Companions of the Night © Vivian Vande Velde

Her

He must have reminded me many times not to speak of her, but I can't help myself. She was interesting, or more like, it was an interesting point in his life.

So I pressed the questions, "who is she?" He'd either smile that smile of his and disregard my question or he's tell me bluntly that it wasn't something I should concern myself with. I would leave it alone after that, at least until my curiosity got the better of me once again.

One day he alarms me with his sudden affections, whispering repeatedly that he loves me as he drank from my veins, the sex being second nature. But then her name escapes from his lips.

At the realization of the mistake we both feigned ignorance. Perhaps it was the heat of the moment, the need to complete what already had been started, but as frustration boiled in me, his own fervent guilt persisted. That much, I knew. I may have not been the cleverest of his companions, but I was the smartest.

I thought it wasn't fair for her to be put first. She was dead and here I was, offering my body and my love to him, and he'd always reciprocate that exchange. So, I did not question his love for me, but I was aware I didn't earn his devotion. It was a devotion he had kept so secret only to be felt by her.

He tells me suddenly, after his fill, after the sex, "I'll tell you…" I swore I saw him hesitate. "I'll tell you about her." I never knew the consequences of knowing more about his life, but it was too late when I realized this.

Author's Note: A short story broken up into several different pieces. Similar to another piece called Addicted.

I have a sort of major writer's block for Troublesome Age Leads to a Troublesome Future. I have an idea of where it's going, but I'm not sure if that would be a route I want to take. See, I have two paths for that story… one requires dedication I may not have (oh but trust me, so worth it) and another one that finishes the story in a satisfying way but in sort of a "Ah, I saw that coming." So… please be patient with me! I truly appreciate it.