Bloods Gem

by Gloria Conway

  On the way back to Gina's my mind raced. I knew they would ask questions about my hand. What could I say? And I knew they would ask why I was going back to a hotel to stay with Daniel.

  He glanced over, “You need an excuse?” he asked.

  I wondered how he knew what I was thinking.

  “You slipped on some water in the cafe and fell on your hand.”

  It sounded plausible. As we approached the house, I felt tense and unsure, knowing they would see through the lie I was about to tell them. He placed his hand on my thigh and smiled. “It'll be fine.”

  Doubt evaporated as I relaxed. “How do you do that?” I asked.

  He looked confused, “Do what?”

  I Looked down feeling embarrassed. “You make me feel… different.”

  He chuckled. “I can sense the way you feel,” he said grinning. I wondered what he meant by that.

  He stayed outside to make a phone call and I went inside to tell my story. Kate and Gina were sitting on the sofa. I sat down next to them.

  “Oh my god, Faith what happened to your hand?” Kate asked worried.

  “Its not that bad. I just slipped on some water and fell. Daniel went to the hospital with me.” They glanced at each other questioningly.

  “Sorry. Daniel is the guy I met at the bar last night.” Their eyes widened in disbelief.

  “What about Chris?” Kate yelled.

  “Daniel is just a friend. But he invited me to stay here for a few more days and wants to show me around. He’s setting me up in a hotel.”

  Kate stabbed me with an angry glare. “No. This is wrong. What about Chris? And your mom will freak out. You don’t even know this guy!” She had come off the couch and was pacing the living room.

  “I’m an adult. I do and go where I want and no one tells me what I can and cannot do. So you can sit here and yell all you want. I’m going!” I yelled, coming off the sofa. Gina stepped in between us. “Okay girls, settle down.”

  She turned to me, “Yes it is your choice what you do. If you feel like you can trust this guy you just met, then go. I'll be here if you need me. Just be careful.”

  “What’s wrong with you Gina? You think this is okay?” Kate shouted.

  Gina turned to her, “She’ll be fine. We can't tell Faith what to do. It’s her decision and its none of our business.”

  Kate glared as if she wanted to punch me. “I’m going to tell Chris when I get back!” She threatened. I shrugged, “Don’t bother I'll call him now.” I smiled. She clenched her teeth and ran upstairs.

  A knock at the door startled me. I hurried to put my phone back in my pocket and decided to call Chris later. I glanced at Gina as she moved across the room twords the door. She opened it.

  "Hello, I'm Daniel," he introduced himself. He shook Gina's hand. They came into the living room and I noticed Gina acting strange. She turned her body twords Daniel while she rubbed her neck and wouldn't stop smiling. He rolled his eyes and grinned in my direction. I stepped in between them, "Thanks Gina," I said hugging her. She patted my back and continued staring at him. Annoyed at Gina's obvious flirting, I grabbed Daniels hand. Haley stood at the top of the stairs, staring intensely at Daniel. I thought I heard a growl, but wasn't sure. Daniel stared back. Grabbing my arm he lead me outside. “Wait, my stuff,” I said.

  “I’ll send for it later,” he said hurriedly. Remembering what Haley told me, I wasn't surprised he wanted to get out quickly. A black car with tinted windows waited for us. He helped me in and shut the door, went around to the driver and whispered something. The driver made a call, while Daniel sat next to me in the back.

  “What’s wrong?” I asked him. He glanced at me. “That girl is a runaway. she’s bad news,” He said.

  “How do you know her?”

  He smiled. “She’s kind of part of my family.”

  “Small world,” I mumbled.

  He chuckled under his breath. I wondered if he really did kill Haley's mom. Surely not, I thought.

  “What is it?” He asked.

  I shook my head, “Nothing.”

  He sighed. “We'll discuss more later.”

  On the ride, Daniel gazed at me. I stared back. Looking me up and down Daniel bit the side of his lip. Closing his eyes he laid his head back on the head rest. I slid my finger across his lips. He breathed in deeply.

