When I walked back in, Leila was sitting on the couch, sipping her blood, and in dire need of a nap. "I phoned Amy while you were out," she said. "She can see me tomorrow." Then, she thought for a moment. "When are you going back to work?"

I picked up my long-stemmed glass filled with blood, sat down beside her, and took a sip. "Not until you and Jase are settled." I slid my arm around her and looked into her eyes. "I want to make sure that you're safe first."

"But what ...