by Nancy Glynn
Daisy would be joining him on that dark side, it seemed. She would have to let go of God if she didn’t win the battle. His chest constricted at the thought. This all fell on Eric to be there with the cross. He counted on him. Jack was a pretty smart man. If he had even an inkling of their plan, Eric would die. But Eric didn’t care. He wanted to help Daisy, and for that, Christian was grateful. He would never forget it. He wished he could get the cross to her himself, but he couldn’t hold it or touch it this close to his birthday time.
The sounds of the servers downstairs getting ready for the big event drifted up to his room. They didn’t throw too many parties, so this was an exciting time for them.
“Ready, son?” his father asked, poking his head in the door.
“I am,” he said, turning to him and giving a small smile.
“Let me pin this on you first,” William said, placing a mint green rose on his lapel. “There, now you’re ready.”
“Why green?”
“You’ll be matching Daisy.”
“Perfect. She looks beautiful in green,” Christian said.
William handed him a clear box with a matching flower for Daisy’s wrist. “Thanks, Dad. My mind keeps forgetting she’ll be by my side. It’s like I can’t accept it, it’s too good.”
“It’s how I felt at my ceremony with your mother,” William said, crinkling his eyes with mirth.
“Right." He put the box in his coat pocket, walked to the door, and turned back. “I need to ask, how did you allow him to touch her that way?”
He sighed heavily. “It nearly killed me. I looked away. I’m more worried for Daisy as he’ll be giving her his seed, which could be more complicated.”
Christian crossed his brows. “Why didn’t he impregnate Mom? Why Daisy?”
“Because she’s the one, son. He tells me he’s planned this all along for centuries, but that’s as far as he’ll say. I don’t ask more than that. I sometimes think he’s trying to recreate Suzanna. Let’s go down to start greeting our guests.”
“You clean up nicely, Dad. Rental?”
“Me, rent? Come on,” he grinned. “Let’s start your birthday.”
***
Daisy glanced at her dungeon prison for the last time. She prayed no other girl would ever be brought down here again after her. The gown fit her perfectly, thanks to Lizzy. She sat on the bed with her white-laced gloved hands folded on her lap.
It was six o’clock, the time guests would be arriving at Stone Manor.
Stone Manor. So many good memories there. She pictured the first floor filled with chairs like a wedding would look. She longed to look into those deep, brown eyes once again, to see that dimple in his smile, to love him like she missed doing.
The door opened and a different girl appeared. “Ready, Miss Daisy?” she asked indifferently in a British accent, not the Irish brogue of Lizzy’s.
“Where’s Lizzy...I mean Elizabeth?”
“Oh, she went to get married. She said to wish you good luck. I’m Diana. I’ll be driving you." Her pretty blue eyes swept over Daisy. “My, but you are a vision. Too bad...” she added, shaking her dark head.
“Why too bad?”
“Uh, that I won’t be at the dance to enjoy this event with you. I’m needed back for other duties,” she smiled and waved her to come through the door.
Daisy pulled the white-laced shawl over her shoulders and looked around once more before leaving for good. She wasn’t too surprised to find a white, stretch Limo waiting to escort her and Diana, but a little confused thinking Diana was driving.
“I think I’ll be fine by myself, Diana. You can get back to your other duties,” she said, enunciating duties. She slid in and stared at the girl.
“No, Miss Daisy. I’m instructed to sit with you." Diana slid in and allowed the door to be closed by the chauffeur. “Are you feeling okay?” she asked.
Daisy gave a nervous laugh. “Okay? Well, no, not really. I have no idea what’s waiting for me. I’m sure you’re aware of what happens at these events. Can I just have quiet until we get there?”
She shook her head with vigor. “That’s the thing. Jack doesn’t like quiet. He says that’s when the soul sneaks in and gives you inspirational thoughts,” she answered in a clipped tone.
