Chapter 54

Exhaustion tinged his thoughts, seeping into Matt’s. His arms felt heavy and leaden as they wrapped around Matt, and when Kendra’s light danced across Vic’s face, Matt could see a fine line of blood trickling from one nostril. With a gentle touch, Matt wiped that away. “Vic,” he murmured, kissing his lover again. “You’re worn out.”

Vic nodded and let Matt hold him close. From where she stood some distance away, Roxie cleared her throat, a soft sound that Matt thought just a tad perturbed. ::She doesn’t believe me,::he told Vic, using their mental bond to communicate privately. ::Maybe if you’re up for a little showing off, you could turn on a light or two—::

::The power’s gone,::Vic told him. ::Used up completely. All spent.::

Like Vic himself. He clung to Matt with a desperation born of weariness. “Doesn’t matter,” Matt sighed, kissing his lover’s jaw. “I don’t care if she buys it or not. I just need to get you home and let you rest. Thank you again.”