A groan escaped Isolde’s lips as her phone went off for the fourth time in just as many minutes. She pulled the pillow off her head and looked groggily at the clock. Fucking 3:30 in the damn morning. This had better be important. She reached over and picked up her BlackBerry off the side table. She stabbed the connect key and put the phone to her ear. “You had better have a damn good reason to call me at this hour, Perry.” In her sleep induced fog she almost didn’t catch her Irish accent from coming through.

“I’m sorry, Isolde. I really am. But I don’t know what to do.” A squeaky male voice replied back, complete with a slight tremor in it.

And he has a degree in this shit? Isolde placed her arm over her eyes, shielding them from lamplight streaming in through the window. “What’s going on?”

“Well. . . it seems that the air conditioning has gone out.”

Shit. “So have you called to get the repair people out there?”

“I can’t find their number.” Isolde could hear the fear in Perry’s voice. He knew that he was on thin ice with her. As far as she was concerned he wasn’t worth the space that he was taking up. Just two days before she had caught him closing out tickets without fixing the problems . . . again.

“It’s in the Rolodex.” Isolde had sat up in bed, now wide awake.

“I looked there.” Isolde stood and walked out of the bedroom and into the living room. She grabbed her laptop, set it on the coffee table and turned it on.

“It’s also posted on the wall next to the door in the main server room.” She hit a few keys and started to check the status of the different servers. Shit, shit, shit! She watched in horror as two of the raid drives for one server went out.

“That’s where I am now. I can’t find it.” Perry whined back.

Isolde stood and practically ran back into her bedroom. She pulled a pair of jeans, a printed t-shirt with a cartoon bunny on it that said Life . . . Get one! on it, underwear, bra and socks. She threw them on in record time, grabbed her sneakers, slipped her feet into them and headed into the bathroom. She grabbed her brush, ran it through her hair a couple of times, pulled her waist length raven black hair into a ponytail and headed out into the living room again. “I’ll be there in ten minutes. Go into the storeroom and get the fans and put them in the server room.”

“What good will that do?” He can’t be that dense, can he?

“It’ll move the air around. Hopefully we won’t lose anymore servers.” She picked up her laptop, threw it in its case, grabbed her wallet and keys and headed out the door.

*****************************

When Isolde got home again seven hours later, she was even in a more foul mood than when she left. “They had better not even THINK about calling me to come back in to work today.” she said to no one. She threw her stuff on the couch and headed into the kitchen. She grabbed the remote to her stereo system and hit play. The stereo made a few noises and then Evanescence’s song Haunted started playing.

She opened the refrigerator, looking for something to eat. She settled on leftover homemade ravioli and marinara sauce. Isolde pulled the container out, reached into the cupboard and took out a plate. She opened the plastic container, poured the contents onto the plate and placed the plate into the microwave to heat.

While the food was heating, she headed into the bedroom to change, coming out in a set of yoga capri’s and the same shirt. She opened the silverware drawer and took out a fork. She then padded back to the microwave, took out the plate and set it on the bar. Deciding that she needed a drink, she went back to the fridge, removed a bottle of Riesling, pulled a glass down from its spot hanging in the rack above the island and poured the wine into it. She then walked around to the bar and plopped down into the bar stool and started to eat.

******************************

Mick smiled, eyes still closed, as he felt Beth stirring. It still amazed him how he could still after three years wake with a raging hard on every day. Vampires just normally didn’t have that kind of thing, or so he had been told and up until he had gotten together with Beth, it had been true. He reached over and started fondling her breast, the nipple responding to his ministrations immediately. Beth pushed her derriere against Mick’s swollen member in response.

A soft moan escaped her lips, quickly followed by a smile. She snaked her hand behind her and down, finding what she was looking for immediately. She wrapped her hand around Mick’s member and started slowly stroking it up and down with a feather light touch that she knew absolutely drove him crazy.

“Oh . . . God . . . Beth.” Mick managed to eak out. She had rolled over and was now using both hands. Mick’s eyes rolled back in his head, a look of shear ecstasy on his face from the exquisite torture she was giving him.

Beth kicked the latch to the freezer causing the lid to open with a woosh letting the trapped air out to give her more room. She then pushed Mick back onto his back, smiling wickedly at him. “Just what are you thinking, my love?” Mick asked.

“Oh I don’t know . . . ” Her eyes traveling up Mick’s chest to rest on his face. “Making you cum . . . screaming my name, maybe?” Her eyes were dark with desire, the blue lost in the black of her pupils, white tinging the rims. Mick groaned. He knew then that he was in trouble, a very, very good kind of trouble, but trouble none the least.

“Only if I get to do the same.” Mick responded. He snaked one hand down her stomach, once reaching her folds he took his thumb and started massaging her clit, two of his other fingers finding their way down and into her hot, wet opening. The motions earned him a low growl of pleasure from her. “Swing that sweet ass of yours up here.”

Beth opened her now fully white eyes to look at her husband. “So . . . you want to do the tit for tat thing simultaneously today, do you?” She bent down and started to lick Mick’s cock like a huge lollypop.

“Oooooh my god, you do that way tooo well.” Mick managed to get out. He put both hands on Beth’s cheeks encouraging her to straddle his face. She obliged him, by lifting her leg up and setting it down on the opposite side of his head. He wiggled around a little to get into the right position. Mick took his tongue and slowly drug his tongue from the base of her area up to her clit, sending shivers down Beth’s spine. “Well someone always made sure that I had a huge supply of lollypops when I was a kid.” She commented breathlessly.

Mick smiled to himself. It had been one of his yearly rituals as Beth had been growing up to send her lollipops on her birthday. He sucked on one of her lips before dragging his fang along the inside up to her clit again, sucking it into his mouth. Beth hissed in pleasure.

Her response was to up the anty. She dropped her jaw and relaxed her throat, taking all of him in her mouth. Then she started slowly moving her mouth up and down, swallowing every so often just to change things up.

Mick was finding it hard to concentrate with what she was doing to him. But the scent of her arousal brought his attention back to her moist folds. They were calling to him. He licked his lips, another groan of pleasure escaping his lips as Beth changed the pressure and angle of her mouth on his cock. Without waiting he plunged his tongue into her core, pulling it out and then pushing it back in again, over and over.

Beth started moving her head up and down in time to Mick’s movements. She let out a moan that got a moan in response from Mick as he felt it through this cock and into his core. He decided to switch it up. He slowly drug his tongue up her folds. Upon reaching Beth’s clit, he sucked into his mouth, tickling it with the tip of his tongue, making sure to nip every once and awhile, stopping Beth in her tracks every time he did so.

Her response was to yet again increase her speed, making sure to drag her fangs along the sides of Mick’s member, nipping the tip every so often as well.

By now both were teetering on the edge of sweet oblivion. Mick could sense the change in his mates smell, just as Beth could sense the change in Mick’s.

“Beth . . .” Mick spoke, his voice filled with the tension of unreleased passion. “I can’t . . . I can’t . . . I’m soo close.”

Beth smiled around his cock, then picked up the pace yet again. Mick growled, closing his eyes, he fought the urge to bite until he could tell Beth was ready too.

He sunk his fangs in the sensitive flesh around Beth’s clit, sending him over the edge screaming “Beth!” as her sweet blood filled his mouth.

At feeling his bite, Beth quit resisting the urge to bite as well, and sunk her fangs into the base of Mick’s now throbbing member, sending her crashing over the edge with him. She pulled her head up, kissing the head before she collapsed to the side next to Mick. “Ha.”

Mick responded, breathing heavily, “Ha, what?” He reached down and pulled her back up to him so that Beth’s head was resting on his shoulder.

“You screamed my name.” She responded triumphantly.

“I do that all of the time.” He snarked back.

Beth smirked. “Not like that you don’t.”

“Oh, really.”

“Yep. You screamed my name like a girl.”

Mick glared at her. “I did not.”

Beth sat up, put her hands on the side of the freezer and agily jumped out. “Oh, but you did.”

She got a humph in reply, which sent her giggling as she put her turquoise blue thigh length silk robe on, tying the sash into a bow. She then sauntered out of the freezer room, heading downstairs. She called up the stairs, “You coming or are you planning on staying in bed all night?”

Mick thought about the question for about ten seconds. He sat up, put his hands on the lip of the freezer and vaulted out. He sauntered through the door of the master bedroom to the chest of drawers and pulled out his blood red silk pajama bottoms. He threw them on and headed down the stairs.

When he reached the kitchen a glass of breakfast was waiting for him on the counter. “Thank you, dear.” He picked the glass up and took a long drink. He glanced at Beth and couldn’t help but notice her patented reporter look in her eyes. “What is in that little head of yours now?”

“What? Oh nothing really. Was I thinking that loudly?” Beth finished her drink, turned the faucet on to rinse out the remnants of blood. She held her hand out towards Mick, pointing at his now empty glass. He smiled and handed the glass to her.

“You really do hate dried blood in the zombie glasses, don’t you?” Mick snickered at the look on Beth’s face.

“Gee, what was your first clue?” She snarked back. She picked up the now rinsed glasses and put them into the dishwasher.

“Do you really want me to answer that?” Mick responded, smirking.

Beth walked by, towards the stairs, slapping her husband on the butt as she did. “No, I don’t want you to answer that.”

“Leaving so soon?”

“Not on your life buster.” Beth headed up the stairs. “But we do have a date to meet everyone at Josef’s in an hour.”

“Yeah, yeah. I know.” Mick headed towards the stairs after her. “I just don’t think anything will come of it.” He climbed them, his thoughts wandering.

Beth responded from the bathroom, over the sound of the shower. “You never know.” Beth opened the shower door and stepped in. She giggled as she felt Mick’s smoldering gaze on her. “You just going to take in the view or are you going to join me.”

Mick opened the shower door, his gaze raking up and down his wife’s body. He stepped in, closing the door behind him. In a voice filled with passion he said, “Oh I plan on doing more that just joining you.” He pulled her in for a fiery kiss, electricity flowing between them. . .

**********************************

Isolde stood looking out the window watching the sunset. She looked down the street and noticed the familiar car parked there. Are they ever going to leave me alone? I’m doing what they want, damn it. I’m staying away. She sighed, just wishing the longing would lessen just a little. She still missed her husband terribly, but it was easier to deal with than the longing. He was gone, while her family was in the same city, just unreachable. Why did I have to move here? She went to the couch and flopped down. She pulled out her laptop and turned it on. She checked her emails, mostly junk but a few were work related. She answered them and then decided to see who was playing in the World of Warcraft. She logged in, picked her highest ranked character; a blood elf named Granuaile (graw + nya + wail) and proceed to see who she could fight. She was soon invited into a dungeon. She smiled grimly to herself as she accepted the invitation. I hate dungeons.

She played for the next several hours and had just finished when her phone rang. Isolde reached for it absentmindedly, answering it without looking. “Hello?”

Nothing, no sounds, no one answering. Isolde pulled her BlackBerry from her ear to make sure it was connected. “Hello?” Still nothing.

“Look either say something or I’m hanging up.” A feeling of dread crept through her, her heart started racing.

“Just a little reminder that we’re watching you.” A deep male voice responded.

Isolde huffed and responded, her voice filled with venom. “Like I don’t know that? You have my cell phone records dumped on a regular basis, my home and computers are bugged; oh and let’s not forget the not so inconspicuous car parked in front of my apartment at all fucking times.”

“Well we wouldn’t want you to go back on your word, would we now?”

“Like that would happen. I gave my word and my word has always been gold.” Isolde stood and walked back over to the window, looking down at the car still sitting there, desperately fighting the rage that was quickly boiling to the surface .

“Be that as it may . . . your benefactor wanted to remind you.”

“My benefactor?! I didn’t need any reminding.” Isolde replied, the rage fully evident in her voice. Her answer was dead silence. She took the phone away from her ear again to confirm that they had hung up. She then threw the phone across the room and onto the couch, screaming in frustration as she did so. She yet again wondered if there was someway to get around it all. She knew a lot about computers but wasn’t even close to the wiz’s that certain members of her family were. She’d wracked her brain for almost three years now trying to find a way. That’s why I moved here. Some place familiar; someplace where they used to be.

She sighed deeply and glided to the couch, picking up her phone. She looked at it carefully just to make sure that it still worked. “I’ve really got to stop doing that.” She whispered.

Isolde plopped back down into couch. She leaned forward, picking up the remote and switched on the TV. She surfed channels for a few minutes finally deciding on a movie. She tucked her legs in underneath her and settled to watch.

**************************

Mick and Beth pulled into Josef’s driveway, fashionably late as always. “You know that he’s going to be pissed.”

Mick had climbed out of the Benz and was holding the door to the passenger side open for Beth. “He’ll live.” Beth took his hand and gracefully stepped out of the car, shutting the door behind her.

“Oh, I know that. It’s just . . . well the vampire really needs to get a woman.”

They walked up to the front door, holding hands. “He does have one, well several.” Mick smiled at the look of disgust that came to Beth’s face.

“You know what I mean.” Beth responded.

“Yeah, I do.” Mick leaned over and placed a quick kiss on Beth’s mouth. “Whose turn is it to knock this time?”

Beth was just about to answer when the door swung open and one very miffed male vampire stood glaring at them. “About damn time!”

Josef took one whiff, making a face as he did so. “Can you to not do that just once before coming over here?”

Mick clapped his hand on his best friend’s shoulder. “Nope.” He pushed his way past, pulling Beth along with him. He leaned in to her whispering, “You’re right. He needs to get laid. . . and soon.”

Beth giggled as the door slammed shut behind them. “I think he heard you.”

Josef walked past the pair mumbling under his breath in a sing song voice, “He needs to get laid.”

Selene looked up from her laptop as the three entered Josef’s study. “Okay, what did you say now Mick?”

Mick looked at her, an innocent look gracing his face.

Selene rolled her eyes and turned to Beth. “What did he say?”

Josef walked around the couch and sat down with a huff.

Beth glided over to Josef and placed a quick peck on the elder vampires cheek. “He didn’t mean it, Josef.”

Josef waved his hand in the air. “Yeah, yeah. I know.”

“So what did you say, Mick?” Mike asked again for everyone.

“I just agreed with Beth.” Mick answered. A smirk gracing his face.

“Uh huh. I didn’t say that he needed to get laid.” Beth sauntered over to her husband, pushed him down in the chair that was behind him and then poked him in the chest for effect. “YOU did.”

The last comment and the look on Mick’s face sent everyone into hysterics that lasted for several minutes. Once the furor had died down, Kraven stated “So where are we starting tonight?”

Beth plopped down on the couch next to Selene. “I was thinking starting with that shipping label that was on the package.”

“Sounds like as good of place as any.” Selene responded.

Within minutes the only sound that could be heard was that of fingers flying over keyboards.

*****************************

“God Damn It!” Beth yelled in frustration. She looked at Selene and Kraven, exasperatedly. “How the hell did you to do this for sixty years?”

“It was definitely a very long lesson in patience.” Selene stood, stretched and headed towards the wet bar that was across the room. “Can I get anyone anything?”

Josef stood and swaggered over to the bar. He pulled out a bottle of single malt and handed it to Selene. “Will this work?”

Kraven looked up from his computer, “Oh hell yeah.”

Selene set the bottle on a tray while Josef pulled six glasses from the cupboard and placed them on the tray as well. Selene the carried the tray back to the large table and placed it in the middle. “I’m not serving, so help yourself.”

Kraven leaned forward and took the bottle. He removed the top, grabbed a glass and poured himself a tall glass. He held up the bottle towards Mike, “You having any?”

“You just did not ask me that.” Mike responded, deadpan.

