Second Chance

by ravena.thantum

It s the 21st century and Dracula is just a popular myth. Only a few know, that the legend is not fiction, but true and among them, one special person, vampire, former nun, survivor of the Demeter explosion and managed to lead a life of an independent, free, and successful woman. What happens when she discovers that her former opponent awakened from his long nap, however, disappear

6. Favourite Dracula

CHAPTER 6: The favourite Dracula

Hello my dear readers. After a short time period I am back with another chapter. Count Dracula experiences a hint of panic when watching his favourite TV show. With a horror in his voice, he runs toward Agatha and shares his worries with her. Is it that serious and life-threatening as he thought?

Enjoy the reading, my friends!

- Agatha! - Dracula enters the living room like a tornado with a terrified, worried expression on his face. - I think they're after me, they're looking for me, and they seem to be on my trail! - the alarm and the concerns in his voice are explained. Agatha just can´t understand how he came to this conviction. Did he see any suspicious cars or bulky army gorillas on the street? Hardly. The large casement windows are obscured by the heavy cream-white curtains, that prevent the sunlight to reach the inside space of the Balaur residence throughout most of the days (at least recently… Agatha truly does not remember when the house was so dark the last time before Dracula moved in). Count Dracula hasn't faced this particular fear yet, and he doesn't really intend to do so.

- How did you find out? - she prefers to ask, but she is also starting to feel worried. Dracula already has the identification documents. Legally. Genuine ones. They can also be verified in databases and they could recognize him according to the photo. But who would look for a vampire among ordinary people? In such databases? However, she turns off the sound on the TV and rather places the iron on the ironing board stand.

- It was on TV. BBC One. - with a still serious look, he throws up his hands nervously.

- On TV? Doesn't it seem strange to you that the search for you would be announced on television? By the army? Secret Service? - it sounds a little unlikely. He must now admit that. If they wanted to get him, which still can't be ruled out, wouldn't it be better to do it in silence? Agatha is slowly beginning to believe that everything will not be as Dracula thinks, and this whole situation will have a reasonable explanation. - What exactly did they say? Who announced it? - she asks him, trying to sound calm. Dracula shrugs and rubs his worried forehead.

- In search of Dracula with Christopher Lee. Today. At 9 pm on BBC one. - The Count quotes almost literally, but does not expect that as a reaction, Agatha chooses a burst of laughter. The named one begins to feel offended and demands a direct explanation, but Agatha just raises her hand to stop him.

- This is really not funny, Agatha! It concerns your safety too, my dear wife. Don't you think? Can´t you take it a little bit seriously or explain why are you laughing so carelessly? -

- Let´s say that you are a mythical celebrity and inspired many people for commercial purposes. - that doesn't explain much, and so the outrage turns into confusion.

- Open your smartphone or laptop and google the title you have cited so precisely. You will get it. -

- Can you just explain it yourself? Do you have to tease me like that? - he asks indignantly, but unlocks the screen of his smartphone, while Agatha waits impatiently for his reaction. It comes gradually. The frown turns into a surprise, but it is replaced almost immediately by a wrinkled forehead and puffy lips. At one point, Dracula tilts his head to one side, then to the other. He frowns, then raises an eyebrow in ambiguous amazement. How ridiculous he can look. He. Vampire. Warlord. Agatha evaluates, but has to admit that she likes it that way. Without a mask of perfection, she likes him much more. It is a sign of humanity, to some extent ...

- That´s an actor? Not a detective? No secret agent? - It's hard for him to believe it. That man looks serious as a secret service agent. He has the right facial expression ... at least in the count's understanding ... Agatha shrugs.

- Read his biography. He was more than just an actor. I think you'll like him. And as for the detective, he portrayed one as well. The most famous. Sherlock Holmes. Even you could have heard about him. - is she mocking me again? This is definitely how Agatha's expression looks like. Amusement. He looks at her once more, a little offended, then back at the phone and scrolls down. At least I heard about that one.

- That is a documentary, but why ...? - he doesn't even finish, losing his speech for a moment. - He PORTRAYED me? Movie? About me? Agatha! - the former nun bites her lip and smiles, nodding.

- And it was probably the best adaptation, yes. Not authentic but portrayed you quite well. I mean, the role of a vampire. Not that messy or theatrical, but you can´t have it all. - Dracula still can´t believe his own eyes, thus Agatha continues. - They've made a lot of movies about you, Vlad. All an adaptation of a book by Bram Stoker, but where he got it about you ... that should be somewhere in the library if you're interested. -

- Are you telling me that now? - the older vampire sounds a little offended. After all, he has been at home for a little over 2 months, during which time he managed to learn how to use the Internet and television, read a lot of books, but surprisingly, he did not think of searching for his name or links associated with him. Mrs Balaur rolls her eyes.

