Chapter 1


“What’s the point?” I ask perhaps for the tenth time as my aunt launched into another lecture about family duty, responsibility and birthright. Let me explain a few things me and my brother were both raised by my aunt Kathleen Drake after the death of our parents. We have been in Kath’s care for the last 15 years and I love her dearly but she’s over protective, overbearing and bloody bossy.
The other thing you should know and perhaps the most important is that my aunt is a vampire and actually not my aunt but she is related by blood many generations ago. Kath is approximately 900 years of age. Kath over the years has continued to watch over her human family and took us in when we needed it. I am eternally grateful even thought she completely annoys me .There are a few things you need to know regarding vampire and the myths that are attached to them. The first is regarding the sun it doesn’t turn to them to dust, they are able to out in the day the thing is the sun it annoying and irritates them but that’s all. Crosses, garlic, silver all fake. What is true is burning, beheading stake through the heart but let’s face it, that would kill any one so why not vampires. Coffins are a matter of choice and so are the typical cape and dark clothing. The one thing that all people get right is the need for blood I know my aunt does it but I don’t see, ask or talk about it so as far as I’m concerned ignorance is bliss.
My aunt was just lecturing me yet again about not taking up my magical obligations. My parents were bother very powerful mages and when I was younger I was tested and decreed that I was worthy of joining the mage council and that I would eventually sit in one of my parents seats if I was willing to undergo the training needed. I’m telekinetic which is being able to move objects with my mind, I can manipulate matter for example I can make things expand and explode. I can potentially do much more, but if I’m honest I don’t know the full extent of my power. The council said I was a very gifted and potentially a very powerful mage the problem is I just want to be normal. My Parents died on a mission for the council and I don’t want to risk lose my life like they had. I want a normal life I wanted a family, children and a loving husband, all I want to be is Sarah Drake school teacher and that is what my aunt was lecturing me about again.
“I give up Sarah, but mark my words this will come back and bite you on your conservatively dressed backside. Kath spat out stamping out from the room slamming the door on the way out making the room shake well that’s vampire strength for you.
Part of the problem for me is I’ve gotten older but my aunt is suspended in time and doesn’t age. We look physically the same age, and we are known in public as sisters. We bother medium height, Kath is physically in shape and has abs to die for as I’m a little more of a softer and curvier figure. We share the same bright green eyes and reddish brown hair as Kath’s is straight mine tends to curl and is hard to control. I find it hard and sometimes funny that I am receiving a lecture from a women my age when I would expect it off my mom or even grand parents who may I add are also no longer with us, I just can not help it and take her seriously and it drives Kath mad.
In my everyday life we live in London and I’m a primary school teacher at local school and I mostly love my job. We live in a very private and exclusive area and are pretty much individually contained home. Kath has over the century amassed a great deal of money and can afford the privacy that her life style needs and what I needed as a child especially when I kept blowing up the furniture when my powers were developing.
My aunt had left now as I was just finishing my coffee before I left for work and my mind drifted to the third member of our family. Alex was my older brother who would now be 29 years of age and 6 years my elder. I hero worshipped him, I used to follow him round everywhere and I love him dearly even now when I haven’t seen him for the last 5 years, he had the life I wanted he was human and he was normal no magical abilities of any kind. Alex would ask why he was different from Kath and me when we were younger but it never appeared to be an issue. Then he left me and the worst thing is that I don’t even a why. Kath and Alex had a huge row that I walked in and caught the tail end of. Kath’s fangs were exposed Alex was furious I walked into the kitchen breaking the standoff that was occurring in the kitchen when both turned and looked at me Kath backed down but Alex remained still eyes glued to Kath. He swung around didn’t say a word and stormed out, I went to ask Kath but before a word had left my lips Kath stormed out the same way as Alex following him for all I knew. I do know that just before Alex left they had been arguing a lot and would stop in mid sentence whenever I interrupted them, pretending that everything was fine when it clearly was not. They would even try to get on when I was there. For the last 5 years now I haven’t seen or heard from him, and if I’m honest I was to frightened to ask about it Kath’s the only family I have left and don’t want to alienate her.
I placed my coffee cup in the sink and grabbed my car keys I walked through the front door and my stomach tightened and a feeling of dread washed over me, shaking it off I left to go to work.
Twenty minutes later I pulled up at St Marks Primary School ready to start work. I made my way to the staff room to have my second cup of coffee of the morning before I have to face my class when Adam walked in after me. Adam is my long term on, off boyfriend of the last 4 years. His perfect, romantic, thoughtful, sweet, safe, reliable, everything a girl could want but his also boring, predictable and just plain safe, he doesn’t make my heart beat, and the most important thing is I don’t love him the way I should. I care but I don’t think that’s enough or what he deserves. He is tall blonde, blue eyes, model material like I said perfect.
“Hi love.” he said followed by brief kiss on my cheek as he went passed to grab a cup of coffee.
“Adam hi.” I reply.
“We still on for tonight?” he asks as he heads back to the door to head toward his class.
“Yes 7.30 this evening at the Royal Oak.”
Smiling he heads out leaving me with a fake smile and not much else. I then head toward the door and my own class.
3.15pm could not have come quick enough. My day had been horrible, the children had just been so restless and I felt like I couldn’t get them to concentrate on anything. One of the boys had cut the whole pigtail off 2 of the girls and he did that whilst I washing the hand and face of two of the other kids that had painted each other blue. So when school finished I had 5 sets of unhappy parents to deal with. The last mother left telling her little boy off for the scissors incident all the way out of the class room and down the corridor towards the exit and only then I couldn’t hear her as there was two sets of doors between us. I collapsed into the chair a sigh of relief escaping my lips as Adam walked in.
“Rough day?” he asked as he sat on the edge of my desk.
“Yep.” I reply giving him a tired smile “listen Adam I.”
“I’ll meet you there tonight love at least we don’t have to worry who dropping who off afterwards do we.” he says interrupting me.
“Adam I don’t really feel up to it tonight.” I say.
Adam smiles and leaves “we always go you’ll be ok later see you then love.”
I sighed again putting my head on the desk. Adam and I always go to the Royal Oak on Friday night wind rain or shine and every time I even mention a change or not going he just pretend he has not heard me. Like I said he likes routine but I’m to nice to make it an issue so I just go along with him.
I turn the lights off, stop off at the staff room and collect my things and head towards the car park. I get my keys and open the driver’s side of my little black mini cooper when again I felt an odd feeling down the back of my neck and it weren’t a good feeling. I lifted my head up and slowly looked round me. Out of the school gates there was a thin very attractive women stood next to a silver bmw. Blonde and wearing a pair of designer sun glasses just stood there looking at me. I stared back; the women nodded her head in acknowledgment got in the car that immediately drove off letting me know there had to have been a driver with her. I stood there thinking how odd that was especially considering I didn’t even know her; I gave a little shrug deciding to mention it to Aunt Kath when I got home. I got in my car and headed home.
I got home let myself in and went straight to the kitchen where I was left a note saying “out back later.” Typical the one time I want her and you’re out. Putting the odd meeting to the back of my mind I went to my room intending to lay down for a short rest on top of the bed.
My room is very simply decorated and a little boring its all creams and browns walls, book shelves filled with books along the left wall, a desk and computer on the right and a door way to my en suite bathroomshower room and a huge king size bed dominating the room. I love this room it’s so peaceful and very me. That was my last thought as sleep over took me. 2 hours later I woke and looked across at my alarm clock.


Chapter 2

I looked at my alarm clocked as I awoke refreshed from my nap, 6.30pm I threw myself out the bed I’ve got a hour to get washed, dressed and be there for 7.30. If I’m late Adam tends to sulk as lateness is another pet hate of his. I strip out of my clothes and jump into the shower and wash quickly. I dry my hair dress in a conservative red top and cardigan and black trousers tie my hair in a knot and clip it up apply minimal make up and head on out. The Royal Oak pub is only a 10 minute drives away but in that ten minutes I made up my mind that I was going to have the talk with him. I’m not happy and have not been for a while.
I arrived just on time to the realisation that Adams car is not on the car park and I have either got to go in on my own and his going to sulk about not waiting for him or sit out here and wait in a dark deserted car park, and to be honest neither option was appealing to me. I decided the latter as if I was going to dump him putting him a bad mood is probably not the best course of action. I turned the radio on and relaxed and got settled to wait.
A few moments later I heard a soft rap on my window I turned and looked and there was a small petite blonde women looking in at me asking me a question I couldn’t hear her with the radio on. I turned it down quickly checked my phone for messages off Adam and there was not one. I Turned faced my visitor and started to whined the window down, when I looked at her again it was the women from out side the school. As I realised I had recognised her she grabbed hold of my car door and wrenched it off throwing it behind her. Typical I thought bloody vampire then panic started to take hold. I dived out of the car and at her legs; this only really made her stumble. I tried to get to my feet my attacker had got me the back of my neck and had pulled me up and pinned me up against the wall. Unable to move I looked at my attacker whose eyes had got a dull red glow that I’ve seen in Kath eyes when she gets violent or hungry. I hoped that she was hungry I was probably going to survive that. She bared her fangs at me making my heart rate jump even higher. I don’t know what happened but bloody hell.
I felt like my whole body began to tingle, and a pressure began to build in my body, I then let out a scream that I could not contain. The look on my captures face was priceless she hadn’t got a clue what I was screaming about, my hand swung forward and pushed against my attacker she then was flung backwards into my car where she remained motionless. I had slumped to the floor to my hands and knees, shaken by the attack and a sudden feeling of exhaustion that washed over me, how I had managed to throw the vampire across the car park. I know I’m capable of moving things but I’d never moved a person that far or hard before not even when I was a child and I’m pretty sure I hadn’t just used my gifts knowing. My next thought was my phone in the car how am I going to get out of here and get home. Then the headache hit, sharp stabbing pains at my temples and behind my eyes, I stood bracing myself up against the wall and trying to keep an eye on the vampire.
A couple with their arms wrapped around one another came out of the pub as a taxi pulled up, I dashed over and when the driver opened the door I flung myself in the back. The couple began to shout as I pulled the door out of the drivers hand and slammed it shut; the poor driver was at a loss and just jumped back in the driving seat. The angry couple who’s taxi I had pinched was still complaining at me through the window.
“Where to lass?” he asked. I mumbled the address as I held my hand in my head fighting to stay awake, and the bumps in the road was causing additional pain in my head every time the driver hit one. The journey seamed like it took forever when it was perhaps 10 minutes in reality. The taxi pulled up at the house when I lifted my head up the driver had come round and opened the door offering his hand to help me out.
“Money is in the house.” I said taking his hand and stepping out the taxi. As my feet touched solid ground my knees buckled and the driver was the only thing that was keeping me from falling to the ground.
“Come lass lets get you home.” he said supporting me as we got to the front door. I glanced up and there was lights on which told me that Kath was home. The driver hammered on the door and the door opened immediately. Kath took one look at me held up by a stranger and made a grab for me pulling me behind her and stood facing off towards the driver.
“Taxi driver helped me home.” I whispered knowing full well being a vampire she could hear me. Straight away Kath relaxed and paid the driver who ran down the drive and drove away without even shutting the door of the taxi. Poor man I thought as she carried me through to the lounge and gently setting me down on the sofa.
“well.” was all that Kath said.
“Paracetamol please.” was my reply I closed my eyes and heard her go to the kitchen and then return. I opened my eyes again and Kath was above me with 2 tablets and a glass of water, she handed them over silently and allowed me time to take them before she asked me again. I handed the glass back to her and explained everything that had happened including Adam’s no show.
“He left a message his care broke down and he will see you the usual time Sunday.” she informed me.
“Oh.”
“I don’t know why you put up with him, his just to, to nice he creeps me out. Its not normal.” she continued.
I had not got the strength to explain I was on the way to finish with him, I was more interested about what I’d done and how rather than my break up with Adam.
“What happened?” I asked and sat up.
“Well a vamp tried to kill you.”
“I get that aunt.” I said sighing as I said it. “I mean what did I do?”
Kath took a seat opposite me and looked me directly in the eye making sure she had my attention.
“Something that I have been waiting to happen for a while now. You used your magical abilities and now you have two options. Firstly you get trained.” I started to protest until she held a finger up stopping me so she could finish. “Secondly if you don’t you may go insane, or it may kill you.”
I was speechless I sat there mute no words escaped my lips. I put my head back in my hands. I felt Kath leave the room and return a few moments later. I had not moved position or had a single intelligent thought in my head and my headache was not getting any better in fact it was worsening.
“Sarah I know its not want you wanted but things have come to a point now that you don’t have to make a choice its been made for you.” tears silently travelled down my eyes.
“I didn’t want this.”
“I know but you don’t have a choice any more. I presume you don’t want to die or go insane.” she stated.
“No” I agreed.
“I have rang a friend of sorts, and he’ll help, train you so you at least won’t burn out. He will be along soon do you wish to sleep for a time?” she asked me.
“I don’t think I could even if I tried.”
“I can assist with that Sarah.” she smiled took my hands and whispered to me telling me to sleep whilst she maintained eye contact with me. My eyes started to closer, all of a sudden I became tired as my energy levels dropped as sleep took over, but not before I heard my aunt “ I’m so sorry Sarah its time.” blackness overcame me and I remembered no more.


