Dracula's Kiss

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This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Dracula’s Kiss Copyright  2011 by JoAnne Kenrick ISBN: 978-1-61333-139-2 Cover art by Fantasia Frog Designs All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work, in whole or in part, in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Published by Decadent Publishing Company, LLC Look for us online at: www.decadentpublishing.com

Dracula’s Kiss JoAnne Kenrick

A 1 Night Stand Story

~DEDICATION~

For The Bistro in Rhyl, for feeding my addiction for all things rock and goth, and giving me the best years of my late teens and early twenties. And to all the girls who moshed out that tiny dance floor with me, and went shopping for outfits in Aquarius—the only place in town that sold those long, gypsy skirts we loved so much. Yvonne, Caroline, Ray, and Athena. Do you hear that? Sisters of Mercy’s Temple of Love. Must be time to hit the dance floor!

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Chapter One A chill caught Cathela and sent shivers down her spine. She wiggled her shoulders to shake off the cold before moving through the entrance of Slains Castle. Unable to control her wonderment that Bram Stoker might have crossed this very path while writing Dracula, she lingered to savor the experience and placed her hand on the stone doorframe of the sixteenth century structure. After a moment, she shrugged and moved on when residual energy from her favorite writer didn’t mystically hit her. Not that she expected it to. Hoped, maybe. Instead, salty air from the North Sea filled her nostrils, and overzealous music pounded through the ground and into the soles of her feet. Heavy, aggressive, and forced. Maybe I shouldn’t have hired a non-goth DJ. “I guess this is as close as I’m ever going to get to the Count.” She caressed her throat as she spoke his name. Dracula. Dracula.... A dream-like state washed over her, and the world became a fuzz of nothing and everything all at once. Images of her exposed neck, bite marks trickling with blood, and the presence of a man behind her flashed through her mind. She willed the next scene to reveal his face and complete her fantasy. A seagull swooping overhead squawked, dragging her back to reality. Could be a sign. Her upturned gaze lit on a gargoyle, chipped and moss-covered, glaring down on her, its cavernous eyes seeming to watch her. A chill raced down her spine and sent goose bumps prickling over her skin. Instinct told her to listen to the warning that someone or something observed her, but she ignored that possibility. What a silly notion. The only person paying attention to me tonight is Nick, who will be analyzing my every move to make sure I don’t mess up again. “Gawd, I’m such a ninny.” Her shame settled in her stomach once again, and the swirling butterflies in her gut made her nauseous. She tugged the crushed-velvet cape around her chest, patted the black mesh veil over her face, and chuckled. If not that, then what?

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Cry? Hide in shame? Not my style. “I did try to warn you a flimsy, satin dress couldn’t support your tits. You should have worn a bra.” Nick scurried up behind her and wrapped his arm around her waist before giving her a stinging pinch in her side. “We’ll never live it down.” She squirmed under his touch and pushed him away. “We? Besides, you like my breasts.” “Not when everyone else is staring, Cath.” “Cathela.” “Don’t start. Your name is Catherine Ela, not Cathela.” “For tonight, I’m Cathela, Dracula’s Bride. And you are my husband during this party. So put your fake fangs back in, why don’t ya, and take me?” “Where to? The bra store?” “Fun-ny! If you’re not gonna bite me, then bite me.” “Ouch.” “Oh...go be supportive of your woman and fetch me a whiskey. I need something to calm my nerves.” She gave him a twenty and waved him on ahead. When he’d disappeared from sight, she took one final spin to savor the moment and take mental snapshots of the scenery. The rustling sounds of trees dancing in the bitter October air mingled with that of the waves beating against the rocky heights of the shoreline. It couldn’t have been a more perfect night and venue for the Essex Co-op Bank’s Annual Halloween Ball. Even more so because the event was being held at the very castle that had inspired the setting for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Cliff-edged ruins straight from the most infamous vampire novel ever for a Halloween celebration. Her promotion to supervisor was in the bag! At least it had been until she curtsied to welcome the branch managers and her double Ds broke free. The attention her performance received probably bothered Nick more than it had her. In fact, she’d never admit to it in public, but she found it a thrill to have all eyes on her girls. She admired all she had organized, glad she had volunteered to make the arrangements. Just as she’d envisioned, from the hundreds of white fairy light sparkling above, to the sconces with flickering, pumpkin scented candles and the 2

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secluded seating areas. Determined to enjoy the mood she’d created with her planning and plotting, she pinned her shoulders back and grinned before gliding toward the bodies bumping and grinding on the dance floor. Neither her fella’s disdain nor the glares and digs from leering managers was going to ruin her night. She focused on the history surrounding her instead, and steered toward a magnificent arch adorned with intricate brickwork. The temptation to touch was too great, and she skated her fingers along the stone. Icy vibrations raced up her arm and sent a shudder straight to her bones. This place had an unnatural effect on her, and every minute she spent in the Scottish ruins brought her closer to her true self. The woman she used to be before Nick, and before she started putting her career first. The idea both scared and excited her. “The tales these walls could tell, eh?” Nick shoved a whiskey glass in her hand. The amber liquid splashed with the force. Unaware he had returned to her side, she jumped as her heart nearly pounded out of her chest. “Don’t sneak up on me like that, bloody hell!” She took a deep breath, clueless as to why her nerves were so on edge. Perhaps the show she’d put on earlier had affected her more than she realized. “Not sneaking. I think the whole castle heard me coming with these stupid faux-leather pants creaking with every step. Drink up, then it’s time for damage control.” He gripped her waist as she sipped the single malt. A sharp sting caught the back of her throat and burned her insides as the liquid slid down. But Nick’s heartless words hurt more. “No cola? Damn it?” She tsk’d and retaliated by shoving the empty glass at his chest. The song changed to a tune she knew well; Sisters of Mercy’s More from the early 1990s. The dark, sensual lyrics always got to her, and she swung her hips to the beat. More had been her mantra for so many years. “Stick it. I’m going to dance.” Nick wouldn’t follow her. All he knew how to do was the goddamn foxtrot and box step. She needed ten minutes to herself, and he seemed like he needed space from her, too. She slipped her fake bridal veil over her face and slunk into the blur of bodies bumping and grinding. Some were fake moshing, others stood like ducks out of 3