- You may be surprised, but my mind doesn't just revolve around you. I have more important things to do. You found it out, so what? - then she takes the hanger with his shirt from the ironing board and hands it to him.

- Hang it in the closet. Right now. -

- Are you there too? In that movie. My nun? - without a protest he takes the white shirt, but does not leave yet. Agatha just rolls her eyes again.

- No. But a Van Helsing is one of the main characters apart from you. Just look it up and go. -

- What if we did a Movie Marathon night? Hm. You and I? - How did this idea occur to him?

- Oh God! - It's hard to say no. Agatha also wants to see the expression on his face when he sees himself, but in a different form. - Just play it now, when I have a work to do in front of TV. I don´t want to waste my time with movies I already saw. - She doesn't even know what a joy those words bring him. Just the look at his face says a lot. Once again, a wide smile shines on his face without the pinch of sarcasm, amusement, malignancy that characterized the type of nonverbal communication in Dracula's past. Genuine smile of a true happiness. What a little thing like watching TV can do with a 5 centuries old vampire with the scariest reputation. So human-like.

- I´ll be right back, darling. - he hurries to the office, taking his laptop and within a minute, like a professional, connects it to the giant TV he purchased last week.

- There are over 30 Dracula movies though, Vlad. Some of them make entire series. -

- So many? - he is impressed. - So much interest in me? - Impressed by himself. Agatha just rolls her eyes, ironing another of his shirts.

- If your ego could be sold, Vlad, we would make millions because yours is inexhaustible. -

- And in spite of everything, you said yes, Agatha. - he snorts contentedly and smiles happily.

- Business contract, remember? - He shouldn't have called it that. The sweet talk did not persuade her then, nor the pleading looks, just the logical approach.

- Honey, that was the most effective way to convince you. - a foxy smile with a hint of mischief returns to his face. - So which movie from those 30 will you recommend? - Agatha doesn't have to think for long. She has her favourites and the more than one.

- First, from the year 1922, could scare you. You look awful there. - But Nosferatu amused her. - Look up Dracula from 1958 with Christopher Lee. It should be stored on Netflix. - she advises him when a beep sound indicates the end of the dryer machine drying program.

- I´ll do it, Agatha. You can look up the movie. - this offer comes surprisingly. Dracula doesn't help much with housework. So far, he has decided to fill and empty the dishwasher at most. Agatha would like to hire a cleaning lady again, but it can still be risky. Mrs. Balaur nods and is setting up the film while Mr. Balaur empties a dryer. The premiere, which he takes on with a cheerful whistling. He opens the dryer and starts taking out warm, fragrant and soft clothes (amazing time, no starch, no fading colours ...). The laundry basket is almost full when Dracula discovers 2 pieces belonging to Agatha. He opens his mouth in silent astonishment, swallows empty, his imagination begins to work at full capacity. It looks like a wider lace, but it's not quite like that. Underwear. The panties and bra, which are almost transparent, do not cover much, but rather reveal.

- But where can she wear it? And why? - he frowns. Jealousy darkens his mind again. - When was the last time she wore it? - looking at the magnificent pieces, he immediately imagines them on Agatha. At first, he sees her in front of him in a blood-red dress, which he gradually undresses and lovingly admires the black underwear on her snow-white body. Count then begins to pull one bra arm out of her shoulder with a wide smile, then the other, slowly unfastening the hooks at the back. Quickly getting rid of her bra, he clings to her lips, easily imagining how they would taste, as if her long fingers were playing with his black hair. Maybe she would pull him a little, tilt his head back and bite into his throat. He would like to experience that again. Gradually she sighs longingly in his arms and, in the imagination, begins to take off her panties as well. Then he would embark on a real seduction and subjugation of her body ...

- Are you all right, Vlad? The film is ready. - Agatha speaks, tearing him from his erotic fantasies just as he has heard from her the first delightful, aroused exclamation of his name.

- I am coming already. - his voice sounds slightly strangled; however Dracula stands up with a basket full of clothes, with incriminated pieces of clothing on top. Almost rock-hard, he enters the living room again. Agatha with smile takes the basket from his hands and directs him to the couch. As soon as he sits, he asks the incriminating question.

- Agatha, the top pieces. When and where do you wear it? - he twitches and looks at her inquisitively, with unfeigned curiosity ... horny. - And don´t say it´s none of my business. - Agatha gasps and reddens in cheeks, something that has not happened even once during her immortal life.

