Page 52 of The Immortal’s Mark

Thane scowls as his brother speaks, then snorts. “A vampire-hunting clan, befriending a vampire coven? Who would have thought?”

A what clan?

Thane clears his throat. “You may stay, but refrain from speaking unless instructed.”

“Of course.” Alex bows low, his black hair falling over his eyes.

He rises and climbs the stairs, standing slightly behind Des.

The Immortal gives him a sharp nod in greeting before turning forward and clasping his hands behind his back.

My shoulders slump.

Thane’s behavior has been irrational lately, understandably so, but I’m glad he saw reason. If Alex can sway the witches to help in the hunt for Bella, his presence is absolutely invaluable.

Air moves around me as Gregory steps up to my side. He bends until his lips are centimeters from my ear. His words are the quietest whisper, “You can see more standing in the back.”

My head turns. I lean back when I see how close our faces are and lift my brows.

Gregory holds out a hand, places a finger over his lips with the other, and tilts his head.

I place my palm in his. Cool, pale fingers around my hand. Then he covers my mouth and pulls.

The balcony swirls, and wind tears at my hair. A choked gasp catches in my throat.

I sway on my feet, now standing at the back of the alcove.

Gregory drops his hand from my mouth, but continues to hold onto the other.

“What—”

His finger presses to my lips.

I close my mouth, heart racing, and nod.

He drops his hand with a grin.

Eshe glides across the balcony and positions herself at my side. Her dark eyes narrow on Gregory. He drops my hand and steps away.

I cross my arms and steady my breathing as I stare at the crystal chandelier illuminating the ballroom below.

Gregory is right.

Without the banister in front of me, I have an unobstructed view of the room. I inch back farther into the shadows and sweep my eyes over the Immortal brothers when movement by the doors draws my attention.

Charmian’s auburn hair is piled high, and her chin is lifted regally as she glides into the ballroom. The brothers are not the only ones dressed for the occasion.

The Immortal wears a beautiful, shimmering green gown. Its elegant lace sleeves and encrusted bodice look out of place for a mid-afternoon meeting, but she pulls the look off.

“Forgive my tardiness,” her voice sings through the empty space. “My offspring needed rest after their journey.”

She gestures behind her.

My eyes fly back to the open doors.

Seven individuals in purple cloaks enter the room in a V-formation.

I stagger back. My legs threaten to crumple beneath me. Gregory grabs my elbow to keep me upright.