Bound By Love Eternal: Marked Books 1-4

Bittersweet Dreams

Marc wasn’t as relieved to hear her answer as he had hoped he would be. He wanted Kate with him more than anything, but he was unsure if he was asking her to do what was right. He had found her the night before, as she sat alone by the pond with the snow falling on her hair like hundreds of diamonds in the moonlight. She was twirling a blade in her hand, and he knew her intention. Life had pushed her too far, and she was staring directly into the pit of despair. He had chosen to step out from the shadows and take her. It was a selfish choice, but it was no more a choice to him than breathing is to a human. He loved her. He had always loved her. In his own life, he had sidestepped his destined death and he still carried guilt for that choice and the consequences it brought. Then, as he did now, his spirit needed to be near hers. He was unwilling for either of them to leave this life and enter the uncertainty of the next. Tenderly, his fingers brushed back the hair from the right side of her neck. He loved her, but above his love for her was a selfish need to have her again. He would kill her. He would bring her back, and he would never let her go again. The fangs as they pierced her skin were not nearly as painful as the pressure of his bite as she felt her life slipping away. Kate had no strength left, and her body fell limp and lifeless into his arms. He laid her down carefully on the floor and supported her head with his left arm. Then, he bit deep and fiercely into his right wrist. The blood poured steadily and he watched it stain her lips. A single tear fell from his eyes. He was damning her. Even still, he could not let her go. That night, the pleasure he felt at knowing that inside she was there sleeping finally in his bed, was bittersweet.

The next day, her metamorphosis was well under way. He covered her up with a light satin sheet. In moments of partial consciousness, just the touch of the denim and cotton that she had over her tore across her flesh painfully. Her body ached and pained like a thousand tiny needles rested just below the surface of her skin. For now, she was resting. She was exhausted from her latest bout of agony. Marc sunk deep into the armchair, but could not let himself sleep. He needed to be there, alert, in case she needed him. Her screams had awoken Enric and Natasha who were sleeping down the hall.

They tapped on the heavy mahogany door.

Enter.

Trying to be as quiet as possible, they knelt down near the bed. Kate looked so sick.

So it has begun?

Yes.

I thought you would be happier. Marc had talked about this for years. All he lived for was to find her.

The change is not without risk. My blood is toxic to her body. See the veins beneath her skin? They’re rising, full, and fighting. Her body will submit to it and be reborn, or she will die.

Marc dipped a cloth lightly into a wash basin beside the bed, and used it to wet her brow with cool water. He had done this to her. He had lived for centuries with every intention of finding her. He meant to find her, and make it so they would never part again. He lied to himself when he tried to believe it was curiosity and a desire to make sure she was okay, that drove him to hunt her down time after time. It wasn’t about any of that really. He wanted her, and he waited for the chance to have her. He wrestled with these thoughts. His motives were questionable at best. She was suffering, and he had done this to her.

Enric could see that Marc was struggling. He tried to find words that would be comforting. She is strong Marc. She’ll fight through this.

I don’t want to lose her, Enric. I cannot lose her, not again.

They watched her eyes moving. Violently, they darted from one side to the next. Her skin was quickly losing its pale flush of color. Pain was written in her expression. Her jaw clenched, and she threw her head back as if she could not get enough air.

Marc continued expressing what he was feeling. This was such a rare occurrence that Enric and Natasha gave him their full attention. I hate knowing that her spirit is there, caught in the middle and I cannot be with her.

You are right here, touching her. How is it that you are not with her?

Her body rests here, but her spirit is there. It won’t pass because of what I’ve done to her. Though she will be spared from Ifern, she must travel through the underworld alone. She has to find her way back to this body, this life.

She looked so small to him lying there on his bed. He wasn’t used to worrying about her strength in this way. Would she navigate this labyrinth? Marc was so close to having her back. It was almost more than he could bear, watching her in so much pain and torment.

Life is gone from her then?

Yes. Her body is only a doorway now. It lives because my blood transforms it into a vessel for her when she finds her way back.

It made sense to Enric now that she looked so pale and ill. She was essentially dead. He had never contemplated how someone became a vampire. He had never dared to imagine what it was like to transform. It looked horrible and painful. It was slow, so slow and painful. One question was strong in his mind. How long does she have to find her way back?

The sun will raise twice more before the door is shut. It will be a difficult journey. I must stay vigilant. My words will guide her, if she can hear them.

The air was thick with tension, making the large bed chamber feel like a tiny, cramped closet. It was clear in Marc’s voice that the risks were profound. All he could offer was his presence if it was needed. If there is anything we can do, call for us.

As Natasha and Enric walked out, they were full of concern for their friend. It was strange for them to see Marc like this. He was beginning to look weak. He sat over her, reopening his would and pouring his blood over her lips so carefully. Enric and Natasha began to wonder if Marc’s life was in as much danger as Kate’s.

The next day was worse. Kate’s voice echoed through the halls of the house. Everyone it seemed was in a state of unrest. They had all watched Marc put everything he had into finding her. For hours, he would sit in his room beside the cedar chest at the foot of his bed. He searched for something unknown through the trinkets that he had kept from their time together. Inside the chest were pieces of breacan, taken from the tiretaine that he was wearing. There was one piece of cloth from a kerchief that belonged to his beloved Aimee. There was also a broach that she wore on special occasions, and a pewter hair pin that had a trinity knot with an eternity circle at the top. There were many belongings besides, all pieces of his history together with her. Marc refused to leave her side. He tended to her constantly as she slept.

