Chapter 6 Tango-ed confessions4/20/09

         Chapter Six

                             Tango-ed Confessions







         Opening his eyes, Jayce watched as the last rays of sun light vanished into the darkened sky.  The curtains were open slightly to reveal the cold clear sky.  The stars twinkled brightly in the frigid February atmosphere.  The almost full, crystal white moon was already peering out.

         Sitting up he glanced around the room.  Now taking time to notice, the simple room decorated with creative flowing fabrics and mesh.  Each piece strategically placed.  Crimson and burgundy draped across the dresser, flowing around her make-up table.  It ran across the ceiling above her bed, falling like water over the frame, giving it a canopy like effect.

         Rolling over to feel for her, his hand found only the soft sheet.  Realizing he was alone, Jayce got up from the mattress.  Slipping on his pants and shoes, He walked out to the kitchen.  There, to his surprise, he found Adora and Frost entertaining the others.  She called out random commands, and Frost obediently followed every instruction.  Billy, noticing Jayce’s presence, walked over to him. 

         “She’s amazing man.  One minute the dog wants to rumble and the next, she’s got him amusing us.  It was wild man!  You must have been really out of it not to hear all the commotion out here.” Billy babbled excitedly.

         “She really is amazing.” Jayce mused, unable to take his eyes off her.

         “Wow man.  You got it bad!” Billy observed, moving into Jayce’s line of sight.

         “Got what bad?”

         “Her. You got a bad ‘falling’ case of love, man.”

         “Don’t be ridiculous.”  Jayce scoffed walking away into the living room.

         “Oh come on. . .”  Billy sighed walking in after him. “We all know how you feel about her.  Even if you haven’t yet.  The way you look at her, talk to her.”

         “Really?  I don’t even know how I feel about her yet but, all of you do?  Good to know.” He whispered with intensity, “Thanks for letting me know.”

         “Just admit it man.  You dig her.  Even though she’s human, and will eventually die.  In this case sooner than later.”  Billy stated admiringly.

         But Jayce found no humor in his remark.  Moving closed to Billy’s face he growled, “That’s not funny.  Regardless of her heart problems, she could still live a full life.  And yes I like her.  Maybe even more then I should, but she is still human and as you know, there is no real life with us.  I might be stuck on her now but, it’s better not to get too attached.”

         “Ah, But my friend it’s too late, you already are, and you know it.  Plus she’s not a normal human, and you know that too!” Billy’s eyes growing more intense as he spoke.  He was playing devil’s advocate.  Which meant he wasn’t sure himself, how to feel about her, let alone Jayce being around her.  Jayce, knowing what Billy was doing, redirected the conversation saying,

         “You like her too, don’t you?” Jayce snorted.

         Before he could answers his eyes locked on something behind Jayce, and then dropped to the floor.  Turning around Jayce saw Adora standing there with Dunkin behind her. 

         “Well?” She asked looking from one to the other.  Billy and Jayce looked to each other then back at her.  As they opened their mouths to speak she interrupted saying, “Are we ready to get down to business?  Training?”

         Letting out a sigh of relief Jayce replied, “Yes. Of course.”

         Adora showed them what she’d already learned.  Mikey and Billy improved on her technique, as she went through the motions.  They took it easy on her, still unsure of her health.  But, she was relentlessly pushing herself into her movements.  Finding it satisfied her anger.  The guys were impressed by her precision and ambition, as they watched her practice.  Tommy and Joe made punching bags and other various training equipment out of the junk lying around the barn. 

         Around midnight they forced her to take a break.  They all went into the house grabbing beers from the fridge.  Chatting about things that would have to be done soon.  A hard loud knock rang through the house interrupting the conversation.

         Adora jumped, “Who is it?” she immediately yelled as the others went quiet.

         “It’s Josh!  I know it’s late but I just got in town and Martin’s not home.” A deep voice answered.

         Adora waved her hand motioning to the basement. “I’ll try to get rid of him.  But you should hide in case he decides to come in.” she mouthed. 

         They all blurred out of sight in an instant, leaving Jayce there by her side at once.

         “Be careful.” he murmured kissing her before he was gone.

         Adora straighten herself as she walked to the door cracking it open. “Hello Josh.” she greeted him warmly.

         Josh stood there on her frozen porch.  His dark brown hair, short and freshly cut.  Brown kind eyes staring back at her.  A small faded scar, sat just under his right eye.  A scar that he’d obtained the night of her rescue.  Strong features illuminated by the dim yellow porch light.  He wore a long brown winter coat, and gloves.  He was taller now, since last she’d seen him.  His young looking baby face gave the illusion that he was in his early 20’s.  Although he was a few years older than she was.

         “Sorry if I woke you.” he apologized.

         “Oh no. I was just about to go for my evening walk with Frost.  You up for it?”

