Date: 2013-02-27 05:00:00+00:00
Keywords: Vampires; Romance; Fantasy; Paranormal Romance; Paranormal; Young Adult; Fiction; Urban Fantasy; New Adult
Description: He wasn't supposed to remember. Callie is a royal vampire. She hunts by taking the blood from her victims and erases their memories afterwards. She goes undetected until a victim named Chase approaches her with all his memories intact. He is intrigued and attracted. She is terrified. What happens when a human mixes with the immortal world? Chaos. Callie’s 18th birthday has passed and she is coming out at the annual blood ball. Will she find a mate or will she suffer the repercussions of her indiscretion? She is brought to the Vampire council and they must decide what to do with Chase. Do they
Publisher: Smashwords Edition

Devour

Copyright 2013

Andrea Heltsley

Andreaheltsley.blogspot.com

ISBN:

Ebook: 9781301339754

Print book: 978-1482639834

Cover Illustration by

Parajunkee Designs

Copyright 2012

Edited by Final Edits

Interior Design by Once Upon a Time Covers

This is a dpgroup exclusive.

Devour

Andrea Heltsley

Callie is a royal vampire. She hunts by taking the blood from her victims and erases their memories afterwards. She goes undetected until a victim named Chase approaches her with all his memories intact. He is intrigued and attracted. She is terrified. What happens when a human mixes with the immortal world? Chaos.

Callie’s 18th birthday has passed and she is coming out at the annual blood ball. Will she find a mate or will she suffer the repercussions of her indiscretion? She is brought to the vampire council and they must decide what to do with Chase. Do they kill him, or turn him to protect their secret?

Present day

I sit in the bed cross-legged and gently bang my head against the bars behind me. The sheets are stiff and scratchy. The pillow is flat and the room is sparse. The only amenities accessible are a bed and a small, basic bathroom. Fortunately, I don’t have to pee in public. That’s something, at least.

My hair feels stringier than usual and the desire to wash my face with something other than plain soap is strong. It’s hard to believe how much I actually miss the normal creature comforts I’m so accustomed to. I don’t think I’ll ever take them for granted again, if I live that is.

Things have gotten desperate. I never thought something like this could ever happen, let alone to me. Due to the bizarre set of circumstances, I’m being held for possible treason. The thought that anyone would ever purposely betray our kind is unthinkable and makes me shudder.

Then there’s the fact that this is dragging two royal families’ reputations through the mud. That means I have practically ruined four council members in the process. I can’t help but be ashamed of myself. It’s not really my fault, but that doesn’t change the situation.

Being royalty brings with it so many expectations to uphold, but being a teenage vampire is what really sucks. Ha, ha sucks. Anyways, I digress. I close my eyes and let my mind take me back to a time when things were simple, before him.

Less than a week ago

Sitting at the kitchen table, it’s time to drink my evening cocktail of bagged blood infused with vamp blood and caffeine. This concoction is one that only the royal family is privy to. If word ever got out, we would have a whole legion of super vampires on the loose. The vamp blood and caffeine boosts our abilities, making us superior to our followers. The ingredients can’t be ingested separately or they would have little to no effect.

Bagged blood, even this mixture, is something to loathe. Blood fresh from the source is much more filling and tastes so much better. My best friend, Jane, and I have a theory of sorts. The hotter the guy is that we feed from, the better the blood.

This could be false, although we’ve never tried to disprove the theory. We always go for the hot guys. I mean, why not? We are fledgling vampires, as well as part of the royal court. Our looks are at their prime even though our aging is slowing altogether. This gives us three years of youthful magnetism before we stop changing completely at the ripe age of twenty-one.

Jane turned eighteen last week and my birthday was the month before. It used to be a cake walk to get blood. We simply preyed on the male population of Lunar High. Now, we’ve somehow managed to graduate and are scattered out into the world.

Well, that’s not totally true. We will both go to U of V in the fall. I know the name is cheesy. Who would name a school University of Vampires? Anyway, I’m always going off on tangents. It’s an annoying habit my mind has.

U of V isn’t like your normal college for a few reasons. One, it is nestled deep within the royal lands. The campus is nearly impenetrable. Two, only royalty gets to go there. It is an elitist university rooted deep in centuries of pure breeding.

I know what you’re thinking. Vampires can’t breed. That’s a complete misnomer. We can and do breed with our own kind. There are strict rules in place to prevent diluting the lines and everyone follows them to the letter. Breaking the rules brings a stiff penalty and a visit to the vampire council. The less they know you, the better. Once you are in their clutches, you are marked and could become a required breeder at some point.

Hmm, a required breeder you say. It isn’t quite as bad as it sounds, yet I fear it. It means that you basically have a window of time to settle down and become pregnant. This would be impossible for us if we didn’t have vamp guys waiting in line for a chance at a royal. The benefits to become royalty are worth it alone.

Breeding as a royal is supposed to be a big honor and a way to carry on our heritage. It should be a blessing, but sometimes when the council orders it, that feels more like a curse. Being told what to do with your life is never fun.

I refocus on the here and now, breaking my internal train of thought. Looking up, my mother has come into the kitchen and is pouring herself a glass of our cocktail. I was so distracted that I didn’t even hear her come in. When our eyes meet, she gives me a gentle smile that crinkles her blue eyes slightly.

“Good evening, sweetheart. How are you? Are you prepared for the blood ball tomorrow night? It will be your first official outing as an unmatched female now that you are of age. I really am so excited for you.”

I groan inwardly. The ball is the last thing on my mind. It isn’t that I don’t want to meet someone special. I just don’t want to hit my first year of college already attached. Desire fills me to experience college life the way it is meant to be.

“I already have my gown hanging in the closet. The courier brought it just after sunset. I have to say, you have outdone yourself. It’s absolutely gorgeous. My only hope is that I can do it justice.”

“Oh, honey. It’s going to be stunning on you. I have no doubt the boys will be tripping over themselves just to score a dance with you.”

“Thanks, Mom. I appreciate your positivity.”

“On another note, what are you planning to do tonight, young lady? Are you going hunting again with Jane?” she asks me.

“Yep, we are going to hit The Racing Heart and get our groove on first. Then we will find our targets. I hope there are some cute guys there tonight.”

“You two are absolutely shameless. Never-the-less, I hope you have a fantastic time tonight.”

“There is no doubt that Jane and I will have a great time. It is us that you’re talking about,” I joke.

Sucking down the last of my blood and wiping my lips off with a napkin, I throw my empty bag in the trash and exit the kitchen. It’s time to get ready before Jane comes over in an hour. I practically glide up the steps in my haste to make it to my room.

Stripping off my shorts and tee, I slip into the shower and spend as little time as possible getting cleaned up. We have to use unscented soaps and hair products because our noses sense of smell is as sensitive as that of a normal human. The chemical scents are too overpowering and I prefer the smells around me instead of smelling myself.

Once finished, after stepping out of the shower and wrapping a plush red towel around myself, it’s time to figure out what to wear. The outfit in question should be as sexy as possible. My rule of thumb is the sexier the better. The desire to hook a real hottie tonight is strong and I need the perfect outfit for that.

I settle on a lavender slip dress that brings out the color in my violet eyes. Smiling at how awesome my body looks in this dress, I slip on a pair of dark purple, strappy mules and head to the vanity. Some makeup to accentuate my flawless features and a few accessories finish my look. I pull a brush through my straight, brown hair and add shimmery hair pomade to it.

Soon, the bell rings and Jane is here, waiting on me. Finn, the butler, will let her in. She hates to wait though. Jane is one royal that acts like royalty to the nth degree. None the less, I love her.

I slip my I.D. and credit card into my bra, along with my cell phone and head out of my room. Making my way to the bottom of the stairs and finding Jane in a silver, sequined dress is no shock. It hugs her curves and makes her look like a movie star. Her silver grey eyes seem to sparkle under the lights. I also love her blonde up do. She’ll definitely stand out tonight.

Wrapping her in a hug, I feel giddy. I always do when we go hunting. Then again, any teenage girl would be excited to go looking for that perfectly hot guy. Just because we do it for sport and survival doesn’t mean we don’t absolutely love it.

“I’m so ready for tonight. Let’s go before all the yummy guys are gone. I get first pick tonight.”

Jane scoffed and cracked a smile. “Fine, but I get first pick at the blood ball tomorrow night.”

“That won’t be a problem. You know I don’t want to be attached. I could care less about the vamp guys trying to get to me for my royalty.”

“Seriously, Callie, I think you should reconsider. You get your pick of all the most fabulous guys to breed with. They’ll be yours. Isn’t that enough of an incentive?”

“I just don’t want to be attached right now. I’m not ready for breeding. I want to get through college minus a boyfriend, mate or whatever.”

“Yeah, but you are royalty. You know perfectly well that the council can decide to change your status at the drop of a hat. At least then you would be ready with a hot guy of your choice.”

“I’m not worried about it. The right guy will come along and I’ll be ready when he does. I don’t need some guy just because he’s sexy. They’re fun to play with, but some of us need more than that in a mate,” I huff and pull the front door open.

Jane is parked out front in the circle drive. Opening the door, we slip into her sleek red sports car. Before I know it, we are pulling out of the drive and rushing through the streets. We make our way to the city gates and give the guards our night pass. No one can enter or leave without a pass. Security is really tight here to protect us from humans.

Once we clear the gates, Jane speeds off towards The Racing Heart. She doesn’t stop until we slide into a parking spot and kill the engine. “Nice parking job,” I joke.

“Hey, I have the reflexes; I might as well use them. I even parked right between the lines this time.”

I chuckle and step out of the car. The night is warm and my body is reveling in the feel of the soft breeze wrapping itself around my skin. Waiting for Jane, we then we walk around the corner to the front of the line.

People like us have connections. We are rich and powerful. It would be an insult to make us wait in line with all the humans. We pull out our I.D.s and flash them at the burly doorman before he nods. He steps aside and we gain access to the club inside.

This is our favorite club. We love to come here on Friday nights. Mainly because it’s the hottest club in town and we, therefore, find the hottest guys here. It has a reputation for being the best place for the eighteen and over crowd. We like it because there are less creepy, old men here.

Tonight is no exception. The music is loud and pulsing throughout. It’s packed in here. A mass of undulating bodies writhe on the dance floor to the electronica pumping through the speakers.

Since we’re vampires, we don’t drink alcohol. We head straight up to the top floor. It is easiest to see the club from up there and so we can scout out our prospects. Tugging on Jane’s hand, we carefully make our way up the Victorian staircase.

The bottom of my dress falls to mid-thigh and I have to be careful on my way up the stairs so I don’t flash the people coming up behind me. When we reach the top, I tug my dress in place and push through the crowd as if they don’t matter.

They are just human, after all. We are the predators and they are our prey. Tonight we are hunting, this isn’t social hour. The scent of blood wafting off of these humans in waves is a sweet, metallic smell that’s unique to each human. Some smell better than others. Mom said it has to do with their vitality and sickness.

We finally reach the railing that overlooks the dance floor and I take in a deep breath. It is times like this that I appreciate the ability to breathe so I can take in the sweet aroma of blood pumping through the veins of these humans.

Trying to put all thoughts of the blood ball out of my head, my focus is on the game ahead. As my eyes sweep over the crowd below, they lock on a few prospects.

The first guy I see is tall and stands out above the crowd. He has shaggy brown hair and hard, angular features. He’s hot, but not exactly what I have in mind tonight.

The next guy that crosses my field of vision is of average height. He has short cropped, blonde hair and soft, almost baby like features. My first impression is cute but in a boyish way. He is definitely not the one.

I’m looking for dangerous and edgy tonight. He should be sexy but not too over the top. I want someone that doesn’t flaunt himself around the club. Those men are weak and after one thing only. Since that’s a huge no no, he should be easy on the eyes but in a loner kind of way. There should be privacy for this, not a crowd of friends.

Jane pulls me out of my thoughts as she leans in and points over to the bar. I grasp her arm tightly. It is him, the guy. He’s so much better than I was picturing in my mind.

Leaning into her and yelling in her ear, only one simple word slips out. “Mine.”

She just laughs and nods. “It’s a good thing you get first dibs tonight. That boy is freaking hot. I can almost see the smoke coming off of him. Yummy.”

I ignore her, knowing I’ve already won. If Jane is anything, she’s loyal. Pulling away from her, my focus is heading down towards the bar. Jane’s more than capable of taking care of herself. I trust that she will find her own sexy stud tonight and we have a set time to meet back at the car. The time is always the same, midnight.

With our persuasion powers, we don’t need much more time than that. Two hours is plenty of time for the hunt and the feeding.

This guy becomes more defined as I move closer to him. He has short, messy, brown hair that screams rebel. His creamy skin is flawless, aside from a tiny scar above his left eye. I can see his sinewy muscles through his thin, grey tee-shirt as my approach inches closer. Then he turns and our eyes meet. I gasp.

My violet eyes take in the sight before me. I’m shocked to see how clear his blue eyes are. They remind me of the ocean on a sunny day. His features and jawline are strong yet approachable. He has a couple days scruff that looks sexy as hell on him. Feeling my jaw drop, I appreciate this dreamy guy.

As he moves closer, he quirks a smile and I want to melt. Wow, he is super-hot. I’m thrilled to have found him so quickly tonight. I get the weird feeling that he’s definitely dangerous. Shaking off the feeling and continuing toward him, the stars align.

Just when I get within earshot, he steps forward, bringing us inches from each other. I have to halt instantly at the smell that is wafting off of him. He smells delish. There’s no way to even begin to describe how addicting that smell could be for me.

I have to stop my mouth from watering and my fangs from descending. It’s a struggle but my instincts manage. I smile back and lean in the rest of the way, moving towards his ear.

“My name is Callie. Whom do I have the pleasure of meeting?”

I lean back and wait for him to make his move. When he does, he cups my neck and brushes his lips against my ear. Goosebumps erupt across my skin as he says, “I’m Chase. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Callie. Would you like a drink?”

I shake my head no and take his hand in mine. His skin is callused, like he works with his hands a lot. Mm, sexy is all that I think as my mind is picturing him sweaty from working. Gah, I have to get my mind out of the gutter and focus.

Giving him a come hither smile, he follows me onto the dance floor. Turning around, he’s already closed the gap between us and has his body inches from mine. Once again, I struggle to remain in control. This is so unlike me. I want to taste him, take his blood right now. I’m so thirsty suddenly.

Brushing my hair out of my face and tucking it behind my ears, the distance closes between us. He puts his arms around my shoulders and we begin to dance to the techno beat. My body arches into him as we move.

Briefly looking up to where I left Jane, I realize she is no longer there, but I know she is okay. Returning my focus to Chase, I release one of my trademark smiles. He lets his hands slide across my body and it’s my turn to dance against him.

He spins me around so that my back is pressed to his chest. The feel of his hands exploring my stomach and then finally gripping my waist, is intense. After throwing my head back against him, he grips me tighter. His breath on my neck sends goose bumps across my body. I let out a little sigh. This is heaven and couldn’t have gone better.

Finally, the song is done and I peer over my shoulder at him. He winks at me and causes me to almost swoon. It’s too bad he won’t remember me tomorrow. Once I erase his memories of this night, I’ll be forgotten.

For the first time ever, it makes me sad to think he won’t remember me. I’m torn between wanting him to remember and knowing I can’t let him. It would be breaking all the rules and the vampire council would be all over me. That’s something no one would dare risk.

Returning my focus to Chase, he pulls me off the dance floor. Our hands are twined together and the anticipation between us is palpable. Despite knowing it’s impossible to be with a human; I can’t help but feel that he’s different somehow.

He smells so yummy that I have to rein myself in as I pull closer to him. As I do, I discretely look down to see what time it is. It is only eleven o’clock, but I am unnerved by this human and his smell is driving me wild. I’m ready to do this.

I moisten my lips and slowly tip my head up, watching as his gaze lowers and he looks at me intently. Boldly, I use my other hand to fist his tee shirt at his chest and close what little distance remains between us.

His lips brush against mine and the strangest sensation sweeps through me. It is like butterflies are trying to escape from inside of me. Something is strange about him. I’m nervous and fluttery. Ignoring the sensation, I push forward.

Our lips meet again, only without hesitation this time. His kiss is hungry and needy. It feels so strong, I have to remind myself that this is just a mere human. The kiss softens and his tongue gently explores the recesses of my mouth.

When I pull away, I’m breathing hard and my feelings are all over the place. This is unnerving. That’s when he gasps and I instantly know what has happened. My violet eyes have become more intense and bright. I have to get him out of here before my control slips.

Leaning forward again, I shout in his ear. “Let’s get out of here!”

Chase smiles and begins to tug me towards the exit. A sigh of relief that this is almost over, escapes my lips. Needing my fix, my perfect composure is waning. I can’t afford to let my human features slide.

Vampires have brightly colored eyes that glow when we are feeding. We have to be careful about being seen, so our feedings require privacy. In my case, my violet eyes glow a bright purple and people would definitely notice.

Once we exit the warmth of the club, I enjoy the soft breeze outside. Keeping my hand wrapped in his, we move further away from the noise.

“Do you live close by?” I ask breathily.

“Yeah, just two blocks over.”

“Good,” I say into his mouth as my lips land on his and tug his bottom lip gently. He lets a small moan escape.

“Let’s go before I have my way with you in this alley.”

The thought sends chills across my bare skin. Could I do it? I’ve never indulged with a human but something about Chase is so different, it makes me curious.

Truthfully, I’ve never indulged with anyone. Female vampires, especially royals, are coveted. Besides not being able to leave our city alone, we’re forced to wait until we have finished the mating process.

We must remain pure until our mating night. Then the breeding begins. Vampires don’t believe in birth control because it’s hard enough for a vampire to conceive. Every life is a blessing when it comes to our kind.

The blood ball will be the first time I’m actually allowed to begin the mating selection. Since we mate for life, my goal is to take my time and choose right, on my own terms. That doesn’t mean I don’t lust after hot guys, it’s just never been a human before.

Coming off of my tangent and trying to refocus on my present situation is hard, but I can’t afford to lose track of myself. Knowing that doesn’t necessarily make my mind stop thinking about Chase.

All my thoughts on the walk to his place circle around how he will taste as his blood spills into my mouth. Will it be sweet or metallic? Maybe it will be bitter and I won’t really enjoy it. Trying to calm myself down, my primary focus is not let my features slip. Showing him my fangs would definitely scare him away.

I hope that he tastes every bit as good as he looks. I’ve never seen anyone more gorgeous. It’s almost a shame he’s human and won’t remember this. The thought makes me uneasy but is quickly brushed away once again.

We walk in a comfortable silence, hand in hand. It takes only a few minutes to reach his apartment building. Chase unlocks the outer door and tugs me up the stairs to the third floor.

After he opens the door and we step inside, I take in the scene before me. I’m not expecting this. Usually a single male’s apartment is all modern and cold. They are always so impersonal, making it all the easier to do my job.

This place is warm and lived in. Pictures hang on the walls and the furniture is worn but not too much. Everything looks cozy. It’s better get to this before I do anything to make me regret this night.

I flash him a come hither smile and pull him to the couch. Once he is seated, I waste no time lifting the hem of my dress and straddling him. It’s all part of my calculated process. His eyes are now the size of half dollars as he drinks me in.

Leaning forward, his hands slide up my legs and settle on my backside. He pulls me closer and I’m now nose to nose with him. My control is almost completely severed and my next move is to lean in and kiss him.

After an appropriate amount of time, my kisses change into soft and gentle ones. As I move to kiss his jawline and his ear, he groans in pleasure and anticipation. I almost feel bad for my deceit.

Needing to press on, my focus is to lowering my lips on the spot just below the ear. My kisses slowly trail down his neck until my mouth finds the artery I’m looking for. I kiss the spot and gently lick it. His eyes are closed and his head is tilted back in ecstasy.

Before there can be any hesitation, I stop just long enough to take in the sweet scent of his blood calling to me. My fangs descend and press down on contact. They slice through his skin like butter as they pierce the surface of his neck.

I take a Moment to let the euphoria settle into Chase, wanting him to enjoy it. It can be a very sexual experience with the right person. It’s a good thing I’m just with a human. As soon as he gasps and his grip tightens, he moves up to my waist and pulls me closer in his excitement.

Now is the time. I know my eyes are bright so I close them to avoid questions. I bring myself back down to his neck and drink the blood that has welled up in the puncture marks my fangs made. My bloody lips let out a small moan while savoring the sweet and metallic taste of his blood.

Chase tastes amazing. No, scratch that. He tastes like nothing I have had the pleasure of encountering before. He might just ruin me for future hunting.

Letting the blood lust take over, I began to drink greedily. It isn’t until his pulse starts to slow that I manage to stop myself. Pulling my fangs back out and gently licking his wounds to seal the puncture marks, they heal instantly.

Then, licking the remaining blood off of my lips, my attention returns to him. My hands pull his face to me until we’re looking each other in the eyes. A gasp escapes him as he notices the inhuman flash of violet in my eyes. It can’t be helped; I need to erase his memories.

“You will go to sleep once I leave and remember nothing of this night. My presence will be wiped from your memory. You came home from the club alone. As soon as you hear the door shut behind me, you will forget.”

I can’t resist so I steal one last soft kiss before sliding off his lap and fixing my dress. Then it’s time to open his front door and leave.

I’m high on his blood and grinning like an idiot. The euphoria my feeding brought on is like nothing else in the world. Cloud nine floats above me and the walk is spent remembering how perfect his blood tasted on my tongue as I drank ravenously.

By the time I reached the car, Jane is leaning against it. She is picking her nails, a sure sign that she is bored and has been waiting a while. It’s my turn to hurry up and mumble an apology. Looking at my watch, I realize that it’s five after midnight. Oops.

“Girl, where have you been? I’ve been waiting here for ten minutes. My night finished a few minutes early.”

“I was a few blocks from here. It was a little bit of a longer walk than I remembered on the way there.”

“Whatever Callie, let’s just get the hell out of here. I’m riding my blood high and want to get back so I can actually enjoy it.”

I get in the car and wait for Jane to start the purr of the engine. Then she bolts out of the parking lot and down the street like a bat out of hell. It only takes a Moment to roll the window down now that the night is over and I can enjoy the wind blowing through my hair. Closing my eyes, the nights’ events replayed.

We don’t speak much on the way home, as we both soak in the euphoria of the blood high. The feeling of peace and happiness flutters through me. It seems like I can do anything at this point. Instead, I’ll settle for going home.

Nathan, the security guard at the entrance of our town property, checks our passes and lets us in. Jane slows to a crawl as she makes her way down the street. She pulls in my driveway and shifts into park, leaving the car running.

“I had a blast, as usual. I hope you had half as good a night as I did.” She chuckles.

“I had an amazing night,” I reply dreamily.

Jane doesn’t respond or interrogate me, just raises an eyebrow in suspicion. I laugh and she gives me a wave. Then she puts the car back in drive and takes off.

It’s early and Mom will want to know what happened. She always does. I think she lives vicariously through me. She’s mated and, therefore, can’t feed off sexy guys anymore. My father would kill her, figuratively, of course.

I open the door to find my Mom on the couch, reading a book.

“Hi, Mom. How was your evening?”

“Oh, it was good, sweetheart. I trust you and Jane had fun on your night out on the town.”

“Yeah, it was kind of a strange night.”

“Sit down, honey. Do you want to talk about it?”

“No,” I say and then change my mind. “Yes.”

I plop down on the other end of the couch and cover myself with a blanket before pulling my knees up. “Ugh, you are going to think I am crazy. Do you promise not to tell anyone?”

Mom is one of my best friends. She never judges and she always listens. I know that I’m lucky to have her in my life. Mom nods and I take a deep breath before recounting the night’s events.

“Have you ever felt for a human?”

“No! It’s forbidden. But can it happen, yes. It just hasn’t happened to me.”

“It was so weird. I had this attraction to a guy and his blood smelled better than anything else I have ever encountered. He was different from other humans but I don’t know why.”

“Callie, listen to me. This is serious. Tell me you didn’t do anything stupid.”

“Relax, Mom. Nothing happened. I took him back to his apartment and fed. Then I erased his memories before leaving. The problem is that I didn’t want to. For some reason I wanted him to remember me.”

“Oh, honey. At least you did the right thing. Just be careful from now on when you are out hunting with Jane. Don’t give yourself that opportunity again. Stick to safe.”

“Ugh, Mom. It was just so unreal. I felt this weird sensation the minute my hand touched his. It was so different from anything else I’ve encountered.”

Mom put her arm on my shoulder and smiled. “Lucky for you, we have the blood ball tomorrow night. You get your pick of available men. Tell you what, meet me at sunset when you get up and we will go out to get our nails done before we have to get ready for the ball. I think it will be fun. What do you say?”

It’s always hard telling my Mom no to anything. She knows that. I easily give in when her eyes meet mine. “That sounds great, Mom. I’ll see you then. It’s been an exhausting night, so I’m going to go on up to my room for the night. I want to spend some time alone listening to music and painting.”

“I love you, dear. I’ll see you then. Have fun painting,” she says before standing up and exiting the room.

Making my way upstairs, I pull my shoes off and carry them. My feet definitely thank me for the gesture. My body can’t wait to get out of this dress and into something more comfortable. Tomorrow will be even worse with the blood ball. My dress is extravagant.

I open my bedroom door and shut it behind me. After plugging my iPod into the small set of speakers on my desk, I collapse on the bed and listen to the beats. The blood high is still in full force and my mind wanders as I lay there.

Chase will not leave my thoughts. I’m intrigued by him. Even though my common sense understands that he’s a mere human and nothing I should concern myself with, my mind can’t stop going there. It is some kind of personal hell to have him invade my thoughts like this because I can’t figure out what is so different about him.

If there was a way to wish the thoughts away, I would. I definitely should try. Rules are rules for a reason. The humans can’t find out about us. If they did, we would be in utter chaos. It would become a witch hunt. It makes me shudder at the idea of being hunted like we hunt the humans.

I can’t deny the way it felt when we touched or kissed. My stomach is fluttering like a million caged butterflies just thinking about it. The feeling when we kissed had a strange kind of intensity. It makes me wonder what it will feel like when I find my mate. Hopefully, it is way better.

In an attempt to forget him, I force myself up off the bed and rummage through my dresser drawers until I find an old tank and shorts to paint in. As nice as it would be to lie in bed, it is no way to spend my night.

I start by placing a new canvas on my easel and mixing my paints until there’s a variety of bold pinks, blues, purples and yellows. My desire right now is to create something intense and emotional. Driven by the blood high, I take a deep breath and the brush makes its first stroke on the canvas in a thick yellow line.

Impressionism is, by far, my favorite style of art. I love the brush strokes and how they bring the painting together to make a whole scene. It has always been a wish of mine to have been alive when impressionism was at its peak.

Shaking off my musings, I refocus on my work. The song has changed and the melody washes over me. I begin to paint a scene with one stroke, and then another, until I have some semblance of an idea what I’m painting.

My creative side is always stronger during a blood high, so that’s when my painting is the best. Using a varying method of brush strokes, I’m rewarded with an amazing piece.

I’ve painted a little girl picking a daisy out of a never ending field of white daisies. Her face is so innocent. The sun is bright and the flowers are beautiful. Stepping back, I admire my work. Satisfied, I find an empty spot on my wall and hang it up amongst my other works of art.

My walls are covered from floor to ceiling with my better works. One could get lost in a sea of colorful, impressionist art. Sometimes, I sit for hours and take in the memories associated with each work and why it’s special to me. It never fails to give me perspective.

Still feeling a little keyed up, I pull out my yoga mat and begin to stretch my lean muscles. I’ve been doing yoga since I was coordinated enough to accomplish it. It’s practically second nature for me, but it gives me a certain level of peace that I can’t find anywhere else.

It’s hard not to wonder what Jane would say if I had confided in her about tonight. Would she freak out, or admonish me for even thinking about breaking the rules? Maybe she would just lend me a supportive shoulder to lean on.

As much as I’m dying to tell her everything, my Mom’s reaction stops me. I couldn’t drag Jane into anything that suggested danger. It was not even safe to gossip about things like that. The whole thing could be misconstrued and I could end up in front of the council for it.

Because I’m royalty, I have a more important duty to my fellow vampires. They turn to us for leadership. We set the example for our whole community, as well as the cities outside our walls. All those vampires see me as a role model. Since I’m female, that makes me even more coveted and will help ensure our race continues.

I know it seems like a lot of pressure, but I’ve grown up in this environment. Politics are a dinner conversation, with no breaks in duties. Mom makes me hold many seats in charities and various functions. It is all part of being royalty. I could, someday, rule this race, even though I’m like third in line for the throne.

After feeling thoroughly stretched, I slip downstairs for another blood infusion. Even though Chase just fed me and it recharges me for the week, I still need our special mixture to maintain my strength. My eyes glow purple as I’m indulging in the blood. It may not be enjoyable, but the vampire in me still needs the blood like humans need water. It’s 80 percent of our makeup and we would go into stasis without it.

Our race is immortal but our hearts still beat. We have to pump all that blood through somehow. It also keeps us from looking like zombies and having our flesh rot. We’re still paler than humans due to the volume of blood in our system.

Just because we are immortal doesn’t mean we can’t be killed. We could be put in stasis and staked or beheaded, just like anyone else. Being captured is always a fear in our community so that’s why it’s so important for us to remain a secret. The humans must remain ignorant of our existence.

With that final thought, I finish my infusion and turn my thoughts to the blood ball. My internal thoughts don’t have long to muse over things, though, because my Mom rushes in, looking excited. Uh oh, that’s never a good sign.

“There you are Callie. I just went up to your room to look for you.”

“I’m right here Mom. What’s up?”

“The Gregorias have invited us to their bar for cocktails tomorrow before the blood ball. I told them that we would love to attend. I think the Lucias are going to be there, too.”

I groan a little too loudly. “Do we have to? I’ll see Cody and Thayer at the blood ball as eligible bachelors. I don’t need to see them before, too,” I whine.

Cody is very attractive with ear length, blonde hair and stunning, hazel eyes. Any girl would be lucky to catch his attention. Too bad I’m not just any girl. I just don’t have interest in dating any of them. It’s nothing personal. Cody is a great catch, but more suited for someone like Jane. She is actually buying into this whole coming out thing.

Thayer, on the other hand, is just obnoxious. He always has been. He spent his younger years razzing all the girls until many of us threatened him within an inch of his life. That subdued him, but didn’t stop him altogether. He’s handsome enough with green eyes and shaggy, brown hair, but he’s still stuck with boyish looks instead of those of a mature, male vamp.

“Come on, Callie. It won’t hurt you to be polite for an hour before the ball. Cody and Thayer can’t be that bad. I know Thayer was a little wild in your earlier years, but I’ve heard he’s really grown up. This is a coming out party; you need to see the males. They also need to see you. Don’t hide like you usually do. I expect you to participate in this event. “

“But, Mom,” I start.

“No buts this time. This is the rest of your life we’re talking about. If you don’t take control of it, then I will. You may be eighteen, but until you’re mated, you live by our rules. I don’t like blackmail, so don’t make me resort to that. This ball is about dancing and mingling. You are going to participate and have fun doing it. Am I making myself clear enough, young lady?” Mom asks sternly.

Defeated, I look down at the tiles on the floor. “Yes, ma’am, I will be on my best behavior. I’ll participate and act appropriately so I don’t embarrass you.”

“That’s better. Jane will be there with you for the ball, at least. I bet she’s taking this whole thing seriously,” she quips.

“I just want to go to college and see. Maybe I’ll find the vampire of my dreams there. I would hate to settle.”

“You could just as easily find that special someone at the blood ball if you just put yourself out there.”

“I said I would try. Anything else you want to discuss before I go back upstairs?”

“Now that you mention it, there is. I promised that I wouldn’t say anything about the human situation. However, I expect you to tone it down when you and Jane hunt from now on. You are obviously impressionable and I need you to avoid any situation that could bring shame to this family. It’s not just you that would be ostracized. You should heed my warning and remember that.”

“I understand, Mom. It won’t happen again. Now can I go upstairs?” I ask impatiently.

“Fine, go. I expect you down here at sunset though. We need to get a jump on the evening now that we are leaving earlier. Good night, dear. I might turn in early as well and read a book.”

“I’ll see you later,” I say as I’m already bounding up the stairs.

I shut the door and slide down the back side of it. This is a total disaster. I can’t believe my Mom. She’s playing dirty and that’s something I’ve never seen her do before. She must really be worried I’ll embarrass her.

It should be easy to blend in at the blood ball. There are six of us coming out. My idea is to do the minimum expected and still look like I’m participating. It’s just more stressful to think about cocktails beforehand. I’ll be under the scrutiny of not just Cody and Thayer, but their parents as well. I hate being sized up and looked at like some piece of property. I prefer to make decisions on my own terms.

Putting my head in my hands, my mind runs through all the possible outcomes of the ball. No way am I coming home with a future mating ritual planned. If I’m lucky, no one will even pay attention to me and they’ll be all over Jane. She is, after all, the one who’s looking forward to this.

