Dracula enters the open world of the 21st century for the 1st time, safely under Agatha´s supervision. As always, our dear vampire can resist and really tests Agatha´s patience...

Hello guys, where the last chapter ended, this one continues and takes the Balaurs to the shopping mall and even out. Even though Agatha feels remorse, she must admit that Count´s reappearance in her life isn´t as unwanted as she would like it to be...

I hope that you will enjoy the story and its progress and leave some reviews as well.

CHAPTER 4: Evening outside

Although he never drove the car himself, he had constant remarks all the way to the mall (slow down … do you want to kill us? … brake! … those grimaces), and Agatha did regret that she hadn't had a duct tape in her purse to seal his mouth. The relief on both sides came only by parking the car in the underground garage and turning off the engine. This is the moment of truth. The door opens and Dracula officially enters the outside world of the 21st century. In the parking lot alone, they meet about 10 people, they share the elevator with 4 other people and Agatha is looking nervously at her companion all the time, observing any possible signs of his blood-lust. She watches cautiously for every slight movement, the shudder of his body, but she notices nothing. To her surprise, it does not bring her relief, which Dracula notices very well. The elevator door finally opens and the cramped space immediately grows in size.

- Why are you so nervous, darling? - he asks her as soon as they leave the elevator. The whole space is immediately filled with even greater number of people. - You don't believe your judgment? - Agatha gives him an inquisitive look that could penetrate his soul if he had one.

- I don't believe yours. Maybe it's too early. - she started doubting this whole event while driving to the city. Dracula just rolls his eyes. Agatha and her mortals ...

- You fed me. I am not hungry now. Relax Agahta. This is not the first time I am walking among living people. - Maybe not, but now is the first time he does not intend to send at least a few souls to the other world quickly. Agatha shares this theory, and no wonder. For him, blood is not just about survival, but also about fun ...

- Let´s be honest. - she clearly explains her point of view to him. - You don´t need to starve to start killing. Just a hint of interesting fragrance and you act all crazy. Like a dog. -

- Well, I would appreciate in the future if you compared me to wolfs instead. -

- Sure, wolfs are wild beasts, dogs domesticated ... nothing like you. -

- Would you like to domesticate me, Agatha? - he smiles provocatively, running his thumb and index finger over his lips in a well-known gesture. - Keep me on a leash? - Agatha just sighs, adjusting the loop of her purse on her shoulder and shaking her head.

- I would appreciate it if you behaved like a human and tried to be less selfish. At least in public. - Then it could be bearable with him. Perhaps. Nothing in her voice sounds provocative or sarcastic. Just a sincere request. - It's possible, you just need to want to. -

- Do you realize, Agatha, that you can't change me overnight, don´t you? -

- Of course, I do and I don´t expect that it will be easy process after the kind of life you previously led, but I also know that you can integrate into the society of ordinary mortals, although only for selfish reasons, for amusement, inducing tension, you are indeed a brilliant actor, but now it's not just about you. - this monologue may have been done sooner, but Agatha only now admits that with his behaviour and the sweet words of an experienced seducer, Dracula got her where he wanted them. Dracula's face is serious. Yes. After all, he is no longer the only vampire in the area (Agatha is reminding him of this new fact daily…), and as he managed to convince himself, he is not as unstoppable as he had previously believed. - Understood? I don't want to live in isolation on the fringes of society just because you get bored and kill the whole neighbourhood. You also threaten me with your actions, and even though I know that you can only think of yourself or your own good, and you don't really care, I would appreciate it if you tried to be a little considerate at least once. -

- Agatha, it´s you and I now. - he frowns a little that Agatha has such doubts about him in this regard, his dark eyebrows for a moment forming a continuous band in an obvious disagreement. - I´ll do my best to keep you safe. - she can see sincerity in Dracula's eyes, but can't afford the luxury of trusting him. Yet. Mrs. Balaur just sighs again ... quite often given the fact she is a creature that doesn't need to breathe.