         “Sure thing.” He answered.

         “Okay great!  Just let me get Frost and I’ll be right out.” She said quickly closing the door. 

         Jayce suddenly appeared next to her with leash in hand.  Frost already attached to it.  She reached for her coat whistling as if she was still looking for the dog.

         “Are you sure this is such a good idea, doll?”  Jayce asked concerned.

         “Yes.”  she whispered back, throwing on her coat and boots.  “Besides, this way he won’t have a chance to be suspicious.  I’ll walk him up the road to Martin’s.  I’ve got a spare key.  I’ll just let him in and then I’ll be right back.”

         “I’m coming with you.” he insisted.

         “No.  You can’t just walk out there with me.”  She stated in a shocked whisper.

         “I didn’t mean with you.” Jayce smiled, “Don’t worry.  He’ll never know I’m there.  But I’m not letting you go alone.  I don’t trust him.”

         Adora let out a frustrated sigh, “You don’t even know him Jayce.  You just don’t trust the hunter part of him.  But he’s my friend.  He’d never hurt me.”

         “No, it’s not a hunter vamp thing.  There’s just something about his scent, it’s almost familiar.”

         “That’s probably because he’s been hunting your buddies.” she joked.

         She kissed him before slipping out the door.  Jayce rushed out the back door, watching them from the darkest corner of the yard, trying not to get too close.  Staying within his hearing range.  Josh made him uncomfortable.  He wasn’t about to trust him with Adora now.

         “Well hello there, Frost buddy.” Josh greeted in a loud deep voice.

         Frost was happy to see him.  Wagging his tail fiercely as Josh stroked his white fur. “Has he gotten bigger already?”

         “Nope.  I guess it’s just been awhile since you’ve seen him.”  she remarked turning to stroll off the wooden porch.

         “Oh.” he uttered happily.

         They headed to the deserted dirt road.  The snow simmered in the moonlight.  No sound but, the crunching of it underneath their feet, and Jacob still talking to Frost, who was being very attentive to the sound of his voice.

         “Do you like him, Fox?” he spoke quieter now.

         “Yes I do.  He’s been wonderful to have around.  Although, I don’t think the barn cats are all that happy with him.” she chuckled.

         “God, I’ve missed that.”

         “What?”

         Josh smiled at her, “Your laugh.  It’s been almost a year since I’ve heard it.  I forgot how beautiful it is.”

         Adora blushed at that.  Not knowing what to say back, she nodded continuing to walk.

         “I’ve embarrassed you.”

         “No.  It’s just, I don’t know what to say to that.” her cheeks burned.

         “How bout thank you?” he muttered.

         “Thank you Josh.” she murmured shyly.

         “I’ve missed you Fox.  Sorry I’ve been away so long.”

         “I missed you too Josh.  Where’ve you been?” Adora asked, relieved by this change of subject.

         “Italy mostly.” he snickered, “I’ve been learning about the older vamps lately.  That way, we’ll know how to handle Marnus.  If my suspicions are right about him being the one here in the city, I think we’ve got a chance to end him.  But, let’s not talk about that right now.  I bought you something while I was in Rome.” he hinted.

         “What a new crucifix?” she retorted, with another giggle.

         He snorted.

         “No. Better.  If you’ll accept it.” his voice, sounded shaky now.

         Adora stopped in her tracks, pondering the unknown emotion on his tan face.

         “I thought this was a good surprise.” she said, concern inflecting in her tone.

         “It is.  Maybe.” he shrugged.

         “Oh come on Josh!  What is it?” she coaxed.

         Josh cleared his throat, “Now, don’t freak out right away. Let me get through it first.  I’ve given this quite some thought, and I really want to give you this.” 

         His hands shook as he pulled a small black box from his jacket pocket.

         “Oh, Josh that’s not a,”

         “Sssh.” he whispered, “I wanna do this right.”

          Jayce, watching from the tree line, felt his stomach turn. Witnessing Josh falling to one knee, in the icy snow.  Opening the box as he spoke, reviling a small, simple diamond ring.

         “Adora Foxtin.  I’ve loved you since the first moment I’d laid eyes on you.  You’ve been my best friend, and I want to be with you forever, if you’d let me.  Will you do me the honor of marrying me?” 

         Jayce tightened his jaw, clenching his fists.  Jealousy flowed over him rapidly.  Taking a long moment before he recognized what it was.  Fighting against it, his eyes found Adora’s face.

         She stood silent, a horrified look enveloping her face.  She couldn’t hide her shock.  Her brain held his words, playing them over and over again.  She couldn’t speak.

         “Fox?  Did you hear me?”  he asked in a panicked voice.

         “Yes, I heard you.” she mumbled, hoping he wouldn’t say it again.  That he’d realize this was a mistake, and he would try and take it back. “Josh, why are you doing this to me?”