“Well then, let the inspiration come! I’m not speaking anymore!" She closed her eyes and then heard Diana humming some obnoxious tune, getting louder and louder, almost sounding demonic.
“Jesus, be quiet!”
No sound.
Daisy opened her eyes to find Diana’s mouth tightly closed. Her eyes widened at the sight of the maiden.
“Diana, can you talk?”
She slowly shook her head.
Daisy smiled and realized the power festering in her. “Very good,” she purred. She closed her eyes and allowed the thoughts to bathe her mind. In her mind, she heard in another voice to go in there and act like the queen that everyone is waiting for, let them bow to you. And when you are presented with the chance, kiss Jack and touch the cross to his chest at the exact same time.
She spoke in her mind to the voice and said she didn’t have the cross, what then? Just keep the faith and never let Jack see into your eyes, look away, look down, but don’t let him see.
She then asked what if she can’t accomplish this act. The voice answered that she must, there is no other way. The strength has lived in her since she was a child, she was born for this day.
She opened her eyes as she felt the Limo slow down in front of the familiar gate. Her heart quickened at the memory. It also quickened when she saw Diana’s eyes turn black from blue.
There were about thirty cars in the driveway, all waiting for her...little Daisy, kindergarten teacher Daisy, Christian’s Daisy.
The chauffeur double parked and walked around to her door. She glanced back at Diana and said “Speak.”
“Enjoy your time in there, Miss Daisy. You won’t be the same when you walk back out, I can guarantee you that!”
“You’re right, Diana. Hopefully I’ll be even stronger.”
The girl scoffed. “Stronger? Your soul will be as black as mine,” she answered in a deeper voice. “If not more so. You think Elizabeth really got married?”
“What happened to Lizzy? Tell me!”
Diana only cackled in response.
“Damn you!" Daisy slid out, taking hold of the driver’s offered hand, and strode up the walkway holding her gown to keep from tripping. The starry September night clouded all around her as she walked up the steps, music flowing from the house she once called home.
Chapter Twenty-Nine
The doorman stopped her and asked her to wait for a moment while he disappeared inside the grand home. Moments later, the party noise hushed to a whisper, the music turned into a sweet somber melody.
She took a deep breath and began to move as she was ushered in. Just as Jack had wanted, all eyes feasted upon her. Intakes of breath filled the grand foyer.
Standing at the door unsure of what to do, Christian was beside her, taking her arm through his. “Hello, beautiful.”
Tears glistened her eyes, and she lowered her lashes with a smile. “Christian,” she whispered. She returned her gaze to the congregation and sighed heavily, taking the first step with Christian down the red-carpeted aisle.
Daisies were strewn down on the carpet, white in contrast with the red. Smiling nods as they passed, bowing in accordance.
As they reached the end of the carpet, a small chamber orchestra played in the corner. Christian directed her to the center for their first dance. “Oh, I almost forgot. Allow me,” he said, pinning her rose to her dress.
“It’s lovely. Thank you.”
He stared into her eyes. “God, I’ve missed you, Daisy. I have so much to say." He wrapped his arm around her waist and took her right hand with his left.
“I’m not sure how to dance,” Daisy admitted.
“Just follow my lead.”
A sweet song ab
out finally being together at last began to play and she followed along. “Who is that singer?”
“My cousin, Anna. She’s good, right? I chose her just for this.”
“She is. And you chose that song?”
“It’s how I feel,” he said, looking down into her eyes.
She smiled and rested her cheek against his chest. He spun her around and she laughed, everyone clapping and joining in. Her aunt and uncle danced close by and smiled at her. It was like their memory had been erased, and they forgot about what part she had in their son’s death. Or maybe they would enjoy watching what Jack will do to her later, giving them some revenge.
She shivered at the thought and looked away. Her father and Gloria danced on her other side, smiling at the happy couple. Gloria winked at her with a knowing smirk, reminding Daisy of their last encounter and that she would never be free of Jack. The cackling that came from her. But now she acted the demure lady.