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water. She’d show them, she thought, allowing her body to move without prejudice or control. A sense of freedom enveloped her. And her limbs, liquid and balletic in their movement, expressed her elation. She swayed her head and gyrated her hips. The heavy bass, sensual deep thrums, and rasped lyrics rattled her, awakening her old self. The part of her that cared not about what people thought or about the future. She swayed her arms to the beat. Lost in the darkness, and in herself. Mid-flow, she remembered the gargoyle from outside, and an urge to gaze into the farthest corner of the vast space took her over. A shudder snaked down her spine and a tingling of excitement coated her. Compelled by curiosity, she peeled back her veil and squinted to study the darkness. A stunning image rewarded her when Dracula stepped from the shadows. Dracula? Had Nick spiked her drink? Top hat, rounded glasses, and piercing eyes. He tipped his topper and curved his mouth into a subtle, sexy smile with gleaming, pointed canines. “The area manager is a bit out of place. Go, dance with him. Show him your...erm...moves?” Nick rested his hand on the curve of her back and edged her in the direction of the short, bald, fat man she should be sucking up to. But dance with him? Not a chance in hell. “Where the hell did you come from?” “Figured it was time to poke you before someone else noticed how spaced out you seem tonight. Now, go dance with Mr. Clunes.” “Nick, you’re out of line. I messed up. Deal with it. The promotion has passed me by, so why don’t you chill out and enjoy the evening.” “Babe, have you forgotten our plans? We need that promotion so we can get a great rate on a mortgage to be able to afford our own place with the little we’ve saved up.” “The way you’re going, babe, we’re not going to last the night never mind the distance. Give me some space, why don’t ya?” “Cath?” “The things I’d have let you do to me, if only you’d gone to that much trouble.” “What things? Gone to what trouble?” “See that dude over there? Well, that’s how to do Dracula.” If only I could do 4

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Dracula, too. Nick, why are you such a bore? “Is that why you were staring over there? Were you eyeing up a vamp?” He shook his head and snorted. “No, I was admiring his costume. Isn’t it fantastic?” Resentful of the accusation, she pointed toward where she had seen the delectable sight. The Count had disappeared. He glanced over. “I see Cousin It, nobody else. I can do that.” Nick took his glasses off and scraped what little hair he had over his face before replacing them in their usual spot half way down his nose. “What sexy things are you going to let me do to you now that I’m Cousin It? Play peek-a-boo?” “Just take me to the restroom and bite me before my mood dissipates.” “Don’t be daft. I’m not gonna bite you.” “Bite me, fuck me, take control of me. I want to lose myself in the act of making love...to you...now “Language, Cath? Seriously, the last thing we need is to be caught banging in a porta-potty. Have you lost the plot or what?” He rolled his eyes. “No real plumbing is a major downside to partying it up in castle ruins. We could find a dungeon to fool around in. That could be fun.” She had to quench her growing thirst to do it in Dracula’s castle. “Don’t tell me you’re not into it. I can see your hard on. I can feel it, too.” She grabbed his cock and gave it a teasing squeeze. “Quit it.” He swiped her hand away. “The ghost story is going to start in a minute. Come on.” Nick scurried toward the back of the room and into a cozy alcove where other guests were gathering. She dragged her feet and followed him. Mavis Wright, the horror author Cathela had arranged to terrify the partygoers, sat in an armchair by the fireplace with her latest novel resting in her lap. She looked nothing like an author of creepy stories. Not even close. She had imaged an older lady with gray hair and a woolly cardigan. Mavis, cute in a banker type way, was a poser who had definitely drawn Nick’s attention; long, glossy, and dead-straight hair, typical Wicked Witch of the West costume, but no green face. “That explains the stiffy. You’ve got your eye on her, haven’t you?” He pivoted to stare her down. “You fuck off, Cath. I’m sick of your stupid vamp 5

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fetish. I’m never going to be enough for you, am I?” “Nicky bear, language.” She thrust out her lower-lip, sarcasm dripping from every syllable. “Don’t Nicky bear me. I’ve had enough. You’re twenty-four years old, woman. Wake up and smell the coffee. Yes, I said coffee, not blood. You’re too old to be running around like some goth wannabe. You look ridiculous. I should never have—” “What? You should never have what? Convinced me to settle down with someone I thought I could trust? Someone like you? Ha! It’s me who messed up. What was I thinking?” “I was going to say I was stupid to let you go ahead with this party. I should have known the whole Dracula connection would have you vampire crazy.” The cheek. He’s the one making eyes at an unoriginal witch. Nick stormed toward the excited partygoers and took up residence at the author’s feet. He gazed up at her, his expression resembling a lovesick schoolboy. Rubbing salt in the wound, he turned in Cathela’s direction and frowned before returning attention to his new crush. She could no longer see his face, but she could guess what dirty little thoughts ran though his mind at that minute— missionary-style, with socks on. Who am I kidding? Nick and I have no future together. God, I’ve been dense to think someone like me could map out her future, lead a somewhat normal life with a mortgage and premium bonds, and stick to it. Stupid girl. She perched on the edge of a rustic stool at a prop bar made from wood and plaster casting with great paint effects. The art department from the local college she’d hired on the cheap had done a fantastic job. It was pretty realistic except for the missing bartender. “Hello?” “Hello tae ye.” Dracula popped his head up from behind fake antique bottles displayed on the bar, and the shock nearly knocked her on her ass. You’re bloody gorgeous. His glasses, too large for him, slid down his nose and drew her attention to his eyes so pale they were like clear glass or the color of the sky painted over with thin, white clouds. He pushed his shades back into place, 6

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covering up the objects of her fascination. She wanted to yank his funky shades off him so she could gaze into his oceanic pools a while longer. “Where did you come from?” She sighed. “Just cleaning some glasses. I’ve got a cold-water barrel an’ that’s it. Makes mah job a wee bit stoaner, ye ken?” What the hell did he just say? “Uh, huh. Exactly.” Cathela plonked her elbows on the bar and rested her chin in her hands, forgetting about Nick, and gazed at the fantastical vision before her. “You take your job seriously. Your costume rocks compared to what the rest of the staff is wearing.” He grinned. “What can I get ye?” He spoke slowly, like he talked to an idiot. Then again, at least she’d understood what he had said. I should get out of England more often, broaden my horizons...and listening skills. “Something for Halloween. Do you have a suggestion?” “How about a Dracula’s Kiss?” “I’ve heard of that before. Alcoholic cherry-cola sounds perfect, and what a name. I love that suggestion, thank you.” She watched him fill a tall glass with the nectar of Dracula, or rather, she ogled him. The end result was nothing short of spectacular, made up of layers of rich crimsons. “That is so pretty. How do you get the bottom to stay red and not blend in with the cola?” “It’s mah secret.” She loved his thick Scottish brogue, and made a mental note to come to Scotland more often. She loved Braveheart. Mel Gibson in a kilt. Freedom. Maybe she’d spot a man or two in traditional wear tomorrow when she explored the area. If she could lose Nick, she might even get to find out if the underwear rumors were true about Scotsmen. “Give over.” She laughed then covered her mouth. Quit the stupid schoolgirl giggle. Act sexy and vamp-like instead. She adjusted her boobs and fluttered her lashes. Who am I kidding? I’m way out of practice. “I have tae coat the glass with Grenadine, and then comes the black cherry 7

