First Sight
She swung herself between the trees on her crutches. Although the grass was soft, making it hard work, and a footpath ran parallel to her path, she kept at it. She despised the city, being as it was; her prison. Her crushed leg prevented her from driving anywhere, and student's wages meant that a taxi was out of the question.
So everyday, on her way home, she wound her way through the wildest parts of the park. Through the trees and the thickets, over the open stretch used by the mounted police. She hardly ever saw anyone coming this way. Most of the people hurried along the concrete path looking neither left on right.
But she did look. She watched the shadows lengthen as the sun dipped lower in the sky, her eyes flicked when ever a bird called, searching for it among the leafy branches.
If she hadn't looked, she never would have seen him.
His stance was inoffensive and casual, his movements quiet but lithe. He was so unobtrusive; he could hide in plain sight. She would have forgotten him again almost instantly if it hadn't been for his dark eyes trained on her. Eyes so dark you couldn't even discern the pupils. They looked odd, set in his pale face beneath sun-streaked hair. His expression was intense, but gave nothing away. Slowly her paced in her direction, every movement fluid, speaking of strength and agility.
She forced herself to continue on her way, but was unable to completely drag her eyes from him.
The evening breeze was picking up, rustling the leaves and allowing the last of the sun through, bathing the grass in gold.
On his skin it sparkled and gleamed, throwing rainbows.
Her fears where confirmed: vampire. She stopped, stock still, and turned to face him openly. There was no point in trying t escape. All she could hope for was that it would be fast. Surly he would be merciful enough to make it quick and efficient; easier for both of them.
His expression was softer now as he saw her understanding and acceptance of her fate. She dropped one of her crutches and extended her hand towards him.
"Please, make this quick. But, before you do, could I finish a letter? And, after, if you could post it?"
Surprise filled his eyes, and his voice was glorious and deep as he replied,
"Yes, of course. I will."
"Thankyou."
She pulled a letter from her pocket, and wrote across the back:
'My dearest friend. A vampire has found me in the park. Just as from Twilight. He has promised that it shall be fast, and that he will post this for me. As a way to go, well I can think of plenty far worse. I love you, I shall miss you. Tell my family and friends. Goodbye.'
She folded the paper once more and sealed it in the envelope. She jumped at his icy touch as she placed it in his hand.
"Thankyou."
He stepped towards her again, and took her in his arms.
His dark eyes stared into hers for a long moment. Eyes so black without even a touch of colour.
Slowly he bent his head down.
"Do not fear."