AN: Gah! *facepalm* I never intended it to be this long between chapters, but real life does get in the way… silly life. It should know better that writing comes first.

Also, I was really having a hard time getting Sookie to talk to me. Most of the time I can't shut her up, but she just sat there, in the chair, arms crossed over her chest, pouting. I did manage to find other ways of occupying my time, and the Viking was very helpful *grin*.

As always, thanks to my wonderful, incredible, fabulous, magnificent FarDareisMai2. Without her, my life would be meaningless *hugs* Did I mention how wonderful and incredible she is?

Sooooo, when last we left our posse, they were on their way to Vegas (gulp).

*

CH 21

The ride to the private airfield was uneventful. Getting the coffins on the jet and everyone else settled on the plane was uneventful. Flying at an altitude of 35,000 feet was uneventful. Even landing in Vegas was uneventful.

So why, when the transport vehicles rolled through the security gates leading to the King's estate, did I get this deep, gnawing feeling that this was the last bastion of "uneventful" I would have for a long time? I should have reveled in it, but it had quite the opposite effect.

My nerves followed me every step of the way, and Amelia held my hand as the vans came to a stop at the front steps. I still didn't understand why we had to stay here, but defying the King wasn't a possibility, so we really didn't have a choice.

We stepped out, and my eyes quickly roamed over the vast edifice that was situated in front of us. It looked like something straight out of the antebellum era – white with several columns in front, and at least three stories. I hadn't even seen how far back it went, and it was easy to tell how quickly one could get lost in there.

A tall, good looking man approached us as the vans pulled away with Eric and Pam still inside. "Ms. Stackhouse, it is a pleasure to have you here. I am Alfonso, the King's day aide." He turned to the others. "You must be Ms. Broadway and Mr. Cooper. Welcome to Vegas. If you all will follow me, I will escort you to the guest quarters in the East Wing."

Alfonso was sharply dressed in jeans and black pinstripe jacket. His burgundy shirt blended perfectly with his naturally dark skin, and his South American accent was thick, but his words were very clear.

"Thank you. What about our companions?" I pointed toward the direction the vans had headed. This wasn't the first time I had flown with someone in a traveling coffin; however, I just wanted everything to go smoothly.

"No need to trouble yourself Ms. Stackhouse. We will attend to them with the utmost care and respect. The attendants will bring them to their rooms shortly."

Rooms? Oh god, I never even thought about that. What if they put us in separate rooms? "Ma…may I ask about the sleeping arrangements?"

Without answering, he handed me an envelope marked 'Itinerary' in big bold letters, and then handed one to Riley and Amelia. "Mr. Northman and Ms. Ravenscroft will each have one as well."

The first thing I noticed as we entered the foyer was the huge crystal chandelier hanging above us. The lights reflected off every bead of glass, and I'd never seen anything that beautiful before. Alfonso must have caught me admiring it.

"It was commissioned for his highness in the late 1800's. It is made of the finest Austrian crystal there is, and if you look at the smaller pieces," he pointed to a few on the lower tier, "you'll notice that it is a diamond. There are 100 diamonds situated within the four tiers."

As we ascended the arched staircase to the right, he also pointed out a few other things. "Across the hallway is the West Wing. Please do not venture in there, as that is the king's sleeping quarters. If you look down, you'll see a doorway, to the west and the south. The west leads to offices. The south leads to the grand ballroom where the gala will be held on Saturday evening, as well as a smaller formal dining room, and the outside gardens and pool area. Below us is the entryway to the east. There is a library, a game room, and a den for your amusement. You are to make yourselves at home during the day. All we ask is that you do not venture into the west sleeping quarters, and toward the offices only if you are accompanied."

Walking down the east corridor reminded me of a posh hotel I'd seen in a movie once. The walls were covered with rich deep red, and the gold and brown embossed patterns were felt-like. The light sconces on the wall, gave it an almost royal, but dark feel to it.

I was too engrossed in my surroundings to realize that Alfonso was speaking to me. It was only when Amelia nudged me that I paid attention. He had been rattling off some other facts about the estate, and I wondered if his true job was to give tours or something. That's exactly what he sounded like, a tour guide to an historic estate.

"Ms. Stackhouse, you and Mr. Northman will be in this room. Ms. Ravenscroft is in the room down the hall on your side, and Mr. Cooper and Ms. Broadway will be in the room to the left. Your luggage and companions will be up shortly. Please feel free to relax or wander the grounds. I must leave you now, but as I said before, please feel free to wander the grounds if you like."