I know that isn’t a likely outcome. It’s no secret that a few of them fancy me. They are either interested in me or what being with me gets them. Being third in line for the throne’s a pretty big deal. If the first two in line remain unmated and produce no heirs, then the crown falls to me. That’s a lot of motivation for some vamp to court me.

How could anyone want a mate like that? It would be better to find someone that is there for me and not my royalty. How can I tell the difference? Some guys can be very convincing. Taking a deep breath, my arms push me up from the floor.

Not bothering to turn my iPod back on, I crawl up in bed. The paint on my clothes has already dried so I don’t particularly care about getting it on the bed. Everything that has happened tonight has worn me out. I’m exhausted.

Trying to calm my whirling mind, I practice some meditation techniques. It works better than expected. I’m out like a light in no time flat.

Later that evening I groggily make my way down the stairs and towards the kitchen. My entire body comes to a complete halt, however, as I hear the hushed voices of Mom and Dad. I hang back, trying to decipher their conversation.

“I wish she would take her royal duties seriously. She holds the future of this race in her hands and she doesn’t even care,” Mom says.

The words sting after processing them. Did she really think of me that way? It’s disheartening to believe they are even having this conversation. I know this blood ball is important, but seriously? Mom is completely exaggerating the situation.

“Callie’s still very immature. I’m sure she will come around after she sees how important this blood ball is. She’s never attended one before and I just know she will pull through this phase,” Dad replies.

Immature? A phase? What the hell? This conversation is growing increasingly uncomfortable as I continue to listen. I’m fighting back the sting of tears at their harsh words.

“You didn’t talk to her last night. She is veering down the wrong path, Milo. Now, every time she goes hunting with Jane I’m going to worry about her breaking the council rules. I was actually scared for her last night when she confessed her interactions with the human.”

Betrayal strikes at her last statement. She’s broken our code. It’s hard to believe she told Dad. Our trust is shattered now and I don’t know if I want to pick the pieces back up.

“We can only hope that it doesn’t happen again. If you’re that worried about it, I can put a low profile security detail on them when they go out. You’re right, she is a royal and she needs to represent our family in this community.”

I can’t believe my ears. Now they are going to have a babysitter follow me around? How had things gotten so out of hand in just a day? This is all because I told Mom about that stupid human. Damn her and her mouth. I’m on overload and can’t take any more of this conversation.

Quietly, I’m already backing up until my feet hit the stairs. My legs carry me up the stairs as silently as possible. As soon as I safely reach my room, my only desire is to flop onto my bed and let the tears finally fall.

I’m happy my state of mind caused me to lock the door when I returned to my room. Shortly after my escape, Mom knocks on my door and I mentally prepare myself. I’ll be the perfect daughter today and at the blood ball. I may not be ready to mate, but it’s clear my family’s reputation is at stake. I’ll at least try.

“Yeah, Mom, what’s up?”

“Are you up and ready to go yet?”

“I’m almost ready.” I lie. “I’ll meet you downstairs in five.”

“Alright, just hurry up. We have appointments set up and a full schedule this evening.”

As soon as my ears hear her retreat down the stairs, I bolt up and rush to the bathroom. Splashing water on my face makes the crying less apparent.

Tossing my now rumpled clothes in the hamper, I pull out a fresh pair of jeans and a lavender V-neck tee that brings out the violet in my eyes.

Satisfied, I rush downstairs and nearly smack into my mother as I’m rounding the corner to the kitchen. Momentarily stunned, we just stand there like idiots. Finally, after a few beats, I snap out of it.

“I’m so sorry, Mom. Are you okay?” I ask.

“Boy, you are a woman on a mission. You didn’t even slow down around that corner. I’m fine, even though you mowed me down,” she teases.

“Yeah, sorry. I’m just excited to spend some time with you. Let’s get out of here.”

“I’ve ordered a car today. With the blood ball tonight, I won’t take any chances of you not coming out. You are royal and therefore, at risk. The extra security should be sufficient for our trip to town.”

Following her out the front door, I stop beside Mom in front of a sleek, black sedan with tinted windows. Yes, vampires love tinted windows. It gives us a sense of privacy and we are very private people.

Scooting in, I make room for Mom to sit in the seat next to me. She gives the driver directions and we are off.

We are silent as the road winds and we make it to the gate. Mom hands over her pass and Nathan, the guard, nods before returning it to her. The gates swing open and we are free. Well, as free as we can be with a chauffeur.

“So, honey, are you looking forward to the ball? You get to wear a gorgeous dress and be the center of attention for a whole night. I loved my coming out. The blood ball was so gorgeous. I remember it like it was yesterday.”

Mom gets that far off look in her eyes and I know there are memories streaming through her head. I finally speak up, breaking her train of thought.

“I’m getting more excited as the ball inches closer. I can’t believe it is already time. I want to look like a princess tonight.”

Mom beams. I obviously said the right thing. Silently patting myself on the back, it’s my turn to grin at her. Purposely, I shove the betrayal of her telling my Dad to the back of my mind for the night. This event is special and the need to focus is overwhelming.

In no time, we’re pulling up to a stop alongside a curb. When we exit the car, we are standing in front of a fancy nail boutique. It’s more upscale that I expected, but then again, Mom would accept nothing less for a royal engagement.

It’s turning out to be fun. We both get pedicures and gossip like only girls can. I choose a soft, shimmery lavender for my toes. They break us up for our manicures and I mull over the events that will occur tonight.

It’s hard to always remember that my parents have my best interests at heart and I should listen to them. They have experience and I can learn from their mistakes. Gee, that actually sounded grown up coming from me. I crack a smile and return my focus to the nail technician.

The tech is quick and does a wonderful job. I settle on a French manicure that makes me look sophisticated. Satisfied, I wait for Mom to finish and pay. She has chosen a soft pink and it looks amazing on her.

We are giggling and comparing manicures as we step out of the shop. Unfortunately, I’m too busy paying attention to my nails and not watching where I’m going. Suddenly I’m smacking into somebody and I stumble. Landing on my butt, it takes a moment for me to realize what just happened.

Then a hand is there, helping me to my feet. Once I’m standing, I look up to thank the stranger for helping me up and apologize for running into him. That’s a huge mistake. This isn’t happening. I close my eyes and my brows furrow.

My eyes slowly reopen and peer at the figure in front of me. Yep, it’s happening. It’s him. Chase. There, in front of me, stands the human that has caused me so much trouble and turned my world upside down.

His eyes penetrate mine and they see something unexpected, recognition. Panicking, I speak in a rapid pace.

“I’m so sorry for running into you. I should have been paying attention to where I was going. Thanks for being so kind as to help me up.”

“It’s quite alright. It was my pleasure to help up such a beautiful woman. Tell me, Callie, how are you today?”

I feel my Mom stiffen next to me. All the color drains from my face in a whoosh. There is no way. Last night, I erased his mind. Butterflies struggle to break free from my stomach. I’m in pure panic mode. This has never happened to any vampire that I know of, ever.

My eyes grow wide and it’s obvious that he’s enjoying this. If he remembers me, then he likely remembers what happened last night. He should be running the opposite direction instead of standing here, looking at me with a mixture of amusement and curiosity. Curiosity did kill the cat they say.

“I’m sorry, do I know you?” I say, trying to tamp down the panic.

“It’s Chase, you know, from last night. Don’t tell me you’ve already forgotten about me. I would recognize those beautiful, violet eyes anywhere. That was some night, Callie,” he says as he emphasizes my name.

What the hell? My eyes dart to my Moms. I need some direction. I’m not sure what to do now. Mom looks like she’s ready to spit nails. This makes me cringe. How had I messed this situation up so badly?

“It’s nice to meet you, Chase. I’m Callie’s Mom. Why don’t you join us for some tea so we can talk? I would love to get to know you better. My daughter has told me all about you,” she offers with a chill in her voice.

Chase hesitates, but only for a second. He winks at me with a grin before responding. “Sure, that sounds nice. I would love to get to know Callie better. She won me over last night. I’m quite glad I ran into you all today.”

It’s possible my Mom might have stopped breathing right then and there. I’m thankful for the chauffeur that walks around the car and opens the back door for us.

We usher Chase in first and then Mom scoots me to the middle seat. She sits next to me and the door closes. I look over at her to gauge her emotions and am hurt to see the betrayal emanating from her, like I felt earlier in the evening.

The ride is silent and uncomfortable. It isn’t until we reach the gates and the chauffeur flashes our pass that the silence is broken.

Chase is wide eyed, completely in awe. The place is beautiful, I always thought so myself.

“What is this place? Do you really live here? This is amazing.”

That’s when I realize I’m in deep trouble if my Mom is bringing him into our community. Is she going to let him walk away? Maybe she can erase his memories for good. One can hope, because the only other option is one I would rather not even entertain.

“This is one of those self-sufficient communities you see in the papers. We do just about everything ourselves here. We have lived here forever, it seems.”

It’s hard not to notice her use of forever. He doesn’t know how literal that response is and I will not be telling him. I’m going to say as little as possible. I don’t want to dig my grave any deeper.

Silence falls once again as Chase takes in his surroundings. His mouth is open slightly in what I can only describe as wonder.

We finally come to a stop in front of the house and I’m first to scramble out of the car. It’s hard trying not to freak out, but it seems inevitable. This human that has such an effect on me is here, at my home. He remembers. I’m not sure whether he is stupid or brave to come here with us.

“You have a lovely home,” he offers.

I wince, knowing my Mom’s response will be stiff and forced. My Mom doesn’t like humans. She thinks they are nothing but trouble. She and my Dad don’t have to hunt like Jane and I do. They are mated, so they can take blood from each other to replace the human blood.

At this Moment, mating doesn’t seem so bad. After this incident, I think it will be nothing short of imperative to prevent another mishap with a human.

“Thank you, won’t you please come in. Callie will show you to the sitting room and I will have tea prepared,” she replies before dismissing us in search of our maid.

Smiling at Chase and nodding my head in the direction of the house, I open the front door. He steps through it and stops on the other side of the door, just inside the foyer. The sense of wonder is plastered across his face.

Our home is more like a modern day castle than a house. I grew up here, so it’s something that I’ve never really thought about before now. As royalty, we entertain guests here for functions or meetings and such.

In fact, the only reason we don’t have anyone here during the blood ball this year is because I’m coming out. Guys from around the world will be here and they don’t get to see me until the ball, with the exception of Cody and Thayer. Other families are hosting all of them this year.

Breaking my train of thought and returning my attention to Chase, it’s hard to force myself to speak in a subdued tone instead of the frenzied one that is trying to surface.

“Follow me; we can have a seat just inside that set of doors.”

Pointing to the set of large, double doors on our right, I make my way to them and open them wide. Nervously, we enter and sit in two of the chairs. Chase sits across from me.

My eyes finally meet his. That’s a big mistake. He has this effect on me that I can’t understand. Goose bumps form on my porcelain skin and I absently rub my arms.

“Callie, I…” he gets out before my Mother and my father join us. The maid follows and prepares some tea for Chase. The spell is broken. I shake my head and turn away. If my parents caught that they interrupted something, they didn’t let on.

Chase takes his tea and my Dad clears his throat. “So, Chase, how is it you know my daughter?”

Dad gets right down to business. That’s not a good sign. I’m in for it. Still, I’m confused by how this could have even happened. This incident defies all logic. I want to speak up. I want to shout out. This isn’t my fault. I did everything right.

Instead, I just sit there, my eyes downcast, waiting for my father and Chase to hash out details of last night so I can determine just what is going to happen to me.

“Sir, I met her at a club last night and was quite taken with her. She is truly unique and beautiful.”

Those words penetrate my thick skin and I want to melt. For the moment, I wish he isn’t human but that he is a vampire. Instead, he’s human and this is a serious situation. The difference could mean life or death to either of us.

Dad takes a second to absorb his statement before replying. “Please, what do you remember about last night?”

“To be honest, I remember everything. We met at the club and hit it off. Callie is beautiful and I was thrilled to have caught her attention. We danced for quite a while before we went back to my place.”

My Mom goes ashen. She knows what happened after that because I told her. This is not good. So far he hasn’t come out and said it, but it appears that he remembers all of it. My Dad is going to blow a gasket.

“She went back to your place last night? I hope you were a perfect gentleman to my little girl.”

“Yes, sir, I was completely respectful. I am curious as to why she left like she did, considering we were getting along quite well.”

I frown. “What do you mean why I left like I did?”

“You’re a vampire aren’t you? You drank my blood, told me to forget and left. How could I actually forget something that amazing? I’ve never felt anything like that in my entire life.”

My Dad slams his fist down on the table, making the tea set shake. “That’s enough. I’ve heard more than enough of this debacle. Chase, you are going to be our guest indefinitely until we figure out how to handle this. I’m sorry, but you won’t be able to leave until we have sorted things out. “

My heart sinks. I’m so screwed. My night went from bad to worse in a matter of minutes. He remembers. How can that be possible? I sure hope my parents believe my innocence.

“No offense, but I have a life to get back to and staying in a house full of vampires sounds like a sketchy plan.”

“Your life will be just fine on hold. You should be more concerned as to why you’re here. We’re not the danger, you are.”

It only takes a few minutes for me to realize what is going on.  They drugged his tea.  He could care less about much of anything at this point.  All I can do is turn away in dismay.

Dad presses on the intercom and calls for the maid, dismissing the argument with Chase. She scurries through the door and bows in front of my Dad. “Yes, sir?” she asks politely.

“Please see our guest to the east wing, red room please. He will be staying with us for a while.”

The maid looks at Chase skeptically. She knows he’s human and isn’t sure why he is here. She’s smart enough to nod and lead him away.

Just before Chase leaves the room, he turns and looks at me. “It was great to see you again Callie. I hope I will be seeing you around,” he says with a goofy look on his face.

Then, just like that, he’s gone and I’m left with the mess. I have to face Mom and Dad alone. Why is this happening to me?

As soon as the door shuts, silence descends. I’ve never seen my parents this quiet before. It terrifies me. I’m not sure what to expect now. Finally, I can’t take it anymore and break the blanket of silence.

“I swear I took his memories like I always do. I’d never, ever jeopardize this family and what we have here.”

“Young lady, this is serious. Your Mom told me what happened last night. Do you expect me to believe you took his memories when he clearly remembers EVERYTHING, Callie?”

Tears form at his admonishment. “I’m telling you the truth. Even though I have some strange connection to this human, I did take his memories. He was in a total daze when I left.”

Knowing my eyes are glowing from the emotion flowing through me, I don’t care that it’s impolite to flash them in public. I just care about how to get out of this mess.

“Listen, if it looks this way to us and we trust you, then how do you think it will look to the council? They will not show you mercy just because you are a royal. You’re subject to the same rules we all are in this community.”

“But, Dad, I didn’t do it. There’s no way to explain how he remembers and why he’s so taken with me. I wiped him. He has to be some strange anomaly. I don’t know what else to say!”

Mom is noticeably silent throughout this exchange. I want to scream at her for her betrayal of my trust, but just can’t muster up the extra energy for that. Instead, I continue this conversation with my Dad.

“Fine, let’s just say he is some strange anomaly and you are innocent. How do we convince the council? Further, what do we do with him? He can’t live as a human anymore. He either dies or is turned. We haven’t turned a human in almost a decade. You have doomed the poor man.”

“You’re lucky he’s so enamored with you honey. He may be willing stay here temporarily, but I’m afraid for the time when Chase realizes he can’t leave and you have sent him to his death.  We can’t keep him drugged forever,” Mom interjects.

“I think we have heard enough on this subject tonight. The blood ball is very important and I expect you to participate now more than ever. Maybe if a mating ritual is in the works, your sentence will be more lenient,” Dad states.

“Yes sir. I’ll do everything in my power to represent this family tonight. I’m sorry to have brought shame upon us. Can I please be excused to get ready for the ball?”

“You’re dismissed, but Callie? Don’t breathe a word of this to anyone. Tonight is not the night to deal with this situation. Your mother and I will be waiting for you down here in two hours. Don’t be late.”

I nod and excuse myself. I’m careful to make slow movements until I clear the room and reach the stairs. Then I tear up the stairs and fling the bedroom door shut with a thwack before planting myself face down on my bed.

I feel like the villain in a horror story. Everyone is looking at me as the bad guy. I’m so not the one at fault here. I can’t help that this incredibly strange yet intriguing human remembered me. I wiped his mind and did everything right.

Tears are leaking now and the confusion of the situation settles over me. The vampire council would kill me, or better yet, kill Chase. There has to be some way around this situation. I just haven’t thought of it yet.

A gentle knock sounded from outside my door. It’s probably Mom checking to see if I’m getting ready. “Come in.”

I don’t bother to turn towards the door as she enters. I’m still crying and I don’t care if she sees. Then, she sits down next to me and I stiffen. It isn’t my Mom. It’s human blood wafting towards me. Chase.

I bolt up and find myself face to face with intense, blue eyes.

“Are you alright, Callie?” he asks in a gentle tone.

“I’m fine, just practicing my acting skills,” I say lamely.

Chase brushes his fingers across my cheeks to dry my tears. I shiver at his touch. I can’t look away.

Sensing my reaction to him, he leans forward and brushes his lips across mine and I let him. My body soaks up the feel of him and my lips tingle from the touch of his. He parts my lips softly and I feel his tongue invade my mouth. Abruptly, I pull away. I can’t do this. It just feels wrong in light of a new evening.

My eyes are down cast, afraid to meet his after my rejection of him. Chase is having none of that though. He places a gentle hand under my chin and tilts my face to meet his.

Instead of the horror I expected, there’s awe, need even. I feel as if I could devour him right here and now if I go unchecked. I want to taste him so badly. I feel his blood singing to me. It feels so strangely intimate.

“I’m sorry to have caused you so much trouble, Callie. However, I’m not sorry to be here, with you. You are fascinating and I can’t get enough of you. Yes, I know you’re a vampire and I should be afraid, but the truth is that I find it sexy as hell. You’re truly unique and I can’t wait to get to know you more.”

“That’s just it, Chase. I can’t get to know you. This is a serious situation. You are human and you can’t know about us. No human does. That doesn’t help your odds. I promise that I will try to find a way out of this for you. Unfortunately, there is no room for an us in this equation.”

“I refuse to believe that. There’s something here and you have to feel it, too. I’m not walking away from you. I’ve just found you. We will find a way. It looks like I have time on my hands and I intend to use it to find a solution.”

“I can’t be with a human. I can only be with another vampire. It’s how our society works. There is no room for mortality in our world. We live for a long time and you are merely a blip on our radar. I have to choose a mate that can give me pure bred children. We mate for life, Chase.”

“We’ll see, but if you aren’t mated yet, there is hope. I promise you that. Don’t write me off just yet.”

A knock on the door startles me and I jump. “Callie, are you doing okay? We need to go in a little less than an hour and a half.”

It’s Mom. Crap. I grasp Chase’s arm and tug him toward the balcony. Then I shove him out onto it. “Sshh, hide out here, I’ll be back for you in a few minutes.”

He nods and I quietly shut the balcony door just in time for Mom to open my bedroom door a crack and stick her head in.

“What’s wrong, Callie? Why aren’t you getting ready? I don’t need to remind you how important this is, sweetie.”

“No, Mom. I’m going to get ready now. I just needed time to process things. I promise I’ll be ready in time. In fact, come back in an hour and I’ll have you help me with my dress. I can’t get all those buttons on my own.”

Sorrow crosses her expression and she nods. “Very well, I’ll be back. Please hurry though. We can’t be late for tea. What kind of example would that set? We need to play our cards right if you want to survive this mess of yours.”

“Okay Mom, see you soon,” I reply before turning from the door and pulling out a towel from the closet.

As soon as the door shuts and I hear her footsteps retreat, I rush to the balcony. Chase steps inside and meets my worried gaze. He pulls me to him and kisses me with a desperate need I haven’t felt from anyone before. I feel the force and can’t tear away.

He winks at me and then strolls across the room and slips out the door, leaving me standing there, stunned. What just happened? Did I imagine all of this? Things are getting messy and fast. He’s a human for heaven’s sake!

I have ruined this poor human’s life. Things are spinning out of control. He likes me! I need a real mate, not a human. Besides, it just isn’t like that. Yes, he’s attractive and dangerous. I know he’s not my mate. It’s just my intuition speaking.

That reasoning doesn’t help. I shower and try to put my focus into the coming events. I close my eyes and let the water cascade over me. The water is hot and turns my porcelain skin a brilliant pink.

As I step out of the shower and the steam engulfs me, I wrap myself in a soft towel and pad into my room. I still have to put up my hair and do my makeup.

After dressing in a button up, white shirt and a pair of cotton shorts, I’m ready to dry my hair and fix it. I’ve practiced this up do every day for a week. I could do this in my sleep. With the haze over my thoughts, it’s a good thing.

I’m just putting the finishing touches on my makeup when Mom knocks. I add shimmery sparkles to my lavender eye shadow and brush a frosty pink lipstick across my lips. “Come in, Mom.”

The door opens and my mother steps in. My jaw drops when I see her. She looks like an angel in a cream dress. It’s hard to believe that my Mom is so old when she looks so young. To most, she could pass as my sister if they didn’t know better.

“You look amazing! I think this is the most beautiful dress I’ve ever seen you in, Mom,” I gush.

“Why thank you, dear. Let’s get you ready now. We have to hurry. Your Dad is already downstairs in his study waiting. Let’s not keep him.”

I begin to strip as my Mom pulls out my dress. It is a royal purple in clingy silk. The strapless dress shows off my porcelain skin and the back is done with a whole row of tiny, silk buttons. It’s elegant and I will look stunning in it.

After slipping on my matching purple strappy heels, I take a deep breath. This is it. I’m finally ready for my coming out. It’s surreal. I can’t believe I’m actually nervous.

There are tears forming in the corners of my mother’s eyes as I turn and she sees me. The silk settles on my curves and I look like a beauty with exotic purple eyes. I pull her into a quick hug. “Thanks Mom.”

“I can’t believe my baby is growing up. You look like a goddess, Callie. The boys are going to be all over you tonight.”

I grin at her. “Let’s go find me a mate.”

I still feel guilty about the situation that shall not be named, but I have managed to push Chase from my mind long enough to get through the night. I made a promise to my parents and I intend to keep it. It’s funny how everything can change in the blink of an eye.

The only one I have to worry about is Jane. She knows I don’t want a mate. I’m sure she is going to be really suspicious. I’ll have to tell her my parents convinced me to have a change of heart. It’s the only way she’ll even semi believe me.

Grasping her hand lightly, I follow Mom down the stairs and into the foyer. Finn, the butler, leaves to retrieve my father. We’re finally ready. I only hope I can pull this off. My life and my family’s reputation depend on it.

My Dad finally enters the room, looking large and imposing, as usual. He intimidates most people, but I know the real Milo and he’s a great father.

“Well, aren’t you ladies a sight for sore eyes.”

“Why thank you, Daddy. We’re ready when you are.” I grin.

It feels like a weight has lifted and I’m lighter than earlier. The tension is still there, but has lessened significantly. There is hope that I’ll find my mate tonight.

It’s impossible not to fidget during the entire car ride. I’m nervous about tonight. I have to push thoughts of Chase from my mind and focus on finding a mate. If I can salvage this situation without my death, I’ll do it by any means necessary. Mom notices my nervousness and rests a hand on my leg.

“Don’t be so anxious, honey. You’ll do great tonight. I have every bit of faith in you.”

“There’s just a lot at stake. I’m well aware of that and I want to make this family proud.”

My Dad turns from the window and meets my eyes. “You’ll do fine. Just take this seriously and things will fall into place. We’ll find a way to take care of this situation.”

Situation sounds like such a dirty word the way he says it. A day ago, all I wanted to do was ignore the vampire guys and focus on my future at college. It’s funny how just one mistake can change everything in the blink of an eye. Now, I’m desperately seeking a mate in hopes of saving my life.

Maybe it could be Cody. He has so much to offer and any girl would be lucky to have him. He’s already a royal, so I wouldn’t have to worry about his intentions. Maybe. We’ll see what happens, but it’s good to know a girl has options.

Still anxious, I catch Mom’s attention. “Do I look alright? How is my makeup? How does my hair look? Is this dress sexy enough to catch attention?”

Suddenly things that didn’t matter before become imperative.

“Oh, sweetie, you look gorgeous. Purple looks so good on you and brings out the color of your violet eyes. The dress is a little too sexy, if you ask me,” she replies with a wink and a grin.

I feel more at ease now. Maybe I’ll draw some male attention. No doubt Jane will be anxiously waiting for me when we get to the ball. I love her and I’ll need her strength to get through this. I’m not shy around guys. Hell, we hunt them every week. This is different though. These are vampire guys. We mate for life and our courtships are very serious.

I’m saved from my thoughts as we pull up to Havershams, the Gregorias’ upscale bar on the east side of town. We’re meeting them and the Lucia’s here. A tickle of excitement bubbles through me at the prospect of seeing Cody. The opposite thought crosses my mind at the mere idea of seeing Thayer. Ugh.

We step out of the limo and I straighten my dress. I take a deep breath and lock up the last of my fleeting thoughts of Chase. I will not let him taint what is supposed to be one of the best nights of my life.

My heels click on the cobblestone in front of the bar as we make our way inside. Dad holds the door open for Mom and me. As soon as we step in, I see they’re all already waiting for us. Suddenly, I’m feeling very vulnerable in this dress.

It’s clear that my dress is the right choice though. The minute Cody and Thayer turn towards me, the conversation ceases and their mouths drop open. I can feel them soaking up every detail of my dress. They can see the way the silk settles on my curves and how it caresses my ample cleavage. The silk clings to me in a way that leaves little to the imagination.

My cheeks grow pink under the scrutiny and I force a smile. The spell is finally broken. Cody comes up to me first.

“God Callie, you look gorgeous tonight. That dress is… well there aren’t words for how that dress looks on you.” He lifts my hand and places a gentle kiss on it. I feel like a princess.

Then Thayer steps up. Instead of a polite hello, he pulls me into a warm hug. Okay, this is beyond strange for him. When he finally breaks away, he holds my arms and his green eyes search my violet ones.

I’m not sure what he’s searching for, but it makes me a little uneasy. I know that I’ll be looked at like a specimen tonight so I brush off his obvious staring. This is Thayer. He’s obnoxious, not warm and caring. He’s definitely throwing me off.

Thayer finally steps back and I greet the rest of their families. Thayer’s parents look pleased at the interaction between us and are grinning ear to ear. It feels like I’ve entered The Twilight Zone.

Cody’s sister is noticeably absent, but she still has a year before her coming out. Next year she’ll be here in my shoes. I like Lana; she’s always been such a sweetheart. Cody’s parents wave and grin much in the way the Lucias did.

We all have a seat at a table set just for the lot of us. Dad signals the waiter and orders for us. We all have to drink regular human blood tonight. We can’t risk the secret cocktail recipe getting out. I’m not all that particular except human blood from a donor and stored isn’t nearly as good as blood from the tap.

“So, Callie, I hear that you plan to go to U of V. Cody here is going to be a sophomore in the fall. We’re very proud of him. He’s excelling in vampire politics and will follow in his father’s footsteps,” Mrs. Gregoria says, trying to break the ice.

I’m about to speak up when Mom interjects. “Our Callie is going to be studying art as a major and vampire politics as a minor. We are requiring the minor due to her standing in the community, but her art is absolutely amazing.”

Cody looks up and smiles. “I would love to see some of your work sometime.”

“Sure,” I reply lamely.

“Thayer will be going in as a freshman, too. He’s going to major in economics and vampire politics as well. It sounds like you kids will have some classes together,” Mr. Lucia says.

I look up at Thayer and see some unreadable expression on his face. He looks like he wants to devour me and it sends chills through me. I’m not used to being looked at this way.

The waiter brings us a carafe of blood and Mr. Gregoria proceeds to pour us all a wine glass full. I thank him and take a sip of the thick, red substance. It has been warmed up to body temperature in an attempt to mimic the real thing.

I swallow the smooth but slightly bitter metallic blood and sigh in satisfaction. The blood high won’t be nearly as strong when I get it straight from a human, but it will be enough to take the edge off. That’s exactly what I need to get through tonight.

I find that I’m actually enjoying the male attention. I feel sexy and desired. It’s heady and empowering. I study Cody and know he would be a good mate. I would have to spend more time with him to find out if we have any chemistry. Maybe later at the dance we will have a few minutes together.

Cody is easy on the eyes too. His ear length, blonde hair and hazel eyes make him stunning. He is muscular and lithe. He has a grace about him that makes him nothing short of amazing.

Thayer, on the other hand, is not an option. Although he is being the perfect gentleman tonight, I know the real Thayer and I’m not too fond of him. Grown up or not, I will never be interested.

“So, Callie, are you looking forward to the ball tonight? You look absolutely divine this evening, my dear,” Mrs. Lucia says.

I smile politely and nod. “I’m looking forward to the ball. Coming out is a big deal and I can’t wait to make my family proud by choosing a worthy mate.”

I tried to make the answer sound as political as possible, like my parents taught me to do in mixed company. I can see her eyes light up with hope, and I hate that I’m going to be the one to squash it. I won’t pick Thayer, but maybe he’ll get lucky with one of the other girls.

“A mate for someone in your position in the community would be highly sought after. I’m sure you’ll have your pick of all the males there,” Mrs. Gregoria explains.

That makes me brighten a bit. All the males? A girl should be so lucky. I have to remember that Jane has first dibs though. She would kill me if I backed out of our deal. I would never do that to her.

“Make sure you save enough time to dance with me, Callie. I would love the chance to talk further with you,” Cody tells me in no uncertain terms that he is interested in me.

“Of course, I would be honored.”

As if not to be outdone, Thayer speaks up. “Please save a dance for me as well. I would love to spend a little more time in the presence of such beauty.”

Ugh, gag me with a steak knife. There’s no desire to get anywhere near Thayer. I can only hope he forgets or that by slipping through the shadows, he can be avoided. Cody, on the other hand, intrigues me. I never thought of him as mate material because I was never looking for a mate. Now, imagine the possibilities.

I nod and take another sip of my blood.

“Callie, how does it feel to know you will be competing with five other girls for all this male attention? There are a lot of you coming out this year. Normally it is considered a crowd with four girls,” Mrs. Gregoria asks.

I take a Moment to formulate my response. “If the guy is right for me, there’ll be no competition. I’m not worried about that. Yes, there are a lot of us this year, but there’s a great selection of guys to complement each and every one of us.”

She looks pleased by my answer and turns her attention to my parents. “How does it feel to be possibly losing your little girl to her future mate? You must be a little saddened by the prospect.”

“We will miss Callie very much when she finds her mate. She deserves to be happy, though, and we will be happy for her.”

“I couldn’t agree more about Thayer. We love him dearly, but would be thrilled if he was able to find his mate tonight. I would love a daughter in law,” Mrs. Lucia says.

There’s no way to ignore the way she’s looking at me and it makes me want to shrink under her scrutiny. I have no intention of telling her it won’t be me unless Thayer is my last chance. Okay, so maybe not even then.

Our conversations wrap up and it’s clearly time for the ball. Being the polite daughter, I speak up.

“It was wonderful to talk with you all over drinks. I look forward to seeing all of you at the ball.”

Then I turn my gaze on Cody and Thayer and spit out the words before anyone realizes it’s only a half truth. “I’ll be looking forward to dancing with you both.”

My eyes lock with Cody’s and I know he is genuinely looking forward to our time together. It isn’t a shock when he takes a Moment to appreciate me in my dress one more time. I feel his eyes move over me as if he is undressing me with them. I’m not sure why, but I don’t mind so much.

My Dad takes my hand and leads me out of the bar and into the night. The car is waiting for us and the driver is holding the door open. I try to be as graceful as possible when getting in the car. I don’t let out my breath until I’m safely in the car and we are pulling away.

“Well, that was fun. What do you think Callie? I couldn’t help but notice you and Cody sneaking looks at each other,” Mom says, grinning.

“It was nice. Cody is a great guy. I look forward to spending more time with him tonight.”

I said what she wants to hear and she lights up. I get the feeling that she’s rooting for Cody. He’s already a royal so that lets me know he isn’t interested in me for just my position in the court. That’s a good feeling. He’s looking better and better by the minute.

My Dad grows serious before addressing me. “We’ll figure out this situation with Chase, Callie. Just do your part tonight and we’ll try to make this all go away. You have to trust that we only want the best for you.”

“I know Dad, and thank you. I won’t let you and Mom down.”

I push aside unwanted thoughts of Chase and return my focus to the upcoming events. My blood high is setting in and my tension begins to slip away. We pull up to The Majestic and I’m really glad for the blood high. Otherwise, I’m not sure I could function under this much pressure.

I step out of the car and take in the sight before me. We are at The Majestic. This is the most beautiful place in all of our land. The structure is large and imposing. It reminds me of a large castle. I know that it’s close to it.

Mom helps me towards the entrance. The minute we enter the foyer, I’m saying goodbye to Mom and Dad. I’m swept up in a fuss and find myself following maids up the stairs and to the west wing.