“Hey, I don’t want to waste this. This is the good stuff.” Kraven responded, pouring another glass and handing it to Mike.

Kraven then looked at Mick. “How about you?”

Mick shook his head no. Instead he stood and walked over to the large picture window the faced towards the setting sun. Where are you? This was always our time.

Beth looked from Josef to Mick, her face laced with worry. She stood and silently padded to stand behind her husband. She wrapped her arms around his waist, placing her head in between his shoulder blades. “Hey, you still with us?” She whispered.

Mick placed his arms on top of hers. “Yeah. Just wishing.”

“Mick, we all want her back.” Mike said softly. All could feel the anguish coming from both men, though for different reasons.

Mick sighed heavily. He turned in Beth’s arms, placing a kiss on her forehead. He lifted his head to look at his friend. Mick knew that Aoife’s absence had been rough on Mike as well. He and Aoife had been doing really well. “I know, man. . . it’s just, well, sunset was always the time of the day that Aoife and I used to always gravitate to. I learned more about myself and her watching those sunsets.”

“She did love them.” Selene responded. She leaned over and gave Mike’s thigh a quick squeeze.

Mick was just about to respond when he was hit with the scent of very old vampire. He vamped out immediately, along with everyone else in the room. Then there were three quick raps at the door.

Josef stood, walked through the door to the study and to the ornate front door. He turned back towards the study and the five vampires standing in and around the doorway. The knock came again, more instant this time.

Josef took a deep breath, placed his hand on the knob, ready to spring as soon as the door opened. He turned the knob and pulled the door towards him.

One word came from Selene’s lips. “Aed.”

Aed nodded and then turned to Josef, chuckling. “Well, young one, are you going to invite us in or make us stand outside?”

That’s when Beth noticed the second vampire. She ran forward, giving the ancient vampire a hug. “Kusabana!”

Kusabana laughed. “Well, well, well, hello Beth!’

Josef came to his senses and moved aside motioning for the two Council members to enter.

Mick asked from where he stood in the doorway of the study, “Not that I’m not glad to see the both of you; but I have to ask, why are you here?”

Kusabana strode forward to stand before Mick. “To help you find what has been lost.” She stated simply. Kusabana then glided past Mick and went into the study.

Aed strode up to Mick and placed his hand on Mick’s shoulder. “We have information.” He then followed Kusabana into the study and sat down on the couch. By now everyone had reassembled in the study.

Mick was standing behind Beth, their arms intertwined around her waist, his head resting on her left shoulder. Selene was leaning on the side of a chair, her arms crossed over her chest with Kraven facing her, his hands on her shoulders. Mike had taken up residence on the chair next to the couch where Aed and Kusabana now rested and Josef was leaning against the door frame to the study.

“So why exactly are you here, Aed?” Kraven querried.

“As I said we have information.” Aed leaned back on the couch, coolly taking the group in.

Now Mick was getting pissed. Beth felt it and squeezed Mick’s hands in silent request. “What information, Aed?”

“You should probably all take your seats.” Kusabana answered. “This is going to be a long night.”

Mike’s eyes flashed. He wasn’t in the mood for games. Especially from Council members. “What is this about?!”

Kusabana turned to look at the younger vampire. She could see the pain in his eyes, then again she could see it in all of their eyes. She only needed to say one word and all the breathing in the room stopped. “Aoife.”

Aoife looked up from her reading as she sensed a very familiar, yet tortured presence standing in the doorway of the study. “Mick, come in please; sit down. What did you need to talk about?”

She motioned for him to sit. He looked around, finally deciding on the deep burgundy wing back chair that sat across from the couch were Aoife was seated.

Aoife set the book she was reading down across her lap. She looked passively at Mick, waiting for him to start. He sat hunched over his arms resting on his thighs, his hands clasped together, looking down at the floor. He took a deep breath and slowly lifted his head to look at his sire. Aoife could sense the mixture of emotions that Beth had been talking about. Beth had been right. The strongest emotion she felt coming from him was disgust. Not at Beth, but with himself.

Mick sighed deeply. “So . . . what are you reading?”

“A book on Irish history. You know it’s amazing what gets left out or is completely wrong.” Aoife continued to stare passively at him.

“Hmmm. Guess that’s what happens when you actually lived through it.” Mick leaned back in the chair. He absentmindedly stroked his hand through his hair.

“Very true.” Aoife made no effort to help the conversation along.

Mick ran his hand through his hair yet again. “You’re not going to make this easy for me, are you?”

“Make what easy, dear heart?” She took the book, closed it and set it on the coffee table. Aoife then stood and padded to the sideboard. She picked up a bottle of single malt scotch and two shot glasses; then headed back to her seat on the couch. She set the glasses down, took the bottle, filled the two glasses and handed one to Mick. He drank the liquid down in one gulp. He held the glass, looking at it with much more curiosity than needed.

“With this conversation.”

“Nope. Mick, you wanted to talk . . . so talk.”

Mick stood and walked over to the window, placing his hands behind his back. “Why do I feel this way?”

Aoife pulled her knees to her chest and wrapped her arms around them. “Feel like what Mick?”

“Oh, come on. It’s not like you can’t tell.”

“Your right, I can . . . to a point. Why are you feeling this way?”

“I don’t know.” Mick sighed again and headed back and took a seat opposite of Aoife on the couch. He sat with his back against the the arm of the couch. “I know I shouldn’t feel this way, Beth keeps saying that she wanted to join us, that she’s fine with everything. So why aren’t I okay with it?”

“That’s what you have to figure out, Mick. I wasn’t there when Coraline turned you, I don’t know what happened.” Aoife looked at her turn with a mixture of sadness and curiosity in her eyes. Seamus had told her of his turning by Coraline once, but she didn’t want to assume that Mick’s had been the same way.

“Why would that matter? She’s not my sire anymore. YOU are.” Mick leaned over and poured himself another shot.

“True. But you have a history with her. A very violent and twisted one. One that is very much tied into how you are feeling now.”

Mick felt the tears starting to try to fight their way out. He lifted his head back to try and keep them at bay. “Mick, tell me about your turning and your first days as a fledgling,” Aoife prompted softly.

Mick looked back down at Aoife, unshed tears shining in his eyes. “I went to bed a happily married HUMAN man and woke up a mo . . .” He stopped mid word by the look on Aoife’s face.

“Stop simplifying things. And no, you are not a monster.”

Mick wiped at his eyes angrily. “You weren’t there.”

“No, I wasn’t. Mick, I’ve been alive almost 677 years now. Do you think that I was a vanilla vampire all of that time? I’ve made so many miss-steps, bad calls, etc. I can’t even count them anymore. Yes, I’ve done things that I am far from proud of. Some of them out of stupidity but more of them out of necessity or desperation. The will to live overriding common sense sometimes. If I dwelt on them, the things that I can’t go back and change; I’d go insane.”

“But you don’t hate what you are.”

“Not now, but there have been times that I would have traded anything not to be a vampire. But I am one. It was a decision that I made 651 years ago, because it was either that or die.”

“But you said you were a rape turning.”

“I was. Mick rape isn’t always because the person doesn’t know what’s going to happen to them.”

“You got to make the choice.”

“Oh, yeah. Some choice Aed gave me. Either become a vampire or I kill you.”

“You still had the choice.”

“Trust me, it didn’t seem like much of one at the time. Being a vampire back then was very hard. There weren’t such things as freshies, for example” Mick gave her an amused look. She sighed exasperatedly. “Yes, there were plenty of torch bearing mobs.” I’m going to kill Josef.

“At least your sire wasn’t a twisted bitch.” Mick reached for the tumbler of scotch, pouring himself another glass.

“No, but having Aed as a sire was no easy thing either. He has a very definite evil streak when he wants to. Now back to the original question, what happened the first few days after you were turned?”

Mick took the glass and downed the scotch in one gulp. He set the glass down, stood and started pacing. Aoife watched her turn struggle with his inner demons. How many more will he have to beat down?

Mick finally stopped pacing, now standing in front of the fireplace watching the flames dancing in and out of the wood. “She brought me a female that first morning. I was in so much pain. I begged her to kill me. I didn’t know what I wanted, I just knew that I was ravenous. She pushed the girl next to me and the blood lust hit. I just bit. I felt so ashamed, abhorred at myself for what I was doing and how good the blood tasted.”

“She didn’t’ explain any of it to you?”

“No, not at first. She just kept telling me that it would get better. Everything was so . . . I’d forgotten how intense everything is right at first until you re-turned me again.”

“So no explanations. Wow, that must have been unnerving.”

“I felt so violated, used, lied to, tricked.. The only outlet it seemed that I had was blind rage. Which I took out on helpless, innocent people. Coraline relished in it all. She seemed so . . . relieved. Happy even that I was lashing out.” Aoife couldn’t help but notice the deep feelings of shame that were starting to bubble to the surface.

“She did keep you from going rouge.”

“Barely. The second night she brought me a . . .” Mick stopped mid sentence; a strangled sob escaped his throat. Aoife put her hand on his shoulder in silent support. When he started again, the words came out in a rush, “she brought me a child, a little girl . . .” Mick looked up at his sire, tears of pain streaming down his cheeks. Aoife could feel the horror at what he had done. In that instant she understood everything. Mick started to hyperventilate. His world started spinning. He reached for the hearth trying to steady himself.

“Mick, what did the little girl look like?” Aoife asked softly.

Another sob escaped Mick’s lips. The pain in his eyes was almost more than even the old vampire could bear. “She was about four, blond with blue eyes.” Mick looked away towards the fire again. “I drained her Aoife. Without a second thought, I was so hungry. I hadn’t had anything in at least a day and a half. When I realized what I had done I ran from the house. Coraline called Josef to help find me. I met him the next day. I didn’t step back into Coraline’s house for months.”

“I bet not.” Aoife walked over to the coffee table, picked up her drink, finished it and set the glass down. She stood and glided back over to where Mick still stood. “Mick, Coraline did that to you on purpose. There’s your reason.”

“That’s not why.” Mick slumped against his arm in defeat.

“Yes it is, dear heart. You’ve killed a second blond, blue eyed little girl. Except she’s not a little girl anymore, Mick. She’s an adult that made an informed decision.”

“Great.” Mick gave her a grim smile.

“Mick, I’m sorry Coraline was your sire. Some people were never meant to be turned,” Aoife paused for effect, “and some vampires should never be sires. You got nailed on both points.”

Mick nodded in response. “So how do I deal with my feelings about turning Beth?”

“Realize that you didn’t kill a child, you gave the woman you love the thing she wanted the most; to spend eternity with the man she loves.

“I don’t know. What if I turn out to be the same kind of sire as Coraline? I just couldn’t put Beth through that. She deserves normal. She deserved to stay human.”

Aoife turned to look towards the door. She saw Beth standing in the doorway, tears of sadness in her eyes. She motioned for the fledgling to join them.

“Mick, I didn’t want to stay human. I wanted eternity.”

Mick didn’t look up from the fire.”Beth, I killed you.”

Beth walked over to where Mick stood. She pulled his arms down from the hearth and wrapped them around her. “No, you didn’t. Coraline did. You gave me what I asked for, a very happy, fulfilling LIFE with you.”

Aoife patted her turn on the shoulder and headed back to the couch. She fell back into it, wiggling around until she got comfortable. “Mick, listen to her. She’s fine. You’re fine. You’re doing a wonderful job .And she’s definitely not that little girl.”

“I don’t know. . . “ Mick lost himself in Beth’s eyes. Beth’s response was to giggle and pull him in for a hug.

After a minute or two, Beth pulled herself from Mick’s hug, grabbed his hands and headed towards the door. “Come on, old man. You promised to take me hunting in the forest.”

“Oh did he now?” Aoife stifled a chuckle. She couldn’t hide the laughter in her eyes.

“Yep” Mick lifted his love’s hand to his mouth and gave it a peck. “Go get our jackets, I’ll meet you by the back door in a minute.”

Beth smiled and practically skipped through the door to go to their suite.

“Guess I don’t have a choice in this do I?” Mick remarked as he watched Beth climb the stairs.

“We all have choices, Mick. Just follow your heart. She did hers”

Mick looked at his sire and gave her one of his patented half-smiles. “Yeah. Man, it sucks being outnumbered.” He stepped through the entry to the study to meet Beth by the door.

Aoife leaned forward and picked up her book. She just couldn’t help but wonder how many more demons Mick would have to slay, thanks to Coraline. She sighed and started reading again, glancing up as she heard the door open and close, followed by the sound of laughter drifting in through the window. She sighed and went back to her reading.

Beth quietly entered the study, not wanting to disturb Aoife. She stood just through the entrance of the door, waiting nervously.

Aoife smiled as she looked up from her computer screen. She leaned back in the chair and asked, “What can I do for you, Beth?” She could sense the young vampire’s nervousness.

Beth took a few tentative steps further into the study. She stopped and looked down at some unseen spot on the floor.

Aoife looked at her curiously. “Beth?”

Beth looked back up. “Can I talk to you?”

“Of course, dear heart.” Aoife stood and headed over to the couch that sat on the far wall in-between two windows and under the now repaired tapestry. She flopped down and motioned for Beth to join her.

Beth hesitated at first, but finding her nerve she glided over and sat down on the opposite end of the couch from Aoife. She placed her self near the edge, unsure how to begin.

Aoife sat with her back against the arm of the couch, one leg crossed under the other, her head resting on her bent arm that sat on the back of the couch. “Beth . . . what is it?”

Beth took a deep breath. “Can you tell me about rape turnings?”

A shocked look floated across Aoife’s face. Where is this coming from? “Why do you want to know about rape turnings?”

“Well . . .” Beth twittled her fingers. “I’ve been trying to understand why Coraline would have done what she did to Mick.” Beth was talking so quickly that Aoife could barely understand the fledgling. “I mean, why would you do this to someone without them knowing . . . not that I’m not glad in some perverse way that she did . . . Mick and I wouldn’t be together if she hadn’t . . . but why not tell him? Let him make his own decision?” Beth took another big cleansing breath. “Okay, I’m done now.”

Aoife just sat and stared at Beth a moment. How could she explain something that she didn’t quite understand herself? “Okay . . . wow. Where is this coming from?”

“I don’t know exactly. It’s just been on my mind lately. I’m so grateful that Mick turned me and I’m fine with being what I am now . . . but, I just can’t understand why someone would turn someone into a vampire and not give them the choice.” Beth looked up from her hands and straight into Aoife’s eyes.

“Have you tried to talk to Mick about it?”

“Yes. He just shuts down.”

“Ah, I see. In a way I can understand why.”

“Can you please explain it to me then?”

“I can try.” Aoife stood and walked over to the window. “Has he told you much more about Coraline?”

“No. He won’t go near the subject.”

Aoife chuckled softly. “I didn’t think he would. Those wounds run deep.”

“Aoife, I know you didn’t like Coraline.” Aoife nodded in response. “Please, can you tell me about her? I really want to understand.”

Aoife sighed. She knew that this conversation would happen eventually, she had just assumed it would be between Mick and Beth; not her.

“Beth, I wasn’t there. I don’t know the circumstances other that what Mick has said.”

It was Beth’s turn to sigh. “I know that, but you knew her before Mick. You said that she did what she did to Mick before.”

Aoife walked over and sat back down on the couch. She stared into space, trying to gather her thoughts.

She gave a curt nod and then started. “To understand Coraline, you have to understand her sire. She is a total product of him and what she had to do to get the privilege of becoming a vampire.”

“Mick said she was royalty and a whore.” Beth spat the words out in disgust.

