Hes still a work in progress, but I think hes come along well. I saw him wave and give me a look that meant come on up. Flo was laughing at something Richard was whispering in her ear. My stomach twisted. How was I going to get her to give up her necklace? And would just returning it satisfy that bloodthirsty family now?

Theyve set a date, New Years Day. Youll come with me to the wedding, wont you, babe? Rafe pulled Lacy to him, sliding his arm around her waist.

Sure. She looked up at him, clearly more than a little in love.

One of Lacys sisters was standing right down the bar from her, watching us. Lace had several sisters, brothers too. I wondered what they thought of her relationship with a shifter who wasnt a member of the cat family.

Of course Lacy and all of my shop crew will be invited. I smiled and gestured toward the balcony. Now I need to go on up.

Wait a minute. Seems like we hardly ever see each other. Me working days, you nights. Lacy sipped a gla.s.s of what looked like water. Do you remember my sister DiDi? she said when her sister moved closer.

Sure. Nice to see you. When a waiter waved at Rafe. he murmured an excuse and left. There goes your date. Its not easy dating the club owner, is it, Lace?

No. Her shoulders slumped. Our dates are never uninterrupted when were here. Its a good thing She glanced at her sister. Well, guess I might as well let the cat out of the bag, so to speak.

What? DiDi glanced at me. She called me over here with news. You still have a job, dont you, Sis?

Sure. But I lost my apartment. Mr. Blade evicted me. Hes making a giant place for Glory and him on the second floor of our building. So I had to make other arrangements. Lacy smiled suddenly. Rafe and I are living together now. Isnt that great?

DiDi hissed and I swear her hair rose a good three inches. I backed up a step. Are you nuts? Mom will kill you. DiDi signaled the bartender. Tequila, a double.

I think thats great. I kissed Lacys cheek. Congratulations. Thats a big step. There had been a time when Id been Rafes number one. But now hed obviously found a way to move on. I was happy for him.

Dis right. Mom is going to stroke out. Shifters and were-cats? Thats a non-starter for Mom-cat. Lacy leaned against the bar. Shes been planning my wedding for years, but I wont accept any of the mates shes picked out for me. Boring tabbies or randy alley cats. No thank you. But Rafe She sighed, her eyes dreamy. I know you wont kiss and tell, Glory, but you should understand. Rafe is so much more than just a shifter. Hes, um, special.

DiDi downed one of her shots, then signaled for another. Girl, you are unleashing a s.h.i.tstorm. Warn me when you go to tell Mom. I want to be out of town.

I just stared at Lacy. Remembering. Yes, Rafe was special. But Id let him go and made my choice"the man who waited for me upstairs. I patted Lacys shoulder. Said something encouraging and headed up. I couldnt keep every guy Id ever wanted on a string forever. They had to move on because I sure had.

Flo smiled when I slipped into a chair next to Jerry. Let me see your ring again, mi amica. I have been telling Jeremiah. A woman should have good jewelry. If he hasnt bought you a Christmas present yet, he should add to your collection. It is your security, no?

Gloriana doesnt have to worry about that now, Florence. Shes finally agreed to let me take care of her. Jerry dropped a kiss on my lips. Dont hurt me now. You know what I mean, sweetheart.

Yes. I get it, Jer. Well be equal partners in this marriage. And you dont have to buy me a boatload of jewelry to prove your love. I snuggled against him.

Hush, Glory. A wise woman never turns down good jewelry. Who knows what the future might hold? As I say, security. We must take care of ourselves. Flo held my fingers and studied my diamond. Ricardo understands this and is happy to make me feel loved with his generosity. She dropped my hand and kissed Richard to prove her point. He didnt seem to mind her frank talk.

Security. I wasnt familiar with the concept. Jerrys arm tightened around my shoulders. He knew how I felt. Id struggled against being dependent on anyone, even him, but some part of me craved never having to worry about my next meal, a roof over my head, safety. Jerry offered me that feeling. Flo had Richard and yet she still h.o.a.rded jewels just in case.

I swallowed some of the synthetic blood with alcohol in the drink Jerry had ordered for me. It did little to chase away the cold in the pit of my stomach. Flo was never going to give that necklace away willingly. Still, I was going to try honesty first. Ask her to give it up. If that didnt work? Well, then Id have to deceive my best friend. Not easy around a mind-reading vampire.

Chapter Three.

What was going on down there? Jerry kept his arm around me. Lots of hugging and drinking going on.

Lacy moved in with Rafe. Theyre officially a couple now. I was happy about that. Her sister? Not so much. I picked up the gla.s.s of blood with alcohol again. Mmm. Thanks, I needed that.

You sure it didnt bother you that Valdez has moved on? Jerry watched me closely. Jealousy?

No, not that. Driving over here was a little nerve-wracking. Right, Flo? I looked to her for help.