         “Doing to you?”

         “Yes.  What are you doing here?  We’ve never dated, held hands, kissed, or anything.  I don’t understand why you’re doing this.” she said, confusion driving her thoughts as she spoke.  The world starting to spin out of control.

         “I know this is confusing to you.  But it makes sense to me.  We make sense together.  I can take care of you.  Protect you now.  You shouldn’t have to be alone anymore.  We could travel around the world.  I know I could make your life normal again, if you’d just give me the chance.” he was convinced.

         “Josh, no!  I don’t need you to protect me right now.  I don’t want to get married.  Ever!  Please stand up and put that away!” she blurted out uncontrollably, almost hysterical.  Making Jayce’s body tense in the concealed darkness.

         Adora suddenly remembering Jayce was out here, somewhere watching all this.  Her eyes searched the darkness swiftly, before looking back at Josh.  The look of disappointment on his face now, breaking her heart. 

         Josh’s gaze fell to the ground.  After a moment of silence, he stood up placing the ring box back into his pocket.  He cleared his throat looking away from her. “I guess you’re right.  I should have asked you out first.  I’m moving too fast for you.  I get it.  But at least think about it.  We’d be wonderful together.  I’d be a good husband.  I’d never hurt you.”

         “I know Josh.”  Adora spoke calmly again, “But I just don’t think of you that way.”

         Horror struck his face, “Why not?!” he almost shouted to her.

         “Because, I don’t belong in your world.  I don’t want to worry about you every time you go out on your hunting expeditions.” her voice becoming harsh as she spoke. “Not knowing if you’re coming back alive or in a pine box.  I’ve lost enough people to this life style.  I don’t want to lose anymore.  I already worry about you when you’re gone.  But if we were together….” 

         She took a deep breath trying to get her heartbeat back to an even pace.

         “Is there someone else?” he demanded to know.

         “What?”

         “Are you seeing someone else?  It’s not a hard question.” Josh’s hands compressed tightly awaiting her answer.

         She swallowed hard, “Maybe.  I mean, I might be sometime soon.”

         “So, there is someone else.”

         “No, not yet.  And whether there is or not it makes no difference.  My answer would still be the same.  I don’t want to get married. Especially not to a hunter.  I can‘t handle the life style.  Please try and understand.” she pleaded.

         “Adora, that’s not a good enough reason for me.  You’ve been involved in this life style for six years now.  And until Marnus is dead, you’ll continue to be a part of it.  Let me be the one to get you out of this. Let me rescue you.  I’ll give up the hunting if that’s what you want.  I love you.  I need to be with you.” his statement was stern, hard, cutting to the point.

         “Josh, I said no.  I don’t need any rescuing.  I don’t want to hurt you but, it seems it’s the only way to get this through to you.” she said coldly. “I don’t love you like that.”

         Hurt twisting at his face as she uttered the words.  Then his face went red with anger.  “I guess there’s nothing more to discuss.”

         Josh walked away from her, continuing down the long, dark road.  She reached out for him, but he shrugged away, walking past her.

         “Josh! Wait! Don’t be like that!” she called after him, “Please, I’m still you’re friend!”

         He stopped dead in his tracks.  Without looking back he yelled, “That’s not enough for me anymore, Fox!  Sorry.”

         Then he disappeared into the darkness. 

         Adora turned.  Disappointment and hurt rose in her eyes, causing moisture to fill them.  She looked up to see Jayce standing there next to her.  Startling her just enough to allow the tears spill down her face.

         Jayce scrutinized her face for a second, watching the hurt wash over her.  Reaching out he pulled her close, embracing her.

         “You didn’t turn him down because of me did you?  If ….”

         “No Jayce.” she sobbed into his chest, “I really don’t love him like that.  But I do love him.  He was my best friend, and now I’ve wounded him so.  Will he ever forgive me?”

         “I’m sure he will doll.” Jayce said consoling her, swallowing his irritation. “How could anyone not?  At least you were honest.  He’ll come around after his anger has subsided.  I’m sure of it.”

         She trembled in the cold night.  Teeth chattering, while, she tried to control her breath.          

         He smiled cordially, “Now come on.  Let’s get you inside where it’s warm.”





           *                *                    *                *





         That night after she’d got her bearings, they continued with defensive training.  The scene with Josh made her more viscous with her attacks, using her hurt to hit harder and more focused. 

         After Billy determined that was enough for one evening, Joe decided to steal her.  Trying to teach her how to conceal weapons, to which she gave him better tips on.  After that Tommy took her out to target practice.  He’d made up several scarecrows placing a big black X over their hearts.  Testing her precision over and over again, Joe made her attack the dummy vamps.  Until she was exhausted and frozen, leaving her muscles sore and tensed.

         “Good job kid!”  Was all he said after they’d finished.  Then he wondered into the house.