Natasha remembered how he had made many trips to New Orleans before he had at last found Kate. He would go down to New Orleans and see Elsie who was a voodoo high priestess. She was a vampire, like him, but she had a gift of foresight. Her knack for communicating with the spirit world was amazing, almost as strong as her affinity for dark magic. He would leave for days on end to go and consult with Elsie so that he would know where Kate was and what he could do to find a door into her life once again. Natasha wished so much that Elsie was here to help Marc through this. She would know what to do.

The pierce of Kate’s screams jolted Marc into action. He walked over to her and wiped her head, face, neck and shoulders with the cool cloth. He was careful and gentle. As dawn approached, Enric and Natasha returned to Marc’s room with a platter of food and a glass of cabernet franc.

Enric knew from the intensity and frequency of her screams, that things were bad. How is she today, Marc?

She rests less and less now.

You look weak. Here is some food, and if you need me I am here. Natasha could no longer hide the worry in her eyes. Marc was so tired. She could see it in him.

His answer was short. I cannot feed until tomorrow morning. He downed a piece of roast beef and the wine in seconds, obviously hungry for something more. I can’t risk introducing her body to so much of someone else’s blood, not when we’re so close to making progress.

Enric walked over to the side of the bed. The ribbons of purple had faded under Kate’s skin. He noticed that her body had begun to take on a kind of otherworldly glow. Her skin and hair were radiant, like a woman with child. She was saying something as if she were reading from a text, low, and methodically under her breath. It was a text they knew, from the 240 BC writing, the Egyptian Book of the Dead.

She repeated the phrases over and over again. The words seemed to give some measure of comfort to Marc. She is finding her way back. Marc stroked her face as she spoke, his words in sync with hers.

Natasha recognized the words from a book she was familiar with. That’s from the book of the Dead?

Marc had always found the moniker insufficient in some way. He grinned in amusement. Well, that’s what the English call it.

Natasha was confused. This text was significant historically, but she could not fathom how it had anything to do with what was happening now. What significance does the Book of the Dead have to this?

Marc began to explain as best he could. The Egyptians possessed great wisdom. The information in those scrolls is the key to understanding a large part of what we must face in the underworld. It’s like a wilderness, vast and confusing. There are many paths that can lead in many different directions. One set of choices leads to reincarnation on this earth if your soul’s learning is complete. One leads to paradise and the other to torment.

What about the immortals?

Well, that’s something else altogether. For Vampires, it is a journey backward against the raging river, back to our bodies, a gateway quickened with unnatural life.

One more day, that’s all they had left. Kate was so close to reaching the end of her journey beneath. Marc had found that his grief had subsided, and in its place was fierce anticipation. He wondered if she would reconnect with who she was in their life together so long ago. He wondered if she would love him, or if she would come to regret her choice and resent him for what she would become. Either way, Marc was pleased that she was resting so calmly now. The sun broke through the heavy velvet drapes and danced across her face. She was so beautiful. Then he noticed it, the gash in her arm had begun to heal. He took off the bandage just to be sure. The cut was fading like it had never been there at all. She was changing. She was becoming a Vampire. Marc rested a moment, knowing that she would awaken soon. He leaned his body against the thick post at the end of the bed. Natasha and Enric had joined him again to keep vigil over her. He was pleased to tell them the worst had passed. Her wounds are healing.

Enric and Natasha could not help but smile. There had been so much tension over the last couple of days. This was good news. Her body had at last stopped fighting, and Marc’s blood would begin to strengthen her. They watched him bite deeply into his wrist for the last time, and gently tilt back her head.

She’s getting stronger, it won’t be long. When Marc glanced back at them it was frightening at first. His skin was shadowed, and his eyes gleamed, bright and piercing. They looked a lot like a kaleidoscope. They were predominately green in hue and as wild as any animals. His fangs stood out dramatically. Even the way he carried himself was different, dominant, and more aggressive. He wiped Kate’s lips with a white kerchief, and bound his wrist carefully with gauze and a heavy leather cuff watch. He glanced down and then met their eyes to explain what must be done next. It will be a few hours before she awakens. I must go. I’ll be back as soon as I can. Take care of her until I return. Then he paused, there was one more thing he needed to know, Enric, are you certain you still want to do this?

Enric’s response was immediate. Yes. We have seen how much she means to you.

Good. With that, Marc closed the door.

Natasha had never seen him like that before. He had remained perfectly composed, but underneath it was plain to see that his hunger had grown intense. Day hunting was very dangerous. He would make a good choice, she knew that. Marc liked to choose someone who was disconnected and cruel. He often chose criminals. Still, it was hard to know what was happening. It was terrible for the mortal, no matter what Marc’s skill was. As fast and skilled as he had become at killing, it was still bad for Marc too. He had never really enjoyed hunting men. Even though he needed to at times to survive it never seemed that simple. He had always viewed it more like murder. There was no other choice; if he didn’t hunt he was far too hungry to control himself during a feeding. He had to let the beast inside grow hungry, so that he could be there like he needed to be for Kate. Now, he needed to quench that hunger so that he could be logical and strong for her to lean on after her awakening.

