Thirteen - Vanadine

Nerves jangled as he sat in the taxi. His proximity to her was driving him insane with the need to touch her, to hold her and never let go. Yet the more rational part of him still overrode his needs, constantly reminding him he was dangerous, his darker side just seconds from being free at any point. Even so he could feel the darkness had abated, retreated farther back into his psyche and a hope sprung up in him.

Might it be because of her? He wondered as lights flashed into his eyes. Could it be that being near her forces the darkness back?

Wishful thinking. Another part of him said. That is what you wish to believe, therefore that is why you feel the darkness has retreated.

Vanadine tried to ignore the savage voice as they took the turn towards the centre, the darkness almost swallowing everything but what the headlights revealed.

“Thirty quid, gov,” the driver said when they reached the building.

Vanadine handed him some notes without counting and opened the door.

“Hold up, mate, y