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vodka and cola. It’s all in the pouring, see?” He made another drink and plopped a few maraschino cherries on top. “Clever, but where are my cherries?” “I forgot.” He took one from his server tray and moved it toward her mouth. He raised a brow and paused for a second, seemingly testing the waters. She battled not to flinch or react in any way so he would continue. He slid it over her painted lips and Cathela sucked in a breath. Anticipation nagged at her to lick her lips to seduce this sexy barman, but the monogamist in her begged her to stand back. Her cheeky side won, and she welcomed his flirtation with hopes Nick would see and get jealous. It would serve him right. She smacked her lips around the syrup-coated treat and his fingers. With her tongue, she pulled the prize from his grasp and flicked his fingers away. He winked at her. “Thank you.” She grinned and spat the stem into a napkin. Very ladylike. She took a sip of her drink. Cola tickled her tongue and fizzed down her throat. A lethal blast of black cherry followed and tempted her to guzzle it. “Hmm, this stuff is addictive.” “Another?” She glanced down at her already empty glass then over her shoulder at Nick staring up at Mavis. “Yes, please.” “Right away, Mrs. D.” “Mrs. Dee?” “Dracula’s Bride, right? Mah wife.” “Oh, yes, I see. It was just, for a minute there—” He popped a cherry in her mouth mid-sentence. I’d be called Mrs. Dee if I married Nick. Her heart dropped. Although he got on her nerves sometimes, she’d spent four years with him and had planned for their future together. She glanced at her bare left hand. That says everything, doesn’t it? Four years and still no ring. Said he didn’t want to waste the money on something that didn’t matter. What the hell was I thinking falling for that controlling idiot, eh? “Another Kiss, please, husband.” Dracula did as ordered, sharp to the ball and eager to please, while managing to keep his top hat in place. It amazed her that it hadn’t fallen off yet. 8

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Nick had disappeared from sight. So had the author witch. “Another kiss?” This time, instead of pouring her a drink, he leaned over the bar and planted a smacker on her cheek. His action stunned her into freeze mode and gave him time to move to her mouth. She wobbled and reached to steady herself, landing her hands on the nearest support. Which happened to be him. Big mistake. He must have taken it as an act of passion because he deepened his kiss, smoldering her on the spot. Guilt hit her the instant his mouth met hers. Flirtation, sure. Lip on lip contact? She couldn’t do it to Nick the prick. Her anger spewed over his name at that moment, but tomorrow things would be back to normal and she would have to live with the guilt of kissing a stranger. And if he caught her in the act, he’d bring it up every single time she didn’t agree with him about something. No more lip locks with sexy vampires tonight. She scrambled to standing and asked, “Which way to the porta-potties?” Flustered, she made sure her boobs were still restrained then smoothed down the crinkled lines of her dress. Anything but look at him. “That way. Follow the staircase down and take a left. I hope I didn’t—” “I’m fine. I’ll be back, so make me another drink.” She hiccupped and threw her hand over her mouth. “Better make it water.” He smiled, all cocky-like. “Yes, Mrs. D.” Ugh, Mrs. D. She took his direction. With sporadically placed candle sconces as the only source of light, she wished she’d worn her glasses. And the uneven floor made her regret the four-inch heel on her patent leather boots. With each step, they caught in the cracks. She took them off and pushed them against the wall, figuring she could pick them up on her way back. Down the narrow and winding steps, she padded. Long dress and bare feet, like a damsel in distress from an old horror movie. Maybe Dracula is on my trail. She giggled. What if I pretend he is? Intoxicated, she struggled to pick up her frock and shorten it so she could run the length of the steps. She glanced back as if being chased, and even let out a little cry for help. I could give Mina Harker a run for her money...and Dracula a run for some fun. 9

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She reached the bottom of the incline. Left or right? Shame Nick isn’t here with me. It’s deserted and anything could happen down here...if I took the wrong turn. She pointed left but decided on going right, stealing a candle from the wall for light. An adventure, that was what she needed. A Gothic—all be it drunk—adventure. What’s the worst that could happen? I get lost? The ruins aren’t that big. I’ll have a little wander around then take a taxi back to the Kilmarnock Arms Hotel and sober up. The ceiling height dropped with every tiny step she took, and she could no longer stretch out her arms without bumping into walls. The tight space terrified her. Heart pounding, she rounded a bend and laughed with the ridiculousness of the situation, unable to believe she had accidentally on purpose arrived at the dungeons. Thick, steel bars still enclosed two of the cells and heavy-duty iron handcuffs were chained to the walls. She crept into the first chamber and glided her finger along the iron of the torturous restraints. Imagining the pain and horrors that must have happened there, she shuddered. “Have ye been naughty? Do I need tae teach ye a lesson and lock ye up?” A voice penetrated the darkness around her, shattering her little game of pretend cat and mouse. She spun to see who’d followed her. Not wanting to be caught in a drunken state, she prayed it was a stranger. But in the same moment, she hoped for someone she knew who wished her no harm. No one would hear me scream for help. Her candle snuffed out from a breath, and not her own. The chill exhale kissed her neck and skated down her body like an icicle drip. The horror of it sent her hurtling backward. Had it not been for the wall behind her, she would have landed on her butt. “Who’s there? Bar dude, is that you?” She pressed herself against the cool stone bricks, too excited to be truly afraid. After all, this was what she wanted. To not know what was going to happen next, and to fully engage in life again. And the way her heart jumped and her chest pounded, she felt alive for the first time in years. “Hello?” She peered down the corridor that donned only a flicker of light from the stairway’s sconces. 10

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“It’s me, Dracula.” He stepped into soft, flickering light not two meters away from her, his silhouette giving away his identity. Top hat and tail coat. Definitely him. “I saw ye come down here and wondered if ye were all right. Sorry if I scared ye.” Cool as ice, he strolled toward her. “I’m fine. A little creeped out, though.” She fanned herself, willing her breath to slow since panting and heaving were not the sexiest of images to go with. And even though she didn’t plan on doing anything about it, she couldn’t help wanting the Count lookalike to desire her. “Forgive me and let me make it up tae ye.” He slipped his arms around her shoulders and pried her from the wall before pivoting her so her back lay against his chest. It happened too fast, giving her no chance to protest. Who does this guy think he is? She tried to will herself to fight him off then run like the wind. But her goth self—and the Dracula’s Kisses he’d mixed for her— enticed her to stay wrapped in his arms and enjoy the sense of safe-danger he seemed to offer. This was what she wanted to happen when she took the path down here, if she was honest with herself. She recalled how she’d felt him following her, and how the silly girl in her pretended to run from him. She’d beckoned this to happen. It hadn’t been a drunken, made-up game after all. She tried to make sense of the whys and whens until he slid his hand over her curves and toward her sex. The thin, imitation silk ruffled under his touch and slipped over her skin. He pressed his fingers taut against her clit and cupped her soft, swollen mound, caressing her. She leaned her head back, steadying her weight against him. No more thinking. Her eyes closed with the ecstasy and her muscles tensed in anticipation of release, pulling at her stomach and making her toes curl in response. “We shouldn’t do this. I have no idea who you are or anything, and....” Pathetic, Cathela, you are pathetic. How about you say no and move away from the hot vampire? That would help. Yes, it would. “And yet here ye are, moaning in delight, begging me tae continue.” And I have a boyfriend called...something? What was his name again? He swiped her hair across her shoulder and planted sweet kisses along her exposed neck. She couldn’t believe it, her fantasy had come true. While she tried 11