Chapter 3


I must have been asleep a while, and I had been moved to my bedroom and dressed in my night clothes. My body was aching but at lest my head was only throbbing now. I took another two tablets that Kath had left for me along with a glass of water on my bedside table. I set the glass down I could hear voices coming from down stairs. I checked my self to make sure I was decent it was only 1.30am and I was not going to get redressed for anyone, as soon as I found out what was going on I was going straight back to bed anyway. I had an old pair of jogging bottoms on and a vest top, and thankfully a bra I tied my hair up and made my way down stairs. As soon as my foot touched the top step the voices I could hear stopped which told me one thing for certain that they had heard me and that they were bloody vampires down stairs other than my aunt. Closing my mouth tight to stop myself voicing my thought as they would have heard it and that’s not the best first impression to make on people that were potentially going to help me. Not only that Kath would kill me not literally but would make me wish she had.
I entered the kitchen grabbed a coffee out of the pot, took a deep breath and entered the lounge where I was greeted by my aunt who had her back to me and was placed between me and the two strange men. One was stood as if on guard by the other door used to enter the room. He was huge, long blonde hair, tanned and power radiated from him that even I could feel it.
The second visitor was stood directly in front of my aunt, my attention moved to him, and I thought my heart was going to stop. What stood there was the most handsome man I have ever seen in my life. He was as tall as his friend, dark hair, dark brown eyes, and a light dusting of his dark hair around his jaw. He wore a tailored designer suit, his whole being just spoke wealth and power, and my body had just gone into a deep awareness of this man no sorry vampire. As I studied him he did the same to me, his eyes met mine and I knew I was in trouble. Sensing my thought he raised his eyebrow as if daring me to say something.
Kath turned to look at me; as soon as she saw me in my night clothes I could feel the disapproval. Radiating off her, but lets face it it’s happened before. To my aunts credit she never passed a comment and moved aside so I could join them and sit. I took the spare seat with the other visitor behind me.
“Sarah may I introduce you to Mr Joshua Parmer.” she said formally. He nodded his head in acknowledgment.
“Ms Drake.” he added.
“Joshua has agreed to be your mentor for now, he has also arranged for Raul behind you to be your body guard until we know what’s going on.” she told me.
I remained silent looking between the three others in the room. Again Mr Parmer raised his brow in either question or challenge.
“What is the cost for his generosity?” I asked.
“Sarah!” my aunt bellowed.
“His a vampire.” I replied to her shout.
“What do you think I am?” she answered.
“Family.” I told her.
Mr Parmer cleared his throat to get our attention calling a stop to the imminent argument.
“If I may” he then turned his whole attention on me “Sarah if I may. I am 1567 years of age and before I was reborn I was a mage of great power, and still am even though my vampire lifestyle now takes priority. I will teach you enough to allow you to gain at least a child’s level of control.” he stood and walked and knelt in front of where I was sitting.” I don’t play games and I am a busy man, I choose to do this at great cost to my self, and respect for Kathleen. There will be a price Sarah and you will pay it when you have anything of worth that I want.” he moved away to resume his seat. His words chilled me to the bone.
“You must do this Sarah.” Kath added.
My whole being said to refuse but I couldn’t, if I refused I was going to die one way or another or lose my mind.
“Okay Joshua, when do you wish to begin?” I asked using his given name purposely.
“Tomorrow, when I arrive. Raul will commence his duty tomorrow as Kathleen ensures me she will remain with you the remainder of the night. He did a half smile saying he had caught on what I had done using his given name, my way of letting him know I wasn’t going to completely surrender, and I had a gut feeling that he liked it that way.
“Till tomorrow.” with that Joshua stood and left taking muscles with him. I relaxed into the chair thankful that they had gone.
“What an “I began only to be cut off by Kath.
“His a very powerful man Sarah, and his not to be fooled with. His agreed to help us and we couldn’t have asked for better help”
“Who is he?” I asked.
“His coven master of London, all vampires in this area are answerable to him, including me Sarah,” she explained.
“I’ll try, but I’m not promising, but I’ll try aunt you know what I’m like though when I open my mouth it just all comes pouring out.” smiling as I replied to her plea.
“I wouldn’t have it any other way love, go to bed and I’ll keep watch. We need to keep you off work till this is sorted.” she said.
Nodding my consent I picked my self up and took my self off to bed. As I climbed in the house phone rang I reached over and answered it with a tired hello, whilst looking at the time 02.23am.
“Hi love” I recognising his voice instantly. “Just ringing to say sorry about tonight and that I’ve just got home”
“Couldn’t this have waited till morning?” I snapped.
“Don’t be silly I knew you’d be worried.” which if I’m honest was the last thing I was thinking about “and after all I’m the one who had a stressful night” he added.
I felt myself getting angry and had to get him off the phone before I said anything I’d really regret. In my best pathetic whiney voice I said “honey I’m not feeling well I’ll call you tomorrow, the stress of missing our date has me all out of sorts.”
“Of course it has sweet heart off to bed with you now.” he had not finished but uncaring I replaced the receiver and unplugged the phone from the wall. I settled down to sleep. Sleep came quickly but all I dreamt about was about a tall, dark powerful vampire,
I woke the following day at my usual time, coming down to the kitchen and suddenly remembering I was off work for the foreseeable future, three things came to me as I reached for the coffee, first I need to ring work and get cover, secondly I got to call things off with Adam today, and thirdly I could have had a bloody lie in. Groaning I reached for the phone as Kath walked into the kitchen looking perfect as usual, unlike me with my hair sticking out everywhere and huge puffy eyes to match.
“Who you calling?” she asked.
“Work, being that I’m banned from going” I replied.
“I took care of it, your down with swine flu”
“That excuse is only going to last for so long” I moaned. I took a drink of coffee pulling a face as I had forgotten to add sugar.
“Things should be sorted by then love, but you may never be able to go back” I started to protest but she raised her hand to stop me before I began “I warned you time and time again. You turned your back on your heritage, denied your magic and it’s come to bite you on the ass, you’re unprepared and your life is at risk”
I sighed knowing she was telling the truth and yet I still didn’t want to believe it I kept my mouth firmly shut.
“Not only that Sarah another vampire has attacked you and I don’t know why, it maybe someone after me or it could be wrong place wrong time “she mused.
“I don’t think so Aunt” I answered and filling her in about seeing her at my work place yesterday morning. To my surprise she remained silent and when I did press her she relied that she was at a loss to explain it,
“When this Joshua coming to give me his wisdom?” I asked.
“Considering our family you are really a boring and sensible women but Sarah you need to watch your mouth, I put up with it because I love you. He will not tolerate it and its my neck as well as yours on the chopping block please be careful, listen , do what he asks of you it will keep you alive.” with that Kath left the room shouting 5pm at me.
I heard Kath’s go upstairs, I was left musing in the kitchen, fearful about my upcoming lessons and excited Joshua Palmer was a good looking man, not only that I’d had some very interesting dreams about tall, dark and sexy vampire.
I had a day to kill, I washed and dressed, cleaned the house, twice. I read for a bit I love romance novels and I had started another about a office tycoon and a secretary and it didn’t help I kept casting myself and Joshua in the leading roles, with a huff I threw the book on the table and put my head back and closed my eyes.
“Ms Drake.” I heard, I opened my right eye and looked at who had called my name and none other than Joshua and muscles from yesterday stood in front of me looking down at my relaxed position. I looked at the clock and it was exactly 5pm. I gave them a half smile and said “I must have nodded off; I was having a very nice thoughts about you.”
Joshua to his credit didn’t say anything but did raise his eyebrow at what I had said, muscles was openly smiling. At that my brain engaged and I realised that I had voiced my thoughts, my face began to flush as I then tried to stammer out an apology He waved his hand in a dismissal and took a seat opposite.
“Now Ms Drake.” he began until I interrupted him.
“Sarah, please,”
“Sarah” he said sending a shiver down my spine as he said my name. He must have sensed it as he frowned at my reaction. “As I understand it your telekinetic, and can manipulate matter” he said going straight down to business.
At that I interpreted him again “I can blow things up if that what you mean by manipulating matter.” He nodded in agreement before he continued.
“From what I understand they were unable to fully investigate your potential and were unable to determine the full extent of what your capabilities.”
“That’s correct.” I replied causing him to raise his eyebrow at my sudden relative normal answer. “I could move small objects, I blew up my toys a few times when I was upset, I didn’t want to learn and Kath sided against the council for me.” I said.
“What she did out of love was risk your life and delayed your development which has resulted in your magic activating to its full potential anyway regardless of your wishes”.
I remained silent and waited for him to continue. He stood as the silent stretched out between us.
“I have commitment that I was unable to delay I will return after midnight whilst I’m here you will alter your sleep schedule to fit into mine. Raul is here to watch you, and accompany you. He is here for your protection.” with that he left leaving muscles regarding me with a half smile.
“What?” I asked as he looked at me.
“I have a feeling we are all going to be having a very interesting time with you Sarah,” he stated.
“Good way or bad way?”
“Oh I defiantly think it’s going to be both.” he answered. Smiling I signalled him towards the kitchen. “Drink, help you’re self” I said “got to make a call.”
“To whom?” he asked and the laughter left his face.
“My boyfriend.” I removed the phone from its cradle and dialled Adams number; I didn’t bother leaving the room as I thought that muscles would follow me anyway. On the fifth ring Adam answered.
“Hello”
“Hi Adam its Sarah” I reply.
“Hi love how are you feeling?” he asked but before I even had time to answer “that swine flu is really contagious isn’t it I think it best that you get well before we meet up again”
“I really need to speak to you “I said whilst rolling my eyes, muscles was drinking a can of cola that he had gotten out of the fridge.
“And we will “he continued still not letting me get a word in edge ways “but when your well, love you” at that Adam rang off. I set the phone down and turned to my bodyguard.
“Up for a road trip?” I ask.
“Where to”
“To dump my boyfriend” I inform him.
Raul burst into a roar of laughter “I told you this was going to be fun, and I always like to break things”
“I doubt we will be breaking anything other than his ego” I reply shortly. “Come on lets get this over with, I need get back for my training session with your boss”
Still smiling Raul led the way to a black Mercedes that had been parked in the drive way, he walked to the passenger side and held the door for me pushing it shut once I was settled. He walked around to the drivers side got in and started the engine.
“Where to?” he asked. I gave him the address whish was about a ten minute drive away, the trip was rather enjoyable 80s music was playing softly through the radio and Raul never bothered me with small talk we drove in silence and it gave me the chance to think about what I was going to say to my nearly dumped boyfriend.
We pulled up to Adams block of flats. Raul had turned off the engine, he jumped out of the drivers side and came round to my side and opened the door for me. I commented about him be a gentleman which he smiled at but offered no comment, I took a breath then fished around in my handbag for the key. Adam gave me the key on our second anniversary but I had never used it as we always meet in public and then went back to mine. Adam was on the second floor and Raul and I walked up the stair case got to his front door I put the key in the lock and turned the key Raul pushed past me and did I quick look around the entrance hall to Adam’s flat before allowing me to enter. Adams place was very minimalist white walls, silver and glass furniture and a flat screen TV, I mean it had as much personality as him which lets face it amounted to none. I stood in the door way and took a breath ready to call Adams name when I heard strange groaning noises coming from the bedroom. I looked at Raul who in turn looked at me, by silent agreement we approached the bed room, out of what appeared like thin air Raul pulled a huge sword from his back. My eyes widened and I mouthed “bloody hell” at him, holding his sword ready and flashing me a small half smile and a small shrug of his shoulder, raul pushed the bedroom door open.
I really don’t know how to explain to you what we saw, but basically Adam was lay on his back in the centre of his king-size bed with a redheaded women on his right and a dark headed women on his left. All three were naked and quiet clearly we had interrupted them. I stood in shock unable to move or say anything I mean its not as if I was jealous because I was not its just that it was not what I was expected when I opened that door. Raul stood behind me and coughed load enough to disturb Adam and his two fellow bed partners. Adam had now noticed us as we stood in his bedroom doorway, I must say that the look on his face was comical it went from rapture to puzzlement to horror then shame. His bed mates didn’t appear to look a bit fazed by some strange women and 6ft sword welding muscles man they looked only to happy to continue in the activity. Adam had managed to sit him self up and push his not so classy company off himself.
“Sarah honey I was not expecting you” he stated.
“Clearly”
“I thought you were ill and confined to the house with that swine flu” his voice had started to rise in tone and volume.
“I lied” was all I replied completely emotionless.
“Well would you like to tell me why” he asked. I could see clearly that he was annoyed with me but for what, interrupting his orgy or lying to him.
“I don’t think that’s really the issue Adam do you I mean at the end of the day I’ve come round to visit my boyfriend who I’ve caught fucking to bloody prostitutes for all I know” I screamed the last two words at him I was seriously getting pissed off, and the fact that the two women never reacted to my accusation and Adam never denied it only proved that I was correct in my thinking.
“Who’s he?” I heard Adam ask a note of surprise in his voice, also a little accusingly while looking Raul up and down assessing him.
“His my “I turned to Raul giving him a wink before facing Adam again “my bodyguard who if I ask him very nicely will I’m sure willing beat up a three timing selfish bastard like you”
“Now Sarah” he began as Raul flexed his sword arm making Adam quietens immediately. I liked seeing the fear in his eyes but to be honest at this point all I really wanted to do was go home eat a ton of chocolate and cry. I the thing is I wasn’t upset because I wanted Adam I was upset because I thought he wanted me and I trusted him.
“Just tell me why Adam?” I asked sighing heavily. Adam just looked at me and to be honest I thought he wasn’t going to answer me until,
“Answer her” Raul growled at him.
“you were great but you were boring you just didn’t do it for me, I needed a bit of excitement especially in the bedroom department you just wouldn’t have sex with me and I have needs.” he held his hands open in attempt to get my understanding. I turned my back to him and stepped back through the door way.
“I came today to finish with you thanks for saving me the bother.” with that last comment I left running down the stairs back towards Rauls black Mercedes, with Raul close behind me. I threw myself into the car, slamming the door to the outside world close I quietly sobbed into my hands. Raul sat beside me a remained silent the whole time until I had my self back under control.
“Thanks” I say.
“No problem,” he starts the car and pulls into the traffic “home now” he adds.
We remain silent for the whole of the drive back, once back home we enter the house and I head straight towards the stairs Raul hand touches my shoulder stopping me in my tracks. I turn towards him curiously
“He was cruel and no one deserves that Sarah.” I offer him a small sad smile and take the first two steps before his voice stops me again. “Everything happens for a reason”
“I know” with that I went and lay on my bed “but I just don’t believe it” I whispered to myself.


Chapter 4

I didn’t stay in my room long I’m not one for dwelling on things, so an hour after arriving home I was sat in the kitchen cup of coffee in hand Raul propping up the wall and retelling the whole unpleasant tale of Adams extra curriculum activities to a hysterical with laughter vampire aunt. To be honest to see my aunt doubled up with laughter cheered me up and made me chuckle along side with her, Raul laughed right along with us.
“Sarah that is the funniest thing I’ve heard in the last 150 years, I would never have thought of him as capable of even having sex let alone two at the same time” Kath said followed by another round of laughter.
“I went of there to brake up with him anyway at least this way I have nothing to feel bad about.” I glanced up at the clock only 10 minutes till my magical vampire teacher graces me with his presence.
“He wasn’t right for you love” my aunt stated all laughter gone from her voice. “Supernatural beings like vampires, werewolves, dragons, and mages we mate for life,”
“Hold on your saying what exactly” I asked kath.
“We only ever have one mate and when we find them it’s for life,” she held up her hand stalling my question that she knew was coming next. “We can take lovers, marry don’t forget our life spans are much longer than mortals. But when we meet our other halves then that’s it there no going back. You can fight it and many do for loyalty to others but in the end you only cause pain to everyone including your self”
I sat there in complete shock. I looked at his stone expression on Raul face and I understood that his usual good nature and laugher was not appropriate and this too was reflected in my aunt face as I looked towards her.
“So why weren’t I told” I asked.
“Would you have Listerned, because you’re really good at that” she stated in a hard no nonsense voice.
“No probably not” I conceded. I sighed knowing I was defeated and my aunt could tell as she came round and gave me a brief hug and kissed my forehead before sitting down across the table from me.
“So mates or what ever they are how long do you have to wait and how do you know” I ask.
I waited for kath to answer and was surprised when it was Raul that answered me “there are no limits I am 1250 years of age and I am yet to find my hearts other half.”
I didn’t know what to say about that so I remained silent.
“I have not found my other half yet and I’m about 900 years of age give or take a decade.” kath added as she filled the silence that had settled over us.
“But how do you know,” I asked
“I don’t know some say you do right from the start as soon as you meet them, some say that it only a mild attraction to begin with that grows. Other say that they invade your thoughts and dreams you are unable to lie or keep secrets from them. No one knows until it happens.” my aunt explained. As kath explained this to me my mined drifted off and thoughts of Joshua invaded my thoughts, the dreams from last night, what I said to him on our first meeting, but as quickly as the thought appeared I dismissed it and tuned back in time to hear my aunt saying my name in order to regain my attention.
“Where did you go” she asked frown in place.
“Just thinking so basically I would have finished with Adam anyway whether I wanted to or not” I said looking to Kath and then Raul. Both nodded there answer in agreement.
“Bloody marvellous” I groaned, but before I could say anything else I heard a velvety voice behind me.
“Now we have had the birds and bats talk, may we now focus on what is important” my whole body filled with a mixture of tension, joy and it tingled as my body recognised him, Joshua. Raul bowed muttering something I couldn’t hear and to be honest I don’t think I would have even if he had shouted it as my whole focus was on Joshua. Kath bowed and quickly glanced at me and giving a silent message to basically tell me to behave. I looked away and turned the impact of him hit me again he was one bloody handsome vampire. I had schooled my face and bowed “sir” I added as I straightened. His mouth quirked as if he knew what I had been thinking and let’s face it he probably does.
“Come” was all he said and left expecting me to follow. I looked back at Kath and my bodyguard who looked as if they were in deep conversation. Shrugging I followed Joshua in to the small sitting room located right at the back of the house. It’s a room that kath keeps her dusty old books and things that she had collected over the many, many years of her longed lived life. The room its self was white walls, book case along most of the walls, a desk and chair up the one corner and a comfortable arm chair in the other. A thick patterned rug was the most dominate feature reds, gold’s intricate floral detail. I always liked that rug I remember Alex and I lying on that rug as Kath told us about our parents and our family many generations into our families passed.
Joshua stood in the centre of the room and was facing me “please sit” he said and as I looked towards the arm chair Joshua had sat on the floor shoes off, legs crossed and was looking up at me, I shrugged and followed suit and sat in a identical position opposite him.
Once I was settled Joshua closed his eyes “magic comes from with in you and around you. You have to learn control and concentration.” he said his voice washing over me.
“That is what we will begin with, I want you to shut your eyes, and empty your mind, breath deeply and relax it will help” he added. I rolled my shoulders and wriggled to get comfortable , I closed my eyes and tried to relax, but every time I tried and I thought my mind was blank something would distracted me. It would be Joshua himself or his aftershave or thoughts of what had happened with Adam earlier on. It was even a itch on my foot at that I growled in temper opened my eyes “it’s hard everything is distracting me” I groused,
Joshua remained motionless in front of me. He was oblivious to me or at least it seamed like it, I used this opportunity to really look at him. His dark hair was short enough to be fashionable but still touch his collar it looked thick and silky and my fingers itched to touch it. His jaw was Sharpe and begged to be stroked I raised my hand to do just that but caught myself before I actually did it. I mean what I was doing trying to pet a 1500 year old vampire who just happens to be the coven master. This little wake up call I’d just given myself gave me the kick that I needed. I relaxed again, closed my eyes and attempted to clear my mind.
I don’t know how long I remained like that but I was disturbed by Joshua stroking his hand down the right side of my face just the way I had imagined doing it to him. I felt so peaceful and relaxed. I looked in to his eyes and was lost in their beauty of there golden depths and their intelligence, it was like looking in to his soul his hand still remained against my cheek. The room started to vibrate around us but we were still locked on to one another. The books now where falling on to the floor but still we remained locked, an encyclopaedia fell hitting me on my leg and distracting me enough to break my concentration. As I looked down at the offending book this also released Joshua who using his vampire speed was over the other side of the room and as far from me as he could get but his eyes remained fixed on me. I slowly stood feeling very awkward and unsure of myself. As I straightened my balance had not caught up and I wobbled, Joshua was instantly beside me to steady me. Once I was up he let me go and retreated again.
“What the bloody hell happened?” I asked a tremor clearly could be heard as I spoke.
“Something I was not prepared for” was the reply he gave.
“And that is” I pushed.
“you are clearly powerful, and learn quickly and I was not expecting to you to be so deep within yourself as I tried to wake you, you projected on to me what I had heard you think earlier about what you wanted to do to me and you compelled me to comply” he then began to pace before coming to a halt at the doorway.
“So what you saying” I asked in a whisper,
“I am saying nothing Sarah, I didn’t strengthen my mental defences that is my error not yours, but I will be prepared for next time your powers also manifested physically by the obverse chaos in here.” he headed to the door way and stepped through.
“Wait” I called to him and with that he stopped and turned to face me. “But” I started to say but he stopped me and leaning down so we were face to face I could feel his breath on my face.
“We have an attraction Sarah to one another and I am not going to deny it, however you are young and are not ready for a man like me, I do not believe in the theory of mates and eternity so don’t get any ideas about me. I use, I love while your with me but you are all eventually discarded. When you grow up and want to play by my rules then talk to me about what happened tonight” with that he left leaving me speechless.
I sat back down heavily on the floor; I picked a small paperweight off the floor that must have been knocked on the floor during my lesson with Joshua. I toyed with it rolling it in between the palms of my hand. I placed it down on the floor in front of me and concentrated on it willing it to rise, I lifted my hand to focus my energy and to my amazement it lifted until I giggled at myself causing it to fall back down to the floor. I tried again keeping my emotions and thoughts at bay again the paperweight lifted. I managed to keep it up and slowly willed in to turn, again turning my hand in the direction I wanted my paperweight to turn. I used to do this all the time as a child but that was many years ago.
“What the hell went on in here” I heard Kath demand from behind me. At that my paperweight dropped to the floor straight on to my toe. Kath watched as I reeled out a list obscenity off all aimed at this innocent paperweight. Once I finished swearing I stood up having a good look at the damage.
“I’m not a good student” was all I said “I’ll clean it up” I added.
“Dam right you will” and off she went.
I straightened Kath’s study out to its usual messy standard and found Kath sat in front of the TV watching a show about two brothers travelling across the country killing monsters. I mean its ok but Kath is obsessed and regularly shouts at the show when they get facts wrong I think to be honest that’s the only reason she watches it.
“Where’s Raul?” I ask as I sit next to her.
“Gone with Joshua I should imagine he asked me to stay with you the remainder of the night and Raul will be back to watch you whilst were asleep.”
“I’m sorry for all this”
“its not your fault the local infant vampire want to eat you that’s more to do with me that you, and I should of made you train to use you magic the blame is clearly mine” however Kath admitting it didn’t make me feel any better.
“What can you tell me about Joshua Palmer” I ask.
“Why the interest” she replied. I shrug and wait her out and eventually she starts to talk. I am not going into much detail but here are the high lights. Joshua was a poor mans son who joined the military which back in his days was your only option fighting for king and country. He was mortally wounded on the battle field and was turned no one knows by who or why. He dedicated a large portion of his life to the magical arts but again no knows who trained him or why. About 500 years back he came to London and basically destroyed the ruling coven and made his home here again none knows why. So basically I haven’t learnt anything and no one knows anything. Great!
“What about a partner or wife” I ask. Kath looks at me oddly but answers me.
“There have been rumours about a lost love or him waiting for a love and that it’s been prophesised but you know what this magical council and their mystic’s are like. Load of mumbo jumbo if u as me.” I grunted and pretending to be interested on what was on the TV. It was now around 3am and I my body screamed for sleep but due to Joshua orders to match his vampire time schedule I fought it off and managed till 6am by reading and drinking plenty off coffee. To be honest I didn’t think I would have been able to sleep but once I was comfortable I went straight off. The strange thing was I’d had a traumatic day with cheating ex boyfriend and people trying to kill me and very inappropriate thoughts of a very old master vampire. But all that saw before sleep descending was a very sexy Joshua the pre mentioned master vampire.
To be honest with you nothing really happened over the following weeks, and life pretty much settled down and we all fell into a sort of routine. I now slept 6am till round 10pm. I mainly wandered the house cleaning, reading, and spent a load of Kath’s money internet shopping; to relieve the boredom that had began to set in. Raul was at home most of the time with me now as Kath had her own business to run and couldn’t always stay with me which to be honest was a good thing really, as much as I love my aunt she is at times very annoying.
Raul sense of humour and cheery character help immensely to pass away the time, he always had a silly storey or a joke that made me smile. Also the fact that he had silently supported me when at Adams flat had given him a special place in my heart. I even day dreamed of getting romantically attached to him but after I caught the little glances I saw him throwing Kath’s way I decided it would be a waste of time. Joshua would come each night different times never letting me know when or how long for, which really had started to irritate me. He would go over and over things firing questions at me. Each evening he would get me to perform small telekinetic tricks like what I had done with the paperweight. He also had me expand and destroy foam ball or glass marbles to practice the skill. He also tried me to get me to enforce thoughts on people Kath and Raul usually who picked up my thoughts but I couldn’t compel them to do anything yet. However nothing at all seamed to happen with Joshua but I think that was mainly to due to how careful he was being after our first session together and I don’t think he wanted a repeat performance the fact that he is so cold towards me made me not really want to try. That didn’t stop my physical reaction to him and the fact was every time I saw him I wanted to rip his designer suit off his perfectly toned body.
He puzzled me greatly and I don’t know why he fascinates me and I think I do the same to him. Even though he doesn’t speak unless scolding me or giving lessons. He looks at me with a frown or confusion when he thinks I am not looking and to be honest that’s the only reason I don’t tell him to go to hell and the fact that my aunt would actually kill me for real.
Adam had tried to ring a few times but fortunately I hadn’t answered the phone it had been Kath or Raul, thank god! I don’t think I could cope with his superior attitude either. I had been cooped in this house for six weeks now and I don’t think I could stand one minute more of this it was driving me mad. I had got to get out of here and soon.


