Darien gently helped Serena to her feet, letting her regain some of her
balance by hanging on to his arm. Beginning to walk, Serena suddenly
stopped, "I can walk myself Darien. I don't need help." she said nicely.
Darien smiled, "Of coarse you don't, but It's not everyday that I have a
beautiful, talented, woman in my house hanging onto my arm." He said
chuckling. Serena shook her head and smiled through blurry eyes at the
remark, but didn't say anything about it. Instead, she just let Darien help
her, figuring that the only way she would spare confrontation, was to just
go with it.
He walked her through his house, answering some of her questions about certain artifacts he had decorating his home. Finally coming to a long dinning room, he sat Serena down in a chair near the head of the large wooden table. Sitting at the head himself, Darien smiled smugly, while Serena glared a little at him, then brushed it off. 'Whatever.' She thought bemusedly. Folding her hands on the table, Serena let out a sigh and looked at him head on, "So, I believe you have some things to tell me?" "So I believe you have questions." He remarked. Serena groaned, and leaned her head on the high backing of the chair, "OK, so I can ask anything?" she said, looking up at the ceiling. Darien nodded his head, "Yes you may." Serena looked back down at the table, chewing her bottom lip in thought. What could she possibly ask first? There were so many things she didn't know, that she didn't understand, "Darien, maybe it'd be better, if you just told me." "About my life?" He inquired. Serena glanced at him, "yeah, that. Just tell me about you,..... I guess." She said while playing with her fingers.
Darien sat back in his chair, and folded his hands across his abdomen, "You want to start from there then?" he said. Serena nodded, "Sure, I mean, if you feel like it. When did you become a,..a." "Vampire?" "Yes, a vampire." She retorted, angry with herself for not having the guts to say it in the first place. Darien smiled, "I wanna know.." Serena cleared her throat a little, fidgeting. "Like, were you married? Did you, did you have children or anything, a family, parents?" she asked, not taking her eyes off the table. She was completely on edge, and couldn't understand why. Ten minutes ago, she had been ready to kill the man, and take out all of her hurts and frustrations out on him. But now, she didn't even think she could bare the thought of him ever being married. It was as if realization about the man next to her had set in. He wasn't trying to undermine her, or trick her, he was just, helping. Though she had no idea why. She knew he had saved her and Molly from Damien and Samuel that night, and even protected her from him again at her apartment. He'd even picked a fight with a girl, and a vampire woman must have been about ten thousand times worse when it came to their emotions, than mortal women.
Hearing him clear his throat, Serena looked up at him, eyes glazed in thought, "What?" she asked. Darien chuckled, "So, that's what you want to know then..If I was married." he said. Serena smiled unnaturally, "Yeah." She replied. Darien smiled, "Yes, I was, and I had a child." He said. Watching the smirk fade from his face, Serenas eyebrows furrowed. The fact he had said yes had done something to her. She felt hurt, but not over the reason he had been married. "What happened?" she asked quietly. Darien twiddled his thumbs, something Serena found amusing till no end. "Hmm, well.." He began, not showing any emotion on his face. Though his eyes spoke volumes, " It all started about, oh, two hundred years ago, maybe more.." He said nonchalantly. Serena leaned in on the table, "I was Darien Albert Brenham. Duke of.." He looked at Serena, as if in thought, "Well, I was a Duke. Though, I'd rather not say of what." He said. Serena nodded her head, "It was 1773. I was 26 years old then." Serenas eyes went wide in shock, "1773?" she asked. Darien smiled a bit, " Yes, and I was Married to the most beautiful woman ever imaginable." He said, his eyes staring straight into hers. "I don't think there was a woman who didn't envy her. She had the looks of a goddess and the personality of an angel." Serena fidgeted, feeling like she was 13 years old. 'How does he do that?' she groaned inwardly. "She charmed everyone she met, though...she also had a strong spirit that couldn't be broken. Perhaps, maybe.." The timbre in Darien's voice became a little shaky then. Darien swallowed hard, "Perhaps that's what led her to her demise."
Darien stifled a whimper, but was unable to control the single tear that fell form his left eye, and onto his clothing. Serena gasped slightly, moving her hand from the table to his face. Whipping the tear away gently with her thumb she smiled sadly, not understanding her sudden action. Though the look Darien gave her made her trance like state fade. Aware of what she had done, she moved her hand away slowly, but was suddenly unable to bring it back to her person. Darien had caught it, and gently pulled it back to his face, kissing the back of it gently. His eyes not leaving hers. Serena gasped in surprise. "Serena.." He whispered her name huskily to himself , as he turned her hand over to have his head cradled in her palm. Hearing a deep throated growl in his throat, Serena watched him close his eyes as nuzzled her palm lightly.