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to figure out what she had done to deserve such pleasure, he pierced her skin with his teeth and clutched his fingers onto her like a cat kneading. His sharp nails scratched the surface of her costume, and his embrace, intense and full of passion, scared her. She’d let it go too far. “I can’t do this. I’m taken.” She pushed him away, panting, gasping for air and sensibility. Nick wasn’t perfect, and was probably upstairs flirting with the witch that very minute. But they were, for all intents and purposes, still living together and in love...weren’t they? She moved to the corner and whimpered, drowning in her own confusion. “You’re cold. Here, have mah jacket.” He draped his thick coat over her and tucked her in as if she were a toddler at bedtime. “Ye should take this, too. Use it if ye ever decide this is what ye need, Cathela.” He gave her a business card. She accepted and gave his offering a glance. “A dating agency?” “Trust me, ye’ll find what ye need there...when yer ready for it. I’ll order a car tae take ye back tae the Kilmarnock Arms. Be outside in ten minutes.” She slipped her arms into his coat and glanced up to ask him how he knew where she was staying, but he’d disappeared.

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Chapter Two Alec Murray swooped across the plains of the Highlands toward the Castillo Hotel in Cruden Bay, Aberdeenshire. Back to the town where he’d come face to face with Cathela in October. He spotted the hotel through the dense fog cloaking the December night sky, and excitement coursed through his ethereal form. If there was a major vampire perk, astral travel had to be it. The act of joining air and blending into the scenery connected him to the universe in a way he hadn’t felt since joining the living dead. He moved through the luxury, five-star hotel as if he’d lived there his entire life. All twenty-five years of his life and four years of his...um...death. Rounding corners of restored hallways, weaving between guests clad in jumped-up golf gear, and speeding up winding stairs of magnificence, he found the suite he had booked for his one-night stand with Cathela and penetrated the wall before swooping into his physical body reclining on the bed. He hated this part of the process. He’d feel trapped for the first few seconds, consumed by a swirl of loneliness. He always bathed afterward because it helped bring full focus to his corporeal being. The bad feelings didn’t hit this time, his mind focused on Cathela’s imminent arrival. She wanted vamp fetish, and he’d give it to her. Full on. He intended to make this night as special for her as he suspected it would be for him. After months of watching her drown in her doldrum life, he couldn’t wait to awaken her again. She needed him as he needed her. He hadn’t come across many women who had a thing for vamps and were as beautiful as Cathela. Sure, there were plenty of goths who dreamed about creatures of the night. But, in his experience, they bottled it the second they suspected his true nature. They were happier keeping it a fantasy than discovering the reality. He had a feeling she could handle it, though. Which meant, if he played his cards right and kept the inhuman part of him hidden from sight, he could enjoy a whole night of feeding and making love instead of sipping a quick snack, wiping their memory, and

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disappearing into the night with an unserviced sexual appetite. When he’d spent time with her at the party, it had become clear to him why he felt the pull to get to know her. He had been unable to resist her sexuality and the brazen nature he brought out in her. But she had been far from ready to leave the vein of her boredom. Thankfully, his plan worked and she’d joined 1Night Stand to search for a lover who shared her lust for bloodletting. A thick scent of licorice and chocolate drifted up his nostrils, and the soft movement of heels pressing into lush carpeting alerted him to Cathela’s presence in the hotel. He’d smelled her blood from miles away. That’s how he’d found her when he spent a few nights in Chigwell, a somewhat upper class town of Essex, England. Her scent had lured him in and he had become obsessed with watching her, returning from his home in the Highlands to see her often. After weeks of observing, he had decided he needed to meet her. The Halloween party had turned out to be the perfect opportunity, and he couldn’t have planned it better. He’d had an inkling she would wander into the dungeons alone and welcome his embrace. He changed into an outfit more fitting for a dark-prince-wannabe and proceeded to prep the room for her arrival. Deep red candles filled several wrought iron candelabras that surrounded the bed and the claw-foot bath. He lit them, turned off the electric lights, and shut out the rest of the world by closing the draperies. Perfect tunes were next and he grinned at his pick. Love Song For A Vampire, by Annie Lennox. Last but not least, he placed black silk ropes and a lace blindfold across the crisp linens of the hotel bed. He wanted to immerse her in her fantasy, to bestow upon her what she’d always longed for. Perhaps then she’d not be too shocked when he bit her later in the evening. She rapped at the door. “Alec?” “Enter.” The lock clicked over as she used her key, the sound welcomed by his eagerness to be in her company. When the door handle eased downward, she made a breathtaking entrance, gothed up to the nines. “So, Alec, it is you? You are Dracula. I did hope…. Wow, you’re hot. Hotter than I remember. And your hair? It’s shorter? Did you get it cut special for 14

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tonight? For me?” Words spilled out before she even entered the room, and he battled to stop a grin from forming. A smile would expose his mouth un-fanged and that would confuse matters. His fangs only protruded when he was aroused, pumped with adrenaline, or while feeding, so it was only a matter of time before that happened around her. “And thanks for choosing this hotel, another piece of exciting history in Cruden Bay, what with the curse and ghostly tales. It’s good to be back in the area...this place is good for the soul.” She swept her hair back and dropped her huge overnight bag to the floor. “Bram Stoker visited these grounds when writing Dracula. Figured ye’d want tae stay in Ecclesgrieg House as the Castillo chain has done a wonderful job restoring it back tae its eighteenth century glory. Thought it would help set the scene. Besides, Cruden Bay is where we met so it’s the right place to indulge our fantasies. This town is where it began.” For you. She squealed. “How exciting, I didn’t know there were Dracula connections to this place, too. But the hair? Why’d you cut it off?” “I had a wig on for the ball as a part of the costume.” He was well aware of the irony—a real vampire dressing up as Dracula to attend a party in a castle thought to be the inspiration for such a story. But he’d known that’s what she liked. That’s why he’d gone to the trouble to find an authentic costume. The glasses had been the final touch and the perfect cover for his true nature. “I like the leather pants. And what material is your shirt made from?” She moved toward him, eyes wide with desire. “It’s very Lestat.” Exactly. Looks like my plan to appear “mainstream” vampire-esque like has worked. She doesn’t suspect me of being an actual vamp. But will she notice the coldness of my skin? Not many do. And if she does, how will I explain it? He didn’t have much time to consider this for she slid her hands across his chest, stroking the gossamer, black shirt he wore. “Yum.” She ventured beneath the shirt and over his skin, showing no obvious reaction to his temperature. “I had a couple of drinks in the bar downstairs because I was nervous.” “Was?” He grabbed her wrists and eased her hands from his chest. 15

