Total Eclipse of the Heart
(Also published in the Vampires for Charity Anthology 2013)
“Forever’s gonna start tonight...forever’s gonna start tonight!” The words rolled off Heather’s lips, her joy in each melodic phrase obvious to her audience.
And why not? Heather thought. Tonight might very well be the night she joined her vampire lover in his world of darkness. God knows, he’d kept stringing her along close to a year now. But Dev had promised to turn her, once she was sure being a vampire was what she wanted. The only problem left was convincing her prince of darkness that she was ready to take her rightful place at his side.
She knew that Dev loved to hear her sing. He often told her that it had been her voice he’d noticed first in the bar called Eclipse that warm April night they first met.
“Your longing brought me to you,” a seductive voice had whispered in her ear as she stood at the bar after loud applause, triumphantly ordering a drink. When she’d turned with her hand ready to slap the offender, Heather’s words had caught in her throat. This wasn’t some old letch trying to take liberties. This was a dream man come to life complete with shoulder length shimmering blond hair, wickedly gleaming honey-colored eyes, and a body to die for. He was dressed in jeans and a black T-shirt, but his jacket was butter soft leather of an unusual light grey color.
“Devlin,” he’d said in an amused tone, paying for her drink. He handed it to her. “Now tell me your name, so we won’t be strangers.”
Heather had swallowed back her words. How had he known I was going to say my mother told me not to talk to strange handsome men? “Heather.”
“Join me for a drink. Heather.” Devlin had walked into the crowd without a backward glance.
I followed, just as he was certain I would.
At first, Heather had been too starstruck to say much. Devlin had appeared completely at ease in comparison, asking Heather about her choice of song. “You’re a little young to be a Benetar fan.”
“That’s Taylor, not Benetar,” she corrected.
“Very good, Heather. But you didn’t answer my question.”
“I like power ballads,” Heather had answered sheepishly. “My older brother was always listening to music when I was little.”
“This is even more interesting,” Devlin chuckled. “Your brother liked power ballads?”
“No,” Heather laughed, losing some of her unease. “But he had a lot of girlfriends, and a few of them did. I must have heard this song a hundred times the summer it came out.”
“I noticed,” Devlin said with a touch of appreciation. “Most karaoke singers tend to stumble over lyrics, because they don’t know them. The rhythm of the song is lost. But you barely looked at the screen.”
“The version that they play as background music rarely matches the song,” Heather replied with a frown. “I mean, the song as I listened to it. There are shorter parts with no lyrics, and some lyrics get edited out. So I have to check every now and then to make sure that I’m in the right place.”
“I think we’re both in the right place,” Devlin teased, his implication clear. Then he sang, “I need you now, tonight. And I need you more than ever.” He paused, his faint smile more than a little inviting.
Devlin’s voice...it’s like pure sensation. He’s singing my song to me. How romantic is that? Inspired, Heather sang back,” If you only hold me tight, we’ll be holding on forever.”
Devlin burst out laughing.
Embarrassed, a flush colored her cheeks quickly. Grateful of the darkness, Heather moved to get up.
Devlin grabbed her wrist. “Please, don’t go.” His tone was serious. “I wasn’t laughing in jest, but out of surprise.”
Heather stood unmoving, still not sure she should trust Devlin. She watched him, expectant yet wary.
“Turn around, Bright Eyes,” Devlin sang to her. He released her wrist, then held out his hand to her. “I just am happy to have someone sing to me for a change.”
“Are you a professional?” Heather said, shifting from foot to foot, still wondering if she should ditch him.
“I was at one time,” Devlin said wearily, his expression becoming pained. “And if you’re looking to be a performer, I can assure you it’s overrated.”
Did he think she was a groupie? “No,” Heather said coolly, glad she could prove him wrong. “I’m actually training to be a nurse. I’ve only got another year of college before I can get my Associate’s degree and apply for a job, hopefully one that will reimburse my costs to get a Bachelor’s degree. With my GPA, my advisor said I’m a good candidate.”
“Commendable,” Devlin said with approval. “But I understand how with the pressure you must be under, that every now and then you want to slip away.”
Heather nodded. “I’m taking a lot of pre-med courses. I thought that college was supposed to be spring breaks and partying and all these social activities. But all I do is study all the time. I don’t have time to socialize much, not if I want to maintain my GPA for my scholarship.”
“You must have friends?” Devlin persisted. “Classmates to cut loose with? A boyfriend?”
“Lots of friends,” Heather admitted, hoping he wouldn’t detect the lie. “But no one special, not since high school.”
“I know how lonely that can get,” Devlin said softly. His hand closed over hers. Heather was surprised at its coolness. “But you don’t have to be alone now, Heather.”
Heather drew her hand away. “You’re moving a little fast for me.”
“My apologies,” Devlin said. He stood. “I just meant that I’m usually around, if you want someone to talk to.” He offered her a card. “Here’s my cell. If you want some company some night, just call.”
Heather took it, then drew herself up to face him. “Devlin, you’re sexy as hell, but something’s off here. Your jacket likely cost more than my textbooks this semester, not to mention that you haven’t said one word about yourself.” She glared at him, then handed the card back. “Are you married?”
Devlin burst out laughing again. “God, you are just what I needed tonight,” he said happily. He took her hand and kissed the top of it gently with cool lips. When his gaze met hers, his eyes that had seemed golden before now had a reddish tint. “No, I’m not married.” He stepped closer, his hands resting on her shoulders then sliding down to enfold her. “You have a plan for your life, Heather. I’m not going to hinder that. But I’d like to spend some nights with you, if you’d like my company.”
He’s offering friends with benefits, Heather thought. There was nothing to consider. All she’d had to do was feel his arms around her once and she wanted him. “When?”
“Tomorrow at dusk,” Devlin whispered in her ear. “I’ll send a car for you. Write your dorm address on this.” He passed her a pen and blank white index card. “That way it won’t get lost.”
If he wasn’t so hot, this would be too weird. Heather did as he asked, then hesitantly gave it back. Devlin pocketed it, then handed her another card with his name on it in silver lettering and his cell number. “Adieu.” He kissed her, the sudden sensation making her heart race. Then he was gone, slipping away into the crowd.