It was dusk before Marc returned to the house. His eyes were calmer. With the storm inside him abated, Natasha could not help but wonder for a moment about the specifics of his hunt. Who was it he chose? Were they afraid? She knew that their face would always be with him. He remembered every human he killed, every single one. He had told her so once. He even remembered the faces of the warriors he bested in battle before he was immortal. Marc had not hunted since they made their agreement, until now. It seemed so terrible from a human point of view, but he was not human after all. Natasha told herself that what he had to do was natural, no matter how terrible it seemed.

Marc did not rush to Kate. Instead, he went first into the bathroom. He didn’t utter a word as he passed Natasha and Enric in the hall. He dared not meet their gaze with the blood still dry on his lips from his kill. He turned on the hot water and stripped off his clothes. They smelled like death. He dipped his hands into the water and rinsed his face, letting his fingers run along the side of his head. It never got easier as strange as it was. He had killed dozens of men in battle as a mortal. He had killed hundreds more as an immortal, and not one of them haunted him like now. The stream enveloped him, beginning to release the tension in his muscles. He used his shirt to wipe clean a space on the mirror. He had cleaned away the blood and bits from his body, but his teeth were stained a sheer red. What have I done, he thought, this has been such a curse and here I have given it to the soul I love above all else.

He knew he did what he needed to do. He did what had to be done. There was no way that Natasha would have survived his brutality. He was far too hungry, and he would have killed her. Though it was necessary, Marc found it difficult to accept at times.

It was well into the night, before the final traces of his deed were washed down the drain. Marc found Enric and Natasha sitting in armchairs beside Kate’s bed, deep in conversation with one another.

Are you ready then? Natasha beamed a satisfied smile at Enric. This would be one more thing that they could share together. Natasha had been waiting for this, for Enric to commit fully to this life. She wanted him to have what she had with Marc. Their friendship had changed her for the better.

I am, Enric replied in his typically collected tone. He smiled back at Natasha and then lifted his gaze to Marc as he entered the room.

I’m glad to see you are ready, dear friend. We’ve only a couple of hours now before she wakes. Just saying it out loud made Marc’s heart race. He was so close to having her back.

How soon will she need to feed?

The faint tremor that Marc detected in Enric’s hands was the only give away that his composure was crumbling. He was afraid. It was good. New vampires were often overly eager. It was not unheard of for a willing donor to become injured or even to die if the feeding were not monitored closely. She will need blood almost right away, but I would like a few moments in private with her at first.

Of course.

It is well past time for dinner, I have asked Edward to prepare a meal for you. It is important that you eat and have your strength, especially you Enric. Marc had been gentle in his guidance and he could see that the idea was readily accepted by Natasha. She could no doubt remember the fatigue that she felt at the beginning of her arrangement with Marc.

Thank you, Marc. Do you wish to join us?

No, excuse me please. I want to be here when she opens her eyes. Kate was in a deep sleep now. Her body had been utterly exhausted by the journey. Marc felt responsible to be there when she awoke to this new existence. He thought then of another need that would have to be met. Could you do me a favor, Natasha?

Yes, what do you need?

Kate will need something to wear. I don’t want to her to be self-conscious when she gets up. I would like something simple and elegant. Cashmere would be perfect.

What about the ivory sweater dress? And I could bring the brow belt with the turquoise insets?

She’ll like that. They smiled in agreement. In their life before Kate had always loved blue. It sounded perfect.

I’ll have it ready when you call for us. Natasha and Enric moved downstairs then, to set about devouring their dinner and easing Enric’s anxieties.

The anticipation was about to drive Marc insane as he waited upstairs. Intently, he watched every twitch of her eyelid. She had overcome all the obstacles of the underworld. Here she was, after all of that, lying in front of him sleeping. He felt more bonded to her than ever. Gently, he brushed back strands of stray hair from her face. Each breath was easy and calm, her chest rising and falling ever so lightly. As she opened her eyes, it took a moment for things to come into focus. Her head ached. Her thoughts were chaotic. She was in a bedroom, in a bed with four tall dark posts. There was a small side table with a large white porcelain bowl on top. The windows were lined with deep mahogany book cases and draped in crushed velvet. The bright rays of sun as they broke the horizon were overwhelming. She recoiled quickly, shielding her face with her right arm. She could hear the sounds of the draperies being quickly drawn shut.

I’m sorry. I didn’t realize you would be so sensitive to the light. Marc tried to pull the curtains as quick as he could so that Kate would have a moment for her senses to adjust. She slowly put down her arm and searched the room for his face. That first time their eyes met since her change was more than Marc could have anticipated. Her eyes had always been a beautiful shade of blue. As impossible as it seemed, they had become even more captivating. They were brighter, wilder. They were like his own. He wanted to rush to her and kiss her with the most passionate kiss he could, but he knew that would take time. It would take time for her to trust him, to love him again. She would again; they were not whole without one another.

My head hurts so much. Kate shut her eyes again.

Marc sat down beside her and held his hand to her face. She let her head fall heavily into it. She breathed deeply in and out, and then glanced up at him. She took a deep breath in and looked at Marc. I don’t know where to begin.