We walk down the hall, someone’s arm tugging me forward. Now, I’m growing nervous. The reality is setting in. This night could mark the rest of my life. The enormity of this blood ball is weighing me down like an anchor.

Finally, we reach the end of the hall and the door opens. A flurry of activity is revealed behind it. My eyes sweep the room until they settle on a familiar figure. Jane. Thank the gods; I have to tell her about Cody and Thayer. I hope there’s time for us to catch up.

I don’t get more than a wave and a smile from Jane before I’m being hurried to a vanity. Women flutter around me, fixing my hair until every strand is perfect and in place. They touch up my makeup and reapply lipstick. I stand and take one last look in the mirror.

My dress is beautiful. For once, I feel like the real royal princess that I am. It lifts my spirits. The last time I felt like a royal princess was when Jane and I would play dress up when we were younger. Times don’t seem to have changed.

Finally, the activity dies down and someone clears their throat. We all take the hint and grow silent.

“It’s almost time, ladies. In about five minutes, we will have your parents meet you at the top of the center stairs. You’ll descend on their arms as we announce your entry into the vampire community. Each and every one of you looks stunning tonight and I can’t wait for you to be presented.”

The maid that spoke stepped aside and they all exited the room as quickly as they came. The silence dissipates and everyone begins to chit chat. I rush over to Jane and wrap my arms around her.

“Oh, thank heavens, I’m so glad to see you!” I tell her.

She pulls away, all smiles. Her dress is absolutely amazing. She’s sheathed in silver satin and, from the waist down, is covered with glittered tulle. She looks like a ballerina, only in a longer dress. I should have known that no one would be able to outshine Jane. She’s gorgeous.

“It’s only been like twenty-four hours, you know.”

I forgot that she didn’t know about all the crap that rained down on me since yesterday. I quickly compose myself.

“I know. I just missed you at drinks with the Gregorias and Lucias tonight. I wish you had been there.”

“Yeah, how was that? Was Thayer as annoying as ever? Did Cody look hot? He totally has it bad for you.”

“Thayer was acting strange. He actually hugged me and asked me to save him a dance. I’m still not sure what to make of it. Yes, Cody looked super yummy. But he doesn’t like me; it’s just your imagination.”

“Whatever Callie. I know how he looks at you. You should really consider getting to know him if he doesn’t get snapped up tonight.”

For some reason, the thought of Cody with someone else sends a wave of unease through me. I couldn’t be jealous could I? I’m fond of Cody, but I’ve never really thought of him like that. Maybe now, I see him as more than a friend. Hmm, that’s interesting and worth investigating.

“So, um, Jane, I have something to tell you. I changed my mind about tonight. I want to find a mate tonight. It’s time. I know what I said before, but my parents have put things in a new perspective for me.”

“Seriously Callie? I’m not buying what you’re selling. Try again.”

I grind my teeth as I try to think of something believable. That’s easier said than done.

“It’s just that this whole thing has made me think. I don’t want to lose a potentially great guy because I’m too afraid to try. You’re right. Guys like Cody will get snapped up and then what? What if I don’t ever meet a great guy? I can’t be stuck marrying someone like Thayer. That would be the worst kind of hell.”

I try to be as convincing as possible with my little revelation and hope that it takes. If she doesn’t buy into this, she might get suspicious and dig. I can’t have that happening. If she finds out about Chase, she will kill me herself, without the council.

“It’s about time you came to that conclusion! I’ve been trying to tell you that all along. I’m glad you pulled your head out of the gutter in time for the blood ball. You look to die for and are going to give those guys a heart attack. Just remember, I get first pick!”

I sigh in relief. She bought my spiel just as I’m beginning to believe it myself.

“I don’t know. You’re the one that looks like Cinderella tonight. That dress is unbelievable. You are going to have to beat the guys off with a stick.”

We both laugh and I’m thankful for this reprieve from my nerves. She’s put me at ease and I’m mentally prepared now for this.

I look around the room and the other girls are chittering away like nervous birds. Everyone’s wearing a different color dress, at least. I see gold, blue, red and black. I think the red and black are a little cliché for vampires, but whatever.

I’m startled back to reality when there’s a sharp knock on the door before a maid steps across the threshold. She has our attention and I realize that this is it. I’m going to go downstairs and pick my life mate. I can do this. I have to do this.

“Follow me, ladies. We will meet up with your parents at the stairs and then go over the order of your introductions.”

She made a hand motion to follow her. I grasp Jane’s hand and tug her out of the room and down the hallway to where our parents are waiting. When we get there, the adults are making conversation among themselves. All talking ceases when we arrive.

They are taking in our appearance. We are all drop dead gorgeous tonight. (Ha, ha, drop dead, get it? Ugh, a tangent again, I promise to behave now.)

We take our places between our parents and wait for instruction. The maid is crisp and clear with her commands.

“We’re going to be lining up in front of the staircase in the following order,” she explains and then continues. “First, Alice and her family and then Hannah and her family go second. Jane and family enter next. Lastly, Winter and then Callie.”

I sigh in relief. I’m going last. Thank goodness for small favors. I’ll have a chance to watch the others before me and gauge the crowd’s reaction. Being last is more dramatic anyways.

Everyone takes their place and forms a line. My mother settles at my left and my Dad wraps his arm around my right arm. I’m ready. At least, I’m as ready as I’ll ever be to make life altering decisions.

My blood high is wearing off now and I can’t wait to get downstairs and find another drink. I don’t physically need it, but I do need the high to get through the night. I want everything to be perfect and I’m much more of a sparkling conversationalist when I am satiated.

The crowd below hushes and I know that Alice is getting ready to descend. A man at the bottom of the stairs announces her and she disappears down the staircase. People clap and a few whistle. Then, the man must have made some sort of hand gesture because the crowd falls in a hush again.

It goes on like this as each girl exits the second floor down to the ball. Jane turns and gives me a wink before making her own way down and into the fray. After Winter goes, I’m the only one left. I take a deep breath as the man announces me.

It feels like I am floating as Mom and Dad usher me out of the hall and down the staircase. I can’t see the crowd because the lights pointed at me are so bright. I smile and gracefully continue forward. When we reach the bottom of the stairs, the crowd goes wild and I can’t help but smile.

Dad leans in and kisses me on the cheek and then Mom does the same. They both look so happy. For once, I know I’m doing something right. Then, I’m there at the bottom of the staircase engulfed in light, on display for everyone to see.

I try not to fidget as I stand there and everyone watches me. Then, Cody is there. I grin at him. He’s the perfect person to ease me into this thing. I want to spend more time with him anyways. I need to see if we have that connection or not.

Cody leans forward and kisses me on the cheek. I feel a tingle zip through me from where his lips have touched my skin. That’s definitely a good sign.

“May I have the first dance with you, Callie? I don’t want to wait until later.”

He winks and a grin spreads across his face. I smile and nod. Then I let him pull me onto the dance floor where everyone seems to be congregating in a circle.

A slow song comes on and I notice the others have dance partners already too. I refocus on Cody and he pulls me in until we are touching. His hands are resting on my waist and I wrap my arms around his neck. His hands feel intimate, considering all that separates them from my flesh is a thin layer of silk.

I look up into his eyes and find a wanting in them that I haven’t noticed before. Maybe he really is into me like Jane says. The thought makes me smile. He leans in and his lips touch my ear before he speaks. Shivers race through me and I am completely caught off guard by how reactive I am to him. I mean, this is Cody, the great guy for anyone but me.

“You look so amazing tonight, Callie. I’m glad I get to be the first to dance with you. Maybe if I am lucky, you will show mercy on me and honor me with another dance before the end of the ball.”

When he pulls away, I feel a loss where his lips were. I don’t yet understand this thing between us, but I want to give it more time to find out. He leans back a bit and looks into my violet eyes. Then it is my turn to lean in and bring my lips up to meet his ear.

I can see him tense as my lips brush against his ear. “I would love that, Cody.”

I pull away and am facing him once more. He smiles wide but doesn’t say anything. I spend the rest of the song just soaking up the essence that is all him. He smells of cinnamon and I wonder what he will taste like if he becomes my mate.

Just like that, too soon, the song is over and we reluctantly break apart. Cody brushes a hand against my cheek and then turns to go. He calls over his shoulder, “don’t forget our other dance, princess.”

He’s gone, vanishing into the crowd. My thoughts are chaotic and my body is on fire from our emotionally charged encounter.

When I look up, I realize that I am just standing in the middle of the dance floor like an idiot. I move off of it and meander towards the waiters with the trays of blood. I go to swipe a glass when someone else is quicker and has placed one in front of me.

I look up to see who was so kind and stop. I try not to let my emotions show. It’s Thayer. Well, maybe it’s good to get this out of the way.

“I believe you were searching for this,” he says as he offers the glass to me.

I smile and nod. “Thank you, Thayer. That’s very kind.”

Sipping the contents, I let my eyes slip closed and savor the taste. When I open them, I have finished my glass and Thayer is staring at me, his expression calculating. Uh oh, thinking on a guy is never a good sign.

I don’t even have time to react before everything happens in a burst. A waiter scoops in and relieves me of my glass and Thayer has my hand in his. He is tugging me forward, the crowd parting for us.

When we finally stop, my thoughts are spinning. I take a deep breath and try to slow everything down. I look up and notice a breeze. We are on one of the many balconies. Great, now I’m alone with Thayer. This can’t be good.

“I’m glad I was able to find you alone so quickly. I’m sure you will be beating us off with a stick by the time tonight is over.”

A playful grin spreads across his face and I can’t help but smile. I don’t want to, but his expression is contagious. Before long, we’re laughing and I don’t even care what we are laughing at. When our giggles finally slow, Thayer grows serious.

“Look, Callie, I know I’m not your favorite person. I have been terrible to you in the past and I’m sorry about that. I’ve grown up a lot since then and I’m not that same boy anymore. I have no right to ask for a chance, but I’m going to anyways.”

This turn of events has me squirming under his scrutiny. How do you crush a guy’s hopes? I can’t give him what he’s looking for.

“I’m sorry, Thayer. You’re a great guy, but it’s not meant to be. We are better off as friends. I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay. I just had to ask, to make sure.”

With that, I turn and rush back inside. I can’t stand to see the hurt I’ve just caused. Once inside, I don’t make it far before I run smack into a brick wall. Well, okay, maybe it isn’t a brick wall, but the muscular chest I slammed into might as well have been.

His hands wrap around my shoulders to steady me. “Are you alright? It’s Callie, I’m assuming?”

I look up into his eyes and holy cow. I get lost in their brown depths. His expression is friendly, sincere even. His hair is blonde and cropped short. He’s so tall. I bet he towers over my five foot five by at least a good foot.

“Yes, I’m Callie. Sorry to mow you down like that. I wasn’t watching where I was going,” I offer as I shoot him a playful smile.

“I’m Devon. It’s my pleasure to have stopped you. Would you like another drink?”

Around this guy, hell yes I needed a drink. He makes me nervous and jittery in a good way.

“Um, sure. That would be great, Devon.”

He’s so fast. One minute he’s standing in front of me, and the next he’s back with a glass held out for me. I take it and smile at him in thanks before taking a sip of blood.

“So, Devon, tell me about yourself. What brings you to this fabulous blood ball?” I tease.

“Well, I’m here for you, of course, princess. I’m twenty and studying at the Northern campus in Michigan.”

“Interesting, what is your major?”

“I’m majoring in civil engineering, actually. I want to build roads and all that fun stuff. How about you? What are you going to study once you get to university?”

Suspicion crosses my features as I respond. “I’m majoring in art and minoring in vampire politics.”

He lets out a low rumble. “Don’t be so suspicious, princess. This is your coming out party. You’re eighteen so I assumed you would be going to university in the fall.”

Relief slips through me. I am being silly. For some reason though, I don’t like him calling me princess. It just doesn’t feel right.

This guy is incredibly nice and extremely easy on the eyes. I don’t want to monopolize my time too much with just one guy, so I decide to move on. I still don’t want to dismiss him yet, though.

“I have to go now, but would you like to dance with me later, Devon?”

He gives me his biggest smile and then kisses my hand. “It would be my pleasure, Callie.”

I turn and walk away, a big grin on my face. Tonight’s going pretty well. This is a lot more fun than I expected it to be. I find that I enjoy the male attention of even vampires. I practically skip off to go find Jane.

I see Jane with someone I have yet to meet, grinding on the dance floor. It looks like the two of them are hitting it off. Just the sight of them makes me happy. Maybe, just maybe, Jane and I could have our happily ever after for real.

I try to cover the ground from where I am standing to over where Jane is dancing, but I’m stopped by Winter, of all people. She looks worried and a little envious.

“Hey, Callie, do you have a minute?”

I take in her blue Cinderella dress and note that the color of her eyes complements the color of the dress. Her blonde hair is twisted into an up do and her makeup is frosted on to give her that soft, wintery effect.

“Sure, what’s up?”

I’m curious now and want to know what warrants her talking to me. We’re civil to each other, but nowhere near what you would call friends. She must have an ulterior motive for talking to me.

“So I saw you with Devon just now and I was sort of wondering…” she trails off. “I mean, I wanted to know what your intentions are with him. I think I really like him. He could be the one.”

“Don’t worry, we didn’t fall madly in love, although, he is a great catch. I will definitely let you have him. I can see how you two would be perfect for each other.”

Surprisingly, Winter reaches over and wraps her delicate arms around me. “Oh, thank you so much, Callie!! I won’t forget this.”

Then she pulls away and is gone as fast as she came. Okay, so Devon is out. No big deal, plenty of guys are left and there is always Cody.

Thinking about Cody makes me wonder what he is doing right now. I scan the room and find him sitting at a table talking to Hannah. They are having a drink and talking. He’s making her laugh by the sounds of it. I can see the interest in her eyes and know she likes him.

I can’t understand where this jealousy I suddenly feel is coming from. A day ago, I didn’t even consider him a viable mate and now I can’t seem to picture him as anything else. I have to force myself to look away and focus on meeting more eligible guys. I need this chance to find someone.

I swipe another glass of blood and drink it down before placing the empty glass back on the tray. My blood high is still going strong and I’m in a pleasant mood, despite my jealousies. I search the room once more for any attractive guys I want to dance with.

I find a bronzed guy with golden brown hair down to his shoulders. His eyes are dark; almost black. He looks intense. I start to make my way towards him.

After about ten steps in his direction, a figure blocks my way. I’m nose to nose with Jane. Surprise crosses my face. Then I pull her into a hug.

“I’m having so much fun, Jane! I’m so glad you and Mom talked some sense into me.”

Her left eyebrow rises as she stares at me quietly. Then she shatters the brief silence.

“I’m having a great time, too. I’m also invoking the “I get first dibs” clause in our friendship.” She flicked her eyes over to the mystery guy before returning her gaze to me. “He’s mine, or at least I hope so.”

“Aw, I’m so happy for you, Jane. That’s fantastic!”

“Yeah, it would be if I could keep Alice away from him long enough to win him over.”

“Good luck, I’m sure you will. You look sexy tonight and definitely have Alice beat.”

Jane winks at me and turns to make her way over to him. I sigh and search the room once again. I notice a figure making his way over to me. As he gets closer, his features become more apparent. This guy is average in every way. He has dirty blonde hair and muddy brown eyes. His height is just taller than my own.

He cracks a smile when he reaches me. The gentleman pulls my hand to his lips and gently kisses it before bringing his attention back to my face.

“Miss Callie, my name is Rylie. It is my pleasure to meet you princess.”

“Thanks, Rylie. Do you want to dance?”

A slow song pops on and he pulls me forward. Rylie tucks me against himself and we sway to the music. I’m not sure what I expected, but this is nothing like my dance with Cody. I can’t feel the tension here. There is no spark and I need that spark. I want to actually be attracted to my mate.

I have to get my mind off Cody. Hannah seems to be enjoying herself with him. Maybe I need to start looking elsewhere. Even the thought makes me kind of sad. Rylie didn’t have much to say when the song was over, so we part amicably. I thank him for the dance and turn, on a mission now.

Cody. It all comes back to Cody. He’s all I’ve thought about tonight, surprisingly. I try to figure out when this happened but then I decide it doesn’t matter. It only matters that I need more time with him before one of the other girls, namely Hannah, snaps him up.

I search the room but have no luck. Maybe he’s gone to one of the balconies with Hannah. Jealousy and despair flood me at that thought. What if I’m already too late?

My expression turns to one of defeat and despair. This was my chance and I already wasted it. How could I be so stupid? My whole family is counting on me. I don’t want to end up with Thayer or Rylie. That would be no life worth living.

A hand touches my shoulder and I whirl around, still sullen. The figure standing across from me is Cody. Instantly my face lights up and I throw my arms around his neck enthusiastically.

“Hello to you, too, Callie. I’m so glad to see you again. Why were you so sad a Moment ago?”

“Oh, it’s nothing. I was just thinking about tonight and all the people I’ve met. You’re here now, and I’m happy to see you.”

Cody pulls me closer to him and whispers in my ear like earlier. A shiver pulses down me and I sigh. “I would love to take you out on the balcony to talk. As much as I enjoyed dancing with you, I’d like a little more privacy.”

When he steps back, I catch the look he gives me. It’s nervousness. What a strange reaction to me. I feel so comfortable around him that I never thought to be nervous.

I wrap my arms around his upper left arm and enjoy the flexing of his muscles beneath. I stick to him like glue as we make our way through the crowd and out to the nearest balcony.

As we step outside, I stop to close my eyes and inhale the night air. When I open them again, Cody is facing me, silent.

All of a sudden, I start to worry about why he’s so nervous. Maybe he hit it off with Hannah and is trying to let me down easy. That would be just my luck. I finally find a guy worth paying attention to and he is going to choose someone else.

“Were you having a good time with Hannah?”

I couldn’t stop the words from coming out of my mouth. How jealous did that just sound? I think I’m going to die of embarrassment if I ever make it out of this conversation. Deep breaths, Callie, I have to remind myself.

I’m not prepared for his response. Cody chuckles and his hazel eyes light up. At first, I think he is laughing at me and I frown. Then he pulls my chin up to meet our eyes.

“Hanging out with Hannah is nowhere near as exciting as spending time with you. In fact, I came to find you early because I had something I wanted to ask you.”

I hung onto that last part and just nodded. I’m not sure where this is going, but it’s unknown and exciting. He takes a step forward and I stop breathing altogether. His thumb lightly brushes across my cheek and then his hand drops to encompass my hand.

“I don’t know if you know this or not, but I have liked you for, like, ever. You never seemed to notice me. I was looking forward to tonight just for a chance to gain your interest. When my parents told me we would be meeting before the ball, I was stoked.”

He pauses for a second and then continues. “Then you walked in and you were different. It wasn’t just a tangible thing. It was a feeling you were giving off, like a vibe. I know in the past it almost seemed like you didn’t care about finding a mate.”

At that comment, I practically choke. “Yeah, priorities change.”

“When you’ve looked at me tonight, it’s like you see me for the first time. You are so beautiful when you smile, Callie.”

Then he steps forward until we are facing each other only inches apart. “I have to ask you, do you have any interest in me?”

His eyes search mine anxiously for an answer to his question. I think about waiting a beat and letting him sweat, but I’m too excited and I just can’t do it. “Yes, Cody. More than I expected to. What happens now?”

I see the relief in his eyes as he recomposes himself. “Could I ask you for a kiss, princess?”

Now I that have a stupid grin on my face. I’m almost too quick to answer. I have to know if there is chemistry to go with this connection we seem to have.

“I would be honored.”

That was all the encouragement he needed. He closes the small gap between us and gently grasps my head in his hands. His lips softly press down against mine and I feel a slight tingling where our lips are touching.

Slowly he intensifies the kiss, parting my lips. I let out a small “mm” sound and he pulls me against him. I can feel every hard plane of his body as it’s pressed against mine. I’m very aware of his hand at the base of my neck, sending tiny shockwaves from its touch.

I let our tongues intertwine and dance together in a frenzied rhythm. The smell of cinnamon is strong and he feels like home. I only have a minute to wonder what his blood would taste like in my mouth, against my lips.

My fangs descend and nick his lip. I try to stop, but I can’t. His blood tastes like honey as I trace my tongue over the small cut. It tastes like heaven and everything good in the world. My blood begins to hum and I am on fire with desire for Cody.

Embarrassed, I snap out of it and pull myself away quickly. My fluorescent violet eyes and fangs are enough to tell me how I feel about Cody. I put my hand over my mouth to cover my fangs, but he just gently grasps my hand and looks down at me. His own hazel eyes are ablaze and I know.

This is very real. Cody is the one. We are meant to mate.

I’m not sure how long we’re standing there before the Moment shatters. We hear Hannah asking everyone if they have seen Cody recently. Great, now I have to deal with Hannah. Cody, however, has other plans.

My fangs have finally disappeared but my eyes are still bright. I’m not sure what he has planned, other than the fact that he has pulled me into the corner next to the door so we are out of sight from inside.

I think I like his idea. He gazes at me through molten, amber eyes with need and desire. I almost blush under his scrutiny. He presses me against the stone wall and places his mouth on mine again.

Cody’s like a drug. Now that I’ve had him, I need him. I return the kiss with more passion and desire than the last kiss held. I want to melt into him right here. His breathing increases and I let out a moan as he nips at my lip.

I feel the blood well up, but don’t pull away. He tastes my blood and lets out a strangled noise of desire. I run my fingers through his hair and wait for what he is going to do next. He softly licks the wound closed and plants a slow, tender kiss on my lips.

When I open my eyes, I see that our eyes are still very much alight and burning with desire for one another. Both of us are breathing heavily and all I can spit out is “wow.”

“Mm hmm, wow about covers it,” he replies lazily.

He pulls me towards himself and wraps his arms around me in a gentle embrace. There is silence between us for quite some time before I speak up.

I whisper against his neck, next to his ear. “So what happens now?”

I feel his heart speed up and then he leans into my ear until he is touching the rim and making me shiver, in a good way.

“That’s up to you, princess. If I had it my way, we would be mated tonight, but I don’t want to push you. You’re amazing and I would be the luckiest guy in the world to have you.”

“I’m pretty sure we have already performed all the prerequisites for the mating ritual tonight with the bloodletting. You are like my drug, Cody. I couldn’t walk away from you now if I tried. I would very much like to be mated with you.”

Pure happiness spreads across his features as he pulls me up and swings me around in delight. I giggle in response. I want to savor this Moment forever. I have found my meant to be, my true mate.

However, happily ever after isn’t quite ours to grasp just yet. We’re very rudely interrupted at that Moment.

“Put her down, Cody. Come along. I want to introduce you to my parents. I’m sure we can convince them that we deserve to be mated,” Hannah says snidely.

My face goes red with rage and I want to knock that pretty, little head off her shoulders. I would have, too, if Cody hadn’t held me back and shook his head no. I back down, but remain on alert.

“I’m sorry, Hannah, but we won’t be mated together. I’ve already found my mate and it’s Callie.”

“Nonsense, we’re perfect for each other. Now, let’s go. I don’t want to keep my parents waiting.”

“No! I’m not going anywhere with you,” he says more firmly. “I don’t think you’re hearing me. I’m mating with Callie. There’s no you and me. Go find another guy to drag to your parents. There are plenty of them here.”

Hannah finally gets it and starts to pout. Oh, for heaven’s sake! “But they aren’t you, Cody! I want you!”

She looks like a two-year-old having a temper tantrum in a pretty dress. I want to laugh, but I’m too angry about her crashing in on my Moment.

Cody finally ignores her and turns to me. He pulls me forward and kisses my forehead. I grin ear to ear. Then he winds his hand in mine and we make our way around a very unhappy Hannah and back into the ball.

We vaguely hear her calling after Cody, but we just ignore her.

“Do you think we should celebrate with a drink?” I ask him.

He snatches two drinks from a nearby waiter and hands me one. “To new beginnings and happiness for the rest of our lives,” he toasts as we clink the glasses together.

I’m so happy. I don’t even need the blood high, but it’s welcomed nonetheless. I swallow the contents of my glass and wait for Cody to finish his. When he’s done, he grabs both of our glasses and sets them on a nearby empty table.

“Come on, we need to find Lord Dominique to make it official. Then we can tell our families.”

I smile and grasp his hand tighter. We’re really doing this. We’re going to initiate the blood bond tonight. The thought sends a thrill of excitement through me as we weave our way through the crowd of curious onlookers.

We finally reach a small, closed off room at the end of the ballroom, next to the staircase. Cody knocks loudly and we wait for permission to enter.

When the door opens, we are face to face with Lord Dominique himself.

“Well, Callie and Cody; what brings you to me tonight?”

“We wish to be mated, sir.”

He looks from me to Cody and then back again. “If you’re sure, come on in and shut the door behind you. Please, have a seat at my desk.”

Excitement races through me and I’m having a hard time keeping myself in check. Cody’s touch is the only thing grounding me right now.

“Initiating a mating is serious. There is no going back once the bond is started. I just need you both to be aware of this. This is forever binding.”

“We are aware and very excited to do this,” I say as I smile at Cody with more love and respect than I thought I could muster up for another person, especially after such a short amount of time. I mean, I have known him forever, just not like this.

“I agree. We’re ready,” Cody adds.

“Fair enough, let me get the tools and we’ll get started. Face the chairs toward each other while I’m gathering supplies and ensuring our privacy. This is a very sacred ritual.”

We do as we’re told and I squeeze both of Cody’s hands in excitement. He takes advantage of the situation and leans forward for a quick kiss. It reminds me why I am here and I become more excited, if it’s even possible.

Soon, Lord Dominique returns, setting various things on the desk. Then he goes to task preparing us. He ties our left hands together with silver infused rope to test our sincerity. It hurts like hell, but I know it has to stay on until the completion of the ritual. We are able to heal quickly, so it’s just the pain we have to endure.

Then, on our right hands, he must give us the mating seal. He heats the seal up with a flame and then dips it into the red ink. I am to go first. I give him my wrist face up and wait for the pain to come. He lines the seal up with the base of my wrist and then stamps it down in one swift motion.

At first, I want to pull my hand away from the pain. Lord Dominique holds it firmly in place and soon the pain dissipates. When he finally removes the seal, I am left with a family crest. The crest belonging to the vampires is tattooed on my wrist. I am officially a mated member of the community.

I look up at Cody and grin. He looks back at me with desire and determination. Lord Dominique repeats the process on Cody. He takes it admirably. There was no expression of pain and he remains stoic throughout the entire process.

Lord Dominique wipes the remaining ink off each of us with an alcohol pad. Now it is time for the words.

“Cody will go first. Please repeat after me. I, Cody Gregoria, pledge the mate bond to you, Callie Andell. I will go to the ends of the earth, heaven and hell for our love.”

Cody enthusiastically repeats the words and then it is my turn. “I, Callie Andell, pledge the mate bond to you, Cody Gregoria. I will go to the ends of the earth, heaven and hell for our love.”

“Great, now repeat after me together. May our houses be forever unified and our love never quantified.”

We both repeat the promise and wait for the last part of the ritual. “You may kiss your mate-to-be and untie each other’s bonds.”

Cody’s lips sizzle against mine as I return his kiss. With my right hand, I manage to untie the rope and have it off of him in a matter of seconds. I toss my end to the ground and wait for the rest of mine to be untied.

My rope comes off just after I fling his end to the floor. Relief settles into me and I deepen the kiss by taking my rope burned hand and wrapping it around Cody’s neck. He does the same and it feels like there is no one else in the world but us.

“I now pronounce you mates and may the remainder of this process go smoothly for the two of you.”

The mating is a seven day process. Our bond will grow stronger by the day until we unite on the seventh day, sealing our union. Because of the temptation that comes with the mating process, we have to be chaperoned for any time spent together until the seventh day.

A mating is a very private affair. We don’t have weddings like humans do. Our bonds are formed in private, making the whole process very intimate and special.

We stand up and thank Lord Dominique for his help. Then, hand in hand, we exit the room and shut the door behind us.

Now we have to announce it. It’s already obvious because we just came from the ritual room, but our parents will want to hear it from us never the less.

“Let’s tell your parents first, then we can bring them over to tell mine,” I say to Cody.

He leans over and kisses me on the cheek and I beam. Then he tugs me towards the other side of the room where his parents are mingling. When we reach them, hand in hand, all conversation in the vicinity comes to a halt.

Thankfully, the DJ starts up some pop beat and it covers up our drama. I look up at Mrs. Gregoria and grin like a child. I’m so over-the-moon happy, nothing can ruin this for us.

“Oh, dear, I see you two have started the mating. I’m so happy for you both. This is definitely a cause for celebration. I can’t imagine it happening to two better people.”

I let a little breath of relief escape me. I’m so glad Mrs. Gregoria accepts me. I’ll be part of her family after this. Our families will forever be united. I look over at Mr. Gregoria and he pulls me into a hug. I thank him and step back, into Cody’s arms.

“We still have to tell my parents. Would you guys like to accompany us?” I ask them.

“It would be our honor. This is simply wonderful news,” Mrs. Gregoria gushes as she proudly follows us across the ballroom and towards my parents.

My parents are already suspicious that something is up. I can see it in their eyes. However, I can’t help but be thankful for the look of surprise and pure joy that crosses their faces as they see Cody and I, hand in hand.

Our marks are clearly visible and my mother pulls me from Cody’s grip to fold me into a hug. My Dad pulls Cody forward and shakes his hand.

“Cody, it’s great to have you in our family. You will be a welcome addition to our part of the royal line.”

“Thank you, sir. I couldn’t be any happier to have found my true mate.”

“You guys are true mates? We don’t come across them very often. Are you quite sure?” my mother asks skeptically.

I wonder if she thought at first that I just picked a mate to make her happy. I will definitely have to rectify that misconception.

“Yes Mom, we are true mates. I am positive. We even tested our theory and it is in fact correct.”

Tears begin to form in my mother’s eyes. My Dad has to turn his attention to comforting her.

“I’m so sorry. I just never thought my daughter would get the chance to experience such a wonderful phenomenon in her lifetime.”

“I guess it’s time to announce you two. Head upstairs to be called. We all will announce you as a mated couple,” Mr. Gregoria says.

“Thanks,” I reply and then we quietly slip upstairs to wait.

Cody can’t keep his hands off of me. He has pulled me in for another kiss and I am helpless against him. I want him more and more each time we kiss. He’s something I never knew I needed but now can’t live without.

I don’t pull away until I hear our father’s announce us and we have to head downstairs. We walk together down the stairs, hand in hand, a smile plastered to each of our faces.

“Here is Callie Andell and Cody Gregoria, our first to be mated as a couple during this coming out!”

We stop at the bottom of the stairs and give the customary first public kiss. Clapping and the sounds of well-wishers ensue. Our kiss is broken yet again by the sounds of Hannah. She is so getting on my nerves.

“Cody is meant to be my mate! You stole him, Callie Andell!!” she screams out.

Anger flares up in me, but Cody just squeezes my hand tightly and I try to release some of it. How dare she. Cody is my mate. He is my true mate in every sense of the word.

“Excuse me everyone, but Hannah here is mistaken. Callie and I aren’t just mates, we’re true mates.”

Everyone around us gasps. True mates are so rare to find. This should have shut Hannah up, but no. She is a still acting like child in the middle of a temper tantrum who still isn’t getting her way.

“He’s my true mate, Callie!!!! You stupid cow, I will ruin you. Cody is MINE!!!!” she shrieks.

Now, I feel the anger roll off of me. She’s bat shit crazy. There’s no other explanation. Cody has grown angry and impatient. He pulls me to him and wraps his arm around my shoulder.

“Don’t do this to yourself, Hannah. I was never yours to have. I’m sorry if you felt that way, but it’s Callie. She’s my true mate and I can’t stand the thought of you ever doing anything to harm a hair on her head. Do you understand me, Hannah Monte?” Cody says in a strained voice.

Finally, someone got her under control. Hannah’s parents grasped her from both sides and guided her out the exit. She won’t be coming back tonight.

Trying to take some of the negativity back off the spotlight, we kiss again. Cody dips me down in a Hollywood style kiss and I grin at the crowd when we come up for air.

After our announcement and the crowd settles down, we part from our parents and head out to the dance floor. People are still watching us, but it is with more curiosity than anything. We are true mates.

A slow song comes on for the “new couple” and Cody pulls me close. I sigh and rest my head on his shoulder. The contact makes me feel warm and fuzzy. I have a buzz humming through my body, leaving me a ball of nerves.

We are quiet for most of the song, just basking in our newly formed bond. I know this is only the tip of the iceberg and our bond will grow stronger as our seven days culminate in our union. I never realized how alone I really felt until this Moment of warmth and love.

Cody kisses the top of my head as the song comes to a stop and it is time to break apart. I reluctantly step back and my eyes come up to meet his. I can tell his thoughts are along the same line as mine because his eyes have formed the telltale fluorescent halo around the pupils. I know my violet eyes are bright as well and that our true mate bond is apparent to everyone. The real evidence of our mating.

I turn and scan the crowd to look for Jane for the. I hear gasping in the crowd and chatter has started all around me. Everyone has recognized our eyes. They know the truth of our mating. We are not only true mates, but royalty as well.