* * * *
That next night Heather had been apprehensive as she waited, sure that Dev had been a dream and that no car would show up. But a black SUV truck of some kind was waiting for her as she made her way to her dorm from her last class. She ran inside, dumped her knapsack on a chair, changed clothes, took a few minutes to freshen up, then hurried outside to the SUV. The driver asked her name, and then got out and opened the door for her to get in the backseat. He didn’t offer his name, though Heather thought he had an Italian accent. She got in, eager to see Devlin but also apprehensive. I’ve never done anything like this. What if something bad happens? She pushed the thought away. Everyone else on this campus probably does risky stuff a lot worse than this every weekend. This is my chance to have an adventure, something just for me.
The car took her to a Hilton, the fanciest hotel in town. She was shown up to a suite. Devlin opened the door when she was still a few steps away from it, attired in a business suit. “Come in,” he said. “Make yourself comfortable.’
Heather set down her purse, then cast her eyes over the room with its couches and chairs, vases of fresh flowers, and several TVs. “Very nice.” She flushed immediately at how dumb that sounded. “That’s kind of an understatement,” she added quickly. “It’s gorgeous.”
“I wanted privacy for us,” Devlin said, locking the door. He strode to the table, shutting the laptop that rested on it with a soft click. “I have something to ask of you, Heather.”
Was he going to ask her point blank for sex? This was too weird. “Yes?”
“I want you to be a donor,” Devlin said hesitantly. “A blood donor.”
Heather stared at him, blinking in incomprehension. “What?”
“I’m a vampire,” Devlin said. He smiled at her, pulling back his lips to reveal large canines, both upper and lower.
Heather let out a shriek, then darted for the door. Devlin had hold of her before she had taken a second step. “Stop,” he urged, even as she struggled in his grip. “I’m not going to hurt you, Heather. Please trust me. You are in no danger.”
Heather sank to the floor, her knees giving out. “I thought...I thought that you wanted me.”
“I do want you,” Devlin said with desire, crouching before her. He put his hand on her shoulder. “I already have other donors, Heather. But not a one of the current group likes music, not as I do.” He scowled. “I want someone to talk to.”
“Why?” Heather asked, trying to make sense of the fact that vampires were not only real, they also appreciated music and got lonely.
“Every now and then I get a little bit tired of listening to the sound of my tears,” Devlin said bitterly, standing smoothly. He turned away from her. “The words you sang last night moved me, Heather. Do you know what it is to have lived hundreds of years and feel like the best of them is past? To feel old, empty, and irrelevant?”
“You’re not irrelevant,” Heather murmured. “And you don’t look old.”
“So many humans worry about looking old when they feel young inside,” Devlin said passionately. “But there is no surgery for looking young and feeling ancient.” His expression was sardonic. “And even if there were, it likely wouldn’t be of any use to me.”
Heather went to him, her arms going around his waist. “Do you want me to sing you some Benetar?” she offered, laying her head against his strong back.
“No,” Devlin said in a gentle tone. “Sing me something happy.” He turned in her arms, sinking to his knees in front of her. “And let me lose myself in you.”
Heather ruffled his hair with her fingers, then began singing the same song she’d began at the club. Before she was halfway, Devlin stood, effortlessly picking her up in his arms and carrying her to the bed.
“I thought you wanted to hear me sing?” she teased.
“I adore your voice, but that song is not altogether happy,” Devlin said, his sad tone at odds with his lustful smile. “And the truth is I can’t wait, Bright Eyes. I want you now more than ever.”
He pulled off their clothes, Heather helping him eagerly. Then he pressed his naked body to hers, parting her legs. Heather froze, then pushed him away. “Let me get my purse.”
“There is no risk of any condition a condom could prevent,” Devlin murmured. Yet he took the proffered packet from her and slipped one on without argument. Then Heather was in his arms, Devlin’s kisses inflaming her tingling skin as he again parted her legs. When she felt him try to enter, she froze up.
“You’re huge,” she said in surprise.
Devlin bent up her left leg at the knee, groaning as he eased inside a few inches. Heather let out a sharp cry as she stretched to accommodate him.
“I’ll be gentle,” Devlin murmured, pausing to thrust very slowly in and out. “In time you’ll let me enter easily.” He resumed his kissing, trailing from her cheek to her breasts, each touch making her groan in pleasure, her lust for him building higher with each passing moment. Heather’s body’s grip on Devlin’s manhood slowly loosened. Gently he stroked her clit, teasing and probing. Heather responded at once, arching her back, want and need flooding her senses. Sudden moistness caressed Devlin’s erection, spurring him to action. Devlin pushed in further, sliding most of the way inside. Heather again let out a sharp cry at the overly full feeling.
“As soon as I heard your voice I couldn’t wait for this,” Devlin murmured, kissing her throat, her face, her lips. His left hand cupped her right breast, his right arm bracing his body as he began to thrust in long strokes.
Heather’s body loosened again, lubrication allowing Devlin’s stiff organ to penetrate deeper. She began moving in tandem with Devlin’s thrusts, sweat beading on her naked breasts.
Devlin paused, then rolled onto his back with practiced ease, his body not leaving Heather’s. His hands cupped Heather’s buttocks, pressing down forcefully. The last inches of his penis slid inside, the sharp pain making Heather cry out yet again.
“I don’t care how many lovers you’ve had before me,” Devlin said feverishly, working her hips back and forward on him as he thrust again and again. “I possess every inch of you. You’re mine.”
Heather panted, her eyes drowning in the sight of him below her, his golden eyes riveted on her, matching her body thrust for thrust. She was his. All she was had become one single powerful desire: to climax.
Devlin’s breathing became more ragged, his thrusts more rapid, each inward motion deep. Heather wavered, the climax nearing, then ebbing. She chased the teasing sensation, then pushed hard, feeling the beginnings of release wash over her, the cry tearing out of her throat with abandon. Devlin pulled her down into his arms as the orgasm ebbed. Then it blossomed anew as a second orgasm hit her with the penetration of his fangs into her skin, each pull of his mouth bringing fresh waves of pleasure. Too soon it was ending, as Devlin’s lips broke free to scream out his own release.
He slumped beneath her, panting hard, then looked up with a lazy smile. “Did I fulfill your expectations?”
“Not yet,” Heather lied, her tone wavering with post coital bliss. “But you will before I’m done with you, Devlin.”
Devlin smiled, then pulled her down beside him, slipping out of her. “I’ll say it again; you’re just what I needed.” He hugged her. “And call me Dev, please.”
