Did she?
A new question popped into her head. “Is it mandatory that I live here?”
“You’re the governor. It’s expected that you’re here occasionally. Well, more than that, I suppose. Enough to be considered regular.” Artemis frowned. “If something isn’t to your liking, there’s money in the budget to make changes.”
“It’s not that, it’s just… Wait, there’s a budget?”
“Yes. How do you think you and your staff get paid?” Artemis shook her head. “Don’t get too caught up in being here, though. Your schedule is yours. As long as you’re fulfilling your duties, you’re good. Like I said, you must find a balance.”
Donna was still focused on one of the first things Artemis had said. “I get a salary?”
Artemis laughed. “I did mention that before. Did you forget? This is not a volunteer position.”
“I completely forgot. Remember, I’ve been a vampire for less than a week. And it’s been a pretty crazy week at that.”
Artemis’s expression softened. “Forgive me. It has been. But you’re still much more…together than most at this stage.”
“I appreciate that.”
Pierce leaned in. “You’re doing very well.”
She smiled at him. She was glad he was here. “Thanks.”
“Yes,” Artemis said. “There is a salary for you and your assistant. And obviously, whatever staff you need besides your admin and your driver, who is also your head of security. Like I said, there is also room for you to hire more staff. The governorship of New Jersey has deep pockets. Your admin can provide you with the budget. Bear in mind, my office audits every governor at the end of the fiscal year.”
“So don’t be foolish,” Donna supplied.
“Yes. This isn’t your personal bank account.” Artemis smiled. “I doubt this will be an issue for you. But I tell you these things because I must.”
“I understand.” Claudette’s downfall had come about because she hadn’t told Donna all the things she should have. There was no way Artemis would follow the same pattern of behavior. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have become queen.
Artemis waved a hand. “If you have questions, you can reach out to me, but your staff can help you as well. They’ve been at their jobs for a while.”
Which meant they’d worked for Claudette. Donna instantly wondered if they’d resent her for what had happened. Or would they be happy to have a new boss?
“Is there anything you’d like to know right now?” Artemis asked. “Otherwise, I’m done here. Feel free to tour the rest of the penthouse and stay as long as you like. It’s your residence now.”
“I…” Donna was sure she ought to have a thousand questions, but none came immediately to mind.
Pierce cleared his throat. “The elevator has a fingerprint scanner. Who will take care of getting us set up with that?”
“Good question.” Artemis’s smile didn’t entirely convey that sentiment, however, making Donna proud of Pierce for being willing to ask. “Either Donna’s admin or driver can handle that.” She looked at Donna. “Anything else?”
“Not immediately. No.” Donna took a breath. “Wait. Yes. This building. Everyone who lives here, they’re okay with having such interesting occupants? All the late-night comings and goings?”
“They are.” Artemis’s eyes narrowed. “Because everyone in this building is either a supernatural or engaged in supernatural-related business.”
Donna blinked. “Good to know.”
“Your admin can give you a list of your neighbors, if you desire.” With another wave, Artemis nodded and headed for the door. “Be well. I hope you succeed.”
“Thanks.” Donna frowned as Artemis left. The door closed, leaving her and Pierce alone in the apartment. She raised her brows and looked at him. “So. I’m sure the rest of this place is equally amazing, but it feels weird to look around while Claudette’s stuff is still here.”
He nodded. “We’ll have plenty of time to look around tomorrow. We have other things to do anyway.”
“That’s for sure. We should get back to my house. I need to pack enough to allow me to stay here for a few days at a time.”
“Or,” Pierce started, “you could do some shopping and just stock this place accordingly. I believe that would be in the purview of gubernatorial spending.”
Donna bit her lip. “You think?”
“We can ask your admin.”
“Right. And we still haven’t met her, or him, as the case may be. We should go do that.”
“And meet your driver. Both introductions Artemis should have made.”
“You would have thought so. Well, let’s go meet them.” She put her hand on his arm and grinned like a schoolgirl. “This place, though.”
He laughed. “It’s amazing. Do you like the way it looks, or are you going to redecorate?”
“I like it. It’s got a very strong vibe. Like the person who lives here has it all going on and isn’t to be messed with.”
He nodded. “I think that describes you very well.”
She shook her head, amused. “You have a very high opinion of me.”
“One you earned.”
The words of her therapist, Dr. Goldberg, about trusting in her own strength echoed in Donna’s head. “Well, thank you. I need to own that more. So the reminder is appreciated.”
She took another look around. “It could use a few things. Some pictures of the kids, definitely. A few plants, maybe. A litter box for Lucky.” She slanted her eyes at Pierce. “I should have asked about the pet policy.”
He typed something on his phone. “Your admin will know. And what are they going to say, that you can’t have your cat? You’re the governor. You make the rules.”
“True.” She put her hands on her hips. “What do you think of this place? Would you change anything?”
He gave it an appraising glance, then shook his head. “Like you said, maybe a few personal touches, but it suits me just fine.” Then he chuckled softly. “But I will be happy to take a room in the apartment below.”
“I think…I’d prefer you here.”
His brows lifted. “You’re sure?”
She nodded. “I realize we’re still getting to know each other, but you’ve proven to be an incredible ally. And since I routinely drink your blood, we’re already intimately acquainted.”
“There is that.”
“The truth is, right now, you’re part of my very small circle of trust. Having you close seems like the best idea. I don’t want to have to run downstairs every time I want to talk something over with you.”
“That would be less than convenient.”
She tapped her index finger against her chin. “Although, there is some value in having you in the other apartment, getting to know the admin and driver. But I suppose if they worked for Claudette without issue, they should be fine working for me. I hope.”
“I can still get to know them.” A more serious expression crossed his face. “You know I will do everything in my power to keep you safe.”