The vampyre covered his body with a sheet and welcomed its coolness. It would take away the heat of desire that burned inside him. Why did she make him feel like he did long centuries ago when he was young? Then he had taken whomever he’d fancied, be she human, shifter, or demgel. There were even a few like Delia, but their goodness had soon stifled his vampyre needs. No part angel female willingly gave herself or her essence to him. His face was far from handsome, but with one touch he could make them eager to let him take whatever he wanted. Over time, he’d almost abated his sexual drive and he only took essence from females and males when his vampyre well-being demanded it.
That had all changed just over a week ago when he saw two females coming out of a restaurant that was opposite Lori’s—the bar where he usually drank several glasses of beer. He’d just left the bar and was about to get into his sedan when the two ran in front of him, laughing and holding hands. One was a lycan and quite beautiful, but it was the other who held his attention. He recognized her as being part angel and that should have ended his interest, yet he was captivated by her golden hair and pale skin.
Herres followed them to an apartment building and watched the windows until each room lay in darkness. The next morning he rose early, went to within a short distance of the building and waited with the hope that she would appear. Delia did, and he walked behind her. When she entered a bookstore on a narrow walkway and didn’t come back out, he realized she must work there. Each day he trailed behind her on the way to work and on her return in the evening. He used his vampyre power and made it impossible for Delia to sense him. The night she was attacked by vampires, he was at a distance to her rear and quickly intervened before they could consume a quantity of her blood.
Today, he’d entered the bookstore and asked to speak to Delia. He knew the man lied when he said she wasn’t there, he could sense her close by. Herres decided to bide his time and wait for her outside the apartment building. Ordering grespat juice was his way of gauging how prone she was to its influence. Some humans were easy prey once the blue drink’s effect took hold, but her angelic side probably lessened the impact on her. She remained alert and seemed to be amused by him. Also, whatever influence she felt from the juice disappeared quicker than it did others.
He remembered how he’d shared a little information about himself, and this made him realize that her angelic side must have affected him. He’d never revealed to anyone he was born with a tail. His inner demon was much stronger, older, and wiser than her inner angel, yet there was an element of trust in her that defied understanding. Also, if he’d been alone when the two lycans were about to rob them, he would have taken all of their essence, ending their lives. Yet somehow he felt certain if he did this, she would be disgusted by his action. So he’d only taken sufficient to render them unconscious. Yes, he would have to be careful she didn’t dampen his devilish nature.
Herres tried to feel more cheerful. He reminded himself how, when he kissed her and drew in a tiny portion of her essence, he knew she would be his. She’d probably fight him all the way, but his strong will would capture Delia and he’d make her ignore his demon face.
* * * *
In the morning, Delia finished reading the book while drinking two cups of coffee. It stated how vampyres were full of lust, and had no knowledge of real love. Also, when they were finished with those they didn’t kill, vampyres could remove all memory of the essence taking and acts of intimacy from the minds of their victims. A fact that kept many from reporting what had happened to them.
The last chapter was paragraph after paragraph of warnings about vampyres. They thoroughly enjoyed turning humans into vampires and their greatest prize was to corrupt those like her. This they did by making them participate in all kinds of fiendish sexual acts, to which their victims soon became addicted. The demon within a vampyre delighted in enslaving the inner angel. Unlike angels, being part human made them vulnerable to the charismatic nature of the vampyre.
Callie came into the kitchen, and asked, “What are you reading?”
“It’s a book about vampyres. Mr. Branly leant it to me.”
“He did? I thought he was too mean to do anything like that.”
“I take back what I’ve told you about him. He’s much nicer than I thought.”
“So why do you want to read about vampyres? Ooh, are you getting interested in the one who rescued you?”
“No, but he was outside when I got home last night and he insisted I have a drink with him.”
“He must like you. Let’s hope he wants you, not your life-force essence. Tell me all about your date. Is he handsome?”
