8 The Devil's Golden Invitation

Legaxy 

Saturday.

I know I should have listened to my subconscious mind when she told me to stay in bed…

Get ourselves to rest a little longer, letting the cold weather engulfed us in a comforting hug, and allowing our skin to appreciate the soft sheets — both coming from the Queen size mattress and green plush pillows — a little better.

Not to mention, I am off today. So it should be enough reason to pin me down to bed and go back to that peaceful slumber some more.

Yet, I didn't.

Instead, and for some anonymous energy, I slowly got up from the comfort and tranquility of my bed — just around 6:30 am, and began stretching my stiff limbs. Then, just like a shot of lightning bolt, the overwhelming feeling of anxiety kicked in.

And that's when I remembered Seth's promise, which happens to be due today...

Obviously, my initial emotion for that sudden recollection was relief. Like hooray! I will finally get to hear the answers that I have been PATIENTLY waiting for —

Wait, hold up... Did I say PATIENTLY? 

Well, about that — it's not entirely true...

Actually, I've been dying to know the reason behind the guarding job — the why me and why Seth typical questions bombarding my brain — that it honestly got me to a point where I became paranoid about my safety.

There were days when I cautiously eat my meals at work, thinking that maybe the food was poisoned. Then, there were times when I constantly turn my head to check my surroundings if there were any signs of threat. Let's not forget how I became fully attentive to whom I talk to, thinking that maybe it was an imposter and not the real person I knew.

And to think that, that was only four days ago…

So yeah, you can imagine how glad I am that the time had come for Seth to actually spill the beans — if this took longer than it should have, I don't think my sanity could take it anymore.

May have gone crazy if the waiting game continues…

Aside from that, I was also hoping — by spilling out the truth tonight — to resolve the communication barrier issue that came upon our family, which I may say, was starting to bother and annoy me to the core.

You see, we are an open family. Our bond revolves mostly around communication; We don't hide things from each other, rather, we share and express freely — especially, our problems and secrets.

So when Seth took that part out of my daily existence for the sake of his loyalty — bringing me to change topic after topic whenever our parents asked us about our weird behavior, or me having to avoid simple discussions that included ‘him’ and his new ‘role’ in the security forces — made me feel not just terrible about myself, but also completely guilty.

I know, I should never question Seth's ways and reasons — let's remember the ‘Royal Promise’, shall we — for not informing everybody, but the way he tackled this case and made me lie to our parents for four straight days brought doubt to my mind. His fairness on judgment when it comes to family matters, particularly with me — whom I should remind him was always the victim here, were not really that fair anymore.

He was becoming selfish… or genuinely, afraid — I don't know which emotion was stronger at the moment.

Nonetheless, the overall point here is, I don't like being kept in the dark for far too long. And this situation with Seth and his secret was keeping me there, FOR FAR TOO LONG.

I need to get out...

So, to distract myself from the undeniable tension and guilt I was feeling right now, I went down to the kitchen and prepared breakfast for the family — well, for Mum, Dad, and me to be exact. 

As mentioned before, my brothers lived at the palace. Seth, because of the guarding obligation, came back to live with us. However, he doesn't really stay here that long and keeps on returning to the castle since his other duty calls — mostly juvenile training sessions and filing of security reports.

Anyway, back to the original intention; prepping food for the gang...

Mum loves bacon and Dad loves eggs, so I concluded on cooking scrambled eggs and honey-flavored bacon for the two of them. As for me, I only added toast since I love some warm bread in the morning. Also, a good excuse for using that imported butter and cheese Mum kept on hiding in the pantry chiller.

Regardless of the reasons, I readied everything I needed and started cooking.

It didn't take me that long to complete the menu and when I finally heard Mum and Dad descending from their room upstairs — guessing all dressed up and ready to go, there was already food on the table. 

Of course, at first, they didn't notice me or the meal I have prepared since they were on the other side of the house. However, their senses were more heightened than me so I know they will eventually smell the food.

I was about done washing the pan I had used in cooking the eggs and bacon when they finally smell it. I heard them literally ending their lively conversation and within that second — while I placed the utensil on a drying rack, both were hastily shuffling towards the dining room like there was fire or an emergency.

Since our home was a closed floor plan and Mum wanting to have some kind of change in the house, my parents decided to have the kitchen and the dining room intricately designed to function as a one-room — no walls to divide each space. That's why, when Mum and Dad entered the big room from the living space, they easily locate where I was.

And boy they look shocked upon seeing me there — most especially, standing in the kitchen station...

You see, aside from not letting me drive, they don't let me cook — unless Mum was there to direct me. They do let me clean the house, wash the dishes and do some laundry without supervision, but that's about it. 

