by Zenia, Zara
“Who, Marvin?”
“Yeah! How does he keep getting it? Why is he doing this to me?” Tears sting my eyes. “Why can’t he just leave me alone?”
“Where are you?”
I swallow hard, dashing the tears from my cheeks. “At school. Bella, what am I going to do?” I whisper. “I can’t afford to move again.”
“Are you still not talking to James?”
“Don’t harp on me about him right now. I have enough on my plate worrying about Marvin. Please.”
“I’m just saying,…he’s offered to protect you from Marvin. You should let him.”
She says it so matter-of-factly that I want to tell her why I’m not speaking to him. “You don’t understand, he’s… there’s just some things he told me… about his past—”
“Things like what?” I can hear the curiosity in her voice.
“It doesn’t matter—”
“If it doesn’t matter, then call him! He makes you happy, Carolyn. You know it, and I know it.”
“I don’t know if I can… it might be too late now anyway,” I say with a sniffle. “Besides, I’m not sure I’m okay with what he told me.”
“It can’t be that bad. I mean seriously, the guy has money. What, did he rob a bank or something? Shoot somebody and steal it all? Is he part of the mafia? Come on…he doesn’t strike me as a really violent predator, Care.”
I sigh. “No, he’s not part of the mafia, he’s a—” I stop the word vampire from spilling from my lips as I search for another word to use in its place. “He’s had some mental issues…” I finish lamely.
“Seriously? You’re holding that against the guy? You? You’re going into psychology to help people who have mental problems! He brings up a past where he’s had problems, and you leave him over it?”
“I know, but—”
“So what is it? Is he schizophrenic? Does he have delusions of grandeur? Does he think he’s Santa Claus? Oooh or maybe he thinks he’s Christian Grey? That one I could get behind.” Bella laughs. “Does he have a red room?”
“Bella, stop. No, none of those things.” I half laugh. “And that’s none of your business.” I know my cheeks are bright pink, as I recall what we did in his dungeon basement.
“Uh-huh, I knew he was kinky!”
“I just… what if he has more issues?”
“Then you help him through it. Just like he can help you now with your Marvin problem. Speaking of, what did Marvin have to say this time?”
I sigh. “That I can’t hide from him, and he has eyes everywhere. What if he’s here?”
“Then you should go see James now. Don’t wait. Unless you really don’t want to be with him.”
“That’s the problem. I do. And not just because of Marvin.”
“Then go. Talk to him.”
I nod. “Okay.”
Chapter 19
James
I had her back in my arms for a moment, and then I had to watch her walk away. I should never have told her. I should have just cared for her. Loved her for as long as I could, and then arranged to have her taken care of for the rest of her life and left her. At least then I would still have her in my life, even if it was only for a decade or two.
Still, my heart holds out hope that she will find her way back to me. Knowing her ex is still out there, I’ve kept watch over her as much as I am able. Sitting in the parking lot of her apartment complex, listening for the sound of violence directed toward her. Following her as she visits Bella, goes out to eat, picks up things from the store, or goes to work.
I know I’m stalking her, but I can’t let her go… not knowing that Marvin is still a threat to her. I should have asked for a picture of him, so I can track him down. All she’d given me was his first name, so I can’t even do a decent internet search for him. I suppose I could ask Bella, but I don’t want her to tell Carolyn that I’m stalking her, trying to keep her safe. Not if she does not wish for me to be around.
As another week passes with no reply to my texts. I think I may need to wipe the memory of our final conversation from her mind. I don’t want to take away all of the memories we share, but that last one… where I told her I am a vampire, that would need to go. I know she hasn’t shared that with anyone. I would have heard about it by now if she had. I probably should have compelled her not to.
I see the light in her living room turn on and try once more, one last time to reach her.
Carolyn, I understand your need for time, I do. I understand why you have ignored my texts up till now. I pray that you will answer me this time and come back to me. If you do not, I understand that too, and I will not bother you again. Please know that you will always have my heart, and no matter what you decide, I will make sure you are protected from Marvin. Be safe, my dearest one.
* * *
Carolyn
I stare down at the text, my fingers hovering over the reply button. I’d been sitting in the dark, wanting to call him, to tell him about the new threatening message, but I didn’t want him to think that was the only reason I was calling. I had just turned on the light when the text pinged my phone. Biting my lip, I text him back.
I miss you.
A knock sounds on my door a moment later, and I glance up. Fearing it’s Marvin, I get up slowly and move to the door, peer out the peep hole and open it in relief. I smile as he sweeps me into his arms.
“How did you get here so fast?” I ask, pulling out of his hug.
“With your ex threatening you, I wanted to be close at hand when I could. I’ve been sitting in your parking lot for about an hour.”
I frown at him. “You’re protecting me? Even after I ran away from you?”
He reaches for me, cupping my cheek. “I will always protect you.”
I can see the shadow of darkness in his eyes, but I can see tenderness there too, and something in me trusts him. Trusts that his words have been real and that he truly will protect me from anything and everything. Including Marvin. “Thank you.”
“May I come in?” he asks.
