Victoria would feel better if James went with Sylvia who knew the town and that the Wynters did not suspect her movements yet. She seemed satiated with that answer and relented with a nod at both Sylvie and her brother. “Very well. Maybe that is the best chance we have.” Thinking back to the moment she and Vail met Ray in the alleyway whom thought she was in need of rescuing from Vail when she had lured him out on purpose and the three injured each other. They had come a long way since then and Ray had helped her escape Gerald’s mad plans and the diabolical Spencer. If it weren’t for him, she and Vail wouldn’t have even seen each other. He helped the couple to be as close as they were now. As if he were cupid. She felt as though she owed Ray and felt obliged to help him if he were in trouble.

“Then it’s settled. We ride out at first light. Perhaps we can obtain more intel on the Wynters’ movements.” James concurred with a charming smile to ease Victoria’s anxiety. The Lady Crest conceded to her brother’s plan. James shot a wink at Vail as Victoria looked away. It was his job to protect his little sister. He knew Vail was grateful for his assistance in keeping her from harms way. He saw the way Vail was so worried over her lifeless body, pining for her to wake up. Despite all the odds, Victoria came back to him. Their love must have been strong to allow such a miracle. 

“Then there is little else we can do but to celebrate the return of our chere Victoria and dine together as a united clan. Let us enjoy each other’s company before we bid my son and Lady Macey a temporary farewell. Diana’s sister has prepared a feast that would even satisfy a vampire.” Francois suggested as Victoria eyed him over. Was he trying to play the doting stepfather now?

“I trust everyone is well enough fed to compose themselves around Victoria’s mortal family?” Francois took a patriarchal role on behalf of the Crests. “Lady and Lord Hygrace you are welcome to join us if you feel up to it.” He extended the invitation to Vail’s parents, though he doubted they would join them and pretend to play happy families with the Moncourier-Crest clan, where one of their offspring was a half breed and the other one was a turned mortal. Whether they liked it or not Vail chose Victoria and wanted to be with her. If he was serious about it then one day she would be his wife and they would have to accept it.

Francois led the way back to Victoria’s aunts manor house. James offered his arm to Sylvie to escort her to dinner.