         Jayce stepped out of the shadows from where he was watching.  Escorting her to the door. 

         “You should take a nice hot shower.  Sooth those aches.  That’ll help you sleep better.” 

         “Yeah that sounds real good right now.”  Adora responded with teeth chattering.

         “You okay?”

         “Yeah.  I’m good.  Too tired to care right now I guess.”  she shrugged.

         Jayce stopped by the door.  “You wanna tell me about him?”

         “Not much to tell.  I’ve told you pretty much everything.  He helped save me, and we’ve been good friends up until now.  I’m not sure where this proposal came from.”

         “Well, he seemed really agitated.  Is he usually like that when he’s told no?”

         “No, that’s an unusual response from him.  Why do you wanna know?” 

         “Just …curious.” he responded with a shrug, opening the door for her.



         The shower felt good against her sore frozen limbs.  Feeling every small muscle in her body, flexing and pulling as she bathed.  The steam rose from the heat of the water, off her frigid skin.  Her mind, slowly explored her day, leaving only questions while it processed the information.  First, she thought about Josh.  How mad he’d become. 

         ‘What was he thinking?’  she thought, ‘Did I ever give him a false hope?  Or any hope for that matter?  No.  We’ve always been just good friends.  Why would he react like that?  Oh god.  If he knew about Jayce,’



         Adora’s thoughts turned to Jayce’s face.  The incredible evening they’d shared, just the night before.  He made everything so perfect.  Everything about him was perfect.  Like some kind of pale God, he came from out of nowhere, bringing with him unexpected, strange, and wonderful things.  Knowledge forbidden to the rest of the world was now being shared with her.  Supernatural beings that she had learned to fear, and hate, now sat at her table.  They all trusted her, and she them.  In such a short time, hours really, they had bonded.  The four of them were all on the same side.  Together, they would defeat their former capture and rival. And then...

         And then what?  Her thoughts stopped, changing abruptly to unknown questions.  Most important of them all, when this was all over, what would happen to Jayce?  If they all survived there would be no happy ending.  He would have to go back home, to New York City, where he belonged.  There would be no place for her there.  No place for a mortal in his endless, vampuric world.  They would have to leave each other, eventually.  She was only making this harder, on herself, and on him.  Confessing her feelings only made things worse.  Complicating this more than need be. 

         The water started to cool, as she stood there, motionless against its stream.



         “Feeling better my dear?” Dunkin inquired from the kitchen table, when Adora entered the room in her robe and wet hair.

         “Yes.” she yawned. “Much. Thank you Dunkin.”

         “Good, now for your next lesson.” he added cheerfully.

         “Next?  Dunkin it’s 4 in the morning!” she said, gawking at him. 

         “So it is.  My pretty girl, do you think you can be around a big group of vampires, trying to enjoy an exciting party, and be yawning all night?  I think not.” he informed in a flamboyant tone.

         “No?” she muttered shyly.

         He smiled, saying, “No is right.  Now being a slave is a little different from being a thrall, my dear.” Motioning to a chair as he spoke.

         Adora sat down; beginning to fidget with her fingers, saying “Is it?”

         “Yes.” he lisped. “For one, a thrall is normally truly infatuated by her, um … we’ll call him a keeper.  A thrall’s keeper has, by this stage, already has established some kind of relationship with them.  Some kind of deep emotional attachment. Respect, fear, love, whatever it is that they feel is enough for the vampire to have power over them.  You understand?” he paused, waiting for Adora’s nod before continuing,

         “So, when the vampire decides to make a thrall, he does something to cause that emotional reaction, establishing the connection.  At that point, the vampire gives them a few drops of his blood.  Which in return, as you know, gives them heighten senses.  Agility, strength, sight, hearing, smell, touch, excreta.  It is that emotion, which makes it addicting to mortals.  It is not the taste.  Maybe, for some it is the power they have inherited.  Nevertheless, for all, it is the way it makes them feel.  They are more passionate about everything.  Whether fear or love, it makes no difference.  The facts are the same.  It is an addictive high, which you are lucky enough, to be without.  That is what we will work on tomorrow.  Questions?”

         She pursed her lips in thought. “Do I have to eat bugs?” she commented seriously.

         Dunkin chuckled, answering only with, “Myth!”

         “Good.” she sighed, with a smile. Tapping a cigarette gently from her pack, and lighting it, she asked upon exhale, “What about Jayce?  What feeling does he instill in his Thralls?”

         “Ha!” Dunkin replied with a scoff, “Vampires in general instill whatever fits what they want out of their Thrall’s.  But Jayce,” He shook his head, “Jayce has never participated in that, tradition.  And there‘s no need to do that to you.”

         “Hasn’t had a need for one?”

         “No.  Let us just say, Jayce is not that type of vampire.” Dunkin whispered.

