Baited Blood by Sue Ann Jaffarian

steam like other horny guys his age. And it’s not just the sex. He needs to go dancing, to movies, play sports—all the usual things a guy of twenty-two would do. Even dating. Keleta needs to see that even as a vampire, his life, though bizarre, can still be somewhat normal.”
    “So, you think we’re normal?”
    “I think you all work hard at being as normal as possible.”
    Samuel adjusted in his seat and stared out the window for what seemed like a long time. Madison let him digest what she’d just said. When he turned back to look at her, he said, “I think you’ve made an excellent point, Madison.”
    She was pleased that her idea was well received. “I think Colin should handle that part of Keleta’s adjustment. He’d be perfect at it.”
    Samuel gave it a bit more thought. “I think Colin is an excellent choice. He knows all the hip clubs and activities. And while he’s at it, he can take you with them.”
    Madison frowned. “Are you that determined to pimp me out to Keleta?”
    Samuel’s laugh was as thick and rich as fine coffee. “No, not at all. It’s just that Keleta isn’t the only one who needs to be shown the fun, young side of life.”
    “I have fun,” she protested.
    “Uh-huh.” Samuel took out his cell phone and started sending a text message to someone. “I’m sending Colin a message that you have something important to discuss with him about Keleta.”
    “Me?” Madison’s mouth fell open in protest. “That’s your department. You’re the head vampire. I’m just an assistant—a peon beater.”
    “It’s your idea and a very good one. Take responsibility for it.” Samuel read an incoming message.
    Madison leaned over to try to read the display. “That was fast.”
    “Colin wants to know what time is good for you tomorrow, early in the evening or later?” Samuel glanced at her. “I suggest early. If Colin wants to take Keleta out tomorrow night, there will still be plenty of time after you speak to him.”
    Madison leaned against the back of the leather car seat and crossed her arms in front of her in a sullen display. “Tell him tomorrow, after he rises.”
    “Done.” After a pause, Samuel relayed to her Colin’s next response. “He says to come by his place around seven.”
    “His place?”
    “You know where it is, don’t you?”
    “You know I do.”
    Samuel punched his device, sending the confirmation off to Colin on the other end. “There, it’s all set. His place will give the two of you more privacy for such a delicate chat.”
    Madison thought Samuel seemed way too pleased with himself, and it bugged her.
    When they arrived at the Dedhams’ home, Hyun opened the car door for them. Samuel slipped on his sunglasses and got out first. He offered his hand to Madison, helping her out of the car. He was like that—a frustrating tease one moment, an elegant gentleman the next. He walked her to the door, passing Madison’s car, which was parked in the circular drive.
    “You need a new car,” Samuel told her.
    Madison studied her car. She’d picked it up in Idaho before moving to LA. It was over ten years old, with enough dings and dents to give its finish a pimply look. It ran well enough if she kept watch over it. It had been cheap, and she’d paid cash for it. “Nothing wrong with the one I have.”
    Samuel wasn’t convinced. “You need something more dependable and fitting your position with the council.”
    “I’ve already overhauled my wardrobe at your bidding.”
    “Yes, Colin told me that the two of you went shopping recently. He has quite an eye for the latest fashion, doesn’t he?” He ran his eyes up and down Madison’s usual jeans and sweater. “Though I haven’t seen much evidence of your shopping spree.”
    “Hardly seems necessary to drag out the new stuff when I’m just hanging out or going to school.”
    His eyes moved back to the car. “Why don’t you pick out something you like and let me know. The council will cover