Jess was called into Madame Ivashkovs' office. Jess walked in with her head held high even though she knew this could be the end of her. She had recently gotten into another fight with Adrian. It was his fault though…he always is so creepy around her, and Jess will do anything to defend herself. The door opened and Jess silently walked through the door.

Madame Ivashkov was at her desk and glanced up as soon as Jess walked through the door. She acknowledged Jess's presence, but continued to do her work. What am I supposed to do? Wait here all day? Jess wasn't too fond of her, and she thought Madame Ivashkov felt the same way.

After what seemed like an eternity, she finally spoke up, "Jessica Marinov, I suppose you know why you are here."

"Yes, I do, and I would like to make a formal apology to your highness. I never meant to trouble you and Adrian."

"You are mistaken as to why you are here. I did hear of that little mishap, but that is not what I wish to talk to you about."

Jess was taken aback for a second, "Then…what is it?"

"I would like to adopt you."

Jess stared at her with her mouth wide open. She was waiting for a 'just kidding, you need to leave and never come back'. But that never came. "You're serious?"

Her lips formed a small smile, "I assure you, I am."

"But why?"

"Well, we all know of your background. Everyone knows that you were left to fend for your own when you were very little. Even though you, of course, do not have royal blood per say…I still see great potential in you."

This has got to be a joke, "Nobody wants me though…they all say I'm too different to be considered a Moroi and not similar enough to be called a dhampir."

"Ms. Marinov…you won't be using that title anymore…I assure you that you will be known as a Moroi throughout our acquaintances. And although you do not believe it…I think your looks can help you greatly."

This can't be happening. I don't want to live like a Moroi…even though that is what I am. I want to fight, and I want to be able to protect my friends and (now) family. I don't want to rely on someone else to save me. Maybe she will let me still prepare to become a trained dhampir. Jess let a small laugh escape her lips. Like that is ever going to happen.

"So, since you will be joining my family, you will need protection," No, I don't. Jess knew that she couldn't say that to her highness though. She continued, even though she saw Jess stiffen in protest. "His name is Guardian Belikov." Jess heard the door open behind her, but she refused to look at him. "He has been assigned to you until further notice. Under his instruction, you will learn the proper ways of Moroi." She didn't wait for Jess to respond. "Now, I have some business to attend to. Please, you can see your way out."

Jess huffed and left the room, still managing to not look at her guardian. Why can't I just protect myself? It was really cruel when you think about it.

"Ms. Marinov…or should I say Ms. Ivashkov? You have been moved to a new room for safety reasons, and I would like to show it to you."

Jess froze, how dare they just move her thing. "There is nothing wrong with the room I am currently in. It –" But she forgot what she was going to say as soon as she saw her new guardian. He was gorgeous, and that of course is an understatement. He looked very mysterious and tough. His eyes are what caught her the most. They were very intense as he watched her. She could feel his eyes searching hers as though to find out some answers. Jess did not know what he was looking for, but she believed that she couldn't help him anyway.

"So if you could follow me."

Jess followed him in some sort of trance, and when she finally made it up to her new room, she stared around in awe. There was no way she could complain about this. It was twice the size of her old room and much more comfortable. She also saw in the corner of the room all of her books. She loved to read, and was happy to see that there were new ones as well. I guess I could get used to this.

"Well, I trust that you will find your room satisfactory. The next room over is mine so if you need me, I'm right there."

Jess mumbled a small thank you. She could get used to the vast space and endless books, but she didn't know how she felt about someone watching her all the time. She stared into those huge brown eyes until she finally heard herself saying something about a shower.

He understood and excused himself from the room. She leaned against the wall for support after he left. Although if he's watching me, I guess that wouldn't be too bad…

So this is something new for me (usually I write hp) but I really wanted to write this!! I love Dimitri, and I was so sad when I read the third book. But I really wanted to try this thing with an OC lol. I hope it will be good, and I hope you like it, and I would really appreciate feedback, suggestions, whatever you have to offer! Thanks so much for reading!!