Embrace the Night

Page 170



lap.

Gabriel tried not to notice how well they looked together, two mortals in the prime of life. He felt a twinge of guilt, knowing without doubt that Sara and Maurice would have been married now if he hadn't returned to Paris. She would have had a chance for a normal existence with Delacroix, he thought bitterly. And yet, stronger than his guilt for intruding on her life was the violent surge of jealousy that spread through him when he saw Delacroix drape his arm around Sara's waist, the gesture blatantly protective.

"Go to bed, Delacroix," Gabriel said. "I'll look after Sara." "If it weren't for you, she wouldn't be in any danger."

Gabriel's eyes narrowed ominously. "Don't you think I know that? Dammit, if I could undo what's been done, I would. But it's too late for that now. Nina won't rest until she has her revenge."

"Why don't you leave Sara alone, get out of her life. If you're gone, maybe that vampire woman will leave her alone."

"Maybe, but it's not a chance I'm willing to take, not when it's Sara who'll have to suffer the consequences if you're wrong."

"You haven't done much to protect her so far," Maurice said.

"Tread softly, Delacroix," Gabriel warned, "else you find two vampires seeking your destruction."

"What if she's changed her mind? What if she decides she no longer wants to spend the rest of her life with a… with you? Will you kill me then?"

In a single fluid move, Gabriel stepped forward and lifted Sara into his arms.

"Go to bed, Delacroix," he said, his voice as hard as flint, as cold as ice. "Get out of my sight now, while you can."

All the color drained from Maurice's face. Body rigid with fear, he stood up and started toward the spare bedroom.

"Delacroix!"

Slowly, Maurice turned around.

"Make sure the doors and windows are secure before you retire." With a curt nod, Maurice exited the room.

"You wouldn't really hurt Maurice, would you?"

Gabriel glanced at Sara. She was staring up at him, a troubled expression on her face. "Have you been awake the whole time?"