- I'm not so sure about that, Vlad. -

- Then here's your leash, Agatha. - offering her his hand, giving her a strange, confusing smile whose significance Agatha cannot explain. - Let me just remind you, that this was your idea and if you want to educate me or teach me your manners, the practical lecturing is much better than just a theory. There has to be a hint of trust, hm? -

- Fine. It will be a test then. Fail it and you will spend the rest of your immortality caged. - instead of some pungent remark in the slightly grumpy style that Agatha would have expected, Dracula begins to giggle.

- You know, Agatha, - he decides rather to explain his action right away, because his wife doesn't look enthusiastic. - the idea of you and a cage with me somewhere around is quite erotic. - Agatha groans, not amused at all as quite vivid pictures of such imaginations crawl back to her mind, again bringing her to the Budapest convent gates, that reminded her of a real cage. Blood. Excitement. Animality. And, oh yes, the erotic look of the famous Count Dracula. A forbidden fruit in all its grandeur ...

- Disgusting. - she snorts, amusing her partner. - Let´s get you the phone and leave. - hand in hand (this way she can really control him better, navigate to the right direction ...) they are looking for the right shop, surprisingly without unnecessary words. Each one is a little immersed in their thoughts, Agatha additionally in remorse as well. She's starting to like it a little bit. Not walking alone in the open space, but like many shoppers, look for the right goods in pair. This should not be the case. She should be disgusted by him (not that she ever truly was), hating him, ridding the world of his existence, but ... his need to have a companion, someone who knows the whole truth about you, knows what it's like to be in your shoes, after so many years of lonely life dedicated only to the help the other, she understands now. And unfortunately, the only one who understands me is he ... Vlad Balaur, Count Dracula, my worst enemy and deceased husband in one. Dracula's thoughts, in turn, do not wander within such gloomy spheres. Fine. He is sorry that Agatha has such a low opinion of him, but he admits that he is partly to blame. On the other hand, he is not blind and over the centuries he has learned to read people. But not Agatha. Not completely. She was always an unsolvable mystery, always full of surprises and contradictions. Even her blood didn't reveal much about her, that's why she was so tempting ... not only because of that though ... I have an attractive, intelligent and so challenging wife ... a dream come true, isn't it? Just to convince her that this is how I perceive her and she can also perceive me ...

-/-

In the electronics store Dracula can to her initial surprise navigate quite well. He isn´t lost in all that new technology as one would expect from an over 500 years old man, that slept for over century missing all the progress of the age. As always, he knows what he wants and does not hide it, on the contrary. Being a man that thinks highly of himself, he likes to show off his knowledge, be boastful, once again making seller with his knowledge and specific questions quite uncomfortable. This is when you can appropriate the knowledge of others. He brags about foreign feathers. His knowledge int the first few seconds really surprised Agatha until she remembered once again that Dracula was no ordinary man. Last but not least, according to the statistics on her blood bank mobile app, lately Dracula has consumed almost exclusively the life-giving fluid from the IT specialists.

- Only your smartwatch will cost me more than my phone. Modesty or moderation tell you nothing. Do you really need it? - she asks him when he starts rummaging through the smartwatch offer.

- I just want the best, Agatha. - he retaliates, but does not even look up, continuing in his search. - Get yourself a new phone too if you want. I am sure we have enough money. - finding perhaps a winning piece, he finally looks at Agatha again. - At least I hope you haven´t spent all my fortune and the solicitor tomorrow brings only good news. - a lawyer. The initial information about his arrival greatly upset Dracula. - Why? We don't need a solicitor, Agatha. - he closed the refrigerator again and placed the phone on the counter. He could think of only one reason, so he frowned in disapproval. They are finally beginning to understand each other. He quickly got used to the current situation and would not exchange his new home for any luxurious castle unless he was living there with Agatha. - If you think I will agree or even discuss a divorce, or how you call it, you are wrong. - Agatha just raised an eyebrow, sincerely amused. Who would have thought that the idea of divorce could come to his mind? In fact, she expected Dracula to ask for a lawyer first. This is how he is indirectly dependent on her ...