“She was a courtesan. Not quite the same thing. And yes, she was royalty. But she was very far down the totem pole so to speak. Becoming a courtesan was her best way to move up. And trust me when I say she did her job well. Along the way she also learned the art of how to manipulate men.”

Beth smiled grimly. “Yeah, she struck me as very, very good at that.”

“It got her noticed by Sebastian for sure. He was the only one she couldn’t work her wiles on. And that eventually earned her eternity. But along the way she lost herself, I’d say.”

“Wait. You think she was a good person at some point.”

“That I couldn’t tell you. I didn’t meet her until she’d been a vampire for about 150 years. By then, any humanity she had was long gone.”

Beth giggled. “I just bet you two got along sooo well.”

Aoife snorted. “Hated her from the moment I met her.”

“But why Mick? Why pick him?”

“To be honest, only she could have told you that.” Aoife glanced out the window and at the setting sun.

“I did ask her. All I got was, I loved him.”

Aoife’s eyes widened in shock. “When did you ask her that?”

“When I was being held. I woke up at one point and she was sitting on the far end of the bed. They were starving her and part of her punishment was to be in the room with me but not be able to feed.”

Aoife pursed her lips together. “Sounds like Sebastian.” Aoife gracefully stood up and went to the sidebar, picked up two glasses and a carafe of blood. She padded back, put the glasses on the table, filled them and set the carafe down. She handed one glass to Beth, taking a long drink of her own.

“Aoife, please. Tell me about Coraline.” There was a hint of desperation in Beth’s voice.

“Why the sudden interest, Beth?” Aoife took another sip.

“Mick.”

“Well I figured that. What’s going on?”

Beth took a long draw off of her glass of blood. “He’s been so distant the last few days. The feelings that I get from him are a jumbled mixture of pain, sorrow, love and disgust.” Aoife couldn’t help but notice the pain in her voice and see it in the fledgling’s eyes.

“Disgust at you or himself?”

“Himself. I know it has to do something with his turning . . . well his first turning. I know he’s fine with your turning of him.” Beth added the last part quickly.

Aoife smiled gently at her. “I know he’s fine with his second turning. Beth . . . how would you feel if Mick just up and walked out on you right now?”

“You mean, left me here, never to see him again?”

“Exactly.”

Beth sat staring at her glass, thinking. “Well, knowing how I feel when he’s just gone into town on an errand for you, I’d probably either try and follow or do something stupid.”

“Again, how would you feel, not what would you do?”

Beth thought some more. “I’d feel like part of me was ripped away. My other half was gone.”

“Okay. So imagine not only having to kill your sire once yourself but then watch as someone else killed her again?”

Beth’s eyes went wide in shock. “Oh, my god!” Beth sat in stunned silence for a few moments. “Wait, you said that the tie was broken when you returned him.”

“It did. But he had a history with her. Beth, Coraline used everything she had to get him to fall for her. She drove him to the brink of insanity.” Beth nodded in understanding.

“He told me he went to her house one night, drunk and threw a chair through her plate glass window.”

“She had him right where she wanted him. I’m sure she had what she thought were feelings for him or she wouldn’t have turned him on their wedding night, especially since she didn’t have Sebastian’s blessing. I think she knew that he’d never give it. All of the ones I know about weren’t really vampire material.”

“Some foundation for a relationship. Hey honey, I know you don’t know this. I love you but not enough to trust you with the truth about me.”

“To be honest, I don’t think Mick could have handled the information. I’ll say it again. He should have never been turned.”

“I think he could have.”

“Beth, you know Mick better than that. I’ve never seen a more tortured soul. And frankly, I can only imagine the skeletons that are in that closet of his.”

“So how do I get him past this?” Unshed tears were floating in Beth’s eyes.

“You can’t Beth. He has to do this on his own. He knows that he can talk to me anytime. And I have a feeling he will, when he’s ready. Just be patient.”

Beth snickered. “Never been one of my strong points.”

Aoife laughed in return. “I noticed that.” She turned serious. “Beth, what Coraline was or wasn’t doesn’t matter anymore. What matters is how you two go on from here. Coraline is the past for both of you. She needs to stay there.”

“So no advice?” Beth finished her blood and set the glass on the coffee table.

“Just one. Just love him.”

“That one’s easy.” Beth stood to head up to Mick and her suite. She could feel that he was waking up.

“Trust me, Beth. Sometimes it’s not.” Aoife stood to follow her to the door.

“I never for a second thought it would be. He’s so broken.” Beth headed towards the stairs.

“We all are in one way or another Beth. Just love him, dear heart.”

Beth started climbing the stairs, saying over her shoulder as she did, “That one is a piece of cake, Aoife.”

Aoife watched her for another moment, shaking her head as she turned to head back into the study. She smiled as she felt a tickle in her mind. Aoife, can I talk to you later?

Just need to talk to work through some things.

Aoife sat back down in her office chair. Anytime you’re ready. I’m in the study.

See you then. A knowing smile graced the elder vampire’s lips. Time for the flip side. She moved her mouse and went back to her research.

The hottest (from Heroes):

Zachary Quinto aka Sylar

Milo Ventimiglia aka Peter Petrelli

That West guy... Claire's BF...

The hottest (from House):

Jesse Spencer aka Dr. Robert Chase

Robert Sean Leonard aka Dr. James

The hottest (from Moonlight):

Alex O'Loughlin aka Mick St. John

Jason Dohring aka Josef Koston

Josef stood at the bottom of the stairs just staring at the old box in his hands. He was so engrossed in his own thoughts that he failed to notice Aoife slide up behind him.

“Ha’penny for your thoughts, Josef?” Aoife said softly. She chuckled quietly at Josef’s jump.

“Jesus, Aoife. If I was human you would have given me a heart attack.”

Aoife smirked. “Good thing you’re not then.” Her gaze travelled to the box. “Seriously though, what’s with the box?”

Josef sighed. “It’s a gift for Beth.” Aoife could feel the tempest of emotions coming from him.

“With a story behind it I take it.”

“Seems like everything in our lives has a story behind it.” Josef went back to looking at the tattered box.

“One of the perks of being a vampire I guess. What is it?” Aoife watched as Josef lovingly stroked the box. His hand went to the latch, pushed it in and the lid popped up.

“Oh Josef, that is absolutely stunning. And the story behind it . . .”

“I bought it in 1957. I was going to give it to Sarah . . .” Josef stopped mid-sentence. A wave of grief hit him so powerful that it almost drove him to his knees.

Aoife reached up and closed the box. She then stepped up to her friend and wrapped her arms around him and just held him. Any semblance of control that Josef had had up until that point melted. For the first time since that fateful day, Josef Kostan truly grieved for all he had lost in the arms of the one person in his world that truly understood.

They stayed that way for a few minutes until Josef could shed no more tears. He gave Aoife a squeeze signaling to her that he would be alright. She in return dropped her arms and stepped back. She gave Josef a sympathetic smile. All Josef could squeak out was “Thank you.”

“No thanks needed dear heart.” Aoife’s head snapped towards the sound of the front door opening. “No go. I have to go greet our guests.” A look of worry crossed her face. She turned on her heal, and headed towards the door. She stopped half a dozen paces from Josef, turned and winked at him. Josef couldn’t help himself; he smiled back then headed up the stairs towards Mick and Beth’s wing of the manor.

He stopped short of the door that led into the main hall of the couple’s wing. How was he going to explain this to them? Josef had sworn to himself that he would keep this until Sarah awoke. But it was very clear now that that would never happen. He took a deep cleansing breath; walked through the open doors and headed to the master bedroom where he could tell both Mick and Beth was.

He strode purposely down the hall, stopping just short of the doorway. A sad smile graced his lips as he listened to the couple chatting away. Flashes of what could have been crossed his mind.

As Josef stood there trying to get his emotions under control he failed yet again to notice the two vampires staring at him with concern written on their faces in the doorway.

“Josef? Is something wrong?” Beth glanced at Mick and then padded over to Josef.

D*mn. Yes and no Beth. How about we go back into the suite so you can finish getting ready. Wouldn’t want you to be late for your big day.” He placed his hand in the small of her back guiding her back into the suite. “Sit down please.” Mick couldn’t help but notice the tattered box in Josef’s hand. Beth just stood in front Josef, a look of confusion gracing her face. “Beth, please.” Josef motioned for her to sit. She slowly sank down into the wing chair.

“Okay, Josef. What’s up? This is supposed to be a happy day.” Mick eyed his best friend, perplexed by the mixture of emotions coming from him.

Josef looked down at the box yet again. Sighing, he said, “I have a present for Beth.”

“Josef, you didn’t have to.” Beth protested.

“Maybe so, but this is special. I hope you like it.” He turned the box around and handed it to Beth, the latch facing her.

Beth could feel the pain coming from Josef as well as see it written on his face. It was almost as if his heart was breaking right in front of her. She gingerly pushed on the latch and the lid popped open. A gasp of surprise escaped her lips. “Josef, this is stunning! Where did you get it?”

She caressed the necklace gently, amazed at the smoothness of the pearls. There were three rows of them graduating in size from the largest pearl in the middle of each strand. They glowed a gorgeous light cream color and the light reflected off of them in all directions.

Josef desperately fought back the tears threatening to fall as he watched Beth’s reaction. It was the reaction that he had hoped to see in Sarah. One that he never would. “I had it made custom in 1957.”

Beth’s face shot up from looking at the necklace. “Who was this for?”

Josef sank into the chair next to Beth. Mick had moved over to look over Beth’s shoulder, a whistle of appreciation escaping his lips. “I had it made for Sarah. I was going to give it to her after she woke up.” Josef’s voice cracked on the last few words.

“Oh, Josef.” Beth looked up at Mick and then back to Josef, her face filled with compassion. “So why give it to me. You should save it for her.”

“Beth, I have been for almost sixty years now. Aoife’s not the only one that’s needed to let go and heal. Sarah won’t be waking up, ever. At some point I need to start moving on and there’s no time like the present.”

Beth reached across and placed a hand on Josef’s arm. “I’m truly honored Josef. But please, don’t lose hope. There has got to be a way to bring her back.”

“Beth, our eternal optimist.” Josef mumbled to himself. “I hope you wear them tonight.”

Beth popped up out of the chair and leaned down to give Josef a hug. “I will. I promise.” She reached in to give the necklace another quick caress. “Oh and just so we’re clear, I am only borrowing these from Sarah. When she does wake, they go to her.”

“Beth. . .” Josef started.

“No arguments, Josef.” The look on Beth’s face told Josef that there was no point in continuing.

All three vampires looked up towards the door as a very familiar smell drifted in and a giggle that followed. “Mick, Josef, you to need to get your cute little hinnies out of here so that Beth can finish getting ready.” Aoife smirked at the hmmf’s that came from the two male vampires.

“Wait, this is my suite. Why do I have to leave?!” Mick crossed his arms across his chest in defiance. Beth snickered.

“Because you can’t see Beth in her dress until the ceremony and you need help getting into your kilt.” Aoife smiled at the look that Mick gave her. “Deal, turn. Go.” She motioned with her head towards the door. Mick just huffed and stood his ground.

Beth noticed the look of stress on Aoife’s face that she was trying desperately to hide. She couldn’t even begin to imagine all that Aoife had to deal with right now, but she knew that Mick being stubborn was not one that needed to be added to the mix.

Beth stood and padded the few paces to Mick. “Honey, go, please? We’re running out of time and although I love the distraction, right now it’s just too much.” She stood on tip-toe and placed a soft kiss on his cheek.

“Come on man, getting into these get ups takes awhile. You don’t want Beth to eclipse you, do you?” Josef headed towards the door.

Mick shrugged his shoulders and followed. Beth and Aoife snickered as they heard Mick’s response float down the hall. “Like that’s ever going to happen, she’s cornered the market on the perpetual coolness factor.”

“So you finally noticed that little fact? Glad you finally caught up to the rest of the male vampire population.” Josef snarked back. The remaining women in the suite, four all told, lost it.

“So now what?” Beth went back and sat down in front of the mirror so that the hair dresser could finish.

Aoife slumped down into the chair next to her. “Well, the party officially starts in an hour. I’m sure that Aed will have to do some presentation about me being a grandsire now.” Beth giggled at the look of disgust on Aoife face. “Then I’ll announce the wedding ceremony and have you walk down the aisle. We’ll perform the ceremony and then hopefully” Aoife held up both hands with her fingers crossed, “the Ceilli can go forward without any hitches.”

Beth marveled at how fast the hair dresser was doing her hair. “You don’t sound very hopeful.”

“With this many blowhards in one room, no I’m not.” Aoife nodded her approval to the hair dresser for Beth’s hairstyle. It was in intricate updo that had soft tendrils of curled hair falling down in front of her ears. Both looked up as Selene, now dressed in traditional Irish garb, stepped into the room.

“Hey.” She dropped the shoes on the floor near Beth and headed to the closet to get the wedding dress.

Aoife gracefully stood and headed towards the door. “Selene, how are the boys doing?” She stopped at the entrance.

“Fine I guess. They’re being boys.” Selene walked over to the bed, set the garment bag down and proceeded to unzip it.

“Wonderful. Okay, I’m going to go get changed, myself. You know how to reach me if you need anything.” Aoife turned and headed out the door and to her suite.

Selene reached into the bag and pulled out the dress. “So ready to do this?”

“I’ve never been so ready for anything in my life.” Beth stood and walked over to where Selene stood. The next several minutes were spent getting Beth into the dress without messing up the up do that the hair dresser had created.

Once Beth had the dress on, Selene stood back making sure everything was in place. “You need something for your neck.”

“Oh, Sh*t. I forgot. Beth glided over to the table that sat between the wing chairs, picking up the tattered box. “Josef just gave these to me.” She popped open that latch and turned the box to show Selene.

“Those are spectacular. Where did he get them?” Selene reached in and carefully picked the necklace up.

“He had them made for Sarah. But he never got to give them to her.” Beth turned to face the mirror so that Selene could put them on.

“Oh. That explains the emotions rolling off him when he entered our suite. He was so sad, yet happy.”

“Yeah.” Beth gracefully walked over to the full length mirror to admire herself. “I told him that I was just keeping them until she woke up.”

“Beth, you do realize that there almost no chance that that will ever happen, right?” Selene went into the closet again to retrieve Beth’s traditional Irish costume. Beth looked over at her, curious. “What? Were you planning on Ceilli dancing it that all night?” Selene looked at Beth in mock horror.

“Well, yes . . . no, I guess I hadn’t thought about it.” Beth headed towards the door. “So where do I wait?”

“Um, good question. Let me find out.” Selene reached out to Aoife. Where do you want Beth to wait?

Have her wait in the study. It’s close enough for her to hear but far enough that no one will see her until it’s time.

Will do boss. “She wants you to wait in the study until it’s time.” Selene led Beth out the door and headed towards the study.

Aoife smiled to herself as she the familiar scent drifted towards her. She finished putting the last touches on her makeup and watched in the mirror as Mike sauntered into the bathroom.

“Wow. You look absolutely amazing.” Aoife smiled back at his reflection in the mirror.

“It’s not like you haven’t seen me in this get up before.” She picked up the 1 1/2 in barreled curling iron to finish putting in the Shirley Temple style curls in her hair.

Mike walked over and leaned against the bathroom counter, looking at Aoife; a smirk on his face. “I know. But you always look so comfortable wearing it. It’s peasant wear, isn’t it.”

“Yeah, basically.” Aoife put the iron down, turned it off and picked up an intricately carved barrette. She pulled the top section of her hair back and put the barrette in place. She took one last look at herself and sighed. “Aed hates it when I dress like this.”

“Why?” Mike pulled her over to him and wrapped his arms around her waist, placing a soft kiss on her nose.

