Angels and Hunters (Stoker Sisters 2) by Kailin Gow

I look forward to seeing that look of joy on your face day after day as we discover the world together.”
    “You make it sound so romantic, Ashwin. But have you forgotten about Alexis?”
    “Alexis has never had an appreciation for anything more refined than micro-brewed beer. If I’d had the mind to keep any memento from her childhood, it most likely would have been a lacy corset or frilly garter.”
    Shocked, Sadie gasped. “Ashwin!”
    “Are you willing to argue the point?”
    She laughed and knew he was right. “Of course not, but the thought that you could say such a thing.”
    “When was the last time you saw her pick up a book… any book?”
    Sadie bit back a smile. “She joined my book club for a while.”
    “Really?” His tone was more incredulous than intrigued.
    “Of course she wreaked havoc over every encounter and her knowledge of the book that week was dismal. Actually it was non-existent.”
    “You can’t expect everyone to be lured in by mere words the way you and I are.
    “I know. I can’t imagine a life without books, yet Alexis can’t seem to last a day without causing trouble, or at the very least drama.”
    Before she knew what had happened, Sadie found herself crushed against Ashwin’s chest as he pulled her into his arms and squeezed her tight.
    “How I’ve missed you, Sadie. You're a breath of fresh air.” He pressed his lips to her forehead. “And your sister, well, you have no control over what becomes of her, no matter how much you try,”
    Sadie nodded.  “I know.”
    “And you have to be able to find happiness in your own life.” 
    She knew he was right. “Let me read you my favorite passage.” She gently pulled back, but remained snuggly in Ashwin’s embrace. Happiness was at her fingertips as she flipped through the pages, the scent of the paper instantly bringing her back to Stoker Manor.
     
    A scheme of which every part promises delight can never be successful; and general disappointment is only warded off by the defense of some little peculiar vexation.
     
    Ashwin listened, intent, reverent and pensive. “Reading the words off a page is a pleasure in it of itself. To hear those words spoken from your lips is a privilege. Though I do question your choice of passage. Should I read any meaning into it?”
    Smiling, she closed the book and brought it lovingly to her bosom. “I’ve just always thought there was something rather enlightening in her choices of words, in her point of view. Too many times I’ve anticipated promising delights only to be disappointed.”
    “I’ll certainly do all I can to ensure the delights you anticipate in me don’t disappoint.”
    “Oh, Ashwin,” she said. Her heart pounded under the sheer intensity of his gaze. Patting her hand over her cherished Jane Austen, she tried to cool the heat that sizzled between Ashwin and herself. “I can’t thank you enough for having saved this for me.”
    “The book saved my sanity on more than one occasion. I clung to it, knowing that one day I would be able to share it with you. That thought alone kept me together.”
    His eyes suddenly grew somber, dark and thoughtful as he tugged the book from her chest and fingered the slash. “It also literally saved my life.”
    “Jane Austen saved your life?”
    “That night after I left you, she was tucked into my vest. I’d forgotten all about it… that is until that hunter attempted to stake me. He had me. The surprise attack had taken me aback and I was a dead man. When he raised that stake, when I saw the determination in his eyes, I thought I’d never see another day. But your Jane Austen took the brunt of the strike.”
    “Another reason for me to love her,” Sadie said as she snuggled up against Ashwin’s chest.
    “She saved my life, but it’s my love for you that saved me from eternal damnation. I’m no different from all vampires in having a strong fear of that fate.” He pulled her closer, hugging her tight.
    His love