- You are legally dead for 123 years, Dracula. No need to divorce, since ... well ... it says until the death do us part ... doesn´t it? - but he had no reason to smile. Agatha just rolled her eyes and smiled.

- I called a lawyer because of the formalities. If you want to walk in public, you need certain legal documents. Citizens' card in particular and whereas, as I have already mentioned, Mr Balaur has been legally deceased since 1897, you need to be issued a new birth certificate. Then there are the essentials of your property, accounts and access to them. You certainly have a lot of questions and you will want to know how I handled the property and the lawyer will explain it to you better than I do. -

- Like I said, Vlad. Since you are legally dead and I am the only „living" relative, the legal heir, I don´t have to give you anything. The fortune is mine. - such an innocent smile in his presence has her face not yet produced. - It all though depends on your behaviour. -

- Oh Agatha, just admit that you want me to be completely dependent on you, constantly having me behind your back like an obedient puppy. No need to cut me from my money. I am not going anywhere. I promise. -

- We will see. Now get your things and let's go. I have a videoconference in 2 hours. -

- Who can call you that late? Surely no one from work? - he can't imagine which of the ordinary mortals would work after 9 pm or what couldn´t wait so urgently until the next day.

- That´s none of your business. - She likes the way it irritates him. She never thought that one day she could evoke jealousy.

- I fit concerns you and someone that is not your colleague then yes, young lady, it is my concern too! - to demonstrate his rights, he pulls her closer and kisses her lightly in front of everyone. Since they are in public place, she can´t protest physically and slap him for this wicked deed. Luckily, it's just a short kiss ... or unfortunately? Such short ones have usually deeper meaning ... now you are an expert in kissing too, Agatha? She scolds herself ... the passionate ones stem just from feral instincts. Usually. When she is released again, she gives him mixed look and hisses.

- We spoke about it, Dracula. Don't do it. I am not interested, understood? -

- I wouldn´t be so sure, darling. - he blinks at her and strokes her cheek softly. - If not yet, which I doubt, then give it just a few days. - Agatha cannot refute a certain attraction, but she was always strong enough to suppress bodily appetites. And now I can do it too ...

- Then know something, Vlad. The marriage certificate of yours is already outdated, nothing more than just a piece of useless paper. You were proclaimed dead the same year it was made and technically both attendees are long deceased. I am not that woman anymore. I was born in the year 1983 officially and believe it or not, my husband is dead again, thus making me a happy widow. - Count hasn't thought about this little detail. For all his undead existence, he did not need any official documents. He does not like these novelties of the time, which he also shows with his facial expression. Suddenly he feels uncertain. That's for sure. Agatha, however, has the upper hand, and this time his fate seems to be entirely in her hands. - But let´s not trouble yourself with that now, Count. Enjoy the shopping and the luxury of this age. You have that smartwatch, I hope. Phone and laptop are already prepared. Now we just need to pay for it. - Dracula, startled for a moment, just gazes at Agatha speechlessly. This is a harsh realization. - Vlad? -

- Yes. I have everything I needed. - his mood drops considerably, which does not go unnoticed. That depressed gaze and a momentary absence of words evoke remorse in Agatha. After paying a considerable amount for new electronics for Mr Balaur is Agatha trying to sound a little nicer.

- Now we can look for some clothes for you too. What do you say? -

- That´s not upon me, is it? - he answers a little icy, childishly offended.

- Don't be childish, Vlad. - she willingly takes his hand again - Come. - commanding innocently and squeezing his cold hand as if nothing happened, Mrs. Balaur talks about shops he may like. Dracula follows, frowning for a few more moments but as soon as they enter the first shop of the most expensive brand, a hint of smile decorates his stern face again. Stepping inside, the handsome appearance of legendary warlord attracts attention of all shopping assistants and soon he is presented with a collection of new, fancy, expensive suits. The ladies fly around him, flatter him, glancing at Agatha, who prefers to sit on the couch, watching the vanishing silhouette of her vampire…

-/-

- Agatha, darling, I would appreciate your help. - his smiling face leans out of the cabin, looking for Agatha. He is once again the centre of attention. Definitely the most handsome man of the day. If only they knew ... With a sigh, Agatha gets up from the comfortable seat and walks forward. The group of assistants suddenly disperses and the area of changing rooms remains empty.