The rest of the household chores were either tricky, difficult, or dangerous for me — as per my family…

“Good morning.” I finally greeted, ignoring their alarmed gapes as I took a carton of milk from the refrigerator.

“Good morning too baby.” Mum greeted back and I caught sight of her scrutinizing the cooked food on the dining table. Then, her green eyes widened in horror upon realizing what I just did, “You know, you should have called me…” She uttered as she walked slowly inside the dining space. 

I just smiled softly at her. 

“Mama, it's no biggie... Come and eat, before you go.” I announced as I placed the milk on the center of the glass table, “You too, Papa.” I added, stopping Dad from his attempt at sneaking out the door. 

Dad laughed nervously after being caught. Then, with a little tug from me, both of them sat down around the table — kinda awkward at the moment. 

Can't blame them for that behavior though, since they served both the mixed Clan and the Hue Kingdom their whole life. So, being cared for like this — especially by their daughter is truly an unusual but blissful feeling. 

I can tell because I saw both of them beaming with happiness and gratitude at me...

Then, with the uneasy atmosphere slowly fading, Mum and Dad got comfortable and both started eating the food peacefully. 

Out of the blue, Dad spoke — breaking the hushed atmosphere of the calm room. 

“Should I be concerned now, Princess?” He asked, taking a bite of his toast then.

I shot him a perplexed look.

“Concern about what, Papa?”

“Well, it's Saturday. It's your usual day off from work and” — finally swallowed his chewed-up toast — “I know your gigs occur only at night. It's past 7 am and your fully awake already, Princess... Mind telling me why?” Dad asked, taking a mouthful of eggs now. 

I paused and slowly bit my lip, hesitant at the idea of telling them anything. Especially, the truth regarding what was bothering me — Seth and the promise — for it could lead to secret after secret to unfold… and I can't risk that.

Should I lie again, then?

But, I don't want to. It hurts to see my parents believing such pathetic excuses coming from me.

‘Though, this will be the last... Seth will talk tonight.’ I reminded myself.

So with an internal sigh of defeat, and as hard as it can be, I decided to lie once more. Still, just to sound authentic, I mixed a few bits of truth in it…

“I just... wanna make sure... you two don't skip breakfast this time.” I replied, my teeth gritted a little, “You both tend to leave for work with an empty stomach, and that's not good for beings with busy schedules. I just — I had to do something about it, alright... took the time to cook for the both of you.” I mumbled and hurriedly hide my discomfort from lying by taking a huge bite of my buttered toast. 

Dad became silent then.

I panic and returned my gaze at his face. 

Thankfully, he looked pleased with the answer for he was smiling and his crystal blue eyes were just sparkling out of pure admiration at me.

Mum, on the other hand, glowed from joy and adoration at me as a smile appeared on her beautiful face as well.

Okay, it worked. But damn, lying hurts — it's like being punched in the chest...

Seth better tell the truth tonight, or I swear I will do it myself. Brother or not, but this is our parents and siblings — this is family, and they deserve to know as soon as possible.

“Oh, our sweet baby.” Mum finally gushed out softly, giving me a side hug. “But seriously child, you shouldn't have done this... I mean it.” Her voice turned serious and her expression, as she freed herself from the embrace, was uneasy, “What if you burned your skin or get a cut from a knife or worst, get injured from slipping in this tiled floor?” She hysterically numerate.

I could only groan.

“Mama, it's fine,” I swore — hating the overprotective tone. “I could handle myself with the simple task of cooking. It's far safer than the driving lessons anyway —” 

Mum gasped, much in a dramatic manner.

“Legaxy Hailey Dyme, are you trying to say that you rather choose to be injured by a kitchen accident than a car wreck?” She interrupted.

“No, no no it's not like that Mama.” I whined with eyes wide open, “All I'm trying to say here is that I'm already old and independent... I definitely know what I am doing. Sure it's not easy, and maybe I will need your assistance” — I hold her hand which was resting on her lap — “on some other things but this, this is a small task Ma... You can trust me on this.” I affirmed, encouraging a smile at her.

She stared at my eyes for a moment before letting out a defeated sigh.

“I know, I know. But it's just… I can't, Lily. You are” — she moved her hand so it is on top of mine and squeezed it — “our only daughter. It's normal for us, for me especially, to be protective of you. Call me an aggressive Mama Bear or an overreacting Mother, but I will do whatever I know what's best for you. Either way, you'll have to accept that. Know that I'm not changing and so as your Dad or your brothers... You're our priority, Legaxy.” Mum declared, now withdrawing her hand from me and placed it on the table.

Listening to that, I wanted to groan once again and protest my defiance when Dad interjected.