He bowed respectfully, and left us to our own devices. We just stared at one another, until I finally spoke up. "Why don't we get settled and then meet in my room in about thirty minutes. We can look over the itinerary then."

I closed the door behind me and looked around the room. It was easy to tell that every inch had been detailed to perfection. The walls were white with powder blue and gold inlays in every corner. Even the ceiling had a mural of the sky – blue with white clouds and bird soaring to who knows where. If I didn't know any better, I'd swear I had stepped into Marie Antoinette's room or something. De Castro pulled out all the stops on this one…or was this the way the room usually looked?

Armoires and vanity tables in light oak had been strategically placed, as well as a leather couch and slipper chair. The heavy darker blue and gold drapes surrounding the canopy bed, complimented the drapes hanging over the windows. I noticed that the windows had been fashioned from the same tempered glass as Eric's bedroom window, shielding its occupant from the rays of the sun.

The en suite was gorgeous. I could have fit at least two or three rooms in there. The design was a stark contrast to the lighter colors of the bedroom. The huge steam shower walls were covered with a deep brown tile, patterned with swirls of gold and white. The floor was the same way. Three showerheads protruded from the walls, and I wondered just how many people did they expect to shower in here at once?

The countertop marble coordinated with the browns of the shower, in gold with white and brown swirls. This whole room was elegance personified. Even the white roman bath blended easily. I squatted down and paused for a moment when I saw trays of bath oils, shampoos and conditioners, and soaps in all the scents that I liked. I stood and walked back into the bedroom, shivering at the notion that the king knew what I liked to use.

A knock on the door brought me back into the room, and at first I thought it was Amelia. When I opened my door, several servants were carrying my luggage, as well as Eric's coffin. A pedestal had been placed by one of the walls without a window, and he was gently lowered onto it.

I was handed Eric's itinerary envelope as the last person was leaving. Once they were gone, I ran my hand over the smooth metal surface, mentally letting Eric know that we had arrived safely and that he had been taken care of. I had a feeling I was going to like this new ability to communicate, at least with Eric.

Sitting down on the couch, I opened my envelope and looked over the schedule for the next three days. Everything looked fine, nothing out of the ordinary. It was what was written between the lines that had me more nervous than anything.

Tonight we were having dinner with de Castro, Victor Madden, and about eight names I did not recognize, although whoever typed up this list was kind enough to include their titles. Some of them were politicians and some were extremely important business colleagues. It didn't really make sense that Riley, Amelia and I would be invited to something like that. Eric and even Pam, I could see, because it would be good for him to make new contacts, but the three of us seemed out of place.

Tomorrow evening was less formal. It would just be the five of us and the king. The gala was what I was more interested in, though. As I read over the pages, it appeared to be a lot of pomp and circumstance for little ol' me.

After about half an hour, Amelia and Riley came over to my room to talk. "Wow, Sook. Your room is breathtaking. It makes ours feel more like an upscale hotel room, but yours… yours is fit for a queen."

I bit back the urge to tell her that that's what de Castro probably had in mind, and we went back over the schedule together. In a hushed tone, Riley came up with a plan for this afternoon. "I think this calls for some recon on my part. I'm sure when Eric and Pam wake up, they're going to want to know if I've looked over the place… 'case the joint,' as they say. Why don't you two take a walk outside or something?"

"That sounds great, but I was thinking more along the lines of what you just said. How about we each take a section of the property and do some scouting. I'm sure Eric would we happy for as much info as we could dig up."

So it was decided. I was going to check out the dining areas and the gardens, Amelia was going to check out this floor and the one below it, and Riley was going to teleport in and out of the offices, and what else could be hidden in that section of the mansion. We were going to meet back at the garden, and talk about what we'd discovered, because we were sure that the rooms had been bugged. I probably would have been disappointed at the King if he hadn't tried.

As we nodded to each other in the foyer and ventured down our separate paths, I giggled internally that it felt like we were the Scooby gang. Amelia was Thelma, smart and on top of things, Riley was Fred, in charge and a good head on his shoulders, and I was Daphne. I had my moments, but was most likely to fall into a trap or get kidnapped.