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“Still am.” She bit at her lower lip and sent a pleading gaze his way. “Just a bit.” He’d had her pegged right from day one. She wanted danger, needed it. The type of peril that, almost but not quite, would take her to the place of no return. The safe kind. If she knew the truth, then perhaps she wouldn’t feel as safe as she did. “I’m glad ye decided tae do this, Cathela. Ye won’t regret it.” “Hmm, yeah. About that. Why didn’t you give me your phone number or something? This date didn’t come cheap.” “I wanted ye tae understand what ye were agreeing tae before meeting with ye again. 1Night Stand was the best way tae do that, so ye had time tae process mah offer and needs. Yer needs, too, Cathela. Ye knew mah expectations before we got together, so there’ll be no misunderstandings. I fully intend tae drink yer blood. Are ye still okay with this?” This was a question he always asked before going any further. And at this point, his date would usually run out on him. She reacted as he had hoped, with a self-assured nod. “And I take it Nick is out of the scene now?” “Yes—”Alec put his finger to her lips and lulled her into silence. He had heard all he needed to, and now needed to relax her so she could enjoy herself. She gazed at him with need, stirring animalistic desires and awakening his fangs. Now would be a good time, he figured, to set up his “fake vampire” image. He opened his mouth to draw attention his pointy canines. She couldn’t know they were real. That’s why he’d brought along the blindfold and ties, so he could control what she saw and felt. It suited both their needs since she said she wanted goth kink on her online profile. “Crowns. Do ye like?” He mimicked a hiss and she purred in delight, racing to feel them. She pressed the pointed edge into the pad of her thumb and let it pierce her skin. A droplet of blood spilled on his tongue and the rich, metallic taste teased his starved soul. He wrapped his tongue around her thumb and sucked. She giggled. Her pulse had quickened, thumb thumb thumpty-thumb, and echoed down to his very depths. But the sampling had to end before the hunter in him took over and showed his true face. “Tasty.” He grinned. “Music?” He sought to distract her. “Music!” He directed 16

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his command at the voice activated sound system. This room had been kitted out with all the spoils of life. A song, one of her favorites, spilled from multiple speakers. He watched her reaction, amused that she realized the trouble he’d gone to. Her eyes widened at the present he’d laid out on the bed, and she raised a brow before racing over to investigate further. “Ye like?” “Very much so.” She peeled her purple crochet sweater off and revealed a sexy, black dress that hugged her a little too tight. He liked that. Liked the knee length patent leather boots she wore, too. And the fishnets. He had a hard on from just a quick gaze up her sexy legs that went on and on. “Dance with me?” She swirled to him and swung her hips in a provocative manner. He whipped his arm around her, spun her, and pulled her back against his chest. She leaned into him and slid her arm around his neck. Her full bottom squished against him and cradled his cock in the most delightful way. Taunting himself, and savoring the moment of ecstasy and acceptance, he swept her black hair to the side to expose her neck. Her heady, decadent scent seeped into his nostrils and made him high on lust. Unable to stand it any longer, he copped a handful of breast and a nipple grazed his palm in the process. How he’d like to wrap his tongue around that hard nub. The more he thought about it, the more he could feel it protruding hard against the Lycra she wore...no bra? He wanted to sink his teeth into her and begin a feeding frenzy right there and then, but he couldn’t. Not yet. Not without the blindfold. Not when he craved her so badly. He couldn’t take the chance of her seeing his cat-like stare glowing in the darkness. He had to control himself or get her bound ASAP. She couldn’t find out about his secret. The less she knew about him the better. One night. That was the deal. “Fuck it.” She pivoted to face him and ripped at the dress, revealing two very beautiful breasts with rosy nipples pointing straight at him. She removed a broach from the neckline of her dress. He remembered her wearing it on Halloween; a cheap, costume piece. Once she had folded out the pin, she took it 17

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to her cleavage and trailed it along the surface of her skin just above her left breast. She kept going until she made an inch long scrape, and blood trickled. Red, thick, and acidic in scent. Alec couldn’t take his sight off her offering. “We’ve both provided healthy blood tests, so let’s do it.” She licked her lips. “I’ve always wanted someone to drink my blood...will you do it? I’ll drink yours, too, if you want me to.” Alec grabbed her wrist before she had a chance to bring down the point to his skin. “No, I don’t want ye tae.” “I thought you wanted this?” “I do, but yer not biting me...ye got that? That isn’t in the deal.” “Testy.” Cathela moved back a step. She seemed pissed off, and he couldn’t have that. He moved, maybe a little faster than he should have, and wrapped his arms around her so her breasts pressed into his chest. Before she could protest, he bent and licked her open wound. The instant his mouth met with her chest, she went limp in his arms. He supported her and his lapping was replaced by a gentle suckle. Before he knew it, he had no control over his hunger and he fed from her sweet taste of copper and licorice. Thick particles of Cathela dripped down his throat, filing his body with her sensual desires and nutrients. His cock, already sprung for action, told him to fuck this woman senseless. It’d been so long since his feeding had turned into sexual pleasure. He ripped her dress the rest of the way down the front and knelt to kiss her on her flat stomach. He loved the way his lips bounced off her smooth skin, and the scent of her arousal wafted toward him, begging him to keep at it. He paused, concerned he might be overwhelming her. “Is this okay?” “No...yes.” Her comment made him chuckle. He ripped her panties off with a force he knew she’d enjoy. What a sight. She’d gone Brazilian on him. He dove straight to her swollen lips and licked her up. The murmuring sounds of pleasure she made edged him to keep going. He’d almost forgotten the taste of a woman and pushed further into her sex, moving his face side to side while his tongue pleasured her clit and his chin dug into her entrance. 18

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She gripped his shoulders, her long nails sinking into his skin, and she cried out for more. Seconds later, her pussy clenched and she creamed in his mouth. He lapped at her, savoring everything she had given him, then licked his lips. In his hurry to please, he had forgotten one major thing. He hadn’t blindfold her yet. Panic settled in. He had to think of something. His sight keener and his senses sharpened, he knew he had turned. “Where’d you learn to—” “Drink? I’ve got everything we need tae make Dracula’s Kiss. Want me tae make ye one?” He turned his back to her, using the cocktail as an excuse to hide his face. He knew his vampire side was screaming to come out and play because his skin had become taut around his bone structure. He focused on calming himself, lulling his cock to settle down so he could return to his human appearance. “Hmmm, yes. I’d like Dracula to kiss me, please.” She ran a hand across his back, her touch gentle and loving. “Would you like some help?” “Why don’t ye get comfortable on the bed, I’ve got this covered.” Cathela tsked and backed away. “I’m not done with ye yet. But a drink first. Ye still seem a little tense.” Alec went about making her a drink, his hands shaking as he tried to calm himself. “Okay.” Her tone suggested she wasn’t happy, but still, she stepped toward the bed, her tread soft and slow which relaxed him, giving him more precious time to become Alec again.

