Chapter 226

Lance

“Wait here,” I said to Charles when we pulled into the parking lot of Maggiano’s Little Italy and walked in the door at exactly six o’clock. I looked around, and Raif and Selestra were already there, waiting at a table.

“Hello, Mr. Steel!” the hostess said as I approached. “One for dinner today?”

I shook my head, nodding toward Raif and Selestra, draped all over him. “I have a business meeting.” There was no way I was going to tell her that I was meeting old friends. They ceased to be friends long ago.

She nodded. “Very well, then. Right this way.” She led me to their table and laid the menu down. “What can I get you to drink?”

“Bourbon, neat.” Even though vampires couldn’t get drunk because of our regenerative powers, I needed something strong to get through this conversation.

“Make it three,” Raif added. “And put his on my tab.”

“Yes, sir.” She smiled, looking between us. “I’ll be right back.” Then she headed off to do our bidding.

Selestra’s arm was around Raif, but she smile