If our bond gives us offspring, our place in line for the throne will be secured. We have a real chance of ruling our community. That thought sparks excitement in me. I am actually excited about the future, as long as it’s with Cody.

“What are you looking for Callie?” Cody asks me. vzyl

“I’m looking for Jane actually. I wasn’t able to tell her the good news earlier before we got announced.”

We didn’t have to look for long, because as soon as we make our way into the crowd, I’m nearly knocked over. Jane has thrown her arms around me in obvious excitement.

“I can’t believe this, Callie! Of all the people to possibly mate tonight, I never expected it to be you in a million years. I’m actually jealous. Congratulations!”

I grin at her excitement. “I still can’t believe it myself. I feel like I am in the middle of a fairy tale. I never thought this would happen to me. He’s my true mate, Jane. I am lucky to have found him. If you and my Mom hadn’t pushed me to try and make tonight happen, I never would have looked at Cody in that way. For that, thank you.”

“Girl, you are just a lucky bitch. I can’t find a decent man here to save my life. They are all duds. I hope I find a guy when we go to college.” She looks deep in thought and then a sad look crosses over her.

“You will be mated by then. We won’t be living together. That sucks. What am I going to do now, Callie?”

Cody steps up and grins at her. “You can always get a place next to ours and see her whenever you want. We haven’t discussed it yet, but we will probably live in the campus apartments at least for the first year. By then, Lana will be there and you can room with her if you haven’t found your mate yet.”

Leave it to Cody to turn things around on Jane. He is brilliant. I admire that.

“You know, Cody, you’re smarter than I gave you credit for. It is a great idea. Thanks,” Jane replies.

“So, Jane, do you want to come and stay on Wednesday? It’s probably going to be the last sleepover we can have for a while. I won’t be hunting on Friday either. The bonding ritual is Saturday and I will need to prepare. Besides, Mom won’t really want me to go now that I have found my mate. It’s kind of disrespectful to Cody.”

This seems to make Cody happy. He leans over and places a kiss on my cheek. I feel tingles where his lips come in contact with my skin. I smile and Jane giggles.

“What?” I ask.

“Nothing, you guys are just so cute together, is all. I really am happy for you both.”

“I thought you had dibs on that one guy from earlier. What happened?”

“It turns out Alice was a better fit for him. They have decided to date.”

“I’m sorry. I know you will find someone soon. You are a total catch and guys will be seeking you out after this, I know it,” I assure her.

“It’s cool. I still have time before the ball is over. I’m off to flirt with hot guys.”

As soon as Jane spins around and takes off, Cody pulls me to him and his lips settle on mine. I am grinning, even during the kiss. He pulls my bottom lip in his mouth playfully and I giggle. He’s going to be the death of me. Waiting to be with him until next Saturday will be torture.

When I finally break the kiss, I search his face for any trace of uncertainty about our mating. I see only joy and excitement, but mostly his adoration of me. I hug him and then pull away.

“Can you feel the bond developing?” I ask him.

“Not yet, I just feel the need to touch you all the time. I can’t seem to let you go. It is going to be torture to be away from you after this.”

“This is all so surreal. I can’t believe how lucky I am. You are amazing, Cody Gregoria.”

“I think that I’m the lucky one. I have the most beautiful girl and you are all mine. You make me so happy, Callie Andell.”

I feel my eyes start to glow, but I’m not worried about it this time. Everyone knows Cody’s my true mate and it’s just a symbol of our love for each other. Before I devour him right where we stand, I pull him with me.

“Where are we going?”

“To get another drink, if that’s okay. I don’t want to come down off cloud nine just yet.”

We stop in front of a waiter and Cody pulls two glasses off the tray. He hands one to me and we drink them down. My buzz is coming back and my gaze becomes glassy from all the blood I’ve consumed tonight.

After we finish our blood, Cody pulls me onto the dance floor. I follow him, giddy with excitement. It’s a fast song and we start off dancing across from each other. Soon though, our pull draws us together and I’m in front of him, dancing against him. He slides his hands down the silk of my dress and I shiver.

From behind, he kisses the back of my neck until he reaches my ear. He whispers into it and I draw a ragged breath from the sensation. “I could dance with you all night, princess. You have no idea how much you affect me.”

I did know how much he affected me, though. My whole body is humming in a mixture of pleasure and excitement. My world has been turned upside down in a matter of hours.

When the song stops, we step off the dance floor for a break. Being that close has me all keyed up. I am about to suggest we step out on the balcony again, but Cody has other ideas.

“Let’s go say hi to some of my friends from school. I would really like to introduce you to them. I also have to break it to Henry that we won’t be roommates next fall.”

“Sure,” I say, just happy to go anywhere with him.

He twines his fingers in mine and I follow him towards a group of guys standing around talking. I’m nervous about their reactions to me. I’m stealing him away from them. Sure he will still see them, but he’ll spend most of his time with me and he won’t be hunting anymore.

A surge of jealousy spikes through me at the thought of him feeding off random girls. I have to tamp it down and remind myself that I am the only one from this weekend on. Then my heart plummets out of my chest and sinks in my gut.

I have all but forgotten my little problem. Chase. I suddenly feel the blood drain from my face and am aware of just how serious things are now. I haven’t told Cody and he’s bound to find out soon. I can’t bear to see disappointment on his face. I love him, even though it is so soon.

Just before we make it to where his friends are, he whirls around and peers at me. Concern lights his face up and I suddenly feel the guilt of keeping something so big from him. I tell myself it is necessary and regain my composure.

“Callie, are you alright? What’s wrong? I can feel your anxiety. I guess our bond is forming.”

“It’s nothing. I’m just worried about where we are going to live after Friday. We only have a week to find a place,” I lie.

“Don’t worry about that. I’ll take care of everything. You just concentrate on our mating and how amazing we will be together.”

I grin, wiping all thoughts of Chase from my mind. I let my blood high creep back in and I can tell Chase feels my relief. Thank goodness he bought my little, white lie. In truth, I really am worried about finding a place, just not to that extent.

“Okay, let’s go meet my friends.”

We walk, hand in hand, over to the group and stop just before we reach them. Talking ceases and I can see the guys checking me out. Their eyes are looking at me as if I’m naked. I suddenly feel awkward in this dress. I am mated, and only Cody should feel that way about me.

Apparently, Cody feels that way too, because he lets out a growl. “Stop undressing my mate with your eyes.”

“Chill man. I was just seeing who made my roommate so smitten. No offense, Cody,” Henry says.

“Just keep your eyes to yourself and it will be all good. I plan to keep this one, hence the mate markings. Don’t make things awkward.”

Henry nodded and Cody turned his focus on the rest of the guys. “The same goes for all of you.” Then he turns to me. “Callie, these are my friends. Henry, Jack, Bennie and Matthew.”

“It’s wonderful to meet you all.”

“Sorry about earlier. We just didn’t expect Cody here to land someone so beautiful,” Bennie chimes in.

A blush begins to creep up into my cheeks at the complement. “I don’t know, I think I’m the lucky one.”

Cody smiles and leans over to kiss me. My eyes close at the feel of his lips on mine and I’m Momentarily distracted.

“Come on guys, get a room,” Henry jokes.

We pull away from each other and he wraps his arm around my bare shoulders. I feel a shiver that has nothing to do with the temperature. I don’t want to be rude, but I want to steal some more kisses before the night is over.

“It was great to meet you guys. If you don’t mind, I’m going to steal my mate away.”

Cody grins and waves goodbye as I tug him towards the balcony.

The minute the air hits my skin I feel a chill. Then Cody wraps his muscular arms around me and I feel nothing but warmth. He will be my sunshine when dark days come. I just hope we are fully bonded by then. It could save my life.

I reach up and run my fingers through his blonde hair and he sighs in contentment. I look into those hazel eyes and find them trained on me with a strange intensity.

“Hey, you,” I say.

“Hey, yourself,” he whispers before pulling me up on my tip toes to kiss him. The kiss is gentle and soft. He lets his lips brush against mine just enough to excite me. I wrap my arms around him and pull him closer still. I deepen the kiss, exploring the recesses of his mouth.

He pushes me backwards until I come up against the wall away from the doors and windows again. Nobody can see us here and it’s exhilarating. I let a small moan escape my lips as he brings his mouth back to mine.

We kiss for what seems like forever before he finally pulls himself away from me. His fangs have descended and I know we are playing a dangerous game right now, before we have truly mated. I look up at him and his hazel eyes are burning a halo of swirling amber with flecks of golden brown. I can feel their intensity. I know mine are glowing too and I am absorbed in his. They’re so amazing.

I can’t help all these feelings that have swept over me. Suddenly, I feel the need to bare my soul to him. I choose to be vulnerable for once. I bite the bullet and hope I don’t scare him off. “Cody, I have something to tell you.”

“You don’t have to say it if you don’t want to, Callie. I can feel it through our bond.”

“I want to. Cody, I love you.”

“You have no idea how happy that makes me, because I love you, too, Callie.”

Then his mouth covers mine in a passionate kiss that all but drives me completely wild.

When we finally manage to make it back inside, my parents find us. I would’ve been embarrassed if they had caught us making out on the balcony, so I’m glad they didn’t find us until we’re inside.

“Dear, we’re ready to leave now. The ball is winding down and it’s been a long night. Why don’t you say your goodbyes and meet us at the base of the stairs in five minutes,” Mom says.

I smile and nod before they walk away, leaving us alone. I’m thankful that they are giving me this time.

“It looks like I have to let you go for the night. While I’m not thrilled, I’m hoping we won’t be apart long. Would you like to spend the evening with me tomorrow at my house?”

“I would love that Cody. Pick me up at nine?”

“I wouldn’t miss it. I love you. I’ll miss you tonight.”

“I love you too. I already can’t wait to see you tomorrow,” I say as I pull myself up to him for one last chaste kiss.

Just telling Cody I love him sparks excitement in me. I can’t believe I love Cody. I had no idea the turn of events that would happen when this night first started. I’m certainly glad I opened myself up to take the ball seriously. He turns out to be the great catch I pegged him for, just for me instead.

I pull away from him reluctantly and make my way to the stairs where my parents are patiently waiting. I can’t look back for fear of running back in his arms. My self-control around him is almost nonexistent.

“Are you ready to go?” Dad asks me.

“Yup, let’s go before I change my mind. Then you’ll never be able to separate me and Cody.”

Mom and Dad chuckle and I follow them around the stairs and out the massive front door. Our car has already been fetched and the driver is standing outside of it with the door open.

I slip in, and my Mom follows. My Dad gets in last and the driver shuts the door. Everyone is quiet until the car starts up and is moving.

“I’m so glad you found your true mate tonight honey. We are so proud of you,” Mom says.

I beam at the praise. Just earlier this evening I was a disappointment and immature. I proved them wrong and surprised myself in the process.

“I feel like the luckiest girl in the world. I can’t imagine loving anyone else. Cody is it for me. That’s why we started the mating process. We didn’t want to wait, we knew already. We accidentally exchanged blood and found out just what it felt like to be true mates.”

“Exchanging blood is a dangerous process among vampires that are not true mates. You got extremely lucky. Things could have gone horribly wrong and you would be lusting after someone whom you wouldn’t necessarily want to mate with a week from now,” Mom says with concern.

“It all turned out okay Mom. There’s no sense in worrying about it now. I love him. We are already mating and next Saturday he’ll be mine. It’s surreal.”

“When are you seeing him again? Remember, you must have a chaperone at all times until the mating is complete,” she replies.

“He’s picking me up at nine tomorrow evening and we are spending time at his house. There will be plenty of people there.”

“Good. Listen, Callie, I hate to bring this up with such good news but we need to talk about Chase.”

“Daddy, please don’t ruin my fairytale night. Can’t this wait just until tomorrow?”

“I’m sorry, but this needs to be said. We will try to wipe his mind again tomorrow. If that doesn’t work, then we’re going to have to go to the council. We aren’t allowed to change a human unless it’s council sanctioned. If this happens, we’ll give you as much time as possible. Maybe the mating ceremony will be finished and you’ll be mostly safe from repercussions. Your life will be tied to Cody’s and they won’t ruin his life by killing you.”

“I understand. I really hope this gets fixed tomorrow and we have nothing to worry about. I want Cody. I don’t want to lose him.”

Tears begin to build up at that thought. I love him. I can’t live without him. The bond is already stronger than it would have been if we weren’t true mates. I know he can sense my distress because I can feel his confusion.

I cut off all thoughts of Chase now that the conversation is over and straighten up. I have to get a grip. I can’t project this kind of despair on Cody. It’s not fair.

I’m thrilled when we pull up to the house and I’m able to get out. Just before I hit the stairs to go up to my room, my parents stop me.

“Goodnight, Callie. It was a wonderful night. Get some sleep so you can have fun with Cody tomorrow. Then you can start packing. You’ll be moving in a week. That isn’t a lot of time to get your affairs in order,” Mom tells me with a kind smile.

“Goodnight Mom and Dad. I love you both,” I say before bounding up the stairs and shutting my bedroom door.

I just stand there, on the other side of the door, my eyes closed. I’m absorbing all the things that have happened since I woke up. My life has been turned upside down and I’m trying to get my brain to catch up with my heart.

A smile creeps up as I think about Cody and the way I felt when his eyes burned into mine with passion. Heaven help me, he’s going to be the death of me. This week is going to be torture. I can’t wait until the mating. I want him in ways I’ve never felt before.

I hear a sound and my eyes pop open. I search the room for the source of the noise, but don’t have to look far. Chase has stepped inside my balcony door and is leaning against the wall. Doom fills me like a bucket of ice water has just been splashed on me.

“Chase, what are you doing here?”

“I’m staring at you in that beautiful dress. Wow. How was the ball? You look absolutely radiant. I wish I could have been with you.”

I shift uncomfortably. I know he feels more than friendship, but now that I have Cody, it makes me ill to even think of another man. I could never ruin the good thing I have with him, especially for a human.

“Something happened tonight. I can see it in your eyes. Don’t tell me you did it. I wanted the chance to show you how good we could be together.”

“I found my true mate, not just any mate. He’s my soul mate. It’s not something I can control. I’m sorry, Chase. I wish there was something else I could say.”

“I see. I guess that changes everything then. I’ll stay here tonight, but I’m going home in the morning. There really isn’t a need for me to stick around. Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone the dark secret about your bloody obsession.”

“Chase, I’m sorry...” I start before he steps around me. He pulls the door open and leaves me alone with my thoughts.

As soon as I hear his footsteps retreat, I crumple to the floor and the tears begin to flow. I can’t stop them. I hurt Chase and I never wanted to do that. I don’t feel the same way he does. It doesn’t matter, because the whole thing just makes me feel awful.

If only I hadn’t found Chase last night. Then everything would be perfect. I could live my life without fear of the council or a death sentence. I didn’t even get the chance to tell him he isn’t actually allowed to leave. He will be locked in by morning and kept here until we are able to take care of my mishap.

I am pulled out of my pity party by my cell phone ringing on my nightstand. I hurry over to it and don’t recognize the number.

“Hello?”

“Callie, it’s me. Are you alright? What’s wrong? I can feel your unhappiness from here,” Cody says.

Cody. Oops. I didn’t mean to cause him pain too. That’s the last thing I want to happen. I can’t drag him into this mess unless I absolutely have to.

“I’m okay, really. Everything is just catching up to me and I don’t do well with change. It was just a minor freak out. I love you and I’m really excited to mate with you. I don’t ever want you to think otherwise.”

“It’s alright. I can understand that. It’s a lot of change in just a week. I’ll do my best to make the transition go smoothly for you. I want you to be happy.”

“That’s just it, Cody. I’m so happy. I don’t deserve to be this happy. You are perfect and I’m not. I don’t know why the bond chose me. I just hope I can live up to being a good mate.”

“How can you even think you’re not a good mate? I’m incredibly happy you’re my mate. I’m not perfect. Even if I was, you are perfect too. Perfect for me in every way. That’s why the bond chose you. We fit like two puzzle pieces. You never have to worry about that, ever.”

He says it with such conviction that I believe him. I just need to get my mind out of the gutter. He is affected by my moods now. I’m not being fair to him by breaking down or even lying to him. It makes me all the more ashamed of myself.

“I love you. I already miss you. I wish you could crawl up into my bed and hold me as I fall asleep,” I confess.

“I love you too, princess. You can’t believe how hard it is to be away from you already. I would give anything to be there, in your bed.”

I didn’t miss the innuendo and I smile. He’s amazing.

“It’s been a long night and I’m in need of a hot shower before bed. I’ll see you tomorrow night, right?”

“A shower, huh? Think about me, would you? I’ll sure be thinking about you. I won’t be able to get that image out of my head all night now, Callie. The things you do to me already. It’s going to be a long night.”

“You are definitely a typical guy. I love you. Goodnight, Cody.”

“I love you, too. Goodnight Callie.”

I hit the end button on my phone and make sure to program him into my contacts. Then I put him on number two speed dial, right behind Jane. After I place the phone back down, I get up and stretch my arms out. I’m exhausted.

After heading into my closet to grab a tank and a pair of shorts, I make my way into the bathroom. I turn the water on really hot. I need to loosen up. All this change is making me tense. I was telling Cody the truth about not enjoying a lot of change in my life.

I soak myself in the hot water until my skin turns a brilliant pink. I’ve managed to wipe away all my distress and leave nothing but thoughts of Cody. I’m back to grinning like a lovesick girl, which I actually am.

Once I dry off and get dressed, I brush the tangles out of my hair. I open the bathroom door, letting all the steam escape. My dress is hanging on the back of the bathroom door and that’s where it’s going to stay tonight. I’m so tired.

Trying to distract myself, I place my ear buds in my ears and start my night time playlist. I’m hoping it will soothe my thoughts and help me fall asleep. I can hardly wait for tomorrow. I want to see Cody so badly. I don’t know if it’s just my feelings or his wrapped in there too. I’m feeling nothing but euphoria from him.

I climb into bed and get comfortable. I don’t make it long. I’m just so tired.

As soon as I am awake, I bolt out of bed. I can’t believe how excited I am to see Cody. All I can think of is running my hands through that sexy hair of his and kissing those soft lips. I want to feel the definition of his muscles and wrap myself in his arms. Just the thought of his intense, hazel eyes settling on mine gives me shivers.

I throw the covers back up half assed over my pillows. I don’t really care about them this evening. I pull the door to my room open and bound down the stairs into the kitchen. As usual, Mom is already in there, drinking her blood cocktail. I pour myself a glass and have a seat at the table.

“Good evening sweetie. How are you doing? Are you excited to see Cody?”

“I’m fantastic, Mom. I’m dying to see Cody. It totally sucks being away from him.” (Listen to me with the vampire jokes today. I crack me up.)

“It’s good to see you in such good spirits. It’s something I only ever see when you go hunting with Jane.”

That does it. That stops all thoughts of Cody. The room goes silent and I know she feels bad, I can see it in her eyes. I’m stunned though. I’ve managed to temporarily forget Chase in my excitement over seeing Cody.

I take another sip of my blood in silence. Then Dad walks in. He can feel the tension in the room and just dives right in. “Your mother and I will deal with Chase today while you’re with Cody. With any luck, he’ll be gone when you get home.”

I look up, hopeful. This mess could be over today. Then I can get on with my life with Cody. I can only hope. “Thanks Mom and Dad. I appreciate it.”

“Don’t thank us yet. We don’t even know if it will work,” Dad says.

I drain my cup and jump up with excitement. “Well, I have to go get ready for my date with Cody. I’ll see you guys after I get back, okay?”

“Sure, dear. Have fun tonight. Cody’s a good boy. You are lucky to have him in your life now, Callie,” Mom replies.

I just smile and hurry up to my room. When I get there, I notice my phone is lit up. I have a text and a voicemail. I listen to the voicemail first and it’s from Jane.

“Hey girl, I need the scoop. I didn’t find a mate, so I have to live vicariously through your mating. Call me sometime tonight when you get a chance! Later babe.”

Shaking my head at her voicemail, I check my text. My heart starts beating wildly. It’s from Cody.

Good evening, princess. I love you. I’ll see you at nine.

I hurry up and send a reply before taking my shower.

I love you too! Can’t wait to see you! I’ll be waiting

I’m still wearing my stupid grin when I get out of the shower. Now I have to find something to wear. It’s warm enough out, but I don’t want to dress in anything too skimpy. Easy access equals getting carried away. That means sundresses are out.

I narrow it down to a pair of frayed, jean shorts, but I’m still trying to find the perfect shirt. Finally, my eyes land on a teal tank top trimmed with lace on top and bottom. It’s perfect. I put everything on and search for shoes. I go with a pair of sequin trimmed, black sandals.

Satisfied, I spend the rest of the time drying my hair and fixing my makeup. My hair is down and straight like usual. It’s always straight. My hair is next to impossible to curl. I finish my makeup with expert care.

Finally ready, I shove my phone in my back pocket and head downstairs. Mom and Dad are still in the kitchen so I go into the living room and turn on the television. I try to watch it, but I’m so keyed up that my thoughts keep straying to Cody.

I pull my phone out and look at the time. Its ten minutes until nine. I tap my foot anxiously. This waiting thing is hard. I just want to be in his arms, kissing him, connecting with him. Finally, I just give up and shut the television off. I have no desire to watch it anyway.

I’m about to go in and talk to Mom and Dad as a distraction, when the doorbell rings. I practically knock Finn, the butler, out of the way in my attempt to get to the door. I throw it open and fling myself in Cody’s arms.

He has a bouquet of flowers in his hands but manages to get them away before I crash into him. I take one look into those hazel eyes I’m coming to adore and kiss him. The world just falls away as I melt into the kiss. I feel a sense of comfort being in his arms again.

“Mm, it’s good to see you, too,” he says between the kisses I am raining down on him.

When I pull away, I’m smiling. He hands me the bouquet of flowers. “These are for you. They’re not as beautiful as you, but they will have to do.”

They are a dozen red roses. I inhale the sweet fragrance and I am still grinning like an idiot. I tug him inside with me while I go to the kitchen to put the roses in a vase.

Mom sees us and puts her hands out. “Just hand me the flowers honey. I’ll get them in some water. You go enjoy yourself.”

“Thanks, Mom.”

“You’re welcome and have fun.”

I squeeze Cody’s hand tightly and we head out into the warm summer evening. He places his hands on my waist as he guides me to the truck. He is all gentlemanly as he opens my door and helps to lift me up into his big, black truck.

I can tell it’s no hardship for him to place his hands on my waist and lift me up into the seat. His muscular frame is hot. He shuts the door behind me and slides into the driver’s seat. I’m at ease. Being in Cody’s presence again has lulled me into a sense of peace and happiness.

He grasps my hand and pulls it to his lips and kisses it. Then we are off, pulling out of my driveway and onto the road. The moonlight spills over the view of the community and I admire it. I must have been smiling because Cody brings my attention back to him.

“What’s making you so happy? You feel very Zen right now.”

“There are a million different ways I could answer that question. The moonlight flooding the valley is gorgeous, I’m with you, I’m in love. Do I need to go on?”

“I don’t know, I think I have you beat. I’m in love with the most beautiful princess in all the land and for some reason, she loves me back. I can’t wait for Saturday. I want to be with you, united, in love and together. There couldn’t be anything better in this life.”

I’m blushing now. He’s laying it on thick, but I like it. It makes me feel loved and like the princess I am. Who could have foreseen this? Cody and I are true mates and by some miracle, we’ve found each other.

It’s a short drive to his house and we are there in minutes. He parks and hurries around to open the door for me. Once again, he grasps my hips and lifts me out of the truck. Only this time, I slide down and come face to face with him just inches from me.

I breach the gap and indulge in a kiss. He tastes like cinnamon mint. He must use cinnamon toothpaste. Yum. My body is pressed against him and he leans me into the side of the truck. I close my eyes and let everything fall away except the feel of his mouth caressing mine.

He pulls away first, but I can feel how excited he is. It is very satisfying to know I have that effect on him. “You are going to get me in trouble, Callie. We can’t do this out here, and I certainly have no willpower against your feminine wiles.”

“Who says I have any willpower when it comes to you?” I tease.

“Come on, woman. Let’s go make our appearance for my parents. I think they want to grill us.”

“Ugh, are you sure we can’t get out of it?”

“My parents are very persistent. It is inevitable so we might as well get it over with.”

“Okay, but you owe me later,” I reply with a wink.

“I’m counting on it,” he says in a husky tone that leaves no room for doubt.

Cody pushes open the door and we step inside. I’ve never been to Cody’s house. Shocking, I know, given the small community that we are. Truth is, I’ve never been close to Cody until now. His parents ran in the same circles as mine, but we usually weren’t allowed around the grown up events. I see Lana at school and hang out with her occasionally, but we’ve never spent time here.

I’m not surprised when Lana bounds down the stairs and wraps me up in a big hug. “Holy hot sauce, I am going to have a sister! You’re the best sister I could imagine having. I’m so happy for you guys!”

“Thanks, Lana. I’m pretty excited myself. Your brother’s amazing. It’ll be great to spend more time with you.”

“I’d love that, Callie. I’ve always wanted a cool sister.”

“I’ll tell you what. I need to go out with Jane one day this week to get my mating gown. Would you like to come with us? We can catch dinner, too. Make a girl’s night out of it,” I suggest even though the thought of being away from Cody makes me ill.

“That’d be awesome! Just give me a call when you get the date nailed down.”

“I will,” I say before turning my attention to Cody again.

“Alright, let’s do this. Lana, we’ll see you later.”

He tugs me gently towards a room down a short hallway. Cody knocks on the door and we wait until his Dad says, “come in.” He opens the door and we step into a gorgeous sitting room.

“Oh, Callie. It’s great to see you again,” Mrs. Gregoria says to me.

“Thanks, Mrs. Gregoria. It’s great to be here.”

“Oh, dear, call me Ginger and Cody’s Dad is Nick. You are going to be family. None of this formal stuff anymore.”

“Okay, Ginger. Thanks.”

Cody pulls me down to the rich, gold settee and I scoot into him. His presence soothes me. I only hope it will always be like this.

“It’s so great to see a young couple in love. I can only hope Lana finds someone special the way you two have found each other. Being true mates is an amazing gift,” Ginger says.

“I’m sure you’re wondering why we wanted to talk to you this evening,” Nick adds.

I nod a simple response.

“Cody told me you were nervous about the transition. We want to make it as smooth as possible for you both. What would you think about having a condo in the East village, just five minutes from campus?”

My eyes light up. I wouldn’t have to live in campus housing? I didn’t even consider that possibility. “That would be amazing. I just want to be with Cody; wherever he is, I’m happy.”

Nick chuckles. “I’m glad you feel that way. We own a condo and Ginger and I want to give it to you two as a mating gift. Before you try to protest, I won’t take no for an answer.”

“Thank you. That’s a wonderful present that we can cherish together.”

“Thanks Mom and Dad. I know we will make some great memories together there.”

“Now, Callie, have you decided when you want to have your mating pre ceremony? I hope you haven’t planned anything yet.”

“I haven’t planned anything. Maybe we can do it Thursday, if that is okay with you. I’m sure my Mom and Jane will be fine with it.”

“That’s perfect. I promise we’ll keep it small, just friends and family. You’ll get a lot of wonderful gifts to start your lives off together. I got some of the most fabulous things at mine. Lana and I will coordinate with your Mom.”

“I’d love that, Ginger.”

Apparently, Cody’s had enough. “I’m going to steal my mate away and show her the gardens now.”

He stands up and pulls me with him, never letting go of my hand as we say goodbye.

As soon as we are out the door, Cody grasps me around the waist and pushes my back to a nearby wall. I can’t help but laugh as he comes closer and leans down to kiss me. Familiar sparks light a fire in my belly as our tongues mingle.

I giggle again and pull away. “We’re in the hallway, Cody. Behave yourself.”

“Mm, that’s not possible with you. Let’s at least get away from prying eyes and make out in the garden like real teenagers,” he says in a teasing tone.

I’m so happy; I hope nothing ever ruins this. I would do anything to keep this love. Cody’s my mate and the bond is getting stronger by the hour. I don’t know if I can survive until Saturday to make it official.

He senses what I’m feeling and squeezes my hand. We don’t say anything until we exit through the back door and slip around the giant hedges, out of sight.

“This is much better. Follow me. Let’s go sit on the bench.”

He guides me through rows of hedges and flower beds. All the flowers are in bloom and the flower beds are a myriad of beautiful colors. The smell of Jasmine is heady and I stop to smell it. When we finally make it to the bench, I am in awe.

In front of me is a decorative concrete bench, but that’s not what holds my attention. There is a giant fountain in the middle. Soft light reveals the glistening drops of water as they fall. It’s gorgeous and gives me a serene feeling.

As I take in the fountain before me, Cody wraps his arms around me and I just stand there enveloped in his arms. I close my eyes and let everything but Cody and the sounds of the fountain fade away.

This is a little slice of heaven. I’m so glad he brought me here. I can hear the water in the fountain and the smell of the flowers. I can hear the beating of Cody’s heart behind me. I take in all of this and stamp it in my memory to refer back to at a later time.

When I finally turn around to look at Cody, he’s studying me. I quirk a quick smile then tug him over to the bench. We sit, side by side, in silence as I take everything in. I’m enjoying this place and know it will be one of happiness for us.

I lay my head on Cody’s shoulder and sigh.

“I love you, Callie. I never thought I could love someone as much as I love you. I’m so happy I found you. Now that I’ve found you, I’m never letting you go.”

“I love you, too.”

That’s all I can say because I can’t guarantee he will have me forever. Until Chase is dealt with, my future is uncertain. I wish so badly for this situation to go away tonight.

Just the thought of hurting Cody brings tears to my eyes. It is the cruelest thing I could ever do to someone. Chase should have never happened. I’d give anything to go back to that night and change it. I would never have looked his way, never indulged in my needs with him.

Cody lifts my chin up and frowns. “Are you okay, princess? What’s wrong?”

He sees my tears and it’s so hard to hide my pain from him physically, but I can’t hide mentally. He can feel my remorse and I know I have to tell him something.

“I just can’t imagine you with any other girls before me. It makes me jealous and sad to picture you taking blood and kissing other girls. How far you could have taken things is gnawing at my insides. I can’t help it. Pictures keep popping in my head and my imagination just runs away with me.”

It’s not the whole truth, but it’s a truth. I can’t push the images away and as our bond grows stronger, my jealousy spikes. I can’t believe how emotional this mating has made me. My life, hanging in the balance because of Chase, hasn’t helped either.

Cody wraps his arms around me and I nestle against his chest. I don’t bother to hide my tears. He can feel my sorrow anyways.

“I want you to understand something, Callie.”

I look up into his hazel eyes and see his sincerity.

“There will never be another girl for me. It was you the moment my lips met yours. I don’t care about humans, in your past or mine. Of course, I am jealous as hell of your past with Jane. I know how you two picked your humans and all the hot guys you’ve seduced. It makes me crazy to think about.”

He pauses and then continues with his speech. “The one thing that keeps me sane is the fact that at the end of the day, you’re mine. Soon, you’ll be coming home to me. You’ll only ever be in my bed. I’ll never share you where it really counts. The past has to stay in the past.”

Too bad my past won’t stay buried. My past followed me home and I’m crazy with worry over it. I so badly want to share with Cody what has happened. I want to prepare him in case… I can’t even finish that trail of thought.

“Thank you. I feel much better after hearing your perspective.”

“You’re welcome. Anytime you want me to cheer you up, I will. It’s my job to make you the happiest mate ever. You’re mine and you will be the mother to our children. I can’t imagine anything different.”

I wrap my arms around his neck and place my mouth over his, effectively changing the subject. He eagerly returns my kiss, ratcheting up the intensity. His kiss is slow and controlled. He is dominating me and I let him. It’s pretty hot.

Desire hits me full force and I struggle to keep it in check. I want to do things to him and images flood my imagination. I know he can feel my desire because his kisses become more demanding and his hands begin to wander.

He settles them on my hips and pulls me onto his lap. I let out a moan as I settle and that is all it takes. The dam breaks. We kiss and he plays with the hem of my tank top, running his hands softly against my bare skin. I shiver from the pleasure his touch brings.

He begins to kiss my jaw and then my neck. Before I know it, his fangs have descended. I only have a seconds notice before I feel the pierce of them into the soft flesh of my neck. It takes a moment for the pain to recede and the euphoria to take over. A flood of pleasure rushes through me as he drinks.

My mouth waters at the feeling and my own fangs descend. He pulls away, finally, and I’m quick to sink my own fangs into his neck. He cradles my head as I drink. I am practically lost in the taste of him. He tastes so sweet, with just a hint of metallic. I know that I’m dangerously close to losing control.

As swiftly as I started, I pull away, breathing heavily. I seal the puncture marks and then lick the remainder of his blood off my lips while my glowing eyes find his. His have ignited and are full of fire. I know mine must resemble his because I feel the intensity between us. My eyes are probably glowing violet with an iridescent purple ring around my swirling pupils.

