Tremble: The Night Roamers, #2

By Kristen Middleton

Written by NY Times Bestselling Author, Kristen Middleton.

Duncan goes missing after a confrontation with Ethan, who claims to be innocent. Nikki doesn't know what to believe but knows that things aren't adding up. Meanwhile, a new club has opened in town and the owner is holding some deadly secrets.

Books in Order:
Whisper
Tremble
Deception
Penance
This is a vampire fantasy story (vampire pnr) with adult content. Recommended for mature readers due to intimate scenes and discussions.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Dark Shadows Publishing
• Release date: Mar 3, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393845201

Kristen Middleton

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kristen Middleton (K.L Middleton) has written and published over thirty-nine stories. She also writes gritty romance novels under the name, Cassie Alexandra.

Book preview

Prologue

HIP-HOP MUSIC PULSATED throughout the dark club as Ashley followed Jenny through its crowd of undulating bodies. Both girls were heading toward the bar where Jenny was set on buying her first Sex on the Beach using her new fake driver’s license. Both seventeen-year-olds had received them from Creepy Curt Hammer before seventh period gym class the day before. Curt could get anything and everything you needed.

For a price.

His price wasn’t yet known to the girls, but his presence at the club tonight would be certain. He’d practically begged them to show.

Don’t forget to meet me outside of the V.I.P. lounge at Club Nightshade, ten o’clock, he’d reminded them as they were leaving Jenny’s locker earlier in the day.

Jenny had gushed with excitement. "Are you serious, Curt? How in the hell did you pull that off?"

Let’s just say that I have friends in high places, he’d replied with a tight smile.

Nightshade was a brand new club that had opened in Shore Lake. Everyone at school was hyped about it. Tuesdays were officially Teen Night, but weekends were supposed to be lit. If you could find a way to get in, you’d have the chance to experience some really intense partying. Now, it was almost ten o’clock as Ashley held onto Jenny’s belt loop, trying not to lose her friend through the tangle of bodies. Before they cleared the packed crowd, however, someone grabbed her by the elbow, forcing her to stop, breaking her connection with Jenny.

Jenny! she called to her friend, who was already disappearing through the rowdy crowd.

Hey, sweet-thing, how about a dance? a deep voice rasped into her ear.

She turned toward the guy and swallowed.

Scary.

His bald head was covered with skull tattoos and he had a single silver ball pierced just below his bottom lip. His breath reeked of liquor and the smell of pot surrounded him.

She stepped back and swallowed. Um...no, but thanks, anyway.

His smile turned cold. Why not? You think you’re too special or something?

No... please... I’m just trying to follow my friend, she replied anxiously."

He grunted. Your loss.

Very doubtful, she thought, noticing the long, ragged scar under his chin. He was definitely trouble.

Ashley turned around and pushed through the crowd until she reached Jenny, who was already at the bar.

Oh, there you are. I ordered for you, she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Relieved to find her, Ashley flipped her dark hair over her shoulder, and smiled. Okay, thanks.

What happened to you? I thought I’d lost you there for a minute.

Some guy tried asking me to dance.

Jenny’s eyes lit up. Was he hot?

Before Ashley could answer, the guy in question parked himself onto the stool right next to them.

He smirked. This seat taken?  

Jenny shrugged. Actually, we aren’t staying, so you can do whatever you want with it.

He took a swig of his beer. Bummer. I bet you could use some company.

"We’re not looking for it," Jenny replied.

His eyes hardened. You know, it isn’t safe in a club like this for two little girls such as yourselves. It can be pretty dangerous if you’re not careful.

The bartender interrupted before either girl could respond. He slid their drinks across the bar and said, Drinks are on the house. Also, the V.I.P. is upstairs. They’re waiting for you.

Jenny and Ashley looked at each other and smiled in delight. Not only had they scored big in getting into the nightclub, but they were also guests in the V.I.P. lounge.

It was, a dream come true.

That guy was such a creeper, Jenny whispered as he finally took the hint and moved toward another conquest, a bleached blond cougar, sitting alone at the other end of the bar.