         “Really?  What kind is he?” she persuaded.

         “Well,” Dunkin hummed, sitting back in his chair.  Pursing his lips now, as he thought how to answer her.  After a few moments he shrugged, “He’s the redeemable kind.”

         “Redeemable?”

         “You know. The kind that sees their curse, and tries to make something good out of it.  If there was, or is a God, Jayce has a good shot at being forgiven in the end.” Dunkin answered proudly.

         Adora went silent.  She considered his words, falling into deep thought.  At first, her logical mind brought back the terrifying moment, when he had flown up the basement stairs and pinned her to the counter top.  Shaking off that thought, it was quickly replaced with the first words he had uttered to her through the locked basement door.  ‘I give you my word miss.  No harm shall come to you.’  He had been such a gentleman.  Not wanting to push her too far when she talked about Marnus.  How politely he had handled her first impatient kiss.  How he tried to talk her out of anything physical last night.  It was so easy to brush off the thought of him being a monster, in any way.

         “Is he boring you?” Jayce asked walking into the kitchen, startling them both.

         “No.” they answered quickly.

         “Talking about me then?”

Adora blushed looking down at the table, hoping he wouldn’t notice.  Dunkin on the other hand chuckled,

         “Really Jayce, don’t be so conceited.” his deep laugh that followed suddenly cut short when Jayce spoke.

         “Well, that blush gives me reason to be.” He motioned to Adora, still staring at the table.  This time Jayce laughed, opening the fridge to grab a beer from it.

         “How can you do that?” Adora asked him innocently, looking up at him through her long lashes.

         “Do what?”

         “Drink other things then blood? In everything, I have read there is no mention of this.  Actually it’s believed to be impossible.” she said puzzled.

         Jayce and Dunkin exchanged a glance.  Dunkin motioned with an open hand, for Jayce to explain.  Jayce nodded back, taking a swing from the bottle.

         “Okay.”  he started, sitting down at the table, “Blood is the only thing that sustains our existence. That parts true. We get nothing from the food we eat. It is merely for show. A survival technique, so we can blend in.  The older vampires, I mean the ancient, vampires.  The first ones, didn’t have this, bonus.  It developed over time. The more hunters and hunts the better we got at blending in.  Like when we breathe, it is a natural reflex. The breath does nothing for us, but it’s in our minds to do so, and so we do. We eat food, drink beer, whatever we used to do because it’s a habit.  Unfortunately it has a down side.”

         The two of them smirked at each other.  Adora watched them for a moment, held in suspense, awaiting the conclusion.

         “You really don’t wanna know.” Jayce said reassuringly.

         “Yes I do.  You’ve already said too much, might as well finish it.” she added.

         “We can’t digest anything but blood.” Dunkin hinted. 

Adora looked more puzzled. Dunkin sighed playfully.

         Jayce shook his head, “Good ahead Dunkin.”

         “We have to regurgitate it after a while.” he shrugged.

         “Oh.” she said, pondering the thought. “That really is a draw back.”

         Jayce chuckled, “Okay enough vampire secrets for the night.  You should be in bed.”

         “Oh no, she’s not!” Dunkin informed him. “She’s got one more lesson before she can do that.” 

         “What?” Jayce hissed, “She’s exhausted.”

         “That is exactly the point, Jayce.  She cannot be exhausted at four a.m. if she is going to play a convincing Thrall.” He scolded.

         “It’s not like we’re going to be there that long, Dunkin.  I think we can skip this lesson.”  Jayce uttered casually. 

         “Are you sure?  How real do you want this to look?” Dunkin asked, eyebrow raised.

         “It should look like she’s a newbie.  Not like, she’s been this way for a while.  Marnus knows we’ve only had a couple of days.  But, this isn’t for his benefit anyways.  It’s to keep the other vampires away from her.”

         “I’m sitting right here.” Adora spoke softly. 

         “Sorry.” Jayce said, straightening himself in his chair. “I think you should get some sleep now.”

         Dunkin nodded in agreement, checking his gold watch for the time.

         “Yes, you should. I will be starting your dance training tomorrow.” Dunkin added.

         “Dance training?” she mumbled

         “Yes.  You are going to a ball after all, and dancing will be a big part of that.  Most vampires like to dance.  It is a past time for us.” Dunkin responded.

         “Okay.  Well I guess I’ll see you tomorrow then?” She glanced at Jayce with a hopeful smile.

         He nodded, smiling back at her.  Waiting patiently as she walked down the hall, closing her door behind her.  Then he cleared his throat, taking another swig from his bottle before addressing Dunkin.

         “I don’t want you pushing her too hard.  We have to keep her health in mind.”

         Dunkin leaned forward, his eyes meeting Jayce’s, “We have a limited amount of time, and there is not enough of it to baby her.  This is a very dangerous situation, especially for her.  We have to push.  As long as she keeps taking her, …medicine, she will be fine.  It’s you I’m worried about.”