I realize we are standing in the doorway, and I nod. “Yes, I think we need to talk.”
“Have you considered whether or not you want to be with me?”
We sit down on the sofa, and I take his hand. “Yes, but first, I need to know that this is real. That you are… what you say you are.”
“I can do that. Just know that I mean you no harm.”
He takes a breath and bares his teeth, and I watch fangs grow in his mouth. I make a little squeak sound and cover my mouth as my eyes grow wide. His fangs retract, and he gives me a look of concern.
“I’m okay, I just… that was… very strange.” I gulp and take a moment to realize that he was true to his word. He didn’t harm me. In fact, he’s never harmed me or anyone who apparently didn’t deserve it. At least if he was telling the truth, he hasn’t, and I have no reason to doubt him.
He brushes a stray hair from my forehead and gives me a tender look. “I’ve missed you, pet.” He smiles. “Have you considered what all I told you?”
“Yes. I want to be with you, James.”
His smile widens. “And you do not mind that I am a vampire?”
“You may be a vampire, but you aren’t a predator. You’ve never harmed me. As far as you’ve told me, the only people you’ve harmed have been other vampires or enemies of war. I feel safe with you.”
His hand moves to the back of my neck and pulls me to him to kiss me, and I don’t resist. After a moment, he breaks the kiss and looks at me. “You’ll keep my secret?”
“Yes. I will keep your secret.”
“Then there is more I need to tell you, pet. Things you need to know.” He expels a breath. “I came to Tucson for a reason. First, there is a vampire king here who is benevolent. Not all are. Second, I came here because of Aubrey. I have no wish to do him more harm than I did in those first few years of my new life. After killing my sire and brethren, I did a few things that… well let’s just say
I helped the colonists win the war with Britain,” he starts, but then with a sigh gives me a fuller explanation. “The British Army officers who were here in the new colonies had never met Lord Nathan Pettigrew. I used his persona to gather intelligence from the British to share with the colonists. When the war ended, Washington informed the British government of the help Lord Nathan Pettigrew had given the colonists, and the king confiscated his title, lands, and funds.”
“I read about that.” I smile. “Well, not that you impersonated him, but that the government confiscated all of his property.”
He nods. “Well, by doing that, Aubrey was left without resources. I hadn’t realized it, but he’s been after me ever since. He recently found me in Canada and burned my home to the ground. I could have killed him. I probably should have, but I felt that was his way of getting back at me for taking everything from him. I thought to start over here, but it is possible that Aubrey is not going to be satisfied with simply destroying my property. I have no wish to kill him. I’m not a violent person, but it may come to that, and I will if it is necessary.”
“I understand.” I put my hand on his arm, comforting him. “I’m sorry,” I say. “I’m sorry you had to leave your home, but I’m glad you came to Tucson. I’m glad we met.”
“I am as well, pet.” He smiles. “Do you have questions?”
I bite my lip, thinking about what I want to ask. “Well, I tried to do some research on vampires over the last two weeks, and I’m not sure what is fact and what is fiction. But I think I have some of it figured out. I only hear from you after the sun has set, so can you only be out when it’s dark?”
“Yes. I can’t be awake during the day, the sunlight will kill me if I am in it for too long. All vampires must sleep during the day.”
“And why your skin is so cold?” I ask.
“Yes, though I don’t have an answer as to why.”
I nod and then frown. “You said you’re a silversmith, so silver doesn’t hurt you? Like in the books?” My face grows warm as I try to remember all the things I’d found online about vampires.
He chuckles. “No, that’s a myth. Like crosses and garlic.” He smiles and says, “We don’t sparkle in the sunlight either, just in case you were wondering.”
I laugh. “Well that’s just silly. Of course, you don’t if sunlight can kill you.” I roll my eyes.
“Exactly.” He smiles.
“And the blood play, that’s so you can drink from willing people?” I ask.
“It is.” He nods, giving me an uncertain look. “So, are we good, pet? Do you wish to keep seeing me, or do you wish you’d never met me?”
“I don’t regret meeting you, James. And I do wish to keep seeing you.” I smile, taking his hand again. “I know I don’t have to worry about you now. Not to say I’m not still worried about Marvin showing up, but I’m not worried about him hurting you anymore.”
“I am glad, pet. Have you heard from him again?”
“Yes. He sent me another text, though I don’t know how he got my number again.” I show him my phone.
“He sent this today?”
“Yes.”
James frowns. “I think you should stay with me tonight.”
I blink at him. “With you?”
“Yes, my house is safer. Come, get your things.”
I do as he asks and pack a bag, gathering all the things I’ll need. “I’ll have to follow you. I have classes tomorrow.” I smile up at him. “Thank you for letting me stay with you.” He lifts my chin and looks in my eyes. “You can stay with me any time you wish, pet. Just know, once the sun rises, I will not be capable of leaving the house. So if you leave in the daylight, I cannot protect you.”
I nod. “I understand. Thank you, sir.”
Once we reach his house, he pulls me into his arms and kisses me. “You’ve had a long day, pet. Have you had dinner?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good, then I think a nice soak in the bath and bed is what you need now. Come,” he says, squeezing my hand and standing, pulling me to him.