“You do realize that Legaxy has a point too, Margaret.” Dad carefully took one of Mum's hands and placed it on his large chest — a habit, “My love, do remember she is her very own person. She can make her own decisions without the need for our help. If she ever did fail or made a mistake, then it will be our time to assist her. We can't just always hold her hands and yank her back to her feet every time she falls. We need to learn to let her go too, for her to learn to walk freely...” He explained while lovingly stroking Mum's hands.

Mum eyed Dad for a moment and knowing Dad was right, she only nodded her response.

I, on the other hand, was beginning to believe that Dad was defending me from Mum's lecture a while ago but turns out, he was more of neutralizing the situation as he switches his attention from Mum to me.

“Nonetheless, Princess,” — He shot me a pointed look — “your Mom is right. We will not change our ways in terms of keeping you safe. You are our number one priority. That's why, all I'm asking — on behalf of everybody in this family, is for you to stay away from danger. May it be the kitchen work, or a car ride, or even the simplest of walking around this home... I wanted you to be always cautious. And like what your Mum had said, you're our only daughter. We can't afford to lose you, may it be to a serious tragedy or the clumsiest of all misfortunes... We want you healthy and whole. Do you understand, little Lily?” He asked, almost sounding like a plea. 

Oh boy, not this kind of drama again — they always win with this one...

I was about to respond when our thunder of a doorbell rang. I, being close to the hallway leading to our front door, excused myself and quickly ran to answer it. 

When our arc-style black door was in sight and a couple of meters away from me, I slowed my running and then tip-toed the rest. As I reached the thick door, I didn't open it immediately. Not to be rude, but to be careful actually — like Dad had mentioned a while ago.

Why?

News broke out yesterday about rogue vampires and black witches roaming around town again, hunting and killing innocent civilians either for food or sacrifices. 

So, instead of my usual move of carelessly opening the door and greet the person on the other side, I cautiously peeked through the door's peephole. 

Black clothing and pale skin…

A vampire, for sure. But what's it doing here?

I took another glance and search for any signs indicating he was a rogue predator. Thankfully, he was a clean one; no wrinkled skin, no ugly marks, no long dirty nails, and hopefully, no dark teeth and pure blood-red irises.

Yet, still unsure of its purpose, I slowly unlocked our front door and took another peek through the crack. To my instant relief, it was just Cayden — our clan's messenger, standing bored on our front porch.

Immediately, I fully opened our front door.

Upon seeing me, he gracefully straightened up while a wicked smile slowly spread across his smooth, pale white face. 

“What a lovely morning it is,” he announced, taking off his hat — his long blonde hair was tied up in a messy bun. “Hello, Ms. Dyme.” He greeted in a flirtatious tone. 

Great, a flirting Vampire in the morning... And here I thought, rogue vampires and black witches were far more formidable.

I just raised an eyebrow at him, suggesting I was in an unpleasant mood. Sadly, he didn't notice that since his eyes found it's way to my body; busy prowling at it.

Damn it!

Remind me the reason why I didn't change my sexy sleeping wear; composing of a matching white silk lace halter top and cami shorts, into a more conservative attire when I had the chance — Oh yeah, because I was completely distracted by the upcoming event tonight…

‘Stupid, stupid Legaxy.’ I internally scolded myself.

“Cayden.” I finally acknowledged him — coldly if I may add, while covering my body with my free arm in a somewhat, discreet way.

He noticed that but it didn't bother him at all... No, actually the idiot male vampire finds it amusing that his infamous smile widened.

I couldn't help but rolled my eyes out of annoyance.

“Mind telling me why I should NOT slam this freaking door, right in front of your face by now?” I inquired, my other hand which was resting on the doorknob was itching to move.

Cayden snickered.

“Oh, still a feisty woman, I see...” He muttered and leaned on the door, completely dominating me with his full six-foot height, “You know, I love difficult and tough women in the morning. Makes me want to EAT. THEM. RAW.” He teased, quickly licking his teeth.

Instead of laughing, and feeling very brave at the second, I stepped a little closer at him — not disturbed by his intimidating height — and shot the bothersome Vampire my signature cold look; the aloof and serious stare.

“10 seconds, Cayden. Talk, NOW.” I warned, crossing my arms.

The mischievous vampire loved the motion that he opposed me and here we are, commencing a staring contest with each other.

“Or what, Dyme?” He challenged while cocking his head to one side, “Know that this door can't stand a chance. We, vampires, are built to break down mountains woman, so this” — points a thumb at the door — “barrier you trust so much, is not even enough to cause harm to me... I might just leave a dent here instead.” He then smirks — a naughty kind of smirk.

I swear, I almost swing a fist at him — wanting to wipe that smug expression on his face. Though, I quickly reminded myself to stay calm and be more in control of myself because I am more mature than this — I'm more steady and clever than this.

