"It concerns the family," Finley said. "And it concerns Pop, who's already made his position clear."
Michael stalked toward us. Being good security, I shifted to block his path to Ethan. He stopped, glared down at me. "Get out of my way."
His tone was laced with hatred, and the magic that spilled off his body was downright contemptuous. The threat began to speed my blood, but I kept my voice calm. We were guests, after all. Welcome or otherwise.
"I'm afraid I can't do that," I said, forcing a light smile. "It's good to see you again, Michael."
His jaw twitched, but he took a step back. "Fine," he said, lifting his hands in the air like a cornered criminal. "But when they fuck up everything, I won't hear a word from you."
He stepped around me and stalked off around the house, leaving the scent of expensive cologne in his wake.
Ethan glanced back at Finley, brow raised.
"Apologies," Finley said, walking forward with a hand outstretched, ready to play peacemaker. He and Ethan shook hands, both of them obviously appraising the other.
"Finley Breckenridge."
"Ethan Sullivan."
"The vampire who made Merit," Finley said. The statement was a challenge, poorly disguised by curiosity and a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.
"I initiated the change," Ethan confirmed. "I saved her from an attack, and I made her immortal. I find she has no complaints." His tone was mild, his expression unperturbed. If he was irritated by the question, he wasn't going to let Finley see it.
Finn flicked a glance at me. "It's good to see you, Merit. If not under these circumstances."
I nodded, the most I was willing to offer considering the attitudes. "I take it Michael's not thrilled we're staying here?"
"Michael and the old man disagree on various things," Finn said, gaze falling on the point where Michael had disappeared into the darkness. "Including having vampires in residence."