Feeling herself go lax, Serena raised her other hand to cup the other side of his face. Darien greedily took that one as well, and kissed it, burying his face both her hands. Serena sighed, a relaxing feeling sweeping through her. A warmth that she couldn't explain. As if this were perfectly natural, like she had done such a thing before, with the very same man. Sighing loudly in unrealized content, she watched as Darien suddenly looked up at her, holding her wrists lightly in both of his hands, while a dreamy frame of mind clouded her thoughts.
Getting up from the table, wrists still in his hands, Darien kneeled on one knee by her chair. Eye level with her. "Serena?" he asked. Serena just looked at him, "Yes? She asked. "Do you want to hear more?" he whispered to her. Serena shook her head a little to clear the phantom haze muffling her thoughts. Eyes staring straight back into his, a crease of uncertainty formed on her brow, "Darien? What is all this?" she whispered back. He only smiled, while standing up. Still holding her wrists, Serena could only follow his motions, and stood as well. Only to find herself practically pinned against him. With his quick, flawless movements, he obviously had moved his hands from her wrists, to place them on the small of her back, holding her against him snuggly. "Darien?" she asked, realizing her position, but not really feeling a need to do anything about it. "Yes?" he asked, pressing his forehead against hers, head bowed to look her in the eyes. Serena felt the heat of his skin radiate from him to mingle with her own. The smell of his cologne, the wisdom in his eyes, and build and look of him, it was so familiar. "I thought,..I thought I couldn't be, manipulated." She said shaking a little. Darien grinned, while Serena seemed to feel each muscle that allowed him to do so, move against her in some way. "You can't." he whispered, his lips a mere inch away from her own. Serena stopped breathing, "Then,.." She swallowed nervously, "Then, what do you call this?" she asked. Feeling a slight dejavue hit her, she heard Darien laugh, "I told you Serena, I'm only offering. All you're doing, is giving in,..." Leaning further in, Darien allowed his lips to linger just on top of hers, gently brushing them with his final words, "To what you want"
With that, Darien captured her in a heart stopping kiss. Serena took in a sharp breath, eyes wide in surprise, but slowly closing after the moment of shock had passed. Relaxing, she sank into his embrace, wanting the full experience. He gently kissed, and suckled her lower lip, producing sounds of satisfaction and pleasure from her. Serena, fully enjoying the moment, could do nothing more but move with the rhythm his mouth gave her. From one side to the other, Serena found with each turn and movement of her head with his, she became more entranced by something so indescribable, she wanted to feint. Feeling his lips part against her own, Serena allowed him to fully kiss her. Opening hers shyly at first, she soon became more daring, allowing herself to let go, for once in her life. Basking in the warmth, and feel of the man holding her, she moved her arms from between them, to wrap around his neck. Allowing her fingers to run relentlessly through his raven hair, Serena moaned quietly in delight. 'What have I been missing all my life?' she thought to herself. When suddenly, she was answered, 'Me' said a voice. Though, it wasn't a voice. Opening her eyes, Serena stopped.
She hadn't heard the answer, yet she had. Inside her head, she felt the voice, vibrating inside her. Darien suckled on her lips a few more seconds, before pulling back to look at her face. His arms still woven tightly around her, he refused to let he go, though she was obviously shocked, "I see you've discovered my secret." He said smiling. Serena pushed away from him suddenly, but found herself unable to leave his grasp. He just smiled, "You mean, you've, you've been able to read my mind this whole time?" she asked incredulously. Sudden reality crashing down on her. Darien smirked, "Only when you've wanted me to. Otherwise, I just sense your emotions. I would hardly call that mind reading." He said huskily, kissing her forehead lightly. Serena gaped at him. What was she thinking? Kissing a complete stranger!? Let alone a vampire. But God, he was addictive, like morphine for the soul. She felt happier when she was with him, at ease in a sense. "Darien, this..this...." "Is moving too fast?" He asked sheepishly, nuzzling her neck. Serena grunted, taking her hands and undoing his from her back. Stepping back a few steps, she huffed, it was too much. "Darien, you were married?" she asked, remembering what he had said a few minutes before. Darien smiled sadly, "Yes, I was. But I believe I've found her again Serena." He said, walking closer to her, and gently caressing her forearms. Serena shivered, "What? ..um.What do you mean?" she asked, very much distracted by his touch. Darien leaned in, "I believe, my dear Serena, that you are that one I'm looking for." Serena shook her head a bit, "Huh?" "Well, it seems my theory was correct Serena." he said, wrapping his arms around her again. "It seems that reincarnation, has produced for me, another reason to live." Kissing her cheek, Serena closed her eyes. She had heard what he had said, but didn't feel surprised by it. To her, it even seemed strangely logical. He was obviously a very spiritual, deep person; it was almost predictable he would seek her out for some reason such as a past life theory. But Serena, feeling suddenly three feet tall, bowed her head, and pushed away from him gently, and this time, he let her go.
