Good thing you came back. By the sounds of it Lucy is starting to get worried.”

I shrugged, “It’s not like I went far. Well –” I didn’t get the chance to finish the rest of my sentence because the white door was thrown open and Keegan flashed to my side.

“Liz!” His hands settled on my shoulders as he looked me over with concern etched into his face, making sure that I was still in one piece.

I shoved him off and crossed my arms over my chest, glaring at him, “I’m fine.” I snapped, letting him know that as far as I was concerned he was still in the dog house.

Keegan completely ignored what I said, “You’ve been gone for two hours, where have you been? I was about ready to send out a search party!” He exclaimed, pulling me into a tight hug despite my numerous protests.

“Now you know how I felt.” I grumbled into his chest, still trying to push him away.

He sighed heavily, instantly understanding the reference to the missed Saturday. He released me to sift a hand through his hair, his brows pulled down, “I know you’re angry with me but you can’t just disappear like that. Stay close next time, okay? I don’t want you getting hurt.”

“She’s aware of the dangers.” Aidan cut in, coming up beside me with his thumbs hooked in his pockets.

Surprise flashed across Keegan’s dark blue eyes, quickly followed by confusion and apprehension.

Aidan bowed his head and repeated the introduction he’d given me earlier as well as stating his business here before Keegan asked, “I found Lisbeth alone and thought it best that she returned. To be honest, I’m more than a little surprised that she was left unguarded.”

In a split second the air was thick with tension, Keegan and Aidan staring at each other unwaveringly.

“Had anyone hurt a hair on her head I would have known it. As long as she’s on Pack land she’s safe. Why this is any of your concern is beyond me.” Keegan bit out, a muscle jumping in his jaw.