Page 192 of Eternal Craving

I faked disinterest in the letter that he still held. My gaze fell on the painting above the fireplace, a sunrise over the River Thames.

“I’m trying to get to know you.” He handed me the envelope. “Understanding you would help me have a better understanding of myself.” He smiled. “Who’s the letter from?”

Ascertaining whether the seal had been compromised, I opened it and recognized the handwriting.

Jacob stared at me.

I peeled open the cream-colored paper. Had I really been stupid enough to teach Rachel to read and write?

Daumia,

I fell in love with you the moment you rescued me in the cathedral. You made me with your blood; therefore, our connection is deep. I believe it’s your love for me that prevents you from allowing Jacob to become my lover. After all, you turned me, brought me over. To have your approval is all that I desire. Forgive me.

What had she done?

Jacob read my expression. “Is there a problem?”

“Nothing that can’t be sorted.”

I’d nurtured Rachel and gone to great lengths to smooth her transformation, be there for her, and it had backfired. I’d selfishly enjoyed the way she’d stared at me, her admiring smile, and her coy blush. I’d encouraged her.

I looked over at Jacob. “You read the letter?”

“I did.”

I tried to maintain my composure.

Jacob studied my face. “It all makes sense now.”

“I’ve never been romantically involved with her.”

“I’m sorry for doubting you.” He shot me a wary glance. “Rachel clearly has an unsound mind.”

She had always acted a little scatterbrained, but crazy? “I didn’t know how to tell you,” I said with a shrug.

“May I visit her?”

“It’s best if you don’t.”

“Your idea of her taking the sea air, it’s the best thing for her. The blood thing?” Jacob ran his fingers through his hair. “Where do you think she gets her ideas from?”

When I didn’t respond, Jacob continued. “Very often, it’s a stressful event that triggers such an episode.”

I recalled Rachel sucking from those whom she’d seduced, rocking with pleasure as her once willing consort had quickly become an unwilling victim, fading in her arms, and I’d been the one to teach her. I saw Rachel’s bloody smile after her first kill, proud like a child who’d learned a new trick.

A knock at the door made me jump.

Marcus appeared and stuck his head in. “Can I have a word?”

I approached him. “Not a good time.”

“I’ve searched everywhere,” Marcus whispered. “Rachel’s gone and so are all her belongings.”

“Go look for her,” I said. “I’ll follow you soon.”

“Something wrong?” Jacob asked.

I closed the door. “Everything’s just fine.”