Taking a step back, she looked back up to him. And this time, she really looked. He was handsome, daring, mysterious, protecting, loving, caring, intelligent, and very, very wealthy. Scanning the room around her Serena let out a breath she didn't realize she had been holding. A woman had tried to kill her earlier, a woman who was obviously jealous of her. She had said that she wasn't half as good as she was, that nothing was as good as the original. Sulking a little, Serena gave a lithe smile, she was so stupid. He thought she was someone she wasn't, that was why he had gone through so much trouble. Never mind the fact she felt something towards him, who wouldn't? After all the things she had listed him to be, vampire or not, he was the perfect man. Something that didn't exist, at least not for her.
Resting her left hand on one of the high backed chairs, Serena leaned her side against it, "Darien, I think,..." she licked her lips nervously, glancing at the floor, then back up at him, "I think that you should reevaluate everything you've just said about me." She said, staring at the floor. "I'm not who you think I am. And I don' want you....I don't want you having any feelings for me, when I'm not what you expect me to be" Letting out an emotional sigh, she stared at her feet, when she saw another pair standing right in front of hers. Looking up quickly, she saw Darien standing disturbingly close to her, not touching her in anyway. "Serena..." he growled lightly, studying her features with slight movements of his head. Sweeping a piece of hair behind her ear, Darien kissed her temple and whispered into her ear, "I know who you are Serena. I know everything about you.." His left hand moved from his side to rest on her waist, pulling her into him, " I know your laugh..." His breath warm on her, Serena slightly fell forward, catching herself before she could crash into him. Though she found that she couldn't lean away from him, his other arm wrapped tightly around her. "I know your voice, your mannerisms....and even your scent." Serena gasped as she felt the warmth of his tongue gently brush the side of her neck. "I know how exactly to handle you Serena, and I also know what I must do to prove myself to you." He whispered, kissing her neck. Serena cringed as the feeling was too good. He was weaving something over her. Something she couldn't protest against, but she knew that if she didn't things would go to far, and ten she'd never be able to leave.
"I can't allow you to leave Serena." He said, suddenly looking straight at her. Serenas eyes went wide. "I can't allow you to leave this house, or me. I will not allow it." He said sternly, tightening his hold on her, if that was possible. Serena took in a quick breath of discomfort, "Darien.." She said fidgeting. Darien's eyes went confused for a moment, before he realized what he was doing, and let go of her all together. Serena stumbled backwards a bit, rubbing her waist, while Darien ran a shaky hand through his hair. Looking back at her, Darien made a move to step towards her, but she likewise, took a step back. "Serena, please, forgive me. I'm sorry." He said, leaning a hand on the table. Serena raised an eyebrow. Her misty thoughts clearing, and reality now completely surrounding her. "Darien,..I think I should go now." She said, a little afraid about her voice sounding too meek. Darien just stared at her, not moving. Taking a step towards the door, Serena didn't go any further. Could she really just leave? "Serena, it wouldn't be wise for you to leave." He said plainly. Heeding his words, Serena sighed, running a hand through her hair. She was too tired, too hurt, and too worried to leave. After all, who knew what stunts he would pull if she left. "Ok Darien, I'll stay." she said. He raised an eyebrow, "Willingly. I will willingly stay here." She said rolling her eyes. Darien smiled a bit, and walked towards her, but not to seduce her, "Good." Was all he said.