The smaller dining rooms were nothing special – one was elegant, and one was more casual. The grand ballroom was incredible. Practically one whole wall was mirrored, and I imagined that when the room was filled with people, the mirror made it look twice as large. A stage area was set up for a small live band or orchestra, and there were round tables and chairs around a beautiful hardwood dance floor. A side room held a few long tables and a bunch of chairs. Tags on the chairs read "willing donor", and I swallowed hard. It was part of the package of dating a vampire, and I probably should have been used to it by now, but still.

Back in the main part of the ballroom, there were stairs on either side of the stage, so I walked up one side. It was a balcony of sorts, where you could peer over the side and look down on the dance floor to watch. A few tables and chairs were scattered around, and there were doors positioned every so many feet, where one could walk out onto a balcony and enjoy the outside view.

Down below on the main level, across from the mirrored wall, there were several French doors leading out to the gardens and backyard. I tried going through them because I wanted to see the gardens, but they were all locked. I had no desire to wind my way back down, just to come back this way from the outside, so I decided to do it.

I looked around and sure enough, no one was around. I sent out mental signals and the nearest people I could sense were Amelia, Riley, and a couple of day workers in another part of the mansion. I stared at a spot on the path outside the door and closed my eyes, picturing it in my mind's eye. Within seconds, I felt a warm breeze brush across my cheek, and I opened them to see I was exactly where I wanted to be. Once more I made sure no one was around, and continued on my way.

The gardens were spectacular, and I could only imagine what they would look like at night, with the lights on and the water fountains bubbling. I inhaled deeply as the delightful fragrance filled the air. A couple of benches nestled off to the left would be a perfect place to meet when Amelia and Riley were done sleuthing.

Continuing down the flagstone path, I came across a large garden pond. It was beautiful, edged in rocks with a small waterfall at the very end. At first I thought it was a koi pond, but all I saw were lily pads and cool crisp water.

After staring at the pond for awhile and letting my mind wander, I walked back to the little benches and saw that Amelia and Riley were waiting for me. "So what did you guys find out?"

"Not much to report on my end, Sookie. The game room and den were beautiful, and I think you'd love the library, but other than that I didn't see anything out of the ordinary."

I sat down on the closest bench. "Riley?" I was praying he had more to tell me.

"Well, at first I didn't find anything. I was pretty discrete, but it was hard with Felipe having a few day people here and there."

There was hesitation in his voice, and I wondered if I should press him. "Did you find anything that could be useful for Eric or us to use against the king?" He shook his head and I shook my finger at him. "Don't make me read your mind Riley Cooper."

His eyebrows raised and he looked at me, and then smiled. "Persistent aren't you? I didn't have much time to rifle through de Castro's or Madden's office, but there was a locked room at the end of the hallway with a barred window. I could see beyond, so I popped in on the other side and went down the steps. There are three different corridors down there, so you have to know where you are going, but it looks like some sort of dungeon."

I closed my eyes. I'm not surprised that there is some sort of dungeon in the basement. What else would a sadistic bastard like him have down there? "It's not much, but every little bit helps, right?"

As we sat and talked, a short plump middle-aged woman scurried out from nowhere and startled us. She was dressed in a white chef's uniform and was carrying something in her hands.

"I'm sorry I startled you dear. My name is Ms. Caroline. I saw you were out here and wondered what you three would like to eat this afternoon. Dinner is not until much later this evening, and the Master left me instructions to prepare a late lunch. I have a menu here for you. If you will just tell me what you would like, I can have it ready in no time."

Food sounded good right about now, and my grumbling stomach agreed. We made our selections and handed the menu back to her. "Good. Lunch will be served on the patio today. On your way back to the house, turn right and follow the path. You'll come to the patio off of the pool."

She scurried back toward the house, oh that's rich calling this a house, and left us to our own devices. It was probably best that we not discuss the previous subject any longer, so we made our way down to the patio/pool area.

I still got somewhat nervous around water, but was getting much better. After that incident with Riley in Eric's pool, I hadn't used it since. Maybe when we got back, I would think about using it again. I could even invite Amelia and Riley over and we could have a little pool party or something. But I was getting ahead of myself. The weekend was all I should have been focused on.

De Castro must have loved water. Not only did he have the fountains and pond in the garden, but the pool was stunning. I especially loved the rock waterfall, which had cave behind the water. The cave looked big enough for two people.

Cozy.

Yes, it looks very private.