- It is warm outside, even for a vampire. That´s all I got to say about this topic. Now play it! -

- Hot. - he repeats, grinning ostentatiously. - You must be, hm. -

- Don´t smile and watch it. - the vampiress frowns again, cursing that she agreed at all at his willingness to empty the dryer. The fact that he could discover just these pieces of her clothes did not occur to her at all ...

- You are blushing. - pointing out this obvious fact, he receives only a scowl in return.

- You are annoying. - Dracula shrugs, running his tongue over his lower lip, which Agatha can't stand and throws an unfolded towel at him.

- Today is hot as well, my dear. And I am a curious man that does not give up until satisfying his curiosity. Hm? Wanna help to undress? -

- Don´t you want to rather know what the other world looks like? I can send you there with a one-way ticket. Be done with this and play it finally! -

- As you command, my dear. - the film finally begins and Vlad Balaur concentrates fully until Agatha catches up and joins him on couch.

- This is my favourite Dracula. - she admits pointing on the tall actor that looks majestic in his castle.

- Favourite actor playing me, you meant. - a little correction in his opinion is needed. Not in Agatha´s

- No. You misunderstood. Favourite Dracula. -

- I am your favourite Dracula! You married me! Twice. At least. - Agatha gives him an all-telling look. Really?

- The first time involuntarily, the second out of coercion. But Christopher Lee, hm. He was more charming, taller and has better behaviour. If you saw him during the war years. - she remembers with a nostalgic sigh. - Attractive man, thick black hair, funny and how good he looked in uniform. The week he lied in Carfax Clinic in the fortieth or forty-first year. I didn't know yet that he would play you one day. - the knees of almost all nurses we weakened when they had been around the handsome soldier, a secret agent then. She looks dreamily at him, just to sigh. Maybe a little disappointed. At least in Dracula's understanding.

- That's not fair, Agatha. I don't compare you to that Van Helsing. - o yes, the real Dracula sounds affected, wrongly. After all, the positives, the traits she has just named, perfectly describe his person ... thick black hair, stout figure, military career, the behaviour of a real gentleman ... usually ...

- You can. Feel free to say that you would rather deal with Abraham. I would recommend you Zoe's father, his namesake. Annoying person. - she shakes her head, with an unpleasant memory. - And don't frown. You look at least 5 years older when you frown like this. Not a very flattering look, I must say. And don't crouch, straighten or start training, Vlad. -

- Agatha! What do you want to say? -he already sounds outraged, really affected. Agatha just shrugs. - I am not fat. That's not fair. I'm happy with you, darling, and you're just provoking me all the time. -

- But you can irritate me too. All day. Is that fair? -

- At least I don't look at other women with pleasure, undressing them in my mind, darling. - looking directly at her, he recalls the scene/imagination from the bathroom. - I'll make do with you, Agatha, and you should make do with me. - Agatha wants to blow, but she's not going to stare now. Count is a little right. Honestly, she's fine with the imagination of his naked body ... but she doesn't need to chit-chat about it, especially not with him.

- Then you'll have to try harder, Vlad. Bad luck. - she shrugs innocently and looks back at the screen, mysteriously biting her lower lip. A wave of excitement arrives immediately.

- Try harder, you say, huh? - he grins mischievously, with a myriad of ideas, that in his opinion should fulfil this wish. A turbulent mood change ... - Should I sneak up to our bed in the middle of the night like your favourite Dracula? -

- You already do. It doesn't work. - since the wedding he stopped the night visits (a marriage of marriage contract), it is true, but even so it is not written anywhere that in a few days it will stop and Agatha will wake up again with his hands around the waist. And he'll look like it's the most normal thing in the world ...

- I can kidnap you to my castle. - he lowers the voice to a dangerously attractive tone level. Lion of the salons. She can imagine that very well.

- You don't have one. - Dracula snorts and waves his hand.

- In England. But that can be changed, Agatha. - he unobtrusively reaches for her hand and pulls her into his arms even more unexpectedly. - Everything can be changed, honey. In particular, I would suggest changes in the bedroom first. You and me. Naked. Together. That fake Count from TV can't give you that. - Before Agatha manages to realise the meaning of those words (and the ideas that creep into her mind. God!), Vlad kisses her on the lips again, this time truly passionately, without restraint. Agatha does not believe her own nerve receptors. His nose, which must have been broken at least once in the past is buried in her cheek. His lips directly hold hers in a passionate kiss, which changes from gentle to covetous and vice versa. If she needed to breathe, she would have probably passed out already. And his chest. It's stuck to her, pushing her into himself even more like he would like her to be a part of him. Agatha is paralyzed. Only her lips move, her hands somehow resting lethargically on his shoulders. And his palms? God. They get under the hem of her blouse, his fingers slowly wander over her skin, that is immediately covered in goosebumps. It's exciting, intoxicating, irresistible. For the first time, she softens happily as Dracula slowly unbuttons the hooks of her lace bra as well. It would be so easy to succumb ... just close your eyes and let yourself be carried away ... and then fall in love with him and face disappointment later ... he just cannot be capable of such emotions too ... wrong ... we can be friends, eventually, but nothing more ... business contract ... that´s it!