We’re both breathing heavily and staring at one another. It’s then I realize that I am straddled across his lap. I know the blood high will hit me soon and I want to be someplace more comfortable with Cody.

“That was…um amazing. Let’s go inside so we can actually enjoy our blood high.”

He lifts me up and sets me upright on the ground as he stands to his full height. His fingers intertwine with mine and we make our way out of the garden. I’m happy that our licks seal the wound because sharing blood is a pretty intimate experience and I don’t exactly want to broadcast our activities to his family.

“How about watching a movie? I’m sure I can find something we will enjoy.”

“I think that sounds perfect, but only if you snuggle up to me on the couch,” I reply.

“Deal,” he says as we open the back door and he leads me down a hallway and into a den.

The den is decorated tastefully and I know his Mom has done it. I peer at the impressionist paintings lining the walls and smile. This woman has good taste. She has some fabulous pieces. I’m actually a little jealous.

Cody goes to a cabinet and pulls out a couple movies. We finally settle on a classic, Alice in Wonderland. This is the darker, remade version that I happen to love so much. Off with their heads! I think and chuckle to myself.

“What’s so funny, Callie?”

“Oh, I was thinking of my favorite line from the movie, ‘Off with their heads,’ that’s all.”

“My favorite line is, ‘I’m late, I’m late, for a very important date,’ with the white rabbit,” he responds.

He pops the movie in and then pulls me down to the couch on top of him. We spoon as the movie starts, my back facing him and his arms wrap possessively around me.

I sink into his embrace and let the movie carry me down the rabbit hole.

Soon, I feel Cody’s breathing on my neck even out into a slow and steady rhythm. He’s asleep. It’s an amazing feeling to be in his arms while he’s so peaceful. I let his breathing slow down my own and before long, my eyes drift shut.

I wake to the feeling of someone tucking my hair behind my ear. I look up to see Cody looking down at me. Smiling, I tilt my head up just enough for my lips to meet his. This kiss is slow and chaste. I feel his soft lips pressed against mine and I sigh. He is whom I want to wake up to every day from the rest of my life.

“I like watching you sleep. You’re so relaxed, it is amazing to see. You’re beautiful, Callie. I’m the luckiest man in the world. I just wanted to tell you that.”

“Well then, I must be the luckiest girl in the world, because I seem to have landed you and I think you’re nothing short of amazing.”

He grins and I lean up for one last kiss. It doesn’t last long, because there is a knocking at the door. We sit up and adjust our clothes to make ourselves presentable.

“Come in,” Cody says.

The door opens and his Mom is standing there. Her expression is neutral so I’m not sure what’s coming next. There is no smile and I shiver a little. Whatever it is, it can’t be good.

“Callie, your Mom called and she needs you home right away. She said something about needing to talk about mating plans. It’s getting late anyways. Cody, can you drive her home now?”

“No problem, Mom. I’ll get Callie home right away.”

“It was nice to see you. I hope to see you around a lot this week.”

Then she’s gone, just as fast as she came. I feel a sense of dread. Something went wrong, I just know it. I don’t want to ever have to tell Cody. I just want this thing to quietly go away.

Cody can feel my sudden change in emotion, but he doesn’t comment on it. He must be getting used to my wacky mood swings. I hope I’m with him long enough to prove I’m not usually this moody.

“You ready to go, princess?”

“Yup, I guess I need to get home. Mom hates to be kept waiting.”

He clasps my hand and I follow him out the maze he calls home and into the breezy evening. He, once again helps me into the truck and, before I know it, we have driven the short distance to my house.

I don’t want my time with Cody to be over. I want to be wrapped in his arms, and have him never let go. It’s painfully hard to leave him. I didn’t expect that. Like the gentleman he is, he helps me out and walks me to the door.

I’m trying to formulate what I need to say when he wraps me in a gentle embrace and kisses me. I stand on my tip toes to give him better access. We would have stayed that way for some time if the porch light hadn’t turned on and flooded us with light.

“That’s my cue. I have to go, unfortunately. I love you. Do you want to go to a real movie tomorrow night? I can get a security detail so we can go out.”

“I love you, too, and yes, I’d love to go out with you,” he says as he pulls away.

He turns to leave and I watch him go. I feel the yearning for him to stay, but I know I have to face whatever is coming inside. He blows me a kiss and I smile. Then he’s in his truck and heading out of my driveway.

I stand on the porch until I see the taillights fade. Then I open the front door to enter my own personal hell.

Slamming the front door shut and slipping off my flip flops at the door, I look around to see my Mom sitting at the bottom of the stairs. I meet her eyes and see the sadness there. No, this can’t be happening. I shake my head no, but she nods her head yes.

“It didn’t work, did it?”

“No, dear, it didn’t. We both tried and had no success. I can sense something different about him.”

I go over and sit next to my Mom.

“I felt it too. What do you think it is? How can he be immune to us?”

“I don’t know, but we have been grilling him all night. All we know is that his Mom died of cancer six months ago and he doesn’t know his father. That is the only lead we have. I’m afraid it just isn’t enough. If we go digging, we have to involve people to do that. Then this gets out.”

“So what are we going to do now, Mom?”

“The only thing we can do. We have to involve the council. I’m sorry, honey.”

Tears form in my eyes and I feel them leak out. “No, this can’t happen. I love Cody and he’s my true mate. I can’t do this to him. What if he stops loving me because I betrayed him?”

“I can’t speak for Cody, but if he is your true mate, nothing will stop him from loving you. The council will take that into consideration. Of course, they will test your blood to be sure your blood has really bonded together, but they won’t break up true mates. That is the one thing you have in your favor. The downside is it looks pretty grim for Chase.”

“They can’t kill him. He’s innocent. He didn’t ask for this. I did this to him.”

“True, but the council won’t care. They will only be concerned with keeping our secret. If he’s lucky, they’ll turn him. If he’s not, they’ll kill him. We can only tell them the facts and hope for the best possible outcome.”

I lean on her shoulder and cry. She wraps her arms around me and lets me. After my tears slow, Mom gently pulls me up.

“It’s going to be a long couple of days. I suggest you go to bed early and get some rest. Your Dad and I will give you tomorrow with Cody before we tell the council. Use your time with him. It can only strengthen your blood bond as well as your mating.”

“Can I ask you a favor?”

“Sure, honey. What is it?”

“Can we tell Cody first? I don’t want him to hear it from someone else or worse, the council. I want to have the chance to say goodbye, you know, just in case.”

“I will talk to your father, but I think that will be okay since the council will take a little while to assemble and get here. The only caveat is that you can’t tell him until after we’ve told the council. If it gets out before they know, your life will be in jeopardy.”

I stand up and turn towards Mom one last time.

“Goodnight, Mom. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

I watch my Mom walk away and then I climb the stairs. I throw myself face first into my bed and continue sobbing. I’m miserable. How will Cody ever forgive me? I have not only brought shame to my family, but his as well.

I feel my phone buzz in my pocket. I take a deep calming breath and pull it out. It’s a text message from Cody.

Hey princess, are you okay? Whatever it is, we’ll get through it. I can feel how sad you are. I’m sorry for whatever you’re going through. I love you –Cody

Trying to be calm, I respond.

Meet me at my house at eight. I was just having a little fight with my Mom about our mating details. It’s nothing I want to worry you with. I love you too <3 –Callie

I drop my phone to the floor and continue to cry. It seems like forever before I can breathe enough to change. I leave my clothes in a pile on the floor, not even bothering to put them where they belong. Then I throw on my soft, emerald green tee.

I pull the covers down and slide in between them. Then I wrap myself in misery.

When I wake up, I feel numb. At least the sadness has subsided and I’m no longer inflicting it on Cody. He must think he’s mated to an emotional mess.

There’s no time to feel like this tonight. I want to make the best of my time with Cody. This could be the last night of true happiness. That idea darkens my thoughts and my mood turns grim.

I take a deep breath and shake it off. Looking at the clock, I realize I have only forty-five minutes until Cody gets here. Without another thought, I rush to get ready.

Thirty minutes later, I’m dressed in a long, black, flowing skirt and a sparkling, magenta tank top. I wear my sequined flip flops again and my hair is tied up in a loose, messy bun. I look the best I can under my time constraints.

I rush to the kitchen for my blood cocktail. I don’t think I will be exchanging blood with Cody tonight since we will be in public for our date. Anticipation seeps into me as I realize this will be our first real date. Who’d have thought Cody and I would be on a date together?

The roses sit on the counter in a clear vase and my heart beats a little bit faster. They are beautiful and I make my way over to smell them. I have my eyes closed and am indulging my sense of smell when I hear someone clear their throat.

Dad is standing in the doorway. He smiles at me and I grin back. I can’t help but be excited about tonight. I let all the other worries melt into the background and put myself in the here and now.

Dad must sense my unwillingness to talk and just nods to me before making his way to the fridge. He pulls out the carafe of blood and pours us each a glass. We say nothing and enjoy the silence as we drink our blood.

As soon as I finish, I’m pulled out of my reverie by the doorbell. I head out of the kitchen as I hear Finn and Cody exchanging pleasantries.

Bounding into the foyer, I rush Cody. He looks up and smiles just before I crush my lips to his. His arms go around me and I faintly hear Finn’s footsteps recede. Our kiss becomes light and playful before we both pull back altogether.

“Hey, princess. How’re you feeling tonight? I missed you so much last night; I wished I was here to comfort you. I felt so helpless. Soon, you won’t be able to stop me from cheering you up,” he says with a mischievous grin on his face.

He’s feeling lighthearted and flirty tonight and I’m excited to spend some time with him. I interlace my fingers in his and tug him towards the door. I’m ready to get out of here before my parents change their mind and call the council tonight.

I shake off a shiver at that thought and look back to smile at Cody. His golden blonde hair is curling around his ears tonight and I crave the feel of it between my fingers. Gah! My brain is turning into lusty mush.

Opening the door, I finally respond to Cody’s declaration.

“I can’t wait for that time to come. I’m having a hard time keeping my thoughts off you and we aren’t even fully mated yet. What are you doing to me, Cody Gregoria?”

He shows me a lopsided grin and guides me out of my house. “Trust me; it’s no more than what you do to me. I’m obsessed with you and I crave being with you all night. I go to bed thinking of you and I wake up thinking of you. You have me wrapped around your little finger, Callie.”

“I have you wrapped around my finger, huh? Let’s test that theory. I want to go see a chick flick tonight,” I say, testing the waters.

He lets out a sigh and I know I’ve won. I wink at him and wait next to the truck for him to open the door and let me in. I feel his hands casually lift up the fabric of my tank top around my waist as he prepares to lift me up and into the seat.

I shoot him a knowing look but he just shrugs and sets me into the truck. When his hands are gone, I feel the loss against my skin.

Cody holds my hand as we leave. It’s a comforting gesture that I’m definitely happy to get used to. He turns on the radio and I’m instantly fascinated by his choice in music. I love punk music. I had Cody pegged for more of a country kind of guy.

We get past the gate and out of the community easily enough. I know there is a car behind us. My Dad put a security detail on us, just to be safe. I didn’t argue with that, especially with everything going on.

I don’t feel the need to fill our silence with constant chatter. The quiet between us is a comfort with all that’s floating around in this head of mine. I take advantage and turn up the upbeat song. The music takes over and I can feel the beat of the drums vibrating through the truck.

Since we’re vampires, we don’t eat. Well not food anyways. That kind of cancels dinner out unless we want to hunt together. Unfortunately, we can’t. The thought of him doing something so intimate with a girl, even if she’s human, is unbearable.

He winks at me and a brilliant smile spreads across his face. I can tell he knows what I am thinking. This bond thing is intense. I can’t imagine how strange it will be once we’ve fully bonded.

Knowing the effect my moods have on him, I try to push my worries of Chase out of my mind. Things are totally out of control and I know tomorrow will be a scary day. I don’t have any idea how Cody’s going to take everything. I can’t lose him. I won’t lose him.

“What’re you thinking about over there, princess? You seem a million miles away.”

“Hmm, oh, I’m just thinking about how hard it’s going to be to wait until Saturday for our bonding. It feels so far away.”

I know I’m lying my butt off, but it’s still a truth. I wish our bonding would just get here already. Being with Cody is so magical. He makes me think about things I’ve never even considered before. With him, I want to experience everything.

Just the thought of another blood exchange has goose bumps cropping up across my exposed flesh. I tighten my grip on his hand and he pulls our hands up to kiss mine.

I just want to swoon when I’m around him. Our kisses are the magical kind you always see in movies, but never really thought were real. That’s one myth I’ve managed to dispel.

We pull into the movie theater and park. Cody comes around and helps me out, but doesn’t elicit anything more. He must be on his best behavior. I’m not sure if I like that or not. I’m growing used to the attention.

Cody buys us tickets to the girly movie of my choice and I’m grinning from ear to ear. I’m stoked to see this movie and it’ll be even better with him.

We make our way through the theatre and find ourselves a cozy spot in the back. This way we can canoodle all we want. The security detail will sit by the doors, so I know we’re covered.

As the previews start, I pull myself closer to Cody and snuggle into his arms. I can smell the scent of cinnamon and man that is unique to Cody. I don’t think I’ll ever grow tired of that smell.

I make it most of the way through the movie without shedding tears. Damn, I didn’t even think of that. It’s a particularly emotional part of the movie and I sniffle. Cody leans into me and lifts my chin to meet his eyes.

Tears are forming and have begun to stream down my cheeks. Cody takes the pads of his thumbs and softly brushes the tears away. My eyes flutter closed for a minute at the feel of his hands touching me so intimately.

I finally get ahold of myself and let out a deep breath. I can’t think of a more perfect movie Moment. I am growing to cherish every minute we have together. If we are with each other for five more minutes or five hundred more years, I will always be grateful for the time I have with him.

I’m so wrapped up in my own sappy thoughts that I don’t even realize the movie is over. Cody stands and gently pulls me up. I thank him and we make our way out of the row of seats and into the main aisle. The guards nod to us and I smile back at them.

“Thank you for taking me here tonight.”

“No problem, princess. It was worth it to see you happy.”

I don’t say anything to that, just quietly follow Cody’s lead as we walk out of the theater and to the truck.

Worry settles over me like a blanket as my thoughts stray to Chase. I quickly divert my attention and force myself to focus on anything else I can grasp at. I look over and sag in relief that Cody didn’t notice my almost panic.

I’m so busy warding off my unwanted thoughts that I don’t even realize we have turned off the main road and are heading to parts unknown. When I finally realize it, my brows furrow and I peer at Cody skeptically.

He sees the look on my face and flashes me a crooked grin. “We’re just taking a detour. I have a small surprise for you.”

“A surprise, huh? I’m not big on surprises. You better just tell me now,” I reply, only half joking.

“Relax, princess. We’re almost there.”

I like how he calls me princess. When anyone else says it, it feels stiff and formal. When he says it, it’s full of affection and warmth.

We finally pull onto a gravel road and Cody cuts the engine. This is my surprise? I think he must be delusional, because all I can see is a field. Huh.

“I know what you’re thinking, but I promise you’ll like this.”

“Okay,” I say skeptically.

Cody gently pulls me out of the truck and then reaches back behind the seat for something. I don’t have to wait long to see what he’s after. He pulls out a folded up quilt and shuts the door.

I don’t say anything, just look at him quizzically. He grasps my hand and tugs me gently forward. We walk through the field and I’m thankful that it’s been mowed down recently. I didn’t want chiggers. I like being the predator, not the prey.

Soon, we stop and Cody lays out the blanket. Ever so gently, he pulls me down next to him. I slip off my flip flops and then look over at him.

“Lie down and look at the stars with me. It’s an amazing view out here. I come out here when I want to think or just be alone. I know it’s not much, but I wanted to share it with you.”

My heart swells with joy. He took me to the one place that meant something to him. Suddenly the field didn’t feel like a strange place anymore. I lie on my back with my legs folded and look up.

It’s a clear night and the sky is bright with stars. The view is more amazing than I would have imagined. I reach for Cody’s hand and he folds mine into his. We scoot closer to each other and soak up the peaceful Moment.

I don’t even care that there is a security detail somewhere nearby. This Moment is perfect. It becomes even better when Cody shifts to his side. He brings his mouth down to mine and entices me into an earth shattering kiss.

I could stay here all night like this. Being with Cody is truly special. He has such a big heart and I’m so happy I found him. I don’t know how I could have missed him up until this point. Maybe it was just fate because the time wasn’t right. I guess we’ll never know.

Finally, after being locked in a passionate embrace, Cody sits up and the Moment cracks a bit. It shatters altogether when I see our security detail sitting on the hood of their car, just behind Cody’s truck.

“I guess this means we have to leave.”

“I think so, princess. It’s getting late anyways. I’m sure your parents are going to worry about you if you don’t come home soon.”

“Fine, but we’re coming back here one day soon.”

“You can count on it. Now let’s fold up this blanket and head back to the truck.”

I grumble a bit at our Moment being over as I slide my flip flops back on. Cody folds up the blanket and we walk, hand in hand, back to the truck.

Our security detail has gotten back in their car and pulled to the end of the gravel drive. I’m glad for a little privacy. This time, when Cody lifts me up into the truck, he makes no show of behaving.

He kisses me until I’m breathless. Stars dance in my vision and I’m pretty sure I’ve never felt anything like this before. Everything just feels so different with Cody. He is definitely like a drug to me. The more of him I have, the more I want.

I feel his fingers dancing at the hem of my shirt, pleasure racking me as they brush across my flesh. I let out a strangled sound and throw my head back. I feel my fangs descending and know his must be too. I turn my neck and revel in the points of his fangs piercing my skin. Euphoria settles in as he drinks. Tingling has flooded my entire body and a fire has ignited from within.

Once he finishes, I make haste kissing my way from his mouth down to the spot just below his ear. It’s such a strangely erotic spot for me. I bite down and feel his skin yield like butter. The taste of metal and honey fill my mouth as I take his blood. When I’m finished, I gently lick the wound and pull away from him.

I look at his glowing, amber eyes and know he enjoyed that as much as I did. My vision is crystal clear in this Moment and I know the violet halo in my pupils is flaring. Slowly, I breathe deeply and close my eyes to get ahold of myself. It’s getting harder to do as the days go forward.

With a groan, Cody pulls back and shuts my door. He comes around and soon we are back on the paved road. I don’t say anything and I don’t have to. He’s riding the blood high as much as I am.

As soon as we pull into my driveway, dread fills me. This night has been so perfect. I’m not ready to leave it and face the harsh reality waiting inside for me.

Cody lifts me out of the truck and we walk, with our hands entwined, to the porch. The light is on, but I don’t let that stop me from pulling myself into Cody’s arms. I kiss him to wash away the horrible thoughts and it works for a minute. When he breaks the kiss, the thoughts creep back in.

He is showing excellent restraint considering that I am like putty in his hands. I feel like a slave to his every whim. He holds so much power over me.

“Goodnight, princess. I love you.”

“Goodnight, Cody. I love you too.”

I watch him turn away and get back in his truck. As soon as he vanishes, I take a Moment to compose myself before I step inside and back into my nightmare.

I set my alarm last night for seven thirty, but I still spend thirty minutes banging snooze on my alarm. By the time I actually get up, I only have a half hour until Cody gets here. Fluttery butterflies fill my stomach, threatening to burst free. I have to tell Cody. My nerves are completely frayed at this point.

After a hot, calming shower, I throw my hair up in a bun. I don’t have time to dry it so that will have to do. I know I’m seeing Cody, but I decide to forgo the makeup. I don’t want it all over from the crying I know will happen tonight.

I’m not actually sure what to expect. I try to dress as comfortably as possible. After choosing my favorite pair of jeans, I put on a magenta, scoop neck tee. I go for plain, black flip flops and take one last look in the mirror.

With only a few minutes to spare, I rush downstairs just in time to hear the doorbell ring. I know it’s Cody. I feel him nearby. As soon as I reach the door, I dismiss Finn and open the door wide. I’ve never been so happy to see anyone in my life.

I throw myself into Cody’s arms and the tears begin to fall. He grips me tighter and whispers, “shush,” in a soft tone to get me to calm down. Little does he know, there’s no way to calm me down from the coming discussion. I’m living in my own personal hell and dragging him into it with me.

When I finally pull away, he wipes at my tears with his thumbs and kisses me gently. He kisses me as if I’m glass and he’s afraid to break me. I’m shattering anyways. Thankfully, my Mom walks in and sees what a mess I have become. She takes charge.

“Cody, why don’t you join us in the sitting room and have a spot of blood cocktail to drink? Callie just got down here and hasn’t had hers yet.”

“Sure, that sounds great,” he replies.

My Mom manages to pull me into the sitting room with Cody trailing behind. I curl up at one end of the couch and Cody sits next to me. He puts his arm around me and sorrow floods me. This could be the last time he holds me. He might never forgive me.

Mom already called the maid and she hurries in with a carafe of blood. She pours us all a cup and I down mine in two gulps. I’m going to need the blood high if I want to get this out without a complete meltdown.

“Where’s Dad?” I ask in between sniffles.

“He’s indisposed at the Moment and will join us in a little while. In the meantime, let’s get down to business Callie. This is your story, so I expect you to tell Cody. I’ll help when I can.”

I turn away from Cody as I begin my story. I am afraid I won’t get through this if I see the disappointment on his face. I tell him everything in a rush. First, I tell him about my outing with Jane, wincing at the sting of jealousy I feel through the bond.

Then I tell him about the next day and how Chase remembered. I talk about the mind wipes not working and how he is here. I tell him about the council’s arrival tonight and then I grow quiet. I don’t know what else to say and I am afraid of his reaction.

He is silent for a minute and I know it’s over. Despair washes over me and the tears fall faster now. Cody untangles himself from me and finally speaks.

“I just need a little bit of air to take all this in. I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

Cody turns and walks out of the sitting room. I hear the front door shut and I can no longer control myself. I have a full blown panic attack. I feel like the walls are closing in around me and prickles of darkness begin to flood my vision. I sob harder until I can barely breathe.

Soon, my vision is gone and I am trying to force myself out of the walls I feel closing in on me. I can’t hear anything but the sounds of my own hysterical crying.

I don’t know how long this goes on. It must have been a while because I am brought back to reality by Cody. He is on the floor, kneeling in front of me, with his hands framing my face. Slowly, my vision clears and I see the concern on his face.

“You don’t have to pretend. I know you must be disgusted with me. I won’t hold it against you if you want to back out now.”

Cody shakes his head and frowns. “No, Callie. That’s not it at all. This isn’t your fault. Yes, I’m jealous as hell, but I don’t love you any less. That’s just not possible. I will always have forgiveness for you.”

“How can you forgive me? I’ve brought shame to my family and yours by association. I should have told you before we mated. It was so selfish of me.”

“Even if you had told me, I still would have mated with you, Callie Andell. This doesn’t change anything. In fact, the only reason I went outside was to call my parents. They’re on their way over now. We’ll all figure this out together. I’ll stand by your side until this is over. I promise you things will work out.”

“I love you,” I manage to whisper.

“I love you too,” he says as he joins me on the couch, his arms wrapped around me.

“I’ll go get some more blood for all of us and check on Milo. He should be joining us soon.”

My Mom leaves the room and shuts the door. Cody pulls me to him and rains kisses down on me. He kisses my forehead, my cheeks, my closed eyes, my nose, my jaw and finally my lips. I return the kiss with a needy desire.

His kiss, lets me know he still loves me. A tiny bit of relief floods me, but it still doesn’t blow the remaining embers of shame out. When he pulls away, he uses his thumbs to wipe my tears away. Then we just sit there, with me, curled up in his lap.

The silence is broken after just a few minutes by the doorbell. It must be his parents. Finn answers it and guides them into the sitting room. I’m too scared and ashamed to look at them. I bury my face in Cody’s muscular chest. My Mom hurries in behind them and thanks them for coming.

Cody must not have told them much, because my Mom spends a few minutes explaining the situation to them. I don’t look up until she’s finished. When I do, I’m shocked at what I find.

Ginger has tears in her eyes and she looks at me with such sympathy. She doesn’t look angry at all. His Dad just looks resigned, but not mad.

Still, my emotions are on overdrive. When I look at them, I blurt out, “I’m so sorry,” before burying my face in Cody’s chest once again.

The door swings open and I feel Cody stiffen next to me. I feel anger and jealousy through our bond. It’s then that I realize who has joined the party. Chase.

I look up and he is staring at me and Cody. The only thing that registers is the cool look he gives Cody. That makes me angry. How does he have the right? One night together and he thinks he owns me. My anger flares and I glare at Chase. He just winks at me. He winks at me! Is he insane?

Cody’s own anger is in full force and I can feel his fists ball up around me. Chase has no right to antagonize my mate. If looks could kill, Chase would be dead. I’m giving him the death stare and don’t stop until my Dad follows, shutting the door behind himself.

“Nick, Ginger, thank you for coming. As you can see, we have quite a situation on our hands,” he says.

Nick nods. “I’ve never heard of this happening before. Do you mind if Ginger and I try to do it? Maybe another family might have a different influence.”

My Dad looks relieved that they aren’t more upset. “Absolutely, that would be kind of you. We’re at a loss here.”

“Wait, are you going to try to do that weird voodoo stuff on me again?” Chase asks.

“It’s a memory wipe and yes we are. It could be the only way you walk out of here alive,” my Dad tells him.

“I could just walk out the front door, you know. I should just leave and forget all this asinine bullshit. Callie obviously doesn’t want me here. You can’t stop me.”

“You’re right, I don’t want you here. You are playing with my life and you don’t even care. This is not some joke. This is as serious as it gets. Go ahead and try to walk out of here. You will be dead before you even make it to the gates. Humans die inside these boundaries. You aren’t allowed to be here,” I spit out in a rush.

“Callie, watch your tone,” Mom reprimands.

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Fine, whatever, let’s just get this done so you can see this crap doesn’t work on me.”

We all wait in silence as they try the memory wipe on him. When they are finished, I anxiously look on in suspense. Then Chase looks at me and winks. He winks at me again! Not only did the memory wipe not work, but now Cody has jumped up and is on top of Chase.

I yell for him to stop, but neither one does. They are wrestling around like a pair of idiots. Finally, after Cody gets a good punch in, my Dad pulls him off Chase. Chase just sits there on the floor, smiling. I have a sudden urge myself, to have my turn pummeling him. I rein in my temper and turn my attention to Cody.

Cody is fuming mad. I think steam is going to come out of his ears. He is flexing his hands into fists and the look on his face is murderous. I’ve never seen this side of him. It’s a little sexy, but now’s not the time to be thinking things like this. I have to calm him down, pronto.

“Cody, baby, are you okay?” I ask tentatively.

He gives me a stiff nod and I see his hands starting to relax slightly. I turn his head until his glowing hazel eyes rest on mine. I gently move in and kiss his lips. He melts at my touch and wraps his arms around me. I don’t stop the kiss from getting more intense. I’m just happy he’s okay and that there isn’t a dead Chase on our hands.

Someone clears their throat and I know we need to stop. I end the kiss and slowly pull myself away from Cody, as if any sudden motions will wind him back up. Once we are composed, my Dad speaks.

“It’s clear we have a serious problem. I’m not sure why he’s immune, but he is. The only thing that will save Callie is that they won’t take a true mate away. It’s like a death sentence for Cody. The real problem is Chase himself. I’m not sure what the council will do.”

“I called the council earlier tonight and told them we had a situation. They are assembling and should be here anytime,” Mom adds.

“Whatever happens, I can’t be apart from Callie. I will go with her if they take her. We already started the mating bond, so they can’t deny us,” Cody says.

“I understand, son. We will all stand by Callie no matter what the outcome is. She is like a daughter now and we take care of family.”

“Does Lana know something is wrong?” I ask.

“No, but we should call her over. She is going to want to be a part of this. I know her and she’ll never forgive us if we leave her out. She adores you,” Ginger says.

Ginger calls Lana and we wait silently until she arrives. We sip on the blood cocktail Mom has poured, in the meantime. I need my strength so I drink all I can. Finn lets her in the sitting room and she sees all the solemn looks on our faces. Then she sees Chase.

“Holy hot sauce, who is that?”

“Hi, I’m Chase. Who are you, gorgeous?”

Cody lunges for him again, but I’m prepared this time. I hold him back as best as I can. At seeing her brother’s’ reaction, Lana’s eyes widen.

“Okay, what’s going on here? Will somebody tell me why there is a hottie in the room and my brother is about to blow a gasket? And,why does Callie look like she’s been crying?”

“Sit down, it’s a long story,” I tell her.

The story is easier to tell the second time. Lana is quiet through the whole story. When I finish, Lana looks as if she is going to respond, but she doesn’t get the chance to. The doorbell rings and I know it’s the council standing on the other side.

The council is much like a jury. Currently, there are twelve seats on the council. My family has one seat. Actually, all royal families have a seat on the council. At least right now, I have two ruling families on my side. I can only pray they are enough to convince the others to plead in my favor.

The ruler is like the judge. Right now, Alexander Hermatige is our ruler. We will explain our situation to the council and they compile a case to send to Alexander. He, more than likely, will request our presence to announce the outcome. What he says is final.

It’s the finality of the situation that scares me. Once he has decided on a ruling, there is no changing the outcome. He literally holds my life in his hands and, at this point, Cody’s and Chase’s as well. While I may want to strangle Chase, I don’t wish death on him for this.

Finn gets the door and I can hear the group pouring into the foyer. I realize this room is getting smaller and smaller, the more people that enter. I’m starting to feel claustrophobic. It doesn’t help when Finn announces the remainder of the council’s arrival.

They all file in, one at a time. With twelve seats on the council, there are actually twelve couples. With four already in the room, twenty more people file in. There is only standing room left. I’m frozen in fear and curl into Cody’s arms.

To most vampires, the council is large and intimidating. I’m one of them. I cower in my spot on the couch. I can’t watch their reaction to Chase in the room. I even feel Lana scooting in closer to us.

First, there is a gasp. Then, all of a sudden, everyone is talking over each other until the room fills with utter chaos. When I do look up, I see my Dad tugging on Chase’s arm and placing a finger over his mouth to motion that he should stay quiet. Chase nods indifferently.

I know Cody can feel my fear, but I feel his unease through the bond. He’s afraid of what might happen. That doesn’t exactly make me feel warm and fuzzy. Finally, my Dad has had enough.

“Silence everybody! There is a serious matter at hand and I want to explain once instead of multiple times.”

Everyone quiets and looks his way. “It appears this human is an anomaly. Jane and Callie went hunting on Friday and this human, Chase, was Callie’s target donor. She did everything right, and wiped his memory when she was done.”

He gave me a grave smile and turned back to the council. “The next day, he ran into my wife and daughter outside of the nail salon with all his memories intact. Unsure what to do, we brought him here for fear of our secret getting out.”

Bless her heart, Ginger stands up and speaks for me.

“The memory wipe didn’t work and the Andell’s, as well as us, have tried since. He seems to be immune. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Of course, Mr. Monte is the one to speak up first. He has never liked me. I know after the blood ball escapade with Hannah that his opinion of me has yet to change.

“So you mean to tell me it was Callie whom jeopardized our existence? It was Callie whom brought in a human she knew would more than likely die at our hands.”

“Actually, I brought him here. I couldn’t risk letting him loose in the city until we could wipe his memories. As of right now, that has yet to happen,” Mom says.

I chance a look at the Lucia’s and get nothing but a frosty look in return. I wonder if their feelings have to do with the fact that I didn’t choose Thayer. My odds here are not looking good.

I’m practically all the way in Cody’s lap now and he softly kisses my forehead. Just his touch goes a long way to stave off a panic attack. I still feel fear and uncertainty through our bond. It chills me to the bone.

“Chase, Cody, Callie and Lana, could you all please step out and wait in the living room? We need to discuss this as a council. We will call for you when we are finished.  Try not to kill each other.” Nick says that last comment pointedly to Chase and Cody.

We all nod silently and slip out of the room. I don’t realize I’m holding my breath until we step out and it exits in a whoosh.

Once we’re in the living room, Cody sits at the end of the couch and holds his arms out for me. I’m still rattled by everything and climb into his lap. I need his comfort and soothing touch. It seems the closer we are getting to our official mating, the more I need him near me.

Chase sits in a chair, not looking our way.  He’s completely silent and my focus quickly drifts away from him.

Lana sits cross-legged at the other end of the couch. She is eyeing us curiously, with a look between jealousy and confusion.

“I hope I find a mate at the blood ball next year. Being around you two is ridiculously uncomfortable, you’re so into each other. Don’t get me wrong, it’s sweet. I just can’t wait until you can get a room and stop mauling each other in public.”

“Pshh, we don’t maul each other,” I say with a cheery tone in my voice that I don’t actually feel.

Chase snorts and I glare at him.

“Um hmm, that is something we will agree to disagree on. So, do you want to tell me what you think is going to happen from this little mishap?” Lana says, trying to pretend Chase isn’t even in the room.