It's a perfect spot for two people to share a romantic evening together.

If it were any other place, maybe, but here?

Why not? You and Eric alone? The king will see how much you two belong together and leave you alone.

He won't. I see what he's doing. It's pretty obvious. Surrounding me with my favorite oils and fragrances is just plain creepy.

So what? Eric is not worried, right?

That bothers me. Shouldn't he be more worried about all of this?

I'm sure he is. He just doesn't show it.

I wish I had his calm exterior.

"Sookie…Sookie, did you hear me?" I shook my head and stared at Amelia. "Wha?"

"I said lunch is here. Where were you?"

I admonished my inner voice for disrupting me. "Nowhere. I was just admiring the waterfall in the pool. It's too bad we didn't bring suits."

"If you wish to go for a swim, suits can be provided for all of you."

I stared blankly at Ms. Caroline and politely declined. "No thank you. We won't be here long enough to use it."

As she turned, she gave me a look that nearly frightened me to the core. What did she know that I didn't? Ugh. Suddenly, the food on my plate didn't look so appealing and I pushed it away from me.

Riley placed a hand over mine. "Sookie, you're trembling. Are you okay? What's wrong?"

"Nothing. I've lost my appetite is all. I'm going back to the room to take a nap." I tried to get up, but with his hand still on mine, he wasn't letting me go anywhere.

"Sookie, please try and eat something. You look scared and worn out. It's going to be awhile before you eat again and you need to keep your strength up. This is Dr. Riley talking, not friend Riley, okay?"

I plastered on a fake smile and sat back down, pulling my plate back to me again and started picking at the food. After a few bites, I concluded that he was right, and dove head first into my salad, not coming up for air until after I finished my sandwich.

When my stomach was full, I made my excuses and wandered slowly back to the room, stopping to admire more of the décor. Once back in the room, I quietly shut the door and kicked off my shoes. A nap sounded good right about now, but when I approached the bed, a garment bag had been placed there. Reaching down, I plucked the little card lying on top and read it first.

Sookie,

It would please me greatly if you would wear this tonight, as token of my admiration for you.

Unzipping the bag, I practically dropped it on the bed and ran over to where he was sleeping. To an ordinary person, hugging the top of a coffin would have looked incredibly disturbing, and for once I was glad I wasn't ordinary.

Oh goodness! How sweet of Eric to do this for me. I was a little unsure that what I planned on wearing tonight would be appropriate. He was so thoughtful to have planned ahead and surprised me. I couldn't wait for him to see me in it.

I hung the dress up next to the one for the gala, and lay down on the bed. I rolled over and ran my hand across the sheets, thinking about Eric and that I wasn't into material possessions, but that if it made Eric happy to buy me something now and then, I would appreciate it for the gift it was. I pulled the top sheet over me, and reveled in the luxurious and soft feel to them. Yawning, I grabbed the pillow next to me and curled up. I'm pretty sure I was asleep before I even shut my eyes.

* * * * *

ERIC

Being able to rise while the sun was still up, had its disadvantages. However, knowing that every window had been light protected made it easier for me to move about the room. Felipe really outdid himself with the décor in the room. It looked like something out of a tawdry French novel. I have no doubt that it overwhelmed my lover to see such a room, but I saw through the charade for what it was – a cheap attempt at currying her favor.

She lay sleeping, curled up on such a huge bed, that it made her look tiny, as if she could be swallowed up. A quick glance at the clock let me know we still had some time before needing to get ready for this farce of a dinner. In any other context, I would welcome the chance to network with some of the local business men and women. I was always looking for a new venture to invest in.

However, this was not that time or place. It concerned me enough that we are staying there and were within his grasp, but I would not be distracted by Felipe's flaunting of high society. I was not impressed, and hopefully Sookie and the others weren't either. Everyone needed to be focused and on their guard that weekend.

I slipped into the hallway and walked down to the end, as I dialed Patrick's number. I would see him that evening, but there were a few things I needed to discuss with him.

Someone approaching from behind caused me to close my phone quickly, and as I inhaled, I recognized the scent. "Has everything been quiet since you arrived?"

I turned and leaned back against the railing, watching Riley coming toward me. His hair looked disheveled and he smelled of the witch. Did he not have the decency to wash up before coming to see me?

"Yes, it has actually. Sookie, Amelia and I did some looking around, but no one found anything of use, well, except for me I think."