Heather curled up beside him. “Do you mind if I rest before we do it again?”
Devlin laughed. “You have a few moments.” He kissed her cheek. “But tonight, that’s all I’ll allow. I’ve got too much to show you, Bright Eyes. This night will be your revelation.”
* * * *
That night with Dev...nothing Heather had shared with her high school boyfriend Carl had come close. It had been a revelation, just as her vampire lover had promised. Devlin knew positions she’d never heard of, and had skill she’d only seen the like of in steamy erotic novels. Poor Carl had been bumbling by comparison. But then it really wasn’t fair to compare a hundred year old man with a sixteen-year-old boy. In addition, there had also been the blood donation part of their loveplay, something Heather had worried was going to be icky. Instead, the experience had turned out to be exhilarating. Devlin had bitten into Heather’s neck a second time later that same evening. She’d orgasmed almost immediately, the sensation surprising Heather as they hadn’t been engaged in sex at the time.
“Is it always like this?” she’d asked tentatively afterwards, when she was lying in his arms. “I’d always thought that a woman swooning when being bitten in the movies was bunk.”
“No,” Devlin said with a half-smile. He kissed her cheek. “You’re very sensitive to my bite.”
Heather had raised herself up on one arm. “You can do better than that,” she chided. “Tell me the real reason.”
“Apologies, my nurse in training,” Devlin said contritely. “A better answer would be that you’re sensitive to the virus that gives me my vampire attributes, specifically to the numbing component in my saliva.” He hugged her. “Most women enjoy the embrace and the blood donation doesn’t hurt; there’s a small pleasure. But some—like you—are very sensitive and feel a heady rush.”
“And this virus in you also gives you the ability to heal me after you’re done drinking?”
Devlin nodded. “Yes. You’ll have not a scratch from our times together.” He laughed. “No turtlenecks required.”
“But what about exposure?” Heather asked, her brow furrowing. “You said the magic word: virus. Won’t I be vampire eventually?”
Devlin shook his head. “No. I’d have to turn you for that to happen. Small amounts of the virus—such as in my saliva—are not infective.” He smiled. “Nor is the amount present in semen.”
Heather was intrigued. “Tell me more. How do you turn someone?”
“Don’t worry,” Devlin said persuasively, stroking her hair. “I won’t do it.”
Heather lay in his arms, blissful. But what if I want you to?
* * * *
Weeks had passed, then months. Heather came to Devlin regularly, always meeting him in the Hilton. The lovemaking was mind-blowing, especially the moment when Devlin took her blood. But Heather was growing more and more obsessed with Devlin. She hated waiting for the two weeks to pass between visits, hated that she never talked to him except on the nights she saw him, hated that she couldn’t be with him all the time. She withdrew from her friends, spending more and more of her time alone, fantasizing about Devlin, about what she and he could have if he would turn her.
She was lying on the grass daydreaming about Devlin one late July afternoon when she felt a nudge with a shoe. Startled, her eyes flew open to see a pair of sparking green ones looking down into hers.
“You’d better sleep inside if you’re going to moan aloud like that.”
“Ulysses!” She pulled her brother down next to her, then shoved him. “Jerk! You scared me.”
Ulysses caught her hands in his. “I’m here because you’ve scared me. What’s going on with you? You got an incomplete in one of your classes last semester, and a C in another.”
“They were hard,” Heather mumbled. “Especially Cell Biology.” And the night before the final was one of Devlin’s nights.
“But you always used to come home over the summer,” her brother said, worried.
“I planned to take a summer course to make up the incomplete.” But I couldn’t concentrate on it, so I dropped it after the first week.
“What are you into,” Ulysses asked gently. “You can tell your older brother. I only want to help. Is it drugs? Drinking?”
Heather shook her head emphatically. “I’m fine.”
Ulysses’s eyes narrowed. “You’re not fine. Even mom and dad are worried about you—”
Her guilt intensified. “Will you lay off me,” Heather said angrily. “I worked my ass off for the last five years. Hell, before that, in high school! I got high honors and did everything I was supposed to! I want to have some fun for a change! Everyone else gets to. It’s my turn!”
Ulysses drew back in shock, his expression apologetic. “I’m sorry. I know you’ve been working hard. I just know how much this meant to you.”
Meant was the right word. Heather kept silent, unwilling to share her new doubts about her proposed nursing career.
“I want you to know that there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for you,” Ulysses murmured, laying his hand on her shoulder. “I’m always here if you want to talk, sis. And so is Diana.”
Diana, her little sister. “How she doing?”
“Taking the high school drama club by storm. In fact, that’s another reason I’m here. She’s giving a performance this weekend as Juliet, and she wanted both of us to see her.”
Saturday was Devlin’s next night. But Heather hadn’t seen Diana since she’d left to return to school after Christmas. “I’ll come,” she said slowly.
* * * *
Heather shifted in the plastic auditorium seat. Only a few more minutes to intermission. Not that Diana hadn’t been excellent as Juliet. But she’d also been the only teen with talent in the play; Romeo was sadly lacking in looks as well as talent. Heather was eager to escape her parents’ and brother’s company to check her messages. Dev had never replied about her cancelling their appointment for later tonight.
Heather made her way outside, then checked. To her delight, there was a new voice message from Devlin. But it was disappointingly short. “Call me when you get this.”
Heather clicked to her contacts, calling his cell. Devlin answered right away. “Are you all right?” he said immediately.
The concern in his tone made her warm all over. “I’m fine,” she said. “I just had to attend a play.”
“When will it be done?” Devlin pressed. “I can send someone for you after, if you like.”
There was no question that she wanted to see him. But Heather also liked that he was so eager to see her, and wanted it to last. “I’m not sure. Do you want to come to the theater and wait for me?”
“That’s not wise,” Devlin said gently. “For either of us. Go back to your dorm, and I’ll send a car like usual.”
Heather was torn. “I might not be back until dawn,” she said. “I’m with my family, and they mentioned something about a late dinner out, then my brother talked about taking Diana out for her first drink—”
“Call,” Devlin interrupted, his tone making it an order. “I don’t care if it is noon. I do not have to sleep in the daytime, and can afford to face tomorrow night a little sleepy.” He laughed, the seductive sound giving Heather a delicious shiver. “We can put those hours to better use, my Bright Eyes. I want to see you.” He paused, then sang seductively, “I need you now, tonight.”