- What do you need, Vlad? - she asks with raised eyebrows as he peeks out of the door of the dark black cabin.

- Doesn't that sound better that way? - he notes more cheerfully, but prefers not to wait for an answer, the door a little deviated. - I could use a little advice. As you know, I can´t trust the mirrors. - another rumour made up by his mind. Agatha never had a problem with mirrors. She can always see herself in them and even after all the time, she looks unchanged … as it should be. - Definitely, I want this suit. It is surprisingly fitting even if not custom made, don´t you think so? - He looks really good in it. Dracula gives the impression of a serious business man and a charming professional, which is basically his second nature. That is, a very good pretence, a remnant of a time when he weakened the knees of every young lady of any ball season with his gaze.

- Yes. It looks good. Even on you. - Dracula sniffs contentedly. That is enough for him as a compliment.

- But I can't decide on the right shirt. Look at this. - he unbuttons the buttons on the dark grey jacket and shows himself clearly. What does he intend again? However, her mind asks, seeing no difference in what he is wearing and what is hung on a hanger in the corner. - And now this one. - as if on command Dracula takes off his jacket and in the blink of an eye a shirt. Except for his pants, nothing covers him anymore and he obviously doesn't care. But not Agatha, who hears the approaching footsteps of 2 men and 3 assistants. They don't have much time left, so reacting instinctively, she pushes Dracula into the cabin and pulls the curtain behind them. The space is cramped suddenly and he smiles again. She still didn't take her hands off him and pushed him against the mirror.

- You can´t just strip yourself in a boutique! - she starts scolding him, whispering.

- In a men's boutique, Agatha. I'm sure it wouldn't surprise anyone here. You don´t want to share me with anyone, huh? Not even a single look and ... - he prefers to stop the forming objection and a pungent remark about his conceit quickly. - I won´t share you. - he folds his palms on her hips. - Which one then? -

- All of them if you want, just let me go, you infuriating vampire leech. -

- You got us into this position, darling, you are holding me. - peeking hungrily at her lips, he resists and lets go. - You can´t blame this just on me. - Agatha did not expect the release to come so quickly. She was hoping ... no, no, I just expect him to kiss me again. Against my will. As is typical of him. She also removes her hands from his chest, hastily handing him his black T-shirt.

- Dress! -

- So which shirt, darling? -

- Take both. I am waiting outside. - he shrugs, pulling the cabin hinge gently behind him. - And hurry. -

-/-

- Agatha, you do realize, that you can't just throw me away like a piece of garbage, don´t you? - he no longer likes her long silence. After all the information she had so hastily announced to him in the mall, his mind does not lack scary scenarios. Agatha nods, but carelessly continues to drive in the still relatively busy traffic, despite the advanced evening. - By freeing me from that military base, you signed the verdict yourself. If you really wanted to have peace from me, you should have left me there or killed me on the spot. - That way, she would protect her beloved mortals from me once and for all. He tries to seem relaxed, as if he still had everything under control and does not doubt his convictions for a moment. From Agatha, who turns on a blinker and concentrates on turning into one of the smaller side streets, which, however, does not lead home, Dracula gets no reaction. The black audi is parked, the engine shuts down and Dracula gets even more nervous.

- Get out, Vlad. - she instructs him casually, dangerously calm in his understanding. However, Mr. Balaur immediately begins to protest.

- No. Take me home! - he crosses his arms in a defensive gesture on his chest and stubbornly looks at her. However, Agatha unbuckles her seat belt and loosens his as well.

- You wanted to see the city, didn't you? You probably don't want to roam here during the day. So get out of the car. - seeing as he masterfully purses his lips in the protest, she just shakes her head and rolls her eyes. - I really don't want to leave you here, Vlad. You would find your way back anyway. - However, Dracula is constantly looking at her with some doubts, with narrowed eyes.