"What do you mean looking around? You three were playing detective all afternoon? Not smart, Riley. Felipe has this place on twenty-four hour surveillance. I cannot be sure he does not have the rooms bugged, but I leave nothing past him." I was upset to think he had put Sookie at risk, and we weren't even there one day.

"Calm down Eric. She only checked out the dining rooms, ballroom, and gardens; nothing that she wouldn't have checked out sooner or later. It was the same with Amelia. I was the only one who ventured toward the offices. I was able to pop in and out before anyone saw me."

I lowered my voice since I knew other vampires were rising, and would be within earshot. Containing my desire to shove a fist through his chest, I replied coolly. "Felipe has cameras all around his estate. If you used your teleportation, then it was already caught on camera. We've been strangely fortunate so far, that Felipe has not tried anything more than a dead Were. Something is not right about this whole weekend, but I cannot put my finger on it. We all need to be on our guard and focused every minute. Be more careful in the future."

How it did not dawn on him that he was being watched, was beyond my comprehension. Perhaps being with the witch befuddled his intelligence. "You said you think you found something useful. What is it?"

He swallowed hard and leaned his arm on the same railing I was on. "The king has a dungeon below his estate. There's a door leading there from the office area. When you get to the bottom of the steps, there are three ways to go. To the right are a couple of cells, in the middle is some kind of room that looks like a medieval torture room, and to the left is a locked door. I wasn't able to go beyond it because there was a guard in front of the door."

"I appreciate your efforts, but I already know the layout of this entire place, including what is underneath. This third corridor and guarded door looks new, and I again, appreciate your efforts." I stood and began walking back down the hall, ignoring the call I needed to make. "Next time, leave the 'detective' work to me."

Yes, next time leave my lover out of it. She had enough to worry about, and I had enough to deal with as it is. I did not need some half-breed thinking he could charge in and do as he pleased. He did not fully understand Felipe's ways. I only hoped there was no damage done with his idiotic escapade.

Time was ticking away from us, and unfortunately, Sookie was going to have to get up. She looked so peaceful with her eyes shut, and her breathing evened out. She was a vision that I committed to memory so that every time I shut my eyes, she would be there.

I lay down facing her, and brushed the hair out of her face. She made a little noise and jerked her head away. Gently, my finger trailed a line down the bridge of her nose, across her lips, and over her chin. I leaned in and nuzzled her neck, placing feather light kisses up and down until I felt her pulse quicken. Pulling back, I gazed into her blue eyes and she smiled.

"Mmm, you can wake me up anytime like that, Eric." The thought of doing more to awaken her caused my cock to twitch, and I quickly quelled that notion, and willed my hardness away.

"If that is what you wish, I will wake you up any way you like, my beautiful lover. For now, though, we should start getting ready. We will have to be downstairs soon."

The smile that graced her lips immediately fell, and I cupped her cheek. "You will not be in any danger this evening, I promise that to you. There will be others around, and as soon as we are able, I will get you out of there. I, too, do not want to be there any longer than I have to."

Sookie stretched her arms above her head and rolled to a seated position on the edge of the bed. "I guess I should take a shower then."

As she headed off to the en suite, there was a knock at the door. Pam was still dressed in her travelling clothes, and was looking rather intense. "What is it? I need to start getting ready."

"Yes, I know Master. I wanted to show this to you. It was in my room when I got up this evening."

She handed me an envelope and I pulled out the card and read it. "How interesting. I know you will do me proud this evening and be on your best behavior."

The stern look I gave her told her everything she needed to know, and she nodded as she left the room. Once Sookie emerged from her shower, wearing nothing but a towel around her head and body, I could not help myself and pounced on her, like a cat attacking its prey, falling on top of her on the bed.

She let out a gasp, followed by a giggle, and I ran my tongue from one side of her collarbone to the other, stopping to pay special attention to the base of her throat. That spot always drove her insane.

Her giggles turned to moans as she tried, with very little success, to push me off of her. "I thought you said we didn't have time for this."

My laughter filled the room and I kissed her deeply for several minutes. "You are right. I need to shower and dress." I rolled off of her and sat up. "By the way, de Castro has invited Pam to be his special escort this evening, so you will not feel so alone tonight."

Her eyes widened, and as I walked to the bathroom, I thought I saw a glimmer of appreciation in her eyes. I would be there to protect her, but if, for some unforeseen reason, I was pulled away, I could count on Pam to be there and watch over her.