Darien knew her too well to tell her all the plans had already been arranged, and how all of her personal belongings had been moved to the room she was in. "But!." She sad sternly. "I do have school tomorrow. And I absolutely, under no circumstances, will not miss it." She said. Darien smiled, "Alright then. A compromise. You will attend school as usual, but you will return her afterward. And as for driving, I will have one of my drivers escort you." He said. Serenas jaw dropped, "excuse me? Your forbidding e to drive myself?" she asked incredulously. "Would you rather me lock you in a room?" he said with a sly grin. Serna stomped her foot, "I think we both know how that turned out." She said slightly miffed. Darien nodded his head, "Yes, so I take it that you agree with my standards?" he asked. Serena crossed her arms, and huffed angrily. When she became soft, she had no idea. "I'll take that as a yes then." He said, walking past her. "Come, I'll take you to your room." He said, waiting by the door. Serena turned around to glare at him. "Come? Did you just tell me to come?' she asked. Darien grinned, and left the room. Serena grunted, but followed anyway. She had to be up for school at seven, and time was not on her side.
Following Darien up he stairs, and down a hallway or two, she found herself back in the same room. Standing in the middle of it, she looked around, "Ah yes, the infamous room. Big surprise I'd end up here. Is this where I'll be staying then?" she asked. Darien nodded his head, "Indeed. I figured you'd prefer this room above all others. Aside from mine of course." Serena scowled, "Yeah, whatever." She didn't want to take notice of all the little details that had happened the last few days. "In all honesty though, I must say, that this room was in fact designed for you." Serena sighed. It was a lovely room, but, couldn't find any real part of herself in it. It was too formal; and formal was something she wasn't. "Why?" she asked, looking around for a moment. "Because of this." He said, opening the large curtains that covered the floor to ceiling window. Turning to look, Serenas breath caught.
Past the glass, and her slight reflection, lay a beautiful garden. It was lit up by the full moons glow, which was perfectly aligned in the middle of her view. Jaw ajar, she walked to the window, and peered outside. There was a fountain in the middle, pouring water that shimmered in the light, seemingly reflecting each star. "Darien." She whispered, "This is beautiful." Darien stood behind her, watching her every movement, cataloging every sway of her body and tilt of her head, to memory. He knew each gesture, each motion by heart, and staring at her further, he also remembered every curve of her as well. He couldn't forget that. No, as hard as he tried to lock those memories away, he couldn't.
For mortals, time healed all wounds, and people would soon forget their pain and loss. But not him, not his species. Each memory was as fresh as each day, or night in his case. Every memory he had of his wife, and her death, was like yesterday to him. A quick reference to the thought of her lifeless body, made him shudder. "Darien?" He heard his name. Looking up from the ground, he hadn't known he was staring at, he met her eyes, "Are you ok?" she asked meekly. Darien smiled then. His wife wasn't dead anymore. She was right there with him. "You know, we shared a room like this in the old country....You told me that above everything in the world, you'd love to have a garden. One that you could see every morning, and sit in every night. Funny, you didn't want jewelry, or clothing, all you wanted, was the garden." He said in reminiscence. Serna swallowed a lump in her throat, before looking back out the window. It was too odd. She had always wanted a garden when she was little. And secretly still did. One that she could play in, and that smelled of roses. She wanted roses to fill it. Red, white, pink, yellow, roses of every color, shape and size. But it was just a fantasy, wasn't it? A sudden look back to her past, made her remember the reason she had bought her apartment. Not only was it the cheapest and nicest, but it had a view of the small park across the street from her balcony. A park who had a small, but nice garden with a rose bush in it.
"Darien?" she chocked unknowingly on her words, "Yes?" he asked. Serena swallowed hard, "Are, are there roses in there?" she asked, feeling awkward. Darien only chuckled, "Of coarse." He replied. Serena sighed, What was she thinking, what garden didn't have roses? "I believe there are roses of every size, of every shape, and of every color in there." He said. Serena closed her eyes in defiance. "I recall a conversation with you about it. You said, 'I want to have a garden for our children to play in. One with roses for me, and wildflowers for them.' I told you of coarse, and had them planted." He said, stepping to her, his chest touching her back lightly. Serena opened her eyes again, wanting to set aside her minds realistic side for a moment, "Darien? What happened to our child?" she asked. Darien smiled at the term, 'our' in her sentence. Wrapping his arms around her, Serena leaned back, "I hate to tell you this love, but...." He sighed, "But, ...we never saw it. You died with him sill inside you." He said, nuzzling her shoulder.
