He took the thanks as affirmation that she would call him if she needed it. It was a cold comfort, he would have much rather be there himself… if he hadn’t just proved himself unworthy. Damn his night terrors, and what they had lead to. Damn his silence, which robbed her of a chance to prepare herself and take action against it.
Feeling a hint of anger rising inside of himself at the helpless situation, he sought to bury it as Zee bid him goodnight. She gave agreement to his kiss, and he leaned forward and very gently brushed his lips to her cheek. He made sure to keep his fangs well clear, and the action was slow as not to subtle, and did not linger. As much as he would have liked to.
“Goodnight, little one.” he said back, his voice rich and warm for the moment, a change from the gruff tone he bore normally. He took a step back, but would linger until she was gone from his sight, and only then would he figure out what he was going to do about a den for the next night or two. It would only be for that long, surely?
Bloodletter
