"So, you're giving me permission to pick up women and feed on them?"
"Yes."
"Jesus, how can you even think I would want that? Do you honestly believe you mean that little to me?"
"I don't want to deny you such a basic need."
He pulled her close and spoke into her hair, "You are denying me nothing. All I want and need is right here in my arms."
"Will you promise me something?"
"Anything."
"If you feel the need to hunt, just do it. Don't fight your urges for me."
He closed his eyes and sighed. "I promise." They stood embraced for a time. Jackson ran his hand through her hair. "Do you want to tell my why your best friend calls you the Ice Queen?"
"Not really."
He chuckled, "Given your understanding at breakfast yesterday, I guess I am going to have to accept that."
"Good."
***
They landed at 10:30 a.m. and arranged the return trip for 8:00 p.m., rented a car and drove to Samantha's house. They barely reached the porch when the door flew open and Sam burst through, arms open wide screeching. She hugged Elisabeth. "It's so good to see you." She spied Jackson and let go. "Well, what have we here?"
"Samantha, this is Jackson."
Jackson extended his hand. Sam took it and moved in close. "You are one hunk of gorgeous."
He laughed, while kissing her hand. "And you are stunning."
Samantha stood at 5'10" with caramel colored skin and curly jet-black hair that fell to the middle of her back. She possessed a regal countenance and carried herself with an easy grace. Still holding Jackson's hand, she brought her attention to his palm. "Let's have a look… hmm, very loyal... and passionate... Liz, I think you have a keeper here." She squinted at Jackson's face. He gave her an engaging grin and winked, eliciting a sexy laugh. "Are those contacts?" She asked.
"Nope."
"Holy shit."
Elisabeth rolled her eyes. "If you're through ogling him, you think we might go in the house?"
"Oh, sorry. Please, come in."
As they entered the house, Elisabeth surveyed the living room. "Where's Nikolai?"
"He's out back. I thought I'd keep him out until you were settled. He's not a fan of vampires."
"Oh, he'll be fine. I'm going to get him." Jackson wasn't sure what to make of this, but followed her. She opened the back door and in bounded a large Borzoi who rushed to Elisabeth and stood on his hind feet, resting his front legs on her shoulders, and then licked her face. "Hi buddy, I miss you too." Upon noticing Jackson, the dog dropped to all fours and approached him slowly. He held out his hand for the dog to sniff, but Nikolai nuzzled his nose into it instead. Jackson scratched his ear and the dog sat, enjoying the attention.