“He says that I am royalty and I should dress so. I hate dressing that way, always have. Hell, I even fought it when I was human.”

Mike chuckled. “I just bet you did.” Aoife reached around and loosened Mike’s grip. She turned and headed towards the door.

“Come on, it’s time to get this party started.” She just couldn’t shake the nasty tickle in the back of her mind.

“Right behind you.” Mike walked up next to her and took her hand. “Ready?”

“No. But the show must go on, so to speak.” Aoife started towards the door and only got two steps before she stopped dead in her tracks. The air on her left side suddenly felt ice cold. Her free hand went up to her left cheek, touching it almost reverently.

“Aoife?” Mike’s face held a look of concern.

Aoife felt a smile creep across her face. “Someone just kissed me on my cheek.”

“Really.” He’s still looking out for her. Mike started towards the suite door again. “Come on the show’s awaiting.” Aoife followed reluctantly behind, hoping to see him.

Mike turned to look in the general direction of Aoife’s line of sight while still walking out the door, almost running into Josef, Mick, Kraven and Selene.

Selene and Mick instantly picked up on the strange vibe coming off of the couple. “Okay, what happened in there?” Selene asked her gaze intense.

“Jordan came to visit again.” Aoife still couldn’t believe he had.

“Oh, wow. What did he say?”

“Nothing.”

“What do you mean nothing?” Selene stared at her friend in disbelief.

“Just that. I didn’t even see him. I just felt a familiar presence and a soft kiss on the cheek.” Aoife again glanced back through the doorway of the suite. She sighed. They all now stood at the top of the stairs looking down at the huge crowd of people. She sighed again. “I suppose. . .”

Aoife put on her best smile as she regally walked down the stairs. At that instant no one could mistake her for not being royalty. Upon reaching the bottom of the stairs, she started graciously greeting her guests as she made her way towards the main ballroom.

“She does know how to work a room, doesn’t she?” Josef said to no one in particular as the rest of the group followed behind Aoife down the stairs.

“I’m always amazed at how she can turn the royalty part of her on and off. She absolutely hates having to do it, though.” Selene responded, holding Kraven’s hand.

“She hates being royalty?” Mick glanced from the scene in front of him over to Selene.

Mike responded. “Oh hell yes. Even when she was human; or so she claims.”

The group reached the bottom of the stairs and followed Aoife into the main hall. She had made her way through the crowd and to the stage in the back corner of the ball room.

Aoife climbed the two steps and glided to the microphone at the center of the stage. She motioned to the musicians to stop playing. Aoife looked around the ballroom at the assembled guests, her eyes falling on the Council members. She took a deep breath and began. “Honored Council Members, ladies and gentlemen. Please allow me to welcome you all to my annual Samhain (sow’wen) Ceilli. I invite you all to partake in every and all parts tonight. First though, there is a little business, well celebration to attend to. Many of you may not know . . .” Aoife looked towards her sire, Aed. She sighed and shook her head slightly, knowing what was coming. He made his way up to the stage, walked up and stood next to her. She motioned him towards the mike and stepped back two paces.

Aed cleared his throat, looked back at Aoife, a self-satisfied smile gracing his lips, turned back to the crowd and began. “I hate to interrupt my favorite child . . .” Aoife grimaced. “But I feel that we should all acknowledge her permanent place in vampire history.” He turned to look at Aoife again. She gave him a demure smile. “Many of you may not know what happened to Aoife in the beginning of this century and it is not my place to tell you, but suffice it to say that as a result of those steps taken against her and her recent turning of a human, she is now and will always be a Grandsire.” Aed turned and motioned for Aoife to step forward. She gave him a quick glare, stepped forward and bowed to the applauding crowd. Aed stepped back and headed off the stage.

“Thank you for your welcome . . . I think, Aed. Now back to what I was saying. Tonight is very special to us all in many different ways. We all know that Samhain is one of the most sacred of nights. The night when the veil of the living and the dead is at it’s thinnest. It will always be my wedding day. After tonight it will also be my turn’s as well.” Applause filled the room. Aoife motioned Mick to the stage. “Can you all please make room for the bride to make her entrance.” The crowd quickly parted to make room. Aoife turned to the band and had them start to play the Irish wedding music that she had chosen.

Beth heard the music start. As she walked up to Colum, he handed her the huge wedding bouquet. She took a deep breath and headed out the door, across the hall and into the ballroom. She smiled broadly at Mick. She could tell that he had momentarily quit breathing. She tilted her head up slightly and smiled at him. He smiled back, tears glistening in his eyes.

As Beth reached the stage steps, Josef held his hand out to help her up the steps. He smiled warmly at her, whispering “You look absolutely stunning.”

Beth smiled back. “Thank you.” She released his fingers as she made the final step. She glided to the middle of the stage, stopping just in front of Mick. Both looked at each other for a moment and then turned their gaze towards Aoife.

Aoife took a deep breath and started. “Know now before you go further, that since your lives have crossed in this life you have formed ties between each other. As you seek to enter this state of matrimony you should strive to make real, the ideals which give meaning to both this ceremony and the institution of marriage.”

“With full awareness, know that within this circle you are not only declaring your intent to be hand fasted before your friends and family, but you speak that intent also to your creative higher powers.”

“The promises made today and the ties that are bound here greatly strengthen your union; they will cross the years and lives of each soul’s growth.”

“Do you still seek to enter this ceremony?”

Mick and Beth looked back from Aoife to each other. “Yes, We Seek to Enter.” They both answered in unison.

Aoife continued, “In times past it was believed that the soul shared characteristics with all things divine. It is this belief which assigned virtues to the cardinal directions; East, South, West and North. It is in this tradition that a blessing is offered in support of this ceremony.”

“Blessed be this union with the gifts of the East. Communication of the heart, mind, and body Fresh beginnings with the rising of each Sun. The knowledge of the growth found in the sharing of silences.”

“Blessed be this union with the gifts of the South. Warmth of hearth and home. The heat of the heart’s passion. The light created by both. To lighten the darkest of times.”

“Blessed be this union with the gifts of the West. The deep commitments of the lake. The swift excitement of the river. The refreshing cleansing of the rain. The all encompassing passion of the sea.”

“Blessed be this union with the gifts of the North Firm foundation on which to build Fertility of the fields to enrich your lives. A stable home to which you may always return.”

“Each of these blessings from the four cardinal directions emphasizes those things which will help you build a happy and successful union. Yet they are only tools. Tools which you must use together in order to create what you seek in this union.”

Aoife looked lovingly at the couple in front of her. She had pushed back all of the mixed feelings about this. She knew she would have to deal with them, but not now. She took a breath and continued. “I bid you look into each others eyes.” It hadn’t really needed to be said since they were already doing it, but it was part of the ceremony.

“Michael, Will you cause her pain?” Aoife asked.

Mick responded emphatically, “Yes.”

“Is that your intent?”

“No.”

Aoife turned towards Beth. “Elizabeth. Will you cause him pain?”

“Yes.” Beth responded with feeling.

“Is that your intent?”

“No.”

Aoife looked from Beth to Mick. “Will you share each other’s pain and seek to ease it?”

Both responded in unison “Yes.”

Aoife turned to the table that was located to the left and picked up six cords. “And so the binding is made. Join your hands.” Mick took Beth’s hands into his. Aoife laid the first of the cords across them.

“Elizabeth, Will you share his laughter?”

“Yes.”

“Michael, Will you share her laughter?”

“Yes.”

“Will both of you look for the brightness in life and the positive in each other?”

“Yes.” Mick and Beth replied together.

“And so the binding is made.” Aoife draped the second cord across their hands.

“Elizabeth, Will you burden him?”

“Yes.”

“Is that your intent?”

“No.”

“Michael, Will you burden her?”

“Yes.”

“Is that your intent?”

“No.”

“Will you share the burdens of each so that your spirits may grow in this union?”

“Yes,” came the reply from both Mick and Beth.

“And so the binding is made.” Aoife draped the third cord across the couple’s hands.

“Elizabeth, will you share his dreams?”

“Yes.”

“Michael, will you share her dreams?”

“Yes.”

“Will you dream together to create new realities and hopes?”

“Yes.”

“And so the binding is made.” Aoife draped the fourth cord across their hands.

“Michael, will you cause her anger?”

Mick gave Beth one of his trademark half-smiles. “Yes.”

“Is that your intent?”

“No.”

“Elizabeth, will you cause him anger?”

Beth couldn’t help but smiling a little too. “Yes.”

“Is that your intent?”

“No.”

“Will you take the heat of anger and use it to temper the strength of this union?”

“We will.”

“And so the binding is made.” Aoife took the fifth cord and draped it across their hands.

“Elizabeth, Will you honor him?”

“I will.”

“Michael, Will you honor her?”

“I will.”

“Will you seek to never give cause to break that honor?”

“We shall never do so.”

“And so the binding is made.” Aoife draped the sixth and final cord across the couple’s hands. (This is the site that I found this ceremony. http://www.handfasting.info/hand4.html)

Aoife gathered the cords and started tying them together. As she did she spoke, “The knots of this binding are not formed by these cords but instead by your vows. Either of you may drop the cords, for as always; you hold in your own hands the making of breaking of this union.” Aoife gently motioned for Mick and Beth to release each other, removing the now tied cords. She then placed the cords on the small table next to her. Aoife then turned towards Josef and motioned him to come up onto the stage. Josef handed Mick the diamond claddadgh ring.

Aoife turned to Mick, her face solemn. “Mick, please place the ring on Beth’s finger.” Mick took Beth’s hand and slid the ring on her finger. “Please repeat after me.” Mick nodded. “With this ring and the solemn vows that I have taken . . .”

Mick repeated. “With this ring and the solemn vows that I have taken . . .”

Aoife continued, “I take you Elizabeth, as my wife for now and eternity . . .”

“I take you Elizabeth, as my wife for now and eternity . . .”

“Until death may separate us.” Aoife finished.

“Until death may separate us.” Mick repeated, tears glistening in his eyes.

Aoife turned her attention to Beth, who in turn held her hand out for the ring that Josef held. He placed it in her hands, winking as he did so. Josef then stepped back near the steps of the stage.

Aoife now spoke to Beth. “Elizabeth, please place the ring on Michael’s finger.” Beth took Mick’s hand and slid the ring on his finger. “Please repeat after me.” Beth nodded. “With this ring and the solemn vows that I have taken . . .”

Beth repeated. “With this ring and the solemn vows that I have taken . . .”

Aoife continued, “I take you Michael, as my husband for now and eternity . . .”

“I take you Michael, as my husband for now and eternity . . .”

“Until death may separate us.” Aoife finished.

“Until death may separate us.” Beth repeated, her face lit up with the joy she felt.

Aoife turned her attention to the assembled crowd. “Let no one, living or undead seek to destroy what has been joined here tonight.” She leaned in towards Mick. “You can kiss her now.”

A huge grin broke across Mick’s face. He pulled Beth to him and planted a scorching kiss on her lips, dipping her as he did so. Once Beth was vertical again, Aoife stated, “Ladies and Gentlemen. . . I present Mr. and Mrs. Michael St. John.” The crowd erupted with applause.

Aoife smiled. She motioned for the couple to make their way down the stage and the steps. Aoife followed close behind after stopping to talk briefly to the musicians.

Mick and Beth were surrounded by a huge crowd of well wishers by the time Aoife reached the main floor. She smiled sadly at the couple. The smile turned to a frown at the presence she felt come up behind her.

“Very nice ceremony, Aoife. Very nice.” Aoife turned towards the voice.

“Thank you, Aed.” She nodded curtly. “Was all of that necessary?”

He looked at her with mock innocence. “Was what necessary?”

“Oh, come on. The whole welcome to vampire history thing. I could really care less.” Aoife stated flatly. She wanted desperately to join her family.

“I’m sorry to hear you say that. You should care. The fact that you are the first in over 3,000 years is huge.”

“And the fact that I’m your Turn makes it all the more sweet, doesn’t it.” Aoife turned back towards the happy couple.

“That goes without saying.” Aed’s gaze followed Aoife’s to the newlyweds.

“From what I’ve heard, you made an excellent choice in Turning him.”

“I didn’t TURN him, I re-Turned him.”

“Really? Do tell.”

“I have one name for you. Coraline Duvall.”

A look of understanding came to Aed’s face. “Ah. No wonder you had no problem with eliminating them.”

“I would have had no problem without Mick as well.” She watched as Mick and Beth made their way towards her.

Aed chuckled. “I’m sure you wouldn’t have.” He looked towards the approaching couple. He’s young and she’s practically an infant.”

“Yes. Mick had to turn her. Coraline had just about drained her.” Aoife gave them a quick smile.

“Aoife, that ceremony . . . it was . . . it was . . .” Beth fought to find the right words.

“Perfect.” Mick finished for her.

Aoife laughed softly. “I’m glad you think so. That ceremony has been done for centuries.” She smiled as Josef, Selene, Kraven and Mike all walked up as well. She sighed knowing that introductions were in order.

“Aed, I’d like you to meet Mick and Beth St. John and Josef Kostan. You know Mike, Selene and Kraven.”

Aed held out his hand to Mick. “Welcome to the family, Michael.” Mick shook Aed’s hand firmly and then bowed slightly. Aed then turned his attention to Beth. He reached out, took her hand and placed a quick peck on it. “You as well, my dear.”

Beth did a slight curtsey. “Thank you, your Highness.” To which Aed chuckled loudly.

“Aoife, you have taught them well.” Aoife smirked.

“I try.” She smiled slightly, knowing what was coming as she watched Aed’s eyes travel the length of her.

“Aoife, how many times have we had this conversation?” He pursed his lips in frustration.

Aoife feigned innocence. “What conversation?”

“You are not wearing clothes befitting your status.”

“I am too. I’m wearing seven colors.” She looked over at the assembled group and winked.

“Under a peasant skirt.”

“As I remember correctly, I wasn’t really much more than that when you Turned me.”

“Minor technicality. You were born to the local king. He being almost deposed temporarily wasn’t important.”

“Oh, really. Hmmm.” Aoife turned her head so that he couldn’t see the laughter in her eyes.

Josef watched with interest the scene in front of him. He would have to ask Aoife about her Turning sometime.

“Well my dear, I think that I will take my leave.” He turned to Josef. “I understand that you are the head of the Los Angeles region, Mr. Kostan.”

Josef bowed slightly. “Yes I am, your Highness.”

“Walk with me. We have matters to discuss.”

Aed turned to leave after placing a kiss on Aoife’s cheek. Josef looked at her questioningly. She reached out to him. Go. He’s the head of the Council. It could be very, very good for you.

Josef smiled. “I’d be honored.” He took two quick strides to catch up to Aed.

Once Aed was out of earshot, Aoife fell into a fit of giggles. Everyone looked at her like she was completely nuts. “What?!” she said through the fits.

“Okay, that whole thing is funny, why exactly?” Mick asked, perplexed. Aoife motioned to Selene, Kraven and Mike; indicating that one of them should explain since she currently was struggling to get some semblance of control.

Mike chuckled as well. “Those two have the same argument every year. Never fails.” He looked at Aoife to see if he should continue. She motioned him to do so. “Except this year, he really had no point to argue. She was wearing seven different colors, like the kings in history always have.”

“Ah. Okay. . . I think.” Mick looked from Aoife to Beth confused.

Aoife finally had herself under control. “I usually don’t wear this many colors. But considering the situation, I decided that I had better.”

The confusion was still written on Mick’s and now Beth’s face as well.