A shudder ran through Serena, as a tear slipped from her eye, "What..? How?" she asked motionless. Darien snuggled her closer, smoothing her hair down with one of his hands, "Shh, shh now, it's alright." He could feel her pain and tried quickly to soothe it. Serena closed her eyes, and sniffled a bit. "It was the reason I came here Serena." He said in a hushed tone. "I came here to escape my pain. The pain of losing you. You were murdered by the same men, that turned me.." He said hoarsely. Serena turned in their embrace, and hugged him, wrapping her arms around his middle. Rubbing her back, Darien smiled to himself. She was coming around; Slowly, but surely, she was coming around.
Serena rested her head against his shoulder, and let more silent tears fall. She was confused beyond belief, not able to understand why exactly she was crying. She didn't know whether it was for Darien's loss, or because she believed she lost him, as well as a child, in a past life. "Serena, I lost you once an I'm not going to let it happen again. The same men that turned me against my will, are after you for some reason. I couldn't protect you then, but I'm vowing to do so now." He said. Serena sniffled, her tears stopping their flow, and relaxed. "Was it something I saw?" she asked placidly. "Did I see something I wasn't supposed to, and that's why they killed me?" Darien let his gaze travel outside, not wanting to remember the event, but unable to stop it, "You found out that they were involved in the murder of your friend. You found out they were vampires." He whispered unwillingly, shutting his eyes tightly. Serena closed hers as well, "I see." She said, pressing her face a little more into his shoulder. Darien smiled inwardly at her affection, and was beginning to feel his horrible thoughts fade away to nothing. Leaving him to realize he was standing exactly where he always wanted to be. Holding the love of his life in his arms, and forgetting the past. "It seems, to me Serena, that you're taken with Me." He whispered playfully into her ear, after some time had passed. Grunting, Serena just rolled her eyes, but didn't move an inch from his grasp.
After a few more minutes of time had passed, Serena realized if she wanted to be up for school later, she'd have to do more than just hold Darien. Though she didn't see why she had to stop, being that all she had to do was sleep and she could still do it. Hearing Darien chuckle, she realized she had let her thoughts slip out and let go of him. Smiling, Darien kissed her lightly on her lips, before turning to leave the room, vowing to bring food for her nourishment when he returned.
After her meal, and a shower, Serena changed for bed and let Darien tuck her in. Though she had to admit, even though he had insisted on doing so, she didn't mind it in the least. He showed her the kindness and care you would a child, yet the kind of love that made her blush. How she had gotten herself into the mess she was in, she'd never know. But one thing was for sure, she wouldn't be getting out for quite a while.
***** Serena rubbed a hand over her slightly raised stomach and smiled. Looking into the fire, a sad thought lingered in her head. Mary was dead. She was murdered by those men. Those devils. She'd never seen such creatures before in her life, but vowed to do something about it. Telling Darien was the only thing she knew how to do, too afraid to bring it up with anyone else. After all, who but Darien would believe her? She was with child, and many would assume it was her feminine wilds that drove her to such thought. "I suppose my imagination has put a damper on my truthfulness." She said to herself.
Rubbing her hand over her stomach once again, she sighed, hoping that Darien would return home soon, when a loud scream echoed through the halls of her manor. Turning away from the fire, she looked to the closed double doors. She heard nothing else, but felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand up. Patting her done up hair nervously, she turned when hearing a noise behind her. Looking to the other side of the room, she fidgeted with her full dress. Panting in fear. "Who?..." A creak of the door spun her around to look at it. It was slightly opened, making her tremble. Walking to it quickly, she shut it with a click, and stared at it momentarily before turning around.
But in dong so, her breath caught. Two men stood by the fire, where she once was. The same men who she had seen Mary with that night. Feeling her defenses rise, she grabbed a heavy wooden statue, about the size of her arm, that sat on a table next to the door. Looking at one of the men, she glared at him. He had long blond hair, that was tied back from his face, along with flawless skin. Too flawless for a human being. He took a step towards her, "You will keep yourself away from me." She said harshly, a thick English accent puling at her voice. The man chuckled, "And what do you expect to do? Attack me with that object?" he asked. Serena huffed, "To protect the life of myself and my child, I would use my bare hands." She said through clenched teeth. The man smirked, "Yes, and indeed you will have to." He replied. Then before she knew it, he was standing in front of her, holding her roughly by her wrists. She screamed, feeling herself being dragged across the room, to where the other man was standing. "Shh, don't be frightened, this will be quick." The other man with short red hair said. Serena looked straight into his eyes, seething with rage. He had green eyes, and was quite tall. But she could take in no more of his features, for she was suddenly turned roughly to face the door. The blond man holding her painfully from behind. "My husband will be home soon!" she yelled, struggling to be free. The men only laughed, "Yes, we know." The red haired one said.