“I’m terrified to find out. My biggest fear is that they are going to take Callie away from me. I don’t think I can survive that. She’s my true mate and my life is tied to hers now. We’ve already starting the mating so there isn’t any turning back, not that I would even want to,” Cody tells her.

“I wonder what will happen to the hottie over there. I can see why you picked him, Callie. He’s super yummy,” she says like a typical seventeen-year-old girl would.

Chase just flashes a wicked grin but remains quiet.

I feel Cody tense and jealousy spikes through the bond. I turn my head and lean into him. Our lips meet in a soft and gentle kiss that lets him know he is my choice every time.

The jealousy recedes and is replaced with overwhelming love. I actually smile at this one bright spot in a cloud of darkness.

“I feel responsible because I knew something was different about him. I didn’t know if it was attraction or something else. It was intriguing and I couldn’t help myself. If only I had steered clear the minute I realized he was different.”

“You can’t blame yourself, Callie. I wouldn’t have been able to resist either. That could just have easily been me. I’m definitely going to be more careful when hunting now. You have officially become the poster child for hunting gone wrong.”

Cody remains stoic and I know his brain is whirling at a hundred miles an hour. I can feel his jumbled thoughts and even catch snippets of them. Mind reading doesn’t happen with mates often. The prospect of having it with Cody overshadows my fears temporarily. I light up and Cody raises an eyebrow in suspicion.

I don’t want Lana to know so I bring my lips to his ear and let out a slow, breathy giggle, tickling him. He sucks in a breath and I know that I’m getting him worked up.

Then I whisper in his ear. “What was that about mating in a jail cell? You don’t really think that will happen do you?”

He turns to respond, frowning at my question. Then he gets it. His eyes widen and he smiles. He in turn, nibbles on my earlobe before saying anything. I inhale sharply at the extremely intimate gesture and struggle not to alert Lana.

I feel the evidence of his excitement and the thoughts I’m catching are definitely not pure. I close my eyes and smile at the images they bring to mind. Then he whispers in my own ear.

“Careful, princess, or you might see something less than pure. I’m already having trouble keeping my hands off you.”

“Is that a promise?” I say out loud in a low, seductive voice.

“Mm hmm, I believe it is.”

“Oh, jeez, get a room. I don’t want to witness this. Can we please focus?” Lana states, effectively breaking up our hushed conversation.

Then she continues. “What do you think will happen to Chase? Do you think they will execute him? I hope they turn him. He can be my vampire any day.”

Cody shakes his head. “I don’t know, but I don’t care as long as it doesn’t affect Callie and me. I have a feeling it won’t be that simple though. They need someone to blame.”

Reality comes crashing back and tears start to slip down my cheeks. I can’t seem to stop them. What if I lose Cody? I couldn’t stand to live without him. He is my reason for living now. I feel like this could turn into a Romeo and Juliet scenario.

Cody studies me for a minute before he says anything. He wipes at my tears with the pads of his thumbs. “I won’t let them take you away from me. There will be no Romeo and Juliet happening with us.”

My tears are still spilling, but my eyes meet his and I smile. He has read my mind. This is really happening. I can’t believe that as the bonding strengthens, he and I will grow more adept at reading each other’s thoughts.

I throw my arms around him and pull my face forward just enough to give him a quick, chaste kiss. I don’t care that Lana is watching. This is a truly exciting discovery, one that I don’t want to share. It seems too private.

“I agree, let’s just keep things on the down low,” he replies in a hushed tone so Lana won’t hear what he says.

“Okay, that is really enough. It’s bad enough I am stuck here as the fourth wheel, but the whispering and kissing are making me uncomfortable. I know it’s not helping Chase. I love you both, but this situation is serious. What can I do to help?”

“I don’t know yet, sis. I promise that if we need something, I’m going to cash in on that offer though. We don’t know what’s ahead of us yet. We are as in the dark as you are. All I know is that they have been in there a long time. I’m starting to worry.”

As if hearing our thoughts, Finn enters the room. “The council is ready for you now. Follow me, please.”

This is it. Their case has been made and will be brought to Alexander. My heart rate speeds up and my nervousness increases two fold. I’m trying not to panic again, but I don’t make myself any promises. At least Cody has my hand in his and is stroking it with his thumb.

None of that matters when we reach the door to the sitting room and Finn opens it. All the talking ceases and everyone’s expressions grow somber. This is so not a good sign. I just stand there and wait for what will happen next.

I peer over at Mom and Dad first. There is a look of sorrow on their faces. Not good. Then my eyes seek out Cody’s parents. They are frowning and can’t even look our way. In a last ditch effort, I switch my vision to Chase.

Chase is being forcibly handled until his hands are bound behind his back. I feel as though I might cry. This whole thing is my fault. I can’t believe this is happening. Before anyone has a chance to tell me the verdict, tiny, black dots dance in my vision.

I close my eyes, trying to calm down, but it doesn’t help. Instead, I open my eyes and my vision has turned completely black. My breathing is rapid and it feels like my heart is going to jump out of my chest.

Suddenly the edges of reality fray and I begin to lose my grip on reality. I crumple like a sack of potatoes. I just hope Cody catches me in time, is the last thought I have.

I’m not sure how long I was out, but when I come to, I’m wrapped in Cody’s arms. Maybe it was all a dream. I open my eyes and scan the room. Nope, I’m still inside my nightmare.

“Callie, it’s good to see you awake again. You gave us quite a scare,” Ginger says sincerely.

“How long was I out for?”

“Almost an hour, baby,” Cody responds.

I break away from him and sit up. I lost a whole hour, a whole chunk of time. At least Cody is here.

“I’m sorry we can’t be more delicate about this, but it’s getting late and we need to get going soon,” Mr. Shangon tells me.

Dread fills me up at the words Jane’s Dad says. He continues and I’m almost afraid to listen, to hear them judge me and my mistake.

“This is an unprecedented situation you have put us in. We have to decide Chase’s options for Alexander to approve. We also have to figure out what to do with you. There will be some sort of repercussion for this even if it was an accident.”

Chase stands rigid and my Mom comes over to me. “Honey, they have to take you in until the verdict is reached. The trial will be held on Friday. That is the soonest we can fit it in. I know this puts a crimp in your bonding, but it can’t be helped.”

“I’m going with her then. I can’t leave her and you can’t ask me to. I’m her true mate.” Cody states.

“Fine, but you must submit to blood tests to prove it and you can’t stay in the same cell as her. The best we can do is get you adjoining cells so you can hold hands and talk. You can’t be alone together until the mating ceremony. If there is a mating ceremony,” Mrs. Lucia smirks as she says it.

Hate floods my senses and I can hear Cody cussing her out internally. I have to struggle to keep my composure.

“I’ll do whatever it takes. Oh, and there WILL be a mating ceremony. You can’t throw my life away with hers. It’s not how our laws work and you know it,” he replies, challenging anyone to say different.

His words are met with silence and it is a small victory for us. “I’ll go willingly, just don’t tie me up please. Am I allowed to bring anything with me?” I ask.

“No, Callie, we will provide clothing and blood for you. Unfortunately, your blood will not be your usual cocktail. We can’t risk that secret getting out either. It will also weaken you so that you can’t fight your way out of Alexander’s final decision,” Winter’s Mom explains.

I nod and the council begins to file out of the room. When all that is left is my family and the Gregoria’s, I run and hug my Dad. He hugs me back tightly. “Don’t worry, baby girl. We’ll figure this out. I have a few tricks up my sleeves.”

After pulling away, I smile and then wrap my arms around Mom. I can feel tears as evidence that she is crying. It seems she’s the one that needs the encouragement.

“It’ll be okay Mom. We’ll get through this.”

Before I can say anything else, I notice Winter’s Dad standing in the doorway impatiently. Cody gently pulls at my hand and I follow him out the door. The council closes in on us and we leave the house en masse.

I sit next to Cody on our way out of my house. There is a trail of cars as the whole council follows to the castle. They will go over our case and see to our accommodations. All members must be there when they present a case to Alexander.

I’m nervous and try to ease it by playing with Cody’s hair. It’s so sexy on him. I love the way it curls up at the edges, just above his ears. It is such a gorgeous tint of sunny blonde. I still don’t know how I managed not to notice him before. He’s hot as well as kind, loving and funny.

He hears my thoughts and kisses my forehead. He gives me a wink and I grin. Then I abruptly turn my grin into a neutral line. This isn’t the time for this. I have to be more careful until we are alone again.

Chase is in another car, thank goodness. I don’t think I could deal with him and Cody in the same car. They need to stay separated, for Chase’s safety.

The only thing keeping me from being a shell of a vampire right now is Cody. When we pull up to the castle, the car slows to a stop at the front gate and waits for the drawbridge to drop.

Finally, we make our way across the steel reinforced, wooden bridge and park in the circle drive out front. The driver opens the door for us and we step out into the night once more. The night that seemed breezy and perfect earlier now feels stale.

The large doors open and we’re ushered inside. The doors shut and it sounds more like a slam as it echoes off the cavernous foyer. I watch behind us as Chase is brought in, still tied up, and my heart sinks. He doesn’t deserve this. I can tell by the murderous look on his face that he doesn’t take this situation lightly anymore.

I shake it off and follow the council into the royal chambers. Three chairs have been set out in front of the dais. We are urged forward and take our seats in the spotlight. All around us, the council members sit in soft, cushioned chairs made of gold with blue fabric while we sit in plain, metal, folding chairs. Nice.

Contrary to popular belief, vampires don’t turn their homes into dark lairs. Sure, it is dark in our home, but we don’t really subscribe to the red and black color scheme. The castle is enriched with vivid blues and our house is laced with yellows and the shades of the sunrise.

I can’t remember the last time I was this nervous. I want to throw up. I’m being punished for something I couldn’t have prevented. I was in the wrong place at the wrong time and now I will pay for it.

Soon, the room falls silent and we wait for Alexander to enter. I’m sitting in the middle and Cody sits to my left. I hold his hand tightly, trying to smooth my frayed nerves. He is the only thing keeping me grounded in this massive room.

Alexander walks in and takes his seat at the dais. He looks regal as ever. His ebony hair is long and tied back. He’s tall, at least a foot and a half taller than I am. I almost stop breathing when he pins his catlike green eyes on me. They are the color of cut emeralds and they’re unforgiving. I’ve always been intimidated by him, related or not.

“Callie, I understand you are the reason for this session to be called tonight.”

“Yes, sir,” I say meekly.

A member of the council, Alicia’s Dad steps up to the dais and hands Alexander a file. He takes his gaze from me and studies the file before him. It takes him several minutes to digest the information. Then the real questioning starts. I drop Cody’s hand and fold both of my hands in my lap. I’m uncomfortable under his eyes, judging me.

No one speaks unless spoken to. I wait a beat to begin answering as the onslaught of questions are hurled at me.

“Is it true, you felt something different about this human, Chase?” he asks me.

“I didn’t know if it was just a feeling or what, but yes,” I admit.

“Did you follow protocol and wipe his memories, even though it is stated that you didn’t want to?”

Anger burns in my belly and works its way up. My own parents have betrayed me to the council. I know that they had to tell them, but the knowledge still stings.

“Sir, I followed every protocol and did wipe his memories. He was in a daze when I walked out the door Friday night.”

Alexander looks like he is scanning the file once again before he resumes the questioning.

“Did you run into Chase on purpose the next night or was it accidental?

It says that he remembered everything. How did you find this out?”

I wait until I think he is finished before answering. My heart rate has taken a hike and I’m even more nervous, if that’s possible.

“Running into him was purely accidental. My Mom was the one who arranged our outing. I only knew he remembered me because he called me Callie and thanked me for a wonderful night. It wasn’t until we took him home to question him that we found out he remembered everything.”

I want to take my eyes off Alexander and look at Cody. I hope that too much detail isn’t divulged here. I don’t want to hurt him more than I already have when I glossed over this part. I can’t look though. Alexander is an intimidating presence and demands my attention.

“Let’s fast forward to the blood ball. It says here that you met your true mate there. Is Cody Gregoria your true mate?”

“Cody Gregoria is my true mate. We began the bonding process that night. I can’t wait to be mated with him.”

“How did you find out he was your true mate? Did you mate because of the situation with Chase?”

My breathing catches as the questions grow harder. I didn’t mate because of Chase. It was a subjective matter and would be taken into advisement, but wasn’t the only answer possible.

“Sir, we did the blood bonding after our feelings became apparent. My mating with Cody had nothing to do with Chase. I bonded with him of my own volition.”

My eyes dart to Cody’s for the briefest of seconds and his meet mine. That small gesture is enough to comfort me through the rest of the questioning.

“Performing the blood bonding is risky. If you hadn’t been true mates, the ramifications of making a formal bond based on a blood lust are serious. You would have mated for lust instead of love.”

“I never even thought of the risk. It was Cody. I couldn’t even consider not bonding with him. Something deep inside me took charge and I will be forever grateful. Cody is my one true mate and I am blessed to have found him.”

Alexander looks thoughtful for just a minute and then refocuses on the file.

“It seems that a number of adults have also tried the memory wipe on Chase with no success. I wonder what is so special about him.”

He doesn’t look at me, so I don’t answer him. I’m not sure exactly what it is he’s looking for. My eyes nearly bulge out of my head when I hear Chase speak up. Apparently the council was not too clear on the rules with him.

“I’m right here. I hate when people talk about me like I’m not here. Callie did try that memory wipe thingy and so did several other people. It just doesn’t work on me. I don’t know why. I just know that Callie is a vampire and I’m not.”

Alexander looks irritated, but also intrigued. His eyes glitter as he turns all of his focus on Chase. I know this is important and that this could make or break me.

“So, Chase, did you know what Callie was when you met at the bar that night?”

“I felt something different about her, but no, I didn’t know she was a vampire. I didn’t know that part until she sunk her teeth into my neck. That was an experience.”

I see Cody stiffen out of the corner of my eye and know he read what happened in my mind. Oops. I send thoughts of me kissing him and how I feel about him, hoping they speak the truth.

Even members of the council gasp at his comment. Taking blood can be as impersonal as feeding off a homeless person in an alley. As a teenager, I always went the other route. I was single and liked hot guys. I had no idea it could ever come back and bite me in the ass like this.

Luckily, Alexander has moved on and is asking other questions.

“Chase, are you close to your parents?”

Chase frowns and pauses before answering. “My Mom died six months ago from cancer and my Dad took off before he even knew about me.”

Alexander looks thoughtful and is filtering through the file once more. Then he stands and I know he is getting ready to arrange our judgments. The council’s job is to do whatever Alexander asks and has everything prepared for our final trial on Friday. That’s our last chance to prove my innocence and save Chase.

“I have made my decision. There are too many variables at play here. First, I want Cody and Callie blood tested to prove they are true mates. Then I want Chase blood tested as well. I have a few ideas that I want to rule out. The council will also gather a complete work up of Chase and his history. We need to assess his situation in the human community.”

He looks up and pauses before continuing. “Not memory wiping a human is treason and comes with a death sentence. However, if you really are true mates, that will not be possible. I’ll have to come up with an alternate punishment for you, Callie. As for Chase, his life hinges on several factors. Chase, you will either be changed into a vampire or meet your death. All this will be decided at the final trial on Friday. Thank you all for coming.”

Alexander stands, takes his file and exits the room the way he came. My eyes are wide with worry. I may not be handed a death sentence, but I’m not sure what will happen instead. I can only hope that Cody and I will get through it together and be allowed to mate on Saturday. I feel bad for Chase and wish I hadn’t dragged him into this. It can’t be helped now. All we can do is hope for the best.

I think about Jane and what she would have said if I had just told her. Now she’s going to be upset for missing out on all the drama. She has to forgive me. Maybe I can get her to visit me before Friday. Lana must want to see her brother as well. Hopefully they can come together.

The council stands in silence. The guards appear and make their way towards us. I don’t want to admit I’m scared, but I am. They don’t handcuff or tie us up since we agree to go willingly. The first guard takes Cody. I feel terrible that he has to endure my punishment. He is a good man and I love him.

My first reaction is to go to him and have him wrap me in his arms. I know I can’t do that in the company of the guards. It’s really hard to restrain myself. I need that comfort and only he can provide me with it. At least he senses or hears this and sends love and affection through the bond.

The next guard grabs me and drags a reluctant Chase behind me. Chase is no longer an enigma to me. I don’t find his clear, blue eyes intriguing and I certainly don’t find his messy brown hair sexy. How could I have gone so wrong?

We are guided into a staircase and are taken down three flights of stairs. This is deep in the bowels of the castle. It’s the perfect place to keep prisoners with no chance of escaping. Despair floods me and I know I need to get my emotions under control. It’s not fair to broadcast my feelings into Cody.

When we finally reach the bottom of the stairwell, a light is switched on. There is a row of large, metal, jail cells. My heart sinks. I’ve never been down here before and now I know why. It’s dreary. The first guard veers to the second empty cell and deposits Cody in it.

The first empty cell next to Cody’s is mine and I’m sealed inside in a matter of seconds. Chase gets deposited into a cell across from me. Then the guards turn to go, leaving us alone in the underground hallway of barred rooms.

We aren’t in a dungeon exactly. Yes, there are bars all around us. The floor is tiled strangely enough and there is a single bed up against the back wall that resembles more of a cot. In the back of the small cell, there is a small bathroom with an actual door on it. True, it only contains a rudimentary shower, toilet and sink, but it’s still a private bathroom. Thank goodness for small favors.

The first thing I do after I get my bearings is pull the bed over to the bars next to Cody’s. I need his closeness. The bond is getting stronger and it’s getting harder to be away from him. I crave his touch. I long for the feel of his lips on mine. Licking my lips with my tongue, I refocus on getting my bed where I want it.

I look up and Cody winks at me. Just that simple gesture calms me a little. He also is moving his bed towards mine. I push mine as far as it will go and sit down. I am still in shock over everything that has happened.

I’m preparing to turn around and talk to Cody when Chase speaks up. I shift on the bed to face him.

“So, Callie, if you are to mate for life with this guy, why did you seduce me the other night?”

Chase puts extra emphasis on seduce and I grit my teeth. My eyes narrow as I prepare my response. I know he is just trying to get under Cody’s skin.

“I wasn’t mated then. Besides, I needed blood. We didn’t even do anything.”

I know it is kind of a lie, but I will not give him the benefit of seeing just how shaken up I am by the proximity of him and Cody to me.

“I have to disagree. I took you home, we made out and as I recall, you straddled me in that little, purple dress of yours. It was far from innocent.”

I’m seething now. How dare him. I’m about to question his motives when I realize that he’s just jealous of Cody. That thought makes me smirk. It serves him right for barging back into my life and ruining things.

“You’re just jealous that Cody has me and you don’t,” I say, pleased with myself for figuring it out.

“I have to admit, I am jealous. That still doesn’t change how we kissed as if the world was on fire or how you felt on my lap, pressed up against me.”

I glance over at Cody and see his jaw clamped shut. He is grinding his teeth and trying really hard to keep his anger at bay. I’m actually a little worried that some of it is anger at me. I would never hurt Cody on purpose. Chase is putting me through the worst kind of hell.

“Cut it out, Chase. I think we’ve heard enough for tonight. It’s late and I’m exhausted.”

“Fine, but this isn’t over.”

I finally turn my full attention to Cody. He is still seething at my exchange with Chase. The thought of him directing any of that anger at me makes me want to cry. I love him so much; I don’t know how I lived without him for so long.

“Come here, princess,” Cody says. He scoots on his bed towards the bars and reaches out a hand for me.

Tears spill and I move as close to the bars as I can get. Soon, we are face to face and his anger softens. He can see the anguish in my expression.

“It’s okay. You didn’t know then. I’m not mad at you. None of this is your fault.” He wipes the tears away from my cheeks with his thumbs and I sigh.

“I just love you so much. I can’t bear to think of anyone getting between us. This bond of ours grows stronger every minute. I want this all to go away.”

“It will. I promise everything will work out for the best. As long as you’re in my life, there’s nothing they can do to make things any less than perfect.”

“I keep picturing us together in that condo your parents gave us. In my mind, we’re so happy there,” I admit.

Cody clasps my hands and pulls me towards the bars as close as he can get me. He leans in and presses a soft kiss to my lips. When he breaks away, I have calmed down a bit and the tears have stopped.

“Get some rest, Callie. Things will look better in the morning.”

I nod at him and sink down on my stiff bed. I face Cody and he is the last thing I see before I drift off to sleep.

I must have slept through the night because I peer into Cody’s cell to see him already awake and smiling at me. I smile back and just lay there taking in my perfect mate.

Cody’s blonde hair is disheveled and I want to put my fingers through it as I pull him in for a deep, passionate kiss. I imagine his hazel eyes lit up like molten amber as he peers through my glowing, violet eyes.

I think about how enticing a real blood exchange sounds right now. I can remember the taste of his sweet blood on my tongue and I crave more. My body tingles from my head to my toes and I begin to think of other things we could do with each other.

Cody laughs and I’m brought out of my reverie. “You are going to get us both in trouble princess. I’m having a hard enough time as it is and then you go thinking things like that. It’s just cruel,” he sulks.

I feel my cheeks heat up at his response. I’ve been caught. It’s strange having someone in my head like this. A part of me feels very comforted by his presence there. It’s intimate in a way that most people never experience.

“I’m not sure how I got so lucky, but you’re everything I’ve ever wanted. I will spend the rest of our existence showing you just how much I love you,” he tells me.

Suddenly, we hear an exaggerated groan coming from the other cell.

“Good God, get a room. You two are sickening. I think I got a cavity just listening to that.”

Great. Chase is awake. “This is a private conversation so butt out, human.”

Chase just laughs at me. “I am a human, but I’m a sexy human and you know it. That’s why you picked me that night. You may not admit you want me, but I know it. That’s enough for me. You can deny it all you want. That doesn’t make it any less true.”

“Argh, I want to kill you! You are nothing but a pervert that can’t let well enough alone. We wouldn’t be in this mess if you had just forgotten about me like a normal human!”

“Well, after your performance, it was incredibly hard to forget.”

I’m fuming now. If I let him bait me any longer, I’m going to explode. I get up from my bed and slam the door to the bathroom. After taking a few calming breaths and using the facilities, I am rational enough to return to my cell.

When I return, a guard is standing in front of my cell.

“Here are some clean clothes and breakfast. You have visitors coming in an hour.”

Then he leaves, just like that. I look over to see Cody drinking down his breakfast/dinner and Chase eating some sort of slop that smells disgusting. I hurry up and down my blood in one swift chug. This is my least favorite kind of blood and I’m aware that I’m just drinking it for the nutritional value. Ugh, it’s gross.

I wonder who our visitors are. I hope Jane comes. Although, it could be our parents. Who knows who will show up to see us? After finishing my blood, I grab the clothes and return to the bathroom.

The shower is a mixture of alternating hot and cold. I hurry up and use the standard plain bar of soap and all-in-one shampoo. There is a tiny, white towel that I use to dry off with. It is small and scratchy. I hang it back up and go about getting dressed.

The clothes they left me are plain. I put on the bra and underwear before pulling up the light blue scrubs. The white tee is a simple cotton shirt and I pull it over my head.

There isn’t much I can do about my hair since I am sans hairbrush. I settle for running my fingers through it and letting it dry naturally. By the time I have finished and exited the bathroom, Cody and Chase are both just showered and dressed.

I immediately focus my attention on Cody. Good gravy he is sexy. With his hair all wet and wild, he looks like a Greek god. His muscles show clearly through the white tee shirt and the scrubs rest low on his hips.

I snap out of it and blush as I realize I have been standing there drooling over my mate. He just cracks a smile and winks at me.

I move over to sit cross-legged on my bed. Cody reaches through the bars and grasps my hand. I can feel the comfort in his touch. I let out a soft sigh and close my eyes for a minute. That minute is interrupted by Chase. Of course, he couldn’t just be quiet.

“Are you two lovebirds even interested in who the visitors are?”

“Why do you care? They’re coming to visit us, not you,” I spit, a little colder than I planned. What can I say? He brings out the worst in me.

“It doesn’t matter, they’re still entertainment. You two are getting old to watch. I need a change in scenery. I’m curious as to who will entertain us today, that’s all.”

“We’re not some soap opera. We’re vampires. Who says it will be entertaining? It’s probably just our parents or my best friend and his sister.”

Cody is silent like usual, listening to our verbal sparring. I feel the anger creep in through the bond and I lighten up. I ignore Chase and pull Cody through the bars to meet me halfway. We indulge in a tender kiss that is so delicious, I almost forget myself.

We are pulled back to reality all too soon though. A familiar voice fills the silence and I nearly jump out of my bed. It’s Jane.

“Girl, what on earth have you gotten into this time?”

I rush to the front of my cell and grin. Jane is here, everything will be okay. She always lightens my mood. I’m so excited to see her; I almost don’t notice Lana standing next to her.

“Jane! You will never believe the hell I’ve been going through since we last talked. Things aren’t looking so great.” Then I turn to Lana. “Thanks so much for being here for me and Cody.”

Lana smiles widely and I can tell she’s happy to see us. She waves at me and makes her way over to Cody’s cell. I return my focus to Jane.

“So, who is this grade A jerk that got you into this predicament? This whole thing is total B.S., Callie. Mom told me everything when I woke up.”

“The stupid human is over there. His name is Chase,” I say as I point over to him.

She looks Chase over and then frowns. “No wonder you got into this mess. He’s smoking hot. I would hunt him too. If you hadn’t scooped him up that night, I probably would have.”

“Nice to meet you, too. I’m Chase.”

He’s being his sarcastic self, as usual. Jane looks over and gives him her thousand watt, sexy smile before responding.

“Mm hmm…” she mumbles as she blatantly checks him out. She might as well be undressing him with her eyes, she’s so obvious.

I lightly push on her shoulder through the bars and she turns to me with an innocent look. “What? He’s hot. I can’t help but look. It’s not as if my love life is that great right now.”

“Didn’t you find any prospects at the blood ball? I know you were really looking forward to it.”

“No, Alice made her move. What’s worse, there weren’t any guys worthy of me there. I need a guy who is going to treat me like the royalty I am. So far, I haven’t had much luck. Excuse me for looking at a little eye candy.”

“I’m so sorry, Jane. I know you were hoping to find a mate there. Don’t worry; we’ve got all summer to find you one. That is, if I ever get out of this mess.”

“Yeah, about that, why is Cody locked up too? He didn’t do anything.”

“Our bond has already grown really strong. It’s torture to be apart from each other, so he volunteered to be close to me this way. I love him so much, Jane. I can’t believe how much.”

“You’re lucky. The whole true mate thing might just save your ass. They won’t risk a royal mating. They might force you into the breeding program though. You’re a good candidate and they need an heir.”

I hadn’t even thought of that. Holy smokes. They could actually force Cody and I into having a family right away. I’m not ready for that yet. I just want to be with Cody and start our life. I wouldn’t be destroyed over it, after all, he is my everything and our children would be too. The thought of the breeding program leaves me conflicted.

“I never even thought of that. I guess that’s better than what could happen to Chase. He might meet his death. Sucks to be him,” I say.

I know it’s my fault he’s here and I don’t really want him to die.  He’s just on my last nerve and I’ve now stooped to his level.  Great. Fabulous.  I’m a child.  This makes me think about apologizing for being so harsh.  I am about to when Jane regains my attention.

“Well, they only gave us ten minutes to visit. Sucks, I know, but I’ll be at the trial tomorrow. I want to be there for you. You know that I love you and would do anything for you, right?”

“I know, Jane. Thanks for everything.”

Lana says goodbye to Cody and wave’s goodbye to me as she and Jane turn to leave. I am aware of Chase watching them a little too intently as they exit the basement and head up the stairs. He’s such a pervert.

As soon as they leave, Chase’s snarky attitude is back. I groan at his comment.

“Maybe I should have hooked up with her instead. She might have appreciated me a little more and not hooked up with the first guy she laid eyes on after we met.”

I’m not in the mood for him. Forget the apology. My best friend had been here and I have Cody here for me. I didn’t want Chase to ruin my good mood. I cut him a look and turn to Cody. If I pretend he isn’t there, maybe he will take a hint.

“How was your visit with Lana?”

“She misses us. She worries about what will happen.”

“It’s entirely my fault. You wouldn’t be in this mess if it wasn’t for me being so stupid.”

“Shush, I don’t want to hear that. It’s not your fault that Chase is some freak of nature. As long as we’re together, it’ll be alright.”

“What will happen to us? Jane said they might stick us in the breeding program as punishment. I didn’t even think about that. This is your future they’re messing with too.”

“Princess, whatever happens, happens. I don’t care what they do to us. I just want you and I will take you any way I can get you.”

I’m so struck by his declaration that I climb up on my bed and meet him at the bars. I wrap my hands around his neck and he kisses me with a fevered passion. Everything around us fades away and it is just the two of us.

My body is warming and I’m completely consumed by him. His kiss is urgent and intense. His tongue tangles with mine and I’m engrossed in all things Cody.

He finally pulls away from me and we’re both breathless. I look up and know that his eyes match mine. They are glowing. I want his blood and I want him to have mine. What could it hurt?

I nip the tip of my index finger and bring it to his lips, the blood flowing freely. He makes a little sound of contentment as he pulls my finger in his mouth and licks the blood. He takes very little and seals the wound.

Cody mimics my actions and when I place his finger in my mouth, fireworks go off. The taste is better than any blood I have ever encountered. I take just a small amount as well and softly lick the wound.

When I look up this time, his eyes are still lit up, but his face shows his love for me. He smiles and brushes his hand gently across my cheek.

“You are the most beautiful creature I’ve ever laid eyes on. I love you, Callie Andell. We will make it through this together.”

I smile and am comforted at his words. We shared our Moment through the mental connection and I can feel his love for me through the bond. I can’t help but forget about everything else and grin like an idiot.

And then, Chase goes and shatters our perfect Moment. I’m growing more irritated by the minute with him. He may be gorgeous, but I really hate his personality. It rubs me the wrong way and I just want to strangle him at times.

“It’s almost disgusting to watch you two. I think I’m going to barf now.”

We both pin him with a glare.

“Don’t get me wrong, the eye thing is sexy. That whole sharing blood thing is like watching a porno movie. Kinky.”

I choose to be the mature one and ignore his comments. Even though I only had a little of Cody’s blood, I’m still experiencing a soft blood high. I lay in my bed, letting my thoughts run their course through my head. I would normally paint, but that isn’t exactly an option right now.

I shut my eyes and let my mind wander. My body is humming and I practice some meditation techniques to ground me. Soon, I feel my mind reaching out to Cody’s automatically.

He’s feeling the blood high too. I’m shocked to find the intensity of his thoughts. He is thinking things that are intimate enough to make me blush. I send him back some equally shocking thoughts, giving him a taste of what will happen Saturday and I hear his breathing catch. I smile, satisfied.

I must have fallen asleep, because I wake up to find several council members rushing down the stairs. Their faces are serious and dread creeps through me. Surprisingly, they ignore Cody and me. They focus on Chase and ask for more blood.

Why would they want more blood? And why are they so serious? I watch as he slides his arm out between the bars and allows them to draw more blood. They thank him and turn to leave. They are gone, just like that.

Confusion and curiosity war for my attention at that moment. There has to be a better explanation for this than the one I am conjuring up.

I see where this is going and it can’t be. Having a child with a human means instant death. We are immortal, but we can still be killed. No one can recover from a beheading or a stake to the heart. At least the legends got that right.

No vampire I know would risk impregnating a human. If that is, in fact, what happened, Chase would be a dhampir. We haven’t had one in recent history, but they are almost always turned in our history books. The secret must be kept.

I look at Chase with new eyes. I wonder if he knows. Deciding he mustn’t, I actually begin to wonder what it would be like to be different and not know why.

Dhampirs don’t need to live on blood like we do. They’re faster and stronger than most humans though. They age normally, but as I said, most are turned before they age. If there are more of them, they go undetected in the human world.

It’s sheer luck that I would have fed from a dhampir. No wonder his blood tasted so good. The blood running through his veins is half vampire. I’m suddenly feeling better about the situation. It isn’t my fault. I know this is just a theory, but it gives me hope.

If it’s true, then it begs the question, who is Chase’s real Dad? This would be like opening a whole new can of worms. Every vampire has blood samples in our database. We do this in case someone commits a crime or a paternity test is needed. The latter is almost never used, but is available nonetheless.

Finally, Cody breaks through my reverie. “Are you okay, princess? I hope you’re right. We could certainly use a break.”

He’s reading my thoughts, of course. For a moment, I feel invaded and it’s an uncomfortable feeling. Then I rethink it and realize it is a blessing. Cody is my blessing. No matter what happens, I will always love Cody. There will never be another for me.

“Come here, Callie.”

I nod and move to his side of my bed. I scoot as close to the bars as possible. Cody grasps my hands and wraps them in his. I feel a sense of calm wash over me as I soak up his energy and affection. I pull him into a slow, torturous kiss and he groans.

“I can’t wait until Saturday. You are so going to get it, you tease.”

I grin just knowing I have that effect on him. It gives me some semblance of control.