Yes! Everywhere we go there are crazy drivers. I wonder if Glory should be driving one of those big SUBs. Her little car would be squashed like a bug if a truck hits her. Flo smacked her hand on the table for emphasis.

I think you mean SUV, darling. Richard rescued her drink when it almost spilled. And I know what you mean. The freeways are chaos. I hate the idea of either of you in a small car out there.

Do you want a bigger car, Gloriana? Ill buy you one. Jerry slid his hand down my arm, keeping me from picking up my gla.s.s again. I realized Id already almost drained it. You seem a little rattled. What happened?

Oh, it was nothing. Just an eighteen wheeler getting a little close, thats all. I patted his hand. As an excuse, I thought it worked. I was blocking my thoughts. No reason for him to see I was really upset about Flo. Dont you dare buy me a car. I dont want to drive one of those enormous things. I cant even climb into one without showing the world my underwear when Im in a short skirt.

Jerry grinned. I dont mind seeing your underwear. But not sure I want the world to have the privilege.

Flo was eyeing me. She knew I was covering up something"the meeting with Miguel for sure. Well, I dont want one either. Both of us look very good in our little convertibles when we put the top down. Now I got Glory here to you. Tell us about your surprise. What have you two been up to?

We scouted some wedding venues. And I think we found the perfect one. Richard pulled a thin laptop from a leather messenger bag I hadnt noticed hanging from the back of his chair. Take a look. He quickly brought up a page. I had to admire his computer speed. My laptop was old, overloaded and took forever just to boot up.

Oh, Glory, look. Its like a Tuscan villa perched on a hilltop. Flo turned the screen toward me. It would be most romantic at night, with the lights of Austin twinkling in the distance.

Wow. What is this place? I stared at the picture. It was a villa, a perfect replica of one that you might see in Italy. Of course their website showed it sparkling in the sun but there were a variety of pictures of weddings by candlelight on the terrace and one next to a waterfall. Jerry! What do you think?

I think Id marry you next to a cactus in Death Valley. But this place was actually great. Richard and I shifted out there. It has an old world feel I liked, even though someone built it fairly recently. I think we can get it New Years Day. Ill book it if you think itll do. He scooted his chair next to mine. Is this really happening? Are you actually going to commit to me this time?

Yes. And this place is perfect. I tore my gaze from a slide show of weddings with glowing brides and happy grooms taking vows beneath a canopy of stars. Grabbing Jerrys hands I looked into his eyes and showed him my thoughts. I wanted this, wanted him. And I didnt doubt it was time to make this happen.

Ill call them and confirm. Richard had his arm around Flo. As best man its the least I can do. Look at them, Florence. Theyre actually acting like a happy couple.

Yes. I am thrilled. Flo touched a c.o.c.ktail napkin to her eyes. Im going to throw you a shower that will drown you in presents, mia amica. What kind you want? Lingerie? Or more practical things? I lived with you, remember? Your towels? Rags, I say.

Were running out of time, you know. But thats a sweet thought. I let go of Jerrys hand. Richard had stepped away from the table and was on the phone. I was surprised the venue was open this late but I guess if they were hosting a wedding tonight, they would be.

Ill manage. Make a guest list and leave the rest to me. Flo typed something on the computer, and I had to admit I was surprised she even used one. Im going on-line now. You must register everywhere. Have you done it?

Uh, no. I glanced around to make sure no mortals could hear us. I mean what does a vampire need? Dishes? Certainly not pots and pans. It seems silly"

Silencio! Nothing about marrying your soulmate is silly. Am I right, Jeremiah? She gave Jerry a look that dared him to disagree.

No, of course not. This is going to be the most important night of my life. He kissed my lips.

Jerry! I had to admit Id been hanging back, letting him see to details I should have been more involved with. Its important to me too. Thank you. Im sure it will be perfect. I touched his cheek, savoring the texture of his evening beard.

It will be if I have anything to do with it. Jerrys smile worried me. I knew that look. He was up to something. I have another surprise for you, Gloriana. Look. Jerry got to his feet. Here he comes now.

When I saw who was sauntering up the stairs, I poked Jerry in the arm. You didnt!

Oh, yes, I did. Meet your wedding singer. Jerry rubbed his bicep though I knew he considered my feeble hit a love tap. Ow. I think you bruised me.

Good. I met the man at the top of the stairs. Ray! Why?

Israel Caine, nickname Ray, pulled me into a hug that turned Jerrys grin into a frown. Why am I here? How could I miss your wedding? I have to be there in case you come to your senses and decide to bolt. Ill help you get away. We can shift to Tahiti and lie naked on a beach together. Ray ignored my efforts to put some s.p.a.ce between us. When your fiance asked me to sing..? Ray finally let me go with a pat on the b.u.t.t. Hey, nothing I like better than singing to you, babe.