- Doesn't the video conference start in 20 minutes? - he asks suspiciously, as if he was really waiting for Agatha to drive home without him as soon as he gets out of the car. The former nun shrugs.

- I postponed it to tomorrow. - she retaliates. - Take it as a reward for today's ... not entirely flawless, but acceptable behaviour. - Despite these pleasing words, Count Dracula does not feel the desired relief. Yet ...

- / -

- Basically, you have two options. - Mrs Balaur continues after a short pause and settles on a bench under a Japanese cherry tree. - Either you return to your previous way of life and terrorize your surrounding with killings and some other atrocities. - she grimaces a little disgusted at the thought of some possibilities, which Dracula immediately notices. - Or you will start to behave in a cultured way and adapt to the age, the possibilities it offers you. As you know, it works, and the excuse that you're hunting for your own survival is out of date. You know that. -

- Would you really let me just kill people? without consequences? - it's unbelievable, unrealistic in his understanding. - You, Agatha Van Helsing, the protector of the weakest, vampire slayer? - Dracula also settles beside her, keeping his eyes on her. Agatha shrugs, but practically nods.

- I have never killed a vampire, Count and I am no longer a Van Helsing, as you already know. - the betrayal of her own family was enough for her to give up this surname. - I am though doing my part, trying my best to be helpful and benefit the humanity by my research, work, financing the Carfax and Bistritz Clinics. - with her generosity and knowledge, she has really helped many. - The other things need to be managed by someone else. I am not the saviour of the world and luckily, have learned that over the time. - Agatha shrugs again, looking for a moment at the full moon above them. It's a beautiful, warm night, not the best for such serious conversations in such a romantic setting, but it still has to take place before the lawyer arrives the next day. - It's up to you this time, Vlad. Always was. - to convince him of her truth, about the correctness of her own lifestyle is at least worth a try. - If you select the 1st option, you might be easily traceable and the army might get you second time. This time, however, no matter what you think or believe, I wouldn´t blink an eye if they did so. - I gave him a chance once already. For the first time, he didn't deserve it if he got into a similar mess a second time with such way of life ... well ... - I have better plans for the future than to waste time with your foolishness and lack of self-control. So yes, I will let you choose freely and I promise not to interfere at all in a such case. -

- Meaning? - he is curious, but not because this offer sounds overly tempting. He would be able to avoid problems. He wouldn't get caught, but he wants to know exactly what Agatha is up to.

- Well, our paths would logically separate for good, all the contacts would be cut. You must understand that I don't need an army to trace me too just because of your selfish thirst. - There is still a risk that they will track her down, albeit minimally, but that would increase if he started to act as usual. - Even now, it´s not the best idea to stay in contact with you and in such case, it would be unacceptable. Surely, the fortune would be split, it would be unwise to let you go without money. - or would it be easier? - I´ve been thinking about it and honestly, I would prefer if you moved to another country in such case. The world should be big enough for the two of us to never meet again and live a comfortable life, unaffected by the other one. I have my Clinic here, few mortal people I consider friends, that know who I really am and would miss me like I would miss them. - Dracula's jealousy level increases. Possessiveness takes control over him and he frowns deeply, profound wrinkle crosses his forehead. In his mind, Agatha is simply his. Forever. Nothing else is acceptable.

- It might not shock you, Agatha, but I don´t like the consequences, you just named ... a little well-known vampire hunt from your side wouldn´t be a bad thing. I can be the bad boy, you the hunter. - he does not even want to imagine the final loss of Agatha. Once was enough for him. Agatha, however, clearly shakes her head in disapproval, saying emphatically:

- I said, I am not interested, Vlad. I have my own life I quite enjoy and no intention to change it just because you re-appeared in it with the need to kill. You are a fool if you think I would sacrifice it on your behalf. - she smiles indignantly. Dracula purses his lips again.