Chapter 5


I had gotten up about 9pm or there about Friday evening which was a little early for me and answered the phone putting the phone to my ear I answered in a husky like that use on the sex chat phone calls, anyone who now me this isn’t unusual thing for me to do anyway I answered “hello” I said “Sarah here what may I help you with this evening”
“Sarah” I heard down the line and immediately I recognised Joshua voice on the other end of the line.
“Hello Sir” I reply nearly chocking on my own breath when I had realised who it was on the line.
“What is a most unusual way to answer the phone Sarah especially when you didn’t know whom the caller would be.” he stated.
I grunted and ignored his comment “would you like Raul or my aunt?” I asked pleasantly. The line remained silent for a second before he replied.
“I unable to continue with your lesson tonight I will see you tomorrow” with that the line went dead. Charming I thought to myself as I replaced the receiver to the phone back.
I sat at the table with a second cup of coffee in hand when a plan had began to form, I looked in on Kath and Raul who were planted in front of the TV and would remain there most of the night. I mean you would think that they would find something better to do that sit in front of that all night being that they were both hundreds of years old and bloody vampires. Twenty minutes later they were still sat there watching TV so they clearly didn’t have anything better to do’
Through out my life I have always been very talkative, mouthy at times and never very popular but I had managed to make one friend her name was Lilly Smith. She had gotten a job in office temping in London. We don’t see each other like we used to but she was always game when I wanted to go out or used to be pre Adam. Since Adam we had only been out twice as Adam had disapproved of me going out without him and he didn’t like Lilly all that much.
Lilly was always the trouble maker, always kept behind after school, banned from school trips and always being sent to the head masters office. I was always the trusty side kick except the teachers were that frightened of my aunt they were pretty reluctant to punish me so poor Lilly used to take a the flak for everything. I know it was probably stupid and I was really going to suffer over this but I couldn’t stay in this house anymore.
I rang Lilly who was delighted to hear from me and readily agreed to go out on the town with me. Now all I needed to do now was get out of the house, I poked my head in on the two boring vampire and yes they were still there. I walked in a told them I didn’t feel well and that I was going back to bed. I also told them about Joshua phone call not telling them about how I answered as Kath had already read me the lecture on that one and to be honest didn’t really want to listen to it again and thought Joshua would fill her in for me anyway. To be honest neither looked that bothered or interested as I left and headed up to the stairs I heard low muttering and Kath giggled. I carried on up the stairs groaning and thinking that’s all I need my aunt seducing my bodyguard and then smiled glade I have not got to explain that one when Joshua found out about them.
I went to my room and began throwing clothes out of my wardrobe. Usually I am a very conservative dresser, but not when I go out clubbing I like to be free of my normal everyday life. I pull out I short black sexy dress that plunged down my back and my front but covered all the most important parts to keep me mostly decent. I put my trainers on and threw my high heeled shoes out the window. I applied eyeliner, mascara and silver and grey eye shadow to me eyes and finished with a little lip gloss. I tired my red hair up into a stylish knot on to the top of my head and left a few strands out to frame my face. Checking myself out in the mirror I decided I was ready to go. I listened for the two vampires down stairs who appeared to be still absorbed by the TV or each other. I open my bedroom window and sat on the ledge looking down. I was going to try and levitate myself down just like what I do with the paper weight and truth be told I was a little bit scared. Swallowing my fear I closed my eyes found my centre and concentrated I felt my body rise as I concentrated on what I was doing. Slowly I lowered myself down and opened my eyes with a foot to go and I was so thrilled with myself I broke my concentration and fell that last part. I landed with a thud thanking god as I collected my shoes that I was unhurt. I took my trainers off and swapped my trainers for my heels, checking the house and grounds I kept low by running as best as I could in heels in a crouch. I left the grounds pulled out my mobile phone and rang a taxi. I waited only 5 minutes at the end of the street until the taxi arrived. Mission accomplished!
The first part anyway. I had to stay hidden and out the way so once they knew I had gone missing they wouldn’t find me straight away and drag me back. I pulled up in my black cab outside a night club in central London, reportedly all the famous stars or sports men us this place to be honest I was never bothered but Lilly loves it. I know that the club is also used by vampires and werewolves who preyed on the rich. The club had a huge line that stretched along the street; I looked at the head of the line and saw that it was one of Kath’s fledglings that manned the door.
Kath over the years had fledgling vampires who used to come in out of her life and our house but she would only turn if there was no other choice. Dean who was stood at the door was the last and that was about six years back whilst Alex my brother was still at home. Dean was built like rugby player tall, huge shoulders and a mop of blond hair and the source of all my teenage fantasies and heartache when I found out that him and my aunt had been lovers.
Plastering a huge smile on my face I approached Dean whilst I waited for Lilly to arrive “hello Dean long time” I said.
“Well hello there Sarah” he said as he sung round towards me giving me the once over, “you grown up well” he then caught me up in a huge hug that lifted me off the ground. Smiling a wrapped my arms round him and hugged him back I did always like Dean.
“How you been Dean?” I ask.
“Good sweetheart. How’s Kath?” he asked no tone to his voice. I had a feeling years ago that he and Kath didn’t part on good terms and Deans dead tone seamed to back my thoughts up.
“You know she’s just same old Kath” I replied “she never changes.”
“No she never does” he adds. “What you doing over this way?”
“I’ve come to see you of course” I answer and Dean gives me a disbelieving look, I smile then add “and would like to get in your club”
Dean looked me up and down “alone?” he said with a disapproving tone in his voice.
“No I’m waiting for Lilly” Dean rolled his eyes Lilly when we where about 17 she had spent all summer trying to seduce him. He had to be very forceful and Lilly never came back to the house until he had left. “Your safe she’s got a boyfriend” Dean looked relived. I stayed with Dean at the door making small talk for about 15 minutes. I was tapped on the shoulder and I froze thinking the worst that it maybe Kath or even Joshua. I turned and looked down into the face of my best friend Lilly.
Lilly was a good head shorter than I, she was curvy and not got a ounce of fat on her she had a blood red dress on that was similar to mine but was long with a slit up her right leg to the top of her thigh. She had black hair that fell straight and had always been thick and shiny and always behaved and did what it was told. We hugged and I then reintroduced her to Dean who looked like he couldn’t string a sentence together at the sight of Lilly.
Lilly whilst we were growing up was a complete tom boy, spots freckles and all and when she grew up she grew up to be beautiful. I don’t think Dean knew what to say so just waved us in. Lilly threw Dean her most devastating smile and we entered I turned to wave at Dean who still had his jaw open and was looking at our departure or Lilly to be more accurate. I don’t remember the name of the club, but this club had class. White walls surrounded us with long black and red drapes along door frames, the club had three floors the ground floor was where they had live acts and most the dancing was done. It continued with the colour them from the entry. This however looked more like a really upper class bar. With a huge stage and dance area which was heaving. The tables scattered around with setting all in white and chrome with some soft seating on the right and left.
We didn’t talk at all whilst we made our way through the club we wouldn’t have been able to hear each other any way. Lilly led the way to a stair case on the left towards the back which I presumed was up to the next floor. I wasn’t disappointed we head up the grand stair case and through another set of door when we entered the atmosphere was completely different. It was relaxed there was no heavy dance music like there had been down stairs. The furnishing was all gold’s and creams leather sofas and solid wooden furniture tables. The bar was situated in the middle of the room and was manned by at least half a dozen staff. There were little cubicles where couples could get some privacy. I looked across the room at another stair case but there was a huge bouncer on the door that must be the VIPs room I mused. We walked towards the Bar and ordered two white wines. I prefer beer but I was not going to embarrass my friend. We took a small table with a cream sofa and sat.
“So how have you been Sarah” she asked.
I thought about my answer before I spoke, I mean its not as if I could tell her someone tried to kill me, and that I’m a witch who is getting magical training from a vampire master who just happens to be the most powerful man in England probably. Oh and his super fit and I want to jump his bones. So I took the easy way out “I’m ok Adams and I have split up.”
“Good he was no good for you anyway” she said with a sympathetic smile.
“I know but I found him in bed with two other women, I was going over to break it off with him anyway, but you know it still hurts” a little bit of hurt leaked into my voice.
Just like my aunt Lilly burst into laughter and said between fits “I didn’t think he had it in him” and would start to laugh again. I smiled too not really ready to laugh about it yet, I noticed that we had got a few looks from a few of the other clubbers and tried to shush Lilly who as usual took no notice.
“Lilly please” I pleaded “we being looked at”
Lilly waved her hand in dismissal and said “so they shouldn’t have such boring life to want to listen to us.” in theory I agree but it’s just rude to point it out.
“So Lil what up with you” I ask wanting to change the subject.
Lilly then explained that her and Paul had split a few months ago, I started to offer my sympathy which she quickly brushed away and said that she was now dating a bloke called Andrew. She said that he was a business associate that comes by the office where she was temping and it was love at first sight and that was why she had to finish things with Paul. Lilly had been a busy girl I thought
“He will be along later” she informed me. I snapped my head round to look at her, great I thought I will have to play gooseberry. “His bringing a friend along just for you” she added. I cringed inside and kept my oh my snide comment to myself.
For the next 40 minutes or so we talked about nothing important really, she asked if we had heard from Alex, as she knew how much I missed my elder brother. I told her we had not and quickly changed the subject to her family. Just then a tall dark haired male model type approached us and dropped a kiss on Lilly now blushing cheek.
“You must be Andrew?” I stated.
“And your Sarah Drake” he replied I stood to greet him and placed a soft kiss to my right cheek. I turned to look at Lilly and discreetly gave her thumbs up. She smiled but remained quiet.
“I would like to introduce you to Peter” Andrew said and with that a second good looking man came round from behind him not so tall but stocky and a deep brown head of hair, he offered me his hand, I took it he then bought my hand to his lips and kissed the top of my fingers. Now normally when a good looking man did this I would swoon or blush but with Peter it just felt wrong and dread filtered its way through my body. There was something not right with this Peter.
The two men went to the bar to go and get a bottle of champagne, as soon as they had gone Lilly turned to me “what do you think?”
“About” I said playing dumb I didn’t really want to answer.
“Peter silly” she said rolling her eyes at me. “His very good looking isn’t he, his new and working along side Andrew”
“His new so you set me up with someone you don’t even know” I said not sounding at all happy.
“Andrew knows him and I know Andrew” she said sounding a little put out with my less than happy reception. I held me hands in surrender making Lilly smile, it all still felt off. The two men at this had rejoined us and Peter was pouring the champagne. When I noticed someone at the bar, no it couldn’t have been Alex I thought. I stood and excused myself heading in the direction I was blocked by another woman in a black cat suit who nearly fell in a heap right in front of me I helped steady her and when I looked back at the bar he had gone or I had imagined it.
I returned to the table and had three sets of eyes looking at me “my mistake” I told them and rejoined the group. In general the evening was pleasant Andrew and Peter was both excellent company but the night was drawing to a close and I was trying to dismiss Peter with out causing offence, adding another man to my life was asking for trouble which I was in enough anyway especially when I got home. Then before I could formulate an escape Andrew and Lilly took there leave, with waves and kisses I remained silent as good byes were given and cast daggers at my not so best friend who had decided to ignore me.
Great I thought “another drink” Peter asked me.
I put my best fake smile on and declined peter looked a little disappointed but didn’t push the issue.
“I have just got to pass on my regards to the owner of the club then I’ll take you home” he said standing “wait would you like to meet him?” he added. No not really I thought but agreed not wanting to sit in the bar alone. Nodding my head I stood, Peter casually took my hand in his; I wanted to rip my hand out of his but left it there so not to cause a scene. His touch had made my skin crawl, then the penny had sunk in he was a vampire that was why I was getting strange vibes from him. I started to pull my hand away but he tightened his grip he looked back at me and the look of pure menace stopped my pulling.
“Come quietly or I will drag you and it won’t be pleasant. Your choice!” he hissed.
I chose and carried on walking. We went further in to the club and up to the VIP area. The bouncer nodded to Peter as we walked through.
“Oh shit” I exclaimed as I looked around this section was defiantly VIP but only if you’re a vampire. The whole level was decorated in blood red. Soft furnishing scattered everywhere from cushions, sofas even beds. Everywhere I looked there where naked men and women performing sexual acts to each other and a lot of biting as well. We entered and peter had to drag me the first few steps as I was unable to move through shock and a tiny bit of fascination. We walked down the centre of this giant orgy, I really did try to keep my eyes in front of me but every now and then a couple or group would catch my interest some even beckoned me to join in with them.
Half way through to my right was a women bent over the back of a chair and had her skirt around her waist, with a man entering her from behind the women had got bites and blood all over her neck but seamed to be enjoying herself. The man who was impaling her on to his very impressive penis looked me straight in the eye and smiled forcing me to look away. Peter must have watched me and laughed at my discomfort. He stopped our progress and stood in front of me, I turned my head away so not to have to look at him. Groans and moans filled the room, the smell of sex and sweat filled my senses and happy naked people filled my vision. It was too much to bare a tear leaked from my eye and ran down my cheek. Peter stood there laughing at me. He lifted his hand a wiped the tear tracing it down my check to my collar and down between my breasts. I lost it at that point and smacked his hand away,
“Bitch” he then back handed me and knocked me to the floor. “When his finished with you little virgin your mine” he dragged me up a practically ran me the remainder of the way to the last set of doors. The two huge vampires that stood there open the door to admit us. I walked in and Peter pushed me to my knees my face stung and I could feel blood dripping where my skin had split. There was a big wooden oak desk with a chair facing away from us.
“Lord she’s here as you requested” Peter said aiming it towards the stranger sat in the chair. I kept my head down not wanting to draw any attention to myself unwilling to look my captures in the face.
“How have you been sis” the stranger said. I snapped my head up as the stranger had turned to face me. I came eye to eye with my brother Alex. “Nice to see you again it’s been a while.”
I was speechless not one word would come from my lips. “That’s not like you Sarah I’m sure you got something to say about all this” he added when I remained silent.
He came from around the desk and knelt in front of me taking my chin to get a better look at my now bruising face. He knelt forward and licked the blood from my face and looked back at me to see my reaction would be.
“Vampire” I whispered. He nodded slowly to let me know I was correct. He looked at my face and raised an eyebrow in a silent question like he used to do. My gaze flicked towards Peter and back quickly Alex understood as he always had as we were children.
“You struck my sister and I don’t remember giving you permission to do so” Alex said a deadly silky voice.
“She was being difficult lord” Peter replied a slight tremor now had crept in his voice. Alex had now stood and had begun circling him.
“I expect exact obedience” with that Alex struck Peter in the chest. I heard a horrid cracking and the wet slurping sound followed by a heavy thud. When I looked Peter was on the floor with a huge whole in his chest. Alex stood with what must be his heart in his hand blood up to his elbow. And blood splattered everywhere and over me. Alex looked down at me gave one final look at what he held in his hand before throwing it to the floor and sitting back behind his huge desk. He took a handful of tissue out of a box on his desk and wiped most of the blood off his hands.
“Come sit” Alex indicated the chair opposite him. I stood on very shaky legs, holding on to the chair and sitting down in it to face my brother. “Still speechless Sar” he asked as he threw the blooded tissues on to his desk.
I took the time to look around my brother’s office. It was full of expensive art and collectables but surprising tasteful.
“I can see your sense of style at least has improved” I said this caused my brother to roar with laughter.
“Oh how I’ve missed you” he said real affection evident for the first time.
“Where” I was going to say where the hell have you been until Alex cut me off.
“We have not got time for all this family reunion bullshit” he said as the hurt of his words slammed into me tears formed in my eyes ready to flow free.
“I am offering you a choice, I am willing to let you join me, your magic is a valuable asset even more so now that its active.” he stated.
“How did you know?”
“Who do you think arranged for your attack to activate it” he said pride laced his voice.
“I could have been killed you idiot” I shouted back, raising my self out of the chair.
“No you would not have been, sit down and shut up” the deadly edge had returned to his tone, so I did what he told me to do and sat down swallowing my next insult that was on the tip of my tongue.
“So what happens if I refuse?” I asked filling the silence when he didn’t speak for a moment.
“You will be completely drained of your essence and your magic will be transferred to me” no feeling was shown as he stated my second choice.
“I would be easier if you weren’t the one I needed, but you was my family I thought you deserved a choice”
“What would you have me do” I asked my heart breaking at this making it clearer that this isn’t the brother I remember.
He stood up slowly leaning over the desk to look me dead in the eye “ANYTHING I FUCKING WANT YOU TO DO!!!” he roared at me. He sat back down before he continued “there’s an annoying master vampire that needs to die in order for me to take over London’s coven. I believe you have met the Joshua Palmer.”
I remained silent, thinking to myself now I know why Joshua was involved. I looked up at my brother and saw a smug smile across his face. The phone on his desk rang and Alex answered it. I couldn’t hear what the person on the other end of the phone said but Alex’s answer was a yes.
“Your rescue party have arrived” he said replacing the receiver. “you have a week where I will take no action against you as long as you keep your mouth shut and don’t tell that bitch you call aunt or Mr Palmer about what we have discussed tonight. If you do I will act accordingly” he stated.
“What happens if I refuse your offer” I asked him.
“You will die and so will Kath and so will Lilly and I‘ll end up getting what I want anyway” he answered. He stepped away from the desk and placed his hand on a picture opening a door that had cleverly been incorporated in to the décor.
“So brother” I spat “offer me death or slavery”
“Yes” he said as his eyes fixed on me “I only offer you the choice to honour the family bond we used to share, I don’t care what you choose I will get what I want” he stepped through the door way.
“One week Sarah that it is when I want your answer” he added has he disappeared behind the door with a click the door swung back into place.
“Go to hell” I whispered to my self as my tears finally fell.
A few minutes later Joshua Palmer walked through the door alone. He took in the dead body on the floor and came round to face me he crouched down to my level to look me in the eye. His face was full of anger I noted when I raised my eyes to look at him. As I stared back his eyes went from anger to sympathy the anger was still there but hidden for now. I looked into his eyes for what seamed like forever, I couldn’t take anymore and threw my self at him and held on for dear life to him. To my surprise he didn’t push me away but wrapped his arms around me and just held me and for now that’s was exactly what I needed.


