Prologue

 

Newbury, England

1987

 

The vampire shivered with pleasure. Fear tasted nearly as scrumptious as blood. He threw the lifeless human aside and focused on the other child.

Not her, his brother whispered in his mind. She will be needed.

Stalking closer to the petrified girl, he leaned down, smelled her sweet hair. Tears streamed from her little green eyes. So tempting.

The black satchel heated in his palm. The talisman within burned.

A reminder.

With a low growl, he pulled back. If this was the only way to free his brother, so be it.

"Pay close attention," he said softly to the child. His eyes focused on hers, held them enthralled. She calmed beneath his unnatural allure. "This is what you will need to do."

As he spoke, she nodded. When finished he leaned close and kissed her forehead. She might remember him but his message would remain locked away inside her—a great secret to be revealed later. "I look forward to seeing you again someday, my dear."

Frustrated, he flew out the window and soared over the countryside. The starless night soothed his disgruntled mind.

You must not go near her again. She belongs to me.

If it were not for the great love he bore his brother, her blood would already be flowing in his veins.

But remember, she is but a means to an end. See this through and I will share.

A rush of excitement crackled over his skin. Anticipation aroused him. The wait would be worth it.