“Yes, sir.” I smile and go with him.
Chapter 20
James
I wake the next evening to find a note from Carolyn.
Dear sir,
Thank you for letting me stay. I got hungry and went to the kitchen, you have no food! What do you eat? Anyway, I called an Uber to take me home to get my books and go to class. I work until seven. I’ve already texted you my schedule, so you have it now. When you wake, if you want to text me, I promise to answer. :)
<3 Carolyn
Smiling, I pick up my phone to see she did indeed send her schedule, as promised. I decide to shower and dress for the evening and text her back.
Pet, I occasionally eat food, but it is not necessary. You know what I ‘eat’ to survive. Would you like to meet me at Club Toxic this evening after work? I was thinking we could do another scene.
Carolyn: Good to know, sir :) What time do you want me?
Can you be there by eight-thirty? I shall check with Theo to see if there is a room available for this evening.
Carolyn: Yes, sir. I will be there. :)
I know that she gets off work in thirty minutes, so I head out the door to go to Club Toxic. As I climb into my car, my phone rings.
“Pet, is everything all right?” I ask.
“No, Marvin is here, I don’t know how. I didn’t notice him before, but he followed me out of the parking lot. He’s following me now, sir,” she says, clearly panicked.
“He’s not trying to harm you, is he? Hitting your car, forcing you to drive to a certain location?”
“No, sir, not yet,” she says calmly, but I can hear that she’s scared.
I want to rip this guy’s head off like I did to my sire. “Do you want me to call the police for you, pet? You have a restraining order out on him. They will arrest him.”
Her breath is shaky as she says, “I’ve been down this road with him so many times. They might arrest him, but he’ll bribe the cops and be back out in an hour and be even more dangerous to me. I file the restraining orders because it’s my only legal course of action. They just don’t really do a lot of good.”
“I understand, pet. Listen, just go straight to the club. I am headed there now. Do not go home—just drive straight to the club. I will get there before you. Do you want me to stay on the phone with you?” I say, hitting the gas and speeding down the road.
“Please, sir?” she answers.
“I’m close. Where are you?”
“About ten minutes from the club, sir.”
“I’ll be there in five,” I say, pressing on the pedal and bumping my speed up to ninety as I swerve in and out of traffic, avoiding other cars. If a cop happens to follow me, he’ll have to chase because I’m not stopping until I get to the club. “Pet, talk to me. How was your day?”
“Good, sir. I made it to class on time and had a good day at work… well, until now.”
“Tell me about work—what do you do?”
“Um, well, I’m only an intern right now, so I’m not technically in charge of anyone. I work with Dr. Benford. We run group and individual therapy sessions for our patients. We have both outpatient clients as well as some who stay with us for a time, depending on how they are feeling. Right now, we have about forty-six patients staying with us. There is another doctor who also sees the patients, Dr. Miller, but I only work with Dr. Benford.”
“And what do these patients check in for?” I ask, just to keep her distracted and talking as I pull into the parking lot.
“Oh, most of our patients suffer from panic attacks, high anxiety, sometimes depression and suicidal thoughts... those are the ones who check in and stay for a while. We have a full medical staff that rotates in and out, so there is always someone on site to see patients.”
“That is good, pet. Are you close?” I ask as I climb out of my Jag.
“Just down the street, sir.”
I see her Bla
zer moving toward me and watch her swing into the lot. A black SUV slows down and drives by slowly as Augustus comes out of the club, I presume to see why we are there in the parking lot before the club even opens. The SUV then peels off down the street.
“What’s going on?” he asks, approaching me.
Carolyn jumps out of her Blazer, hurries over to me and slams her body against mine. I hold her close. “The man who abused Carolyn has been following her. I told her to come here instead of going home.”
Augustus nods. “Yeah, not a good idea to lead him to your house. Good thinking. We’re not open yet, not until eight, but you can come in. I don’t think Theo will care.”
“Thank you. That is most appreciated.”
We follow him in. Carolyn is shaking in my arms. I lead her over to a chair, but she is unwilling to sit down and presses closer to me.
“I think maybe she needs a drink. I know you’re not open yet, but would you mind?”
“Nah, don’t worry about it. I’ll get her a shot of whiskey. You want anything?”
“I’m fine,” I reply.
As Augustus makes her drink, Theo comes out of his office, sees us and comes down the steps. “We aren’t open yet. Why are you here?” he demands, looking from Carolyn curled into me to Augustus who brings her the drink. “He better be paying for that. Drinks aren’t free!”
Augustus frowns at him. “Look, the girl is distraught. I told her Club Toxic is a safe place. Back off, brother.”
Theo frowns. “What the fuck is going on around here? Lucius left me in charge, not you, Augustus. We aren’t running a fucking safe haven for humans!”
Augustus’ eyes widen, and he looks at Carolyn and frowns. “Maybe not, but this woman is under my protection,” he says, daring Theo to defy him.
“Technically, she’s under my protection,” I put in, and then smile at Augustus, “but I thank you for offering her yours as well.”
Augustus nods and glares at Theo.