Chapter 6


Joshua held me and I felt safe he didn’t try and rush me or try to get me to let go of him. He didn’t even try to get me to leave the club until I was ready. Once I had myself back under control and my sobs had stopped I felt I was ready to leave, I removed myself from his arms and stood up on rather shaky legs Joshua also stood and continued to remain close to me. I didn’t know if he was still offering comfort or possibly thinking I may do a runner again and was staying close enough to catch me if I did attempt to escape.
“Ready to leave” he said softly I nodded in agreement.
“Which way” I ask.
“Back through the main bar” he replied.
Bloody hell I thought back through the sex fest. I nodded my understanding and letting him know I was ready, Joshua took my hand in his and together we walked back out into the night. To be honest I was so distracted about the fact that Joshua was holding my hand and his overall presents I didn’t pay attention to my surrounding at all and before I knew it we were stood out side on the pavement.
Dean was still manning the door and tried to engage me in conversation until he saw who was with me, even raised his eyes at us in surprise when he noticed us hand in hand as Joshua hadn’t let go of my hand as we had left the club. Joshua walked with me to the curb and a long black limousine pulled up. The driver got out and opened the door for us I climbed in followed closely by Joshua. I sat nearest the window and looked out lost in thought most of the drive home. I must have fallen asleep as Joshua woke me by gently shaking me. I had got my head on his very muscular thigh when I came to and his hand was on my shoulder holding me in place.
“Your home” Joshua said. He had already gotten out and held his hand out for me helping me on to my feet. I was exhausted and swayed from side to side. Joshua took one look at how exhausted I was and before I knew it he had scooped me up into his arms. I snuggled further into him, as he walked up to my front door. The door swung open to reveal a rather scary looking aunt and a rather pissed Raul. Raul went to take me from Joshua who to everyone surprise growled I think he even managed to surprise himself. Raul backed off leaving me to Joshua. I heard my aunt begin with her questions when Joshua whispered to her and Kath immediately quieten, I mumbled a thank you which he must have heard as I felt him sigh. He carried me up to my room and lay me gently down on the bed. I had woken up a little by this point to see Joshua sat on the edge of my bed looking down on me.
“Thank you for coming to get me” I said. He smiled down at me a sad smile. He went to stand and I caught his hand to halt him which it did, he looked back at me but remained silent. Slowly I moved closer so our lips nearly touched he didn’t react so I placed my lips upon his and kissed him. He put his hand on my shoulders and I waited for him to push me away in rejection but he didn’t he kissed me back. Smiling I deepened the kiss and he matched me kiss for kiss. The kiss didn’t last long before he pulled away and gently pushed me away; I snuggled down into my bed and closed my eyes to sleep. He stood and I could feel him looking down at me whispering “I don’t want this” and with that I heard him leave shutting the door behind him. His parting words had dulled the afterglow of the kiss we had just shared but I was too tired to think and I quickly lost consciousness.

I woke with a major headache it was 8.30pm the following night and I was still tired I looked down at myself and still wore the clothes from the night before. I pulled myself very reluctantly out of bed and headed to my ensuit to shower. I stripped off and turned the water up high and stood under the stream of hot water.
The events of the night before began to replay in my mind, from seeing Lilly and then my brother. I also imagined Joshua and me rolling around a large bed just like I had seen some of the couples at the club and my whole body flushed with even more warmth. My libido soon cooled when I thought of his parting words to me “I don’t want this” nether do I mate. I thought to myself.
I exited the shower and wrapped a huge white towel around my body and sat on my the end of my bed, I reached over to my desk and took my hair brush and brushed my hair. My mind wandered to my brother I hadn’t seen him in six years, he looked the same but he was not the brother I remembered. My brother I remembered loved me cared for me and protected me. This brother wanted to use me or kill me, probably both. That is where my problem lay neither option was viable, and I couldn’t go running to Kath or the choice would be void and then we know what would happen next.
There was also the issue of Joshua, I was attracted to him and yes it was I think mutual. The problem lay with the fact that I didn’t trust him and suspected that he knew more about what was going on more than I. my hand had stilled in its task and tears silently ran down my face.
There was then a knock on the door and my aunt saying my name, I sprinted to the door and threw the bolt across and jumped back under the covers of my bed trying to block the world out. I heard my aunt try and turn the handle and open the door followed by a list of obscenities when she found it locked. To my surprise walked away even though she is strong enough being a vampire to break the door down if she had wanted to and trust me she had done so in the past.
I lay there for hours no closer to a answer than when I first jumped back into my bed, Kath and I think Raul visited my door knocking and calling my name, asking if I was okay or if I wanted to eat or drink. I refused to speak and didn’t answer them. Do I sacrifice myself to keep my aunt safe but condemn Joshua or refuse and we all die anyway. I needed to see my brother I glanced at the clock 11.30pm time to get up I thought.
I dressed in jeans and loose top and tired my hair up, straightened out my bed and threw back the bolt I used to lock my door and open it. Nearly walking straight into Joshua’s chest. I looked up into his face which was back to his usual emotionless stern expression. Gone was the caring man from last night who kissed me and held me safe.
“Excuse me” I said as I tried to push past him but he remained still not allowing me to pass.
“Where are you going Sarah? I have come to continue with your education” he told me.
“Out” was all I said and I again tried to move past him and again he continued to bloke me. He moved further into my room making me step back, he turned and shut the door behind us locking us both in. I stood there defiantly arms crossed across my chest. He looked down on me waiting for me to speak.
“What do you want?” I demanded.
“I already declared my intensions and the lesson is going to be here if you unwilling to comply and move to a usual location for the training. And hear me Sarah I will have my way” he threatened.
“Fine” I said sitting down on the floor in my usual cross legged position. His eyebrow rose at my easy compliance. He sat in front of me assuming the same pose as I had.
“Do you want to explain your behaviour last night?” he asked silkily.
“No not really” I answered him back using a similar tone to him.
“You are not an adolescence child who does not know or appreciate what responsibility is. You are 23 years of age an adult whom has a job with responsibility and have others in your care. You left this house knowing that you are under threat” he said coldly. “Would you have allowed children in your care to do what you have done?” he added.
“I am a prisoner here, I have done everything you and my aunts have asked with little complaint. If I had asked to go out would you have allowed it Mr Palmer?” I spat. He sat there just staring at me.
“Yes but with protection”
“And that’s the whole point I am a private person, Adam dominated my life for the past three years controlling every action, now I have you and my aunt who have taken over from where he left off.” I could feel the tears gathering again.
“I understand your frustration, Sarah but I do what I do for a reason not just to stop your fun.” he said more kindly. I bowed my head in acknowledgment of his words,
“Sorry I just want to be free” I whispered, and was surprised by Joshua response
“Don’t we all” I thought I heard him whisper but I chose not to reply.
I smile and look back up at him to see a small smile was also upon his lips. We silently continued with my usual concentration exercises, but with little success as I was too preoccupied with Alex and his ultimatum. Joshua sensing my lack of effort called the lesson short. I had relaxed with him again and my body had begun also to react to him by tingling whenever we touched heating my whole body through.
“Sarah I feel that we are not going to accomplish much tonight, rest and we will resume tomorrow” he said and stood and just like last night I placed my hand on his arm stopping his leaving. He looked down at my hand then back at me, I removed my hand but Joshua waited for me to speak.
“I want to trust you” I said softly.
“Is this about last night” he asked.
“Yes” was all I replied. He sighed heavily before he spoke but did resume his seat on the floor.
“I don’t want a relationship with you or anyone if I thought you were in it just for sex I would consider it but that’s not who you are, Sarah”
“I know that, but there so much I’ve got to think about”
“Like what” he asked with a frown. “What are you not saying?” thankfully I had learnt to shield my thoughts early on from him or he would have had a blow by blow account of Alex’s threats towards me.
“May I go out I have a something to take care of” I sweetly asked completely changing the topic. “I’ll take Raul with me” I added. Joshua looked long and hard at me as if looking for something. He must have seen it as he nodded his consent.
I got up and put my shoes on, and then made my way down to the kitchen to come face to face with my furious aunt. To my surprise she stayed silent. I grabbed myself a cup coffee and sat down to drink it.
“We are going out so I have been told” Raul spoke to me displeasure noted in his tone.
Before I could reply Kath marched and got in my face and screamed “the only reason I haven’t beating you black and blue from that stunt you pulled is because his lordship has told us to leave you alone!” her tone quietened down so I could barely hear her “I am so disappointed in you Sarah” with that she left. I was completely shocked never had she said anything like that to me before. I knew I had messed up this time.
“As am I” Raul added whilst standing in the door way after just witnessing Kath’s hurtful but justified comment.
“I need to speak with someone” with that I made my way through the house to the front door not waiting to see if Raul had followed but of course he did. We got back into my mini cooper but Raul drove this time, I got him to drive me to the club from last night and he wasn’t happy I could tell my the look on his face but he opted to remain silent.
We pulled up and again Dean was on the door I jumped out of the car and marched straight up to him and got straight up into his face.
“You knew” I stated “you knew and let me go in there.”
“Sarah I had no choice” he started to say.
“Where is he” I demanded cutting his explanation short. “I have a week, I’m sure you are aware of the conditions he gave me”
Raul stood beside me watching the interplay between dean and me.
“I’ve got to make a call” he said as he removed his mobile phone from his pocket, and stepped away to make his call.
“Are you going to tell me what’s going on a week for what?” Raul hissed in my ear. I turned to look at him and answered as truthfully as I could.
“I don’t know myself.”
Dean returned to us and gave me address of an office block 15minute drive away I turned on my heel with Raul by my side and walked away from my one time friend. We got in the car and head over to the new address.
It took roughly about twenty five minutes by the time we fought our way through the traffic to pull up to a huge office block. I walked through the glass do and approached the receptionist on the desk, but before I even had chance to speak she told me I was expected to carry on through. I looked around me searching for security cameras that must have seen us enter. Raul came along with me until she called back “alone” .
“No fucking way” he said matter of fact.
“Please trust me” I implored. “I’ll be right back.” I continued on casting a glance back at Raul who had a face of pure outrage upon it I entered his office to be greeted by Alex wiping blood from his chin and a women of dark blond hair passed out on the floor at hi feet, I looked again I realised she might even be dead.
“I didn’t expect to see you so soon” he said throwing his handkerchief on his desk before sitting back down behind his desk
“Why do this, what did I ever do to you?” I pleaded.
“Nothing” was his answer.
“Well why?” I repeated.
“You was given a gift yet you wasted it, I wanted it, craved it but got nothing” he said steepling his hand in front of his chest. “You was always favoured but I got the scrapes”
I started to deny it but to my horror I couldn’t Alex was ignored as I treasured and dotted on because of my magical potential even though I still chose to throw it away and lead a normal life. I understood what Alex was saying but to me it was no excuse for what he was doing now.
“You had a choice I had shit” sighing he stood and walked to around the back of me as if he was circling around me, he then leaned into me to my back to speak into my ear “I even asked the bitch to change me, but I couldn’t even have that” he added moving back to sit in his chair.
“That’s not my doing” I said quietly to myself.
“But you’ll pay me anyway” he answered. “You have 6 days Sarah don’t waste it” he added in dismissal but I stayed put.
“What about Kath will she be safe from you?” I asked.
“Don’t ask questions that you won’t like the answers to” he said. I could feel the rage in me grow not only was he going to make me pay he was also going to make my only remaining family pay.
“It will take more than you to accomplish that” I spat “and Mr Palmer what of him?” he smiled but didn’t answer me. I wanted to lash out and before I knew what had happened I had raised my brother whole body up and flung him across the room. He hit the far wall with a loud crack.
I backed up to the door but my brother had got back to his feet an evil smile across his lips and he began to approach me. I tried to hit him with my power again but sent the desk clattering instead due to my panic and poor aim. That distracted me long enough allowing Alex to reach me and pin me up against the wall bearing his fangs at me.
“You’ll pay for that bitch” he then sunk his fangs into my neck and bite down Pain from the bite shot through my body and then I started to relax and my world dimmed I became limp and darkness descend. I then felt him remove his mouth from my neck. I was held in Alex’s arms and for a moment I imagined I saw sorrow but quickly it changed to triumph. He threw me down to the ground right next to his earlier lunch and stepped over me headed for the door.
“I’ll send your companion in, you have 6 days left Sarah attack me again and I will kill you” he then left the room a few moments later Raul came crashing through dropping to his knees beside me
“You fool” I heard him say,
“I know” I weakly replied pushing myself into a sitting position. “My fault I broke the rules” I added. Raul helped me to my feet. I brushed my hand down my clothing to remove the dirt from the floor off my clothes.
“You won’t be able to hide that from Kath or Joshua” he said tilting my head to take a closer look at Alex’s bite mark.
“I know Kath going to go mental; considering she’s a vampire she is quite strict about not getting bitten, and dating vampires for that matter.”
“That’s because some victims become addict to the feeling of pleasure or complete euphoria that the bite of a vampire can produce. Some people willing become cattle to us and live only to get bitten by us.”
“I never knew that” I said gingerly touching my neck.
“You’ll live, but I would be more worried by Joshua reaction than your Aunts” Raul said with a half smile.
“My master whether he is willing to accept it considers you his or a least his vampire half does.” he said no smile evident on his usual jolly face.
“He doesn’t want that from me, he was very clear about that” I replied.
“I know that” he said roughly “intellectually he knows that’s what he wants, but physically his reactions are doing the opposite.” Raul explained.
“I don’t understand” I protested.
Taking a deep breath before he answered me, also I think he was deciding if to answer me at all. “when we think or feel that something is our we become overly protective, when he bought you back last night I tried to take you from him” he paused to emphasize what was coming next “he growled at me and in whole the five hundred years I have known him I have never seen that reaction that strong from him over anything or anyone.”
“So what are you saying?” I asked.
“What I am saying he wants you but he is fighting it, and he is going to definitely react very strongly to you being bitten. Another vampire has touched you. Biting with vampires is very intimate. ” he informed me. Raul’s words scared me a little and I paced around the room as Raul watched.
“What’s he going to do?” I swung round to face Raul whilst I asked my question.
“I don’t know Sarah” was all he said.
“Can I hide it from him” I asked, Raul again sighed before he answered me.
“no, but you can delay the confrontation you need to shower to remove his scent from you and wear something to cover the bite, but it wont hide it for long or maybe not at all.” I walked to out the building towards the car when Raul grabbed my arm and looking intensely at me.
“You will never leave me behind again do you understand?” he demanded.
I nodded my head in agreement; we both got into the car again Raul drove us home. We got to my home but before we went in Raul stopped me with asking the one question I knew I didn’t want to answer.
“Who was that vampire, a lover, or a friend” he asked.
I headed to the house and entered through the back door. I knew he waited for my answer bit didn’t press. He put the coffee pot on as I grabbed a towel and wet it to clean some of the blood from my neck.
“Neither his name is Alex” was all I said.
“He is Sarah brother and my nephew” Kath finished as she walked into the kitchen.
“Would you like to tell me what’s going on” she said harshly.
I told everything that had gone on the last two days except the ultimatum that Alex had given me and his threat to Joshua. Kath remained silent throughout my narrative. Kath tilted my head just as Raul had done earlier looking at my bite.
“I will kill that ungrateful child” she announced and began pacing.
“I need to know about what am I supposed to do regarding Joshua.” I asked my aunt then briefly repeated my conversation I’d had with Raul. She looked at Raul for confirmation which he gave with a nod of his head.
“Well Sarah all I can say is that I thought things were heading that way with you but never imagined it in regards to him.” she said sounding quite stunned. “But Sarah your in over your head with him” she added laughing at my stricken face.
“What’s he liable of doing to me because of this” I said as I pointed at my neck.
“He may bite you, he may physically threaten you it’s a sort of mastering you to establish his authority over you, taking back what is his.” she explained.
“Great” I moaned throwing my hand in the air. I looked over at the clock it was 2am but I remained wide awake, “I need a shower, he is not coming till tomorrow will the things that Raul suggested help” I asked Kath.
“They may” she said but grimaced and added “but I doubt it, his very old and very powerful but you can try.”
I went to my room throwing an evil glance at my aunt as I left; I showered and dressed ready for bed. It was now 3.25am and I now had at least 4 hours till my usual bed time. I got my romance novel and read for the next 2 hours, I cleaned my room, I was worried about meeting Joshua again after what Raul and Kath had said earlier, I believed that they were wrong he had said that he didn’t want me like that. I looked at the clock again 6.25am I could take no more I checked that my dressing was in place and settled down sleep came upon me quickly.


Chapter 7


I awoke sore, aching and still tired. I looked at the clock 9pm it read. I was astonished that I had slept for so long. I got up stretching and took another long shower to hopefully wipe any remaining traces of Alex from my skin. My neck throbbed but wasn’t painful. Once showered I replaced the dressing and dressed in trousers and a blouse with a high collar to cover my neck. I crept across the landing to the top of the stairs and heard voice talking in the kitchen I didn’t remain there as they probably heard me anyway as its impossible to eavesdrop on vampire due to their bloody super hearing. I could hear Kath, Raul and a third person who given the tone of the conversation was Joshua.
I walked the remainder of the way and joined the group in the kitchen, the conversation sounded heated when I entered silence descended in the kitchen. The atmosphere was thick with tension mainly radiating from Kath direction. Raul looked his usual self and Joshua looked quiet relaxed. He greeted me with a nod and was drinking something red out of a glass. Nausea fit me briefly I never did like it when Kath used to drink blood in front of me, however she hadn’t don’t it in years knowing my reaction, Joshua just didn’t think or care what I thought so I picked up a mug of coffee and left to sit in the lounge until Joshua was ready for me.
I heard voices continue with their debate. I heard Kath ask if I could be excused from training today as I needed rest, I heard Joshua’s negative response and turned up the TV to drown them out. I was grateful that Kath was trying to give me more time to heal; but to be honest I would rather get our confrontation out the way, than keep putting it off. The TV held no interest for me and basically I was in for a boring wait, surprisingly I was calm I mean no one knew how this was going to play out it might surprise everyone and Joshua may not react at all.
Joshua walked in and walked through to the office space where he usually gave me my magical lessons. He sat as always on the floor and indicated with his hand that I should sit which I did without comment or question.
“What happened yesterday Sarah?” he asked.
“I’m sure Raul and Kath have filled you in.” I answered as neutrally as possible. He frowned but didn’t comment his eyes searched my face and then wandered across my body looking for something. I knew he would feel something out of place with me.
“Why are you nervous?” he asked.
Dam I thought “tired that’s all” is the answer I gave him.
He leaned forward as if he was sniffing me, his eyes bore into mine but I didn’t look away hoping to front it out. He sat back frown still in place but began our session with the usual centring exercise. My bite mark itched and it took all my will not to scratch it so not to bring attention to it. If Joshua noticed my fidgeting he didn’t comment.
“Today we are going to test if you have any control over the elements fire and water today only” he stated getting my full attention back.
“I never have before” I said.
“You were never tested Kath didn’t allow them to complete your testing process.” he replied,
“Oh”
“Oh indeed”
What he got me to do was basic tricks light a candle then put out the flame, also warm up a bowel of water; he also had me moving the water around in the bowel making it rise and fall. Everything he asked me to do I did on my first attempt I was imprested with myself, the thing was that I was so worried about everything else I was relying on instinct and it was working. Joshua showed no reaction either way. Here we go back to the iceman I mused. I got so distracted and warm considering that we had been playing with fire literally for the last hour I pulled down my shirt collar to cool myself.
His gaze fastened to me, I realised what I had been doing oh shit I whispered, Joshua raised his hand touching the dressing,
“What is under this?” he asked tension evident in every part of his body. I opened my mouth but shut it again the words sticking in my throat. He still didn’t move but waited his thumb gently for now stroking along my exposed skin on my neck that was sending tingles along the areas he was touching. I was surprised that even though I was frightened about his reaction my body was leaning in to his touch.
“I need to speak to you” was all I said and moved out of his grasp and stood. Joshua stood but kept his distance watching me. “I have seen my estranged bother recently for the first time in about 6 years” I began to pace but he remained still, “it didn’t go well” was all I said.
“And” he prompted me.
“He is now as you are a vampire” I stated stopping my pacing to face him.
Nothing flicked across his face to indicate to me what was going on with him, I looked away briefly but before I could look back he had raised his hand and sent a blast of energy towards me knocking me back and pinning me up against the wall. I screamed as the breath was knocked out of me as I hit the wall. Kath came running in and placed her self in front of me,
“No master” was all she said as he physically grabbed her and flung her out the room. Kath nine hundred years old and as hard as nails but compared to Joshua was still an infant week in his powers. He raised his hand and made a gesture at the door which slammed shut and began to shimmer a silvery colour he must have sealed the door. His attention came back to me his eyes locked on to mine.
He came to a stop directly in front of me and reached up and pulled the dressing off, I grimaced as he removed the dressing from my throat it must have bleed as I felt a little wetness trail down my exposed neck. He looked down at it and as gentle as he was earlier ran his finger down the marked skin.
“Who bite you?” he managed to ask through gritted teeth.
“Why?” I dared to ask.
“You are mine”
“You don’t want me you made that very clear” I replied.
He moved back from me but continued to hold me in place.” I know” I heard him say as a sigh. He came back to me. “I don’t know what’s going to happen Sarah but I do know at this moment in time I am beyond angry and I feel with my whole being that your mine. Who bit you I won’t ask you again?” he demanded.
“Alex my brother” I said pain clearly could be heard.
“That is the only reason I have not sank my teeth into you to remove the rest of his scent from your skin.” he let me fall to the floor but quickly reached down to help me.
“How did you know” I asked.
“His scent is very much like yours just masculine that’s why it took me a while to detect it.” he replied.
“Can I sit” and slumped back to the floor. Joshua waited a second then followed me to the floor “I am very sore from yesterday being thrown around like a rag doll for the last two days does that to you.” I said sarcasm in every word.
“I am sorry Sarah, but vampire tend to be very territorial” he started to tell me.
“Yeah I know possessive, overbearing, and jealous. Have I forgotten anything” I asked.
Joshua smiled his full smile at me not one of his usual half ones which I was used to seeing.
“No you haven’t” he replied.
Joshua reached for me again gently touching my wound on my neck stroking it, he leaned closer his head almost buried in my neck. I felt him breath in deeply taking in my scent, I felt a warm wet sensation along my skin then it registered he was licking my blood that had ran from where he’d removed my dressing, my first thought was nasty, then it felt sort of nice and a little comforting but not once did I think to push him away. He made three or four passes with his tongue before he raised his head.
“It will help with the healing” he told me. The thing was I didn’t want him to stop, my heart was thudding in my chest Joshua must be aware of it. Joshua was still close I leaned forward and kissed him and to my surprise he didn’t push me away. This time he was the aggressor pushing me back so I was lying on the floor, his body pressed into mine. His kisses became deeper and more passionate; his hands began to explore my body seeking the warmth of my skin that lay beneath my clothing. My whole body hummed with need for this man I let my hands explore him including his well muscled back to his shapely backside.
He had gotten my blouse off and had stopped the kissing to pull it off and discard it. He ran his finger feather light across the top of my breasts. I arched into his touch soft moans escaping my lips. He tore my bra in two moving it out of his way; he bought his mouth down to my nipple sucking it hard until it was erect. His hand played with the other making me writhe in pleasure. Need and liquid heat pooled in my centre making me grind against his thigh. I had managed to undo his shirt and he shrugged it off. He moved across to take my other nipple into his mouth, sucking and lightly nipping me.
His hand reached down between us and undid my trousers revealing the top of my lacy red thong. He pushed his hand inside running his touch over my opening; I gasp which he caught in his mouth kissing me again with passion. His finger stroked me again causing another moan to escape my lips. He had moved back up to my neck kissing and nipping his way there. He was making me crazy with need; I never wanted a man before as much as I wanted him. His fingers had continued to stroke my core finding my clitoris and picking up pace causing delicious friction and to move through my body, soft moans escaping my lips.
He then thrust a finger inside of me causing me to arch again into his touch, he kissed me again to settle me and surprised me by inserting s second finger stretching me causing a beautiful mix of pleasure and pain, I had the urge to move my hips to take his fingers further into me. I began to ride his hand and he pumped them into me as we found a rhythm together. I could feel my first orgasm building in me, Joshua continued to kiss me and I writhed in pleasure beneath him. I didn’t think I could take any more when it felt it hit me my whole body burst free with energy. I screamed at the pleasure that I was feeling as my orgasm took over my body. Joshua had at the same time sank his teeth into my neck over my previous bite and was drinking from me, each pull made my centre pulse with need and pleasure drawing out my orgasm .
Joshua removed his hand and lifted his head up to look at me. I lay there looking back unable to move, I was one very happy lady. He found my lips and gave them a soft kiss.
“You are a virgin” he asked not unkindly between kisses. I nodded my head in answer
“I’ve never wanted to before now” I said now shyly.
“And now is not the time for me to take it from you or if I am even the right man” he moved away from me giving me my blouse and getting his shirt back on. We dressed in silence. I was unsure how to act now and a million thoughts were crowding in my mind. We were both dressed and we just stood there looking at one another Joshua broke the stand off by pulling me into his arms and kissing my hair.
“What now” I said into his chest as he held me.
“I don’t know”
“I have to talk to you about something but we may as well join the others as I don’t really feel like going over it twice” I said. Joshua waved his hand and the shimmering disappeared from the door allowing us to pass through. Kath was stood outside fury marked her face but she remained silent following us into the lounge I stole a few looks at Joshua but his face remained expressionless, not showing that I had spent anytime in his arms.
Raul was already there and stood looking at the window, he bowed at Joshua as we entered and offered me a small smile when Joshua had turned away. I smiled in return and stood to his left to look out on the grounds too. Joshua took a seat and Kath stalked into the room taking a seat opposite, she was in a fury her eyes glued to Joshua.
“You wished to speak to me” Joshua said aiming the question at me ignoring Kath’s threatening attitude. Raul sensing that Kath may explode at any moment moved to stand by Joshua’s side.
“I have a few things to tell you about the other night when I went out with Lilly” I paced before my three listeners as they stayed silent and tracked my movements. I explained about Peter and him taking me to my brother and that he seamed please to see me at first then explained about his change in attitude.
“What do you mean his attitude changed” Kath had calmed down enough listening to my visit to ask a question.
“He has given me a choice” I said as I stood in front of Joshua and looked deep into his eyes pleading for understanding “and I have five days to make it.”
“What are your options” Joshua asked.
“I can’t say” I said quietly.
The whole room exploded Joshua leapt off the chair coming towards me. Kath and Raul moved at the same time and clashed throwing kicks and fists at one another their movements to quick for me to follow the room was being destroyed in the chaos. I backed up as Joshua approached me my body betrayed me and reacted with a surge of lust until my fear took over. I lifted my arms and threw energy at him which he battered away with a casual wave. I refocused and threw a larger blast at him he causing him to stagger but he brushed it off as well. I had backed up and was now going into the kitchen leaving Kath and Raul to their fight in the lounge as Joshua continued to still follow me into the kitchen.
“Please” I begged lifting my hands up in front of me.
I was up against the counter I had nowhere to go, he continued coming until he had pressed his body into mine and I was leaning back to put space between us.
“What choices” he asked low and menacing.
“I am begging don’t make me tell you” tears fell from my eyes. “The price is too high.”
“What is the price if you don’t” he demanded leaning closer still.
“One I’m willing to pay” I whispered but a bit of steal in my voice. He leaned in closer taking a deep breath breathing me in. he placed a kiss on my lips; his eyes staring into mine. I didn’t react because I was just so shocked.
“You are no longer under my protection, I withdraw my aid.” he said as he pulled back stepping away from me. I thought I saw a little regret before his expression went back to his usual stony mask that he wears.
“Raul” he yelled and left not looking back. I dropped to the floor putting my head in my hands I heard someone else approached me I looked up to see Raul looking down at me. He crouched so he was down at my level. He looked a little worse for wear his right side of his face was turning a horrible shade of purple and a little blood was smeared at the corner of his left eye.
“You should have told him he would have helped.” Raul said as he kissed my forehead and then stood “I’m sorry” and he too left.
I sat there unable to move, Kath came to me and slumped on the floor by my side and threw her arm over my shoulder hugging me to her.
“I’m sorry Kath” I sobbed.
“There must be a good reason why you won’t tell me or them what’s going on” she said stroking my hair. I nodded in agreement but didn’t say anything.
I don’t know how long we sat there but my backside had gone numb and by unspoken agreement we got up. I looked at kath and like Raul she just looked tired and had some yellow marks that must have been bruises, but thanks to vampire healing was nearly gone.
“Am you ok?” I asked her.
“Yes I’ll live” she said brushing my concern away “you?”
“I’m fine” I replied.
I took myself off to my room; kath had started cleaning up the destruction. I lay on my bed and cried until I was exhausted and couldn’t cry anymore, how could I go from feeling wonderful to feeling like my world had fallen apart and it was all because of Joshua. I didn’t even think about Alex threats. I had to face it I was falling in love with Joshua even though I know he didn’t feel the same about me. With this revelation I drifted off to a very troubled sleep dreaming of deep blue eyes.