Aoife sighed. “Okay, quick history lesson. In ancient Ireland, the number of colors you wore showed where you were in the hierarchy. Kings wore seven, druids wore six, district chiefs five, nobles four, soldiers three, peasants two and slaves one.”

“Oh, okay. I get it.” Beth responded.

Aoife snickered. “It was all pretty complicated. I’m so glad that for the most part I don’t have to deal with it anymore.” A broad smile came to her face as a familiar song started. “Beth, as stunning as you look in that dress, it might be best to get changed. The dancing is starting.” Beth’s face lit up and Mick groaned.

Beth grabbed Mick’s hand and pulled him towards the door of the ballroom. “Come on! I need help changing. I don’t want to miss the dancing!”

Kraven, Mike, Selene and Aoife all started laughing as they watched Mick let himself get dragged out the door, grumbling the whole time.

Once they were gone Mike held out his hand to Aoife. “Shall we?”

“Oh most definitely.” She took his hand and they wove their way through the crowd to the dance floor.

A couple of hours and endless dances later, Aoife left the group of friends that she had been talking with to make a quick sweep of the party, making sure that everyone had what they needed and basically schmoozed. Not her favorite thing to do, but it was necessary. She spotted Selene, Kraven and Mike talking to friends on one end of the hall; Mick and Josef were chatting with some of Josef’s European connections. A look of concern came to Aoife’s face. Where’s Beth? She searched the crowd and when she did find Beth, her blood started to simmer. I should have warned her. Aoife reached out and felt Beth’s mind. D*mn IT!

Aoife strode purposely towards the group that Beth was in. As she did she reached out to Mick Get over here now!

Mick was in midsentence when he felt the familiar tickle. Aoife’s words echoed in his head like a battle cry. He turned around searching for Aoife finding her just as she was almost to Beth. “Will you please excuse me?” Mick said as he felt Aoife’s boiling rage. He looked at Josef and motioned for him to follow.

Aoife let loose what could only be described as a sonic pulse towards her prey, sending him stumbling backwards and falling unceremoniously onto his @ss. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?!” Aoife practically screamed; eyes held a steely glint.

Vlad stood, dusting himself off. “I was talking to this delectable young bride.”

“Right. By mesmerizing her?! A member of my family! Why?” Aoife was now shaking with rage. Mick walked up behind, touched her on the shoulder and then moved in behind Beth, pulling her to him. His eyes flashed white and a low warning growl escaped his lips.

“I did no such thing, Aoife. Really, you’re being ridiculous.” He smiled, the smile not reaching his eyes.

“No, I’m not. Now. Answer. The. Question.” Aoife took a step towards him.

By now Mike, Selene and Kraven were all standing behind Aoife. Mike strode up and put his hands on her shoulders. “Vlad, do you really want to risk her wrath?”

“What? Aoife’s? I’m not afraid of her. She’s the one that should be afraid.” Vlad glanced knowingly first at Elvira and then at Simon.

“And just why is that, Vlad?” Aoife was desperately fighting to keep herself under control. She felt Mike move his hands from her shoulders to her waist, pulling her to him, the touch calming her somewhat.

“Nothing, my dear, nothing.”

“I am not your dear.” Aoife spat out. She glared at the trio of Council members, reached down and moved Mike’s hands from her waist and turned to leave before things got ugly. She got two steps away before Vlad spoke again.

“It’s just too bad that Dr. Aeder didn’t have the courage to kill you like he was told to.”

Aoife stopped dead in her tracks. She turned her head slowly, slightly bowed, fully vamped out. She spoke through gritted teeth, “What did you just say?”

An evil smile graced Vlad’s lips. “You heard me, Aoife.”

Aoife was in his face in a millisecond. “So you knew?!”

“Of course I did. Sebastian told me about the plan before it happened.”

“And you did nothing to stop it?!” Aoife was beside herself. Aed had decided to join the party, not realizing what was going on until he felt his Turn’s raw rage.

“Vlad. You knew where they were keeping Aoife the whole time and didn’t bother to tell the rest of the Council?” Aed said softly, anger tingeing his voice.

“Oh, I told certain Council members, just not you.” Vlad again glanced at Simon and Elvira. Elvira shifted uncomfortably in her spot wishing that she could just slip away.

“Why would you not tell him; or Kusabana?” Aoife forced out, not believing what she was hearing.

“You outlived your usefulness long before you were taken Aoife. It’s way past time to have a new defender.”

Aoife took a step forward, fully intending to rip out Vlad’s throat, D*mn the consequences, when she felt a steely grip around her arm, stopping her forward momentum. Aed looked at her and shook his head no. “Aoife has done her job admirably for over 425 years now. I see no need for a new one.”

“Then, we need a new head of Council too.” Vlad replied flatly.

“Ah, so this is the crux of the situation. You want my position.” Aed just stared passively at Vlad.

“You’re ineffective, Aed. We need to be more forceful with humans, not less.”

“So you want to take over the world?!” D*mn, Kusabana was right. Aoife felt her control slipping. Nononono, not now! She clenched and unclenched her hands fighting a losing battle for control of herself.

Mick looked at Aoife, worried. He could sense her control slipping, sentence by sentence. He was at a loss of how to help her. He pulled Beth even closer to him.

“In a word, yes.” Vlad stated smugly.

“Then you are more unstable then I thought, Vlad.” With that comment made, Aed turned on his heal and walked away, leaving Vlad stewing, his tirade unfinished.

Aoife’s eyes held a look of unadulterated hatred in her eyes. “Vlad, get out.”

“You are ordering me, a Council member, out of your home, Aoife? My, my, my you don’t value your life, do you?” Vlad took a step towards her in defiance, not realizing who was standing behind him.

“Teigh trasna ort fein (Go F*ck yourself)!” Aoife hissed. Vlad just smirked at her, making no move to leave.

A soft but very firm voice came from behind Vlad, “I really think that it would be best if you took your leave, Vlad. You have not only threatened a Council member tonight, but you have dishonored Aoife and her family as well.”

“Kusabana, of course you would come to her defense.” Vlad responded tightly.

“When someone is as out of line as you are currently; yes I will.” Kusabana looked at him calmly.

“Vlad, take your freshies and get out of my manor, now.” Aoife’s tone left no room for argument.

“Fine, fine. This party was a bore anyway.” Vlad snapped his fingers and immediately three very scantily clad human girls slid up next to him. He glided towards the stairs to get his things and leave.

Aoife just stood, panting, still fighting for control. “Well so much for a quiet Ceilli.” She sighed loudly. “I’m sorry Beth, I should have warned you about him.”

“That’s fine, Aoife.” Beth was still trying to comprehend what had just happened.

Aoife turned and headed towards the back door, desperate to get fresh air and some semblance of peace and quiet to process what had just happened. Mick followed her with his eyes, wishing there was something that he could do. He decided to follow her.

“Mick, leave her be.” Kusabana uttered quietly.

“But . . .”

“Just give her a little while, young one.”

“How could he have known and not told anyone?” Beth asked in disbelief.

“Welcome to the politics of the Council. He wanted Aoife dead so he could take control of the Council.” Kusabana responded.

“Okay, but why?” Mick smiled, Beth was now in full reporter mode.

“Traditionally, the defender, for lack of a better term, has always been the Turn of the head of the Council. Aed, made a perfect choice in Turning Aoife.” Kusabana chuckled softly. “Not that Aoife agreed with him for centuries.”

“So Vlad is making a power play.” Josef interjected.

“Basically. Aed is right, though. Vlad is not mentally stable enough to be head of the Council. For all the things that he is not, Aed runs the Council fairly and makes good judgment calls.”

“I don’t like where this maybe headed.” Mick stated grimly.

“Neither do I, young one, neither do I.” Kusabana bowed to the assembled group, turned and headed to discuss what had happened with the other Council members.

Beth looked at her assembled family, confusion written on her face. “Okay, will someone please explain to me what the hell just happened? Why was Aoife so pissed at Vlad?”

“He mesmerized you Beth.” Josef replied flatly.

“What? Why would he do that? And I thought we could only do that to humans.” Beth felt her anger start to simmer.

Kusabana floated back up to the group. “Normally that is the case Elizabeth. But Vlad has somehow been able to perfect it to use on very, very young vampires such as yourself.”

“But why? He saw the wedding. I’m married to Mick.” Her blood was now starting to boil. She could feel the vampire in her fighting to come out.

“All the more reason for him to try, Beth. To take and own what is not his to take.” Kusabana replied, her voice filled with venom.

Now Mick could feel his anger rising. He would find Vlad and kill him if it was the last thing he ever did. In his angered haze, Mick didn’t sense Aoife slide up next to him. She reached out and put her hand on his forearm.

“Not a good idea, Mick.” Mick jerked his head towards the familiar voice. He was panting, his eyes shifting from their normal hazel to white. Beth walked the two paces to him, pulled his arms around her and laid her head on his chest, the comfort of being in each other’s arms calming them both.

Mick placed a kiss on Beth’s forehead. He turned to his sire and ground out, “He tried to take my wife!”

Aoife looked from her turn to Kusabana and back. “Yes . . . yes he did. But going after him will solve nothing, dear heart.”

“Except bring your life to a pain-filled end.” Kusabana interjected.

“And just what the hell is that supposed to mean?” Mick looked at the elder Council member with a certain amount of distrust.

“Mick do you know who Vlad is?” Josef asked.

“Other than one major pain in the @ss; no.” Aoife snickered at the remark.

If the blood in Mick’s face could have drained, it would have at Josef’s answer. “Vlad Tepes.”

Beth’s eyes went wide in shock. “Dracula?!”

Both Kusabana and Aoife chuckled. “The one and only. And trust me when I say, he earned the reputation for good reason. What is in the history books is only half of the story.” Aoife responded grimly.

Mike had taken the opportunity to pull Aoife into his embrace, placing his head on her shoulder. She smiled slightly at his gentle squeeze. She felt him stiffen after a few seconds. She turned her head to look at him. “What?”

He pointed towards the vampire striding purposefully towards them. “Look.” Aoife followed his gaze. “Ah. Wonder what malady she has now?”

Kraven and Selene tried desperately to hold in the giggles that were threatening to erupt. Josef, Mick and Beth just looked towards Mike and Aoife, perplexed. Aoife snickered and said, “Watch.”

Elvira stopped in front of the assembled group. “Dr. Corvin, I really need to talk to you privately.” Mike made no effort to move other than to lift his head off Aoife’s shoulder.

“What seems to be the problem, Elvira?” He asked as politely as he could; trying not to roll his eyes.

“Not here.” Elvira’s hand went to her temples, a look of pain drifting across her face.

“Yes, here. I’m not here in an official capacity tonight, Elvira.” Mike left her no room for arguments.

Elvira’s eyes darted around the group, trying to decide if she could trust them. Realizing that the doctor was not about to leave she sighed and started. “Well . . . I have been looking online at various diagnosis’ and have decided that I have a migraine.” She looked triumphantly around at the group.

It was all Mike could do not to start laughing. “A migraine. Really. And how do you think you got it?”

“Well I was feeding from one of my freshies today and he was complaining about having one. Now my head is hurting a lot. So I must have caught it from him.”

“Ah, I see. Well I would say that the best medicine would be for you to get some freezer time as soon as possible and that should cure it.”

Elvira’s face lit up. “Oh, thank you! Thank you. I will. I will.” She turned and headed towards the stairs to the guest wing.

Once she was out of earshot, the whole group broke out in a fit of laughter. Beth asked through her giggles, “How does a vampire catch a migraine?!”

“We don’t.” Mike answered, breathless.

“She’s a hypochondriac.” Aoife stated, gulping in air trying to get back in control.

“How the hell does a vampire become a hypochondriac?! We don’t get sick?” Josef asked in disbelief.

“Exactly.” Mike stated.

Aoife looked towards the new vampire heading their way with amusement. “Hello, Katrina.”

Katrina looked around, searching for something. “Hello, Aoife. Have you seen Elvira?”

“She was just here. Something about a migraine. Why?”

“What did you tell her to do?” Katrina looked at Mike.

“To go get freezer time. Why?”

Relief floated across Katrina’s face. “Oh thank god. She’s been following me around all night driving me stark raving mad. You’d think that a vampire that old would have made more than one friend by now.” She turned on her heel and headed towards the dance area. The group re-erupted in laughter.

“Looks like the party’s winding down.” Kraven noted, nuzzling Selene’s neck.

“Yes it does. It is after five after all.” Selene responded.

Aoife looked at Mick and Beth. She could tell that they were both exhausted. “So, quick question before I send you to off to bed.”

Mick glared at her half-heartedly. “Yeah.”

“Where do you want to go for your honeymoon? My treat.”

Mick and Beth looked at each other and responded in unison. “Home.”

Aoife chuckled softly. “Had enough of Ireland?”

“No, of course not.” Beth replied.

“It’s fine Beth. I get it. This isn’t your home, it’s mine.” Aoife smiled softly. “Why don’t you to head up to your suite. Just try not to get too carried away with the post wedding fun? Please?”

Mick swept Beth off her feet, earning him a squeal of delight from his bride. He started bounding up the stairs, hollering over his shoulder. “Not making any promises.”

Aoife smirked at Mike knowingly. Josef just shook his head. “No offense Aoife, but I think I’m going to go get a suite in one of the vamp friendly hotels in Galway.”

Aoife smiled. “None taken, Josef.” Josef nodded slightly, turned to go change and gather his things.

“So. . .” Mike started.

Aoife wiggled out of his grasp. “Yes?”

“How much longer before you kick everyone out?” His eyes darkened in desire.

Aoife turned to head towards the stage, looking back over her shoulder, her eyes mirroring his. “Right now.”

She walked up to the band, which were now packing up and thanked them for the wonderful music. She then strode to the mike. “Ladies and Gentlemen. I again would like to thank you for attending this year’s Ceilli. But as seeing that the sun will be rising soon. . . I bid you a pleasant day and farewell until next year.” She hopped off the stage and sauntered back towards Mike.

“Where did Selene and Kraven go?” She grabbed Mike’s hand and headed towards the stairs.

“Off to their freezer. I swear they still act like newlyweds sometimes.”

“Yeah, they do. Maybe we should too?” She gave him a side-long glance.

“You’re kidding.”

“Nope. I promise, no stopping this time.” By now they were to Aoife’s suite door.

Mike pushed it open behind them and pushed them both into the room. “That is an offer I can’t refuse.” He kicked the door shut behind him.

Josef grumbled to himself as he headed out the door to the waiting limo. “They are all enjoying themselves entirely too much. He climbed into the limo and pulled his breakfast to him. The driver shut the door, walked around to the driver’s side, climbed in and pulled out.

*****************************

Three days later. . .

Aoife stood leaning against the Land Rover, waiting for Mick and Beth to get there in the second. She sighed to herself. She’d gotten used to having them in the manor. It was going to be so quiet now. Mike had left a day earlier to attend to a vampire ill with silver poisoning. She’d sent Selene and Kraven on a reconnaissance mission in Italy on a hunter cell. She would be headed that way in the next day or so. Aoife sighed again. Back to work.

Mick and Beth pulled up in the second Land Rover. Aoife looked towards them as they climbed out of the SUV. She could feel the excitement rolling off of them in waves. Mick strode up, pulling his sire in for a hug.

“Aoife, I don’t know how to thank you.”

Aoife chuckled softly. “You don’t. It’s not like we won’t be seeing each other again.”

“I know. But you’ve given Beth and me so much.” Beth walked up next to him, and took his hand squeezing it gently. Mick turned and placed a kiss on her forehead.

“And I’ve received so much more.” Aoife motioned for Colum to get the couples bags. “Call me if you need anything. Okay?”

