Forsaken by the Others by Jess Haines

knew exactly what I had been staring at a moment ago, “I am thrilled to finally meet the girl
     who stole the heart of Alec Royce. I must admit, I never thought he’d request that
     I be the one to offer sanctuary to one of his own, but I am delighted that I could
     be of service.”
    I’m sure my blank look spoke for me. His smile became a little more genuine, and he
     spread his arms, bowing his head in a theatric move reminiscent of an orchestra director.
    “You must forgive me, I have forgotten my manners. Ladies, may I introduce you to
     Fabian d’Argento, master of San Francisco.”
    A man who was sprawled as if he had been placed just so on the couch inclined his head to us. “Delighted,” he said, clearly not.
    Like Clyde, Fabian was lovely to look at but undoubtedly far more deadly than you
     would think based upon appearances. I had once mistaken Royce for a lackey; had I
     not just been introduced to the two, I might have easily assumed the same of Clyde
     and Fabian. Though they were both pale, and perhaps unfairly good-looking, they did
     not give off any dangerous vibes. Their ability to pass as human and my instant attraction
     to them was what made them dangerous, particularly since, as both were masters of
     their respective cities, they must have been ancient. The old ones always seemed to
     be devious and strong enough to lay the smack down on anyone who got in their way.
    “Fabian, this is Shiarra Waynest and Sara Halloway. Alec has sent them here to visit
     for a time.”
    The other vampire finally looked mildly interested, one brow quirking. “Is that so?
     You pair are private investigators, yes? I understand Ms. Waynest has caused quite
     a stir back East.”
    I cleared my throat and looked away. “Yes, we are, and that’s why I’m here. Why we
     both are.”
    “Fascinating. ”
    After an awkward pause in which the vampires carefully studied the two of us, and
     with more interest than I liked, Sara stepped forward. “It’s very kind of you to extend
     us your hospitality, but we’re both very tired and hungry after that flight. Is there
     anything we can do for you, or would it be possible for us to get settled in?”
    She had always been more direct than I was. Though I was dismayed to see that Clyde
     was watching us with the intense interest of one who is formulating devious plans
     and won’t be afraid to use them.
    “Just a moment, before you go. I was just discussing with Fabian a little . . . problem
     I have been dealing with. You say you are PIs?”
    Sara and I nodded, though I could tell she was just as wary as I was. This did not
     bode well for us.
    “Excellent. Then I must insist upon your assistance with this matter. Perhaps you
     can help us determine who—or what—has been directing the zombies infesting the area.”
    Sara’s mouth dropped open, as did mine. She recovered her voice more quickly than
     I did, probably thanks to her internship and few months spent as a practicing attorney
     in her parents’ company after she graduated law school.
    “Zombies? Please tell me you’re joking.”
    Clyde’s lips twisted into a smirk. “I’m afraid not. I don’t believe you would be in
     any danger. The creatures have only been attacking the vampires of my bloodline—they
     have not harmed anyone from other lines or with a pulse. If you wish to remain here,
     you can pay your way with your investigative skills. Find me their maker, and I will
     consider that adequate payment for your stay.”
    Sara straightened, folding her arms and assuming the haughty ice-queen look she had
     perfected in her college debate classes. I was still struggling with the whole zombie
     thing, let alone the rest.
    “As we understand it, Mr. Royce has already negotiated the terms of our stay. We’ll
     be happy to take on the job—for our usual fee.”
    I had to hand it to her. She was much better under pressure than I was. Then I realized
     what she was saying and grabbed her arm.