Waiting a few minutes, the double doors finally flew open to reveal a very angry Darien. He stood there huffing, eye glazed in rage, "Let her go at ONCE!" he yelled at the top of his lungs, striding over to them. But he didn't make it far, "Darien, NO!" Serena screamed. Two men seemingly appeared from nowhere, and captured both his arms, dragging him back to the doorway. "Serenity!" Darien cried. "How touching." The red haired man said. "The loving husband, trying to save the life of his wife. Oh, and yes, also the life of his child" he said smugly. Darien yelled, "Let her go damn you!" It was then that Serena, or Serenity, felt an impending doom. Straining her head to look up at the man holding her, Serena felt tears sting her eyes. Looking back at Darien, she frowned a fearful frown, "Darien." she whispered, feeling a tears escape her.
Darien looked directly at his love, his wife, struggling harder against his captors. "No." he whispered to himself. "NO!" eyes going wide, Darien looked at the man. "Darien, we cannot allow you to go against us, and our family. Please understand." Said the red head. Serena whimpered. "Jacob! NO!" he yelled.
Everything was in slow motion then. Serena felt strong, rough hands grasp her head, "Darien." she whispered, When a sudden turn of her neck, left her lifeless. She felt her body fall to the floor, and the loss of its warmth. She heard raised voices. "Serenity! No, NO! JACOB YOU BASTARD!" Serena knew she was dead, but for some reason, wasn't going anywhere. When she heard then, a scream of defiance escape Darien's, then, everything went black. ***
Serena awoke in a cold sweat, sitting up in bed. Panting and heaving, she looked around her. She was in Darien's home. Touching her neck, she felt her heart slowly stop it's fast beating, and her muscles relax. Letting out a sob, Serena became a little frightened. Covering her mouth with a hand, she moaned, and fell back into bed. It was true. She had dreamed one of the most horrible events ever imaginable. She couldn't remember exactly what she was wearing, or the full décor of the room, or even what she looked like. But what she did remember, was his face. Darien's, and the other mans. Jacobs. She wanted to scream in anger. She was powerless to do anything. Completely inept and helpless. She had died, and nothing could have been done about it. She now understood why every time Darien mentioned the past, a glaze would form over his eyes. He felt responsible for her it. As if it were his fault.
Shaking her head a little Serena sighed, calming herself down slowly. Feeling a warmth spread through her, Serena closed her eyes again. 'Relax. I'm here.' Were the words that entered her mind. It was Darien. He was shunning all of her bad thoughts, and allowing her to feel at peace again. 'How are you doing this?' she asked mentally. A hand brushing the side of her face caused her to jolt suddenly, flicking her eyes open. He was sitting on the bed, right beside her. She gasped quietly as he bent down to her ear. She felt him smiling, "I'm just offering.." He whispered.
******************************************************************* Thanks to all who reviewed my last chapter. Glad you liked it. Um, I'm sick at the moment, so I'll probably be working on my writing a little more. Good news ehh? Anyway, I guess, all I can say is review. The more reviews I get, the more chapters I'm encouraged to write. Well, that's it for me, (the silent one, ^.^) Ciao for Now--Twigs
He walked her through his house, answering some of her questions about certain artifacts he had decorating his home. Finally coming to a long dinning room, he sat Serena down in a chair near the head of the large wooden table. Sitting at the head himself, Darien smiled smugly, while Serena glared a little at him, then brushed it off. 'Whatever.' She thought bemusedly. Folding her hands on the table, Serena let out a sigh and looked at him head on, "So, I believe you have some things to tell me?" "So I believe you have questions." He remarked. Serena groaned, and leaned her head on the high backing of the chair, "OK, so I can ask anything?" she said, looking up at the ceiling. Darien nodded his head, "Yes you may." Serena looked back down at the table, chewing her bottom lip in thought. What could she possibly ask first? There were so many things she didn't know, that she didn't understand, "Darien, maybe it'd be better, if you just told me." "About my life?" He inquired. Serena glanced at him, "yeah, that. Just tell me about you,..... I guess." She said while playing with her fingers.