         Jayce’s eyes widened, “Me?  Why?”

         “Because, my dear boy, your priorities are all out of order.  One minute you are worried about her not having enough time to prepare her, and now you worry I am pushing her to hard. You are more disturbed about her health then the task at hand.  That makes things more difficult.  If that is on your mind at the party, one of those telepathic bloodsuckers will know about it. That puts her and you both, in danger.”

         “What am I supposed to do then, Dunk?  Ignore it?  Pretend it’s not a factor?” Irritation bubbled underneath the surface, of Jayce’s words.

         “Yes.” Dunkin said coldly, “For her safety, and yours.  Yes, that is exactly what you do.”

         “Yeah, I’ll get right on that.” Jayce mumbled sarcastically, standing up to walk out of the room.

         “I did not mean you have to be unaware of it, but Jayce, you must control your thoughts.  Have some faith.  She will be fine.”

         “Easy for you to say.” Jayce grumbled looking down at him.

         “You think you are the only one who has ever tried to pass a human off as a thrall before?  I have got news for you boy.” Dunkin challenged, “You are not. This situation has only two differences from the others.  She is an unattached Thrall already, and you have feelings for her.  Both things are wonderful advantage for another vampire to possess.  Do you want to keep her safe? Start treating her like your Thrall. Help her learn. Deal with your feelings after this is all over.”

         “What if I can’t after this is all over?” Jayce whispered through clenched teeth. “Anything could happen out there.”

         “Jayce, if you need to deal with this beforehand, then do it.  But do it quickly. Being double minded right now, will only hinder you.  Do you even know how you feel?” Dunkin’s voice softened.

         “No.” Jayce sighed.

         “Then I suggest you figure it out, and soon.” Without another word, Dunkin left the kitchen, disappearing down into the basement.

         Jayce sat alone, until just before dawn.  Thinking over and over again, about how he felt.  Examining everything factually.  They way he would have if this had been just another case.  However, emotions, and identifying them within himself, proved to be a difficult task. Giving up for the day, he slowly snuck into Adora’s room.  She lay there sleeping, perfectly still, and at peace.  Listening to her delicate breaths, her slow rhythmic heart beats, as he watched her.  She appeared sweeter, innocent, a perfect creature from some holy realm, misplaced among them.  He was moved by her, it was hard not to be.  It was hard not to feel something, for this pure beauty.  It would not be fair to extinguish her light from the world.  To make her something cold and dark.  No, she belonged in the sunlight, having babies, and growing old gracefully.  Dunkin was right, now was not the time for emotions. 

         With his mindset, he slid into bed on top of the blankets.  She seemed undisturbed by his presence.  Before he realized it, his hand touched her cheek, stroking it lightly.  A shiver rippled through her body, and he moved it away quickly.  She twisted towards him, laying her head against his cold chest.  Carefully, he wrapped his arms around her, securing her to his body.  She opened her mouth.  Letting out one sweet sigh, before falling back to sleep in his arms.  Jayce smiled, closing his eyes.





                   *                    *                    *                    *



         In the later afternoon Adora awoke still cuddled next to Jayce.  The side of her face, cold against his bare chest, gave her a shiver throughout her body.  Sliding Out of the bed, she quietly left him sleeping there.  Delicately closing the door behind her, she suddenly smelled breakfast cooking.  The smell of bacon and eggs lingered into the hallway.  Tiptoeing across the smooth wooden floor, she snuck to the kitchen doorway. 

To her surprise, she saw Dunkin by the stove pan in hand.  Bacon sizzled from within it.  Eggs and toast sitting on a plate, on the counter top next to him.  Although it was strange watching a vampire cooking in her kitchen, it also looked so natural to him to be doing so. 

         “What is all of this?” Adora asked still surprised.

         “Breakfast.  It is not very much.  I just thought it would be nice for you to have a warm meal.” Dunkin shrugged, placing several pieces of beacon on the plate, next to the scrambled eyes and buttered toast. 

         “Thanks, but you really didn’t need to do this.” she stated shyly, sitting down. Noticing the placemat and silverware were positioned just so on the table.

         “No, I suppose I did not have to.  Nevertheless, I do so miss cooking.  I do not get to do it much anymore.  Jeremy used to love my cooking.” he mused, placing the plate in front of her, before he sat down across from her.

         “Who’s Jeremy?” She asked picking up a piece of egg with her fork, and placing it delicately in her mouth. “Wow this is really good!”

         “Thank you.” he responded proudly, even though his face gave a different impression.  Sadness lingered in his eyes. 

         “Dunkin?  Are you ok?” she inquired kindly.

         “Yes.  It is just, I try not to think of him much.  Jeremy was my, life partner.” He eyed her suspiciously, awaiting her reaction. 