- Stop it Vlad. - she protests eventually and grabs his biceps tightly. - You just can´t ... - she moans, ashamed that she likes it. Touches. Kisses. Him.

- Darling, hush. - Vlad strokes her cheek and, barely detaching his mouth from her, lies her on her back, her bra pulling under her loose blouse. Lace. She is indeed hot ...

- No. - she says vigorously, a little bit shaken from the heat she feels between her legs and by some miracle she pulls out from under him. By raking her white bra off the ground, she abruptly leaves the living room.

- Agatha, what ... where are you ... - he rolls right after her. He doesn't get it. She was responsive. He felt her lips move, her body curling beneath his. He started it, but at her instigation, but Agatha was also actively involved. - Darling, wait. I am sorry. I thought you ... that this was what you wanted ... - he calls for her desperately, confused, not understanding. What other effort would she expect?

- Just leave me be, Dracula. - Agatha though does not react to his pleads, only shakes her head. Oh yes, she is frustrated on herself mainly, indeed it was mostly her mistake. To provoke him this way and not thinking about the consequences or the way he would understand her words. Of course, he would think of sex! He is a man! Now she needs to be alone for a while. Contemplate in peace about further actions. She just can´t accuse him of everything that happened few moment ago… she was more than responsive, after all. The only option is to disappear somewhere he would not follow her. Agatha is thus approaching the entrance hall, sunken in the afternoon sunlight passing through the large glass door. Dracula can hardly believe his eyes. Did I overstep that much this time? Contemplation follows. Was it too much? Am I repulsing her so much? That cannot be true! But she can´t do that ... that´s too drastic. She is just teasing me. Right? Yes. This must be it… he tries to persuade himself, still eyeing her fast-moving figure, but Agatha continues walking further away from him, closer to the door, to the sun. His eyes widen in horror. Just one more step. - Agatha, no. Please. - he takes one long jump, nearing her but not quickly enough. - I will behave. I won´t touch you again, until you tell me it´s ok. I promise! Darling! - he pleads with big puppy eyes, sincerely. It's too late however. Agatha is quick as well. Horrified Dracula stops abruptly at the spot, expecting painful shrieks of agony. Agatha´s disappearing is instant. Ashes of her slim body though do not cover the hardwood floors. Not yet. The door is open, and shut in the same moment. She is gone. No trace of her, just a small twirl of dust particles raining down, bathed in the deadly sunlight. He hears nothing, just falls down on his knees, hitting the hard floor. She is gone. His Agatha is gone. Forever. She abandoned him, left alone. In an anger. Fed up completely with him. He did not expect this. He is certain, she enjoyed the teasing eventually. No matter what she said. He could see the sparkle of amusement in her pupils. I am a beast. Indeed. Nothing more. Agatha. My dear Agatha. Sparkle of my newly found immortal life has chosen the death rather than being with me. How could she? How could I? He is asking himself constantly. Until now he truly believed that she actually wanted to stay with him, willingly, however, this time he was mistaken. It´s been ages since he felt so desperate. Maybe centuries, or the 1st time ever. Sadness is slowly overwhelming him, even tears are trying to accumulate in his eyes. Forgotten emotion since his childhood is rediscovered by her departure. Ashamed, he wants to break something, maybe kill someone… or disappear as well.

Agatha was after all special for him. My wife!Never before has he met such a woman: intelligent, funny, caring, wicked, his perfect opponent and partner at the same time, simply that missing part of him. If he had a working heart, it would be hurting madly … even now he can feel a hint of pain. A heartbreak. First ever. He travelled to the New World with her by his side, planning to make her his. I made her already mine! Completely. At first, it was a mere need, wish, to win over her, because at the convent, that woman drove him crazy having such power over him - frustrating, annoying but at the same time, her curiosity, fearlessness, attracted him even more than her sweet, exquisite, newly discovered taste. At that moment he knew, she was the right one. What´s more, when he first sunk his teeth into her neck, he discovered another long-forgotten feeling. Hard like a rock, he listened to her soft moans (so sensual and tempting) until she passed away and he had to admit, that the passion felt even better than that sourcing from feeding (so unusual, so new…). A dream come true that should have had lasted forever, yet now Agatha is gone. Damn it, you fool. You are left alone. The only being in this whole world, same like you but much better, rather died than look at you one more time … few more moments pass when the slightly creaking sound of the door being opened can be heard.

- Vlad. - he hears his name pronounced with her voice again. At least she is still in my mind. Dracula though reacts only with a saddened sigh, still kneeling on the floor, averting his eyes from the cursed entrance hall. - Vlad. - again, Agatha calls his name, this time louder. Dracula feels a soft, warm touch on the cold skin of his hand. Slowly raising his head, he can see the face of his beloved.

- Agatha? - the older vampire can´t believe his own eyes. Is it a vivid hallucination? His desires taking a form? The former nun is however smiling - warmly, curiously - and more than real. Frustration seems to be gone, or at least successfully supressed for the time being.

- Who else calls you by your name, hm? Stand up and come with me. - tempting offer, but little suspicious. Dracula is startled, his mouth wide open.

- How is it possible, Agatha? - standing up, he follows her, holding her hand constantly. - I saw you in the sun? -

- Well, you shouldn´t believe all the nonsense superstitious tales and legends. Most of them are fake. This certainly is. Haven´t I disproved the reliability of most of them already? - Agatha wants to laugh, seeing that perplexed look on his puzzled face as well as a hint of fear, that grows with every step toward the sunlight.

- What are you doing, Agatha? - is it a hint of panic? Definitely. - Do you want to punish me? I apologised. It won´t happen again, unless you want. -

- No. No punishment and the 2nd thing … that´s for later discussion. - she sighs, not eager to return back to the topic again. Not now. The passionate moments of previous 10 minutes must be put to the back of her mind. - Just forget it. - She is still angry (mostly directing the anger towards herself), had no time to think about it further but the loud sound of something hitting the floor hard after she closed the front door behind herself, made her return back to the house. - I am taking you outside, Count Dracula. It´s time for you to discover the world during the day. It´s much more exciting than the nightlife. -

- No way. She will kill me, Agatha. Sun is deadly! -

- Oh, will she? Isn´t that my job? - she mocks him, amused by this sudden change … but understandable. Never saw she this desperate look before.

- It´s not funny, Agatha. - Dracula sighs, looking once at the wide strip of the sun on the floor than eyeing Agatha´s face.

- Dear Lord! I have been wandering during the day constantly for 123 years, Vlad. - she needs to persuade him now. He deserves the right to walk on sunshine again. Thus, she decides to confide in him with another private memory. - Waking up, already a vampire, on the sandy beach, just when the sun was rising above the horizon … I thought what a beautiful way to die, get rid of the unwanted immortality. Being blessed with the last look at the Sun before burning…Nothing happened. I did not feel any pain, just warmth, that our bodies desperately lack. - she keeps smiling, her face glowing with so many beautiful emotions. - Come with me, husband. - she adds, calling him like this first time ever. This warms the long-dead heart of Transylvanian warlord, that doubted its existence for centuries. Vlad Dracula smiles lightly, however is not that eager to try the sunlight on his own skin.

- I felt the pain, Agatha. Every time. Just a reflection of sun can burn me. Do you really want to lose me this way? - Agatha just rolls her eyes and Dracula seeing her counter-arguments written on her face, continues explaining why it is not a good idea. - Look, darling. Maybe it is different with you. I am a beast; you have never been. I am cursed, damned by the day. That´s my punishment. -

- Oh, what have you said about your blood flowing in my veins? That it makes us the same? I am marked by your sins, just like you are marked by mine. It´s all in your stubborn head. - as to add more relevance to her beliefs, she tips gently Vlad´s temples, with a constant grin on her pretty face.

- No. - frown does not leave his eyebrows, neither his high forehead.

- Try it. Don´t be a coward. You are a warlord not afraid of any pain, aren´t you? - such an open provocation!

- I don´t want to! -

- Oh, don´t be so childish. - well, he is being scolded like a child now … - You are not a little boy anymore, be a man. - this really has a wished effect.

- Don´t you dare to say, I am not a man, Agatha! - he groans and looks one more time at the sun-covered entrance hall, than on Agatha, that already released his hand and again overstepped the shadow boundaries.

Illuminated by the sun´s glory, she outstretches her hand for him again. Dracula´s fingers lightly touch hers and are caressed by the sun at the same time. He expects pain, agonizing torture and at first ... well it stinged a bit.

- Trust me. Look at me. I am alright, you will be too. - eventually, Dracula nods, with a heavy sigh and follows her instructions.