“You can count on it, Aoife.” Beth fought back the tears threatening to fall. She was giddy with excitement to go back to LA, but leaving Aoife was turning out to be harder than she thought it would be.

“Beth, dear heart. I’ll be fine. You both are welcome here anytime. That part of my manor is permanently yours now.” Aoife walked up and gave Beth a strong hug.

“Thank you. It’s just. . .” Beth stopped midsentence.

“Look at it as a grand new adventure.” Aoife stated.

The group heard and impatient “HmmmHmmm.” come from the plane.

Mick laughed. “Okay, okay Josef. We’re coming.”

“Good. Money doesn’t make itself, you know.” He turned and headed back into the plane before Mick could answer.

“Well, you heard him. Money before friends.” Beth snickered at the snarky comment.

“And if you really believe that then I can sell you the Brooklyn Bridge, cheap.” Aoife snarked back. She pulled both into another hug, trying to hide the wave of sadness that was trying to engulf her. She choked out “You had better get going. Call me when you get home, okay?”

Mick took Beth’s hand and headed towards the plane. “We will.” He said over his shoulder.

Aoife watched as the pilot shut the plane’s door. She sighed heavily, turned and headed back to the Land Rover. She heard the engines start as she was climbing in. Aoife watched as the planes rolled out of the hanger and onto the road leading to the runway.

She turned the engine over, put the Land Rover in drive and headed in the opposite direction of the plane. I really am going to miss them. A single tear rolled down her cheek. She knew that she’d see them soon. Selene and Beth were in the process of planning a second wedding for her and Kraven.

Aoife shook her head again as she pulled onto the main road heading towards the manor. She just wished that she could shake the feeling of impending doom that had surrounded her like a blanket. God, I hope that Kusabana was wrong.

Little did they all know how right the ancient vampire would be.

Well, to be honest, I wondered when today’s events would happen. I’m sure your wondering why I would say that. So I guess the best place to start is the beginning.

Vampires don’t have families in the normal sense. We have to leave them behind when we are turned. It’s just too hard to explain to them what has happened to you and why you’re not ageing. That and at least when I was turned, vampires were considered real and were hunted down and killed. Think of it as the Salem Witch Trials of the 1300’s. Anyway, so vampire’s families are usually those that one turns or ones that you care for deeply. In my case that would be Selene and Kraven. With them it started out as just a working relationship. I can’t go after vampire hunters on my own, it’s just too dangerous. So when I met them 125 years ago, there was just something about the couple, something that clicked, so I hired them.

Back then the term freshies and the concept was very, very new. Yes, the idea of having willing donors is fairly fresh. It’s a good idea. I always hated that part of being a vampire. Hunting for food has never been one of my favorite things. I have never fed off of children (I abhor the idea) and tried not to feed off of innocents in general. My food of choice was the low life of the world. No one would miss them when they were gone. So when other vampires started talking about willing donors, I jumped on the idea.

Then 1908 happened. And my life was stripped from me for sixty years. Selene and Kraven, bless their hearts, never gave up looking for me or keeping up the work that still had to be done.

When I escaped in 1968, I found that I could no longer feed on freshies. I had been forced to try and get what little nourishment that I could out of bloated, decaying bodies for sixty years and now the idea of feeding live makes my stomach crawl. So I switched to fresh from a glass. Not as satisfying, but at least I can eat. I kept the freshies around for Selene and Kraven though.

Here in lies the problem that led to tonight’s events. Putting it mildly, Kraven likes to play with his food. A dangerous idea at best, but when you’re married to a vampire . . . let’s just say that he’s been warned.

Selene chose to quit feeding fresh out of respect for me when I returned. I love her dearly for that. I know she still misses it at times, even though she swears up and down that she doesn’t. She says that she gets enough of a thrill when she kills during a hunt. And it is quite a high.

Long story short, Kraven didn’t. And that fact may have cost him everything. And it led up to tonight’s turn of events.

Selene was out of town for a few days on business. And like I said earlier, Kraven likes to play with his food. So I’m sure it’s not a stretch of the imagination to figure out what happened.

He was up in the freshie wing, with at least half a dozen freshies. Now, Selene doesn’t have a problem with him playing, just a little. Just enough to get the endorphins flowing in the donor. It makes the blood richer, sweeter. She used to do it too. But she never, ever slept with her food. Maybe it’s just a male vampire thing. I never slept with mine either. Mike on the other hand . . . but that’s a story for a different time.

Tonight, Kraven went too far and got caught. Selene came home early and went looking for him. To be honest, I’m surprised he’s still alive. She found him not just playing with his food; he was having an orgy with them and as a result wasn’t paying attention.

His first clue was the low growl that Selene emitted. Problem was that his cock was in one of them and his fangs were in another. He went to pull them both out at the same time. He got his member out safely, but the same can’t be said about the fangs. He misjudged the angle and torn the poor girl’s jugular. If Selene hadn’t been there she would have bled out. (Selene decided to go to nursing school in the sixties, even worked at a hospital for awhile.) The girl was saved, but I don’t know if I can say the same for the marriage.

So now I have a decision to make, keep the freshies or get rid of them. The decision is almost a nondecision. They are all packing as we speak. I have no use for them and at this point and time I’m sure that Kraven is in total agreement.

I just hope that Selene can forgive him in time and all their hard work that they’ve put into this marriage can be saved. One hundred sixty-three years is even a long marriage in vampire terms. We are the kings and queens of divorce, on our terms anyway.

Only time will tell.

Mike reached up and stroked Aoife’s cheek softly with the back of his hand. It always amazed him how soft her skin was. “Are you sure?” He couldn’t help but notice the tempest of feelings floating across her face. He let his hand drop to her lap, taking one of Aoife’s hands and rubbing the back of it softly.

“What kind of a question is that?” Aoife looked away for a moment.

“A simple one. Aoife, I have never stopped loving you. It hurt like hell when you broke things off and then you found Jordan. I was happy for you but angry at myself for losing the most precious thing in my undead life. It’s taken my over a decade to get some semblance of peace within myself to get past it. I know we can’t have what we had before; hell I don’t want what we had before, I want something better. So I’m asking again, are you ready for this?” Mike searched Aoife’s face for some kind of answer.

Aoife sighed and stood. The question had floored her. Was she ready? She thought she was, but now that the moment was here, she realized that as much as she wanted to be, she just wasn’t quite there yet. In some ways Mike still knew her better than anyone. “You are so damn frustrating sometimes, you know that?”

Aoife walked over to the window and looked out. Mike stood and glided up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist and placing his chin on her shoulder. “So, not as ready as you thought you were, are you?”

“No. Guess not. I’m trying, Mike. And I do want this with you again. I guess I was just rushing things. I’m sorry.” Aoife placed her hands on top of his.

“No need to apologize. You’ve been through hell the last couple of years. It’s just good to hear that you do want this.” Mike gave her a quick squeeze and started to pull away. Aoife’s grasp tightened like a vice. “What?”

“Just because I can’t bring myself to have complete intimacy doesn’t mean I don’t want you to stay with me tonight.”

“You want me to sleep with you?”

“More than anything.” Aoife unwrapped herself from his grasp, headed to the freezer room, undressing as she did. She glanced over her shoulder to where Mike stood rooted to the spot. “Coming?”

Mike needed no more prompting, his clothes were off and he was in the freezer cuddled up behind Aoife in record time.

******************************

Beth woke with a smile plastered on her face. Today was her wedding day. She almost felt like she should pinch herself to make sure that it wasn’t all a dream. She felt Mick stir behind her and rolled over to face him. One of her little joys since she was turned was always being able to be the first thing he saw when he woke up. She giggled slightly as Mick scrunched his nose.

“What are you looking at?”

Beth giggled again. “You, silly.”

Mick opened one eye to look at her. “See anything you like?”

“Of course I do.” Beth responded. Mick’s answer was to reach up and put his hand on the back of her neck, pulling Beth in for a passionate kiss.

She reluctantly pulled away after a few minutes, breathless. “Mick, sweetheart. As much as I’d love to continue this . . .” Beth was interrupted by a knock on the door.

“Hey you two. Up and out the door. There’s way too much to do and not enough time.” Aoife smiled at the growl she received in response. “Sorry, Mick. Beth still needs a wedding dress and you get to keep Kraven in line.”

The door to the suite swung open, revealing her very disconcerted turn dressed in nothing but a towel. Aoife smiled to herself. Damn that woman is lucky. “I have to babysit him, why?” He moved so that Aoife could enter the suite.

“Good morning, Beth.” Aoife glided over and gave the young vampire a hug. “Because you’re the only one that has no desire to feed fresh and as much as I sympthasize with Kraven, he cannot feed from these freshies. To do so would cost him his life.”

Beth finished buttoning up her shirt as she walked out of the closet, smirking. “Yeah, Selene would kill him.”

Aoife smiled slightly but turned serious in the next instant. “Selene’s anger would be the least of his problems. No one but the Council members can feed from their personal freshies.”

“Wonderful. So I get babysitting duty. Oh joy for me.” Mick snarked, now fully dressed in black jeans and a grey Henley.

“I’m sorry, dear heart. You’re the only one I trust. I can guarantee that Mike wouldn’t make it through the day. Besides, would you rather go shopping?” Mick looked up from tying his shoes, to glare at Aoife.

“No, I don’t want to go shopping.”

“I didn’t think so.” Aoife snarked back.

“I heard that comment, by the way.” Mike had slid up behind Aoife, planting a kiss on her neck. “Morning, Mick. Beth.”

“Hey, Mike.” Beth practically bounced to the doorway. “Aoife, is Selene up?”

“Yep. She already has breakfast prepared. She’s waiting for you.” Aoife looked from Beth to Mick. Both could feel the excitement rolling off the youngest vampire. Aoife’s mind drifted back to her own wedding day. She smiled sadly, shaking her head to try and dislodge the feelings brewing there.

Beth noticed instantly the change in her friend. “Aoife, what’s wrong?” She padded over and placed a hand on Aoife’s arm.

“Nothing that needs to concern you, young one. Just something that comes with age.” Aoife sighed and pulled Mike closer to her.

Beth looked from Mick and back at Aoife quizzically. “What do you mean?”

“Memories, Beth. Memories. I have six hundred and seventy-five years of them, remember?”

“Oh.” Beth looked down sheepishly.

“It’s fine Beth. Go find Selene. She knows all of the best shops. And have fun.” Beth nodded vigorously and practically skipped out of the room to find Selene.

“Are you really okay, Aoife?” Mick asked. Now that Beth was gone, she had let her shields down and Mick could feel the mixture of emotions coming from his sire.

“Yes and no, Mick. I’m so very happy for you but it brings back the memories of my own wedding. It was the happiest day of my very long life. I just wish Jordan was still here to celebrate too.” Aoife felt Mike’s hands loosen their grip on her. She turned around in his arms, effectively stopping his retreat. “And just where do you think you’re going?”

“Ummm. To work?” He continued to try to disentangle himself, with no avail.

“No you’re not. You’re running.” Aoife gave him a squeeze and let Mike pull away from her.

“What? No I’m not.” Mike responded. Indignant.

Aoife glared at him for a moment and then sighed. “Yes you are. Mike, I’m sorry if my comment about Jordan hurt you. You’ve got to understand, I would have been married twenty-two years today. Today. I’m still trying to figure out how I’m supposed to feel. But have no doubt, I Want You Here.”

Mike visibly relaxed. “Yeah, I get it. Sorry.”

“There’s nothing for you to be sorry for. That part of my life is over, just like so many other parts. It’s just . . .”

“I know, I know. I get it, Aoife. It’s hard to hear you talk like that is all.” Mike gave her a lopsided grin.

Aoife shot him a sultry smile in return. “Okay, so I’ve got way too much to do to stay here and stroke your ego.” Aoife headed out the door. “Come find me later. Mick, meet me in the freshie wing in about fifteen minutes and I’ll show you what to do.”

Mick gave her a disgusted look. “Do I really have to?”

His reply came floating back down the hall. “Yes, you do.”

“Damn.” Mick shook his head.

“It’s not that bad really.” Mike smirked and plopped down on the couch.

“Yes it is. All of those over-sexed women, trying everything to get me to bite? Not my idea of fun.”

“Oh, there’s men too.”

Mick glared at Mike. “Wonderful. There’s women on the Council?”

“Yep. Um, two . . . no three. Why does that surprise you?”

“Not sure. Guess it shouldn’t. We always seemed like such a chauvinistic breed.”

“Hate to admit it, but you’re probably right.” Mike’s expression turned thoughtful. “Mick?”

“Yeah.”

“Can I ask you something?”

“Shoot.” Mick had just walked back into the suite from the closet, duster in hand.

“Is Aoife really okay with this?”

“Okay, didn’t see that one coming. Is she okay with what?”

“Us.”

“Little vague there, don’t you think?”

“She and I. She claims that she is, but then she makes comments like the one she did a few minutes ago.”

“Why ask me?” Mick had sat down on the opposite end of the couch.

“Because you know her better than anyone.”

“Yeah, right. Mike you’ve known her for what 150 years at least?”

“Not the point. I don’t have the connection to her that you do.”

“True. Okay. From what I’ve sensed, yes she is and no she’s not. I have a feeling that today is going to be rough on her. Between the Council and the wedding . . .”

“So I should back off.” Mike’s face fell.

“No, I didn’t say that, man. Best advice that I can give you is to just do what you have been doing. Don’t get pushy; take it at her pace for now. From what you’ve all said Aoife’s come along way in the last year or so.”

“Yeah, she has and you’re right.” Mike sighed and stood.

Mick felt a tickle in his mind. What’s taking so long? Mick smiled.

“I’m being paged.” Mick stood and headed out the door.

“Hey, Mick.” Mike stood and followed him out.

“Yep.”

“Thanks.”

“Don’t mention it.”

• ****************************************

Selene smiled as she looked up from her glass as Beth practically skipped up to the counter, scooped up her glass and downed her breakfast in one gulp.

“So how soon can we leave?” Beth just couldn’t contain her excitement.

Selene laughed. “As soon as you’re ready.”

“Well, I’m ready.” Beth replied, smiling as she felt Mick walk into the kitchen.

Selene picked up the glasses, rinsed them and put them in the dishwasher. She glided over to the overstuffed red chair; grabbed her leather jacket, threw it on and grabbed her purse. “Oh, Mick. Thanks for helping Kraven.”

Mick chuckled. “Your welcome. It’s not like I had a choice in the matter.” Mick was just finishing putting his now dirty glass in the dishwasher.

“True. But still, thank you.” Selene turned to Beth. “Got everything?”

“Yep.” Beth bounced over and placed a soft kiss on Mick’s lips. “See you later.”

“Okay. Have fun.” Mick gave Beth a wink as he headed to the stairs on the opposite side of the house that led to the freshie wing.

“So which car are we taking?” Beth asked as they entered the garage.

“I figured the Land Rover so that we had plenty of room.” Selene opened the driver’s door, hitting the lock mechanism so that Beth could get in the passenger side.

Beth giggled. “Aoife’s right. You do love shopping.”

Selene pulled the Land Rover out onto the main road. “Yes I do. But don’t let that old vampire fool you. She can shop with the best of them.”

“Yeah, I know. You should have seen her on Rodeo Drive.”

Selene chuckled. “I can only imagine. She loves Rodeo Drive.”

“So where to first?”

“I know this really quaint dress shop in the old section of Galway. They have some of the most unusual but gorgeous dresses. I figured that we could start there since we don’t have a lot of time. Aoife wants us back by four at the latest.”

“That early?”

“Yep. She’s got her favorite hair and makeup people coming by at 4:30 pm to do your hair and makeup.”

