16
DESPITE EVERYTHING
Jo takes my hand again as we walk out. We get back to the grand entryway and keep going. Jo points out a den and a game room as we make our way down a long hall. Introductions were repeated in both doorways. My nerves jangle knowing I’m in a house full of vampire.
We pass a half-dozen fully decked-out offices. Finally, at the end of the hall, Jo leads me into a large room. She releases my hand to turn on a floor lamp. There’s a long, cushy leather couch the color of roasted chestnuts along one wall and four matching recliners face it, along with a massive corner fireplace. Between the couch and chairs sits a long wooden table set on a huge, fluffy white rug. I want to slip off my shoes and bury my toes in the thick pile. I imagine lying on it in front of a roaring