Then, someone comes down with dinner. We have to drink twice as much without our special cocktail. I can already begin to feel the effects of the missing nutrients. First, I’m so tired. Second of all, I’m irritable, which doesn’t bode well for Chase.

The bond with Cody and me would be more diminished if it wasn’t for sharing our blood. It reinforces our bond and actually brings us closer together. Our mind sharing has gotten stronger by the day.

I take mine and sip on it. I’m savoring every last bit of the bitter tasting blood. It nowhere near comes close to the taste of Cody’s blood, but I need more than I want to take from Cody right now.

After a few minutes, the weak blood high hits me. It may be weak, but it is at least something. Sitting in this cell, awaiting the verdict on my future is pure torture. I would be insane if not for Cody’s presence.

I lie on my back and close my eyes. There is silence and I know that Cody and Chase have nothing to say to each other. Amen for small favors.

My thoughts, are swirling around like a dust storm in my brain. So much has happened to turn my life upside down in the last week. It’s hard to believe that it’s almost been a week since that fateful night.

I finally sit up and lean my back against the bars. Cody’s enjoying his own blood high and I don’t want to bother him.

I sit in the bed cross-legged and gently bang my head against the bars behind me. The sheets are stiff and scratchy. The pillow is flat and the room is sparse. I only have access to a bed and a small, basic bathroom. Fortunately, I don’t have to pee in public. That is something, at least.

My hair feels stringier than usual and I want to wash my face with something other than plain soap. I can’t believe how much I actually miss the normal creature comforts I’m so used to. I don’t think I will ever take them for granted again, if I live that is.

Things have gotten desperate. I never thought something like this could ever happen, let alone to me. Due to the bizarre set of circumstances, I’m being held for possible treason. The thought that I would ever purposely betray my kind is unthinkable and makes me shudder.

Then there is the fact that I am dragging two royal families’ reputations through the mud. That means I have shamed four council members in the process. I can’t help but be ashamed of myself. It’s not really my fault, but that doesn’t change the situation.

Being royalty brings with it so many expectations to uphold, but being a teenage vampire is what really sucks. Ha, ha sucks. Anyways, I digress. I close my eyes and let my mind take me back to a time when things were simple, before him.

I am pulled back to the Moment I met Chase. He was the perfect blend of edgy and sexy. I should have known then that he was too good to be true.

At some point during my trip down memory lane, I fall asleep. Everything fades away and is replaced by a darkness that I can’t fight against. My eyes flutter closed and I let myself be pulled under.

I wake up to a pair of strong hands massaging my shoulders. Cody. Just his name makes me smile. I enjoy it for a few minutes before breaking away and turning towards him.

My face is glowing despite the crick in my neck from sleeping sitting up. I lean into the bars for a good morning kiss that sends a rush of warmth through me. When I pull away, I give Cody a huge smile.

“Hey, princess. How can you be in such a good mood? Our fate rests in the hands of Alexander. Did you take my advice and decide to go with the flow and be happy as long as we’re together?”

I sputter. Is it really that time already? I will be happy as long as I have Cody. The thing he doesn’t realize is that I’m responsible for Chase. His fate is on my shoulders and I will have to live with the outcome.

He reads my thoughts; lord knows I’m thinking them loud enough. I feel his fingers wrap into mine and I soak up his warmth. We will get through this.

It isn’t long before three guards come to retrieve us. They go to Chase first so they can tie him up. Once he is secured, the other two guards come for us. Our cells slide open and we head up the stairs and toward our fates.

We enter the chamber to find the council already seated around the room. We take our same spots in the metal folding chairs. It feels like we have to sit in them out of shame or something. Alexander slides into his spot at the dais and the hushed conversations go silent.

I swallow hard. This is it. Our lives will be decided today. I can’t bear to even look at Cody. How could I put him through this? If only I could wish this all away. It’s a shame I’m a vampire and not a genie.

Alexander clears his throat and opens our file. He scans the contents and there is genuine surprise in his expression. He didn’t know all the information until just now. The council has been collecting everything, including our blood samples.

I’m nervous and fidgety. I begin to bite at my manicured nails to quell my anxiety. The only problem is that I nick my finger on my fangs. I hadn’t even noticed that they descended. Damn.

Blood seeps out of the wound and everyone in the room gasps. Spilling blood in a room full of vampires is not a good thing. Lucky for me, Cody is quick with his reaction. Before it can spill to the ground, he slips my finger into his mouth.

Once the blood is gone, he gently licks the wound to seal it. He holds my hand and kisses the back of it before bringing it back down to my side. Cody’s a life saver, crisis averted.

I try to ignore the looks of curiosity from all the council members. I do, however, watch for Alexander’s reaction. His face holds something different. His look is thoughtful and a chill runs through me.

Chase shifts in his chair uncomfortably and the attention shifts from me to him. Thank goodness for small favors. He glares at Alexander like a challenge and the only thing I can think to do is kick him. Chase lets out an “ouch” before turning his glare on me. Fine, at least glaring at me, instead of Alexander, could save his life.

It seems like everyone is waiting on something. I look around, unsure of the situation. Then, two guards open the double doors and bring in two, blue, velvet chairs. They set them towards the back and leave the room, only to return with two vampires. My jaw drops at the sight of them.

It’s Jane and Lana. I have no idea why they’re here, but it can’t be a good thing. I’m trying not to panic, but it’s a battle I’m starting to lose.

Alexander clears his throat and everyone quiets. All eyes focus on him. I guess I’m ready now. No matter what happens, my true mate, my parents and my best friends are here. I should be thankful that I’m this blessed. Their support means everything.

“This has turned out to be a very interesting case. We have a few things to discuss before we get started,” Alexander says.

He says the case is interesting. Is that good or bad? I’m trying not to read anything into it, but it’s very hard to slow my racing mind.

“Chase, are you sure you have never met your father? What were you doing in the club alone that night you met Callie?”

Chase looks him straight in the eyes as he responds, leaving no doubt that he’s telling the truth. “I’ve never met my father, sir. My Mom would never even talk about him.”

He lets that sink in and then continues with the answer to the next question. “I was supposed to meet up with a blind date at the club, but I got stood up. I was actually getting ready to leave right before I met Callie. I’m still glad I met her, regardless of this stupid situation.”

Alexander stiffened, but didn’t call Chase on his disrespect. Instead, he turned his attention to me. My breath caught in my chest and I waited for the shit storm to come.

“Callie, have you ever met Chase before that night?”

“No. Jane and I were hunting and she let me have first pick of guys that night. I saw him and knew he was the one I was going to pick,” I reply with a grimace. I know this has to be hard on Cody. I can sense it through our bond.

Once Alexander turns his attention to Cody, I stiffen in fear. I had just assumed they would leave him out of this. I was foolish to think I could get through this without dragging him through the mud as well.

“At any point during the night of the blood ball, did you feel Callie forced you to pay close attention to her? Did you ever once wonder if her actions were anything but pure?”

Cody grits his teeth, trying to calm his temper. “No, sir. If anything, I was the one going out of my way to gain Callie’s attention. I have wanted her for a very long time and I wasn’t about to let my chance pass me by. It was crystal clear the Moment we kissed that her actions were just as pure as mine.”

Satisfied with that answer, Alexander nods. I let out the breath I have been holding. This is a lot harder than I thought it was going to be. I just hadn’t expected so many more questions before he read our verdict. Maybe he’s still on the fence and it could work in our favor.

“I have the results of Callie and Cody’s blood test. Callie, it turns out that Cody is in fact your true mate. It’s very lucky to have found him so quickly. You are truly blessed.”

I’m not sure if he is really happy for us. His voice holds an edge of disdain and I wonder if he is implying that our mating just saved my ass. Either way, I know Cody is my true mate so the confession just cements our relationship in the eyes of the public vampire population.

“As you know, there has to be a punishment for bringing Chase into our world, whether it was on purpose or not. However, I will not sentence you to death or take your true mate away from you.”

I sit here on pins and needles as I wait for the other shoe to drop. I’m not sure what he is going to say, but I’m relieved Cody and I will stay together. Whatever he has to say next can’t be that bad as long as we can do it as a couple.

“As you know, you are in line to be my royal heir. With it comes a responsibility to our community. Others before you are failing to fulfill their duties. It is my decision that you and Cody will not be going to college in the fall.”

Everyone gasps and dread crops up. What on earth could he really be saying? He’s going to take our college education away from us? Why? I wait in anticipation for Alexander to continue.

“That is not your punishment. You may look at this as a punishment, but I hope you will look at it as an opportunity to do right by our people.”

Talk about dragging out the suspense. I feel like I’m on one of those reality television shows where they pause a million times before revealing the baby daddy. My body is stiff as I force myself to take deep, steady breaths. I remind myself that I can handle whatever he throws my way as long as I have Cody.

“I am going to have you move into the castle immediately. You and Cody will be trained to rule our community. Training will be tough and I expect you both to put in it everything you have. I do not make this decision lightly.”

Rule? Oh crap, this is not how I thought this was going to go. I’m not prepared for this. It’s clear he isn’t yet finished, so I don’t dare look at Cody for his reaction yet.

“As a contingency though, I must invoke the breeding law. You and Cody are true mates and of royal bloodlines. As such, you two are responsible as rulers, to produce an heir to the throne. I will give you one year to complete the task of pregnancy.”

I nearly choke on his words. I’m still not sure I heard him right. Cody and I are going to rule? I must be pregnant within a year? There won’t be a college education for us? We are moving into the royal castle with Alexander himself? We’re going to be trained in vampire politics? How has this all come about? What on earth is Alexander thinking?

I try not to let panic overcome me as I wait for him to finish his wordy verdict. The words are swirling into each other, forming a string of confusion in my head.

“I understand you two have a bonding ceremony tomorrow. I will allow you to have the weekend to yourselves. The ceremony is important. Monday, I will send movers for your things. You will have Tuesday night to get moved in and settled. I expect you to report to this room on Wednesday night at nine to start your training.”

Holy hot sauce, this is big. I’m not expecting this at all. I know he is finished and expects a response from me. I choke out what I can through all the shocking news I am absorbing.

“Yes, sir. I’ll be ready.”

Then he turns to Cody. I finally look over to see his expression. It’s neutral, not giving anything away. I feel a wall blocking our bond right now and am not sure what he’s hiding from me. Maybe he’s disappointed and doesn’t want me to know. Now I’ll just worry twice as much.

“Yes, sir. I am honored and will make you proud.”

I’m shocked by his words. He isn’t mad. Part of me is indignant that he’s taking it so well. The rational part of me is thrilled. He isn’t mad and he won’t leave me. I get to keep him forever. I can’t see his eyes, his head is slightly tilted down in respect and a shock of hair is hanging over them.

I try not to let everything Alexander said get to me right now. There are more important things to worry about. Things like making sure Chase doesn’t lose his life.

“Now, I am forced to address a less pleasant issue. Chase.”

He doesn’t even need to say more. He has said enough with just that one word.

“After reviewing your blood work, I have made an interesting discovery. I have not had to deal with this particular issue in decades. This situation is rare and has to be addressed.”

Now that the spotlight is off of me, I risk a glance at Chase. He is uncharacteristically still and devoid of emotion.

“The reason that the memory wipe won’t work on you is because you’re not human. You are a dhampir, a half vampire, half human breed.”

Alexander waits for him to soak up that tidbit. Chase shoots back an immediate response.

“What the…what the hell is a dhampir? I’m not a vampire, but I’m not opposed to becoming one.”

“As I was saying, a dhampir is the resulting progeny when a vampire and a human mate. The end result of the mating is a sub species of humans with vampire blood in their veins. They are stronger and faster than a normal human, but they do not require the blood that we do.”

“If my Dad was a vampire, would my Mom have known?”

“Yes, she would have. You can’t memory wipe an entire pregnancy. Our hold isn’t that strong.”

“I can’t believe she never told me. My whole life was a lie.”

Chase’s features crumple and I actually feel even sorrier for him than I already did. He may not be my favorite person, but this was just as serious as being sentenced to death.  Someone broke the rules and he will have to pay the price.

“Now comes the most unpleasant part of this verdict,” Alexander says, his features looking stiff and forced.

Oh, no. This is it. I can’t believe it is happening and it’s my fault. He pauses and then scans the room. What on earth is he looking for? Who on earth is he looking for, I should say? Chase is now sitting ramrod straight with his whole attention focused on Alexander. He knows something big is about to go down.

“In light of your blood work, Chase, I must address your lineage. I ran your blood test up against our vampire database and found out who your father is.”

If anyone thought that would be his next statement, they didn’t show it. Shock swept through the room and everyone looked around wildly to find the culprit. Everyone knows that this person is in for a death sentence now.

“Before I reveal the person responsible for your mixed heritage, I want to say a few things. This verdict has nothing to do with my personal feelings. I don’t enjoy tearing families apart, especially mates. However, the mate bond can’t be that strong if this indiscretion happened. For the family, I am truly sorry for your loss. Just remember this verdict can’t be reversed.”

Fried green tomatoes, this whole thing has taken an interesting turn. Here I was worried about my own future and some family in this room is about to be torn apart. It didn’t seem fair that I could cause yet another family pain from this fiasco.

“Mr. Monte and Mr. Lucia, please approach the dais.”

Both men stand up and make their way forward. Everyone is searching wildly for the one responsible. Both of their mates look scared and ready to break at the words to come.

Alexander waits until they have reached him and then he answers the question on all of our minds. Who is Chase’s father?

“Mr. Monte, I have called you up here to tell you what you already know. You are Chase’s father and will receive the death sentence, effective immediately.”

Mrs. Monte drops to the floor in shock. Everyone rushes to check on her. In the midst of the commotion, Mr. Monte tries to make a futile attempt at escape. Mr. Lucia catches up to him and grabs him by the leg. Mr. Monte falls to the ground and Mr. Lucia has him pinned.

The whole scene is surreal. On one side of the room, there is a jilted mate and the news of a broken family. In the middle of the room, two grown men are on top of one another on the floor. Finally, Mr. Monte resigns to his fate.

Mr. Lucia helps him up now that guards are in place at the doors to keep Mr. Monte in. They return to their spot at the dais. Alexander looks at Mr. Monte angrily. I can’t say that I blame him. Mr. Monte just tried to openly defy him in the midst of his mate’s breakdown.

“Now that we have established Mr. Monte’s punishment, we will talk about why you are up here, Mr. Lucia. You have always been an upstanding member of the royal council. I appreciate your loyalty and call on you now to deliver Mr. Monte’s death for me. I want everyone in this room to witness what happens when you commit treason. Let it be a lesson you share with others. I don’t enjoy doing this and would prefer to prevent it in the future.”

Mr. Lucia nods, but there is no joy in his features. A guard comes up to him and gives him an incredibly sharp, metal stake. The thing looks like it can cut through flesh like it’s butter. Ouch.

Even though it’s metal, it will get the job done. We don’t require a wooden stake to kill us. Anything sharp through the heart will do it. I wish we turned to dust, but we don’t. His veins will, however, dry up, leaving him looking less than pleasant.

Without any hesitation, Mr. Lucia delivers the deadly blow. The metal stake slips through his sternum with ease and the pointed end pokes out his back once it was in him to the hilt. He drops like a sack of potatoes.

Just like that, Mr. Monte is gone. Mrs. Monte is crying hysterically and there’s an eerie silence in the courtroom. It’s almost as if they didn’t believe it was going to happen. Mr. Monte is the example set for the rest of the community not to step out of line.

I’m so grateful that isn’t me, but I still don’t wish it on anyone. The impact that his death will have on Hannah will be devastating. It’s true that I don’t like her one bit and she tried to steal my mate but, I would never wish this kind of tragedy on her.

A guard steps forward with a cloth for Mr. Lucia to wipe off with and Alexander dismisses him. I watch as he goes back to his seat and his wife grips his hand in fear. She was afraid for him.

Three guards come forward at Alexander’s signal and carry Mr. Monte away. It is still quiet as they exit the room. Alexander clears his throat and continues on.

“Does anyone have any question as to why that had to happen?”

Chase is the one who actually responds. “You are a murderer.”

He doesn’t look so cocky and confident anymore. There is a definite change in his demeanor. His eyes on the other hand, are blazing with fear and contempt. I can’t imagine finding your father after all these years only to watch him brought to death.

“Be that as it may, your whole future doesn’t have to be the same as Mr. Monte’s. I will allow you to be turned instead of killed, under a few conditions.”

Everyone in the room sighs in relief. I don’t dare show relief just yet. There are conditions, and I know firsthand that they can be a steep price to pay. One day I will be the one delivering these verdicts just because I accidentally broke the rules.

I never had any desire to take over for Alexander. I always hoped someone else would do it. I hadn’t imagined that it would ever be me. I was so wrong.

“I’m listening,” Chase says.

“Your life outside this community is over. Someone will pack your things and bring them here. You have one month to find a sire. Once you’re turned, you need that person to guide you and take responsibility for you. Is that part clear?”

“Yes, sir, it is.”

“The second part is that I want it to be your mate. You are from royal blood so I would prefer it be someone from a royal family. Yes, this will make things more difficult, but it will be better than death, I assure you.”

“I can agree to find a mate. I see how it works here and would be happy to find that for myself.”

“Excellent. One month, Chase, or else you know the alternative.”

Chase nods and I think he’s just grateful to avoid his own death. Things in this trial have gotten serious and fast. He knows it and is taking what he can get.

I think we are finally finished, when Alexander continues. “Lucky for you, Chase, you may not have to wait a month. There’s someone here that has offered to speak up for you. They are from a royal line and they are old enough to mate with you. This is an offer you should not consider lightly. This vampire is putting themselves out there to give you a chance at a real life here.”

I can’t even begin to think of who would offer themselves up to mate with him. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t want his death on my hands. I just can’t understand what motivation they would have. It’s not like he knows anyone like he knows me.

I just become more confused when no one enters the room. My brows tug into a frown and I scan the room. No, it couldn’t be. The only royal of age in this room is Jane.

No, she wouldn’t. I would owe her for the rest of my life if she did this. She would be saving me. I just can’t believe she would do that for me. She’s my best friend, but still. I turn to meet her eyes and know it’s the truth. She winks at me and then stands up.

I think I’m still in shock. Jane makes her way to the dais and Alexander gestures that the floor is hers. She turns and her eyes meet Chase’s. Her cheeks actually color under his gaze. At least I know she is definitely attracted to him.

“I know we only met briefly yesterday, but I liked you even when I saw you at the club that night. It was just sheer luck on Callie’s side that she got you. I saw you yesterday and realized that you could be a really great mate, as well as a good royal. You are fearless and stand up for yourself. I admire that.”

Jane waits for him to turn her down, but he doesn’t. He’s still silent, like he is soaking the information in. She continues to explain.

“I like you enough that I wouldn’t want to see you put to death. I am offering myself to you as a sire and a mate. You would have a seat next to me on the royal council when my parents retire. I think I can make you happy, but ultimately this is your choice.”

Nothing should surprise me at this point, yet here I am, dumbfounded. This is certainly an unexpected turn of events. Jane is braver than I ever thought.

Chase looks at Alexander as if asking permission. Alexander nods. Chase stands and then makes his way up to the dais next to Jane.

“You are sexy, nice and brave. Those are all qualities I would have looked for in a mate. You are also a loyal friend to Callie. If you will have me, I would love to mate with you.”

Jane smiles and a strangled ‘yes’ escapes her lips. Chase wraps her into a hug and kisses her forehead. Everyone stands and begins to clap. I’m still shocked, but Cody soon pulls me out of it. His fingers lace with mine and he stands up, pulling me with him.

He brushes my hair back and kisses me. I smile when he pulls away and we stand there waiting for the trial to finish. Everyone finally quiets down, but no one sits. I notice that Jane and Chase are holding hands. Wow.

Alexander waits until the room silences once again. “In this matter of Callie and Chase, I have now delivered my verdict and this trial is concluded.” He nods to me and then to Chase.

“Oh, and someone please see Mrs. Monte home. I would like them to be there for her when she delivers the news to Hannah.”

Then he turns and leaves the room the way he came. My eyes grow wide at the thought of Hannah. Crappity, crap, crap, crap. This is entirely my fault. It’s just one more reason for her to hate me. That’s not something I wanted. She’s already off her rocker.

The room is calm until Mrs. Monte and several other council members leave. As soon as my parents, Cody’s parents, Jane’s parents, and Lana have joined the four of us, everyone starts talking at once.

Through the excited chatter, I manage to make my way to Jane. I pull her away from Chase long enough to give her a giant hug. “Thank you, Jane. You are the best friend that anyone could ever have. I love you like a sister.”

She returns my hug and replies. “You are my sister, Callie. I would do anything for you. Besides, look at Chase. It’s not like I’m suffering with one of the hottest guys as my mate. I just dropped in and scooped him up before any of the other bitches could.”

Her reply makes me laugh and tears form in my eyes. When I pull away, she winks and then wraps herself back up in Chase’s arms. He definitely seems like he’s enjoying the attention. He should, too. Jane is a sleek and sexy blonde that is every guy’s fantasy. I hope he takes good care of her.

Mom and Dad are so busy planning my mating, as well as Jane’s, that the adults seem to have tuned us out. That’s okay with me, because I can only focus on me and Cody.

Cody tugs me back to him and I know he needs that connection right now. We have been parted by bars for a while and even I need him right now. I snuggle close and sigh. He runs his hands across my jaw and I tip my head up to meet his eager lips. He feels like love, goodness and home. His warmth is calming and for the first time in days, I’m happy.

It’s very late by the time we leave the castle. I have the hardest time saying goodbye to Cody, but her reminds me that I only have to wait until tomorrow evening for us to be together forever. It’s painful to be away from him. Our bond has almost fully formed and I’m having withdrawals just thinking about being apart from him.

I, once again, congratulate Chase and Jane. Ginger and Nick gather me up in an embrace and tell me how great it is that things worked out. They can’t wait for me and Cody to be mated. Lana is unusually quiet, but when I ask her to come over tomorrow and help me pick out the perfect dress for my mating, she cheers right up.

My Mom grasps my hand, just like she did when I was a kid. I can tell how worried she was. I indulge her all the way to the car. We all sit in the back and our driver takes us home. I yawn, knowing that the night has taken a toll on me.

Once we are inside, I let out a breath. I am relieved to be home. After my stint in the castle jail, I have a new appreciation for my own bed and shower.

I remember that I’ve been on blood rations and it has made me weak. I rush to the kitchen and pour myself a large glass of blood. I down the thick red liquid as fast as I can. Then I set my glass in the sink for the maid.

“Oh, honey, I’m so proud of you. Not only did you take responsibility for your actions, but you found your true mate. Now you are going to be the next ruler of our kind. You have really stepped up. It’s hard to believe how grown up you’ve become,” Mom gushes.

“We’re very proud of you, Callie. You will make a good mate and a great ruler,” Dad adds.

“Thanks, Mom and Dad. It’s all a lot to absorb. I think I’m still in shock. On that note, I’m going to go take a nice, hot shower and curl up in bed. I want to be ready for tomorrow night. I know it’s going to be crazy busy.”

Mom smiles and nods at me. “Okay sweetheart. Get some rest.”

I do exactly as I say and take a steamy shower. The hot water helps wash away all traces of that prison cell. I never want to be on that end of our laws again.

After dressing in underwear and a soft, jersey night shirt, I wrap myself in my blankets and mentally say goodnight to Cody. I’m surprised when he does too. Before I have a chance to soak in everything that has happened tonight, I drift off to sleep.

I wake to a light tapping on my door. It feels as if I have just fallen asleep, but it’s dark outside. I can quickly tell by the lack of light peaking in the corners of my blinds. Groaning, I throw back the covers and amble towards the door.

I pull the door open and find Jane on the other side. A huge grin spreads across my face and I give her a hug.

“What are you doing here?”

“I’m here to help pick out your mating gown, of course. Now hurry up and toss some jeans and a tee on so we can get going. Everyone’s waiting downstairs for you.”

“Define everyone,” I say.

Your Mom, Ginger, Lana and I are all waiting on you. No one wanted to interrupt your beauty sleep so I volunteered. I knew you wouldn’t kill me,” she says grinning.

I run into my closet, suddenly excited. As I’m getting hastily dressed, all I can think about is Cody. We finally get to be together. Awesome.

After slipping on my sandals, I’m ready. I tug on Jane’s arm and we leave my room, both of us grinning.

“You know, this is going to be you, too, soon. Chase only has a month to be bonded.”

“I know. We are going to start the process first thing Monday. We definitely have chemistry, I found out,” she says as she winks.

I just shake my head and laugh. That’s my best friend alright.

Once we hit the bottom of the stairs, I’m surrounded. Everyone begins to talk at once. We have to hurry so I can get a dress before all the shops close down.

“Okay, there needs to be less talking and more walking. I want to find something amazing to wear tonight.”

We all shuffle out and I’m surprised to find a black limo in the driveway. Everyone piles in and Mom cracks open some bottled blood. As the car leaves my house behind, Mom passes the champagne flutes around and gives a toast.

“To my baby girl, who is now all grown up and ready to take on the vampire world. We are so proud of you. You will make a great mate and a wonderful ruler. May great things happen for you and Cody.”

Everyone shouts, “Cheers,” and I giggle. It’s hard to believe I thought I was actually happy before. Nothing compares to finding one’s true mate.

After a few more minutes of toasting and sipping blood, we pull to a stop in front of an upscale dress store. The dresses in the window are exquisite.

“It’s so late, how are we going to get in?”

“Baby girl, we paid them to stay open late. I want you to find the perfect dress for the most important day of your life. Now let’s go on in.”

We all file out of the limo and an older lady greets us at the door. Once inside, the lady locks the door behind us and turns on the lights. My heart gets stuck in my chest when I see all the beautiful dresses. They look amazing.

I barely have a chance to sit before I get shoved into a dressing room and everyone starts handing me dresses. I try on dresses of all shapes and sizes.

Finding one that actually fits, I exit the dressing room. It’s a black, strapless dress with a large slit up one side.

“Oh no, that isn’t going to work. It’s sexy, yes, but it’s not THE dress,” Jane informs me.

I’m relieved, because I’m not too fond of it. I go back in for round two. I try on a blue dress with tooling on the skirt, a ruby dress with a train, and a purple dress that looks suspiciously like my coming out dress. They are all no’s.

Then, amidst the piles of dresses, I find it. I hold it up and know it is meant to be my mating dress. I focus on nothing but getting the dress on. It looks stunning on me. I’m in awe. It’s a halter dress with a completely opened back that drapes just below my hips. It’s a gorgeous, emerald colored satin.

Excited, I can barely contain my squeals as I exit the dressing room one more time. “This is the one!!” I shout enthusiastically.

After a Moment, everyone agrees that it’s the one. I rush back to get dressed and leave the rest of the dresses in the room. The poor lady will have to put them all back, but we just don’t have time to help.

“Now we need to find you accessories and lingerie,” Lana says, grinning.

My cheeks flush, but I make my way to the lingerie and search for a pair of lacy panties since I can’t wear a bra with this dress. I spot a pair of lacy tangas that match the dress and I grab them excitedly.

We finish by finding a pair of simple, emerald earrings. Once we gather up my purchases, I remember that I need shoes. I hurry over to the shoe section and settle on a pair of silver, sparkly, open toed, kitten pump heels.

Mom pays for my purchases and we are back in the limo heading home.

To my surprise, when we get home, everyone piles out. I wasn’t expecting help getting ready. Mom sees my expression and tells me that it’s tradition. I reluctantly agree and we take my outfit straight upstairs.

“Go get in the shower, princess.” Jane mocks Cody’s nickname for me.

“Yes, my mated best friend,” I say as I give her a cheeky grin.

I hurry to get into the shower, but take my time once I’m in there. I carefully shave my legs and under my arms. I want tonight to be absolutely perfect. I’m a little nervous as well.

After getting out, I wrap a fluffy towel around myself and one on my head. I open the bathroom door and steam seeps into the room. I can’t help but feel the excitement buzzing throughout.

Mom tosses me a pair of shorts, my green tangas and a button up shirt to slip on. I shut myself in my closet and get dressed. I pull on my mental connection with Cody just to give myself some comfort.

Ginger makes haste, working to pull my hair up in a fancy up do. I dread the thousands of bobby pins that I’m going to have to remove after this.

A loud banging and persistent ringing of the doorbell break us out of our conversations. I frown, knowing that everyone I want to see is here. Cautiously, we make our way downstairs and I see Finn open the door. Shock doesn’t even begin to cover my reaction to who I find standing on my doorstep.

Hannah Monte. Boy, does she look pissed. I look around to see the weary looks on everyone’s faces. My Mom begins to go toward her, but Hannah just pushes her way inside.

She looks awful. Her eyes are red and puffy. She has tear tracks down her cheeks. I can see her grinding her teeth, trying to hold her anger in. Holy hot sauce, is she mad.

All I want to do is push her out and shut the door. This is my binding night to Cody. I don’t want her to taint the memories of it. It doesn’t look like I’m going to have a choice though. Damn.

“You’ve ruined my life, Callie Andell!! First, you steal my mate and have the gall to flaunt your romantic whirlwind with him. You’re a selfish bitch! Then, you have to go and ruin my family! How sick is it that you stood by and watched as they murdered my father?”

“I’m sorry, Hannah. I never meant for any of this to happen. You know that Cody and I are true mates and you liking him doesn’t change that. As for your Dad, I didn’t have any idea that was going to happen. Alexander’s word is the law and we were helpless to stop it.”

“Whatever. You’re a stupid cow. You get everything handed to you. You don’t even notice Cody’s existence until the blood ball and all of a sudden you swoop in and claim him. It makes me sick!”

“Calm down, Hannah. You’re going to give yourself a panic attack,” I say in a soothing voice.

“You can shut up now. I’m not finished. Then, you break the rules and while others suffer, you get rewarded! How is that fair? Now you get to be heir to the throne and will live in the castle with Cody, happily ever after. You suck, Callie!”

“I can’t help what Alexander decides. I have to do whatever he says. Did you hear the part about the breeding law? I have to skip college so I can train and have babies! How is that fair?”

I’m getting worked up now. Hannah brings out the worst in me and I want to reach over and smack her. She needs to take a breath and step away before I do something I will regret.

“Oh, blah, blah, blah, Callie. That’s such a tragedy. You get to have adorable babies and rule all the vampires. That is hardly a sacrifice. You don’t deserve everything that’s been handed to you!”

Suddenly, like it is in slow motion, my temper ignites. How dare she try and ruin this day for me. I raise my hand up and slap her across the cheek. Hard.

My hand stings from the contact and I shake it off. Hannah stares at me, wide eyed, with a look of horror. She obviously didn’t think I would do anything and that I would just sit and take her crap. Well, she’s wrong.

“You did not just do that. I have nothing to lose at this point; you took it all from me.”

Then, Hannah proceeded to throw herself at me. We drop to the hardwood floor and I focus on dodging her punches. She looks feral and I realize that she’s totally lost it now. The bitchy Hannah is gone and replaced with someone unrecognizable.

Finally, Jane and Lana manage to pull her off me. I take a deep breath, now that the pressure of her weight is off me. Then Ginger speaks up.

“Girls, why don’t you drive Hannah home? She’s in no condition to be driving and I think it’s time she leaves.”

“Yes, ma’am. We’ll be right back,” Jane says respectfully.

Everyone is silent as Jane and Lana carry Hannah out of the house. She fights them at first, and then resigns as if it’s too much trouble. My Mom shuts the door behind them and rushes to me.

Mom wraps her arms around me. “Oh, honey. I was so scared for you! Are you okay? Do you want a glass of blood?”

I think about it for a minute and then nod. I’m so shaken up that the blood will calm my nerves. Mom calls for the maid to bring the cocktail and I swallow it down in seconds.

As soon as I have visibly calmed down a bit, my Mom and Ginger guide me up the stairs and back to my room. I reach out once again and tug on my connection with Cody. He is distressed and I give off calming vibes.

I don’t want him worked up over what happened. He may read my mind, but I want him to know I’m excited for tonight. I send him an image of us together and let him feel my lust and impatience.

I’m broken from the connection by Mom accidentally stabbing me with a bobby pin. She is mumbling something about having to redo all their hard work, thanks to the tiff in the foyer.

I smirk, knowing my Mom feels the same way about Hannah that I do. She’s a few eggs short of a carton.

Ginger opens my big makeup case and begins to apply my makeup. I’m getting antsy and excited. In just a short while, Cody and I will seal our bond and become true mates forever.

Even the thought of living in the castle and ruling can’t dampen my enthusiasm. Tonight is about me and Cody and only us. As nervous as that makes me, I know I can trust him.

I’m just about ready to get dressed when Jane and Lana return. I’m curious to hear how that went.

“So, what’s the verdict? Did you get her home in one piece?” I ask.

“That was the most unpleasant thing I have had to do in, like, forever. At least she isn’t trying to steal my mate,” Jane says with a smirk.

“Her Mom didn’t even come out to retrieve her. We finally just left her at her front door. I didn’t want to set foot inside their creepy house. It just felt wrong,” Lana adds.