He ran his fingers gently along her cheek. His smile was warm and comforting. There’s no rush. We have all the time that we need. It was a wonderful thought that they had all that span of time out before them now. It had been so long that he had dreamed of holding her again. What a comfort it was to know that he would hold her forever.

In spite of Marc’s reassurances, Kate felt an urgency to share what she had experienced in the underworld. So many profound things had woven the circumstances that brought her back to this life. There were so many things that she could have told Marc, but there was one certain thing that would give him assurance as they began their relationship together. I saw it all happen. Kate had actual memories of her life with Marc. He had alluded to their time together before her change, and Kate had searched for that piece of her past when she left to go to the underworld. There was a whole lifetime that she had gained. She felt all the emotion that it carried with it.

Marc didn’t try to hide the smile on his face when he heard her speak the words. He had hoped that she would regain some sense of who they were together. He had not even dared for memories, but would have contented himself with knowing she understood the depth of his feelings for her. Human memory is a strange thing. It creates a sort of radio signal into the world, repeating over and over what is in the blood. Memories and experiences are constantly being played and built upon. Marc knew that she would see part of his past, but that she had true memories, from her own eyes and with her own senses was overwhelming. I knew you would see. I just wasn’t sure how much. He was beaming, and Kate smiled back at him just as sincerely.

Some of it I saw, not as you saw it, but with my own eyes. I saw it. I saw it all happen. Something in Marc’s memories had triggered Kate’s own memories. She had gained her own recollections of her past life together with him.

It was more than he could have hoped for. His blood had changed her, and his voice was her guide back. Marc could not help but wonder if the memories Kate had found were because of his influence. She had grown quiet. Aimee? His smile would not fade, and she smiled back at him as she looked up. He wondered if she would remember her name. He hadn’t realized until that moment how much he had missed speaking it.

I have had a few names, you know.

None are equally as beautiful to my ears. He loved the playfulness in her tone. He knew now that he had her back. It was more than just the essence of her. She was here, mind body, and soul.. Sharing all the same memories of the life they had experienced together was breathtaking. The bond they had between them could only grow stronger. Marc just sat there a moment. He was stunned. He was happy, but stunned. For all the years he had imagined this moment, he could barely breathe let alone act or speak.

During their silence, Kate became acutely aware that the only thing covering her was the thin satin sheet. She pulled her arms close and wrapped them tightly around her chest. Are you surprised that I can remember?

I didn’t know that would happen, if that’s what you mean.

But it pleases you? Kate knew it pleased him. The smile on his face made it more than obvious. He seemed so easily content with her. The heavy emotion that the time they spent together the last few days was a low shadow cast upon it, but even through that, Marc was content in her company. He let her see how happy being near her made him. He did not hide his emotion when she awoke from her dangerous sleep. All of these things endeared him more closely to her. Combined with the memories of their past together, Kate was beginning to feel more and more connected to him.

Yes. He unfolded one arm from around her so that he could rest her hand inside of his. I want to thank you for trusting me. I have missed you, so much that I doubt you can comprehend it. Whatever you need, I am here for you. I love you.

Normally she would have taken a moment to contemplate the seriousness of his proclamation. Time for that would have to wait, pain wracked through her head like a knife. She had to close her eyes for a moment her head ached so badly.

Are you okay? He held her hand tightly, searching her face to try and read her expression.

It’s just a headache. His touch was soothing. She had never felt this before, so loved, and so cared for. Sounds thundered in her ears. She could hear everything. She could hear the drops of rain falling rhythmically outside the window, the soft roar of the fireplace across the room. Even the scent of saffron, white cedar, and a deep rich citrus of some kind lingered in the air. It was his scent. She had never noticed it so strongly before. It was nice, but overwhelming at this intensity. It’s hard to concentrate. It’s like things are jumbled up and amplified in my head.

You need to feed soon.

No, I’m not ready.

If you don’t, that feeling will grow until you will no longer be able to control it.

There were many things that she would have to adjust to. The feel of fangs in her mouth was strange, and her eyes seemed to focus on the tiniest movements. For instance, there was a draft at the window that caused the drapes to blow out, just a bit, at the bottom.

She must have been staring at it too long. Marc laughed softly. You’ll get used to that. Your senses are much more keen now.

I don’t know if I can do this. The thought of biting into someone’s flesh was more than appalling.

The memory of Marc’s first feed was faded. He could see from the emotion on her face that the idea of having to do this was one that tormented her. He offered what comfort he could. I’ve spoken to Enric already. He knows what to expect, and he wants to help you.

What if I hurt him? What if she did? She certainly felt like she could. Part of her wanted to. She was so hungry. One corner of her mind screamed to feed; the other was disgusted at the thought.

You won’t hurt him. You can control this. It will take time, but I will show you how to control it. It’s going to be alright. I promise you. She believed him the moment he spoke the words. He kissed her softly and gently on the forehead and then walked over to the door. He opened the door slowly and spoke into the hall. Natasha, Enric. In only a moment they were there. They must have been waiting outside.

I brought you some clothes. Natasha laid the most beautiful dress over the top of the bed. It was a woven dress in a soft cream color. It was a sweater and seemed warm, but the material was not bulky. It looked comfortable, but still elegant.