“It wasn’t a date and he has a face like a demon, except his nose is normal. He’s got those weird eyes, thin lips, and pointed ears. He said if I wouldn’t go with him, he’d make me and I didn’t want him to do that.”
“His face must have been a real turn off. The few vampyres I’ve seen at the club are handsome devils with hunky bodies. So where did he wine and dine you?”
“He took me to a creepy looking place with dim lights and no music. It’s opposite one of the restaurants we’ve eaten at on our days off. I had to drink grespat juice while he had beer.”
Callie pulled a face. “Beer is horrible and so is that juice. If you go out with him again, insist he brings you to the club. As you know, we serve delicious food and a variety of drinks. Where was the bar? Maybe I know it.”
“It’s on Pertlan Avenue and is small and dingy. I think its name is Lori’s and I’m sure you wouldn’t go in there, it didn’t feel safe.”
“I know the place, but only because one of the club’s waitresses also works there. She’s a demgel and is at Kobard’s a couple of nights a week.”
Delia nodded. “I think she’s the demgel who served us. She seemed to know the vampyre, so I presume he must drink there quite often.”
“Her name is Marla and she’ll be working with me tonight. I’ll ask her about him. What’s his name?”
“He didn’t tell me, but she called him…” Delia thought for a moment. “I believe it was Herres or something like that.”
“I’ll ask her and tell you tomorrow what she said. Now, have you learned anything from the book?”
“It’s full of warnings about vampyres and says they really love corrupting people. I’m taking that onboard, but I think the author is a bit paranoid. He hasn’t written anything remotely kind about them.”
Callie smiled. “That’s your angel talking. Most species don’t do kind very often. I’m sure if he’d written about lycans there would be plenty of warnings, but we’re okay as long as we don’t get angry. Then we shift.” She made clawing signs in the air with her hands.
“And you shift when you make love.”
“Well, of course, that’s the best part of being a shifter. Anyway, did the vampyre kiss you or let his hands wander?”
“When we came back to the front steps, he kissed me.”
“Was it passionate or just friendly?”
“It was forceful and he also stole a tiny bit of my life-force essence. It actually felt quite sexy and he said he’ll come back when he wants more. Now, I’m back to feeling wary of him and I hope he finds someone else to pursue.”
“He stole some of your life-force essence? I think you should be careful around him. I don’t want you being turned into a vampire.” She made the sign of a cross with her fingers close to Delia’s face.
“According to the book, that can only happen to humans, so you won’t need to stake me.”
Callie moved to the kitchen door. “I’d love to stay and chat, but if I don’t get some sleep I’ll be too tired to work tonight. See you in the morning.” She left and Delia got ready to go to the bookstore.
As soon as she was outside, a tall figure descended upon her. So he wasn’t affected by sunlight, like vampires. The coat collar was up, making only his eyes visible. He asked,
“Are you going to work?”
“Yes.”
“The
n I’ll walk with you.”
Delia would prefer he didn’t, but knew it would be a waste of time saying that. Instead, she queried, “Why do you wear your collar turned up most of the time? Are you cold?”
Herres looked down at her and pulled open his collar so that she could see him move his ungenerous mouth into a smile. “No, I’m considered a very hot individual. I choose to hide much of my face from my prey so that I can grab their attention with my eyes. Once they look at them, they are mine, as you are now, Delia.”
Was that a joke or the truth? Well, she would try to take the upper hand. “Oh, I thought you didn’t want folk to see your face because you believe you’re ugly.”
“Do you think I’m ugly?” He adjusted his collar to its former position.
“You look similar to a demon, but you’re much too tall. I presume others think you are odd.”
Herres repeated, “Do you think I’m ugly?”
She hadn’t managed to sidestep his question, but would try one more time. “I think you look different from other vampyres.”
“I do. Have you seen many, or given your essence to any of them?”
“I’m making that judgment on what my roommate said about vampyres. They sometimes go into the club where she works. You’re the only one who stole my essence, and I won’t let you do it again.”
“You couldn’t stop me, but when it happens I believe you will give it to me willingly. Now, stop avoiding my question. Do you think I’m ugly?”
Did she think he was? Delia had given little thought to his unusual face. With honesty she replied, “I haven’t really thought about it. I wouldn’t say you’re ugly, but your lips are thinner than most and your eyes are scary. They glow in the dark and are very compelling, but not in a nice way.”
“Thank you. I believe that was a truthful answer. My eyes are my best asset. When humans look at them, they become vulnerable to my will.”
By now, they were on the narrow walkway. Did he plan to stay with her right to the bookstore’s front entrance? Would he attempt to follow her inside the store?
She advised, “The bookstore doesn’t open until nine chimes, so there’s no point in going all the way there with me.”
“There’s a very good point. I’m spending time with you.”
Delia decided not to say anything, and they walked to the bookstore’s front door in silence. When they reached it, she tapped her hand against the glass and waited.
Herres expressed, “I’m certain your employer will let you inside very soon, so I’ll take my leave of you. Maybe this afternoon—”
She interrupted, “You definitely talk funny. Is that because you’re very old?”
“Were you never taught it is bad manners to interrupt? I’ll have to think of a way to punish you. Perhaps I’ll make you have sex with me.” He stroked her cheek and continued, “I may come back this afternoon and buy some books. That should please your employer.”
Delia brushed his hand away from her face and stepped back from him. Herres inclined his head, turned around and strode along the walkway. After she tapped a second time, Mr. Branly appeared and unlocked the door. She went inside, trying not to think about the possibility of the vampyre coming back.
Chapter Four
He didn’t return until the middle of the afternoon. Delia was in the back room while making fresh coffee for Mr. Branly. When she came out with a mug in hand, the vampyre stood on the other side of the counter, speaking to her employer. They chatted about books and Mr. Branly appeared enthusiastic, while he named titles and agreed with everything Herres said. She gave her employer the mug of coffee and looked at the vampyre. His full attention was on the bookstore’s owner; he didn’t even glance at her. Delia wondered how he’d managed to get her employer to talk to him. What Mr. Branly said yesterday made her feel sure he disliked vampyres; yet today he was engrossed in conversation with one. Had Herres used some vampyre ploy to capture his respect, or was it the love of books that made her employer ignore his former dislike?
A woman approached the counter, ready to buy the book she held. Delia processed her cash disc, put the book in a small bag and gave it to the woman. She smiled and went outside. Delia gave her attention back to her employer and his customer. Each time the vampyre spoke, Mr. Branly sipped his coffee and Delia stood listening to them. Herres seemed well-informed, although she could be mistaken because they discussed books with which she was unfamiliar.
Eventually, Mr. Branly finished his coffee and took the vampyre to one of the bookcases. He selected a book and gave it to Herres who flipped through the pages and then tucked it under his arm. They began moving from one bookcase to another, choosing certain books. Delia served a second customer, while feeling slightly annoyed that the vampyre ignored her. Yet wasn’t that what she wanted? Did she need to remind herself how dangerous a vampyre could be?
When they returned to the counter, her employer held several books. The vampyre gave him his cash disc and continued to ignore her. Once the gold-colored disc was processed, Mr. Branly questioned, “Can you manage to carry these books? I only have small bags.”
Without hesitation, Herres replied, “I have an idea. Why don’t you let your assistant bring them to my home? I’ll send my driver to pick her up at closing time.”
“We normally close at six chimes, but we are working late this week to do stocktaking. However, I can let her go earlier if that’s fine with you?”
Delia jumped straight in and said, “We haven’t finished yet, so I don’t think I should leave early.” Then, looking at Herres, she asked, “Couldn’t your driver come by and we’ll give him the books?”