         “Oh.” she shrugged, unsurprised to hear his confession.

         Dunkin sighed loudly, visibly relaxing his body. Then he whispered, “You knew?”

         “I guessed.  It’s obvious in your mannerisms.  But, it doesn’t change anything.” She smiled placing her hand on his cold fingers.

         He took her hand gratefully.  “Some are not as understanding.  Thank you.”

         “What’s not to understand?  You loved someone.  Does the gender really matter?  Are vampires just as shallow as the rest of the world?” 

         “Worse.  Luckily, I am too old to be messed with for it.  Still, there are those who think me soft for it.” he confessed.

         “Well, luckily for you, I don’t see it that way.  Now, tell me, .who’s Jeremy?” she hummed.

         Dunkin sighed again, “I first meet him in 1887 France.  He was a count, duke, or something.  The years have robbed me of some of the details.  However, I remember our first meeting as if it were yesterday.  We were at a Christmas party at my friend’s château.  He was the most marvelous creature I had ever seen, standing next to that big Christmas tree.  His eyes were a beautiful golden brown.  They matched his long hair.” Dunkin reminisced pensively.  Going silent for a moment, his eyes fixated on nothing while staring into the distance.

         Adora cleared her throat, bringing him back to the present. 

         “Sorry my dear, I was lost.”  he smiled half-heartedly.

         “It seems like things didn’t work out in your favor.” she noted.

         “No, they did not.  Jeremy was betrothed to a woman.  Her father had many powerful friends.  Ah, but, Jeremy and I could not deny the feelings we had for each other.  Back then, things were different, you must understand.  Being gay meant ‘as long as it was in private’.” he chuckled, “Long story short, we ran off leaving his mistress alone, and eventually I embraced him.  Then, Jeremy’s almost father in-law found us.  Turns out, he was a hunter.  And my Jeremy was killed.  It is not easy to keep those you love safe in this world.” Dunkin’s eyes burned his words into her head.  Kind, serious, concerned eyes piercing into her heart. 

         Setting her fork carefully on the empty plate in front of her, she smiled sweetly.  Dabbing at her mouth with a nearby napkin, before she spoke, “I understand what you’re saying, and I thank you for it.  It’s just, how do you stop this feeling once it’s already started?”

         “I do not know.  As you heard, I failed that lesson.” He laughed again, “So now, get dressed.  We’ve got work to do.”

         After a quick shower and a change of clothes, she came back out to her living room.  The center of the room was empty.  All the furniture was pushed to either side of the room.  The radio sat upon the fireplace mantle, playing soft classical music.  A pair of silver stripy heels was placed in the entryway.  Ironically, they were just her size.

         “Put them on.” Dunkin’s voice demanded.

         Her stomach dropped.  Nausea crept up on her as she thought, of the height of the heels.  Balance never being her strong suite. Her mind, playing out all the painful and embarrassing accident she could have in them.  Dunkin cleared his throat impatiently, causing her to snap back to the present.  Reluctantly and with some thought, she strapped them onto her little feet.  Straightening her self-upright, before the disorientation of the height hit her.

         “We will start with the Foxtrot!” he announced. Taking her around the waist in a flash, he whirled her around the living room.

         The others awoke just before dust.  Sluggishly dragging themselves to the kitchen to eat before, starting their evening.  Dunkin refused to allow the lesson to end; instead, he gave her two-minute breaks every hour. When the others became restless, Dunkin would direct them to various tasks around the house. This now included cleaning the guns, counting the ammo, and shaving stakes.  This was now a household chore.  Jayce and Billy spent most of the evening plotting and planning escapes and back up plans. Playing chess as they debated the pros and cons of each move.

         “Dunkin?” Adora whispered. 

         “Yes my dear?”

         “Are you sure this plan will work?”  Adora asked sheepishly, her head falling to look at her feet.

         Dunkin pushed her chin up with the side of his hand, straightening her frame, as they continued dancing.  Changing to the waltz as new music started playing.

         “I have no doubts.  Jayce’s plans are almost fool proof.  That is why he is my second.  I have faith that he will know the right way to handle this. Now, keep that head up my dear!”

         “Oh, but I’m not sure about this.  I mean we are the ones walking into Marnus’ trap.  We have no idea what he has planned, how can we possible be prepared?”

         “Ah, but you forget my dear. Jayce was with them for a long time. I think he has a very good idea of what they want to do to us. Besides, Marnus is not a thorough planner.” Dunkin said, giving her an unexpected twirl.          

         “Okay. Well that is one advantage that you have. I don’t know much about his past.” she stammered, trying to keep her footing.

         “Well that is Jayce for ya.” he said, switching abrupt to the Foxtrot.

         Adora staggered, trying to keep her balance and count. Surprising Dunkin, when she quickly found them. She adapted within seconds proceeding to keep her timing as they danced faster with the music.          