She was sure it must be worth more than any dress she had owned before. Colors seemed so much richer now. She noticed every color in vivid detail, and the textures of things stood out like she was wearing 3D glasses. Marc and Enric remained by the door. Her concentration was broken suddenly by the sound of Marc’s voice.

Just open the door when you’re dressed. We’ll talk more then. With that, they were gone. She was left alone with Natasha who walked over by the window, peering through the tiny opening between the drapes.

It will be a good day today. Natasha tried her best to reassure her new friend. It was difficult to imagine what Kate must have been going through. Natasha was human, after all. She had spent years by Marc’s side as a close friend, but she could never really fully experience what it was like to go through the transition, or to let go of your humanity in any varying degree. Still, Kate appreciated the effort she made to bring her comfort.

The cashmere felt amazing as it glided over her body. The belt was nice too. She was always drawn to things that looked like that. The turquoise insets stood out beautifully against the dark leather. It looked like little beads of water, frozen and enhanced in color. They were like tiny little planets that she could hold in her hands. She had a new sense of confidence as she stood, not arrogant but sure. She felt connected to her body more than she ever did before. She could feel her skin, her breath. She felt alive as her feet touched the cold hardwood floor, more alive than she could ever remember feeling before. Thank you, Natasha. I appreciate the dress, and the encouragement. Kate straightened the belt around her hips as Natasha turned back around.

Oh, it fits you beautifully. Natasha took a moment to look Kate over, making sure that there were no flipped out labels or loose threads. The dress did suite her perfectly. Kate had a rounder figure than she did, and the way that the cashmere hugged against her breasts and hips was something that she never could have had in the same. Natasha was built more like a model, tall and thin. The only thing missing was the boots. I brought some boots for you too. They’re beside the bed.

They’re beautiful. Kate rushed over and held one of the boots up to examine it better. She held it for a moment, admiring the craftsmanship. They were Italian, deep brown leather, with musketeer detail and a stiletto heel. They were quite possibly the finest thing she had ever worn.

The satisfaction and appreciation on Kate’s face was telling. I’m glad that you like them. Natasha had never really known someone like Kate before. Her emotions were so pure. She had undoubtedly been through a lot in her life, but when she felt something it was all consuming. She didn’t hide her thoughts from her face. She was sincere. Natasha walked over and opened the door while Kate slipped the boots on.

Marc held the door open, letting Enric pass into the room and Natasha step out. Natasha and I will be waiting downstairs. We have some business to go over, so just come and join us later, we’ll be entrenched in boring details of our latest art acquisition for some time I’m sure.

Kate felt awkward when he shut the door. Here she was, alone with Enric. She had never made a habit of being alone with a man. When she was human it was considered inappropriate. She had lived almost exclusively in small towns, where rumors and reputation were of utmost importance. It had also been her experience in life that the men that surrounded her always wanted something from her. She knew that this arrangement with Enric was not sexual, but it was still intimate in so many ways. She was confused about what she should feel about that. She was also confused by what she did feel. She almost immediately noticed the soft hum of the blood flowing under his skin, and the faint beating of his heart in his chest. She didn’t hear her own heart beating. Holding her hand up to her chest, she couldn’t feel it either. It must be beating, or how could she be moving. Then, Enric began to speak, breaking the silence.

You’re nervous? He was looking at her, trying to decipher her mood. His brow was narrowed in concern. He had been worried about her. It seemed strange that he would develop a sense of caring for her in any capacity, especially since they had known one another such a short time.

I don’t want to hurt you. She answered in the truest way she could. She didn’t feel nervous. She was afraid if anything. She was afraid because she had always up until this point known herself. She had known her own ability and intention in spite of not knowing the intent of others. She had always had a great sense of self control. It was different now. She had no idea what she was capable of. The only thing that she was certain of was that she would be capable of far more than she had ever allowed herself before.

Then you won’t. Enric seemed sure that Kate would be able to manage herself. He trusted her with his life.

How can you know that? How could you possibly? I can feel the change in me already.

His confidence was soothing. He didn’t seem worried about doing this at all and that helped Kate to feel a little more at ease. He tried his best to explain. You care. You care about people, and about life. You’ve been beaten down by things, so I’m not surprised that you doubt yourself, but in time you’ll see yourself differently. He sat down beside her on the bed. He saw no point in lingering on the issue of would she or would she not be able to control her desire to tear out his throat. A change in subject to more pressing concerns seemed like a good idea. Have you thought about where the bite should be?

No, somewhere out of plain sight probably. Kate tried to force herself to let go of her fear and concentrate on what she must do.

Enric took off his suit jacket and laid it across the footboard. Yes, that’s true. I have to be out a lot in the public. I don’t know that the majority of citizens would understand this. For forty-eight, he was in very good shape. His body was lean and sculpted. It was obvious too that he had quite the boyish face, except for the few grey hairs that lined the side of his head just above his ears. They didn’t’ age him that much, but rather gave him a more distinguished air. He took off his shirt and laid it neatly on top of his jacket. What about my back, or the front of my chest? He had never been much for wearing watches, so Natasha’s method would not work out well for him. He also tended to lose his tie at first available opportunity that made his neck an unappealing option.