  “Is this okay?” I asked.

  “Yes. When you touch me it‘s incredible,” he said.

  Placing my hand on the side of his face, I slowly made my way down his neck. I leaned in and pressed my lips to his neck.

  He moaned opened his eyes and pulled me on top of him. My heart beat hard in my chest. My body burned. Tearing my shirt, he suddenly stopped and lifted me off him setting me on the seat beside him.

  “Did I do something wrong?” I asked. He shook his head and closed his eyes. “I have to be careful,” he said softly.

  “What do you mean?” I asked.

  “Please just be patient with me Love.”

  I leaned back into my seat and sighed. We sat quiet for the rest of the way.

  At the hotel, Daniel walked up to the front desk, got a key and gave it to me. Glancing at him I wondered how he had checked me in so quick. He chuckled. “My family owns it.”

  “Huh,” I said. I pinched myself as he watched. He gently pulled my chin up with one finger pressing the side of his face to mine, “Your not dreaming,” He whispered. Light-headed I stumbled and he caught me.

  “Do I do that to you?” He asked grinning.

  I kept my eyes down and nodded. He shook his head and laughed.

  Holding my hand he led me to my room. Upon entering, A big bay window looked out over the city.

  I glanced over at the king sized bed, a white canopy draped over it. Daniel slid his fingers along the side of the bed.

  “Will this do?” he asked.

  I nodded. “Definitely,” I said.

  Noticing the phone sitting on the nightstand next to the bed, I remembered needing to call Mom and Chris. I had no clue what to say to either of them. I knew I couldn't tell him I ran away with some guy and shacked up in a hotel with him. I figured Kate would go squeal on me as soon as she got back anyways. I knew Mom would be understanding, as she always was. She always tried to encourage me to do things on my own. She’s been the one trying to push me into this big world to fend for myself. I just never let the strings loose enough to make the leap.

  I turned to see what Daniel was doing. Head cocked he was looking at the floor as if he was listening to something. He met my eyes.

  “Do you need to make a phone call?” He asked.

  “Um, can you like read my mind or something?”

  He started laughing.

  “I mean it seems to me like when I’m thinking about something and I turn to you, you already know what I was thinking.” He walked over to me taking my hand in his.

  “Maybe we’re connected more then you think,” he said, winking at me. Annoyed, “Riddle me this, riddle me that. Can you not just spit out the truth? Is there something you need to tell me or am I going insane like I’ve thought from the very beginning?”

  His expression changed. “Can you just be a little more patient with me Faith? You’ll get your answers soon enough.”

  He stared out the window like he was thinking really hard about something. I folded my arms pouting.

  “Listen, I promise you there’s a reason for our connection, and it’s deeper then you think. You have no idea how long I’ve longed for you. Someone like you”

  His words hit me like a ton of bricks. He held his stomach, his expression pained.

  “I have to go, but I'll be back later. I'll write down my number, if you need anything just call.” He wrote his number on the note pad.

  “I'll have my cell on me. Just have to go do a few things. Oh, and your stuff will be here shortly, so don’t freak out when someone knocks on the door.”

  “Okay,” I said, taking a step toward him. But he
rushed out so fast I couldn’t see anything but the door closing behind him. I pulled my phone out and started dialing Mom, took a deep breath as she answered…

  Chapter Fourteen

  Daniel

  I got myself out as quickly as I could, shutting the door behind me. I did pretty good considering the circumstances. I thought I was going to hurt her really bad in the car, but I had to tell myself how much she meant to me. It felt strange thinking, that just the night before, I wanted to kill her.

  The desire to hurt her was gone. But still… It was difficult being that close to her. Tasting her, my lips and tongue on hers. It’s a cruel joke really, her being the thing I want most, but unable to keep the animal inside caged for long.

  That’s why I ran out. I knew if I stayed there one more minute being as hungry as I was, the animal could win. I wouldn’t let him win, even if that meant runaway from her.