- If something happens, Agatha, don´t you think, you will escape the punishment. -

- I am sure, I will stand no chance. - Dracula though hesitates, not persuaded completely. Agatha just rolls her eyes and using her strength, pulls him unexpectedly to herself … expecting the worst, he closes his eyes … and … it tickles at first, not hurting as usually. Is this thank to her blood? Maybe. Or did she rid me of all the remnants of my sinful blood? That´s the only reasonable explanation he could think off.

- Open your eyes, Vlad. - such gentle tone of her voice, almost caressing. He though listens to this request and his lips immediately stretch into a wide smile.

- So beautiful. - he whispers, gazing through the door outside.

- And it can be even more. Just step outside. Touch her directly. Come to the garden with me, hm? - it sounds heavenly. The combination of the Sun and my Agatha.

- Wouldn´t it be too much? In one day? -

- No. Come, Vlad. Don´t be a coward. -

- I am not! - to prove his truth, still holding her hand, they both step outside. Immediately he feels the warmth of the sunlight, sunrays caressing his bare forearms and pale cheeks.

- Gorgeous. - Dracula whispers, astonished. She is much more lovely than he could possibly imagine or remember… warm, full of life. - So beautiful, my dear. Thank you. - unexpectedly, Dracula wraps his arms around Agatha´s waist, hugging her closely, caressing her back. Mrs. Balaur holds the breath, she no longer possesses. Speechless, startled. Expecting a gentle kiss again however, Dracula still looks at the sun, in a speechless awe, enjoying this moment, feeling to the fullest. After all, he has not experienced anything nearing this moment for almost 5 centuries. Maybe longer. A perfect woman in his arms and the sun, he feared and yearned to see for such a long time.

- Now, let´s go to the background garden. We don´t need all our neighbours to gaze at us. -

- Will you lay with me on the grass, my dear? - a surprising proposition, indeed … tempting at the same time … no, it is not. Not after the realisation I just had 10 minutes ago.

- Maybe. - this answer is enough for him. Full of promises and excitement. As tempting as it is to kiss her right there, in front of all the possible bystanders, Dracula supresses his urges for now and follows Agatha to the lost paradise …

-/-

With a soft blanket in his hand, she turns off the film and the TV, which they will watch maybe in the evening, after sunset, and leaving the yard Agatha returns to the small garden behind the house. Dracula, with his hands in trouser pockets, stands at the flowerbed and, amazed, full of emotion, stares at the sun-drenched sky. For a moment she feels sorry for him. How long has he deprived himself of this feeling, punishing himself (rightly ... he did many things for which he should have been chastised). After a short while, however, she begins to enjoy the image of the man in front of her. Contemplating, Agatha thinks again about the moments on the couch. How she felt, how she enjoyed it, how it reminded her of the dream of almost 2 weeks ago (which she almost forgot about again). Once she succumbs to him, she is quite sure of that. Well, it can't be that soon. First, I have to be sure that it will make sense, that he will not disappoint me and that he can be an almost ordinary (though unusual) man. Not a monster. Finally, still unnoticed, she spreads the blanket on a soft lawn and decides to get his attention.

- The blanket is ready. - she lets him know. Hearing her voice, Vlad immediately turns to her and smiles. Satisfied. Cheerful. Happy.

- It's perfect. Isn´t it? I truly forgot the feeling of warmth on my skin ... well not skin directly. - he always felt that when he clung to her, or when they were naked together ... even when she was an extraordinary mortal. -... but my body never felt it since my death. I am warm again, Agatha. - he laughs and walks towards her.

- I could not even imagine that I would need to avoid the sun for almost 5 centuries. - she is not a creature of the night at all. Yes, she can stay up 2 or 3 days at a time, being awake during the night and used this mainly to work hard in the clinic, but she would never change the sun rays for the moonlight itself. - Sit or lay down finally. - again, he nods and follows her instructions, choosing the lying position. He then offers his hand to her and waits full of anticipation to see if she decides to join him this time without coercion. Fortunately, Agatha, fully clothed again, accepts the offer and sits down next to him, lying down at a safe distance from him. Definitely, she does not want to risk another outburst of passion, to which this time she might surrender. They both look at the sky, warming themselves pleasantly. It's a miracle for Dracula. It is as if a new life force is pouring into his veins with the rays of the sun touching him. However, the silence is only short-lived.