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Chapter Three “Where have you been all my life?” “Right here, Cathela, I’ve been right here.” “You live in Cruden Bay?” “Erm, no. I mean, I’ve always been around. Ye understand? I’m going tae bathe and I wonder if ye’d care tae join me?” Nice avoidance, Mister. Alec slipped out of his clothes then paraded the hotel room, naked, like he wore the finest designer suit. Confident and proud. And he had every reason to be proud. She twisted her neck so she could cop an eyeful of his complete glory. His butt, tight and full. His legs as muscular as a rugby player’s. His torso ripped with a most beautiful six-pack. And she had to take a second...maybe a third...glance at his dick. Talk about hung like a donkey. “Would I care to join you? You’re such a gentlemen. I didn’t expect that. Not from a man on a one-night stand.” “I wouldn’t know because I’ve never had a one-night stand with a man before. Have ye?” “And funny, too.” “So, bath?” “If you’re so insistent on having a bath right now, why don’t you jump in while I get undressed?” He strutted into the marble encased bathroom. She considered herself a very lucky woman at that moment; a hot guy ready to do as she asked and a luxurious hotel room to smother her in lush riches. Yes, that’s lucky. Cathela slipped out of the remains of her ripped dress then slumped back on the huge bed, the mattress dipping with her weight. She slid her stockings off, enjoying the feel of the skimpy material and how it brushed at her smooth legs. Naked at last, she made her way to the bathroom but paused at the open doorway to flick her hair into place and check herself out in her nakedness. She removed her glasses, thinking they didn’t

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match the sexy goddess image she wanted. The world became fuzzy, like the “romantic lens” soap operas gave older actresses. Not bad. Here’s hoping he agrees. She rounded the door and found him up to his neck in bubbles and steam from the hot water. He grinned and blew bath foam in her direction. “Water’s great, and check out the size of this...tub.” He winked. “Hmmm, looks good.” “Come on then, get in.” “I meant you, not the bath.” “Come on...I won’t bite unless ye ask me tae.” “Hotel soap makes my skin dry.” “Live a little.” Cathela shook her head. “How about ye get over here and sit next tae me, then, while I get cleaned up.” “Sure.” She pulled up a wooden chair and parked it next to the bath. He gave her a wet sponge. “I need some help.” “Be glad to.” She dipped the sponge in the warm water and raised it over his chest before squeezing out the excess. With tentative care, she washed his chest, over his shoulders, and down his back. The water trickling down every ripple and curve of his six-pack mesmerized her. He shifted his weight and closed his eyes. Time to get more intimate. She dared to venture under the water and wiped the sponge over his thick, engorged shaft and around his balls, squeezing and applying pressure so she could feel him through the thick barrier. He moaned and leaned back in the bath, his legs spread wide. That was her cue to use her hand instead. Up and down, around and across. He grunted and grabbed hold of her wrist, guiding her motion and tightening her hold on him. One more long, slow stroke and he shot his delight into the warm water. Cathela reached over the tub to kiss him but he threw his arms up and pushed her away, making a huge splash and soaking her. “Go tae the bedroom, now!” He threw his arms up and covered his face, his tone demanding and panicked. “Alec?” “Go and put the blindfold on.” 21

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“But—” “Don’t question me, damn it. Do as yer told and trust me.” His voice softened a little. “I’ll make it worth yer while.” “Fine.” She had no idea what the hell had happened, but his commanding tone excited her and reminded her of the interlude they’d shared in the dungeon. She raced to the bed and caressed the exquisite crochet of the lace covering. “Isn’t the point of a blindfold to deprive my sight? I’ll still be able to see through this!” With what little I can see without my glasses that is. She placed it over her face to test it out. Sure enough, she could see through the flimsy material, black mesh filtering her sight. She could still make out her surroundings, just, but if this was the game Alec wanted, she’d play along. “Is it on?” “Yes.” She put a loose knot in the back and waited for him, assuming what she hoped was an alluring pose, propped up on an elbow. Alec moved toward her. “Cuff me, big boy.” She chuckled, got up on her knees, and crossed her wrists. “When I’m ready.” He climbed onto the bed and set about fixing the lace over her head. Double, no triple, knotting it. “Turn around.” “Yes, Master.” She obeyed without pause or thought. “That’s right. I’m yer master tonight. And ye had better do as I tell ye.” “Of course, Master,” she cooed, moving to touch his mouth, but before she reached her planned destination he grabbed her wrists and tied them together with the silk binding. He pushed her so she fell back on the bed. The mattress bounced with the force, lifting her for a second, before cradling her body. She let out a squeal. “Ye do as yer told.” The harsh tone of his voice sent waves of pleasure to her sex and made her moist with excitement. She wanted to reach out and touch him, to pull him to her. But she was bound by silk and her commanding lover. “Touch me, Alec.” She couldn’t see his facial expression too well through the mesh veil, but she could have sworn he smiled. He forced her legs open and let out a guttural sound of pleasure before nipping the mound above her sex. The 22

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sensation of pain and pleasure made her wriggle and moan. First, a piercing of penetration from his teeth? Oh hells to the yes. Then he licked her swollen folds, his teeth still locked on her flesh. She wanted to grasp the bed sheets, to grab his hair, but only had her voice to use. She screamed. Loud and piercing. He withdrew and laughed. “Ye like that?” “More!” “No, ye don’t get tae order me about. Shush, or ye’ll have the guests in the next room phoning the front desk with talk of maritals or murder.” He kissed her stomach, his touch cold and exciting, then her breast and her hard-as-rock nipples. Next he found her belly button with his tongue, which sent her into a fever of need and complete surrender. She belonged to him in that moment, with neither need nor desire to make any decisions or plan ahead. Tiny muscle spasms tickled around her tummy and settled in her clit. He stopped and she heard sounds of ripping. Condom? “Hurry up.” “Be patient,” he growled. Before she could beg for more, he sank his teeth into her neck and entered her in the exact same moment. No easing into her, no teasing; the length of him filled her. No more thinking. No more crying out for more. Pure bliss. His thrusts were needy, goal oriented, and powerful. The pull of her blood leaving her body and entering his mouth as he fed from her artery sent her into a frenzy. Before she even registered how fantastic it felt, her body bucked beneath his and rocked into an exhilarating orgasm. Not long after her spasms lulled, he ejaculated against her G-spot. The sensation warmed her and sent her sex into another explosion of mini contractions. Lightheaded, like she’d drunk one too many, she nearly passed out from the power of her enjoyment. Cathela stirred from what felt like a deep sleep. She opened her eyelids. For a second, she had forgotten where she was and why her world had been filtered with black flowers and dots. Then she remembered. Alec. Best orgasm ever. And a blindfold. She tugged it off and spun, hoping he still slept beside her. Deep in slumber, he lay still and peaceful. She slipped the cotton sheet over the pair of them and snuggled into his chest, hoping to use his heartbeat as a way to fall 23

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asleep. She heard nothing and moved her hand around, but found no beat whatsoever. And his skin under her palm was so cold. I must still be dreaming because vampires aren’t real.

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Chapter Four The sky brightened with tones of oranges and pinks, warning their night would finish soon and a new day would begin. Alec grasped the velvet curtain and cursed under his breath. “Just one date, Alec. Don’t get attached.” “What did you say?” She yawned, stretching her arms over her head. “Huh?” He snapped his sight across to Cathela, a beautiful vision, naked and sleepy-eyed. He wanted nothing more than to wrap her in his arms and spend the next twelve or so hours sleeping by her side. But he couldn’t do that. Another night with her and he’d be hooked in, wanting to spend the end of days with her. Never had he met a woman with such willingness to please not only him but herself, too. “Nothing. I just said it was time tae go.” He let the curtain fall back into place, covering up the impending daylight, and slunk into the bathroom to get dressed. “Check out isn’t until eleven. We could order breakfast. I’m starved.” Before he had even pulled his shirt over his head, she climbed out of bed and put on her glasses. She smiled then skipped to his side; bouncy, irresistible, and still very naked. The soft skin of her plump ass tempted a spanking. But he had to keep his hands to himself. Playtime had definitely finished. “Yes, ye would be hungry. I must have drained ye near dry. I’ve already put an order in for a full English breakfast. It’ll be here at nine.” He turned his back to block her out of sight and out of mind. But the mirror before him ended those hopes. She slithered close to him and wrapped her arms around his chest, peering around him and toward the polished surface. Shit, forgot about that little detail. No more subtle candlelight to distract her, either. “No reflection?” She stepped back, and a little gasp escaped her. He wanted to turn, to hold her in his arms and explain it to her in every little detail, but panic had grasped hold of him and he didn’t know how to say it without hurting her feelings. He hated that he’d lied to her. Hated it.

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“I guess not.” Get out, get out while you can. Before you spill the beans and feel even closer to her. Get out. “Alec?” Shit. Shit. Shit. He rushed into his pants and threw on some socks. Anything and everything to keep him busy, and to stop him from seeing her beautiful, stunned face. “Alec, talk to me? What’s going on?” “I’d have thought that was obvious. I’ve gotta go. It’s been fun.” It’s been fun? Oh, nice, way to hurt her feelings, jerk-off. “No way, you’re not going anywhere until I hear you say it. Go on, say it.” Say it? Say what? Oh…. “Vampire?” “So you admit it? But what about the blood tests we did for 1Night Stand? How did you manage that?” “A friend helped me out.” “I see. Are there more like you? And does this friend know about your condition?” She moved away from him, horror—no, betrayal—in her eyes. “Condition? Ye mean does he know I’m a bloodsucker? Yes, he does. And yes, there are others like me.” “Creature of the night...is that why you didn’t want me to see or feel you when you were feeding from me. Because you didn’t want me to see your face? Is it bad when you turn? I mean, really? Is it?” She reached out and ran her soft touch over his cheeks, caressing him like a mother would a sick child. “I bet it’s not that bad. Will you show me?” “Cathela, no.” He had to get out of there. He used his speed to his advantage and in a blink he stood at the door that led into the hallway. “Alec, please don’t go. Not yet. Please.” She chased after him, making his escape not so guilt-free. Wide-eyed, she stared at him. Just the way she’d looked at the Halloween Ball. How could he leave her in that state? “Why me?” He grasped the doorknob. “I have to go.” “Just answer me, please? Why did you pick me that night?” “I picked ye out long before then, and I didn’t choose ye. Ye chose me. Ye were lost, and I saw myself in ye. After watching ye for months, I gatecrashed yer party 26

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and pretended to be a barman for a chance tae talk tae ye. I followed ye down tae the dungeons tae make sure ye were okay. That’s all I was meant tae do, but....” He sighed and opened the door while keeping his sight locked on the carpet. “I never expected ye would feel the same way about me, that ye’d have the same desires that I have for ye.” “Will I ever see you again?” “Probably not.” “Because?” “I can’t, Cathela. I can’t risk getting tae close tae ye. It wouldn’t be fair. Or safe.” “I can take care of myself. Please stay, Alec. For the first time in years I feel alive, and that’s down to you.” “And how long do ye think ye would stay alive if we spent any longer together? If we fell in love? I’m immortal, Cathela, and can never grow old with you.” He opened the door, his heart heavy and aching. It had been so long since he’d felt such a connection to another being, and it hurt. He had no idea a vampire could have such feelings without a heart. “Day approaches. I must leave. But thank ye. Thank ye for a wonderful evening. I shall never forget it, or ye.” Confused, he was caught off guard when she slid between him and the door and blocked his escape. She kissed him, soft, lovingly. “Please stay, Alec. Have breakfast with me, and spend the day sleeping with me. I can love you. I want to love you. I think I already do.” “Why would ye feel so close tae me that ye’d want tae see me again? We know nothing about each other. Ye don’t even know where or how I live.” “There’s more to share than geography. Hell, I shared my blood with you. And I’d gladly do it again.” “I have tae go, I need tae....” She picked at the cut above her breasts and squeezed until blood drizzled out, not taking her eyes off him. She moved closer, trapping him against the wall and slamming the door shut with her foot. “Drink from me, I want you to...and I want to see your face when you feed from me.” The sight of her blood, and her demand, was too much for him to 27

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resist. He dove straight for her, suckling from her like a hungry baby. It took all of ten seconds for him to snap back and look at her with eyes already midtransformation—sensitive to light, keen, and alert. “Yes, feed from me, and love me.” He slammed her soft flesh against the door in a frenzy of need while he explored her body and fed. She cupped his head in her hands and guided him away from her chest. A smile washed over her face, warm and loving. “See, I’m not afraid of you, Alec. You’re beautiful.” She explored the taut skin across his face, feeling the lumps and bumps that made him more animal than human in his vampire form. He flinched from her touch for a second before nuzzling into her, warmed by her gesture. “Cathela? Do ye want tae see me again, or is it the thrill of the whole vampire thing that ye want?” “I want to see you again. You can leave the creature of the night at home if you want. But I should like to discover all the sides of Alec.” She kissed him and he near died, again, at her touch. He loved her, much to his regret, and there was not a darn thing he could do about it. “Then ye shall see me again, I know where tae find ye.” It took all the strength he had to leave that room, to leave Cathela. But had to get home before the brightness of the day hindered his safe return.

