Exton

Some hours later, I stop at Gareth's door and listen. This time there's nothing but quiet, regular breathing to be heard and I rap gently.

"Just a second." A minute later, Gareth opens the door, wrapped loosely in one of the thick bathrobes the old man provided. I can see K'thyri over his shoulder, wrapped in her own tawny skin. She smiles and waves. "Hi, Nick!"

I let my eyes flash red, just once, like Christmas-tree lights and smile, showing just the points of the fangs. "Hi, gorgeous. Mind if I borrow Gareth for a few?"

She giggles throatily. "Depends on what you want to borrow him for. I might not be done with him yet...."

I grin again, this time without the fangs. "I'll have him back to you in a few minutes. Promise." I motion Gareth into the hall and shut the door. "This house you guys found - think you're up to taking me there? Tonight, if possible."

He looks confused, then smiles. "Let me make a couple of calls...."