I took my time showering, listening to the high pitched hum of the hairdryer. When it stopped, I finished up and wrapped a towel around my waist, and opened the door. Sookie was standing in the middle of the room, garment bag in hand, her hair still damp. She liked to partially dry her hair, get ready, and then finish drying it once she was dressed. It was funny how even the littlest of things about her were committed to my memory. To me, it was yet another example of how much this woman consumed my life, and I had no regrets.

I smiled and stepped aside, allowing her to pass. Just before she crossed into the en suite, she reached out, snatching the towel from me and laughing. Ah, my little minx was making an appearance. As the door was shutting, a towel flew toward my face. "If you are trying to get me excited lover, it is working. Do not think a wooden door would stop me from getting to you."

She shouted back from the other side of the locked door. "Good, then maybe we won't have to go downstairs tonight."

Unfortunately, there was no way out of that or I would have found it already. Not stalling any longer, I grabbed the garment back that held my suit, and began my own ritual for getting ready. I dried my hair, working it into a quick braid down the back, and finished putting my suit on.

A sudden click of the lock made me stand and the door to the en suite slowly opened. Sookie stepped out, fully dressed, and I nearly dropped the tie that was in my hands. She looked incredible in that dress, a vision in blue. It wasn't the dress she originally intended to wear tonight, and I surmised that she must have gone shopping at the last minute. She was already planning on surprising me with her dress for Saturday, why not tonight as well.

As she moved through the room, the fabric floated around her legs, as if she was walking on air. Her hair was curled and pinned toward the top of her head, which elongated and showed off her long neck. The entire dress accentuated her luscious curves and the top made her ample cleavage stand out proud.

"You look beautiful, lover. Every eye will be on you tonight."

She twirled around to give me the full effect, and it definitely had an effect on me. "Maybe we should stay here. I'd rather not have everyone staring at me. Then again, this dress is incredible, and I can't wait to show it off."

Her skin glowed with a radiance that could have warmed even the coldest of hearts, and I slid my arms around her waist, pulling her into a deep and passionate kiss. Only the steady knocking on the door was able to break our embrace and I turned my head toward the door.

"Come in Pam." The door swung open and Pam strode in with an air of confidence about her. I could always count on her to look her best, and this evening was no exception. She was always the picture of perfection, even when she wore a simple, yet appropriate, black dress.

"By the way, Eric, you look very handsome tonight."

"Yes Master, I agree. You look sharp in that suit." Pam came over to stand next to us.

"Whatever will I do, surrounded by such beauty and perfection. Perhaps I should just lock the door and have my way with both of you." Sookie looked a bit shocked, until I threw her a smirk and her mood lightened as she realized it was a feeble attempt at humor.

With Sookie on my arm and Pam following close behind, we made our way to the formal dining room. Felipe outdid himself, and I had no doubt it had more to do with impressing my lover than anything. The table was elegantly set with seating for ten people, while a five-piece orchestra played dulcet tones. Pam made her way over to Felipe, while I surveyed who had been invited. I recognized the men immediately. Antonio Romani was the owner of several casinos and hotels on the strip. Denis Martin was a well-known developer and contractor. Then there was Congressman Howard Blanchette. This evening was definitely full of some of the movers and shakers of Vegas.

I felt Sookie's hand tighten around mine, and we made our way over to Felipe.

"Eric, there you are. I've been waiting for you and your lovely companion to join us. Ms. Stackhouse, have you been enjoying your stay in my estate so far?"

She swallowed hard. Courage lover, always have courage. "Yes your majesty. You have a beautiful home. Thank you for inviting us to stay here."

"Ahh, you are so kind to say. However, it pales in comparison to your beauty. Please enjoy yourself this evening." He turned to leave. "Pamela, there is someone I would like you to meet."

The first thought that entered my head was that I hoped he choked on his silver tongue. A stifled noise caught my attention and I smiled at Sookie. Her face was flush pink from trying not to laugh, and I knew she had heard what I thought.

Two of the couples made their way to the dance floor, and I stepped back, offering my hand to Sookie. "Would you like to dance?"

The musicians began to play a slow sultry tune, and she rested her head on my shoulder as the music played on. You are doing beautifully lover. I am so proud of how strong and brave you are.

I'm not that brave or strong Eric. I wish I could be, but I'm still terrified about this evening. Something doesn't sit right with me.