Maybe this wasnt such a good idea. Jerry jerked me to his side.

Oh, no. I love it. It will make the night just perfect. I sent my man a mental message to let me go. Jerry put out his hands, giving me some s.p.a.ce. You started this and you should have remembered that Israel Caine doesnt do anything without att.i.tude.

You so get me, sweet thing. Ray grinned and pulled out a chair. His dont give a s.h.i.t att.i.tude this time didnt fool me one bit. He was a little steamed, but he wasnt about to let Jerry see it.

You dont have to do this, Ray. I know youre a busy man. I knew he wasnt nursing a broken heart and neither was I. We were friends and had settled that a while back.

Never too busy for you, Glory girl. If you are determined to marry this throwback to the dark ages, then Ill sing whenever and whatever you want. He winked at me, letting me know he was enjoying pulling Jerrys chain.

Good to know. I moved over to stand behind Jerry when he sat down again, my hands firmly on his shoulders. I could feel the tension in them. He was right to be jealous of Ray. What on earth had possessed him to drag the singer into this?

I say we make it a duet. Ray sat down and motioned to a waitress. She knew what he liked. Every waitress at N-V was half in love with him and had been since hed performed there the first time. He and Rafe werent best buds, but since Ray had made Austin one of his homes, he liked to try out new songs at this club that catered to vampires. Rafe wasnt about to turn down good business, and a famous rock star brought in the bucks.

I was Rays mentor. It had taken him a long time to come to terms with the vampire life since hed been turned against his will. Now he was mentoring his own fledgling vampire. Payback was a b.i.t.c.h as they say.

A duet? Maybe. Is Sienna still in town? A duet with her would be better. As the bride Ill be pretty busy. I settled into my chair again since Jerry had calmly picked up his drink and hadnt made a move for one of his knives. Sienna Star was the new vampire Ray was now responsible for. Id turned her, but Ray had accidentally drained her. That had left him stuck with her as far as I was concerned. I hated making new vampires and Sienna hadnt exactly embraced her new role, not without causing problems.

Yes, shes here. And giving me fits. Shed still like nothing better than to out all vampires. If the label hadnt threatened to pull her next alb.u.m, Im afraid shed already have had a press conference about it. Ray leaned back in his chair. Youre right. I should bring her to the wedding. Work up a duet with her.

He smiled as the waitress set his gla.s.s in front of him. No alcohol for him, he was a recovering alcoholic. At least I hoped he was still on the wagon. I casually picked up his gla.s.s and sniffed.

Hey, you dont have to do that. Im still clean. Siennas giving me enough s.h.i.t that I need a clear head.

I relaxed and handed him back the drink, synthetic blood and the highest quality. Sorry. You know I worry about you.

Can we get on with our plans? Jerry practically growled. Gloriana certainly doesnt need to sing at her own wedding. Caine, you and Sienna Star doing a duet. Perfect. Right, darling? He slung his arm around me in a death grip.

Yes. Ill have enough to worry about that night. I have to look as good as possible and then there are those out-of-town guests to entertain. I grimaced. Flo, what are you doing?

Registering you. Give me a color for the bathrooms. And bedroom linens. This is such fun. Her eyes were shining. Ricardo, I think I divorce you and we do it again. Marry. I didnt register last time. I want to do this.

No, darling. Youre stuck with me. Richard was grinning as he put away his phone. We have New Years Day at eleven pm. Now you can order invitations. Ill email you the details, Gloriana.

Stick with neutrals, Flo. Sheets too. No satin. I glanced at Ray, some memories surfacing. Too slippery.

Neutrals are boring. Ricardo, you love my pink sheets, dont you? Flo teased her husband as she filled in a bridal registration for me. I just sat back and listened. Ray was goading Jerry, suggesting songs that he knew my Scot would hate sung at his wedding. One was Glory Girl, a song Ray had written just for me. If Ray even hinted that he and I had been together once Id never told Jerry about that. My nerves suddenly got the best of me.

Stop it! I dont even know the difference between a fingertip towel and a hand towel. And who cares whether its ecru or beige? Youre right, Flo, theyre both boring but I cant make a decision right now. Ray, sing something romantic. You should know what I like. And quit trying to make Jerry pull out one of his knives. I jumped up. Come on, Flo. Ladies room. Now. Marriage. Id run from it for four hundred years. Why? I dont know. Fear of monogamy forever? I wasnt a s.l.u.t but the idea suddenly sounded overwhelming. The four of them stared at me when I grabbed Flos arm.

But Im only halfway done, amica.

Looks like a case of nerves to me. Second thoughts, Glory? Ray chuckled. Oh, h.e.l.l, hed put this on Jerry and thered be a fight. I didnt care. I needed to talk to Flo.

Flo has lipstick on her teeth. And we need to talk about colors before she commits on this registry. Its an important decision. Right, Flo?