Finally, the vampyre looked at her. His lips curled into an amused grin. “I believe it would be polite to do what I and your employer have suggested.” He turned his attention back to Mr. Branly. “At what time would it be convenient for you to release her?”
“Eight chimes will be fine. Many thanks for your purchases, and do come back another day.” He walked with the vampyre to the door, saying there might be more books in which Herres could be interested. When the vampyre stood in the open doorway, he turned back and addressed Delia by saying, “I shall see you tonight, bookstore assistant.” He patted Mr. Branly on the shoulder and was gone.
Her employer walked back to the counter, and stated, “That was a surprise. He bought seven books and they were all expensive. I do hope he comes back, and remember to be polite when you drop off his books. He strikes me as someone who appreciates good manners.”
In disbelief, Delia asked, “Did you forget he’s a vampyre? I thought you didn’t like or trust his kind.”
“Well, I haven’t known any; I’ve only read about them. He’s very knowledgeable about rare books and didn’t seem threatening. Maybe he’s the exception, but I liked him.”
“Can we give his books to the driver? It might not be safe for me to go to his home.”
“I’m sure you’ll be fine.”
Delia wished she could refuse to go, but didn’t want to be fired, so she decided not to argue. Somehow the vampyre had won Mr. Branly over. Once again, she would have to do what Herres wanted, and trust he wouldn’t harm her.
At precisely eight chimes, a large dark-blue sedan drew up outside the bookstore. Delia put on her coat, hooked her arm through the handle of her bag, and piled the seven books together. She managed to carry them when Mr. Branly opened the front door for her. Outside was a mature man who had an air of distinction about him. He took the books and balanced them against his chest, while somehow being able to open the sedan’s door with his other hand. She got inside and he placed the books in two piles beside her. Within seconds the driver started the engine and they glided down the narrow walkway.
Delia looked out of the sedan’s windows and watched humans, shifters, and demons bustling about. The vehicle traveled along busy avenues and eventually was surrounded by less urban scenery. She realized they must be heading for the outskirts of the city. Large, detached ho
uses passed by and she was sure they were in a very rich neighborhood. She’d noticed the vampyre’s expensive clothes and footwear, so she wouldn’t be surprised to learn that he lived in this area.
The sedan turned onto a long driveway that was surrounded by trees and floral bushes. They were gliding up to an old, but well-preserved mansion. It wasn’t overly large, yet seemed bright and inviting. She instantly liked it. A middle-aged woman stood between the two pillars that complemented the wide front entrance. She wore a plain gray dress and looked like a no-nonsense person.
When the vehicle stopped, the driver stepped out of the sedan, opened the door next to Delia, and waited for her to get out. Once she did, he informed, “Mrs. Perty will take you to the master.”
She followed the woman into a long, wide hall that boasted a beautiful tiled floor and a huge staircase at its far end. A number of ornate doors were visible on either side, and an enormous crystal chandelier dominated the high ceiling. Mrs. Perty opened one of the doors and indicated that Delia should enter the room. She did this, and the driver walked in behind her, carrying the books. He set them down on an oak table that was off to one side, and then he went out of the room, closing the door behind him.
No one appeared to be in the room, so Delia took the opportunity to look around. There was a blazing fire in the hearth of a huge fireplace, and a rich, dark-red carpet covered the floor. Heavy drawn drapes hid what must be several windows, and the ceiling was crisscrossed with old beams. Two of the walls had floor-to-ceiling bookshelves that were filled untidily with books. The other two walls were paneled with what looked like mahogany. This room had a definite masculine ambiance and Delia imagined the vampyre spending time in it. Her inner angel could almost sense his presence.
There was what appeared to be an old, oak desk with a modern-style swivel chair in a corner of this room, and close by the fire was a leather armchair that faced away from her. The fire looked inviting, so she decided to sit down in the chair and wait for the vampyre. Once he came into the room, she’d make some excuse to leave before he had a chance to do anything—like insist she give him more of her life-force essence.
Vampyre Rescuer Page 3