Maybe now is the time to test your new abilities and see if you can pick up on what he is saying.

She nodded and I spun her around and pulled her against me, my arms wrapped around her, and her head once again resting on my shoulder. We had a direct view of Felipe, talking to the Congressman.

Sookie closed her eyes and I watched as a look of concentration crossed her face. I leaned over and whispered into her ear. "If you cannot hear anything, do not worry about it."

After a few minutes, she opened her eyes and shook her head. Sorry, I can pick up a few things here and there, but it's all politics and stuff.

Then let us just enjoy this evening, shall we? The fact that Whitehorse is not here yet, means he does not plan on doing anything until Saturday evening.

That doesn't mean he won't attempt anything with me.

Before I had a chance to answer, we were called to dinner. It was interesting that there was no awkwardness amongst the guests, as the humans ate their meal and Felipe and I sipped on Royalty Blend. Talk around the table was mostly limited to business and politics. Although a few of the wives joined in the conversation, Sookie talked mostly to Romani's wife, who was sitting across from her.

Once the meal had ended, I was approached by Denis Martin, who had some ideas about developing a few acres around Shreveport. Not wanting to pass up an opportunity, but seeing as how I would be distracted for awhile, I glanced over at Pam, making sure she kept an eye on Sookie.

Every so often I would scan the room for Sookie, only to find her in Felipe's arms on the dance floor. Pam was standing off to the side watching them intensely, so I continued talking business with Martin.

At some point during our conversation, a panicky feeling rose in my chest, and I shot a look over to the dance floor. Sookie was no longer there, but Felipe was dancing with one of the other wives.

"Excuse me, please. I need to find my companion."

In a couple of quick strides, I was in front of Pam. "What happened? Where is Sookie?"

"I was just about to go after her Master. She was dancing with Felipe, and then got a strange look on her face. The next thing I knew, she was headed for the door."

If he did or said anything to upset her, I was going to slice him in half before he could even bare his fangs. The music stopped and Felipe made his way over to us. I needed to at least follow protocol and excuse myself before I could find Sookie.

"Eric, is there a problem?" Of course you bastard, what did you do to my lover?

"I am not sure. Pam mentioned that Sookie left."

"Yes, she did not feel well as we were dancing and excused herself to go lie down. If you wish, you may leave to find her." The smug look on his face concerned me, but finding Sookie was even more of a concern.

I flew down the hall and back to the East Wing. The door to the suite was ajar and when I pushed it open, she was on the floor sobbing, naked except for her panties, stockings and shoes. The dress she wore this evening was in her hands. I closed the door behind me and watched as she pulled at the seams, trying her best to make rags out of it.

"Sookie, look at me." I squatted down in front of her and took the dress from her hands.

She sat, stunned, and continued to sob, almost uncontrollably. I reached out to hold her and she scooted back like a timid mouse evading a stalking cat. Sookie ran into the corner of the room and shouted at me to leave her alone. Panic gripped her body and mind as I stepped toward her.

The door to the suite flew open, and Pam entered, followed by Riley and Amelia. Amelia took one look at Sookie and started shouting, demanding to know what happened. Keeping one eye on Sookie, I admonished her that it was not the time.

Riley disappeared, and then reappeared carrying some kind of bag. "I brought this in case of an emergency. I'm glad I did."

"What are you doing?" I watched as he pulled out a vial and filled a syringe.

Amelia was flustered by me putting her in her place, and began to cry at the sight of her friend. "Sook, it's me Amelia. Can you hear me? It's going to be all right. I'm here now."

"She cannot hear you. I doubt if she even knows it is you."

"Eric, you're going to have to hold her. I need to give her this sedative before it gets worse, or she ends up hurting herself."

My shoulders dropped. The thought of Sookie hurting herself was unconscionable. I had no choice but to move Amelia out of my way and grab Sookie, pinning her in place. She struggled, but it was futile.

Riley reached around me and gave her the shot. Within a short period of time, she began to relax and went limp in my arms. Sleep took her, and I carried her back to the bed. Once I covered her, Amelia and Riley stayed with her while I tried to figure out just what happened to cause this massive panic attack.

* * * * *

SOOKIE

Other than having Pam and that one woman to talk to, I felt very out of place. This was not my crowd of people, and even though I tried to make the best of it, all I wanted to do was go take a walk in the garden…preferably with Eric by my side.