So, I proceeded to the countdown…

When the ten-second ended and me about to do the promise of closing the heavy oak-door on the Vampire's pleased face, I abruptly halted — caught sight of a gold envelope shimmering on Cayden's black blazer suit's pocket.

I instantly knew what that was — a VIP invitation to the Red Moon ball. 

Cayden, noticing my pause, blinked. Then, his eyes followed my line of sight, and seeing I was staring at the invitation on his suit's pocket, his face beamed.

“Seems like you have an important message to give us.” I pointed out after the sudden silence — gone was the madwoman.

Cayden, knowing what I meant, took the envelope out from his pocket and playfully waved it in front of me.

“Ah, this...” He started, currently displaying the card in the air, “I remember now, I was sent here to give this to you — specifically, if I may add. So yeah, you could say that it is an important, YET very interesting message…” He then taps the card on his lips, another smirk slowly forming in there.

“And?” I demanded, raising an eyebrow at him.

“And? Well,” — with one swift motion, he closed the gap between us, the card is back on his suit's pocket — “Would you like to know, pretty kitten?” He asked while staring deeply into my eyes — his dark brown eyes were changing into a luminous red, like a ruby gem under a full moon night.

Having been with the clan for three years now, I already know WHO has WHAT special abilities, especially those who are strong and dangerous in the society — which I am happy to be aware of. So, when I saw that glowing eyes from Cayden, I already knew what it can do. 

So thankful I'm immune to it — Just like I said before, I don't know how was it possible to be not affected by any of these magic revolving around me, in the first place, but I sure am grateful about it — or else, I'll be mythical food in a flash. 

“You know I can't be hypnotized, right?” I finally uttered, a bit enraged by the proximity that we have.

Cayden, discovering my resistance to his enchantment, jerk back from me like I burned him and frowned — his eyes instantly changed back to their normal color. Surprisingly though, instead of contemplating on it, he just gave out a dark laugh after a long pause while further stepping back from me — giving me that much-needed space.

I didn't intervene him, though I did shot him a death glare which he, in return, grinned at.

“Of course, you are not.” He finally mumbled, after letting out a deep sigh of disappointment — maybe because of the way his attempt goes. “You know Dyme, you are not like any other human girls I enjoy playing with. You have so much fire in you,” — his eyes instantly flashed red again and started ogling at me — “so much courage… so much of the control that it's fucking sexy.” He hoarsely murmured, swallowing hard then. 

I simply dismissed his discomfort with another one of my eye rolls — not minding the hunger I see in those red irises.

“May I?” I asked as I reached out for the invitation in his pocket, clearly annoyed and impatient now. 

He must have heard the tone and began chuckling at me.

“That's surprisingly the third son's temper. I wonder how you get that from him knowing that…”

“It does not matter, Cayden Smith. Just give me the damn card and leave!” I snapped.

“Okay, okay. Calm down now, tiger...” He amusingly said as he handed me the glittering envelope. Then, at that second, his crooked smile returned.

I ignored that.

“Such wonders, truly you are...” He spoke softly now, “I hope the devils were right about you… that you are worth every VIP invite combined.” He added, much in a whisper.

Still, I heard it that I snapped my full attention back at him.

“Devils? VIP Invite? What are you talking about?” I questioned with a wrinkled forehead.

“Oh, nothing babe.” He winked at me. Then, as obvious as it was, his attention went back to my exposed skin — lusting at it again.

My jaw ticked out of irritation but still, I tried my best to dismiss the evil leer...

“Thank you,” I managed to let out.

“My very pleasure.” He replied and I caught him moving closer to me once again — I stilled. “Remember to dress pretty and see you soon, Legaxy Hailey Dyme.” He whispered huskily in my ear. 

He steps back again from me, puts his hat back on, tipped it playfully at me, then shot me another wink and left. His moves were so graceful and well-executed at that moment, that it almost felt like dancing rather than normal gestures, and honestly, I envied it.

I'm a clumsy lady, so witnessing what real elegance means through that foolish of a vampire made the woman in me felt ashamed...

Now, my overwhelming urge to punch that crazy vampire doubled — not caring if I was going to act unladylike at the moment.

Thankfully, Cayden didn't bother to annoy me further and as he faded in a distance — moving just like the wind, I felt a sudden shiver run down my spine...

I don't know if it was because of the aftermath of losing that confidence to finally give in to fear, or just the fact that Cayden addressed me by my full name — which, by the way, is only known by my family...

OR possibly because of the indirect remark the vampire messenger had made regarding me, about to attend the Red Moon Ball — The same matching ball I have mentioned before, that is intended for Vampires and Witches ONLY...

Oh, now that I thought about it, the last part seemed reasonable enough...

Wait! Hold that thought; That. Doesn't. Sound. Good.