She could sense very vein, every artery pulsing beneath his skin. The blood would be the richest close to his heart. She felt a surge of strength from within, energizing her. She was certain she could have driven her hand directly into his chest and wrapped her fingers around his heart. She tried instead to focus on the image of him unbuttoning his shirt. Letting the sight of him turn her on would be better than eating his heart.

In either case she was severely distracted. This forced Enric to lead their interaction. Marc had already warned him that this would be necessary. I would rather somewhere on the front of my torso I think. What about here? He pointed to a spot along his left side, just below his breast. It would hurt, but he wasn’t sure that he’d trust her close to his jugular, and he was certain he didn’t trust her behind him. It seemed like it might be a good option.

Kate made herself focus. It would be painful, that’s right over your ribcage. She didn’t really care that it would hurt him, but she knew it would be good to warn him. He would have to manage his pain well. She knew that if he pulled away, or tried to stop her she would lose control. There was a sensitive switch that she was fighting not to flip.

Could you get a good feeding from there? He wanted to make sure she got what she needed. His neck and arms were not an option, and she was not going anywhere near his femoral with her wild eyes. The softness of his lower abdomen seemed like a horrible idea too, so he rather liked the protection the bones of his ribcage provided. He had no real idea of the capacity of her strength. Besides, he had never had a problem with pain.

It would be almost too good a spot. The blood flowed heavy and strong there, so close to his heart. It was as if she were a surgeon. She could see a map in her mind of every vessel, every muscle, and every bone. He reclined lightly against the pillows behind her, with his right arm up over his head. She turned to face him. Yes, I think so. Don’t kill him, she had to continue to repeat in her mind. She longed for the days when this kind of situation would be about sex and no more complex than that.

We’ll both be fine. He misread her silence and hesitation for fear. She was past that. He ran his hand long her right arm comfortingly. It wasn’t that she couldn’t bite him, as horrified as that made her in and of itself. It was that she wasn’t sure if she could stop. She doubted her own self-control more strongly than ever. Things had often been chaotic around her, but she had always had the ability to shut off herself and do whatever it was that she needed to. It was almost at times like she was a robot. This was different. Her body and spirit felt so connected now. It was overwhelming. She trembled as she brought her face to his side, forcing her body to bow to her will. I’m ready. He gripped the bed sheet tightly in each fist, anticipating the pain. She closed her eyes and her fangs pierced his skin with superhuman precision. She would feel them glide under his skin and instantly they filled with his blood. There was no dramatic sucking, like there is in movies. The pressure of the bite itself was enough for the fangs to draw up the blood, much like a needle and a syringe.

The pressure was so intense, in fact, that he barely felt her teeth pierce his flesh. He grunted once, softly, just at first. His breaths were quick and shallow. She could feel each racing beat of his heart as his blood pulsed into her mouth, warm and metallic. Then, she could sense his past. His memories flowed through her mind in quick flashes. She could see him as a child in Italy. He paid his way through college himself. She could see him as he met Natasha for the first time, and a dozen other random flashes. He is a man of true honor, she thought.

He could hear her. She was connected to him on a deeper level now. IT was strange and wonderful. Marc had not mentioned this aspect. It was a communication without spoken words, but all the more effective. This explained the knowing glances between Marc and Natasha as he fed. She expressed her gratitude, and opened herself to his thoughts to try and assess if she were causing him more pain than he could bear. He was okay.

She was okay too. She felt in control. She could feel the energy surging through her body, it was invigorating. Soon, she could tell that she was nearly full, and Enric was getting weak. Gently she loosened her bite, and began to pull her fangs out slowly. It wasn’t as terrible a thing as she thought it would be. She wondered if Enric felt the same way.

There’s some gauze and ointment in the bedside table. He gave no indication either way.

Okay. How are you feeling? She reached over and got the gauze out of the drawer so that she could begin to tape up his wound. It wouldn’t be necessary to clean it. It wouldn’t get infected. The gauze would help to conceal the nature of the wound if he were seen unclothed though. She was almost afraid to meet his eyes. She felt so vulnerable, which was unexpected. He was what stood between her and the predator that wanted out. She needed him. She also knew that she hadn’t been gentle. She didn’t even think about how he was feeling until her own need was met. She didn’t know how he would react.

I feel good, Kate. I think I might actually have a bit of an adrenaline high going. He smiled. She enjoyed his confidence and strength. He had a way about him, and people seemed to really enjoy being in his presence. He was selfless and honorable and many things that were foreign concepts to her in the men that she had known. How are you feeling?

Much better than I thought I would. It was just a few moments ago that she didn’t know if she could even go through with this first feed. Now that it was done, she was relieved. Her hunger was silenced, and he was alive. She was very happy. His smile was infectious, and she echoed it back at him. He knew the fears and reservations that she would be facing. It was good to know that he was there for her. Also, she was pretty sure that it hurt like hell, but she was glad that he had spared her the guilt of saying so.

C’est La Vie

Marc couldn’t take his eyes off of her as she walked down the staircase. She was absolutely the most beautiful woman that he had ever known. It was like their wedding day all over again. She had made an even more profound commitment to him this time. It was such a relief and joy to have her back in his life again. Her skin glowed with an otherworldly glow. There was a bright and colorful aura around her. He was seeing her happy for the first time in so long. She took his breath away. It was such a relief and joy to have her back in his life again. He took her hand as she stepped onto the landing at the foot of the staircase.