- So how am I supposed to try, Agatha? - he asks her without remorse, indeed with interest and need for advice. Agatha turns her head to him, staring to the chocolate irises:

- You're trying, Vlad. I know it. -

- So why did you say it was insufficient? -

- Because I like to tease you. You win more than I do so far, don't you think? - Dracula blinks, thinking about it shortly, too. The wins. The most important thing was her survival and successful transformation. Subsequently, he survived experiments in the laboratory because she came for him. She took him to her house, gave him a home. She cared for him all day and night. Only thanks to her is he probably still alive. She married him without undue pressure. What´s more, she gives him hope that one day they will be much closer. She gave him back the sun. He just had to give up killing. However, he does not suffer from hunger, he can choose food according to his interests without tiring search, and although it has always brought him a feeling of pleasure and excitement in the past, now all this is replaced by Agatha. His beautiful wife.

- You are right, Agatha. Honestly. I gained much more than you, meanwhile the losses are minimal. - he nods again and reaches for her hand a little hesitantly, gently grasping it in his own (much warmer than ever). When Agatha does not pull her hand out of his in disgust, he is greatly relieved. Now he's waiting for what she has to say.

- Fine. I admit, - she takes a deep breath. - It is not that catastrophic having you here, Vlad. Your company is a welcome change, though sometimes frustrating. - the vampiress also admits this, not only so as not to unnecessarily inflate his ego. He must also realize that. - I know it's not the easiest way to adapt to a new lifestyle, not after you've been used to something completely different for 4 centuries, and I know it will take a while, but - Agatha shrugs, turning her face away from him again and looking at the sun, while Dracula anxiously awaits what she will say next. - I'm sure you can finally do it. Perhaps without major complications. -

- Will you ever really trust me, Agatha? Can you do that? - he asks her too, but no longer looks at the sun. Now Agatha is his sun, after all. An unquenchable flame of heat, whether it is day or night, the only creature in the world that can warm even his cold heart. - I know that it can be difficult with me and given our common past, the way we met and all the other things you know about me I am really not surprised that you have trust issues. - on the contrary, if anything, she pleasantly surprised him. - I just want you to know that I'm serious. I will strive to be a better immortal man. Because of you, my dear. - Does that sound convincing? Will she believe that she is my everything? I need to convince her; I can do it ... can he say those words at all? He's not sure. He's not even sure if he knows exactly what it means, to care for someone so much, to love, because he's never raised anyone above himself, haven't loved anyone ... he can do it! ... not myself, but someone else. You, my dear Agatha! - And without ulterior motives. I don't want to risk that you will leave through that door one day and never coming back. - Agatha loses her words, her ability to react and is really glad that Dracula is momentarily not looking into her eyes, but at the sky. Otherwise, she would risk tears. It's almost like a confession. In a way, it springs from the depths of his heart, and Agatha knows it must have cost him a lot of strength. She always felt that he was mostly himself in her presence, not wearing a mask, she could always see through his pretence, but it is different to talk about life and daily activities and then about something that can be considered feelings, although she is not sure if anything similar, he can feel and manifest. Being so used to the beast sticker, might make the process of peeling it off difficult. However, only one person can uncover his human side, and fortunately that is Agatha. She squeezes his hand and silently nods. Dracula is satisfied with this reaction. However, he would not expect the following gesture even in the most beautiful dream. Agatha, still holding his hand, leans her head against his shoulder, moving toward him on the blanket a little more, her shoulder partially touching his. At that moment, Dracula wants to pull her back to him, snuggle up to her, hug her, kiss her ... but this time overcomes this urge. Step by step. He reminds himself. Although in a panic attack, however he promised her less than 30 minutes ago, that he would not do anything without her approval, against her will. Agatha still feels small embarrassment, being emotionally divided. On the one hand, she would like to snuggle up to him, on the other, she would rather leave the blanket immediately and sit under a pergola a few meters away. The contact she has made with him, which she has allowed herself, is a golden compromise that can give comfort and partial relief to both.

- I need some time to get used to this too, Vlad. It´s a new situation for me as well, hm? -

- We have the rest of eternity to succeed and get used to it. For me, it's worth to wait and be patient. - 123 years has been already a long time, eternity seems to be even longer ... at least he has more experience with such long life and that is useful, will benefit me too. They both fall silent again, fully enjoying the sun's rays, and finally Agatha closes her eyes. She had not lost the sun, but now imagining what a wonderful feeling it must be for the Count, she appreciates his continued presence in her immortal life even more. Everything finally looks idyllic and calm, when the perfect atmosphere is interrupted by the ringing of Agatha's phone in the pocket of her jeans.

- Turn it off. - Agatha suddenly opens his eyes and does not respond to Dracula's silent request. An unknown number can mean some telephone survey, but also an interesting opportunity.

