I awoke the following morning, my dry tongue practically stuck to the roof of my mouth, not being able to find one drop of saliva. Then I felt the thudding of my head, the consequence of all the red wine I drank last night. I sat on the edge of my bed trying to get my bearings as I felt like my whole body was swaying on its own accord. I pushed myself up off the bed and stumbled like a deer across the floor, when I looked down at myself to see I was only wearing my underwear. That’s when I vaguely remembered pulling my dress and shoes off last night and just flopping onto my bed.
Just as I was scrambling to get my pyjama’s on, I could hear voices coming from outside my room. I tiptoed over to the door and pressed my ear against it, my mouth still dry like sandpaper and my throat itching to be drenched with water. But as always, my curiosity was too stubborn to move away from the door.
“Where did you find it?”
Two days later: When I first opened my drapes this morning, my heart leapt with joy as the brightness of the fresh fallen snow covered the grass and treetops of the palace gardens and the forest. But that smile I had soon vanished, because for the first time in my life, I wouldn’t be able to go out for that winter snow walk or do any of the things I love most this time of year. Me and Talon ate our breakfast as usual as he scoured through a black leather book and once I was done eating, I found myself standing at the large window, looking out and thinking of all that I’d be doing if I was at home. My mum would always bring out the fluffy woollen blankets and drape them on the couch, she’d buy us all new slippers and thick robes. If there were ever children playing a snowball fight, I wouldn’t hesitate to join in on the fun. Whatever scraps of food we had, I’d leave them all over our yard and walk to the bottom of the hills for the animals that were in desperate search of food
“I hear you went outside today in the gardens!” Michelle said with a quizzical brow after I told her of my request for bird seed. Talon had asked me to inform her as both she and Stuart were head of the kitchen and supplies. Anything requested, went through them to order. I did, with Talon and I think four others that were just guarding or something, but it was nice. It felt good to be outside of these walls for once!”. “So, does this mean we’ll see more of you? It feels like you’re always hiding away in Talon’s suite”. “Mmm, we’ll see. As much as I’m getting to know everyone a bit better, there’s still a lot of it that feels….. well….. surreal! You know? I still feel like I’m trying to wrap my head around this whole different version of my life, and everything I ever knew and was taught”. “Yes, I do know, and I also know it takes time to find your feet and your place here. I didn’t mean to rush you. I’ve just been here for so long now I forget what it was first like.
Kyans POV: One week later. I was supposed to be researching more into the dagger that was found, yet here I am staring out the window at her, like a weird, perverted stalker! I was more intrigued at how she managed to get my father out to the gardens for the second time. He always seemed to find more peace in his quarters, but out there… he was smiling, he looked calm, he even seemed to be enjoying himself as she handed him another bird feeder to hang in a nearby tree. It seemed like a ridiculous thing to do, but also just… warming! Something so simple, something we’ve never once done before. Now seeing her do it, it just seems so logical and humble to give the little creatures a helping hand. I watched as her hair slightly waved whenever there was a gentle breeze, and I could hear her laugh and see her smile whilst she looked so at ease with my father. There was no hesitation from her as she took hold of his arm, no wariness or fear. Every time she laughed, it awakened my
Ellie's POV: I sat comfortably on the window shelf with the cushions tucked behind my back. This spot right here in the library window, was now my favourite place to be in this castle. I had a beautiful view of the snowy garden and the treetops. I could watch the birds hopping about just outside on the window ledge and the sun shone through the glass every time it managed to find a gap in between the murky clouds. Flipping another page on Emma’s journal, I was intrigued to know what else she had said about Maggie, I just had this sense of wanting to get to know her and the rest of them through Emma’s eyes. The first human to be their guest here. “Day 29, Dearest journal, I come with more unexpected news. I have spent the day under Maggie’s care and care for me she did, just so. I have eaten, I have bathed, I have seen more of this incredible place. The sheer size of it is rather impressive, the halls and pathways seem endless and yet, I know the doors in which I can ope
Four days later: “So, you think we need a grand fireplace?” Talon asked with a grin as we walked down into the main hall. “Well, it’s a very big room. I think a fireplace would look cosy. I was just making a suggestion!” I smiled back after I had made some small comment this morning about what would look nice in the main hall. “Should I put you on decorating committee?” “There’s a committee? Not surprised with the size of this place!” I replied playfully as I looped my arm through his. “Well, when I say committee, I mean whoever can be bothered to task themselves with decorating. I don’t even recall the last time it was seen to”. “So, there’s no one person who updates it?” “I think it’s the maids?” He said, looking thoughtfully with a chuckle. “I am glad you’ve finally agreed to join in on the dinner time meal. It would be good for you to get to know the other lodgers”. “Lodgers? I thought they were family?” “Well, if you take into account how long we’ve
