The Vampire Who Thirsted for a Wolf Read Free Page A

face, obviously considering his suggestion.
    Derek clenched his fists in the fabric of his pants, forcing himself to
    remain completely calm. “It could be a good idea,” Soren finally said.
    “We should continue to pursue the alliance with the vampires, as they
    have indeed been very cooperative this time around.”
    Derek suppressed a sigh of relief. “Then you will permit me to
    go?” he inquired.
    “Yes, you can go. Take Mel with you. She’s been dying to know
    Japan as well, and it’s a bit safer and quieter now.”
    Derek supposed that was true. Since warlock Tyrell Hall had been
    defeated, no other gruesome enemy had appeared on the horizon. The
    Sidhe king, Sterling, was keeping a close eye on his people, and more
    so since the birth of Winter and Corbin’s son, Lamont. Other
    paranormal species had stepped aside, allowing the werewolves to
    deal with their business on their own. The humans remained an issue,
    but the isolated bands of hunters and rebels were nothing compared to
    previous threats Derek’s family had faced.
    True enough, things were far from quiet in the pack. The recent
    controversial matings had stirred things up, causing pack members to
    be particularly unsettled. They were beginning to accept Anson’s

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    Scarlet Hyacinth
    genuine affection for Reed, although Reed’s grandparents still showed
    some reluctance in that regard. Not only that, but Jace and Paris had
    also appeared, and brought a whole new element of peculiarity into
    their world. Nevertheless, Derek believed his dads could handle any
    issue that might come up on their own.
    “I will talk to Yamamoto-sama on your behalf,” Soren continued,
    “and inquire into whether or not he is available. We don’t want to
    intrude if his coven is busy with other things.”
    “You are right, of course,” Derek told Soren. “Thank you, Father.”
    “Don’t thank me yet.” Soren grinned. “Kaname might still say
    no.”
    A part of Derek doubted that. A memory flashed through Derek’s
    mind, that of the first time they’d arrived in Kaname’s coven. They’d
    had a very serious conversation about the Tyrell Hall problem, but all
    the while, Derek hadn’t been able to keep himself from thinking about
    how the vampire elder would look naked. He’d imagined taking the
    man’s clothes off and licking every inch of his body. In spite of
    undoubtedly being at least the age of Derek’s grandfather, Kaname
    didn’t look a day over thirty, and his exotic Asian looks made Derek
    weak in the knees.
    He’d been too aware of his position and his role to risk pursuing
    the attraction. However, he’d sensed Kaname’s interest as well. He’d
    seen it in the way Kaname’s eyes would linger over him, barely
    restrained heat hidden in their dark depths. But Derek was nothing if
    not practical. Kaname’s desire for him could have been nothing more
    than a manifestation of the vampire’s sensual nature. He would wait
    and see what happened before he made any guesses and decisions.
    “I know,” he told his father. “I will understand and respect any
    decision he makes.”
    “Very well, then.” Soren got up, and Derek followed his father’s
    example. “You’re dismissed. Go speak to your sister. I’m certain
    she’ll want to know all about it.”

    The Vampire Who Thirsted for a Wolf
    17
    It seemed Soren also thought Kaname would agree to Derek’s
    visit. Even if his rational side told him to cool it, Derek couldn’t help
    but get excited, already planning his trip and anticipating the moment
    when he’d see Kaname again. He headed toward the door, eager to
    hide from his father’s far too shrewd gaze. He didn’t get the chance to
    make his escape, as Soren’s voice stopped him. “Oh, and Derek?”
    Derek turned at his father’s inquiring remark. “Yes, Father?” he
    asked.
    Soren smiled gently at him, a somewhat uncharacteristic
    expression for him. “Whatever it is you’re looking for, I hope you
    find it. Don’t