Total pages in book: 36
Estimated words: 32116 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 161(@200wpm)___ 128(@250wpm)___ 107(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 32116 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 161(@200wpm)___ 128(@250wpm)___ 107(@300wpm)
“Eventually, they took a hard stance against it, and declared that their association with our kind was over. They would no longer look the other way for our feedings, and vampires would be punished like anyone else for their crimes. Though we were stronger, they weren’t worried about a revolt; they knew our secret. If they told humans about us, we would be clearly outnumbered and possibly eradicated.”
“So…where did the blood come from?” I asked curiously, pointing to my empty glass.
“We had to find another way to feed,” Remy answered. “One that would not endanger humans. The species pulled together and came up with a solution that benefited not only our kind, but humans as well.”
“Blood banks,” Skyler inferred, and Remy smiled with a nod.
I was proud of my mate’s intelligence, but still confused. Luckily, my friend explained, “Humans donate their blood to blood banks for storage, so that hospitals can use it in case of emergencies. Some blood is unfit for human use because of disease, but that does not affect vampires. There is plenty of unusable blood to feed us. Humans benefit as much from the donations as we do. It’s a winning solution for everyone.”
Skyler tapped his chin. “But how do you get the blood from the bank? Wouldn’t you have to tell someone your secret?”
Remy leaned in and told him with a wink, “Vampires founded the banks and still oversee their operation. There is always one of our kind in charge of the disposal of unfit blood.”
“Well, I’ll be damned.” Remy chuckled at my beloved, but listened intently to his next question. “If you no longer feed from humans, and have done so much to help them, why do you stay a secret?”
“It’s safer this way,” he replied as I nodded my agreement. “I mean no offense, but humans are a delicate species.” Skyler merely shrugged. “They could become frightened at our strength and immortality and try to rise against us. Or, they could see it as an opportunity, and try to study us or even use us to fight their battles.
“Even the original police officers kept our identity from their loved ones. After they cut ties with us, generations died off and took our secret with them. Our existence became nothing more than rumors and fantasy. It is better to remain private and live in peace.”
“I get that,” my mate agreed, “It’s just a shame you have to hide.”
“If only the world were as accepting as you are, beloved,” I told Skyler, cupping his cheek in my hand and feeling his answering smile. His acceptance made me think of someone who was anything but. I turned to Remy and asked, “Do you know what became of my father?”
“I’m happy to say I’ve not seen his face since you’ve been gone. It’s also lucky for him; if I’d known what he did to you…” Remy clenched his fist so tightly that all of his knuckles cracked. But his grip and expression softened when he told me, “I do know one thing, though; he sold your home and all of your belongings.”
“That bastard!” Skyler yelled, slapping his hand against the table.
“I'm sorry,” Remy told me with a sullen look. “I didn't find out until the sale was underway, and there was nothing I could do to stop it. I was able to sneak inside before it went through, and I collected all of your cash and valuables you had hidden away.” I'd shown my friend my treasures in case anything ever happened to me; I didn't want it to go to waste. “I've kept it safe, and exchanged the currency over the years to keep it up to date. I’ve also continued your investments, and grown your totals. I never wanted to fully give up hope of your return.”
“Thank you,” I told him with a bow of my head. That was everything I owned. If Remy hadn't secured it, I would have nothing to support my mate. I didn't even have a home to take him to.
“That's great and all,” Skyler cut in, “But what are we going to do about your dad? He got rid of you and then profited from it? That's bullshit! He has to pay. I say we chop off his dick and shove it up his ass - make him as depraved as we are. Then, like he’s done to so many humans, we'll let his blood drain out before we lob off his head. A quick death is too good for him.”
The room went silent as Remy and I stared at my beloved. I was both turned on by his zealous protection of me, and a little frightened by the excitement in his eyes. It was intoxicating.
“What?” Skyler asked innocently.
Finally, Remy blinked and turned his attention back to me. “What are you going to do with your father? Are you going to do…that? Whatever your choice, I'll support you and help in any way you need.”