You look refreshed.

I am feeling much better. She could see from the reaction on Marc’s face that he was impressed. It was nice to have him look at her like that. For that moment, she was the center of his world. He led her out the side door and onto the terrace.

Are you really okay?

I think so, I mean, it wasn’t as bad as I thought it was going to be. Kate appreciated that Marc was so concerned for her emotions. He understood how hard it had been for her to come to terms with her new self. He had asked a lot of her in turning her. It was a selfish thing for him to do. That was the basic nature of his decision; he would not let her go again. While Marc’s thoughts drifted backward, Kate was thinking of the future. Where do we go from here?

Where do you want to go? He was happy to leave the thoughts surrounding what he had done, and what he would have done with or without her consent.

What do you mean? I don’t know. Kate had never entertained the idea of traveling before. Her life had always been centered on the struggle to meet basic necessities.

Tell me, what is the one thing that you’ve always wanted to do but never thought you would have the chance?

She took a moment to think. If there were any place on earth that she had wondered of as a girl, it was Paris. She could remember seeing the image of the Eiffel tower in her mind and thinking that it was such a beautiful place. Of all places this one stood out. I used to dream of going to Paris.

What would you do there? He was pleased to see her trying so hard. Just imagining a destination was hard for her. She had never given herself permission to be happy or to let herself dream.

I would like to see the Eiffel Tower, I think.

Ah. He smiled and nodded in complete agreement and appreciation. He had been to Paris, of course during his long time walking this earth. He was turned in France. It would forever be close to his heart.

Kate closed her eyes for a moment and turned her head just slightly to the right while she thought to herself. I want to stand on the highest balcony and share a passionate kiss with the man that I love, who loves me even more, a kiss so powerful that for a moment we would forget how frightening and beautiful the view was.

He loved the way she looked like this. She had the innocence and excitement of a child about seeing that place. She wanted to experience this moment that she had explained so well. He wanted her to have it. Let’s go.

What?

Go to Paris! We could leave on Friday.

Are you joking? Kate could not believe that this was real. Here was a man who loved her, who cared what she dreamed of, and who wanted to make those dreams come true.

No, I’m not joking. You want to see Paris, and I want to show it to you.

Really? Her smile was radiant. The excitement shone in her eyes, then suddenly her glance fell and her smile faded.

What is it? Don’t you want to go to France?

Yes, of course I do, but I just. I can’t stop thinking about them.

Who can’t you stop thinking of?

The people I left behind. She was ashamed to even admit it to him, or to herself. No one she had left behind and really cared for her. She had given so much of herself over the years for their expectations. They had only given her a broken heart.

Marc pulled her close to him, letting her sink her face into his chest for a moment. I understand what you are going through. It’s not normally a good idea to check in on them, but if you need to then I’ll take you.

Kate thought about it for a moment more. Was this really what she wanted to do? They had always disappointed her before. Instead of offering comfort, she could very likely be setting herself up for pain. I think I have to. I need to know what is happening with them.

It’s settled then, we’ll go in the morning.

They went back inside and found that Enric and Natasha had fallen fast asleep, leaned up against one another on the couch. Marc laughed softly. I guess we’re on our own. Let’s go up to the library. He grabbed a couple of wineglasses and a bottle of Cabernet. As she followed him up the winding staircase it became apparent to her that this was what she had been missing. When something was never quite right, when she longed for something more, all along it was this. She felt at home. They sat down on the floor of this great room. Rows upon rows of books lined the shelves from the floor to the ceiling. It was dark, except for the soft ambient light given off by the sconces. Marc grabbed a book and began thumbing through it. He found the page that he was looking for and began to recite it.

He looked at her as he spoke, his eyes rarely falling on the pages. This was a book that he knew by heart, Chaucer’s The Knight’s Tale. The Destiny, minister general, that executeth in the world o’er all, the purveyance which God hath seen beforne, so strong it is, that tho the world had sworn the contrary of a thing by yea or nay, Yet sometime it shall fallen on a day that falleth not oft in a thousand year; For, certainly, our appetites here, be it of war, or peace, or hate, or love, all this is ruled by the sight above. As he finished the passage, he turned the book around and handed it to her. What do you think?

Gracefully, he picked up a wineglass and filled it halfway. She took it lightly in her hands and tried to think as she stared into the glass, swirling it a bit. She wasn’t used to being asked what she thought very much, especially about something so profound. She doubted her own intelligence. What alternate interpretation of the words could she give him that would make any sense at all? She had been forced to drop out of college because of lack of support. Financially and emotionally she had no means to continue her education. It would have been pointless anyway being that she was forbidden to have a career or occupation outside of her home. All she knew of life was the little bit that she herself had experienced. Her narrow experiences seemed so miniscule next to the ages that Marc had survived.

Don’t over think it. I don’t want a contrived answer. I want to know what you really think.

Kate took a big drink of wine. She wanted to open up to him, but she wasn’t sure how. She decided to just tell him what she thought as plain and simply as she could. I think that he’s talking about fate and how some things are destined to happen.

Que sera, sera?

Yes, to some extent. She was horrible at explaining things, and especially horrible at speaking to him in any intelligent way. It didn’t matter because here they were. In a way it was nice to have him so interested in her thoughts.

