Sins of the Undead Patriot by a.c. Mason Page A

concern.
    Vaihan smiled. “You were about to tell me of your week.”
    “Ah, yes. A friend of mine, someone I’ve known a long time, named Rowley.” His expression appeared unchanged. “He was very upset about me going on a date with you.” She bit her bottom lip and held her breath waiting for his reaction. A knot twisted in her gut.
    Vaihan pushed the lock button on the door. “Did you reassure him you only agreed to see me to prove how different we are?” His hand slid to the handle, then went back to the steering wheel.
    Had he just checked the locks? Probably not. Get a grip.
    He pulled onto the road. “With no long-term potential. Did you note how soon our date would be a distant memory?”
    She had attempted to assure Rowley that it was just one date. “No, as that would be untrue and if it were my reason, I would have canceled because I wouldn’t lead you on. I enjoyed your brief yet memorable company, and I want to see if that continues.” She had to give him something, and most of it was true. Peter’s freedom was on the line. It didn’t hurt that Vaihan’s presence brought her a measure of happiness. Her emotional state hadn’t driven Vaihan away. And he was using her to get to Peter, so what did she have to feel guilty about?
    “This friend’s approval matters to you?” He pressed the lock button again.
    Something was definitely up with the locking and relocking. “Yes, he is important to me.” The truth was, Rowley was imperative to Peter’s future.
    The heat of Vaihan’s touch moved up her arm to her neck, and a flush burned her skin. Her lips trembled as she forced a smile. His touch affected her, and she barely knew him.
    “Then I shall work to gain this individual’s respect.” He reached over and took her hand in his.
    If only that were an option. “That isn’t possible.”
    Withdrawing his caress, he returned to steering. “I’m going to need to build up your faith in my abilities.” Vaihan smiled, warming his expression.
    Her lack of faith was in no way a reflection of Vaihan’s skills, but rather an evaluation of Rowley’s hatred for undead. He’d founded the Coalition of the Living, COTL. An organization with the sole purpose of ensuring zombies weren’t welcome in America as they were in the rest of the world.
    “I’ve lost you in those deep thoughts of yours.” Vaihan pulled up in front of the restaurant entrance.
    The valet opened his door. Vaihan strode to her side and held his hand out for her.
    Le Mouton was one of the few establishments that catered to both living and undead patrons. These types of restaurants had two kitchens–one for making human food and the other for making zombies’ fare.
    “Good evening, Mr. Louchian, your table awaits.” The elder doorman cleared the way.
    Despite the fact that she was a case to Vaihan, he’d brought her to a place he frequented. Was it because... No, she refused to spend the entire night analyzing everything he did.
    “Just over here.” Vaihan looped a hand around her waist, fingers resting on her hip.
    Warmth shot up her core. Her nipples hardened and she gasped. What wondrous power he had over her! There wasn’t anything wrong with her, enjoying being wined and dined. He was the government agent, not her.
    The cozy corner booth by the river’s edge was bathed in soft lighting. The round oak table glowed. Outside, large snowflakes cascaded from the sky and the moon peeked through dark clouds.
    Leera stepped up onto the elevated vacant rear section then removed her coat, which Vaihan handed to the doorman. She slid into the high-backed, caramel-colored leather seat.
    “First snow of the year.” He smiled, sitting next to her.
    She nodded. “It’s very pretty.” Romantic, for a first date. Not that he controlled the weather, but somehow it gave the evening an added layer.
    A waiter approached with two menus in hand. “I’m Aaron. I’ll be looking after you this evening. I’ve brought our human menu,