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Epilogue Cathela turned the radio volume up a touch and lit a dark red pillar candle. She then picked up a tall glass filled with her new favorite drink and took a sip before setting it back down and settling on her bed. To reenact the hot night she’d spent with a vampire, she wrapped a lace blindfold around her head. A firm knot, and the material tightened around her face. Naked, and with restricted sight, she was set to begin her new ritual to release the pent up sexual energy that Alec had stirred in her. She swept her fingers across the mesh material while imagining him on top of her, demanding her surrender. A little shudder raced down to her pussy and edged her to continue the charade. Next came a little thing that went buzz. Her purple vibrator. She slipped the rechargeable device down to her clit and pressed a few buttons until it went to maximum power, hoping the tunes on the FM station drowned out the obvious noises. Property was overpriced and out of her league in Chigwell, even with the promotion she’d enjoyed after the ball. Having a roommate meant she could still afford her apartment, but it also meant she had to be discrete from time to time. She maneuvered the device between her swollen, moist lips and found the right spot. The intense pounding forced her to throw her head back in bliss. This wouldn’t take long. It never did. But it never did a “proper” job of it, either; an empty orgasm after the best sex of her life. The tiny fluttering in her stomach began, the warning sign of her impending release. Her mind raced to images of Alec watching her like she always felt he did since that night in Cruden Bay a week before. Would he keep his promise and return to her? “Damn it.” She threw the vibrator to one side, the mood for an orgasm thrown out the window. “Have ye been naughty? Do I need tae teach ye a lesson and lock ye up?” His voice echoed through her and pulled at her heart. A tear swelled in her eye and smeared into the woven fabric around her face.

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“I said, do I need tae teach ye a lesson and lock ye up?” She hadn’t imagined it, had she? She sat, dying for it to be true but trying her best not to get her hopes up. “Alec? Are you here? Are you actually here? Or am I going barmy, imagining you, hearing your voice again?” Through the lace and lack of glasses, she could make out the figure of a man. A fire began burning in her tummy and spread across her whole body right down to her pinky toes. Had he come back to her? “I’m here, Cathela. Take off yer blindfold and ye’ll see.” “How did you get in? And what the hell took you so long?” She yanked off the lace. Alec, decked out in his Dracula outfit, stood at the foot of her bed with a sly, yet sexy grin. She slipped her purple toy off the bed immediately. But she knew the action was futile, guessing he already figured out what she had been doing. “Your roommate let me in. Damn it, Cathela, I can’t get ye out of mah head.” “This has been one hell of a week without you.” “I’m so sorry, pet. I had a few things tae sort out. But I have dropped by tae watch ye from time tae time...erm...every night.” “You’ve been watching me?” Heat rushed to Cathela’s cheeks, wondering if he’d seen other times she’d pleasured herself. “Yes, tae check ye were alright before starting mah night. I’ve brought ye a gift.” “What is it?” Cathela dived to the foot of the bed and kneeled before him. “What have you brought me? “Mah grandmother’s broach.” He placed a little black box into her hands and tilted his head down, perhaps anxious she wouldn’t like it. She thought it cute how fragile he appeared. “Family heirloom? What a thoughtful gift.” She flipped the delicate box open and gasped when she saw a beautiful butterfly shaped broach with two huge, oneinch diameter rubies set in a cluster of diamonds. “Do ye like?” “No.” “Oh, heck. I’m terrible at gifting. I just thought ye deserved the finer things in life. If there’s anything ye’d like, I can take ye shopping. The stores are open late 30

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tonight, for the last minute Christmas shoppers.” “No, I don’t like it. I love it. Oh, thank you.” She reached up and wrapped her arms around him, squeezing him so tight she thought she might burst, and planted a kiss on his neck. “I didn’t know you were coming so I didn’t get you anything. Oh wait, I bet I have something you’d like that I can give.” She lifted the antique bling from its velvet nest and opened the clasp before taking it to her chest. But she didn’t get that far. He grabbed her wrist and shook his head. She leaned back, stunned by his refusal. “I’ve not touched ye for a whole week. I want tae love ye, tae hold ye, ye ken?” His eyes, of the palest blue, seared straight into her heart and she knew she’d not done anything wrong by her gesture. She also felt sure he wanted to spend eternity with her. Of course, that had different meaning now. “Alec, can I ask you a question?” “Yes.” “Why are you dressed like Dracula?” “Another gift for ye. I thought ye’d enjoy seeing me in this again.” He grinned. “Why, thank you. You do know how to shower a girl in wonderful gifts.” She moved into him, the rough material of his costume rubbing at her naked skin and teasing at her already wet and ready pussy. She kissed him, wrapping her tongue around his and expressing her need and love all at once. Heat penetrated her, and seared straight to her heart. Barely able to breath, she pulled back and realized something. She loved a man she didn’t know much about. “Tell me something about you, Alec.” “Like what?” “Hmm.” She thought for a moment. “Like what do you do? “I hunt down sexy women tae seduce in dungeons.” “Ha ha, no, seriously what do you do?” “I don’t do anything.” “Alec? Please?” “I was born with a silver spoon planted up mah butt, so I don’t do anything. Happy?” “Rich and gorgeous? I totally hit the jackpot!” 31

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“That’s debatable. I think it’s me who hit the jackpot.” He slipped an arm around her waist and eased her back onto the bed, his lips pressing against hers. And she lost herself in Dracula’s kiss once again.

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~ABOUT THE AUTHOR~

JoAnne Kenrick, an ex-Ghost Tour Guide and Holistic Therapist, is a Welsh lass who has lived in various countries around the world. She now calls North Carolina her home, where she lives with her husband, two children and a lazy cat. When they aren't demanding her attention, she can most likely be found watching a vampire movie, reading or baking up a British storm in her N.C. kitchen. That is, when she isn't writing or chatting up a storm on social networking sites. You can check out her latest news or contact JoAnne by visiting www.joannekenrick.com.