"I was looking for Styx. Do you know where I can find him?"
"He has left the estate."
"Do you know when he will return?"
"No."
"I see."
Darcy couldn't deny a flare of disappointment. Which was nearly as scary as the vampire standing before her. Even a woman who tried to think the best of everyone shouldn't be pining for the man holding her prisoner.
That was crazy. Just... crazy.
Chapter Seven
The trail from Darcy's bedroom to the dilapidated hotel wasn't particularly difficult to follow. That didn't, however, do anything to ease Styx's smoldering temper.
Salvatore had invaded his lands and put his filthy hands on Darcy.
Styx wanted blood.
Werewolf blood.
That was the only thing on his mind.
Or it was until he caught the unmistakable scent of vampire.
Hastily clearing his mind, Styx slipped into the shadows of a nearby alley, his dagger in his hand.
As the ruler of vampires, he was above petty duels and the occasional clan wars that still erupted. That didn't mean, however, that a rogue vampire might not decide his leadership skills could be improved by a stake through the heart. He ruled with an iron hand, and there were more than a few of his subjects who were not always pleased with his laws.
Ah, the pleasures of being king.
Styx was braced to strike when the vamp came close enough for him to recognize the familiar scent. With a muttered curse, he slipped the dagger back into his boot and stepped from the shadows to confront his aggravating friend.
"Viper." He planted his hands on his hips. "What a less than pleasant surprise."
Coming to a halt, the silver-haired vampire offered a deep bow. He should have looked ridiculous in the gold satin jacket that fell to his knees and black velvet pants, but, as always, the demon managed to appear utterly elegant.
"Good evening, ancient one."
"Don't call me that," Styx growled. "What are you doing here?"
"Would you believe that I just happened to be in the neighborhood?"
"Not for a minute."
"Fine." Viper stepped forward, his expression smoothing to somber lines. "I'm here because of you."
"How did you know I would be here?"
There was a beat before Viper gave a small shrug. "DeAngelo was concerned."
"He contacted you?" Styx gave a sharp shake of his head. He had turned each of the Ravens himself. Their loyalty was above question. "No. He would not dare."
"What choice did he have?" Viper demanded. "You left the estate in an obvious temper without taking one of your guards with you."
In a temper? Styx stiffened at the insinuation. He never lost his temper. And if he did, no one would be capable of detecting his mood. He would never lower himself to stomping about in some sort of childish snit.