“Oh you’re kidding. I didn’t even think about that.” Beth thought for a moment. “I wonder what else I’ve forgotten.”

“Whatever it is, Aoife will probably already have covered it. Don’t let her fool you, she’s the queen at planning.” Selene pulled into the parking lot behind the dress shop.

Beth suddenly turned quiet. Selene looked over at the young vampire. “Beth, what’s wrong?”

“Am I ready to be around this many humans yet?”

“Mick and Aoife seem to think so. Beth you’ve been a vampire almost a year now. You’ll be fine. Just concentrate on the shopping.”

Beth’s smile and sparkle in her eyes returned. “Okay, that I can do. Let’s go find me a dress.”

Selene parked the car in a small parking area behind a row of old buildings. “We’re here.” She smiled, noting Beth’s giddiness. Both vampires climbed out of the Land Rover and Selene led Beth to a small shop in the middle of the row of buildings. “After you.”

Beth bowed deeply. Giggling. “Why thank you.” Selene laughed in response.

Both were greeted by a salesperson upon entering the shop. Human. Beth noted to herself. “Good afternoon ladies. How can I help you?”

“Hello. I was wondering if Róisín was in the shop today?” Selene asked. Beth noted that Selene seemed to be put off by the saleswoman.

“Yes, she is. But she is otherwise indisposed right now. I’m sure that I’ll be fully capable to provide you whatever you need.” The woman tilted her head slightly in defiance.

“I’m sure you can. But I had talked to Róisín earlier today regarding our needs and she said that she would have some examples ready for us. So if you would please get her . . . now.” Selene’s tone left no room for argument and a tight smile graced her lips.

The saleswoman dropped her fake smile and gave a curt nod. “Of course. I’ll see if she’s available.”

“Thank you.” Selene turned from the saleswoman, effectively dismissing her. “Beth, Róisín might be a few minutes so why don’t we peruse while we wait.”

Beth had wandered over to the formal dresses. “Sounds good to me. I have no idea what I want to wear.”

“Well what type of formal dresses do you usually wear?” Selene had wandered over to the haute couture section.

“Um, simple but elegant usually. I’m not a frilly dress kind of girl.” Beth pulled an ivory beaded dress from the rack and held it up. “What do you think?” It was beaded from head to toe, halter style with a plunging neckline.

Selene turned to look. “Hold it up in front of you.” Beth did. “Well, the colors wonderful, but I’m not sure about the beading.”

“That’s too much embellishment for her.” A very thick feminine Irish brogue floated towards them.

Selene turned towards the voice, smiling. “Róisín! It’s so good to see you. Are you attending tonight?”

“Of course. Miss one of Aoife’s blowout’s? Not on your life. Besides, it’s not everyday the Council attends.”

The saleswoman that had tried to help them before approached. “Would you like me to bring out the rack?”

“Yes, Sarah. After you’ve done that, you can go. Once I take care of these customers, I’ll be leaving myself for the day.”

“I can keep the shop open for you.” Sarah turned to retrieve the rack.

Upon returning, she looked expectantly to her employer. “Thank you for the offer, but that won’t be necessary. Please lock the front door on your way out.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Sarah got her things from the back, went out the front door, locking it from the outside.

“Why do you keep her around?” Selene asked.

“The human customers seem to adore her.” Róisín was now fully focused on Beth. “Now, let’s see. What size are you, dear?”

“Um, a two in U.S. sizing. I don’t know what that translates to here.” It was all Beth could do not to keep her mouth open in amazement.

Róisín quickly flipped through the many dresses hanging on the rack, plucking half a dozen to start with. “Here, let’s start with these.” She led Beth to the changing area, hung a couple of dresses on the hooks inside and motioned Beth inside.

Beth’s excitement was beginning to get the better of her. She quickly stripped to her panties, noting that the first dresses that Róisín had chosen were strapless. She threw the first one one, pulling the zipper up on the side of the dress. She then stepped out of the dressing room.

“Come over here Beth to this three way mirror.” Beth glided over to where Róisín had indicated. She climbed up on the pedestal to admire herself.

“Um, I don’t think so. Too frilly.” Beth stated.

“Yeah, definitely.” Selene added.

“So go try on the next one.” Beth hopped down and entered the dressing room again. Removing the first dress and putting on the second.

The process continued this way for almost an hour with no prospects. Beth huffed in frustration. “Is that everything?”

“Pretty much. I’m sorry Beth. Let me go take one last look in the back room.” Róisín headed back into the back room to see what else she could find.

Beth wandered over to a rack that was near the back of the store, not looking at anything in particular. On the very end of the rack was a light ivory colored dress. She pulled it off the rack and looked at it. Her face lit up. “Selene! Look at this!”

Selene wandered over to see what Beth was so excited about. “Oh, wow.” Selene felt the Charmeuse fabric. “What size is it?”

Beth looked around frantically for the tag, a triumphant look crossing her face upon finally finding it. “It’s a two!”

“So go try it on.” Selene motioned towards the dressing room. She turned to look towards Róisín who was just entering the main store with a confused look on her face. She watched with curiosity as Beth practically bound into the dressing room.

“What did she find?”

“An absolutely stunning dress that was hidden on that last rack over there.” Selene responded, pointing to the far rack.

“A wedding dress over there? Hmmm. I never keep wedding dresses over there.” Both looked up as Beth re-emerged from the dressing room and floated to the pedestal.

Beth’s eyes lit up as she looked at herself in the three way mirror. “So what do you think?”

Róisín slowly walked around Beth checking the fit here, fiddling with the hem there. “I think we have a winner.”

“I so agree. Beth that dress is definitely you.”

Beth turned to look at the back of the dress. The back was low cut, ending just above the small of her back, with a removable Crepe de Chine train attached. It had a simple scooping neckline that showed just the right amount of cleavage.

(see Beth’s wedding dress here: http://www.voguepatterns.com/item/V2965.htm??tab=list/evening_bridal_includes_designer&page=all)

Beth giggled. “Me too. This dress is going to drive Mick mad.”

Selene and Róisín both broke out laughing. “That and every other male vampire in the room. It’s a good thing Mick is Aoife’s turn, or he’d have problems.” Selene responded.

“What?! Aoife turned someone? Since when?” Róisín looked at Selene shocked.

“Oh, what? About two years ago now? Does that sound about right, Beth?”

“Yeah, something like that. I’ve been a vampire a little over nine months, so give or take a month or two. Mick could tell you for sure.” Beth twirled on the pedestal, a huge grin plastered on her face.

Selene glanced at her watch. “So is that the one you want to go with, Beth?”

“Yep. I guess I should go take it off, huh?” Beth hopped down and headed back towards the dressing room.

“If you want to get the rest of your outfit, yes.” Selene smirked.

Róisín headed back into the back of the store to get a garment bag to put the dress in. As she came back out she asked, “So why did Aoife change her mind? She always told me that she would never turn anyone.”

“Mick is very special to her. She once told me that it just felt like the right thing to do. Mick and Beth are the reason that we pretty much have the Aoife we used to know before Jordan died back.” Selene smiled as Beth bounced back up, dress in hand.

“So, now where to?” Beth asked as she handed Róisín the dress and the American Express card that Mick had given to her.

Róisín gave Beth the card back. “No charge Beth. This is a once in a lifetime event. I’m honored that you’ll be wearing a design of mine.”

“Are you sure? I mean you do have to make a living and all.” Beth took the card back and placed it in her purse.

“Yes, I am.” Róisín handed Beth the garment bag with a smile.

“So what kind of shoes would you recommend?”

Róisín thought for a moment. “Selene do you still have that pair of Christian Laboutin shoes?”

“Um the bright red high heel one’s?”

“Yeah, those.”

“Of course I do . . . oh they would be perfect.” “Beth what size are you?”

“A 7 1/2 in US sizing.”

“Perfect. I got them in New York so they are sized American and I’m a 7 1/2.”

Beth looked at her watch. “Oh, shit. Selene it’s already 3:00. What else did we need to get?”

“Your bouquet and you wanted to get a ring for Mick?”

“Yes, of course. But where?” Beth looked almost panicked.

Róisín smiled. “There’s a fantastic jeweler right down the street. Four doors to be exact.”

“Four doors down . . . oh you mean Padraig?”

“Yep.”

“Ooh, his stuff is fantastic.” Selene grabbed Beth by the arm. “Come on, he’s going to be at the Ceili tonight too so he’ll be closing soon.”

Beth giggled and let herself be pulled out the door. “See you tonight Róisín and thank you for everything.”

Selene led Beth down the street four doors to a quaint old jewlery shop. She held the door open and motioned Beth through. Both women looked around for Padraig. He came out of the back looking slightly disheveled.

Both women snickered. “Hello, Padraig. Did we catch you at a bad time?” Selene asked.

Padraig wiped a finely embroidered handkerchief across his mouth. “No, no of course not, my dear Selene. I was just finishing lunch.” He turned his attention to Beth. “And who is this lovely young vampire?”

Beth gave the old vampire a small smile. She noted that he had been turned later in life, his hair had been black at one time but now was tinged with grey. “Beth Turner.”

“Ah, the youngest protégée of Aoife’s. She’s getting quite the following, isn’t she?” He turned to Selene. “What can I do for you today?” His eyes twinkled with the expectation of a sale.

“I’m not here for me today, Padraig.”

Padraig’s face fell. “No? Then . . .”

Beth cleared her throat. “I need a wedding ring for my fiancé. We’re getting married tonight.”

Padraig headed to the case holding the men’s wedding bands. He pulled out the box that held the White Gold rings. “These are all handmade locally. Are you looking for anything in particular?”

Beth and Selene had followed Padraig over to the case and were now looking intently at the rings. “Something definitely Celtic; since mine is.”

Padraig looked for a few moments and removed several rings for Beth to look at. The first couple she dismissed immediately, but the last two got her attention. “Selene, which one do you think? I can’t decide.”

Selene took the two rings from Beth, looking at the design of both closely. She set one down and handed the second to Beth. “I’d go with this one. It compliments the one Aoife gave Mick to give you.”

“Yeah, that’s the one I was leaning to. What size is it?” Beth handed Padraig the ring.

Padraig took out the ring sizer and slipped the ring on it. “It’s a size 10.”

“Oh, how perfect! That’s Mick’s size. I’ll take it.” Beth pulled out the American Express card that Mick had given her and handed it to Padraig.

“That’s Mick’s.” Selene had an amused look on her face.

“Yep. I have to admit that he had to practically force me to take it though.” Beth said sheepishly. Padraig came back and handed Beth the card and a ring box containing the ring.

“Here you go. I hope he likes it.” Padraig headed towards the front door. “I hate to be a poor host, but . . .”

Selene laughed, following the old vampire. “No, it’s quite alright, Padraig. We totally understand. Hope to see you at Aoife’s tonight.”

Beth and Selene stepped out into the afternoon sun. Selene’s hand flew up to block the sun. “Damn, I wish the sun would go down. Come on; let’s get the flowers Aoife wants.” Selene quickened her stride back to the car. Once inside it, she reached behind the driver’s seat and pulled out a thermos, taking the top off and downing a long drink.

“You okay, Selene?”

“Yeah, wish the sun didn’t affect me is all. You are so lucky.” Selene twisted the cap back on the thermos.

“Yeah, I guess so. So where to now?” Beth glanced at her watch again. “It’s 3:30.”

“Just to the florist. You need a bouquet.” Selene started the Land Rover and pulled out. She glanced over to see Beth looking intently at her nails.

“Okay, what’s going through that head of yours?”

“Well, I haven’t done my nails in almost a year, I was thinking that I would like to for tonight.” Beth continued to stare at her nails.

Selene snickered. “Not a good idea, Beth.”

“Why not?”

“Well . . . think about it. What do our nails do when we vamp out?”

“They turn into talons.”

“Exactly.”

“So?”

“Beth” Selene said with amusement in her voice. “The fake nails come flying off. Do you want them flying everywhere during a moment of passion?”

“Uh, no?”

“Trust me on this. I speak from experience here. It was not a pretty site. Aoife had warned me too.”

“I can do nail polish though?”

“That’s fine. We really don’t need fake ones anyway. Haven’t you noticed how strong your fingernails are now?” Selene pulled into a parking spot in front of the florist.

“Yes. So I guess nail polish it is.”

Selene chuckled softly. “Guess it is.” She stopped in front of the door and turned towards Beth. “How are you feeling right now?”

“Fine. Why?”

“Because this shop is one of the busiest in Galway. There’s always quite a few humans in here.”

“Oh.” Beth took stock of her hunger and control. “I should be fine. I mean knowing that frightens me somewhat, but I have to learn to do this. I’m so tired of staying behind. You all make it look so easy.”

“It will get that way for you too. Okay let’s go. I know Aoife already has an order in. All we have to do is pick it up.”

Beth strode purposefully to the door and pulled it open. She motioned Selene through and followed closely behind. Beth stopped mid-stride, the scents of at least a dozen humans assaulting her at once. She felt the vampire part of her fighting to come out. She looked at Selene with a look of panic on her face. Selene turned and put her hand around Beth and started speaking to her in the range that only vampire’s could hear.

“Take a deep breath.” Beth did. “Now remember all of the things that Mick and Aoife taught you about control. You have to think consciously about it.”

“Okay.” Beth took several more deep breaths, trying to tune out the excess. After a few moments that seemed like eternity to her; Beth pushed the vampire back to its resting place. She breathed a sigh of relief.

Selene smiled kindly. “Ready?” Beth nodded. “So let’s get these flowers and get home. Aoife keeps texting me.”

Beth followed Selene up to the counter. “Why?”

“She wants to know when we’ll be back. There’s still a lot to do and we’re running out of time. She always gets testy about this time of day when it’s Ceilli day.” Selene motioned to the clerk. “I need to pick up an order for Aoife McClellan.”

The clerk rifled through the tickets. “Here it is. Centerpieces and a bridal bouquet of white and red roses. Nice choice.” The clerk handed Selene the ticket for her signature. “Please bring your vehicle around to the back and we will load the arrangements.”

“Alright. Thank you.” Selene and Beth headed back out to the Land Rover.

Selene parked it behind the shop, hopped out and opened the back doors. “Beth, come here and take your dress. I don’t know how many arrangements Aoife ordered.” Beth climbed out and took the dress.

“Selene, why didn’t Aoife have them delivered?” Beth asked. Two clerks started carrying out the arrangements.

“She usually does. But with the guests that we’re having tonight, she decided to play it safe.” Selene let out a quiet “Wow” as Beth’s bouquet went by. Beth’s eyes flew wide in surprise.

“She ordered that for me? It’s huge.”

“You know Aoife. She doesn’t do things half way.” Selene shut the doors to the Land Rover and motioned for Beth to get back in. “Home we go.”

“Okay. God, Selene I’m getting married tonight!” Selene sighed. Beth immediately noticed the change in her friend. “Selene? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing, Beth.”

“Yeah, right. Doesn’t work anymore. No longer human. Talk to me.”

“Just a little jealous I guess.”

“Of what?”

“You and Mick.”

“Okay, I’m lost. Why?”

“I never got a wedding.”

“What?! So you and Kraven are married.”

“Technically, yes. But it was one of those Justice of the Peace kind of things.”

“Oh, Selene. I’m so sorry. Why didn’t you have a wedding?”

“At the time, Kraven and I were basically on the run. He wanted to marry me, but back then finding a vampire in that kind of position was hard to do. So when we did find this particular one off the beaten path we took it.”

“Wow. So how long have you two been married?”

“It will be 175 years this coming spring.”

“And you’ve never had a rededication ceremony?”