I sigh and turn towards my closet. It’s time to get dressed. Excitement and anticipation course through me and I smile like a lovesick, school girl. I can’t wait to be with Cody, finally all alone.

“It’s time for me to get dressed guys. I’ll be right back.”

I turn and shut myself in my closet once again. I strip down to my panties so I can put on my dress. The dress is hanging at the end of the closet and looks amazing. After pulling it off the hanger, I slip it on and fasten the hook at the base of my neck.

Looking in the mirror, I realize just how stunning the dress is on me. I feel sexy and vulnerable. The dress flows just to my feet and the back fabric hangs loosely, baring my entire back. I hope Cody likes it.

Jane knocks on the closet and hollers at me. “Hurry up, princess. You probably look fantastic.”

I slip on my shoes and stride over to open the closet door. Everyone’s eyes are on me. I have stunned them into silence. I sure hope that’s a good thing. I turn for effect and everyone snaps out of it.

“You are so beautiful, dear,” Mom says.

“I hope I look that good for my mating,” Jane remarks.

Smiling, I pull on the connection with Cody. I have been blocking him some, because I want the dress to be a secret. That doesn’t mean I can’t tease him a little. I mentally send him two words: no bra. I sense the lust rush through the connection and it makes me feel desired. I can’t wait any longer.

“Am I ready to go yet?”

“The limo is waiting downstairs for you,” Mom remarks.

“Does anyone want to tell me where we are going? Why does the ritual place have to be so secretive?”

“We can’t tell you, Callie. It’s just part of the bonding process. Don’t worry though, Cody doesn’t know either,” Ginger assures me.

I’m filled with anticipation and an overwhelming desire for Cody. I feel like everything else is just going on in a haze around me. I really hope he likes my dress.

Everyone follows me down the stairs and we gather in the foyer near the front door. It feels like I’m saying goodbye to my old life and starting anew, which I am. Maybe a better analogy would be a caterpillar changing into a beautiful butterfly.

Mom wraps me up in a hug first. “Congratulations, honey. I always knew this day would come. You are going to make us proud as you start your next stage in life.”

Ginger comes next. It’s a strange emotion to know she is now going to be like a Mom to me. “I’m so happy to welcome you into our family, Callie. I know you are the right vampire for my son and I will love you like my own daughter.”

All of this sentiment is making me a little tearful and I’m afraid it’s going to ruin my makeup. I’m almost done, I have to remind myself.

Lana throws her arms around me and nearly knocks me off balance. I grin at her enthusiasm. She doesn’t say anything though, just gives me a warm embrace and steps away.

Of course, the thought of saying goodbye to Jane makes me all misty eyed. I’m going to miss hunting with her, despite our last debacle. It all turned out for the best and I know she isn’t alone either now.

“Go get lucky tonight. I need a play by play later so I know what the hell to expect,” she whispers with a smirk.

I laugh out loud and nod. “I promise, Jane.”

Then that’s it. I have said all my goodbyes and turn towards the door. Finn opens it and I carefully maneuver towards the limo.

When I get there, I take one last look at my old life and the people that are going to be with me going forward. I’m really blessed. They’re all standing on the porch, waiting to see me off.

I get to the limo and the driver stops me before opening the door. He pulls out an elegant, silk blindfold and I reluctantly put it on. I’m even more anxious without my sense of sight. It just makes all my other senses elevated.

He opens the door and then guides me into the limo. The door shuts with a soft click and I’m alone in the back seat with my thoughts. Uncertainty and excitement war inside me. I love Cody with my whole being and I can’t wait to be his.

Another part of me worries that I don’t know what the hell I’m doing. What if I’m not very good tonight? He’ll be stuck with me forever. I brush the unpleasant thought away as if it were just an unwanted nuisance.

We start forward and I’m still not sure where we’re going. I reach out and connect with Cody. I can feel similar emotions running through him. I’m shocked. He is actually nervous too.

I don’t get any clues as to where we’re going though, because he’s in pitch black. I assume they blindfolded him as well. Swell. Now I just have to wait impatiently.

The ride flies by fairly quickly. I only have a minute to remember Hannah’s escapades tonight before we’re slowing to a stop. I think my heart is going to leap out of my chest.

The back door to the limo opens and I feel the warm, summer breeze against my mostly exposed body. I give an involuntary shiver as I carefully step out into the night.

I’m gently guided into a building, but no door opens. This just gets curiouser and curiouser. We walk for a ways and I focus on not tripping on the hem of my dress. That in itself is a huge task.

The only sounds are the ones our feet make across the tiled floor. I’m starting to wonder if I’m on a wild goose chase when we finally come to a stop.

A door opens and a deep voice announces that we will be going up stairs. Hmm, I’m very lost. This doesn’t feel like anywhere I’ve ever been.

He stands behind me and I slowly make it up a twisty staircase a few minutes later. I can tell the minute we exit the stairs. The room we have stepped into has a draft and I know it’s a large one.

We don’t stop though. I’m soon guided through another door. This room isn’t covered in tile, but I don’t think its carpet either.

My ears perk up as I hear my guide whispering to someone else. Try as I might, I can’t make out a word he’s saying. Soon enough, he has stopped and is issuing a command.

“I want you to wait thirty seconds before taking off your blindfolds. You will be locked in here until sunset tomorrow evening to protect the secrecy of the location. This is a sacred place that all bonding rituals occur in. Congratulations.”

Then, I hear two sets of footsteps receding. The door shuts and I hear the lock slide into place. My nerves are a frayed mess and my heart is beating wildly now.

I don’t waste any time tearing off the blindfold. When I do, I am just inches from Cody. He’s just finished pulling off his own blindfold and it flutters to the floor.

Instinct takes over. I don’t care about anything but him. I throw myself into his arms and place a kiss on his soft, pink lips. He wraps his hands around me as the kiss deepens and then he stiffens.

At first I think I’ve done something wrong and start to pull away. He just tightens his grip on me and looks me in the eyes. His amber eyes are blazing and I know he desires me.

I feel his hands roam my body as he takes in the back of the dress and they settle on my waist. He pulls me towards him and whispers in my ear. “You look like the most perfect vampire I’ve ever laid eyes on. I’m going to devour you in that dress.”

Shivers slide down my spine, but not from being cold. This is finally it. I’m going to be mated for life to the most awesome guy in the whole world. I couldn’t be luckier.

He’s wearing a tuxedo, much like the one he wore the night of the blood ball. I want to swoon at the look of desire that he’s giving me.

I break the contact to finally look around the room. It feels like we have stepped back in time. There is a four poster bed against one wall, with plush white bedding. I can’t wait to sink down into it.

The wall next to it reveals a bathroom. There’s a small light on that makes our surroundings look like they are soaked in moonlight. I walk in the ornately decorated room with high ceilings. Crown molding adorns the walls. There’s a shower and a claw foot tub. Everything is in gold and a rich honey color.

I’m surprised, but there aren’t any windows in the room or the bathroom. It feels like we’re sealed in our own little world. I’m about to say just that when I feel Cody’s fingers wrap around my upper arm.

I smile and turn towards him. He tilts his head to the wall opposite from us. I look to the other side of the room and notice a Victorian dresser. Moving closer, I examine what is on top of it.

There’s an ornate chalice. Below it is a note.

To complete the blood oath, you must both bleed into the chalice. Then each of you must drink.

“I guess this is the part of the ritual that is so sacred,” Cody says as he bites into his wrist and lets his blood drip into the cup.

“I love how your blood tastes,” I blurt out nervously as I follow his lead.

He chuckles and brushes a hand across my face. “I love how yours tastes too, princess. Let’s do this.”

I don’t know what I expected, but it’s just like drinking the cocktail only fresher and sweeter. When we’re finished, we set the chalice back on the dresser and move towards the bed.

This time, his eyes light up in a molten tawny tone and I know that this is it. In the dim lighting of our surroundings, we become true mates in every sense of the word.

I wake up to warmth and I inhale the scent of cinnamon and a scent very unique to Cody. We’re in the middle of the bed and I’m facing him, my legs twined with his. My head rests on his chest and when I look up; I discover he’s looking at me. The only light is coming from the bathroom. I can only guess it’s nighttime.

“Good evening, Callie,” he tells me. Then he lifts my chin and his lips meet mine in a slow passionate kiss. Yummy. He is so gorgeous, amazing and so many more things than I can’t even describe. I’m completely and utterly enthralled by him.

“Mm… good night, yourself,” I say, grinning.

I stretch languidly like a cat and he pulls me down, hovering over me. I feel his eyes drinking me in and a shiver passes through me. I sense his excitement and I giggle. He pulls the covers back up over us and I forget about the world outside of these four walls once again.

His soft lips trail down my face with slow gentle kisses. He moves down to my neck and licks a small circle on it. Anticipation floods me as I realize that he is going to feed from me. I let out a strangled moan as he sinks his teeth into my neck and euphoria takes over.

It takes several minutes of bliss before he retracts his fangs and coolness replaces his mouth. I feel the loss, but am eager to feed as well. I pull him down to me and repeat the process he just finished.

As soon as the blood flows freely, I feel the ecstasy of it. When I finally lick the wound to staunch the bleeding, I’m completely sated.

We must have fallen back asleep at some point during our amazing Moments. The sound of the lock being turned wakes me. At first I panic, thinking someone was going to come in and find us in a compromising position. I pull the covers up over us and cling to Cody as if my life depended on it.

“It’s okay, Callie. No one will come in. They know what we are doing in here. This was our ritual night. We’re just allowed to leave now. I’m sure they are waiting outside to blindfold us again. Why don’t we get ourselves up and dressed. Everyone will want to see us today.”

“Ugh, do we have to? I would rather stay right where we are, just like we are,” I say with a mischievous look on my face.

I feel the rumble of his laugh vibrate through me. “I wish we could, princess. I would like nothing more than to ravish you again, but reality calls.”

I groan, knowing he is right. I suddenly feel a wave of self-consciousness flutter through me as I realize I have to get out of bed naked. Even though I shared my body with Cody last night, it was dark and under the covers. Now the light in the bathroom is on.

It was so much easier to take off our clothes than to put them back on. Humph. Reluctantly, I peel back the covers and climb out of bed. Then I realize that all I have to wear is what I wore in.

I hurry over to the pile of discarded clothing and pull my underwear on. Then I work on getting the dress on, Cody never taking his eyes off me. His eyes flared glowing amber once again and I know he is appreciating the view.

“Come on, it’s your turn. I already feel like we are going to be doing the walk of shame.”

“I guess, but only if you help me button up my shirt. I think you were pretty sexy unbuttoning it last night.”

Now it is my turn to chuckle. Everything with him just feels so natural, even our playful banter. Every second that I’m with him, I think I fall in love a little more if that’s even possible.

Five minutes and many kisses later, we’re ready. Cody slowly opens the door to find two figures standing there. They are the same guards from last night, at least my guy is. He holds up the blindfold and I nod, acknowledging that he is going to put it on me.

I risk one last look at Cody before everything goes black. He pushes through our mental connection and a smile forms on my face.

I love you, princess. I will be over in a few hours to help you pack.

The following minutes proceed like last night. We make our way through the maze of the building and I feel the summer breeze wash over my exposed skin. I inhale deeply and smile.

I’m a woman now. I’m mated to the most amazing man in the whole world. I love him so much. I get to spend the rest of my immortal life with him.

The whole ride home, I can’t stop thinking about Cody. Warmth floods me and an aching in my heart is present. I don’t know if this is my love for him or his love for me. Our thoughts and feelings are now intertwined forever.

We eventually come to a stop and my focus returns to reality. The car door opens and I’m helped to my feet. Soon, I feel fingers untying my blindfold and I sigh in relief. Once it’s off, my eyes adjust to the night and I see my house come into view.

A touch of melancholy fills me as I realize I will be moving tomorrow out of the only house I’ve ever known. I’ll be on my own with Cody. A delicious heat stirs within me and I struggle to keep a blush from creeping into my cheeks.

As soon as I thank my chauffeur, I bound up the front steps and fling the door open in excitement. After scanning my surroundings, I find my parents in the study. Not even bothering to knock, I barge right in.

At first, I’m nervous that they will judge me for what I did last night. Then I remind myself that they did the same thing when they mated and probably still do. Oh gross, I didn’t need that visual at all.

Mom is standing beside my Dad and they appear to be looking over some documents. Both of them look up at me as I shut the door behind me.

“Oh, honey, it’s so good to see you back home,” Mom states.

“Thanks Mom. What are you up to in here?” I ask, trying to steer the conversation away from my mating.

“Your mother and I were just going over some council paperwork. It’s nothing really exciting. Jane and Lana are already up in your room and impatiently awaiting your arrival.”

“Oh, good. I can put them to work helping me pack! I have to be ready for the movers tomorrow.”

“Have fun, dear,” Mom says, dismissing me.

I nod and exit the study, shutting the door behind me. Taking a deep breath, I practically skip upstairs towards my room. I’m absolutely thrilled Jane and Lana are here. I may not be looking forward to the inquisition, but I’m thankful for the support.

I don’t even make it all the way into the room before I’m practically knocked over by Jane and Lana. They throw their arms around me and squeal in delight. Grinning from ear to ear, I return their embrace.

“Okay, before the third degree starts, I need to change. I’ll be right back.”

I hurry towards the closet and place the dress on a hanger. It will always be special to me and I will keep it forever. I pull on a pair of cotton shorts and a tank top. I don’t need to be fancy to pack. I will shower and change before Cody gets here.

They tug me towards the bed and we all sit cross-legged on it. I sigh in resignation for the upcoming, rapid fire questioning.

“You’re my sister now! I can’t believe it. I’ve always wanted a sister. We’re going to have a blast. We can go shopping and watch movies and hang out in the castle. Oh, and you’re a princess who will rule us someday. That’s awesome sauce!”

I chuckle at Lana’s enthusiasm. Whoever mates with her is going to have their hands full. I’m truly excited that she’s the sister I never had, besides Jane. We’re going to be like the three musketeers, I just know it.

I can’t even squeak out a reply before Jane is grilling me.

“How does it feel to be mated? Was Cody amazing? I bet he was. He’s a pretty great catch. Where did they take you? I wonder what it will be like to mate with Chase. Hmm, he’s really hot. I bet it will be unbelievable.”

“I love being mated to Cody. He is my partner in every way. I feel like I was missing a part of myself and now I’m whole. It’s surreal. I wish I knew where they took us. They blindfolded us and locked us in a room.”

“You didn’t answer my question. Was he amazing?”

“Gross! You’re talking about my brother. That is an image I would rather not have.”

“Jane, I didn’t get a chance to thank you for what you did for me. I know I told you, but it needs to be said again. You are the most loyal friend a girl could have. You gave me a life free of the guilt of Chase’s death.”

“I told you, girl. He’s sexy and I would have gone after him that night if you didn’t have dibs. This could have just as easily been me. I think getting to sire him and mate to him is going to be nothing short of a fairytale. I didn’t just do it for you.”

I know she did, but I don’t argue. I’m hopeful he can make her happy. Siring a new vampire creates a special bond in addition to the mating bond. I think they will be alright.

“So, besides giving you the third degree, we’re here to help you pack so you can spend time with Cody later on. See, we are sort of awesome!” Lana explains.

“Who would have guessed I would have such a fabulous sister and totally rockin’ best friend. I really am lucky to have you both. Don’t worry, when I’m ruler, I’ll still be the same Callie.”

Jane snorts and I narrow my eyes at her.

“What’s so funny about what I said? I love you both.”

“It’s not that, Callie. You’ll never be the same again. That doesn’t mean you won’t be an amazing friend, sister and ruler. It just means that you’ll grow up and that’s alright.”

“Thanks, Jane. Now let’s get this place packed up. They must’ve brought these boxes while I was gone. Lana, you can start with the wardrobe boxes and clean out the closet. Jane, you can work on my desk and dresser. I will collect everything else and all my paintings. We should be done in no time.”

They both nod at me and we break off. I turn my speakers on and plug my iPod in. I flip playlists until I find my workout list. We could all use the motivation to get this done quickly. I can’t wait to see Cody.

As I take down my pictures, I feel a touch of sadness. I’m packing up a lifetime of memories and it just doesn’t seem real. I take great care with my paintings and soon my sorrow has bloomed into something more. This is my whole life and it is just being packed up in a series of boxes.

My phone buzzes and I know it’s a text message from Cody. I smile and pull it out of my cotton shorts.

Hey, princess, is everything alright? I already miss you like crazy. I love you and I will see you in a few hours. Xoxo-Cody

I take a minute to respond back before shoving the phone back into my pocket.

I’m just getting sentimental. I hope you like art, because I have a million paintings. I miss you too. Jane and Lana are keeping me company. See you soon! -Callie-xoxo

I can feel his happiness through our bond and take that to mean he will accept my artwork and crazy taste in decorating. I couldn’t love this man any more than I do now.

We’ve just about finished up when I hear a knock on the door. I panic, thinking that it is Cody. I really wanted to shower and change before he got here. Sighing in resignation, I fling the door open to see who it is.

I’m not thrilled to see Chase at the door, but I try to give him a warm smile. He’ll be mated to Jane so I’ll have to get over our past and look towards the future. Chase deserves a clean slate.

“Hey, Chase. Come in. Jane’s just over there.”

“Thanks. And Callie? I’m glad everything worked out the way it did.”

“Me too, Chase. Me too,” I reply sincerely.

I really am glad things ended up the way they are. I get to keep Cody forever and Jane gets her happy ending.

Dark thoughts of the consequences threaten to surface. I don’t want to think about the breeding law or my future stint as ruler. Grinding my teeth, I choke the thoughts down and focus on the here and now.

Chase reaches Jane and sweeps her up in a swoon worthy hug. He lightly kisses her forehead and she giggles. I’ve never seen Jane so happy. Suddenly, all my repercussions seem worth it.

“Alright, Callie, I’ve packed up everything in your desk and dresser. I can’t believe you’re moving to the castle tomorrow. What a bizarre twist of circumstances. Anyhow, I think Chase and I are going to head out.”

“Thanks so much for helping me so I can spend time with Cody.”

“No problem, you’ll be helping me soon enough,” she replies with a mischievous grin.

“So when’s this big change going to happen?”

“The change will be Wednesday at the castle. Alexander is going to oversee everything to insure there are no issues. I’m actually grateful. I don’t want to end up on trial for doing anything wrong.”

“I hear you there. Have fun you two.”

“See you later, Lana.” qct Then she turns to me. “Later babe.”

Lana and I give them a wave and they are gone. The door shuts behind them. It’s quiet for a beat and then Lana speaks up.

“I’ve got most of your closet packed up too. I know you still need to shower and get dressed before my brother comes over, so I’ll follow Jane’s lead. Have fun tonight, Callie.”

She crosses the room and gives me a huge hug. I can’t help but grin.

“Thanks, Lana. I don’t know what I’d do without you guys.”

We break apart and she leaves the same way Jane did. Soon, I’m alone with my thoughts. I look around and realize that my whole life fits into boxes. I feel a little sullen thinking that and quickly change course. I don’t need Cody worrying over nothing.

I hurry to the bathroom and take a shower. I make sure to shave my armpits and my legs so I can wear shorts and a tank. We’re just spending the night in, but he will be staying over.

Excitement fills me even though we are under strict rules tonight. No funny business my Mom says. She normally wouldn’t let him stay over but she gives in because of the bond. It’s hard for us to be apart for long periods of time now.

I throw my hair up in a messy bun and don’t bother to put makeup on. I also don’t want Cody to see me looking like a raccoon in the morning just yet.

I’m just pulling my tank top on when I hear a knock at my door. Barefoot, I pad across the room to open the door. A big goofy grin blossoms as I see Cody. He looks super sexy in his thin, brown tee shirt that leaves nothing to my imagination. His jeans are faded and low slung.

He catches me appraising him and smirks. I blush but he just scoops me up and kisses me. My body is on fire. I feel like flames are licking my skin as I feel his strong arms wrapped around me and his lips on mine.

We finally pull away, breathless. I see his eyes are a warm, glowing, caramel color with flecks of golden brown. I could lose myself in those eyes.

The Moment has passed though. I feel nervous energy coming from Cody and instantly I am on alert.

“Cody, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing at all,” he says as he pulls me to sit on my bed.

He fidgets with my hands for a minute and then looks up at me. My eyes are wide and I’m wondering what the hell could be going on.

Then, Cody pulls out a blue, velvet box out of his pocket. Relief and apprehension simultaneously flow through me. I’m glad it’s nothing bad, but I’m not sure what’s in the box and I don’t absolutely love surprises.

Silently, he hands me the box and I hesitantly flip open the lid. There, lined in blue silk, is a ring. It’s gorgeous. I think I might faint. Where did he get a ring like this?

The ring looks like it’s set in white gold or platinum. It’s a pave set stone with diamonds surrounding it. The center stone is gigantic and, again, I wonder where it came from. He doesn’t let me think about it for long.

“It was my grandma’s ring. She saved it for me to give to my mate, since hers is gone. I know we don’t really get married as vampires since the bonding is so much more intimate but I still wanted a symbol of our eternal love for each other. I want you to look down at that ring on your finger and think of me. I love you, Callie, and I would be honored if you would wear this ring.”

“I’m speechless. I can’t think of anything I would like more. Your grandma must be an amazing woman to deserve this and I will wear it with pride. I love it.”

Cody lets out a breath of relief and I’m glad he is so happy with me. I let him slip the ring on my left ring finger and then I grasp the fabric of his shirt to pull him in for a kiss. The ring feels heavy, a reminder of my promise to be with him for eternity. I sigh and deepen the kiss. Cody is definitely yummy.

I finally let go of his shirt as we pull away from each other. I have balled the fabric into a burst of wrinkles and I wince. We try to straighten them out, but it’s no use. I giggle and Cody just shrugs, his hair falling in his face.

“It’s all good, princess.”

Switching subjects, I turn to take another look around my room. “Can you believe that my entire life is summed up in a series of boxes? It’s so pitiful.”

“I know. I have even fewer boxes than you do. That just means going forward; any stuff we get will be ours instead of yours or mine.”

“Very true, however, you get all of my artwork along with me. I have so many good memories trapped inside my paintings. I don’t think I can part with them.”

“If you painted them, then they’re already special. They’ll look beautiful on our walls.”

He’s always saying sweet things like that. I feel a blush in my cheeks and I lean in for a soft, chaste kiss. He tries to pull me in further and deeper. I want to delve into our kiss and forget about the world around us. I want to taste him, indulge in the feel of his lips pressed against mine.

Too soon, I pull away. I promised my Mom we would behave. Besides, I want to snuggle up and watch a movie with him. It’s been a long couple of days and I could use the downtime.

“Let’s go watch a movie or something. We could watch infomercials for all I care.”

He chuckles and I pull him towards the door. He dutifully follows me downstairs and into the kitchen first. I need some of the blood cocktail. I offer Cody some and he has a glass as well.

Once we’re finished, I guide him towards the informal living room. After switching on the television, I fling myself onto the couch with a sigh. Cody maneuvers himself around me and wraps me in his arms. It feels so good to be cuddling up with Cody again.

We try to watch a movie channel, but there are nothing but old movies on. I settle on the least horrible one and drop the remote to the floor. I don’t really care about watching it anyways.

I shift on the couch until I’m embraced in Cody’s arms. My head rests against his chest and I can hear his heartbeat. My mind wanders and soon I am remembering last night. If Cody could see me, I would be blushing something fierce.

Cody has seen all of me, inside and out. He’s glimpsed a piece of my soul and I can’t imagine having this with anyone else. It’s a good thing we get our happily ever after.

Soon, I feel Cody’s fingers twisting my ring around my finger. The ring. This is the ring that I will forever cherish.

I can’t wait to show it to Lana and Jane. I wonder if Lana has already seen it. They will be so jealous. It is a ring definitely fit for a princess. For once, I feel as special as everyone thinks I am.

“It’s so special, like you are.” I know it’s probably nauseating to watch or listen to us, but I don’t care. Cody is the only one that matters.

He kisses the top of my head and holds me close. “Ah, princess, you are the one bright spot in my life. I love you and I forever will. Eternity isn’t long enough.”

“I love you too.”

The sleepless night we spent together yesterday has worn me out and my eyes droop. Finally, all thought fades away and my eyelids flutter shut. I can hear Cody’s breathing is now steady and even. He has fallen asleep with me in his arms. That’s all the encouragement I need before I relent and let sleep take me.

At some point, I stir. Cody’s breathing is still even and I pull back to study him. Good gravy, he is so sexy. He looks so peaceful with his eyes shut and hair falling in his face. I have this sudden urge to brush his hair back and kiss him, so I do.

He begins to kiss me back and I feel his hands tangle in my hair. My body pushes closer to the hard planes of his. He’s all lean yet muscular. I slide my hands under his shirt and settle them on his chest as our kiss deepens.

I could have stayed like that forever if it hadn’t been for the throat clearing that comes from the doorway. We jump apart and I feel a little guilty. It looked like a lot more than it actually was.

Mom is standing at the door, but she isn’t scowling like I expect her to be. She’s smirking as if she knew what we were up to and expected it. Hmm.

We sit up and I feel the crick in my neck from sleeping on the couch. Even in Cody’s arms, the couch isn’t the most comfortable place we could have slept.

“What time is it?” I ask her.

“It’s time for Cody to go home and get changed. The movers will be there shortly. As for you, the same applies. Grab yourselves a blood cocktail and get going.”

We nod in understanding. Satisfied, she turns and leaves us alone again.

He puts his hands on either side of my face and looks into my eyes lovingly. “I guess it’s time then. I’ll meet you on the other side, Callie.”

“Umm hmm, I’ll be there as soon as they can get my crap packed up. I wonder where they’ll put us once we get there. I’ve never been into any of the personal quarters.”

“Me neither, but I’m sure as the future rulers, ours will be amazing.”

Cody stands up, kisses me on my forehead and guides me into the kitchen. Mom is conspicuously absent so I pour the cocktail in glasses and hand one to him.

We linger longer than necessary, not wanting to part. I have to remind myself that I’ll see him soon and then we won’t be apart again. Our time is coming.

I walk Cody to the door and throw my arms around him. “I’m going to miss you even if it’s just for a little while. It’s really hard to be apart from you.”

He holds me tighter and I can feel his breath as he whispers in my ear. “I’ll miss you too, princess. I hate being apart from you, but it’s only temporary. Tonight, you’re all mine.”

Chills slide down my spine that have nothing to do with the temperature. His words sound like a delicious promise.

Finally, he leaves and I stand there in the foyer. I’m torn between getting ready or showing Mom my ring. Eventually, I decide to get ready and then show Mom the ring while the movers are working.

Do I keep the ring on or take it off while I shower? I’m really not sure. Finally, I go with my gut and leave it on. I don’t think I can bear to take it off my finger. It’s almost as if taking it off will make this whole whirlwind fairytale disappear.

I’m so happy, too happy. Something is bound to go wrong. No one should ever be this happy. I stare down at the ring as I stand in the shower. I can’t believe everything worked out the way it did.

I feel too weird just wearing my casual clothes into the castle, so I opt for a cotton sundress as a compromise. Who knows what could happen once I step into my new home. I skip the jewelry; the ring is more than enough bling.

After stepping into the hallway, I see the movers making their way to my room. I think they have been waiting for me to finish. They all nod in respect as they pass me on the stairs. I don’t think I’ll ever get used to that.

I find my Mom in the sitting room reading a book. She sets it down when she sees me and smiles.

“You look very pretty, dear. Are you excited?”

“I’m anxious more than anything. Without knowing what to expect, it lead my mind to all kinds of conclusions.”

“You’ll be fine. I happen to think you and Cody will be great rulers and I’m so proud of you and the way you’ve handled all this change.”

“Thanks, Mom. Anyways, I actually came down here to show you something.”

I lift up my left hand and shove it in front of her so she can see the ring. Her mouth drops open and she pulls my hand closer to examine the large diamond.

“Oh, Callie, this is gorgeous. Cody is a very thoughtful young man. You got lucky with him, honey.”

“It’s his grandma’s ring. She wanted us to have it. I love it and I love Cody.”

“Being true mates is a powerful thing. It’s amazing and I only wish I could have found that kind of love. Your Dad and I are very happy, but we were never true mates like you and Cody are. You two are blessed.”

All this serious talk is making me think about how much I’m going to miss her when I’m gone. It’s not like I’ll never see her, but I have no idea what I’m in for when I leave here. I throw my arms around her in a giant hug and squeeze her tight.

“I’m going to miss you, Mom.”

“I’ll miss you too. Now before we get out of hand here, you should probably get going. The movers are just about finished. They were really fast.”

“It seems like it was too fast. I guess I’m off to my new home as princess in the castle. Good golly that sounds weird.”

“Goodbye, princess,” my Mom says with a wink.

I grab my purse and keys before taking one last look around me. My nerves are in knots as I step out into the night to get into my car. It feels weird driving my car to the castle. Last time I was there, I was in a dungeon jail cell. I can only hope those memories will be replaced by more pleasant ones.

Once I’m safely parked, a person comes out to drive my car to its very own parking garage. Wow. This is surreal. I watch as a butler opens the door for me and ushers me into the foyer.

A woman greets me there and then whisks me away. We move down a hallway on the east side of the castle and finally stop in front of a set of large arched doors. I take a deep breath as she opens the doors and I step inside.

Cody is standing by the window, looking out and I forget about everything and everyone around me. I run to him and throw my arms around his neck. A huge grin breaks out on his face and he gives me an earthshattering kiss that goes all the way to my toes.

“Welcome home, princess.”

First, I would like to thank those of you who took a chance on my book.  I hope you enjoyed it.  It’s always appreciated if you could spread the word by leaving a review on the website you purchased this from.

I would also like to thank my editor at Final Edits for doing a fabulous job.  She helped me polish the final project into something I’m proud of.  Parajunkee Designs did an amazing job on the cover and Once Upon a Time Covers made some pretty awesome chapter headings.

Thank you to my family for not pushing me back into the traditional job world.  I’m much happier chasing dreams!  My husband has been nothing but supportive on this journey and I love him more every day.

Lastly, thanks to all the bloggers and other authors that I’ve met along the way in this indie industry.  It is a great community and I’m proud to be a part of it.

I’m a biologist turned writer.  I write YA/NA paranormal romance books mainly.  I’m the author of Devour and have several more books scheduled to come out later in 2013. I book blog for fun.  I also have a strong addiction to caffeine and fruit snacks.  You can find me in Tennessee with my husband and two Italian greyhounds.

If you ask anyone, I’m a total fangirl!  I love the entertainment industry.  I love Revenge and the Vampire Diaries on television.  My favorite movies are Elektra and P.S. I Love You.  I have a definite weakness for Tim Burton movies too. I’m beyond a huge fangirl for Shakira, both her English and Spanish music; Jack’s Mannequin comes in a close second.   I have too many favorite authors to list, but Kelley Armstrong and Rachel Vincent are two of them.  I’ve read all their books.

1. When Your Heart Stops Beating- Plus 44

2. The State of Dreaming- Marina and the Diamonds

3. Waking Up- One Republic

4. All Good Things- Mandy Moore

5. A Part of Me- Katy Perry

6. Fleurs Du Mal- Sarah Brightman

7. When It All Falls Apart- The Veronicas

8. These Times- Safety Suit

9. They Can’t If You Don’t Let Them- A Fine Frenzy

10. Ooh Love- Charlotte Sometimes

11. Original Love- Cassidee Pope

12. Timeless- The Airborne Toxic Event

13. Give Me Love- Ed Sheeran

14. Never Let Me Go- Florence and the Machine

15. Rumor Has It- Adele

16. Love Story- Taylor Swift

17. Amber Waves- Erin McCarley

18. Leave the Pieces- The Wreckers

19. Better Dig Two- The Band Perry

20. I Love You- Avril Lavigne

21. Zero Gravity- Kerli

Dancing with Death

Murders have plagued the woods in the past, making them a place of fear. Eighteen year old Wendy and her friends become worried when a new string of murders come to their high school.

After a horrible car accident, Wendy returns to school, going from wallflower to popular overnight. Suddenly she is the center of attention, paying more attention to guys and clothes. Things are heating up for Wendy with more than one guy vying for her affections.

As the murderer edges closer to Wendy she realizes things are changing. She is afflicted with nightmares that are all too real and she herself is undergoing unnatural changes. Learning the truth about her past, could be the key to saving her future.

Recommended for older teens and new adults due to sexual situations.

Table of Contents

- Copyright
- Devour
- Prologue Present day
- Chapter 1
- Chapter 2
- Chapter 3
- Chapter 4
- Chapter 5
- Chapter 6
- Chapter 7
- Chapter 8
- Chapter 9
- Chapter 10
- Chapter 11
- Chapter 12
- Chapter 13
- Chapter 14
- Chapter 15
- Chapter 16
- Chapter 17
- Chapter 18
- Chapter 19
- Chapter 20
- Chapter 21
- Chapter 22
- Chapter 23
- Chapter 24
- Chapter 25
- Acknowledgements
- About the author
- Devour playlist
- Other books by the author