Whatever resistance remained evaporated. “I will.” Heather assured him.
* * * *
Heather didn’t get to the Hilton until daybreak. Instead of Devlin opening the door as he usually did, a small man dressed in black answered the door after Heather knocked. His expression was cold, but he opened the door, gesturing for her to come in.
“Come in,” Devlin called from inside.
The man in black nodded to her, then closed the door after she was inside. “I’ll be outside,” he said gruffly, then left, shutting the door behind him.
“I’m in the tub,” Devlin called. “Come in and join me, Bright Eyes.”
God, all she had to do is hear his voice. Heather moved as if a moth to a flame to the bathroom. Devlin was sitting in the Jacuzzi, smiling wickedly. And his voice is nothing next to the way he looks at me with those eyes. She quickly undressed and slipped into the tub. “Who was that?”
“A guard, as its day,” Devlin answered, kissing her hand. “It’s normal procedure for me in daylight.”
“I could have waited till tonight to come,” Heather said teasingly, her double meaning clear. “What was so urgent?”
“The truth? That I enjoy our times together,” Devlin said easily. “I enjoy your desire for me, Heather. I wasn’t going to wait, given a choice.” He pulled her close, hugging her on his naked lap. “And I confess to being a little worried, too.” He kissed her forehead. “You’d never cancelled before.”
“Family stuff,” Heather said vaguely, not wanting to tell him about her family’s concern for her, or their repeated urging for her to come home for the remainder of the summer to rest. “I hoped you could meet them.”
“I think they would frown on our arrangement,” Devlin said with a chuckle. “Even if they thought I was mortal and that it was only sex.”
Heather didn’t answer. How did Devlin view their relationship? He’d just admitted it was more than sex to him, too.
“Do you want any breakfast?” Devlin offered. “I can have something sent up from room service.”
“I want to go somewhere with you,” Heather said softly. “I love being with you, Dev. I want to see you more. I know you said we can’t be like this more than every two weeks. But we could do other things—”
“No,” Devlin said gently. He kissed her cheek. “You’re my favorite donor, Bright Eyes. I’m risking enough by seeing you this much. Most donors I see only once a month at most.”
“Why?” Heather asked boldly. “You’ve never really said why that is.”
“You are mortal and I’m vampire,” Devlin said patiently. “That will change if I’m not very careful.”
Heather sat up and looked at him angrily. “Don’t keep me in the dark. Tell me the truth!”
Devlin looked momentarily irritated, then his patient expression resumed. “The vampire virus—for lack of a better label—will eventually cause a sickness in donors who donate too much blood too often. You’ve heard the vampire legends in stories, such as the death of maidens from repeated nightly vampire visits? They are based on that fact.”
Heather moved to get out of bed, but Devlin grabbed her. “No, you wanted to hear it. Hear the ugly truth. Being with me too much will kill you, Heather. You have a good future mapped out, one I don’t want to screw with.” He leaned in close, lips within a hair’s breadth of hers. “Take what I have to give and don’t ask for more.”
“I’m not afraid of turning into what you are,” she said, reaching out for him.
“You should be,” Devlin said darkly, getting out of bed. “I think we need to take a break for a while, Heather.” He began getting dressed. “I’ll walk you downstairs.”
Heather gathered her clothes, wiping back tears.
* * * *
Heather shut the door of the car, then stepped back as it pulled away from the curb. Unlike other times, Devlin hadn’t kissed her goodbye at his hotel door, or said he’d call.
I should have told him I was in love with him. That it didn’t matter what he was or what I would need to become to share his life. Now it was too late.
Heather went to her room, turned her ITunes onto Total Eclipse of the Heart, hit endless repeat, and dissolved into tears.
* * * *
“Wake up.”
Heather sat up groggily. “Who?”
“Your brother,” Ulysses said angrily. “And I don’t want any more lies. Who was that guy you went to see at that hotel?”
Heather opened her mouth to say my boyfriend, but shut it. Devlin was not her boyfriend. He was a vampire, and she was just his donor, a thought that made her flush.
Her brother took it for admission. “He’s married, isn’t he?”
“No,” Heather insisted. “We meet there because it’s easy when he’s here on business.”
“Oh really?” Ulysses said mockingly. “What business is he in?”
Heather glared at him, saying nothing. Devlin never talked about where his money came from. He rarely talked about himself at all. They talked about songs and music and movies and current events, sang to one another—sometimes duets—and had sex. Her time with Devlin had been relaxing, a diversion from her schoolwork...until it had eclipsed her life.
“Fine, don’t tell me,” Ulysses said, furious. “I’ll find out on my own.”
A shiver of fear went through Heather. Devlin had never hurt her, never so much as yelled at her. Yet he had always set the rules of their relationship, right from the beginning. And the look of the man in black at Dev’s hotel room door had spoken volumes about the kind of people Devlin knew. “No. Leave it alone.”
“No,” Ulysses said wrathfully. “You’re my kid sister and he’s taking advantage of you.”
“It’s over, all right?” Heather burst out, blinking furiously to push back her tears. But they spilled out anyway. “We broke up last night. So just leave it alone! Get out!”
Ulysses turned away from her and stormed out.
Heather closed the door after him, shaking. Ulysses was in his first year of college now for computers, after returning from 2 tours abroad with the U.S. Army. He knew how to fight and kill people. But something told her that Dev and his guards had a lot more experience.
* * * *
Heather didn’t see Devlin for the next semester. With his absence, most of her old drive to excel returned. She threw herself into her schoolwork, bringing up her grades and ending the semester with solid As. Every time her friends asked her to go and sing karaoke at Eclipse with them, she agreed, desperately hoping Devlin would be there. She always made a point to sing Total Eclipse of the Heart, hoping the words would somehow magically call Dev back to her. But he never appeared.
The phone rang just as she was walking in the door, exhausted from her last final exam.
“Hi Sis,” Ulysses said.
Something in his tone said there was trouble. “What is it? Tell me.”
“I’m going for another tour,” he confessed. “We’re leaving in only a day at most. I’m going to miss your graduation. I’m sorry, but—”
“You told me you were done,” Heather said, her throat suddenly dry. “You were lucky to come through two tours without a scratch! You can’t go back for another one!”