  I found a spot to pull over. No one within smelling distance, as I roamed the woods. A quick deer would suffice. Closing my eyes, I let the animal inside take over. He was hungry and I wasn’t going to keep him waiting.

  I dashed in the direction of the defenseless creature. I wasn’t myself anymore. I was a blood-crazed monster who wanted as much blood as it took to get full. When done with the deer, I scanned the woods for anything moving.

  I ran about three miles East catching the scent of a buck. This one would definitely get the job done. I snapped its neck, he had no time to run or notice he was being hunted. Digging my fangs into the lifeless animal I drank what I could.

  I fell to my back holding my bloated stomach, feeling somewhat normal again. I was full. I wouldn’t need to eat for at least four days and was ready to tell my family the news. Thinking of telling them about finding my gem here in London, I wondered if they would believe me.

  I thought they might want me to bring her home right away, and I knew that wouldn't be a good idea. I also thought about leaving with Faith and moving to the United States. I am sure it would make her happy, and it would mean me getting away from my father for awhile, but I realized she had no clue what I was. I knew I would have to tell her that first before I began planning living arrangements.

  Not knowing her reaction, I knew I would have to prove it to her. Maybe I could pick up a car or something in front of her. Then I had a better idea. I pat myself on the back. She would think it was romantic too,with the view of the city below us….

  I drove back to my house as quickly as I could. I was only an hour late, what harm would that do? My sister was already outside, arms folded, tapping her foot.

  “Great, here comes the drama,” I said bracing myself for what was to come. Hopping out of the car, Celeste was in my face before I could shut the door.

  I stopped her before she began. “Before you yell at me and before you unleash Dad on me, hear me out, okay?”

  She stared at me hissing angrily.

  “My gem. I found her. She’s here.”

  Her eyes widened and she started jumping up and down, grabbing onto me. “Oh my gosh! I can’t believe it how? Where? When?”

  “Quick story Sis. The girl in the bar that gave you the paper to give to me. Her. I met with her today and then kissed her to see.”

  My sister’s face lit up with a smile. “Awe,” She said.

  “Okay. We’ll talk more later. I have to handle the dad situation. Please don’t tell anyone. I want more time with her before I bring her to meet everyone. She still doesn’t know what we are.”

  Celeste patted my shoulder. “She’s not going to care Dan. I mean, she’s probably already in love with you. Oh, and don’t worry about Father. He hasn’t been asking about you yet and if he does I'll cover for you. Don’t worry.”

  “Thanks Celeste. For listening before you unleashed your fury on me.” I kissed her cheek and we dashed for the door.

  After throwing my blood stained shirt in the hamper, I jumped in the shower, scrubbing Faith's scent from my body. I hurried to get dressed and ran downstairs for my party.

  Angelica waited for me at the end of the stairs.

  “Crap,” I said looking at her. I wondered what she wanted.

  “I won’t bite,” she said showing her teeth.

  I hated this girl. Countless times I remember her throwing herself at me. My constant rejection seemed to entice her. Angelica's lack of humility and superficial standards repulsed me.

  “Angelica,” I greeted her as I walked down the stairs.

  “Mmm, don’t you look handsome,” she said sniffing me.

  “Thanks Angelica, but really I don’t have time for…”

  She pulled my tie, forcing me closer to her. “You have one more night of freedom. Would you like to enjoy me on your last night, sexy man?”

  I leaned into her, giving her false hope and whispered in her ear, “You know, I would just about consider it, but I met this hot little number today and she’s human. My gem. And I'm utterly in love with her. I believe she’s the only one I will ever stick it to. You don’t even compare.”

  My words were harsh but true. She hissed and ran away. To cry somewhere dark in a corner, I thought. I laughed loudly, so she could hear.

  Walking toward the ballroom everyone was gathered. There were at least two-hundred gathered there. The room was decorated with art and my grand piano had been moved to the middle of the room.

  One of my best friends, Nick was playing one of my favorites, that he had written. I mingled among the crowd for two hours. Laughing and talking with friends. They wished me a safe journey.

  My good friend Vanessa came up and asked why I was so chipper. I shrugged but she wasn’t buying it. I moved on, scanning through the crowd to find my Mother. Dodging through the crowd of people, I was soon next to her as she finished her conversation. Turning towards me she kissed my cheek. “I’m going to miss you when you leave tomorrow Danny. Will you promise to hurry back?”

  I hugged her, “It will be a short journey,” I promised. I tried to get to everyone that mattered, leaving Dad for the end.

  Celeste caught up with me grabbing my attention by tapping my shoulder. She smiled and whispered in my ear. “Does your human need food?” She asked. I cursed myself for forgetting. Then glanced around the room to see how many more people I needed to talk to.

  “Don’t worry I'll send her some over. Where is she staying?” I gave her the hotel and room number.

  I was hoping she would leave it at that. I didn't want her bothering Faith—my new human—by trying to take a peek at her. Making my way to the piano, I took a seat and started playing. Everyone got quiet.

  While playing, I saw images of Faith and fantasized of how our life would be. I let myself sink deep into the music and began singing… “The only thing left in my life, the only thing that feels right, is now apart of me, never changing the night… So I feel it’s only right to make you my wife, tonight will be, the first day of your new life…”

  I snapped out of it when I heard clapping. Everyone had circled around me, applauding my performance. I closed my eyes hoping they’d go away, but they kept clapping. “Ugh,” this is embarrassing I thought. I stood up and took a bow hoping that would silence them. My dad came through the crowd and everyone stepped aside. He approached, putting his hand on my shoulder. The butler tagged behind him with two glasses of cougar blood. My dad giving me one, he took the other.

  “Oh great here comes the speech,” I said under my breath. Clinking of glasses echoed throughout the room. “This is to my son, whom I love dearly. Never stray from your destiny. Never waiver. Always remember you're royalty, but never above the law. Fight if the enemy crosses your path, but never surrender. Be true and stay strong. For we are your family and will be till the end of time! Now raise your glasses my family, and let’s drink to my son’s farewell.”

  I rose my glass and drank. After the toast, everyone shouted out, stupid remarks and quotes. Some funny, some wise. I smiled and nodded.

  My father took me to the side. �
��Son, I know I’ve been difficult, but for good reason. You are now a great man for it. I want you to know I will never again question you. I will trust your judgment. And will only offer advice if ask. You can now live your life in peace, if you decide you would like to stay with us after your journey, we will accept you and your gem gladly. If not, well… At least send us a postcard so we know you’re safe.”

  “Thank you sir. That means a lot to me,” I said choked up. I smiled at him and shook his hand.

  “Go Son. Do what you must.” He patted my back and pushed me off.

  I went to my room to grab the suitcase father gave me and packed some clothing. Checking my phone and I saw a new message. It was from Faith. I’m sorry Daniel. I can't stay. I have to get back to reality, my mom, my BOYFRIEND, and school. I made a mistake. I can't live in a fantasy world with you and I realize now that if you could hide all the information from me that’s important, what else can you hide from me? And I know you're not what you seem. I can’t love someone who I don’t know. Please understand. Don’t call me, don’t text me. I want to forget this ever happened.

  I fell to my knees. I can’t lose her, I can’t let her go. I was going to tell her as everything soon as I got back. Why couldn’t she just wait another ten minutes? I would have been there in less then that, if I’d known…

  I dropped my stuff and flew out the back window. I had to try to catch her. Then my phone rang. It could have been her calling. I dropped quickly and pulled it from my jacket pocket.

  “Hello, Faith?”

  “No Danny its Celeste, she’s gone. Come back.”

  “No! I have to track her down now so I can explain and make her see!” “Dan she’s already on the plane. We’ll figure it out when you get here. Now, get your ass back here, so we can make arrangements.” She begged.