Eric was busy talking to some man, probably about business, and everyone else seemed preoccupied. The music began to play again, and I was just about to interrupt Eric and ask him to dance, when I felt a tap on my shoulder.

De Castro stood next to me and offered me his hand, "A dance with a beautiful woman?"

I tentatively placed my hand in his, and my gaze shifted toward Eric and then Pam. He did not see me, but Pam was keeping a watchful eye the entire time.

I wanted to wretch when his arm snaked around my waist and his hand settled on the small of my back. Plastering a fake smile on my face, we began moving in tempo with the music and I wished the song was already over.

"So, I understand you took a stroll through the gardens today. I hear they are lovely in the daytime. I envy you, being able to see it like that." He leaned in close and inhaled into my neck, causing me to shudder. "I can still smell the faint traces of sunlight on your skin."

"Oh, well thank you your majesty. They are beautiful and I will enjoy seeing them again while I am here."

"Please, call me Felipe." I'd rather call you a creep, but that might be pushing it.

He closed the distance between us, and my stomach churned. It was all I could do to keep dinner from coming up at the smell of his nauseating cologne. I felt his grip tighten around me and he whispered in a hushed tone into my ear. "The dress looks amazing on you. I'm so glad you wore it for me tonight. I knew that blue would look stunning against your warm, tanned skin."

My eyes widened and I stopped dancing; at least I think I stopped dancing. Felipe was still moving, and considering he was stronger than I was, I had no choice but to follow his lead or get dragged around. Lord in heaven, he gave me this dress! My entire body felt like it was on fire from the touch of the fabric, and I paled instantly.

"Sookie, is something wrong? Are you feeling ill? Perhaps some fresh night air and a stroll through the gardens would…" He finally stopped moving me around, but the room continued to spin.

I took a deep breath and willed myself to calm down, if just for a moment so I could speak. "Actually, I am not feeling so well right now. It's probably all the excitement from traveling and this evening. If you will excuse me, I think it would be best if I go lay down for the rest of the evening."

He held onto me longer than he should have, but eventually released his hold and stepped back with a smile on his lips. It felt as if a lion's jaw had released its prey, but now the prey was bleeding from all the puncture wounds. My mind was in complete turmoil as I watched him lift my hand to his lips and his kiss seared the back of my hand.

Felipe may have spoken to me after that, but I couldn't be sure. All I knew is that I wanted to get out of there as soon as possible. I may have said goodnight, and I remembered my feet turning and heading toward the hallway. Once there, I broke out into a run and didn't stop until I reached the bedroom.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, I doubled over in pain, rocking back and forth, and praying it would all go away. It would have been so easy for me to disappear, but considering my state, who knew where I'd end up.

I reached up to wipe the tears that were falling from my eyes, and instantly realized that I was sitting there still in the dress. I tore it from my body and slumped to the floor with it in my hands. My sobs echoed throughout the room, and I only wished I had a pair of scissors so I could cut the abomination into little pieces.

I grabbed at the fabric and tried my best to rip it apart, but it held fast. The more I tried to shred it, the more my strength started to disappear. It was not how I envisioned thatnight to be.

At once a pair of arms reached down in front of me and removed the cause of my panic from my sight. The arms returned once again, and tried to embrace me, only to be pushed away, as I scurried into the nearest corner of the room.

"S…s…stay away from me. Le…ave me alone." I didn't want anyone to touch me right then.

More voices followed behind the body standing in front of me, and I turned toward the wall, clawing at it as if an exit was going to suddenly appear and I could escape. The voices behind me grew louder and someone grabbed me from behind. Before I could scream bloody murder, something stung my arm. The offended area burned for a couple of seconds, and the room swayed around me. Things began to go blurry, and a sinking feeling came over me. The last thing I remember was darkness clouding my mind.

* * * * *

Is it just me or is Felipe off his rocker? How many of you thought the dress was from Eric at first? Speaking of dresses, don't forget I will have links to the outfits on my profile up this evening.

One thing I wanted to mention before I skedaddle and work on Vegas Day 2.

Ehee and I are hosting the Naughty or Nice Contest www(dot)fanfiction(dot)net/~naughtyornicelist

It runs from December 6th – January 10th, so grab your mistletoe and writing pad, and pucker up for Santa Eric, cause he really really wants to know… just what list are you on? *smirks*