“I don’t have a choice,” he said defensively. “I need more money for next semester. That job I’d lined up for next year I thought was a sure thing evaporated. This is the easiest way. It’s only another year.”
“Mom and Dad—”
“They allotted us equal funds for college,” Ulysses said lightly. “It’s not anyone’s fault that you’re smarter than me and got those scholarships and I didn’t get any. I’ll be fine, sis. But I do want you to write me when you can. I’ll send an email as soon as I’m settled in—”
“You could get a loan—”
“I made myself promise not to go into debt, not for any reason. I’m not going to break it.”
This couldn’t be happening. “Don’t go, please. I can help pay for your college, as soon as I get a job—”
“In what, like another three years?” he teased, his falsely cheerful tone not quite concealing his sadness. “No, you’ve got your life on track, sis. Keep going. I can figure this out on my own. Take care, okay?”
“Okay,” Heather replied automatically. Then she carefully replaced the receiver, hating the loud dial tone for its cold finality.
* * * *
Heather’s next semester was to be her last. She spent hours sending applications applying for internships for the coming summer, and working hard to maintain her GPA. But the day before graduation, Heather stood before the mirror wondering if this was what she really wanted. How did you ever know for sure what the right path was? Maybe no one ever did.
The phone rang shrilly, the caller ID identifying her father. Heather knew it had to be serious, as he’d never called her before, only her mother had. “Hello?”
“Heather, Ulysses...he’s been hurt. Pretty bad. They’re discharging him from the army. He’s coming home as soon as he’s stable enough to travel—”
Panic seized her. “What happened?”
“Shrapnel of some kind. He’ll walk again in time. That’s the early prognosis, at least. We can be happy about that—”
Heather sat down, dizzy. This can’t be real.
“Look, I have to go. Your sister’s waiting for me to pick her up at school, and your mother’s in no condition to drive—”
“I understand. Keep me posted, Dad,” she responded hollowly, then hung up the phone. She sat there for several minutes, her thoughts more and more frantic. Then she called Devlin’s cell phone from memory, praying the number was still the same. The same voice mail message that she’d heard close to ten months ago clicked on, asking her to leave a message.
Please let him understand how much I need him. “I need you now. Tonight. More than ever. Please, Dev, I need to see you. I need someone to care.”
Heather clicked off the phone, then collapsed onto her bed, sobbing on and off. She cried herself to sleep eventually, succumbing to exhaustion just after midnight.
Heather was roused sometime later by gentle kisses on her face. She opened her eyes to see Devlin lying beside her on her bed. She grabbed him and squeezed herself tight to his broad chest, bursting out in fresh tears as he stroked her hair.
“Shh,” he said, holding her. “I’m here. You’re not alone.”
When she’d calmed down, Heather explained her brother’s injury. “I understand you’re upset,” Devlin said when she’d finished. “But you said he’ll walk again. That’s much better than the alternative.”
“I’m just scared,” Heather said, burrowing close. “He could have died, or been blown to bits.”
“But he’s neither. In point of fact, he’s coming home for good,” Devlin assured. “You should be celebrating, instead of crying, especially as you’re set to graduate soon.”
“How did you know?” Heather asked, furrowing her brow in confusion.
“I’ve paid attention,” he said lightly. “I planned to send you a graduation gift, Bright Eyes.”
“You haven’t seen me in months,” she accused harshly. “Not one call.”
“Not by choice,” Devlin answered, drawing her close. “You were losing yourself in me, Heather. I did what I thought was best for both of us under those circumstances.”
Heather didn’t soften. “You mean you wanted me to stay human because you can’t drink from me if I’m vampire.”
“Technically, I can,” Devlin admitted. “But that’s not half as fun, take it from me.”
“I want you,” Heather whispered, clutching him. “I want us to be how we were.”
“I want that, too,” Devlin said lustfully, pressing his hips tightly to hers. “If you’ll agree to break things off when they progress to the point they did before.”
Heather nodded, then her mouth sought his hungrily.
“No,” Devlin said, drawing back. “When I said celebration, I meant it.” He stood, then offered his hand, helping her up. “Go get dressed to kill, Bright Eyes. I’ll be back with the car in ten for you.” He left, tossing her a last wicked smile over his shoulder. Heather dashed for the closet, already planning the perfect outfit.
* * * *
The dinner at the Hilton hotel restaurant was lavish. While Devlin himself didn’t eat anything, Heather enjoyed dish after dish, ending with a chocolate cheesecake for dessert. Even the sullen stare of the familiar man in black lurking near the front of the restaurant couldn’t take away Heather’s joy. Because every woman that came in was looking at Devlin, and casting looks of envy her way. It was as wonderful as she’d fantasized, being out with him and being the center of his attention.
Better yet, when they left the restaurant, Heather and Devlin left together via his SUV, the man in black driving them. “Where are we going?” she asked curiously. “This isn’t the way back to my dorm.”
“To my home,” Devlin answered generously. “It’s time you saw it.”
A rush of hope rose up within Heather. He did care about her. “Why now?”
“Because you had my cell number for months and didn’t call, because I said not to.” He hugged her close. “I know how much you wanted to, but you trusted me. You didn’t try to push for more than I could give. That means I can trust you.”
They drove through wide gates, then up a long curving driveway. Devlin helped her out of the car, then up to the main front door. A muscular man opened it—some kind of bodyguard, as he was armed—and Devlin guided her up a flight of stairs to his bedroom. It was more a suite than a room, encompassing a large fireplace, several antique velvet chairs and matching couch, and a huge bed, its wooden headboard carved with an ornate oak tree.
“This is beautiful,” she said in awe.
“Thank you,” he said cordially. He closed the door, then took her hand. “Come.”
Devlin undressed Heather slowly before the fire, then lay her down on the rug. “You’re beautiful,” he whispered, as he unbuttoned his shirt. “Like a newly hatched butterfly, just spreading its wings for her first flight.”
“Help me to fly,” Heather whispered hungrily, reaching for him.
* * * *
Afterwards, Devlin held her as they watched the crackling flames slowly die.
“Would you have called me?” Heather said finally. “If I hadn’t called you?”
“I’m not sure,” Devlin answered. “But you want to know if I wanted to, and the answer to that is yes.”
Heather didn’t reply.