Gloria would also enjoy the later activities, her way of getting back at Daisy for stealing her father’s love from her, for hating her all those years growing up with her.
“Did he hurt you?” Christian asked without looking down at her, not wanting anyone to suspect anything.
“I’ll live. He only used my body,” she spoke into his chest.
“I could rip his fucking head off, excuse my language.”
She laughed. “Please, I grew up in Chicago. Language?" She shook her head. “And it’s not his head you should be concerned with.”
“Fine, I’ll rip his–”
“Hey!” she said with nervous laughter.
“Sorry. I want to kiss you so damn bad but I can’t, not until after my official birthday time. Not really twenty-one until the time. Everything’s a time with these people,” he said.
“I feel the same, Christian.”
He glanced down at her and back up. “Stop looking at me like that or I will.”
She smiled. “Where is he anyway?”
“He’ll make his presence known soon. There are things I want to tell you, but I can’t take the chance. It’ll hurt...things,” he said, glancing quickly at her.
“I understand. I’m scared to death, Christian. I’m scared how this will all turn out,” she whispered.
“Just remember how strong you are and you’ll be fine. I believe in you. No matter what happens tonight, I’ll love you forever, Daisy.”
Tears burned her eyes. “You know I feel the exact same. If I do end up carrying his child, as long as I walk the same path as you, I can do it.”
He nodded, clenching his jaw.
A DJ came out and started playing more modern music for the younger guests. The older guests sat down to drink and gossip while watching the new moves.
Emily stood there in a long, white gown and daisies in her long, golden hair. She bowed to her. “Hail Daisy. I’m really honored to be the chosen one for you,” she smiled a dazzling smile.
Daisy swallowed hard and tried to speak but couldn’t find the words, trying to keep the tears from welling.
Christian spoke up. “What an honor for us that you were chosen. Thank you, sweetheart,” he said.
When Daisy finally cleared her throat, she turned to the child and held her hand in hers. “I am much honored. Your parents must be so proud of what a remarkable young brave lady you are. I hope to have a daughter just like you one day, Emily.”
The little girl beamed at the compliment and handed her the unicorn she so loved. “If you do, will give her this? His name is Magic.”
Daisy choked and held the unicorn, nodding.
Emily then grabbed her mother’s hand to walk off, the mother smiling back at Daisy with pride.
“I promise I won’t ever allow anything like that happen to her,” he murmured in her ear.
“It kills me to think what’ll happen to her. I can’t allow it, Christian. I won’t!” she hissed for only his hearing.
“I know, my love. Do you want a drink...some water?”
She took in the party scene of all that came to witness this dark ceremony. “No water tonight for me. Get me something sweet, please,” she softly ordered.
“Yes, ma’am!” he grinned and walked to the bar.
Daisy snuck to a darker corner to have some privacy after being barraged by congratulating guests. A voice boomed in her head. “No alcohol. You cannot become intoxicated when you need all your senses fully intact for tonight.”
Christian found her and gave her a tall glass.
“I can’t, Christian.”
“It’s water. I know you too well,” he smiled.
She sipped it and smiled back. “You do." There’s no getting drunk tonight. He pushed her back a little farther and put his finger to her lips to quiet her.
“What’re you up to, Mr. Stone?”
“This." He pressed his lips to hers softly at first and then cupping her face, growing more ardent. “How I love you so,” he breathed against her mouth.
“I love you, too,” she returned his urgency, feeling his tongue caress hers, possessing her. “No matter what happens tonight, my heart belongs to you always, Christian.”
He pulled away. “That probably zapped some of your strength. Damn it!”
“It’s okay. What’s meant to happen will happen no matter what we do.”
They fixed themselves and returned to the party and all the bowing.
“I’ll never get used to that. I’m just Daisy, not some queen.”
He pulled her out to a fast song. “Yes, you are the queen here and with nice moves!”