Ashley nodded, relieved that he’d moved on. Something had been really off about that guy, making her skin crawl.

Jenny took a sip of her drink and motioned for Ashley to follow her up the stairs. When they reached the top, Curt was standing outside of a private room, looking a little tense.

Good, you made it, he said, noticing them.

Hell yeah we made it. Jenny took another drink of her cocktail. We wouldn’t miss this for the world.

Glad to hear. Curt waved her in. Lead the way, Jenny.

Don’t mind if I do. She stepped through the entrance and disappeared inside.

Mm...you’re looking hot tonight, Ashley, Curt said, leering at her.

She shivered as his beady eyes raked over her tight shimmery black dress. Well, ah...thanks, Curt.

His eyes stopped at her cleavage. After you.

She stepped past him and entered the dimly lit room. Her eyes stopped on Jenny, who was already making herself comfortable on a plush, black leather sectional. They were the only people in the room, which she thought was a little odd. She’d been expecting at least a few others inside.

It feels like we’re in another world, doesn’t it? Curt said, behind her. Like L.A. or New York.

Yeah.

Ashley stared around in amazement. Having never been in any club before, let alone a V.I.P. lounge, she was totally enamored by the place. There were several tall glass tables set up near a large plate window overlooking the dance floor, a video game area, and a long bar in which a totally hot bartender was busy cleaning cocktail glasses. As if sensing her interest, he looked up and flashed a ten-thousand-watt smile, making her blush.

This place is Gucci, Jenny declared when they reached her. Her eyes already shining from the alcohol and she was looking comfortable.

Hell yeah it is. Just like I told you. Curt frowned as he stared down at a message on his phone. Shit. That sucks. Something just came up. I have to roll.

Okay, well, thanks for everything, Curt, Ashley replied, relieved he wasn’t staying. He made her anxious and she hated the way he openly stared at her body.

He put his phone away. You bet.

So, is there going to be a party here or something? Jenny asked. I mean, we’re not going to be the only ones in the V.I.P. lounge, right?

He smirked. Oh, you could say there’s going to be a party. In fact, you two girls are the honored guests.

Jenny raised her eyebrows. Seriously? That’s kind of weird, though, isn’t it? I mean, we’ve never even been here before tonight.

Curt began walking toward the exit. That’s okay. You’re young, hot, and tasty. It’s all good.

He’s so weird, Ashley said in a low voice.

That’s why he’s Creepy Curt. Let’s not tell anyone we saw him tonight.

Oh, for sure I’m not saying anything.

A song Ashley loved started playing in the club. I think we should go back downstairs where everyone else is. I mean, wasn’t the point of coming here? To dance and meet guys?

Before Jenny could respond, the door opened and a dark-haired guy wearing a long, black leather coat entered the lounge.

Both girls stood up.

He smiled at them. Ladies, welcome to Club Nightshade.

Ashley could hardly breathe. The guy was tall with broad shoulders, crystal blue eyes, and a sexy smile. He reminded her of a male model she’d seen on Instagram. As he stared into her eyes, she suddenly felt hot and bothered.

Thanks, she answered, breathlessly.

Jenny was also mesmerized by the stranger’s hypnotic stare and felt flustered. Yeah, thanks. Uh, who are you?

His took off his jacket and set it down on a nearby chair. The name is Ethan. I’ll be your host tonight. So, what do you say? Should we get this party started?

Yes! both girls replied in unison.

1

EXCUSE ME... CAN I get another coffee over here? snapped the twenty-something blonde with the Bluetooth attached to her ear. She’d been sitting in the corner of the diner, talking loudly, making sure everyone around her knew she was important. From her boasting, I understood she was some type of investor, and a successful one at that. To me, she’d been nothing but a royal bitch.

Is there anything else I can get for you? I asked quietly, refilling her cup for the fourth time. She’d been in the diner for almost an hour and had nearly bitten my head off after I’d asked if she wanted something more than coffee. But, Rose wanted me to keep asking. Just in case the woman changed her mind.

She smiled coolly. Actually, yes. I’d like the Asian Chicken Salad. I want the meat grilled, though. Not fried.

No problem. What kind of dressing would you like?

"The kind it comes with," she replied almost rudely.

I forced a smile to my face. Sorry. Sometimes people want to change it. That’s the only reason why I asked.

I would have told you if I wanted a different dressing.

My eye twitched.  Of course.

Bitch. Leave already.

Startled, I looked up from my order pad. Excuse me?

She raised her eyebrow. Yes?

Sorry, I thought I heard you say something else. It must have been my imagination.

She checked the time on her cell phone. Must have been. Look, I don’t have much time to wait. So, I’d appreciate it if you could hurry on my order.  In fact, I’ll take just take it to go instead.

Sure.  

They’ll hire any idiot to work here...

This time it felt like I’d heard her as clear as day. I hadn’t seen her lips move, but the voice had sounded like it was next to my ear.  Weirded out, I stepped backward, right into Susan, knocking her tray of water glasses over. I groaned. Oh, God! I’m sorry!  

Susan bent down and began picking up the glasses. It’s fine, Nikki. Fortunately, it wasn’t anything important. Just a little water.

As I bent down to help her, the evil blonde customer’s voice popped into my head once again.

They really should fire this klutzy twat.

I stood up and glared at her. What did you just call me?

She gave me a startled look. Call you? I have no idea of what you’re talking about.

Oh, my. Are we having problems over here? Rosie, the owner, asked as she approached us.

My face turned red. Everyone in the restaurant appeared to be staring now. Sorry. My fault, I bumped into Susan.

Rosie smiled. Don’t sweat it, honey. It’s just water. I’ll help you, Susan. Nikki, why don’t you go and seat those other people who just walked in.

Relieved that she wasn’t mad, I relaxed. Sure.

"What about me? Could somebody please place my damn order so that I can get the hell out of here?" the blonde snapped, tapping her long, painted nails against the table furiously.

Yeah. Of course. I’ll do it before I seat the new customers, I replied.

Susan put her hand on my shoulder. Don’t worry, Nikki. I’ll take care of them.

Obviously, my waitress can’t handle multitasking.

Thanks, Susan. I turned back to the woman, dying to say something about her rudeness, but knowing that I couldn’t.  Rosie hated asshole customers, but she also wouldn’t tolerate her staff being rude either. She preferred to handle all of the heated situations. Still, this woman was really pushing my buttons.

The blonde smirked. Let me guess, you already forgot what I ordered?  

No. I was just going to suggest the House Salad. It takes less time to make and fewer calories than the Asian.

Her mouth dropped open. What in the hell is that supposed to mean?

I smiled innocently. I’m just saying... you’re in a hurry. The extra calories in the salad dressing might bog you down.

Just order me the damn Oriental Salad.

"You mean the Asian salad?" I replied.

"Good, God. Who fucking cares? You know what I mean."  

Excuse me, Rosie interrupted, having had enough. Ma’am, that’s no way to talk to one of my waitresses.

The woman reached into her purse and threw a couple of dollar bills onto the table. Screw this two-bit diner. I don’t have time for this bullshit. Then she slid out of the booth, grabbed her briefcase, and stormed out of the restaurant.

Susan snorted. Bye, Felicia.

No kidding. Rosie sighed. I’m not sure what that was all about, but sometimes, it’s just better to let customers like that leave.

I’m sorry, I muttered. It was probably my fault.

No. Susan lowered her voice. Don’t be so hard on yourself. That’s just Faye Dunbar and everyone knows she’s an annoying cunt.

I burst out laughing. Susan didn’t swear much, so it was hilarious to hear such vulgar language coming from her lips.

Rosie chuckled. I have to agree with you there. Snobby, rich bitch with some major superiority issues.

Susan and I agreed.

More people just walked in. I’ll take care of them, too. Susan headed toward the front of the restaurant.

Why don’t you go on break, Nikki? Rosie suggested. You’ve been running yourself ragged all morning.