“You keep taking my absence for not having feelings for you,” Devlin continued, irked. “When it’s the opposite that is true. I am and remain concerned for you. I didn’t want you to get sick, Heather.”
“I don’t care,” Heather said, turning in Devlin’s arms. “The truth is I was going to ask you to turn me, if that meant we could be together more often.”
Devlin let out a long irritated breath. “I told you, once you turn, what we have is done. Permanently.”
Did he only want her for her blood? She couldn’t bring herself to ask him. “I just want you in my life,” Heather elaborated. “Why not see one another as long as we can, then turn me?”
“You want to be a vampire nurse?” Devlin said, sarcastic.
“You’re a vampire,” Heather said right back. “There must be ways to hold a job and still—”
There was a crash from downstairs, then a series of shots. A loud siren began to sound.
Devlin jumped out of bed, pulling on his clothes. “Get dressed. Hurry!”
Heather complied. “What is it? A fire?”
“Worse,” Devlin said hatefully. “Vampire hunters.”
If not for the depth of hate in his tone, she would have laughed. Instead, Heather hurried to dress. Devlin finished and turned to her, grabbing her arm. He sat her on the bed. “Stay here and don’t make any noise,” he urged. “I’ll be back soon.”
“Wait!” Heather cried. “You shouldn’t go out there! What if they catch you and...stake you?”
Devlin snorted, standing. “I’m in no danger, Heather. But I need to know why they attacked now.” He left, shutting the door behind him.
Heather waited what seemed like an eternity. An hour later, she went to the door and opened it tentatively. No one was about. But there was an ominous feeling in the air, as if something evil was lurking in the shadows, holding its breath.
“You can come out,” a female voice said in contempt. “If you’re done quivering, that is.”
Heather looked up and saw a tall woman with long brown hair walking toward her. She was dressed in a simple back dress. There was something odd about it, but Heather couldn’t think what. Then she realized the hem was indistinct, as if the woman was not garbed in cloth, but with shadows.
“Where’s Devlin?” Heather ventured.
“Interrogating the prisoners,” the woman said casually. “He told me to see you got home. If you come with me, I’ll have someone drive you home.”
“Is he alright?” Heather persisted.
“Once he drains the two hunters, I’m sure his mood will improve,” the woman said darkly. “Come now.”
Drain? As in kill? Heather followed the woman downstairs to the garage. “Why did they attack?”
“I think it’s a test of hunterhood,” the woman said with a smirk, gesturing to the SUV. “If you can assail the vampire king’s house and live to tell the tale, there’s a lot of respect to be gained. Almost no one does.” The SUV suddenly started up, startling Heather. A man was already behind the wheel. “Take her home, Vince.”
“Vampire king?” Heather said blankly, turning to face the woman.
“Didn’t you know who you were fucking?” the woman said in contempt. “Didn’t you even ask Dev who he was before you bared your neck?” She shook her head. “Women like you are the reason males continue to rule this world.”
“Ease off, Leri,” Vince said gruffly, shifting nervously. “I have no problems taking your orders.”
“Because you know I’ll turn you into a castrated duck if you don’t,” the woman said sweetly with icy eyes. She turned back to Heather. “Goodbye,” she said with an arrogant sniff, then turned and walked elegantly away.
Heather was silent the whole trip back. Devlin was a king. If he turned her...if she could make him love her...she could be his queen.
* * * *
In the months that followed, Heather resumed her affair with Devlin. But she was careful this time to hide her desire for him. She made it a point to cancel one of her bi-monthly visits with him that summer, citing her busy intern schedule. The scheme seemed to work. Her bimonthly visits took place every other Friday evening at his home instead of at a hotel.
But one thing still bothered Heather. Devlin refused to talk of turning her. He also wouldn’t let her spend entire Saturdays with him, insisting he needed to rest. Heather did what he asked, hoping that by conceding to his wishes she would earn more of his trust. That was the only way into his life permanently, so he couldn’t ever shut her out again.
It was the following spring when the illness came. At first, Heather just thought it was a spring cold, a holdover from the fast fading winter. But as she grew more and more lethargic, the symptoms became harder to push away...and impossible to hide.
“You’ve lost weight,” Devlin said one night gently, after making love. “Are you sleeping alright?”
“When I’m here, I sleep fine,” Heather answered weakly.
“Tell me the truth,” Devlin said, an edge to his words. “How are you feeling?”
“I’m tired more often,” Heather admitted. “Sunlight makes me feel sick. So does food sometimes...” she trailed off.
“Except rare meat?” Devlin supplied, his tone distant.
“I’m vegetarian,” Heather said evasively.
“Not for much longer,” Devlin said hollowly, sitting up. “Unless we take another hiatus.”
Fear blossomed in Heather. She couldn’t go through another half a year without Dev. “Turn me.”
Devlin stared at her, then shook his head. “You don’t know what you’re asking, Heather.” He got up from the bed. “Maybe our break this time should be permanent.”
Something told Heather it was now or never. She had only the next few moments to change his mind. “How can you say that to me like it’s nothing? Like I’m nothing?”
“Could you be more of an idiot?” Devlin said harshly, his eyes bleeding to red.
Heather, shocked by his casual cruelty, begun hastily gathering her clothes and dressing. All she could feel was hurt, and his next words fell on deaf ears
“It’s because I’m fond of you that I don’t want to screw up your life. We had good times together, Heather. But we’re nearing the end of our story. And unless you want this to be a tragedy instead of a good memory, you and I have to end our relationship.” He handed her purse to her. “I’ll have my man drive you home.”
Heather didn’t answer him. When she was in the backseat heading down the long gravel driveway, she burst into tears.
She arrived home to her small apartment, exhausted. Falling into bed, she fell asleep fully dressed. Near midnight, she woke in fear, a hand over her mouth.
“Quiet,” a raspy voice said, “Or we’ll gag you.” Heather kept still as another person began to bind her hands and feet. She watched in fear as several more shadowy figures came into her bedroom, wincing as the light was turned on. There were five people: two women, and three men, the oldest appearing to be the leader.
“This is her?” he stated.
One of the women nodded. “We tracked her coming and going from Hayden three times now. And she’s been seen out in the vampire’s company more than once in the past year.”
“You don’t have to bother,” Heather murmured. “He’s breaking up with me. For good.”