I sat in the quiet of the library after last night's commotion, deciding to give Talon some space in his own quarters. He told me this morning that his friend was ok and on the mend, that luckily Kiko, Drew and Mal had got to him before he bled out, but I could see so much worry etched onto his face. “Day 37 Dear journal, yesterday I had a longer tour of this place by a young woman called Lulu. She, too, is a vampire, of course. She was sweet and only seventeen, not much younger than I. She spoke of a man she is in love with, apparently he is to join her here to live. When she spoke of him, I could see her endearment and longing for him. The more time I am here, the more it confuses me. For so long I believed this species to be blood thirsty monsters, fearless, incapable of any emotion or understanding of life. But I’ve seen them, I’ve witnessed with my own eyes that they know of laughter, love, respect and the need to protect one another. With each day I learn something n
Kyan's POV: One week later. It’s been a constant irritation the last few days. Ever since Hyvan was attacked and father held a meeting with the rest of our residents, everyone has been on edge, and I’ve lost count of the times Ellie has had to defend herself against Lyra and Zekan’s accusations. Don’t get me wrong, I can see their point! I mean, she is human after all, and it's rare we ever have their kind that can be trusted in our home and it's not as if she came willingly. I can feel a part of me really hoping she isn’t like the rest of them. I shouldn’t give a shit really, apart from the betrayal it would be against my father after his kindness toward her, but deep down I knew that’s not the only reason I’d be pissed! Her scent is no longer as strong as it was, its more of a familiar and calm aura, but one that still seems to pull me in whenever she’s around along with her smile. She can’t be a part of this, she just can’t! The thoughts whirled through my head and I felt my
Ellie's POV: I sat in Talon’s quarters as he gave me a tight hug with Kiko standing by. This was the first time I had ever really met her and already I felt safe around her. Not only did she get me away from the hunters within seconds, but when another arrow was fired from our right, she twisted herself around, putting herself in its firing line in order to protect me! Luckily, she was fast enough for it to miss us both. But even as she was trying to get us out of there, she still took a moment to ask if I was ok, whilst she was dashing us both through the forest. Even when we reached the main hall, to Talon, who was stood anxiously waiting, she insisted on coming with us to his quarters, noting that she could see my legs were shaking from the adrenaline rush and wanted to stick around in case I fainted or felt dizzy. “I mean you were literally shot at… twice!” She commented when I told her I’d be ok. Suddenly, one of the doors flung open and in rushed Kyan, who didn’t
I woke up early, the birds outside my window tweeting away as the sun was beginning to rise. I could already hear Talon in the next room rummaging around and I knew we weren’t the only ones awake. Everyone would now be getting out of bed to prepare themselves for the day ahead. I quickly put on all of my clothes I had chosen to wear whilst we hid in the tunnels. I knew it would be cold down there, so my three layers of tops and jumpers would hopefully keep me warm enough. I tied back my hair and clicked open my bedroom door, to see Talon putting away a handful of papers in a big black folder. “Good morning Ellie, you’re ready to go?” “Yes, what are you doing?” I asked as I watched him neatly place the folder on the main table. “Just getting things in order, in case I don’t make it back”. He said so calmly as if he didn’t realise exactly what his words meant. “You WILL make it back, Talon, I know you will”. I tried to reassure him and myself, even though doubt was ma
“You’re quick” Del said as he walked back across the mats, “But you’ll need to be quicker”.I bent over leaning my hands on my legs as I tried to catch my breath, I had so much sweat forming all over my body, even my pulled back hair was wet! “I’m being as quick as I can!” I told him in annoyance. “You do have an advantage, in case you’ve forgotten”. “If you find it hard now, how are you going to defend yourself against rogues? He asked with a frown.“I’ll just have to do as best as I can, Del”. “I don’t think you’re at your best, Ell’s, and so far I’ve taken it pretty easy on you!” “Easy? You call that easy?”. “Del, let her have a break!” Kiko suggested as she watched our training. “She looks like she’s about to topple over!” “Fine!” He slightly eased up. “Get some water, then we’ll go again!” “Fuck!” I said as my chest heaved, trying to catch my breath. I dragged myself over to the bench and drank what was left of my water.“She’s improved a lot, Del. If we go too hard she won
I sat at the table in the main hall with Del and Kiko as we decided to take an extra long break in between training. Kiko was telling Del about my improvements, that I had been able to floor her more often than not and, with a cheeky grin, Del looked at me. “How about I come on in these training sessions, see if you can knock me down?” “Yea, sounds good to me!” I said confidently with a shrug.“Del!” Kiko groaned. "I’m trying to build her up so don’t be too full on." “I won’t, I won’t! I’ll try to take it easy. Don’t worry Ellie, I won’t be too hard on you!” he said with a playful wink.“Bring it on!” I replied, feeling competitive.“You think you can take me down that easily?” He said with a cocky smile.“I think you’re scared I’ll be able to!” I shot back at him.“Ooooh” Kiko cooed, chuckling. “Del, you’re not going to back down are you? But you can if you’re too afraid!” She joined in with goading him.“Alright, alright girls! I know what you’re doing. But I’ll join in, don’t you