She didnt hear me. She was scrubbing her front teeth with her index finger.

How long? Oh, I hate to see anyone with lipstick on a tooth. It is so ugly. Flo kept muttering as she let me drag her with me.

At the bottom of the stairs, I finally let go. Not the ladies room. Rafes office. I can see hes at the bar with Lacy. Come on. Flo just followed me through the crowd on the dance floor to where I knew Rafe kept a soundproof office. I could feel her studying me. The lipstick story had obviously not held up when shed seen her finger come away clean.

Is not nerves, is it, Glory? she said as soon as I closed us both inside. You love Jeremiah. I know you are ready to marry him.

Yes, I am. But I want you there, by my side. I grabbed her shoulders and shoved her into a chair. I was telling the truth. I was actually ready for monogamy. But this Flo thing? I couldnt just sit around drinking and picking out linens when I had a life and death issue unresolved.

Hey, what are you doing? Flo dragged my hand off of her. You almost ripped my dress.

Sorry. I paced the floor in front of her. Straight talk. That was the only way to deal with this. Did someone contact you about your necklace? The one that belonged to Marie Antoinette?

What? How do you know..? She looked up from examining her sleeve. Okay so Id gotten a little rough. But I hadnt ripped anything. Did that Cisneros say something? She jumped up, b.u.mping into me because I was standing too close. Hes a hit man. Have they put out a contract on me? Madre de Dios! She crossed herself and began speaking rapid Italian.

Slow down. Speak English. Obviously you know what Im talking about. I sank into one of the two leather chairs across from Rafes messy desk.

Of course I do. These people. They call me. Dont ask how they get my number. It is unlisted. She threw up her hands, muttering more Italian. Non e importante. Anyway, they call me. Start making demands. Like I have to give up my beautiful necklace that Ricardo paid good money for. She sank into the chair next to me. I tell you. Why should I listen to them?

Because now they want to kill you, Flo. I grabbed her hand. Miguel is trying to go straight. Give up the killing game. But they didnt know that. Apparently they just knew he was the go-to guy in this area of the country and he has a, I swallowed, sick at the thought of what this meant, good reputation for getting the job done. Anyway, they contacted him when you wouldnt play ball. They put out the contract. As a favor to me, he said hed look into it.

You mean he took their money. Flo gripped my hand until I had to pry away her fingers. She was hurting me. Couldnt blame her.

Hes trying to help me save your life, buddy. Listen to me. The first thing we have to do is return that d.a.m.ned necklace.

No. Her mouth was set in a firm line. They have no claim. I knew Marie. She got the necklace as a gift from an admirer. The Maurys must have sold it to him. Now they want it back? Too bad for them.

No, Flo. Too bad for you. Id say the admirer must have stolen it. The man who sold it to you wasnt supposed to let it go. Hes been, uh, punished.

Saul? What have they done to him? I have been buying jewels from him for years. For the first time Flo actually looked upset. He is a kind man. I forced him to sell to me. Once I saw the piece Well, I remembered it. Had to have it. Marie and I were friends. Yes, she was silly, but had a kind heart. What they did to her It has haunted me. She looked around and grabbed a paper towel from a stack next to the door to dab at her eyes. So long ago. Youd think Id get used to losing my mortal friends.

Focus, Flo. I dont like losing friends either. But be sensible. Give the necklace back. Its only a thing. It certainly doesnt bring your friend back. And it might not satisfy these people either since youve really p.i.s.sed them off.

Flo tossed down the wadded up towel. Well, theyve p.i.s.sed me off too. She took a steadying breath, her eyes blazing as she jumped to her feet. Are they vampire? Id like to see them come after me themselves. Hiding behind hit men. Pah! We will see how brave they are. I call Saul. See if he is okay. I take revenge if he is not.

Are you going to tell Richard about this? I knew I would if she didnt. Surely hed talk some sense into her.

Flo narrowed her gaze on me. Why do you ask? The necklace is mine. You make a big deal about independence. Am I right? Should I run to Ricardo with my little problem?

Its not a little problem. And Richard could help us solve it. Get real, Flo. We have to appease these ruthless people. Whats all this talk about revenge? For a p.a.w.n shop owner in Paris? You have to save your own b.u.t.t first, girlfriend. Dont you get that?

Us? It is not us in trouble, Glory. It is me. Stay out of it. I will take care of the matter. She stomped to the door and kicked it. The fact that she was probably damaging her high-heeled boots was evidence that she was truly upset. I appreciate the warning. I do. But I am not returning the necklace. Tell your friend Miguel, the hitman, to deliver that message to those people. And, if you are truly my friend, you will not breathe a word of this to Ricardo. Are we agreed?

I cant" The look in her eyes stopped me cold. My happy Italian had a dark side and I didnt want to mess with her.