The leader grabbed her by the hair, pulling it back sharply so Heather cried out. “Because you’re getting sick. Devlin doesn’t turn his thralls anymore, not since we began killing his discards.”
Heather blinked back tears. “Please don’t hurt me. Please.”
“Take her to the cabin and set the trap,” the leader said. “Then send the note to Devlin to tell him to come alone.”
* * * *
Dawn came, but Heather didn’t see it. She remained blindfolded in a room as the hours passed. She dozed intermittently, wondering if they would kill her before Devlin could rescue her. But would he? He’d always come across as an honorable person, even with his cruel words at their last meeting. He said she’d never be alone again. Now that he was done with her, was any of that still true?
The door opened. A man entered, cursing, then sat beside her on the bed. Heather waited for her blindfold to be removed. Instead, there came a sharp stabbing pain as a blade cut across her left wrist. Heather struggled, blood trickling out steadily to dampen the mattress beneath her.
The door opened. “You do her? He should be here in a few moments.”
“Yes,” the man said in disgust, getting up. “We could have let her go. We didn’t need to kill her.”
“She’s contaminated. Plus he’ll smell the blood and go for her. It’s an advantage we need. Now come on.”
The man left, the door closing.
Heather struggled to sit up, woozy. With maneuvering, she put pressure on the wound as best she could, pressing down with her other wrist to staunch the blood.
Shots sounded, then a shriek of rage. There was a male scream, then silence.
Heather felt herself drifting. She sagged down on the bed.
The door burst open. Heather felt herself being pulled upwards into a sitting position, the blindfold lifted. To her disappointment, it was not Devlin, but instead the man in black, his expression bitter.
“Can you walk?” he asked, his inflection muddled with an odd hiss.
Heather swayed, then fell backward. The man in black caught her, then lifted her in his arms. Muttering, he carried her quickly from the room as she lapsed into unconsciousness.
* * * *
“Just turn her,” a hissing voice said.
“We’ll drop her off at the hospital,” a dispassionate voice said. “They’ll give her a transfusion.” It was Devlin’s voice. But it was so cold. Heather opened her eyes. She was sitting in the front seat of a SUV. Her slashed wrist had been bandaged, but it was still bleeding slightly.
“Turn her,” the man in black said, facing Devlin with a scowl. “She’s one of those that’s just going to be a pain in the ass until you do.”
Devlin’s gaze flicked to Heather. “Leave us alone for a few moments, Lash.”
The man in black walked away a short distance, muttering under his breath. Then came the touch of Devlin’s cool hand in hers as he leaned down beside her. “Where do you want to go?” he asked gently.
“Why don’t you want me?” Heather murmured. “I’ve tried to give you everything you wanted. You’ve got to know I love you, that I want to be with you. I’d do anything for you.”
“You naïve girl,” Devlin said with sadness. “I don’t want you because I don’t want anyone.” His expression was bitter. “You see me only from your point of view, that I must have suffered all the loneliness and hurt of the past two centuries only to be waiting for you to come solve all my woes with your love. But that’s fantasy, Heather. It always was.”
“Don’t you want to be happy?” Heather managed, tears trickling down both cheeks.
“I exist for my own reasons,” Devlin said coolly. “I don’t want your pity. You say you love me, but you have no idea of what I really am, or what horrors I’m capable of. You think forever is a romantic holiday we could spend together if you were a vampire, too. The reality is that this is what you’d have to look forward to: being hunted, alone, and often injured. And that’s besides having a liquid diet that never varies.”
“Why didn’t you let me die?” Heather whispered.
“Because those hunters hurt you because of me. Now do you want to go to the hospital or not?”
“Will I die if I don’t?” Heather asked. “Or will I turn?”
“You’ll die,” Devlin said tiredly. “But I’m done trying to be persuasive. Lash is right about that being of no further use. You want to turn, I’ll do it next week.” His voice turned cool. “If you want to die, I’ll help with that, too, here and now.”
His words had a chilling effect, shocking her into awareness. “Hospital,” Heather said.
* * * *
Then had come tonight, a week later. With several transfusions, Heather had felt almost as good as new. But after so many delays, she half expected Devlin to back out, or not show. But the vampire was waiting for her, clapping as she sat down at her table.
“Did you change your mind?” he said abruptly.
“No.”
“Very well,” Devlin said, offering his hand. “Come.”
* * * *
The next evening, Heather’s eyes popped open. At once, the vivid colors of her surroundings dazzled her. Then she worried that someone was in the room with her, only realizing some moments later that the person she was hearing was out in the hallway. Her hearing and sight had amplified. What else had changed?
She stood, checked the time, then headed to the bathroom. When she finished, she washed up and got dressed. Emerging, she checked the clock again and did a double take. She’d done everything in less than a minute flat. Her speed had also increased.
What else?
Lifting the bed was easy, as if it were a bag of groceries. As she set it down, Devlin came in. “How are you feeling?”
Heather rushed to him, hugging him. “I feel fantastic! You didn’t tell me how wonderful, how powerful I’d be.”
“Because that is relative to humans,” Devlin said with contempt. “And you must always be aware of that, because it’s going to be very easy to crack bones if you shake someone’s hand too hard, or hug a friend. But older vampires like myself will also be much more powerful, Heather. Don’t let the power go to your head. You have become a very small fish in a wide and deep ocean.”
Heather nodded. “Will you teach me?”
“Tonight, briefly,” Devlin said, checking his watch. “Then I have to feed. But I’ve set you up at the hospital to work the night shift. There are several vampires that work there. I’ll introduce you. They’ll arrange blood for you as needed, until you make other arrangements.”
“Are we robbing the blood bank?” Heather quipped.
Devlin gave her an aloof look. “You’ll be working for me, after a fashion. So you won’t need to do any thievery, young one.”
Anger flared up in her at his sudden condescending attitude. “That’s correct, oh Vampire King,” Heather said mockingly. “I’m here to serve.”
Devlin whipped around, then grasped her by the throat, lifting her off her feet. Heather struggled, but to no avail, fear coursing through her.
“That is wholly correct, that you are to serve me,” he said icily. “Remember you wanted it this way, Bright Eyes. You wouldn’t take no for an answer, even with all the reasons I gave you.”
“Let me go!” Heather hissed, her own eyes bleeding to red.
“I will do with you however I want, if you put one foot out of line,” Devlin said darkly. “And bear in mind that my discipline is usually harsh.” He shoved her back, making her stumble.