Ellie’s POV:I opened my eyes to see Kyan already awake looking back at me and my whole body fuzzed as I looked dreamily into his eyes.“Good morning”. He whispered.“Good morning”. I said with a little smile and a little wish that we could just stay like this.“Did you sleep ok?”“I did”. I nodded against my pillow. “Thank you for staying here, I hope you got some sleep too”. “I did, don’t worry. In fact, it’s probably one of the best nights’ sleep I’ve had in a while”. “Me too”. I grinned and my stomach flipped when he gave me one of his own right back.“I’m sure you didn’t expect to be back here again”.“I wanted to come back at some point. I would have always wanted to come back, I just didn’t think it would be so soon. I was only gone a day and now I’m back already and you all have to put up with me again”. I smiled with a chuckle, trying to lighten how heavy my heart was feeling.“No, we’re always happy to have you here Ellie”. “Wow Kyan, you’ve gotten softer, carry on like t
Kyan's POV:“FATHER!” I shouted as soon as the castle doors were opened. I set Ellie down on the edge of the table as I quickly scanned her for any injuries. But when my eyes clocked the red palm mark on her cheek, my stomach lurched, and my throat let out an unvoluntary growl.Father came to the balcony and with one look at Ellie, he sped down the stairs and stopped right in front of her with a furious look. “What happened??” He asked in demand for an answer.“Two rogues got into her house and tried to take her. We managed to ambush them once they crossed into the forest”. I informed him.“What?” He asked as his eyes widened and his mouth turned into a scowl as he looked back at Ellie. “Did they attack Bluebay?” “No”. She replied quietly and I could see her trying to gulp through her nerves. “At least… I don’t think so”. “No, we were near the border, nothing happened!”. Zekan informed them both.“How did they get in?” Father asked her.“Through the yard doors, it was boarded up, bu
My legs were tired, and my brain felt fried. I had spent hours last night doing my resume and printing numerous copies. I had headed out first thing this morning to hand deliver them, but finding an open position I could fill was more difficult than I’d hoped. I cycled from building to building, streets and blocks. I had gotten to the point where I practically pleaded for them to notify me of any positions available…. At this rate, I would be happy to be an errand girl or a janitor if it meant I’d have some wages for the time being! Out of the fifty copies I made, only five got handed in and I still didn’t know where I could stay. Apart from one little old fashioned hotel out in the hills, there weren’t any others, it just wasn’t a needed thing here. But that place was for campers and hikers. I doubt I could afford to stay there on a nightly basis. My head hadn’t stopped swimming today with everything I had to secure in time, before the house was no longer our
Here I was….. back again! I stared through the gap in the trees at my town as Kyan took my hand and helped me down from his back. It was just as gloomy today as it was last time, and my stomach churned with nausea as I looked at the street ahead where only a few days ago I was holding my dead mother. I already knew coming back so soon was going to be hard, but my legs felt like jelly and my head was starting to feel dizzy and hot. “Are you sure you want to do this?” Kyan asked and it was only then I realised he was still holding my hand. I just nodded glumly as I squeezed his cool palm, wishing I didn’t have to go alone. “We’ll be right here if it’s too much”. Del reassured me as he rubbed my arm supportively and once again I just nodded in reply as if I’d completely lost the ability to speak. “Remember keep your wits about you!” Kyan reminded me as he stepped closer, looking right into my eyes. “You run
Two days later: “Does the coat fit ok?” Talon asked as I put on the black coat he had insisted I wear with the black knee length dress that belonged to Cecelia. “It’s perfect!”. I replied, trying to muster a smile, but I was thankful for him letting me wear these clothes. It’s not like I had packed anything smart enough to wear, especially for something like today. “I know today will be very hard on you Ellie”. He said with a long sigh. “Me and the whole town”. I said as I flopped down onto a chair at his room table. “I very much wish I could be there to help you through it. If there was a way….” “Of course, I know you would!” I interrupted him, not wanting him to feel any guilt for me having to go alone. “I’ll be ok. I have my friends and my dad will be there!”. “I know… I just”. “You worry!” I smiled a watery smile. “You’ve worried and kept me safe the whole time I’ve been here”. I told him as I got up and walked over to him, placing my hands in his. “So, f
Ellie's POV: I woke up, blinking open my eyes that felt almost as dry as my mouth and I could see by the light shining through my curtains onto the wall, it was daytime. My stomach sank once again, just as it did every time I woke up from my perfect dreams. I’d sleep and see her just as she always used to be… smiling, happy, dancing! Then the moment my eyes opened, I’d see her face breathless in my arms and the reality would hit me, like I was seeing it for the first time all over again. I pushed myself up against my pillows, relieved to see the glass of water on my nightstand. I gulped it and felt the coolness run through my body, finally hydrating myself, but unfortunately it didn’t wash away the heaviness in my chest. I can barely even remember coming back here. I knew someone was holding me and in my mind I saw Kyan. I wanted it to be Kyan, but I only noticed the cold breeze, but just for an instant before, I slipped back into the peaceful darkness of my sleep. I h