“A what?” Selene pulled into the garage.

“A rededication ceremony. It’s like a second wedding.”

“You’re kidding.” Both women jumped out and started to unload the Land Rover.

“Nope. You and Kraven should. Then you could have the wedding you never got.”

Selene looked up as the door opened and Mike, Kraven and Aoife came out to help with the supplies.

“Did you get everything?” Aoife started handing out centerpieces to everyone to take in.

“Yep. Wait to you see Beth’s wedding dress. It’s absolutely stunning.”

Aoife chuckled. “I’m sure it is. How do you like your bouquet, Beth?” Aoife carefully picked up the bouquet so as not to move the ribbon.

“It’s perfect Aoife. Why red and white roses though?” Beth was heading towards the door, doing a balancing act with the center pieces.

“It’s stands for unity and immortal love. Just as a marriage should be.” Aoife said following Beth into the manor.

“Where do you want these, Aoife?” Mike hollered down the hall.

Aoife cringed at the sound. “You don’t have to shout. In the ball room. Beth once you set the flowers down, go find Mick. Selene can take over from here. There’s not much left to do anyway. The Council members will start arriving soon.”

“Okay.” Beth quickly set the flowers down and was out of the ball room in a shot. She bound up the stairs leading to the freshie wing. The closer she got, the more she could feel Mick’s mood. She smiled. He was frustrated beyond all belief. She had to stop as she reached the rooms that held the freshies to get control again. How do they all do it?

The first three rooms were nothing but freshies. Both male and female. All looked up expectantly when she entered the room. Wonder if being fed on is addicting? I’ll have to ask. Now Beth was getting frustrated as well. She could feel Mick, but she was being bombarded by various scents and couldn’t single out his. She huffed. She stopped dead in her tracks at the opening of the fourth room. She’d found Mick and what she saw made her blood boil.

Beth glided into the room with all of the grace of a queen. She stopped in front of Mick, who was desperately trying to extricate himself from two very, very underdressed and over-eager freshies. Beth felt her face change. “Just what do you think you’re doing?”

Mick’s head flew up, a look of ‘help me’ plastered on it. “He looked hungry. We just thought that we’d offer our services.”

Beth smiled, knowing that her fangs were showing. “And did he ask you?”

“No. But we’re very experienced at this and we can tell.”

“Oh can you now? Whose private freshies are you?” Beth asked, her eyes narrowing.

“Simon LeBeau’s.”

“And he like’s to share?” Now the two freshies were starting to squirm.

“Well, no.” Mick pulled himself free and stepped back to watch the show.

“So you thought that you’d try and force my fiancé, who doesn’t drink living . . . ever to feed off of you and risk his life not to mention yours?” Man these women are dense. Beth thought. She took a step towards the freshies, causing them to step backwards. Both fell unceremoniously onto the couch behind them.

“We didn’t think about that. It just feels so good.” Beth’s left eyebrow arched.

Beth took another step forward. She growled quietly and noted the fear now coming from all of the freshies in the room. “I will tell you this only once. Stay away from my fiancé.”

One freshie stood defiantly. “Or you’ll do what?”

“Take you out of the rotation . . . permanently.” Beth turned and glided over to Mick, giving him a passionate kiss. She reached for his hand, pulling him out the door with her.

Selene was standing just outside, a huge grin on her face. “That was quite a show, Beth.”

“I know I shouldn’t have but, it just pissed me off.” Beth rounded on Mick. “Why were you letting them do that anyway?”

Mick smiled sheepishly. “I have been fighting that ever since you left. That’s why I didn’t want to do this in the first place. And I wasn’t letting them.”

“No one messes with my man.” Beth smiled at the tickle in her mind.

Rescue Mick yet? Aoife’s amused voice filled her head.

Yep. All saved. Beth giggled.Beth, you need to get back to your suite. The hair and make up artists are there waiting for you.Sure thing Aoife. Beth pulled on Mick’s hand, leading them towards the stairs. “Come on, Aoife says the people are here to do my hair and makeup. And you look like you need a break.”

“What?” Mick looked at her perplexed.

“Nothing. Private conversation with Aoife.”

“Hey. No fair.” Mick pouted.

Beth punched him in the arm. “Yes it is. You have them with her all of the time.”

“No arguments there.” He scooped Beth up into his arms and headed towards their suite.

*****************************

Aoife looked up from her paperwork to see one of the small staff that she had hired standing patiently in the door of her office. She sighed. “Yes, Colum?”

“There is a Kusabana to see you ma’am.”

“Thank you. Please show her in.” Aoife stood up from her desk and strode towards the door to meet her guest. Aoife bowed low as a petite Japanese woman of about 25 walked into the room. The woman bowed in return, pushing her long black hair back in its place as she straightened. She smiled warmly at Aoife.

“Hello, young one. You look much better than the last time I laid eyes on you.” The ancient vampire glided over to the sofa and sat down.

Aoife laughed. “You are the only one that can get away with calling me that. How are you, Kusabana (koos uh bahn uh)?”

“I’m doing well.” The smile quickly left Kusabana’s face. “We need to talk.”

Aoife’s heart sank. If Kusabana needed to talk then it wasn’t good. Aoife crumbled into the opposite side of the sofa. “About what?”

“Well . . . you do realize that the decision for you to eliminate the Duvall clan was not unanimous?”

Aoife sighed. “I figured as much. What was the vote?”

“Four to three. It was a blind vote, but I’m sure you can guess who voted to spare them.”

Aoife stood and walked over to the bar. She pulled out two glasses and a carafe; filled the glasses and went back to the sofa, handing one to Kusabana. “Well, if I had to guess, Vlad, Simon and Elvira.”

“You’re correct. Elvira literally threw a temper tantrum.” Kusabana’s face turned to a look if disgust.

Aoife chuckled softly. “I just bet she did. That woman acts more like a child than a 1,250 year old vampire and to top it off she’s a hypochondriac. How a vampire can be that is beyond me.” Both Aoife and Kusabana snickered at the thought. “She had an off and on thing going with Sebastian didn’t she?”

“She did. It was off at the time you killed him; she still looked like she was staked with a pure silver stake when the vote was read.” Kusabana took another sip from her glass. “Watch out for her.”

“I’m not too worried about her. I’m more worried about Vlad and Simon.” Aoife finished her drink and set the glass down on the coffee table in front of her. One of her help was standing patiently at the door. “Excuse me for a moment. Looks like the help has a question.” Aoife stood and glided to the study door. “Yes?”

“Ma’am the musicians are here. Where would you like them to set up?”

“In the ballroom, along the far wall.”

“Yes, ma’am.” The butler bowed and left the doorway.

“I thought you weren’t going to get more human help.” Kusabana smiled mischievously.

“I wasn’t. But this place is just too big to take care of on my own. Especially since whether I like it or not, I have to get back to work . . . soon.” Aoife plopped back down onto the sofa.

“That’s probably a very wise decision, Aoife. Vlad has been making moves to replace you with a young turn of his.”

Aoife’s eyes narrowed. “What are you talking about?” Her posture stiffened. “Why exactly?”

“He feels that it’s time for new blood. Time for another, younger, more hip vampire to do the job.”

“You have got to be bualadh craicinn (fucking) kidding me? It took me almost seventy-five years to learn even a fraction of what I needed to know to do this job. Besides it anyone should take over, it should be Selene and Kraven. I’ve taught them everything I know.” Aoife’s eyes held the glint of controlled rage.

“I know you have. But this move is purely political. Vlad is tired of being second in line. He thinks that if he has the hunter under his wing, he’ll be the head of the Council.”

“Oh, I’m sure it’s political, but knowing him that’s not the only reason. He’s always hated Aed and therefore me. Feeling’s mutual though.” Aoife stood and headed back to the bar. “Care for some sake?”

“I would love some.” Kusabana stood and practically floated to the bar to stand next to Aoife. “I share your feelings for him. I just wanted you to be aware so that if Vlad starts something . . .”

Aoife handed Kusabana a small glass filled with sake. “Oh he will. I just hope it’s not tonight.” Aoife gave the ancient vampire a grim smile and downed the sake in one gulp.

“He’s unpredictable at best. Please Aoife; watch you and your family’s backs. I fear trouble is brewing. You’ve done your job honorably for a very, very long time now and I hate to see you lose everything.”

“Not something that I’m planning on happening either.” Aoife smiled at the scent drifting towards her from the doorway. She turned to smile broadly at the vampire standing there. “Hey, Josef.” She giggled at what she saw. Josef looked absolutely terrified.

Kusabana took the lead in easing his trepidation. “Hello young one.” Aoife snickered at Josef’s response. She motioned him to come in.

“What’s up?”

Josef just stood rooted to the spot. Aoife did a quick feel and found that he was so flustered that his shields weren’t up to par. Bow Josef. As if on autopilot, Josef did. Kusabana bowed in return, smiling mischievously as she stood again.

Aoife tried again. “Josef.”

He shook his head as if to clear it and stepped forward heading towards Kusabana. He bowed again. “Your highness.”

Aoife smiled again. “Kusabana, I’d like to introduce you to the head of the Los Angeles region. Josef Kostan.”

“How nice to meet you. Aoife has reported that all is in order in your region. Thank you for your service to the tribe.”

Josef puffed up with pride. “My pleasure, your highness.” He turned to Aoife. “Where’s Beth?”

“She’s in her suite getting ready. Why?” Aoife noticed the box that he was holding tightly in his hand.

“I have something for her.” Josef absentmindedly rubbed his thumb across the box. Aoife could feel his mixed feelings about what was in the box.

“Well, you know where they’re suite is. Mick’s up there too, I believe.”

“Okay. Thanks. I didn’t mean to interrupt.” Josef bowed again, turned on his heel and left.

Kusabana broke out laughing as soon as she knew Josef was out of hearing range. “It’s so amazing to me how vampires react when they get around Council members.”

“Yeah, well most aren’t as lucky as I am.” Aoife snarked.

“You make that sound like it’s a bad thing.” Humor filled Kusabana’s voice.

“Other than you, David and on very rare occasions Aed; it is.”

Kusabana set her glass down and headed towards the door. “I’ll leave you to finish your preparations. It looks like you are going to have a busy evening.”

Aoife followed her behind. “That is an understatement of the highest order.”

Explanations – Part 2

I stood and just looked at him for a moment. He was really and truly standing right in front of me. I laughed nervously. “Jordan, I . . .” My voice caught in my throat, rendering me, of all people totally speechless.

“Aoife, please tell me what I thought I saw last night was not really what I saw.” Jordan stood looking at me, his hazel eyes showing the tumultuous mixture of emotions that he was feeling. His heart was racing.

“I can’t, dear heart.” I sighed heavily, turned had headed to the bar. I opened the cupboard and pulled out two shot glasses and a bottle of my best single malt whiskey. I knew that we were going to need it.

I walked back to the couch, sat down and motioned for him to sit next to me. He hesitated for a few seconds and then sat down on the far opposite end. By then I had poured us both a shot of whiskey. I handed him one which he downed immediately. Mine quickly followed suit.

I could feel his heart rate slow to a more normal level and watched as a look of steely determination came across his face. “So, I’m here. Explain.”

I took a minute or two to gather my thoughts. How much should I tell him tonight? How much did he need to know? Where the hell did I start? “What do you want to know?”

“Are you even human?” His gaze bored into me.

I looked from my empty glass and back at him. “No, Jordan. I’m not. I haven’t been for a very long time.”

“So what exactly are you then? Up until twenty-four hours ago, I thought you were human. More than a little eccentric, but human.” He reached over to the whiskey and poured himself another glass.

“I’m a sumaire.” At this point I figured strait to the point was probably the best way to go.

His response was to choke on the whiskey. “You’re a what?!”

“Oh, come on. You know Gaelic.” I replied.

“Never heard that word. English please.”

“I’m a vampire, Jordan.” There I had said it. I steeled myself for his reaction, which I assumed would be to get the hell out of my manor as fast as he could. But his reaction was the complete opposite. Instead of leaving he actually moved closer to me. The fear that I had been sensing was now completely replaced with curiosity.

“Okay . . . and that entails what?” I could have sworn that he was trying not to smile.

It caused me to smile half heartedly at him. “You have got to be kidding. I drink blood.”

“Well, no shocker there. I mean; how much of what is written is real?”

“You mean in books and movies?”

“Yeah.”

“Well most of it is completely off base. I don’t sleep in a coffin.”

“Wow. Okay so what do you sleep in then?”

“A freezer.” Jordan’s eyebrows shot up in surprise.

“What about sunlight and such?” At that point I just laughed.

“Okay, time for your first lesson about vampires.”

He scooted even closer. “I’m game.”

“Jordan, aren’t you scared?”

“Well, I was at first. I mean yesterday, seeing you like that and all. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that a lot of the way you react to things makes sense now.”

“Ah.”

“So spill.”

“Okay, okay. For most, well all other vampires but me, sunlight can kill if they are out in it too long.”

“What about stakes?”

“You mean like they use them in the movies?” I was amazed at how well he was taking all of it.

“Um, yeah. Do they kill you?”

“No, they don’t. They paralyze us. So it gives the impression that we’re dead. I’m immune to its effects though.”

“What else?” I was totally taken aback by his attitude. But I really shouldn’t have been. It was so very typical Jordan.

“Fine. Silver will paralyze us and too much will kill us. Again, not me though. And before you ask, no I can’t turn into a bat or fly. I do have a wicked vertical leap though.”

Jordan started laughing, hard. “I’m sorry, but the image of you as a bat . . .” That comment earned him a punch in the arm. By now, my own fears were starting to fade. Maybe we could make this work.

Once he got control of himself, his demeanor turned serious. “Aoife, how old are you?”

“I’m forever twenty-six.”

Jordan huffed in frustration. “I can see that. How old are you really?”

“I was born here in this very manor in the summer of 1333. I was turned in the fall of 1359.”

So you’re six hundred and fifty-three years old?!” The look on his face was priceless.

“Yep. And if you tell me that I look my age . . .” I tried to look angry, but couldn’t pull it off. Then Jordan did something that totally caught me off-guard, he leaned in and gave me a scorching kiss. Not a peck on the cheek, but an honest to goodness lustful, hungry kiss. I couldn’t help it, I started purring.

He pulled back and looked at me. “Are you purring?”

I looked at him sheepishly. “Yes.”

“Oh, god. That has got to be the sexiest thing in the world.” Jordan leaned back in for another kiss. As much as I wanted to go where this was leading, I stopped him.

“Jordan, I’m not human. My responses aren’t going to be what you expect. We need to take this slowly.” God, I wanted to take it fast, but if he didn’t know what he was getting into, he might get hurt.

He looked at me, hurt filling his features. “What? You don’t want to sleep with me?”

I took his hands into mine and started to gently rub the tops of them with my thumbs. “I want nothing more to make love you. But you need to be prepared and right now you’re not.”

“Make love?” Funny the things that humans focus in on. Here I was worried about seriously hurting him and he focuses on my word choice.

“Yes. Make love.” Did I say it? I stood and walked to the window.

Jordan stood and walked over to me; he reached out and gently turned me to face him. “Are you trying to say what I think you are?”

I lost myself in his almost green eyes, searching them to see if now was the right time. “I think so. Jordan, I’ve always been told that vampires are incapable of love. I always believed that, but now . . . I think that it’s all a total lie. I’ve fought how I feel about you for months now, and I’m tired of doing so. So, yes. I love you.”

I swear if his face could have it would have lit up a Christmas tree. “I love you too, sweetheart.”

This time it was me that leaned in and started the kiss. Yes, I knew that the road ahead was uncharted territory but it seemed one that we were both willing to enter.