“You bastard,” she screeched. “How could you do this to me and walk away?”
“Because I don’t suffer fools,” Devlin said frostily. “And I can see you are one, in spite of all your learning. I wish you luck in your new life. Adieu.” He placed a book on her table, then turned and walked away, followed by Heather’s curses.
Heather spent the rest of the night reading the paperback book, which purported to be a vampire handbook. Devlin was listed as one of the authors. Angry as she was, Heather wanted to know her rights.
But dawn had her halfway through and seeing no help. She was not an oathed one—something like a vampire spouse complete with signature jewelry to denote their station—nor was she a Ruler—a vampire that oversaw a territory like a city, state, or country—and vampires aside from those groups seemed to have few rights. The book was more a list of what they were not allowed to do, which was pretty much call attention to themselves in any way.
There was a knock at the door. Heather knew suddenly it was her brother. She could smell his cologne. Heading to the window, she slipped out. She couldn’t let him know what she’d become.
Heather wandered the night, wondering at how vivid everything looked. Much as she felt wonderful, she also felt empty and alone. Who could she turn to? She didn’t know any other vampires except Devlin. Maybe the job at the hospital would provide some relief. She would take Devlin’s offer, at least for now.
* * * *
While Jason and the other orderlies at the hospital were nice enough, they had all made it clear that Heather was on her own. She’d hoped to learn the vampire ropes from them, but they pretty much worked their shift and went home after. How was that a fun way to spend forever? It felt to Heather like she was back in school, except there would be no reprieve this time. She hadn’t finished her nursing schooling, so had to make do with janitorial work and medical technician duties. Even with her new speed, there was no way to finish her degree and work her job in the few hours that night lasted.
That first month Heather went faithfully to her job each night out of fear—the other vampires had told her stories of Devlin, and what it meant for vamps that crossed him. But less than a month after she turned, Heather reached her limit. Friday night she went to Hayden, remaining before the gates until Devlin came out to see her.
“What is it?” he snapped.
“I want you,” she whispered.
His eyes narrowed. “We are not oathed, Heather. You can demand nothing of me.”
“But you always use sex as part of the turning process,” Heather replied. “Jason swore to it. I demand that right, to share that with you as vampire.”
Devlin eyed her, then slowly nodded once. “Come in then, and receive your due.”
Devlin led her to his bed, removing their clothes. As he always did, he was gentle as he made love to her. But as she climaxed, he bit into her. Instead of orgasmic pleasure, there was only a sudden feeling of terror, then pain.
Heather broke his hold on her, moving away. Devlin watched her, then inclined his head. “You see how it is? That sensitivity you had does not survive the turning, just as I knew it would not.” He got up and began to dress.
“Why didn’t you tell me?” Heather yelled.
“Would you have believed me?” he scoffed. “No. When you’ve only had pleasure, you couldn’t fathom feeling fear and pain. But vampires have instinctive fear of being drained. It’s one of the few ways they can die. So they seldom drink from one another.” He finished dressing. “Please get dressed, and one of my men will show you out.”
As he left, Heather collapsed into tears.
* * * *
The next week was a blur of days of work, feeding from cold, bagged blood, and studying the damned vampire handbook. But there was no help for Heather in it. She felt cursed and rejected, the seed of anger festering within her until it became full-blown rage. That night after her shift, she followed a teen into a dark alley. When he turned on her with a gun and a grin of surprise, demanding money, she slaughtered him ruthlessly, finding a fleeting relief from her pain in his blood.
Heather killed all that next week, determined that if nothing else it should bring Devlin again to her door. She wanted out of this life, but couldn’t bring herself to do it. Instead, Ulysses found her, blood from her fourth victim still staining her hands.
“What happened to you?” he whispered in horror, as she let the corpse drop from her arms.
“A vampire named Devlin Dalcon,” she said emptily. Then she was crying in his arms. Yet even as he comforted her, she wanted his blood, the rush of it in his veins deafening. Heather fled that night to her apartment, not answering her brother’s pleas through the locked door to let him in.
The next night, Heather left early, avoiding her brother’s sleeping form with her newfound stealth. Skipping work, she instead went to stalk a victim. As she was closing down on the woman to snap her neck, the mark turned. Heather recognized a familiar face a split second before the crossbow bolt pierced her heart and she fell, paralyzed. The machete blow descended, severing her head a moment later.
* * * *
“Your nurse is dead,” the man in black reported. “The Van Helsing Group sent their usual gross notice. I burned it and scattered the ashes.”
Devlin let out a sigh, looking out over his deck into the silent and dark woods of his estate. “I know, Lash. I felt her die through the bloodbond.”
“Probably best,” Lash answered. “She was killing randomly and I’d have had to put her down this week.”
Devlin didn’t answer.
“You did what you could,” Lash said gruffly. “There’s no point feeling bad about women who won’t face reality.”
“You’re right,” Devlin said softly. “But I can’t help feeling that I corrupted her. She could have done some good with her life.”
“Maybe,” Lash allowed. “But she probably would have found something else to obsess over.”
“You’re just trying to make me feel better,” Devlin said with a faint smile.
“No, that is what state carnivals are for,” Lash said, handing Devlin a ticket. “There’s bound to be some song mistresses at this Stones concert. We’re going Saturday.”
Devlin looked over the ticket, his expression brightening. “This looks great. Thanks.”
“Anytime,” Lash replied with a grin. “I also wanted to tell you that your new girl Delilah is here. I’ve got her waiting for you in one of the guest rooms. And I told her that you’ve recently suffered a loss, and need some serious help to take your mind off it.” He winked. “I wouldn’t keep her waiting long, if I were you.”
Devlin’s expression turned to one of lust. “I won’t,” he said, pocketing the ticket as he strode inside.
* * * *
“Is this her?”
Ulysses nodded stoically, looking down at his sister’s disemboweled body. She was at peace now, maybe. But he was going to get the bastard that had done this to her, no matter what it took. “Can I have a moment?”
The coroner nodded, then left.
Ulysses touched Heather’s pale hand. “I’m sorry I couldn’t save you. I love you.” He dropped her hand, then plucked a card out of his pocket, the silver lettering gleaming in the harsh light. “Devlin Dalcon, you’re going to pay for this, pay with everything you have. You won’t see me coming.”