         “You have danced before, have you not?” he asked still surprised.

         “A little in my youth.” she sheepishly admitted.

         “Jayce does not like talking about his younger years. I honestly believe it is because he is not proud of the things he has done, or was forced to do. They were terrible to him. Abused him badly, messed with his mind unmercifully.  Made him do horrifying things.  Thank the gods, or lack thereof, that I found him when I did.  Any longer and I might have had to put him down.  Sixty years with those two was more than enough.”

         “Those two?” she asked bewildered, “What do you mean those two?  I thought it was just Marnus.”

         “Oh my gods.” Dunkin said, dumbfounded.  He stopped dancing, staring off again. “He has not told you?  How odd.”

         Adora opened her mouth, wanting to inquire more about his statement.  Before she could get out a sound, Jayce entered the room.  She let go of Dunkin, allowing her hands to drop to her sides. 

         “Ah, Jayce. We were just talking about you.  How goes the planning.” Dunkin muttered proudly.

         “Really Dunkin?  What were you discussing about me?” Jayce gave an intrigued smile.

         “The Tango!” Dunkin smiled back, “I was telling Miss Adora about your dance talents in that area.  What a remarkable ‘tango-est’ you are, or at least were.  It has been quite a while since you have danced.  Anyways, I was just getting ready to teach her a little.”

         Dunkin walked over to the radio on top of the fireplace. He pulled a CD from his jacket pocket, placed it in the proper slot, and pressed play. 

         “You?” Jayce scoffed. “First you imply that I have lost my talent.  Then you want to teach her a little, when you only know a little.  If she is supposed to be my Thrall, they will expect her tango to be almost flawless. Better let me handle this.”

         Jayce’s blue eyes locked on hers.  Giving a glance over her body, he took her by the hand, pulling her close to him.  She could smell his cologne; feel his hard body against her.  Stealing her breath away, he wrapped his arm around her waist. 

         “We’ll start off slow.” he promised.

         “No need.” Adora replied, “I know a little about tango.”          

         “I should probably warn you.” Jayce whispered, inches from her mouth, “I’ve been doing this dance for about nine decades now. So forgive me if I move too fast for you there, doll.”

         “Oh.” she smirked innocently. A smug tone lingered in her soft voice. “I’ll try to keep up.”

         The music began playing. Strong notes hitting as their feet started moving.  Rhythmic steps back. One foot after the other. Pressed tightly together. Jayce lead her with authority, and grace across the smooth wooden floor. Like a lover trying to fight for the enticement of his new mistress.  Emotion pulled and pushed her away. Desire, brought her back in close. Her breath escaped rapidly with excitement, feeling his energy before his movements. Their movements fluid, and precise.

          Never once did she miss a step, even as his pace became faster. A confident look crossed her face, as she matched his steps.  Spinning her around, Jayce placed his wide-open hand upon her stomach.  Pausing a moment to listen to her heavy panting.  His body became feverish with temptation, over her willingness to impress him.  To adapt with him. She know his every move before he did, challenging him with it. 

         “I should tell you,” she whispered to him, feeling his lips atop her shoulder, “I took six years of Latin dance when I a teenager.”

         A smile slid across his lips, before grabbing her hand and sending her spinning across the room.  Then he was there, on the other side of the room, pulling her in. Whirling around, they forgot everyone, and everything around them.  Ravaging each other, through the spirit of the dance.  In this moment, he was her master, and she his mistress.  Intertwining with each other’s bodies, they competed against the other’s fervor, against their own determinations.  Moving around the wooden floor, relentlessly matching each flawless technique. Sparking to life, the fire inside them. Burning up, in passionate flames when they came within inches of each other’s mouths.  Spinning, twisting, slamming against his body, before he finally brought to the floor.  Dipping her, and kissing the side of her lips, just as the music stopped. 

         For several long seconds the room was quiet.  Nothing but, the sound of heavy panting, while the dancers caught their breath. Staring into each other’s eyes, both still lost within this moment. 

         “Now that’s what I call ‘sex on a dance floor’.” Billy called out, as the others gave a round of applause.  Causing Jayce and Adora to instinctively pull apart.

         “Dunkin?” Jayce nervously ask, clearing his throat “Was that acceptable? What did you think?”

         “Oh I think that was, perfectly convincing.  Maybe a little too much so.”  Dunkin smiled, “Like you two were meant to be,”

         “I think you two need a room!” Tommy interrupted loudly. “Hell, I might need a room after that!”

         Adora’s face became flushed.  Neither able to look at the other, both unsure of how to react, or what to say.  Then Dunkin winked at Jayce, saying,

         “That would be your cue to leave.” he whispered.



Want to read more? See how the story ends @



www.booksie.com/Melinda Gale