Darien sat back in his chair, and folded his hands across his abdomen, "You want to start from there then?" he said. Serena nodded, "Sure, I mean, if you feel like it. When did you become a,..a." "Vampire?" "Yes, a vampire." She retorted, angry with herself for not having the guts to say it in the first place. Darien smiled, "I wanna know.." Serena cleared her throat a little, fidgeting. "Like, were you married? Did you, did you have children or anything, a family, parents?" she asked, not taking her eyes off the table. She was completely on edge, and couldn't understand why. Ten minutes ago, she had been ready to kill the man, and take out all of her hurts and frustrations out on him. But now, she didn't even think she could bare the thought of him ever being married. It was as if realization about the man next to her had set in. He wasn't trying to undermine her, or trick her, he was just, helping. Though she had no idea why. She knew he had saved her and Molly from Damien and Samuel that night, and even protected her from him again at her apartment. He'd even picked a fight with a girl, and a vampire woman must have been about ten thousand times worse when it came to their emotions, than mortal women.
Hearing him clear his throat, Serena looked up at him, eyes glazed in thought, "What?" she asked. Darien chuckled, "So, that's what you want to know then..If I was married." he said. Serena smiled unnaturally, "Yeah." She replied. Darien smiled, "Yes, I was, and I had a child." He said. Watching the smirk fade from his face, Serenas eyebrows furrowed. The fact he had said yes had done something to her. She felt hurt, but not over the reason he had been married. "What happened?" she asked quietly. Darien twiddled his thumbs, something Serena found amusing till no end. "Hmm, well.." He began, not showing any emotion on his face. Though his eyes spoke volumes, " It all started about, oh, two hundred years ago, maybe more.." He said nonchalantly. Serena leaned in on the table, "I was Darien Albert Brenham. Duke of.." He looked at Serena, as if in thought, "Well, I was a Duke. Though, I'd rather not say of what." He said. Serena nodded her head, "It was 1773. I was 26 years old then." Serenas eyes went wide in shock, "1773?" she asked. Darien smiled a bit, " Yes, and I was Married to the most beautiful woman ever imaginable." He said, his eyes staring straight into hers. "I don't think there was a woman who didn't envy her. She had the looks of a goddess and the personality of an angel." Serena fidgeted, feeling like she was 13 years old. 'How does he do that?' she groaned inwardly. "She charmed everyone she met, though...she also had a strong spirit that couldn't be broken. Perhaps, maybe.." The timbre in Darien's voice became a little shaky then. Darien swallowed hard, "Perhaps that's what led her to her demise."
Darien stifled a whimper, but was unable to control the single tear that fell form his left eye, and onto his clothing. Serena gasped slightly, moving her hand from the table to his face. Whipping the tear away gently with her thumb she smiled sadly, not understanding her sudden action. Though the look Darien gave her made her trance like state fade. Aware of what she had done, she moved her hand away slowly, but was suddenly unable to bring it back to her person. Darien had caught it, and gently pulled it back to his face, kissing the back of it gently. His eyes not leaving hers. Serena gasped in surprise. "Serena.." He whispered her name huskily to himself , as he turned her hand over to have his head cradled in her palm. Hearing a deep throated growl in his throat, Serena watched him close his eyes as nuzzled her palm lightly.
Feeling herself go lax, Serena raised her other hand to cup the other side of his face. Darien greedily took that one as well, and kissed it, burying his face both her hands. Serena sighed, a relaxing feeling sweeping through her. A warmth that she couldn't explain. As if this were perfectly natural, like she had done such a thing before, with the very same man. Sighing loudly in unrealized content, she watched as Darien suddenly looked up at her, holding her wrists lightly in both of his hands, while a dreamy frame of mind clouded her thoughts.
Getting up from the table, wrists still in his hands, Darien kneeled on one knee by her chair. Eye level with her. "Serena?" he asked. Serena just looked at him, "Yes? She asked. "Do you want to hear more?" he whispered to her. Serena shook her head a little to clear the phantom haze muffling her thoughts. Eyes staring straight back into his, a crease of uncertainty formed on her brow, "Darien? What is all this?" she whispered back. He only smiled, while standing up. