Dying to Date(74)

“You also set up the first date.”

“Yes. Our apologies.”

Melissa shook her head. The siren would probably sell her to the necromancers herself if it brought in more business.

“I’d also like to make a personal recommendation of a were-cougar I know. Excellent fellow and no homicidal tendencies to speak of,” Vivian said.

“Exactly what I look for in a man.”

“Whenever you feel like getting back into the business of finding your mate, I’ll be happy to make the introductions.”

“And if I’ve already found my mate? What’s your plan then?”

“I…” The siren’s mouth opened and closed in shock. It would almost be comical if not for the tearing pain in her chest.

“I don’t want another introduction,” she said. “And I don’t want the platinum membership. I’m done with the dating scene.”

She had her charities and her friends. That was enough to fill a few lifetimes at least.

“I understand,” Vivian said, recovering smoothly. “Please let me know if your opinion on the matter changes, and Fated Match will be there to assist you. Otherwise, thank you for your benefaction.”

“Don’t worry, Viv, I’m not going to torch your organization.”

Some of the tension in Vivian’s shoulders eased, though her pleasant expression never changed. “I assure you,” Vivian said. “Our concern is for your well-being, not our reputation.”

“Right.” Melissa rose from her chair. “I trust you will stop flooding my phone with messages now?”

“Cross my heart.”

“If you had one.” The words were a cheap shot, but it didn’t stop the slight tingle of pleasure when the siren’s sharp nails left gouges in her shining desk.

Melissa stepped into the hall, shaking her head. Part of her admired the woman’s entrepreneurial spirit. She was not one to let her business get tarnished without a fight.

“Did Vivian sink her claws into you or the other way around?” Abbey asked, leaning against the open door of her office.

Melissa paused, wondering how she could bypass the other woman without offending her. “Neither,” she replied. “We had a civilized conversation.”

“Better watch out, or she’ll set you up on a date a night, just to bring you back into the fold.”

“I think I can resist her lures.” She started by Abbey only to stop when the human caught her arm.

“Lucian’s worried about you.”

“I’m fine.”

“I’m worried about you. Hell, even Chloe’s worried about you, and sometimes that woman is so damn cheerful you want to hold her down and tell her horrible things about the world.”

“Time heals all wounds,” she said. “And I’m immortal. I’ve got plenty of time to give.”

“Have you talked to him?” Abbey asked.

She shook her head.

Her friend chewed her lip, as she often did when she was debating something. Melissa waited patiently for Abbey to speak.

“Lucian says he fit into the council nicely. They worked out a multi-step plan for phasing necromancers into cities around the country. I think their numbers within the city limits will still be capped and monitored, but it’s a step in the right direction. He’s a good choice to lead them.”

“Good,” she said, looking away from Abbey. “I’m glad it all worked out. His people deserve this chance.” Glancing at her watch, she stared blindly at the tiny hands. “Look at the time. I’ve got to run, or I’ll be late for an appointment.”

“Then I won’t keep you. Just…let me know when you want to get together.”

“Drinks soon,” she lied with a smile. “Tell Lucian I said hello.”

“I will.”

Melissa left Fated Match with a wave to Chloe as she passed by, and stepped out onto the street.

The moon was bright overhead as she made her way to her waiting car. Popping on her sunglasses, she ducked into the vehicle and gave instructions to run straight home. It was one of her rare days off and she had no intention of doing anything other than watching horrible TV and drinking a bottle of wine. Or two.

As the city glowed beyond her window, she let her forehead fall against the glass. Abbey had meant well, but she didn’t want to talk about Tarian. The tearing in her chest hurt too much.

Logically, she understood he’d made a decision he thought was in her best interest. Hell, even Lucian had thanked him for sending her out of the fighting. But Melissa didn’t know if she could forgive his choice. Had he always thought she was weak? That she couldn’t defend herself? When had she ever given that impression?