- Alright. - he nods at last. - Let´s discuss the 2nd option then. What was it? -

- My life-style. - her tone of voice is immediately a little less sharp. - Rich variety of high-quality samples of your choice from Carfax, purchased ethically. No mess. No victims. Much more time for everyday life and what´s more, freedom from the addiction rooting from the chemical processes in your brain when you hunt and kill. - although this theory is not yet fully substantiated by scientific facts; she does not kill and has no other vampire to investigate it further; but it is a logical explanation. - You could adapt into the society, I am sure about it, enjoy the life as it is, find new hobbies, maybe better purpose of your immortal life. Simply, you can be anyone, except a monstrous killer, that is. - Agatha can imagine him in the position of a capable businessman, a skilful financier and even an avid scientist. He himself does not even know how amazing it can be today, with the technology available, and it seems that Agatha would be happy to introduce him to these possibilities as well ...

- And what about us, Agatha? - Dracula asks the most important question. Even if their relationship in this case should be the opposite of the one that comes from the first lifestyle option, he has a very clear idea about it ...

- Us? - Agatha repeats with absent surprise, seeing the growing hope in his eyes. - I would be still supplying you with blood, logically we would need to stay in contact. - she suspects, well, knows what he's coming across. Dracula raises eloquently his eyebrow.

- The thing is Agatha, that I want to stay in our house. - he emphasizes and reaches out for her hand, expecting that Agatha will pull hers out of his reach, but this does not happen, and so he finally closes her smaller hand in his own. At the same moment, however, there is a burst of laughter in the background, which draws the attention of both and then the noise of the shattering glass, which lands just inches from the pair in a serious conversation and hit Dracula's calf. At the same time, the faces of both vampires turn in that direction. Dracula stands on his feet straight, ready to attack a drunken group of about 5 men and four women who have interrupted his speech.

- Vlad! - Agatha calls his name at the last moment and also stands up immediately, holding his hand firmly. - Choose wisely! Kill them and after tomorrow, you will never see me again! - it is an effective threat that immediately forces him to think about the possible consequences. Agatha isn't kidding, that's certain. So, he looks sideways once at the annoying youth, once at the relentless, tense Agatha. Despite the fact that he already drank today, his appetite for blood is growing, although he knows that it does not stem from hunger ... they angered him, and this cannot remain unpunished ... but there is much more at stake than momentary satisfaction. He may succumb to his tastes, but he will be forced to give up Agatha. To be alone in this world again, to live with the knowledge that she is also walking on this planet, perhaps by the side of another man, enjoying life to the fullest, while he will only murder, to return to an empty, quiet abode, to search unsuccessfully some bride, even though he has already found (and would lose) his wife ...

- Let me at least scare them. - he sighs, averting his chocolate brown eyes from the nearing group, giving up his addictive tastes. For her ... Agatha is relieved. She herself doesn't know how she would behave if she smelled so much shed blood at once. She doesn't dare say what would happen to him after consuming so much blood with high level of alcohol.

- How? - Less revenge, of course without injury, would not hurt. And he deserves a reward.

- Like this. - Dracula tilts his head back and a thick mist starts to come out of his mouth. Just like on Demeter, the surroundings now begin to be shrouded in a mysterious fog that surrounds the approaching figures. Suddenly confused screams can be heard when they become blinded and can't see even the tips of their noses. Now Dracula starts laughing mischievously, dragging Agatha with him. Even she cannot forgive a pinch of amusement from this tense situation and also takes part in this sweet revenge. She can finally cast the fog, too, and it soothes Dracula's soul. She is my perfect partner in crime. So much like me ...

- You wicked woman! - teasing her in amusement, earns him a punch in the shoulder. In any case, he is amazed by her performance.

- What would you say to some bats, darling? - again using the familiar names and good mood. However, she is not enthusiastic about this idea, which she also shows with a sour smirk.

- Those are annoying. I am not really a fan of them. -

- Just for the effect. - he winks at her, giving her wide, seductive smile. Agatha just rolls her eyes. He just won´t give up!

