Chapter 17

They traveled up several floors to the penthouse apartment, Pierre gripping the railing in fear as the cage moved. The hallway that they reached was private, with no concierge or other residents—Antoine’s was the only door on his floor. Pierre didn’t know whether to find the private, isolated location frightening or not. Antoine opened the door for Pierre and showed him in politely. Pierre looked around himself at a home that was tastefully decorated with art and collectibles from faraway places. Antoine took him into his study, where Pierre looked at the many books lining the shelves as Antoine poured them a couple of absinthes. They sat down in the chairs in front of the hearth as Antoine started up a fire.

“That feels good,” Pierre said with thanks as the intimate room warmed up.

He watched closely to see whether Antoine would drink and saw him sip the cloudy liquid to his relief. Maybe he wasn’t a vampire? He waited for Antoine to speak, but Antoine simply stared pen