"I am only saying what you already know."
"That doesn't mean I have to like it."
Viper gave a sudden chuckle. "No, you don't have to like it."
An air of weariness settled about the grim vampire. "Return to your mate, Viper. I will do my duty."
"And you will call if you have need of me?" Viper pressed.
"I will call," he grudgingly conceded.
Content that Styx would indeed do his duty, Viper stepped back and offered a wicked grin.
"You know there are bound to be a few perks to your new position."
Styx frowned. "Perks?"
"There won't be a female vampire around who won't be eager to share the bed of our newest Anasso."
Styx gave a lift of one brow. "I don't need to be the Anasso to have a female in my bed."
Viper laughed as he tossed back his cloak to reveal the intricate tattoo that scrolled along his inner forearm. It was the mark of his mating with Shay.
"Just don't forget that females offer more risk than all the demons put together."
The older vampire regarded Viper as if he feared he had lost his mind.
'That's a risk I need never fear, old companion. There are some of us who are wise enough to avoid such obvious traps." he said with absolute conviction.
Viper merely smiled, remembering his own firm belief that he would never be foolish enough to become mated.
"You do know what they say, my friend. The best laid plans, of mice and vampires ..."
***THE END***