Interesting, what do you mean by that?

There are some things in life that we are meant to experience. Circumstances will always shift us back to certain situations until we walk through it and learn something. This had seemed true from what she had seen in her own life, and with family members. Some of them were in an endless repeating cycle. Most of those people were selfish, and unwilling to look inward for answers to hardships.

Have we no say in our own destinies then?

I think so, because there are lessons to be learned and many alternate paths to attain that understanding. We are meant to accomplish a certain level of enlightenment and self-improvement. How we go about learning those life lessons is up to us. We have free will to choose how, or to choose to do nothing at all.

Yes, I suppose so. He smiled as he sipped the cabernet. He was so relaxed around her. It was easy to mirror that. He made her feel at ease. She tried, but couldn’t remember the last time that someone really listened to what she had to say like he did. Your turn, choose one. Ask me anything you want.

She scanned the titles of the books behind him. All of the covers and titles seemed to blur together, except for one which stood out from the rest. She leaned over Marc’s left shoulder and pulled the book gently from the shelf. It was Emma by Jane Austen. She had read a copy of it as a young girl. She remembered being taken away by the characters. The cover was a warn canvas, but with letters inlaid with gold leaf. Just the cover itself was beautiful. He continued to sip his wine giving her time to collect her thoughts. This was nice, sharing this quiet moment with someone else. She never had shared such peaceful and quiet moments with someone before. Books were impractical. They took up time, and time for herself had never been an allowable priority. The attitudes of her family didn’t keep her from reading little by little at night when everyone slept, or during the few rare moments that she could steal away during the day. It was in those fleeting moments that she first began her friendship with Marc. She felt so comfortable there beside him. She knew that his actions were genuine. He wanted to know who she was. Finally, she found the page that she was looking for and began to read.

I must see someone far superior to anyone I have seen yet to be tempted.. I would rather not be tempted. I cannot really change for the better. If I were to marry, I must expect to repent it…She flipped through a few pages and began reading again. Emma’s eyes were instantly withdrawn: and she sat silently meditating, in a fixed attitude for a few minutes. A few minutes were sufficient for making her acquainted with her own heart. A mind like hers, once open to suspicion made rapid progress. She touched-she admitted- she acknowledged the whole truth. Why was it so much worse that Harriet should be in love with Mr. Knightley, than with Frank Churchill? Why was evil so dreadfully increased by Harriet’s having some hope of a return? It darted through her, with the speed of an arrow, that Mr. Knightly must marry no one but herself.

Kate took in a deep breath, and then glanced up. Her eyes met Marc’s in an understanding gaze. He just looked at her for a moment, and then he spoke low and inquisitive. So, what do you think of that?

I think they are very brave. Kate remembered the anticipation that she felt when she first read Emma. It seemed tragic how close that Emma and Mr. Knightly were to one another and were still blind to how perfect they were for each other. Emma worried so much over other people’s happiness that she didn’t think of her own until it could have been too late. Even still, once she realized her mistake, she went for what she wanted with all the passion and determination that she had brought to all of her other endeavors.

It surprised Marc that brave was the first word that she chose to describe the situation between Emma and Mr. Knightly. Really, how were they brave? They spent so much time wasted before they came together in the end.

They were brave because it’s brave to make that kind of change or realization at all. It’s strange about some people, but they would rather stay where things are bad than make a different choice. The comfort of familiarity is not worth the risk, even if it means a losing a chance for happiness.

Yes, I suppose so. Marc couldn’t help but notice the seriousness in her face when she tried to explain her thoughts. It was almost a pained expression. It could be a difficult thing for him to talk about his feelings too, he understood that much in her. Still, he could not resist the chance to learn more about her. For all the similarities that she had from their time before, there were new things about her. The centuries had changed them both for different reasons, and in different ways. He wanted to learn who she was, and he wanted her to see him for who he had become. They needed this so that they could move forward together. It was interesting and it was beautiful.

Kate was becoming more and more comfortable expressing her thoughts to Marc about the books and characters. It was easier in a way to talk about situations that weren’t their exact situation. The wine probably helped a little too, she had lost track of how many glasses that she had sipped to empty as she read and talked with Marc. For hours they sat, drinking the cabernet and reading passages to one another from book after book.

Marc pushed himself up from the hardwood floor and thumbed through another row of books. He went straight to the right place, so it was clear that there was something specific he had in mind. This is one of my favorites. He took down Wuthering Heights, by Emily Bronte and began to read. Catherine Earnshaw, may you not rest as long as I am living… I know that ghosts have wandered the earth. Be with me always- take any form.

Marc took a moment to look down at the page, and then he searched Kate’s face for her reaction to the memorable quote. His love for her was so intense that their bond brought her back to him. I dreamt for years that ours would bring her together again somehow.

He had spent so much of his time and his energy trying to find her and to connect with her. Kate couldn’t help but wonder if she could ever live up to the expectation of her that he must have built over time. There was no way to know really. It was obvious that he was intrigued by her, and that he loved her entirely. Some things are just beyond control. Some things must be left to time and the universe and there is no way to plot the course of them. They sat there in that old library with its big round top windows until the early morning, reading, talking, and laughing.

The sun danced