Chapter 8


I didn’t sleep for long probably only about 2 hours or so, I got up not able to stay put the nervous tension making me jumpy and unable to stay still. I went back down stairs to interrupted Kath drinking a bottle of blood I averted my gaze until she finished. I just sat there not knowing what to say to fill the silence. I heard Kath throw the bottle away and sit back opposite me.
“What should we do now” I heard myself say.
“We’re on our own, I need to go hunting and I’m sorry but your going to have to come with me” she said regret and resolve evident in her voice. I bowed my heard and murmured my agreement.
“I must go soon, get dressed wear dark, warm and comfortable clothing so you can move easily. Oh and tie your hair back out the way” she said “I need you to be as near invisible as possible”
“But didn’t you just drink blood” I said pointing at the bin where Kath’s empty bottle was thrown.
“I have been injured, and I need extra blood. I can not get more till the morning so for what left of the night I must go hunting and I am not leaving you here on your own with your psycho brother on the loose” she stated.
I run upstairs and dressed as Kath had told me in black jeans and jumpers and tied my hair back. Kath was similarly dressed, except she looked drop dead gorgeous where I just looked plain.
We jumped in Kath’s car which was a black BMW; she pulled out of the driveway and drove like a lunatic further in to the city. We didn’t speak but if I’m honest I don’t think either of us wanted to or even knew what to say. We pulled up to a small bar; looking through the large glass windows it looked busy.
“Come on Sarah lets get this done and get back home” I sighed knowing I had no choice, we got out the car but didn’t enter the bar instead she made her way round to the side street. Kath pointed and told me to hide behind two large metal bins; I took my place and hid. Kath reached inside her jacket and pulled out a cigarette and lit it she then leaned up against the wall and waited. It didn’t take long before a lone figure came walking down toward where Kath was stood. It was clearly male because of his height and build, he was also clearly drunk by the fact that he was weaving his way towards us whilst tripping over his own feet twice he nearly fell but corrected himself at the last minute. He was also messing with the front of his trousers he must have come outside to relieve his bladder.
Kath made her move I didn’t hear what she said as a couldn’t hear from my position, the next thing I know Kath head was buried in his neck and her arms held him to her firmly. I was riveted by what she was doing I couldn’t look away thinking about when Joshua had done that to me and how wonderful it had felt and wondering if Kath lunch was feeling that to. I looked away when kath lifted her head I heard the man drop to the floor but I stayed hidden.
“Is he dead” I asked kath, she had walked over to me and I could see her shoe where she had stopped in front of me.
“No just tired” she reached down and pulled me up to my feet.
“We done”
“No I need at lest another two” she said as she kept watch. She left her hand on my arm and began to pull me along back to the car.
“What about him?” I kept looking over my shoulder to where he lay.
“He is asleep, tired he will wake with nothing more than a headache” sighing as she said “get in the car.” I got in and Kath drove off pulling up to another bar instead of bins I hid in a door way and this time it was a drunk couple who were getting hot and heavy up the wall of the bar.
Kath approached them taking firm control of the males mind and fed from the women first. I didn’t watched this time I couldn’t bring myself to. I looked up and down the side street and saw a group of about 4 or 5 coming towards us and they didn’t look friendly. I left my hiding place and made my way over to Kath who lifted her head to look at me, her eyes glowed a deep red her canines were still extended she looked feral. She looked over my shoulder and saw why I had interrupted her she dropped her lunch to the floor and grabbed me walking very quickly in the opposite direction. He came to a stop when another three walked to us from the direction we were heading.
We were trapped with nowhere to go. They were now just a few feet either side of us and stopped. The blond who I had encountered when my power first manifested stepped forward
“Hello again it’s nice to see you” she said sweetly.
“Cut the shit” kath spat “what do you want”
“You can not do this” I yelled “I still have time.” the blond smiled at me and came even closer.
“So you do” she acknowledged “but we have not come for you we have come for her. A little insurance to make sure you make the right choice.”
I didn’t think I just thrust my magic at her sending her again through the air to crash against the wall for the second time of meeting her and at that everything exploded. Our attackers charged us kath forced me to the back of her and my back was up against the wall. Three of the men came at kath fists flying man didn’t make contact but the one that did all kath did was grunt. Kath was trained in many forms of combat and easily dispatched them only to have another two move forward. Kath did a round house kick to a dark haired woman who went down easily. I sent the second one to the floor by aiming my energy at his knees kath then punched him square across the jaw sending him to the floor. The first wave of attackers had regained their feet and was moving in. The blonde vampire who had spoken seamed to be in control of the vampires also approached.
“Enough” she yelled “we have come for Katherine Drake in order to get your cooperation” she said directed at me. Turning back to Kath she then said “if you don’t we will kill her. Alex is being generous with what time he has allowed her, he will not harm her during the allotted time but that does not extend to your aunt.” she pointed at Kath.
Kath looked at me and back towards the blonde “do you give your word?” she asked.
“No you can not do this” I screamed holding on to arm and lashing out with my energy knocking 3 of our attackers to the floor.
“Yes I can” she turned to me removing my hands from her arm.
“No you will not” I screamed. “You do not have to do this I’ll” kath placed her hand over my mouth to stop my words from being spoken.
“Yes I have to I made a promise. Sleep” Kath and taken hold of my mind with compulsion which many vampires have at different levels of skill and Kath was very skilled. I could feel myself become tired and unable to stand I staggered and nearly fell to the floor, if Kath had not caught me. I heard her say something about a car and the sound of a door opening and shutting then darkness took over and I slept.
I awoke disorientated and stiff, I didn’t know where I was or how I got here. I sat up in the passenger side of the car. I sat in bewilderment until last nights events with Kath‘s abduction hit me bringing tears to my eyes. I looked at the clock only few hours since Kath’s kidnapping had passed. I shuffled into the driver’s seat and started the car. The only problem was that I didn’t know where or have anywhere to go. I sat leaned my head down on the steering wheel feeling lost, alone and to be honest bloody frightened. Alex had kept his word and not harmed me but he had still taken my aunt away, and if I was honest with myself I didn’t really expect to see her again I believed that he was going to kill her eventually or she him if she ever got the opportunity.
I put the car in gear and drove home to find Raul sat in his Mercedes on our drive. I got out of Kath’s slamming the door not even bothering to lock it and made my way up towards the house. Raul just stood there and watched my approach. I stood in front of him and looked up
“What do you want?” anger clouding my common sense.
“I came to see how you are” he replies.
“Well as you can see I’m fine now you can leave” I informed him and carried on towards the house.
“Where’s kath?” this stopped me in my tracks. I turned back to face him and could see genuine concern which stopped me from giving him a sarcastic reply.
“They have taken her as a guaranty until I’m ready to cooperate” I told him and continued on my way. I could hear him follow me and left the door open so he could come in. I threw myself onto the sofa and closed my eyes my head full heartache and tiredness. My god did I feel tired.
“I felt movement the side of me and opened an eye to see that Raul had sat down next to me I closed it and leaned back. It was uncomfortably silent but I refused to break it.
“what happened?” he asked again, not wanting another argument I told him all about what had happened he asked a few questions but remained silent so I could tell him. Throughout my narrative I had kept my eyes shut now I had finished I open them and looked at Raul. Who just looked back at me? I felt uncomfortable under his gaze and stood to put some space between us.
“You should have told Joshua” he finally said,
I didn’t comment I just stood there. He stood and came back into my personal space.
“It’s your fault” he said he also sounded broken. I was completely taken aback. Raul had always seamed so controlled and humorous in the few weeks that I had known him.
“What is” I asked him.
“She gone” was his reply.
“What’s it to you?” I asked then it dawned on me. All the chatting the silences when I had interrupted them. The stupid late night TV they both loved and plus what ever else had been going on whilst I wasn’t there.
“She’s the one for you isn’t she” I probed to get a slight nod in answer. I took him in my arms and just held him. In all this mess I had not consider anyone else and the effect it had on them. Raul and Kath life together, Joshua’s threats to his coven and all the people that relied on him, or his heart. I had begged to be able to trust him but had not shown or given him my trust. Alex the sick twisted bastard was going to kill me anyway and the sooner I accept that the better. I pulled away from Raul.
“Is it too late?” I asked him.
“For what?” he asked with a frown not sure what I was asking.
“To speak to Joshua” he looked at me and thought about his answer before giving it.
“If anyone else was to have asked me that I would have said no” he paused before he spoke again “but I think he may listen because its you”
“I don’t get it” I was confused.
“Since yesterday he has been worse tempered than usual. Silent and withdrawn even more than he usually is, he is basically not himself.”
“So”
“So I have known him along time and I have never seen him this bothered about anything or anyone” he pointed at me.
“I believe he is fighting it but even with out Kath’s disappearance I don’t think it would have been that long before he would have come back to you” he said.
I was completely taken aback.
“I know there was a physical attraction but I thought the man or should I say vampire hated me” I said shocked.
“No I believe it was just the opposite even though he is a hard uncaring bastard towards you”
“Shit shit shit” I muttered. “What am I to do now? Bloody hell it’s a mess.”
“let me make a phone call” Raul pulled his mobile phone out of his pocket, after a few seconds Raul began to talk to someone but not in English so I couldn’t understand what was being said. A few seconds later the phone call had ended.
“What language was that?” I asked him.
“Russian.”
“Man of many talents I see” making him smile even if only briefly.
“Let’s go” he said tugging at me.
“Wait” I said pulling back and using my energy to push him away. He looked back at me a little surprised but stopped trying to pull me along. “Tell me where we are going” I said wanting no argument.
“We are going to Joshua’s head quarters or office if you like.” he said sighing taking hold of my arm again.
“I wish people would stop man handling me if it’s not in the good way” I moaned but didn’t push him off. This earned me another smile from him.
“Will he see me?”
“I honestly don’t know” was all he said as we got into his car.
“So why even go” I was really nervous about confronting him even if he wanted to see me on some level.
“Preparing him will do no good for you or for me, I may be punished for this yet I have risked much to help you.” he pulled out of the driveway and headed to the heart of the city.
We travelled for about 45 minutes listening to a 80s radio station, every now and then Raul would burst into song he didn’t actually have a bad voice.
“So what does Joshua do for a day job, I mean I know he has property and is the coven leader but what else does he do” I turned down the radio so I could hear Raul.
“He is a barrister and a very good one” he said glancing at me for my reaction.
I was literally rendered speech less. Raul was laughing at my obverse shock.
“It makes sense really the type of man he is” I said when I managed to get my voice working again, Raul smiled in response. We pulled up to an office block very high class and expensive by the look of it. Very modern looking a lot of glass and reflected surfaces. I looked up and the name Palmer and co was above the entrance.
We walked into the reception area, I took a seat as Raul spoke to the women behind the desk, smartly dress very stylish. She had red hair nearly the same shade as mine; she kept throwing worried looks at me whilst she spoke to Raul which after the third of fourth time I waved back. She turned away purposely ignoring me as she made a very brief phone call and replaced the receive with a wince. I rolled my eyes at the childish antics, Raul came back to me. He gave me a stern look which I interpreted as behave, I smiled and winked as I stood to meet him.
“He has agreed to see you” he said. My nerves kicked in and I felt slightly sick well to be honest really sick. It must have shown as he rubbed down both my arm with his hands as if trying to warm me up. “I have been told to take you to his office but not to come in with you”
“Why can’t you come in with me?” I pleaded.
“I like you but he is my master and my friend, he has given me an order and I will do as I have been told he has earned my loyalty and obedience you have yet to earn it ” he said all serious and none of his usual humour.
“Let’s go” I said. We walked down a long corridor very plain and almost bare except doorways and ornaments in small alcoves on either side it reminded me of a museum display. We got in the lift and went up 2 floors and exited to a similar corridor.
“How do you remember where to go it all looks the same” I whispered, I didn’t even know why I was whispering. He smiled but didn’t comment. We was fast approaching a set of double doors this must have been our destination, there was basically no where else to go. Raul knocked on the door and we stood there waiting for a reply. The next moment a very tall and skinney blonde super model looking women open the door and stepped through. Seeing us there she stroked her hands down her imaginary creases in her skirt, and held out her hand to me.
“It’s nice to meet you, I’m Rochelle, Josh’s personal assistant and when I say personal I mean very personal assistant” she practualy purred when dropping that little bit of information on my lap. A pure jolt of jealousy passed through me, I looked back at her and held my head high before I answered her.
“His marvellous in the sack don’t you think?” I purred back causing her huge fake smile to disappear in a flash.
“His mine” she snapped.
“If that was so why even bother to warn me off?” I asked sweetly. “Worried?” I pressed.
“Not at all” she denined. “Just wanted to let you know how things stood.”
“Well thank you for that do you want me tell Joshua that too?” I asked.
She then lunged at me I gathered my energy and released it holding my attacker in place. I leaned closer into her personal space “next time you attack me know what your dealing with” I realeased her not to gentally causing her to stumble. “I have a few really bad days and have not got time or patients to deal with jumped up sectaries like you” I hissed.
“Bitch” she hissed.
“Glad you realised that” I raised her above the floor; she started to scream in panic.
“Let her go” that voice I would have recognised anywhere and it didn’t sound friendly. I dropped her to the floor again causing her to grunt in pain as she landed. I turned to face Joshua’s grim face.
“What will be all Rochelle thank you” he smoothly said as he held the door open for me to precede him. Rochelle got up off the floor and if I’m honest quiet elegantly and giving him her best smile “master” and then walked off not before throwing me daggers with her eyes. Thank god she wasn’t a witch I’d have sworn she had just cursed me. Joshua office was minimalist simple pieces of well built furniture but the room was dominated by his large desk and window that looked out on to a huge park area. I walked over to look at the view and imagined how peaceful it was. The sky had started to lighten it looked beautiful.
“Like the view?” he asked. I hadn’t heard him approach me.
“Beautiful” I sighed.
He walked around me blocking the view forcing me to step back. I stood there just looking at him he looked tired. I started to raise his hand to stroke his cheek but stopped it knowing it would not have been welcome.
“I hear you wish to speak with me Miss Drake” he said coldly.
“Yes” I replied and started my usual pacing that I do when I’m nervous or upset. “Kath has been taken”
“What is this to do with me?” he took a seat at his desk not taking his eyes off me.
“I asked you if I could trust you, but at the same time I didn’t offer you mine and for that I’m sorry” I looked at him and his expression hadn’t changed so I continued on “I already told you that I had seen my brother Alex” he nodded his head in agreement.
“And that he had given me a choice”
“Please hurry get to your point Miss Drake the dawn approaches” he snapped.
I swallowed nervously forcing myself to continue “he wants me to help him with his plans by my own choice or by force and he doesn’t care which”
“Am I supposed to care?” he asked walking around heading to the door.
“He wants me as a slave or dead” I screamed facing off to him. “He promised to leave Kath alone but has taken her anyway to make sure I go to him when the time is up. He said not to say anything or he would kill me, her” tears now ran down my face.
Joshua stood ridged his back to me I didn’t know what to do, so I took a chance and placed my hand on his shoulder and at the touch he swung round and gathered me into his arms and held me. I relaxed in his embrace and let his warmth flow into me, I felt safe for the first time since the last time he held me.
“I’m sorry” I muttered into his chest, he moved his hands to my arms and gentally pushed me away from him. I immediately felt the loss of his warmth now that he had moved me away from him.
“Do you know what his plans are?” he quietly asked but at that the phone rang. Joshua moved to answer it and barked a hello down the receiver. He stood and listened for a few minutes before replacing it. His whole body had tensed again and his hard eyes had locked on to me.
“My home has been destroyed; it has been burnt to the ground in alleged gas explosion but some how I don’t think that’s accurate”
“no I don’t think it is” I agreed as I moved towards him, he looked threatening again but I continued until this time I had wrapped my arms around him and held him to me. He stayed stiff for a brief second then like I had a moment earlier relaxed in to me. “I am really sorry Joshua” I don’t know how long we stayed like that for but it felt wonderful.
He moved away from me and took his seat back behind his desk unsure what to do I just stood there. “Come here” he crocked his finger at me. I walked over to him and he pulled me onto his lap. I sat and put my head on his shoulder and closed my eyes. He didn’t touch me in any other way but he probably like me just needed the closeness.


