He laughed. "That's true. Most everyone is afraid to even look at me, but not you. That's what I love about you." He reached across the table and intertwined his fingers with mine.
"When do you want me to visit her?"
"In the morning. First you have to follow her around and get to know her schedule. Then, when you find an opportune time, talk with her. See if she knows anything. We'll go from there and I'll figure out a good plan. We have to be careful, you know. The stakes are high. Very high."
I nodded. "You don't have to tell me."
"Should we go on a hunt first? I'm going to need to be filled up on blood before I walk into a town full of people."
He shook his head. "I won't have time to join you. There's much I need to do; taking over the entire ruling establishment is an exhaustive process. Why don't you leave a little early so that you can feed first?"
"It's more fun with you, but whatever."
"Look, Samantha. I don't need a guilt trip."
I batted my eyelashes. "I'm not giving you a guilt trip, Vince baby. Why would I do that?"
He squeezed my hand. "The sun will be up soon. You should get ready." He stood up and pulled me into his arms, kissing me. He moved to my ear and whispered, "I'll see you soon. Do you need anything before you go?"
"I could use some money," I said, running my fingers along his face. "Oh, and her location would be nice too."
He smiled. "Talk to Adam on your way out."
"Adam?" I asked, pouting. He was sending me to his secondhand man.
Vince kissed me again. "He knows to give you whatever you ask for."
"You'll be here when I get back?"
"Of course. You know I don't go far. It's much easier to scare everyone when I remain hidden. Mystery feeds fear."
"That it does. Hopefully I'll be back before dark, but don't be surprised if I'm not. I have no idea what I'm walking into."
He nodded. "Certainly. Have fun," he said, eyes sparkling. "Should I let Adam know that you're on your way?"
"Not just yet. I'm going to change my clothes first. I'm not going to be able to blend in with high schoolers dressed like this."
Vince stepped back and looked me over, hungrily eying my clingy evening gown which had a high slit and matching stilettos. "No, you won't. You'll have to save that dress for our next date."
I licked my lips. "Will do," I said, holding his eye contact.