She laughed and something caught her eye in the crowd. As he got closer, her eyes widened.
“Eric?” she mumbled.
Christian turned to find their friend moving through the people. “You didn’t think he wouldn’t come, did you?”
“Christian, Jack told me he was dead!" She stopped dancing, scared for him to come closer. “I don’t think Jack would want Eric near me if he wants me to believe that,” she said in a panicked voice.
Christian put his hand up to stop him from coming any closer, shaking his head. Eric stopped and looked confused, putting his hands up in question.
Daisy smiled at him, wanting to run to him and hug him with all her might. He was alive! She waved her hand away, signaling for him to go back.
Eric seemed to understand and moved in another direction.
“When did he tell you Eric died?”
“When he first captured me. I asked where Eric was, and he told me he was dead. I nearly died when he said that.”
“Damn. Eric came to Stone Manor the day you disappeared. He was frantic with worry, something about some storm. I’ll make sure he stays away. Oh, and he has something of yours,” he said, raising his brows.
She understood. Her cross. But how would she get it?
“I wish I could give it to you, but I can’t.”
She nodded. “I’m just so thrilled he’s alive and well,” she said. “That’s celebration enough to dance!”
They swayed against each other like no one was in the room but them, rocking to the beat of the music. She moved as well as she could in her gown, not the most mobile material.
“I know what’s under that dress. I don’t need to see it,” he said in a smoky voice.
She raised her brows in a suggestive manner, grinning and flirting as if nothing bad could possibly happen tonight.
Life was good in this moment of being twenty-two. It was an age she might remain if Jack had his way. If it was beside Christian, she might be able to do it.
The mixed faces in the crowd began to morph from human to non-human. Their eyes turned black, their mouths elongated, stretching their chin down to their chest, their tongues protruding.
The music faded down into the background in her head. Her heart pounded alarmingly in her ears. Christian didn’t even look like himself but something more sinister. Was it her imagination? Eric drifted near the front door, almost pleading with her for somethi
ng.
She needed to get her cross. That would make her feel safer. Who could she trust at this point? They all wanted something from her, and she was being slowly seduced by the music and festivities. “I’ll be right back, restroom duties,” she gave an apologetic smile.
“Okay, but hurry,” he instructed, clipping her chin.
She made her way toward the main floor powder room, looking over to where Eric stood, the music pumping and vibrating the whole house. Strobe lights flashed, giving the guests an even more demonic appearance.
Eric seemed to try to get to her, but was almost held back by a mob of people.
She slipped into the bathroom and inhaled deeply, praying for guidance. For the first time tonight, she felt genuine fear engulf her.
Pacing in the tiny space, she wished there was a way to escape, get out of here. But she couldn’t leave Christian. He pulled her to him, like an invisible tethered cord.
A knock on the door startled her. “Someone’s in here,” she said.
“Daisy, it’s me...Eric.”
She stopped and stared at the door, not sure what to believe.
“Daisy?” he repeated.
After hesitating, she slowly opened the door and saw Eric with his beautiful black-rimmed glasses. “Oh, Eric,” she whispered, her voice trembling. “I wish I could dance with you tonight. I hate that Jack can’t know you’re here.”
“Take this,” he said, handing her the cross. “I’ll slip out the doors so Jack doesn’t see me, even though I’m sure he already has.”
“Thank you, Eric. You’re truly my best friend. I love you,” she said. She placed her hand out for him to touch it, and felt the cold metal against her palm, drawing a heart around the cross with his index finger. Tears glistened in her eyes.
“Take care, Daisy. Be safe." And he was gone.
Closing the door and locking it, she opened her hand. The cross fell to the floor as it burned a hole in the same shape into her skin.
“God, no!” she cried, bending to retrieve it, but it burned the tips of her fingers. “I don’t understand!” she whispered to the ceiling.
She stood and looked at her reflection, finding dilated pupils staring back at her.