I nodded toward my section. I have a couple of tables still needing my attention. They’re just finishing up dessert.

Then do it after they leave. You’ve been working your tail off today. Eat something. I bet you’re hungry.

I actually was. Thanks.

Rosie went about her business and I checked on my customers, trying hard to forget about Faye. I still wasn’t sure how I was able to read her mind, but I knew it wasn’t my imagination. I’d heard her clear as day. It was creepy.

I JUST SEATED AN OLD friend of yours, Susan murmured an hour later.

I raised my eyebrow. Really?

She nodded toward my section.

I looked over and immediately felt a weight on my chest.

Duncan.

We hadn’t spoken in over three months; his choice, not mine. He’d been pissed about me leaving with Ethan, which I understood. But, to make matters worse, I’d woken up in the hospital calling out for Ethan, when it had been Duncan who’d stayed by my side. That had been the final straw for him. He left and refused to talk to me. I’d even tried calling and apologizing, but too much damage had been done. I couldn’t exactly blame him, either. Not only had I let Ethan kiss me goodbye, but I’d allowed him to drink my blood. He only knew about the latter, but that was bad enough.

I’d hurt him badly.

I wanted to believe that it wasn’t totally my fault. That it was Ethan’s power of persuasion. But, even now I sometimes found myself daydreaming about being in his arms again. I definitely missed the guy. The crazy thing was that we were basically strangers. I hardly knew anything about him, other than he was a vampire and had once loved a girl named Miranda. I also knew that he’d almost killed me the night he fled to New York.

He’d have drained you dry if we wouldn’t have arrived when we did, Caleb had said afterward. Ethan always was a selfish son-of-a-bitch. He may have fancied you, but that wouldn’t stop him from taking your life to salvage his own.

I didn’t want to believe that Ethan would have gone that far. But, there was no denying that I’d passed out and he hadn’t shown any sign of stopping. Caleb’s bullet just might have saved my life.

After leaving the hospital, Caleb and I had a long talk. He’d agreed to protect my family from other vampires and I’d agreed to not give him away. Unfortunately, he’d also wiped out Mom’s and Nathan’s memory of that night. Neither knew there were vampires in Shore Lake. Or that I’d even been in the hospital. Somehow, Caleb was able make that disappear as well. I was basically the only person in town aware of what was really going on in town. It was frustrating, scary, and stressful.

Taking a deep breath, I headed over to Duncan’s table. He was with his father and didn’t look very happy to see me. I forced a smile to my face. Hi.

Sonny smiled up at me. Well, hello, Nikki.

Duncan had his face buried in the menu. He wouldn’t even look at me. He responded with a curt hi back.

It hurt like hell and I realized right then and there that I still had feelings for him. I would have done almost anything to, at the very least, regain his friendship.

I cleared my throat. Can I start you off with something to drink?

Coffee for me. Sonny looked at his son. What about you, Dunc?

Just water, he said, still trying to avoid my eyes.

Okay, I replied.

Your brother is doing a fine job at the marina, Sonny said, rapping his knuckles on the table. Yep, a fine job. He’s a hard worker.

I nodded. Yeah, he must be doing something because he’s completely wiped out when he gets home.

Sonny smiled. We keep him hopping. But he seems to like it even so.

I smiled. He says he loves it.

Sonny grinned back. Good. Glad to hear that. So, how’s your Mom doing? I heard she was having some problems with her eyes?

Duncan glanced at me when I answered. Yeah. She’s been to a couple of specialists, but they don’t really know what it is.

Secretly I knew, though. Caleb was slowly turning her into a vampire. I’m not sure exactly when the final change was going to happen and he still claimed that he was only doing it to save her from cancer. It still pissed me off that she hadn’t been given a choice about becoming a vampire. When I’d tried warning her about what Caleb was doing, she only rolled her eyes and scoffed. She still believed that I was watching too many late night movies and they were going to my head.

Well, hopefully it will clear up. Just tell her I said hello and that the offer still stands to get her out on my boat.

I will, I replied.  

I left to give them time to look over the menus. After