- Not necessary a good idea. - but it's too late. In a few seconds, as if from nowhere, a whole herd of black bats appears in their sight. It flies around them in close proximity. Agatha almost jumps on spot when one of those small, flying creatures almost entangles in her hair. Dracula makes good use of it and pulls Agatha closer.

- You did it on purpose! - she reproaches him with a slight outrage in her voice.

- Of course, I did! - contentedly Dracula admits even this assumption, shifting from foot to foot. - Don´t you hear those horrified shrieks? What a wonderful melody. - She didn't mean the tension in the background, rather the embracement …

- Sadist. -

- You know me well. - he admits and is completely relieved when Agatha starts to smile amusedly. Her amusement grows even more, the moment the last bat flew over them, leaving a small gift on the shoulder of Dracula's jacket. She also bursts into laughter, suppressing the terrified roar in the distance to the background of her mind. Laughter is also multiplied when looking at Dracula's facial expression, who is betrayed by his servants, if the bats obeying his orders can be called that. In his face an indignation and great disgust could be noticed. And when the blood and entrails of the wolf covered him, he did not stir an eyebrow. He enjoyed it. And the perverted part of her self, basically too. The sight of his naked body at least erotically overcame the disgust of his incarnation.

- Wait, I'll clean it for you. - she offers, by suddenly pulling wet wipes from her purse and wipes the bat secretion from the dark blue jacket as quickly as possible. - I told you, the bats are unnecessary. Overly dramatic. But no, you like to show off. - she continues chuckling, entertained by his suddenly grumpy look.

- Next time, I will call wolfs. - with still visible disgust, he observes the quick work of her hands.

- If you say so. - all done. The accident is a thing of the past, although the jacket will need to be washed thoroughly. - You can call them off now. I think our companions have already enjoyed them all the way. - Dracula nods, and although the screams delight his ears, in the next moment the bats fly in all directions, this time without an accident. However, the fog continues to blind the drunks.

- So, how do we solve it, Agatha? - Dracula raises his eyebrows inquiringly, suppressing his urge to gift her with a thank you kiss. In that moonlight, her eyes, the colour of which matches the shade of her dress, shine so beautifully ... - I practically know what I want and I suppose you want the same. -

- Probably. But no guesses. Say it directly, Vlad. That would be best. -

- Alright. - the moment of truth is finally here. - It´s time for change, I admit. The risks are bigger than the benefits, but I have some conditions too. Only 2, to be specific. - Agatha only now raises her eyebrows, furrowing slightly.

- I am listening. - a curiosity overtakes her fully.

- We will stay together. I will not leave our house. And the lawyer will renew the marriage certificate and its validity. We will be legally wedded, Agatha. Again. -

- This could be considered a blackmail, Vlad. - she warns him, even though does not think this to be such a bad idea …

- It´s a fair business contract. -

- Business contract. Nothing more. - she did not expect him to feel anything towards her (at least nothing romantic), of course not; but after all the words he said and gestures he has made … that was little bit cold … more like him, though. This way it will be easier…and after all … he will be supervised by me … always was a good companion … why not. - Fine. But there will be rules to follow and … - that´s enough for him. His cold approach doesn´t last long and again, he holds her in his arms, clutching her lips between those of his, leaving her speechless.

- one of those rules is no kissing. It´s business, not romance. - another frown follows quickly and an innocent smile as a reward …

- Sure. - again, he winks at her from this proximity, which could mean only one thing. He is not taking this particular rule seriously. Agatha just does not know if this makes her angry, or on the contrary, quite satisfied. As it seems, only the future will show …

-TBC-

Regarding the further development of the story, I already have several ideas, few partial chapters are already written, but I cannot say when a complete chapter will be updated. However, in covid quarantine, I will have more time to finish the story...

what´s more, there is an idea for 2nd story in my head, that somehow complicates my focus :) maybe later. Anyway, I am still waiting for some comments and their absence is a little demotivating and saddening as every author likes some response, comments, interaction. don´t hesitate to leave some, if you like the story. it does not take that much time and surely will bring a smile to my face :) until next time, friends

P.S.: on Tumblr or AO3, you will find me under the name LeaCottilard /