Chapter 9


I must have slept when I opened my eyes the room was light and secondly I was lying on a huge bed. I stretched and sat up and took a look at my surroundings again very minimalist but splashed with deep reds and blacks bedding and artwork to contrast against the bareness of the walls. I looked to my left and spotted Joshua asleep next to me; he looked so peaceful I ran my fingers lightly through his hair feeling the softness through my fingers. He moved his head slightly to one side then opened, his eyes and they meet mine and I leaned forward and pressed my lips to his.
He didn’t exactly kiss me back but didn’t push me away either. I deepened the kiss using my tongue to get him to open his mouth for me, I felt him push back at me he was kissing me back. My god was it a kiss it wasn’t rushed or full of passion like last time it was slow, it was soft it was perfect. He cupped my cheek in his hand and ran his thumb down my jaw line whist holding me to him. His other hand had moved to my hip and pulled me so I lay flush against him. My body tingled at every point we touched. I may not be experienced but I know what I want and I wanted this vampire. He hooked his hand behind my knee lifting it up to come round his hip then rolled so he was above me. He pulled back and framed my face with his hands before trailing kisses down my jaw to my neck where I felt his teeth scrape along the path that I knew my main veins were.
He moved away from my neck and took a good hold of the bottom of my jumper and pulled it over my head and casting it on the floor. His kisses continued on there journey down my breast to briefly lavish attention to each nipple causing them to harden. He carried on down my body across my stomach he got to my jeans which he undid the button and pulled them down my legs only to discard them on the floor along with my jumper. He moved back up my body to kiss me again as his hand roamed over by body lingering briefly at my breasts. I was naked all but my matching bra and thong, I pulled at his shirt buttons trying to undo them I must not have been doing it quick enough as he tore it off himself popping buttons, before I could even think about his trousers using his vampire speed he had also taken them off and they to was on the floor with the rest of our clothing. Oh and one last thing this vamp doesn’t wear underwear he was completely naked and was a vision of perfection.
His body fit perfectly to mine I could feel his erection pressing into my hip, his mouth had fastened on to my breast again I could feel him licking and nipping at my nipple as he toyed with it using his mouth. My centre was pulsing with need, I couldn’t bare it any longer I grabbed a handful of his hair and pulled him up to me, and I kissed him again hard whist my other hand reached between us and fastened on to his member. He hissed into my mouth at my touch but not of pain but pure pleasure.
I tightened my hand causing him to groan this time and abandon kissing me. His eyes closed briefly before focusing on me. I moved my hand and stroked him causing shudders to ripple through his body. He didn’t allow this for long before he too had reached between us and ripped my thong off leaving me exposed I tensed for a second as I had never been exposed like this before, feeling my sudden doubt he pulled back and waited for me to decide, knowing I would regret if I didn’t because I was scared or that he might reject me later breaking my heart, but at least I would have had this one time with him. I took his hand opened my legs and placed his hand at my core mouthing please at him.
Taking that as a signal he stroked my core with his finger causing me to moan and loosen my hold of his erection. A groaned escaped again as he stroked me again. He then kissed me as he slipped a finger inside me I arched off the bed at the sudden invasion of my body but it felt wonderful, until he pulled back and inserted a second finger but staying still so I could adjust to the new feeling and it felt glorious. I then felt this urgent need to move which I did Joshua moved his finger stroking and touching as I rode his hand it didn’t take long for my orgasm to hit I screamed his name as energy exploded from me as I shattered. I eventually got hold of myself and noted that the chair at the end of the bed had shattered the wall was cracked and the head bored was completely broken. I turned to look a Joshua who had also looked at the damage turned then to look back at me a huge smile on his face.
“Sorry” I murmured.
“We aren’t finished yet” and kissed me hard before I could respond. His hand continued to toy with me bringing me back to nearly the earth shattering point again he moved to cover me fully fitting snugly between my thighs. I could fell the head of his erection at my entrance. “Are you sure” he asked holding his self ridged. I answered by moving my hips and taking him into my body he then slammed into me pain rippled through me at the taking of my innocence he stilled as he gave me time to adjust to the feel of him buried inside of me, the pain quickly melted away.
The pain soon gave way to pleasure as I tightened my core around him causing him to groan but he didn’t move, I rocked my hip which made him grit his teeth, he started to moved gently in and out of my body but it didn’t feel right as he slide out to push back in I pushed my hip up to meet him more forcefully causing us both to moan he still tried to be gentle with me but each time we meet I pushed back at him “you never wait” he hissed into my ear then thrust into me going deeper than before. He slammed into me over and over again, I could feel my second orgasm coming as I felt him harden and swell with in me now this felt right. I realised at this point sex with Joshua would never be kind or gentle but would be passionate, animalistic, rough. He lowered his head and bite down into my neck and this sent me over the edge pleasure and ecstasy cascade over me. As we both come together. I felt my blood flood into him and I held on tight as a third explosion hit me at that I blacked out.
I woke for the second time in the same room feeling sore in places I never knew existed, but I felt relaxed and content. I sat up and this time I was alone my heart sank but I knew it was a possibility that he would do this. I dressed quickly and tied my hair in a hasty knot I found an ensuit and washed my face and brushed my teeth using my finger and toothpaste. I looked at myself in the mirror and I positively glowed but the eyes said differently and I knew I was waiting for Joshua attitude to revert back to his cold calculating self. I was determined to be grown up about it and I wouldn’t cry, beg or plead with him if he wanted me gone I would go. If it was a one off so be it.
I looked at the bedroom and noticed the complete destruction the furniture had all looked like it had been smashed, the mirrors on the wardrobes and walls where all broken adding up to about 42 years of bad luck. The headboard was in bits and the beds linen was in ribbons. I looked not believing what I was seeing. I moved position and fidgeted my god I was sore but in a good way. I pulled myself away took a deep breath pulled my shoulder back and went through the only other door. As I stepped through I noticed Joshua stood with his back to me again on the phone and the blonde bimbo, Rochelle from earlier who had warned me away.
She heard me and turned to look at me, she leaped of the chair straight at me. I wasn’t in the mood I lifted my hand released my energy and stopped her in mid jump. She hissed and spit at me using a few choice words at me; I brought my hand down and slammed her to the floor holding her there. Joshua had turned to watch.
“Down bitch” and walked over towards Joshua who just watched a slight smile evident on his lips. As I got in touching distance he grabbed me pulling me up against him he kissed me long and hard we pulled apart when we heard the beautiful Rochelle getting more distressed.
“Please release my assistant Sarah” he asked. I did just that and she shot to her feet and faced up to me again I readied myself to take hold of her again but Joshua stepped in front of me.
“You are not to attack my life mate.” she stopped dead in her tracks looking astonished at me and then at Joshua. “If you wish to keep your position you will act according” he said in a no nonsense tone. “I suggest you leave me for now once you are ready to rejoin us then you may return” she opened her mouth to protest “it was not a request” he added. With that Rochelle practically ran from the room.
Once she left the room I stepped back out of his embrace he remained still with a slight frown.
“Hello” I was nervous of him even after all we had shared.
“Hello” he replied the smile was creeping back. I stood there not sure what to do I had never done the morning after fantastic sex thing because I had never had sex. He however saved me and waved me down to the chair and he sat beside me.
“How are you” he asked.
“sore” I said before I could control what came out of my mouth, he looked a little guilty but I quickly reassured him “in a good way, last night was more than I could ever have imagined” I quickly added. He lent down and gave me a feather light kiss but pulled away as quickly.
“It really shouldn’t have happened” he said and my heart nearly shattered “I have an unknown enemy who is threatening my coven, my home has been destroyed. I told you I didn’t want a relationship with anyone”
I stood stepping away, tears threatened to spill over I needed to get out of here “I understand” I whispered and fled towards the door. I came to an abrupt stop I felt Joshua’s power all over me, but this time I pushed back. I felt it give a little and I felt him get nearer to me physically. My heart screamed and I pushed knocking the barrier straight out of his grasp, the back lash hit Joshua as I dropped to the floor, it felt like my whole body had been shocked.
“Sarah please stop let me finish” pain from the backlash sounded clearly in his voice, I stopped only because I didn’t know what else to do and the fact that the backlash had also affected me and my body was vibrating with pain. He knelt in front of me and took my face in his hands and looked me directly in the eye. “Just because I didn’t want these things doesn’t mean I won’t try”
“What are you saying?” I ask.
“I am willing to see where this leads” he replied stealing a kiss. I relax enough to allow him to enfold me in his arms until I remember what else I had to tell him, he must have felt me stiffen in his arms as he moved away and looked at me and frowned. I sat back on my heels to put some space between us.
“they took Kath” I said as he nodded in agreement “and recently my brother has got back in touch with me” he remained silent as I told him about his plans to take over Josh’s coven and that Alex was responsible for all the attacks. Josh was silent but I could see the anger in his eyes as he watched me. I took a breath before I continued,
“He knows how to take my abilities from me, he wants me to cooperate but I think he’ll kill me eventually anyway. He threatened Kath, he threatened my life, and he gave me a deadline and its up in about 4 days” I finished and sat in silence. Josh didn’t say anything I could see the fury and disappointment flicker across his usual stony face. He stood walked over to the door and shout for Raul. He slammed the door and looked down at me as I was still kneeling on the floor.
Before I could speak Raul had entered taking in the situation with a glance.
“Raul take her home” he barked.
“What!” I yelled as I shot to my feet. “You’re just going to dismiss as if I’m nothing?”
“You kept vital information from me, I am responsible for many vampires and humans and yet you let me waste time with you when we are under threat” his voice was steady and even.
“So that’s it?” I asked him.
Josh rushed as me “you are lucky that is all I am doing. I would punish anyone else severally for withholding information from me” he whispered in my ear. He then allowed his fangs to descend and grabbed my arms holding me in place. He looked at my neck focusing on Alex’s bite. He pulled me even closer and lowered his head. I held myself as still as possible as not to provoke him, I felt his tongue on my neck then the sting of his bite, I expected it to hurt like when my brother had bittern me, not to be pleasurable again. To be honest I don’t think that it was his intension I think he meant to hurt me. I felt his grip loosen and him readying to pull away, I lifted my arms holding his head to my neck and his body closer to me with the other. I felt him tighten his hold around me as I became weaker; Josh was the only thing that was keeping me on my feet. His teeth left my neck and I felt his tongue sweep across the puncher marks. He scooped me up and carried me to his sofa to lay me down. Once he put me down he hovered over me looking into my eyes which I was having trouble keeping open.
“What about us?” I whispered and tried to lift my hand to touch him but Josh’s feeding had left me to weak to do even that.
“I was willing to try I was” he said “you have hidden information from me that has caused me to endanger my coven. I cannot trust you Sarah.” he said sadly stroking my cheek. “I acknowledge you as my life mate and we are bonded by your blood and our body” he stood “but I will not finish the bond you are free to live your life and marry, have children, this omission of yours has changed everything endangered my family, I‘m not willing to pay your asking price or anyone else‘s” at that he left and my heart broke. Josh left the room; as soon as I heard the door slam I allowed the tears to run freely. Raul came into my line of sight and held my face in his hand reminding me of how gently Joshua had held me moments earlier causing me to turn my head away from him.
“I’m sorry Sarah but we need to get you out of here.” he said a bent to lift me up into his arms cradling me against his chest. I closed my eyes and let Raul take my body home, my mind closed down and my heart remained with him.


Chapter 10


I woke in my own room I must have slept the whole way home as I don’t remember the journey back apart from voices and Raul strapping me into a car but nothing else. I still had on my clothes so I quickly showered and dressed in simple jeans and t-shirt I made my way down stairs with a heavy heart. I threw myself into an arm chair and went over everything from yesterday rerunning it, doing things differently but it bought me no peace. Tears slowly tracked down my face as my heart ached for something I could never have.
“Sarah” I heard said from the door way when I turned to look it was Raul.
“What you doing here?” I asked.
“I was owed some time off” he came and took the seat opposite me.
“Now cut the bullshit and tell me why you’re here” I replied.
“I knew you wouldn’t believe that and I told him so” he sighed with a small tired smile across his lips.
“Josh sent you” I stated.
“No. but I asked him if I could stay with you and he said yes” shrugging his huge shoulders.
“Why?” I asked I was confused.
“Do you remember the conversation we had about mates” he asked and I nodded.
“Its never as straight forward as we like to believe it to be. You believed that Kath was mine” I nodded again agreement unsure where this was leading.
“So did I but I now know I was picking up on your emotions, when I released that you and Joshua had been intimate I shouldn’t have not cared but I was jealous. I wanted to rip his head off.” his complete focus was on me.
“I thought life mates were fate, destiny meant to be” I asked.
“It is with a true pair” he sighed and sat forward to make his point. “Kath is not my true mate she feels like it because she shares your blood and I’m drawn to her. But my blood sings to yours”
“You’re wrong.”
“No I’m not” he said simply.
“No no no no” my voiced raised at every negative. Raul rushed to me and fastened his lips to mine and cut off my protests. As far a kisses went it was good firm but gentle. It didn’t hold any of the passion and belonging that I had felt when I had made love to Joshua. I pushed him away but it was like moving a brick wall, I concentrated and thread a little of my kinetic power through my arms and pushed again using it to added more power to my push. Raul was moved back this time and let me go to sit back opposite me.
“No” I said again more firmly “Joshua touch is completely different to yours he is all consuming, my power goes ballistic when his near, I need him like I need to breath” he started to protest “you” I continued “are safe protective and my friend. I can think when as you kiss me I could still control myself, and all I thought about was him.” I sat back in the chair and kept my eyes locked on him.
To my shock he leaned back and smiled back at me “I told him that to” he paused and turned serious again. “Joshua has been alone along time, he doesn’t trust easily. You have endanger all that he holds dear and everyone that relies on him through selfish actions” I opened my mouth to protest but kept silent as the truth sunk in. “ what has made it worse Sarah” Raul said regaining my attention. “Is that you and he are bonded he now is shut off to other options because he has taken your body and blood to complete the bond you need to take his. You can choose another if you so wished”
“So what the bloody hell was you doing just” I asked out raged, “with the kissing and stuff?”
“He is stubborn as hell. But he wants you happy and asked me to for fill that role and I owed it to him to at least try.”
“By finding me a replacement” I yelled.
“What I said is true I do feel a connection to you. But knowing what has happened between you both I would never act on it and I’m happy with Kath.” he finished and sat back waiting for me to catch up.
“ thank you I think.” we both fell into a comfortable silence tears had run down my cheek without even my knowledge until Raul handed me a hand chief that he mysteriously appeared from his person, I murmured my thanks and wiped the traitors away.
“If it’s any help personally I don’t think he will be able to stay away from you for this his angry and rightly so.” he said softly. I chose not to answer and remained silent as another treacherous tear spilled out.
I curled up and slept closed my eyes and slept. I woke up not long it was still dark out. Raul was still here I could hear him in the kitchen, I looked down at myself and noticed that I had a blanket over me I smiled and Raul‘s kindness. I swung my legs round and sat up. I knew what I had to do. I threw the blanket off and ran to my room washed and dressed putting on a tight black dress floor length that showed off all my curves. I tied my hair up leaving wisps to frame my face.
I came back down and faced Raul. “Where you going?” he asked as I noticed his look of appreciation at what I was wearing.
“I going to see my brother” I announced.
“Over my dead body” he growled at me.
I had expected this response from him “I have to make this right Raul, I’m sure you can appreciate that”
“I do Sarah I do, but you going there is suicide. He will kill you” he pleaded.
“I know but I have to save my aunt. I have to make it right with Joshua. If I had done what my aunt had wanted years ago and learned my craft this would not be happening”
“You don’t know that” he stated.
“I know it in here” I said as I placed my hand on my heart “and here” as I touched my temple. “I’m sorry.” I added.
“For what?” he asked a look of confusion on his face.
“For this” I used the same technique that I use to gathered my power but instead of gathering my own I took Raul’s power and strength into myself. I felt it rush through me making me go slightly dizzy as he slumped to his knees.
“Don’t do this” he forced from between tightly clenched lips. I knelt down and placed a kiss on his lips. “You will be fine soon but I cannot let you stop me I need to do this” I said as I stood. Raul let go and collapsed to the floor. I searched his pockets and took his keys. I ran out the door and jumped into Raul’s car and headed toward my brother, aunt and my possible death. What my brother didn’t know was that I am going to take him to the grave with me.


