Chapter Text
The apparently indomitable Eric Northman had called a meeting, so of course Bill and I answered dutifully. As we entered his office, Eric was just putting his feet up on his desk. Seems we were right on time.
Pam was seated across from him, looking stunning in soft yellow and pink. Long Shadow stood against the wall to the left of the door, looking more like a bodyguard than a bartender.
Bill and I stood near the adjacent wall. As usual, Bill stood closer to Eric than I did.
Eric was talking about an upcoming meeting with a human that had shown interest in backing some of Fangtasia’s plans for expansion. He didn’t mention details, but I knew this man had to be very powerful to garner the elder vampire’s attention.
“This is only an introductory meeting. A pulse check, if you will,” Eric said. “Sookie alone will accompany me as my assistant and provide a read on this man’s intentions and potential.”
Bill had become more keenly aware of my feelings since we'd exchanged blood. He must’ve felt my rush of dread at hearing I’d be alone with Eric.
“If she does not want to, you should not force her,” he said, voice more fiery than usual.
“Bill!” I hissed, but a warning look from Eric struck me silent.
I felt a whooshing sensation to my right, and suddenly Eric stood in the middle of the room, holding Bill off the ground with one huge hand wrapped around his neck. I had a clear view of them both from one side.
I gasped and stood frozen, heart thundering in my chest. My surroundings seemed to blur and dissolve. My whole world consisted of the horrible sight before me.
Bill hung limply. He knew struggling was pointless and would only make him appear more afraid, weaker. Eric spoke in a reasonable, terrifying voice.
“Bill, Sookie is mine just as you are mine. You would do well to remember that. I’ve been patient with a few of your little tantrums lately, but enough is enough. Am I understood?”
Bill cracked his eyes open.
“Yes, Sh-Sheriff.”
“Excellent.”
The word had just left Eric’s lips when Bill’s shoulders twitched. A choking sound came from him, and I knew Eric had tightened his grip.
Whereas living people turn deep red when strangled, Bill’s face started to turn a sickly mix of pink and pale purple.
Vampires don’t need to breathe, but I was fairly certain they needed blood flow (however sluggish) to reach their brains. Or maybe Eric was threatening to simply crush Bill’s spine?
“Please let him go! I’ll do what you want,” I cried.
“Very good,” Eric said, sparing me a sidelong glance. “But I think Bill needs some more help remembering his place.”
He grinned, fangs flashing. He clearly enjoyed my distress just as much as Bill’s physical pain.