- I have to. It can be something important. - Dracula just sighs, because Agatha immediately answers the call, suddenly sitting down, which breaks their physical contact.

- Doctor Balaur on the phone. - the call begins with an introduction. Dracula rises on his elbows, also listening with interest. Agatha's concentration grows, her enthusiasm multiplies with each new word, and similar emotions are essentially shared by Dracula. If Agatha is happy, so is he. Five minutes and the call is ended. Agatha finally rises with fervour and starts laughing.

- Did you hear that? - she asks him quite unnecessarily, knowing very well that his hearing must have picked up every syllable of the telephone conversation.

- Yes darling. - a smile is also on his face; his eyes are filled with pride. The Count also sits down. - Your research and hard work will be duly rewarded. Congratulations. -

- Well yes. - Agatha nods basically, biting her lower lip. - The work will be published in the Journal of Leukaemia, in an issue that will be published tomorrow. - This is nothing new. - I didn't even know we took part in a contest. Little did I know that our work was selected for the narrower circle of this year's ESMO Awards. - if possible, she tried to avoid that much publicity, but the success that her latest research has achieved and the positive results of experimental treatment at the Carfax Clinic definitely deserve attention. After all, other clinics and hospitals can apply them to help even more people. Although Dracula had the opportunity to find more information about the Carfax Clinic and Agatha's research, he had not yet come across this acronym.

- ESMO? -

- European Society for Medical Oncology. The most prestigious medical award in my field. - She rubs her hands enthusiastically again. - I have to tell Mike. - male name. Dracula frowns, trying to remember if he had heard such name mentioned by her before, his forehead wrinkling in unrest.

- Who is Mike? -

- My colleague and friend. Didn't I mention him yet? - since she had told him enough about Carfax, she assumed that she had already mentioned her colleague, Doctor Sparks, several times.

- No. - Mr husband's expression is not enthusiastic after all. Every man in Agatha's life is a threat to him in his mind. - Competition? Should I be afraid? - Hardly. Agatha would like to laugh at that idea. Mike Sparks would never court her, not because she's a vampire though ...

- His late great-grandmother was my best friend and appreciated colleague, a physician just like me. I helped to bring his grandmother and mom to this world, even attended his every birthday party since he was a little boy. So, what do you think, Vlad? Is he? - Dracula shrugs. With Agatha's appearance, he would not be surprised if the nominee tried to woo her.

- He knows who you are? -

- Yes. He does. - No need to ask ... - Now, if you excuse me, I have to inform him. Enjoy the last sunrays. - before she walks through the French window leading into the bedroom, however, she turns to him again and repeats, still a little disbelieving the news that she has been announced a moment ago. - Isn't it amazing? -

- Worth a celebration, Agatha. - Dracula nods and adds a little more seriously: - I am proud of you, even though you don't need my praise. - but every compliment pleases as well as the feeling of having someone to share the joy with, not only with four walls or for a while via the phone. Agatha suddenly has a desire to give joy and the closest person she can give it to is Vlad. Therefore, she returns to the blanket and, bending down, kisses him at least on the cheek. She even wraps one arm around his neck, slightly brushing the hair on the nape of his neck. Even Agatha has to admit that it's nice.

- Thank you, Vlad. - straightening again, the happy winner of the most prestigious medical prize gives her husband another smile. - Praise is always welcome. Even that from you. I'll be inside. - The hug in his understanding is short, but better than nothing. In fact, after running away from the living room, he thought he wouldn't be able to get close to her anymore. Definitely for some time. After she disappeared from the sun, he thought he would lose her forever. Fortunately, this did not happen and it looks like they are on the right track ...

- Anytime, Agatha. I´ll stay outside but when you finish, let me know. We can still watch that movie from earlier. - Agatha just nods and leaves the garden. The lord of the night lies down on a blanket again and immerses himself in his own thoughts, which are dominated by Agatha ...

-TBC-

This is how I imagine Count would react when discovering how popular he is among the mortals. My favourite Dracula (well, Christopher Lee definitely is on the same level as Claes Bang for me, at least in the role of Dracula … he has a special place in my heart ) is Agatha´s as well and I really can imagine the face expression upon discovering the preferences of his wife. I also wanted to add a little tension to the story and hopefully managed it well. As you could notice, the vampire pair is becoming closer and used to live together.

At last, but not least, I would like to thank all of you for so many kudos and few comments that already appeared here and as well, motivate you to comment even more. I want to know your feelings about it and opinions too this is something the author lives for apart from dreaming about his favourite characters and putting those ideas on a virtual paper.

Next update will be posted soon as well, bringing many fond memories …