Chapter 11


I drove like a maniac toward my brother office block that I had visited him at before. I pulled up threw myself out of the car and up toward the front door of the offices. I didn’t stop and nearly fell through the door to reach my brother. In the back of my head I was also concerned about how long I would have before Raul was going to come after me or worse go to Joshua. The same women sat at the desk.
“Is he here?” I demanded.
“You brother Ms Drake is at the club.” she informed me. To say I was not pleased is putting it mildly; every expletive came out of my mouth that I could possibly think of as the perfect receptionist looked on indifferently at my rant.
“could you call him and telling I’m coming into see him tell him I give up, tell him he wins” I managed to say the truth of the statement hit me and I put my head on the counter while I waited for her to make the call.
“I don’t think so Ms Drake” she said softly. I lifted my head to look her in the eye and saw hope shining back at me “your plan wont work if you give him that warning” she added. I looked at her and opened my lips to ask her but she cut me off and tapped her head “I am a little physic I can read people pick up feeling and sometimes thoughts.”
“Are you going to tell him” I ask keeping eye contact.
“No I’m not” she replied “he needs to stop he will eventually kill us all at least with Mr Palmer we stand a chance, Alex needs to die.” she added.
“I know he does” I said softly as I put my head back on the counter.
I felt the receptionist place her hand under my chin and lift my head to meet her gaze. “I’m sorry you feel that you need to end your life also”
“There is no other way it has to be done” I whispered.
“He loves you, you know” she whispered back to me.
“Alex has never loved me he resents me” I shot back at her.
She shuck her head in denial “not him Palmer.”
“I doubt that very much he thinks I betrayed him, and in a way I know I have” I snorted. She didn’t reply but a soft smile stole across her lips.
“What’s your name?” I ask her.
“Trinity”
“I think we could have been friends” I picked myself up stepped back gave a smile and small wave and left.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *


Trinity looked on and smiled to herself as Sarah walked out into the night to find her brother. She agreed that they could have been friends when a wave of precognition hit her making her slightly unsteady causing her sit down heavily on her chair. Her head cleared “oh Sarah we will be friends” she chuckled to herself as she picked her handbag up and went home.


* * * * * * * * * * * * * *


I dragged myself back into Raul’s car and headed over towards Alex’s club the roads were quiet and it didn’t take long. I pulled up a the entrance and abandoned the car with the keys in the ignition and it still running but lets face it it’s not like I’m going to need it later on. Dean was on the door again and a look of pure shock passed briefly over his face followed by regret. He said my name as I passed him I stood in front of him and took hold of his hand and like I did with Raul I drain his powers and strength containing it with in myself, I was dizzy for a second but I felt so alive. I knew now what I had to do. I made my way through the club passing gyrating bodies and drunken party goers. Every witch, vampire I passed as I had done with Raul and then again with Dean I lay my hand on them and took their power into my self.
As I reached the stairs that led up to the VIP area where the blood letting and sex was I was buzzing and felt more than a little drunk. A tall blonde headed female vampire stood at the stairs baring my entrance. “Hi there” I said slightly slurring my words. “I’ve come to see the big cheese” I said with a little giggle sneaking out adding to the drunken affect.
“No trollops allowed” she said giving me a little push away from her. This sobered me up and I felt my anger rising making all the power that I had absorbed pulse through my body waiting for release.
“I am not a trollop I am your lord and masters long lost sister. Sarah you may have heard of me” I used a tiny portion of my power and mentally pushed her to her knees. I placed my hand on her head absorbed her powers into myself. I lifted my hand as she collapsed on to the floor.
I continued up the stairs and headed in. as like before there where couples and groups writhing and coupling all around me in booths in public in fact it felt more sensual this time. I gave myself a mental shake to rid myself of these thoughts these stolen powers were starting to affect me. I continued on absorbing all the supernatural creature power into myself. I left a trail of passed out partiers behind me I felt like I was floating. The hairs on my body where on end I looked down at my skin on my arms and I was glowing the air around me felt like static.
I approached the two bouncers that lead to my brother’s office he was inside I could feel him beyond the door. I threw my arms out and smashed the two huge vampires into the wall and took them with in myself I felt as if I was going to explode. I pushed the door open and was welcomed within.


Chapter 12


“Welcome dear sister” Alex said as he wiped blood that had spilled down his chin. I looked down and there was a young teenage girl lay on the floor dead by the look of the nasty tear on her throat clearly Alex’s latest victim.
I clamped down on myself trying not to give the game away “hello Alex” I replied.
“What brings you here you have a few days grace I believe” he went to sit by behind the desk motioning me to sit opposite him.
“Where’s Kath” I asked him.
“That’s more like it “he smiled. “At least you don’t disappoint.”
“Set her free. I’ve come to surrender to you” I held my hands out to him in surrender. His face was frozen staring at me. He picked the phone and barked a few instruction in the receiver before turning back to me,
“Why?” he asked.
“I have nothing left you have taken everyone and thing from me and I will not be a slave, you want my power then take it” I shouted standing to lean towards him to make my point.
A panel in the wall behind him opened and Kath was dragged out barely conscious by another one of Alex’s body guards. I moved to go to her and Alex blocked my path.
“Move” I yelled wanting to use my stolen powers to throw him out of my way. I reached out but he moved back out of my reach.
“I know you left a trail of unconscious victims behind you dear sister I don’t know what you have been doing but keep your distance” his body guard wrenched Kath and held a knife to her throat. This held me in place and forced me to step back.
“I only want her safe, they wouldn’t let me see you” a tear trailed down my cheek.
“Kneel down Sarah and face the door” Alex instructed. I did so with reluctance.
“What u going to do dear brother” I snarled but keeping my face forward I could feel him move to stand behind me. The power inside me was now pulsing and I was difficulty to remain still my body felt ready to set alight.
“Keep your hand in front of you” he instructed. The body guard came round and bound my hand with metal handcuffs and then disappeared out of sight. I still could sense him in the room stationing himself with Kath again.
“What now” I asked him again.
I felt a light brush of his hand on my neck and his breath at my ear “I’m going to drain you dry” he whispered to me “all inner power is connected to blood that’s why vampires don’t age and grow stronger. Every time we drink from humans, witches even each other we steal a little of this power. If I drain your blood it will pass to me”
“Does that work for all witches you could have taken anyone” I asked him as I shivered from his ghostly touches to my neck.
“Only family member can do this and how often do you get vampires with living family members that just so happen to be a strong witch. Not often that’s why nobody knows” at that he tilted my head to gain better assess to my vein.
I relaxed and held still allowing Alex to latch onto me with his bite. I felt his fangs pierce my skin and the first pull of blood he wasn’t gentle there was a lot of pain. He drank for a few moments and moved back “I can taste the power you hold its intoxicating sister” he bite harder in my neck causing me to cry out in pain.
I could hear commotion happening out side of the office followed by the swing and crashing of the door being violently opened. I looked up to see Joshua closely shadowed by Raul and other members of his coven. Our eyes met and held. I closed my eyes and threw up a wall to stop them from entering the room. I could see and feel Joshua trying to brake down my barrier but because of all the stolen power I was too strong even for him to over come.
Alex was making noises of appreciation as he steadily drank from me. My eyes met Joshua’s again.
“Don’t do this Sarah” pain laced his voice.
“There is no other way” I mouthed back “I love you and I’m sorry” I shut my eyes and concentrated on the connection between myself and Alex. I could hear Joshua and Raul frantic cries to me but I ignored them.
I feed my stolen power into Alex who at the jolt drank deeper from my vein. I poured everything I had into him. This sent him flying from me I felt dizzy from the blood loss and power drain. Alex was rolling around the floor in pain as the power swept through his system. His bodyguard had approached leaving Kath slumped on the floor. I heard Joshua’s frantic warning and grabbed the bodyguards leg draining him once he’d collapsed I let go and grabbed my brother again to continue the power transfer.
Alex screamed as I fed the power into his body his vampire body was unable to contain what I was giving him but it still was not enough. I crawled nearer to Alex so I could reach his head. I pulled my self up and straddled his chest so I could look down on him.
“What have you done” he ground out between spasms.
“What was needed to be done, what you asked me to do.” I replied softly leaning down to his forehead “even with your vampire body you are not able to control my power.” I looked over my shoulder and saw the look of anguish on Joshua’s face I wanted to stop to go to him to try and make him love me. But I held strong. I could feel my body and mind letting go. I was dying but I knew from the beginning I was coming here to die.
“I love you” I said intending it for Joshua. I knew he understood as I heard him begin to shout my name again and bang on the barrier that I had erected. I placed my hand on to his chest and thrust my reaming energy into him. Alex screamed and I felt the vibration pass through him as I slid of him to collapse on to the floor beside him.
I turned my head to the right to look at Alex there was blood coming out of his ears, nose and eyes; it was like he had exploded on the inside, but he was still alive I don’t know how I knew but my brother still lived. I looked left and saw Alex’s bodyguards rush in as well as Joshua and Raul, but the fighting was done. The guards scooped Alex’s limp form up and carry him out as Joshua did the same for me. I managed to turn my head to look for Kath I quickly scanned the room and saw a pile of ash where I last saw her. I just stared as I was cradled in Joshua’s arm unbelieving. Then the world turn to darkness and I slipped to my death.


Chapter 13


So I thought as I woke up in my own bed very tired, and bloody sore. I briefly thought that if I was dead shouldn’t I really be hurting this much. I looked round realising where I was, clearly not dead and at home but how. I looked at the window it was still pitch black. I threw back the cover and tried to stand. I crumpled to the floor as I was so weak I was unable to hold my own weight. This caused noises on the stairs followed by my Joshua charging into my room.
“Hi” I said as a greeting.
“Hi yourself” he said as he came over and lifted me easily back into my bed.
“How long I been out and why aren’t I dead” I ask.
He gave a huge sigh and settled me back into bed and sat on the edge. “Your attempt to kill Alex failed and you nearly ended up ending your own life” he said worry laced his voice.
“I know that’s what I set out to do I had no choice” I sobbed.
“No one is blaming you, I don’t blame you” he added.
“How long have I been out for” I asked again.
“2 weeks and 4 days” he told me.
“Really” I was impressed.
“Have I lost my powers” I asked.
“No love you are still as you were just new and improved” he said seriously.
“What do u mean” I growled at him. “Did I just growl?” I asked. Basically Joshua and who knows who else chose to save me and the only way to do that was to turn me so now I am a god dam vampire. Secondly all the vampire’s I stole the powers from have recovered but slightly diminished but Joshua said that will return once they have aged a little. So basically all the power that I stole I had held on to for to long, I then fed it into Alex who was not strong enough to hold it needed a new host and chose me being the nearest mage. I don’t feel this new power but I sense its there.
“How’s Raul” I then ask.
“You mean Kath” he corrects. I shut my eyes as the pain flashes through me “Kath has passed as you know” he informs me.
“I’m tired” I tell him as I lie down to settle back into bed. “The pain of losing Kath was too much that I wanted to hide even from myself. He surprised me by kissed my head and leaving only to promising to check in with me later as I would soon need to feed. I closed my eyes and let the darkness take me away again.

I woke again and felt warm and safe. I wriggled down further into my bed and felt arms wrap around my waist and pull me closer to a firm male body. My whole body went stiff not knowing who I was sharing my bed with. I tried to turn to look at the male in question.
“Sleep Sarah you need the rest” my companion said. My heart fluttered as I would have recognised that voice anywhere.
“Joshua” I state “what you doing here?” I ask him.
“I was sleeping” was his very annoying answer that made me turn to face him which he let me do this time but still pulled me close. He looked relaxed and at the same time tired.
“What are you doing here?” I ask again not believing he was with me.
“I was sleeping Sarah next to my life mate” he followed his statement by giving me a gentle kiss on lips. He went to pull back but I flung my arms round him and pressed my lips firmly against his making the kiss now full of passion. He moved and covered me pressing my body down into the mattress with his own weight that felt wonderful against me. I felt his arousal against my stomach but didn’t want to push him just in case he left me. He pulled back and I let him this time but our bodies remained close. He rested his head against mine and whispered my name.
“Mr Palmer” I whispered back to him causing a growl to rumble through his chest, he kissed me again but with more passion. I tried to press closer trying to pull him even closer to me, but again he moved away this time taking his weight off me to lie at my side.
“You make me forget myself Sarah” he said still not looking at me.
“Is that good or a bad thing” I held my breath while I waited for the answer,
“Just then very good” he turned to look at me with a crooked smile upon his lips. “We need to talk first Sarah so please behave” he added. I didn’t like the sound of this but kept my lips sealed. Taking it as consent he spoke again.
“I turned you myself making you a member of my coven just has Kath was” he said and I nodded in understanding. “Your first feeding is immanent and we usually feed from our sires. In your case I’m offering to give up my right if you would prefer another in my place.”
I was completely shocked and it must have shown as he became very still and watched me intently.
“You didn’t want me; you said I had wasted time I had endangered everyone and then trying to make Raul offer himself to me. Why would you want to feed me? Is it revenge or punishment to get even with me?” I had started to cry and Joshua had gathered me into his arms.
“shhhh” he softly whispered to me while his hand stroked my back “I understand why you did what and why you felt you couldn’t trust me. I had opened myself up to you and then moments later you then to reveal a plot to destroy all that I had worked for I was beyond angry.”
“I’m sorry”
“I was even angrier with you for the stunt you pulled at your brother’s club. You would have died Sarah don’t you ever do that again” his voice slightly wavered as he said my name.
“it was bad enough that you had escaped Raul but to then go and try kill yourself along with that sick bastard of a brother I was worried and I realised that I wanted you and had to get to you.”
As his words sank it occurred to me “how did you know where I was and what I had planned?”
“Raul had reached me and told me about you knocking him out which may I say he is rather put out with, but I had a call that I couldn’t ignore.” he answered.
“Did she give a name?”
“No” he replied.
I thanked Trinity in my head and promised to pay my debt. I felt Joshua move beside me and my full attention returned to him. “What about us?”
“I know I want you, and my body burns for yours. I care for you enough that I want you safe and by my side but I cannot give promises of love as I don’t know if this is what this is. Sarah.” He wanted me but he didn’t know if he loved me, could I live like this I thought to myself. His voice turned cold and unfeeling as he continued “lets just take it a day at a time but be warned Sarah I don’t usually give second chances if you hide things from me again and put my house in danger again then there is no going back.”
“I understand” I looked in to his eyes and tried to convey my acceptance of his rules. He smiled leaned into kiss me, before he made contact with me a pain shot through me drawing my legs into my stomach forcing a scream out from between my lips. I heard Joshua talking to me but not understanding what he was telling me the pain last a few more moments and gradually faded leaving me exhausted in Joshua arms.
“What the hell was that?” I asked as I buried my face into his chest.
“ it’s the hunger you need blood if we starve ourselves we suffer pain as our body tries to devour its self and that’s what’s happening to you” he told me “the pain is more intense as this will be your first true feeding.” the pain started again and made my whole body cramp. I held on to Joshua to ground my self, the pain past and I could feel the sweat drip down my back and between my breasts.
“Well let’s get on with it” I managed to say once the pain had stopped.
“It’s not that simple Sarah” he said as he sat up with his back against my head board and pulled me up to settle me against him. And that’s when I noticed that he was naked which immediately had me blushing. “If you take my blood Sarah because of my earlier bites and love making you would be bound to me as I am already bound to you. That’s why we don’t feed from one another so no mistakes are made” he added once both of us were settled. Before I could answer another bout of pain shot through I leaving me even more drained than the previous one.
“What if that not what I want?” I ask.
“I would fetch you a human or another to finish the change.” he answered simply.
Again the pain hit me, there was less time between each episode and the pain was more intense.
“I will have you any way I can get you “I ground out when I was able to talk again.
Joshua put me away from him and reached for a small silver handled knife and bought it his neck, with a quick movement he cut across his neck and collar bone leaving a red trail where the knife had cut his skin. I felt my mouth stretch and realised that it was my fangs descending. I looked at him and into his eyes before taking up his offering.
“Come Sarah” he called to me before I even realised I was at his neck and had bitten him. If I’m honest I don’t remember the first few moment of my first feeding. But what I do remember was when the haze had lifted I felt Joshua underneath me and buried in me. I could hear his noises of appreciation and then rode him till we both reached completion and then I blacked out again.
A little while later I awoke tucked into my lovers arms again.
“Sleep Sarah” I heard him mutter and sigh as I turned to face him again.
“Sorry about earlier” I apologised.
He opened his eyes with a puzzled look on his face. “For the biting and the taking advantage of you” I continued and briefly glanced at the red and angry bite to his neck.
He chuckled softly to himself and pulled me back to him and closed his eyes again.
“bites are not uncommon amongst our kind that’s true but I enjoyed it Sarah, as for taking advantage sex and blood are closely linked if I didn’t want that to have happened I would not have allowed it.” he kissed my head “as my life mate your allowed a little taking advantage of me when the need arises and believe me it does” he moved to cover me and we made love slowly this tome enjoying our time together as the real world would soon raise it ugly head again.

Impressum

Tag der Veröffentlichung: 06.10.2011

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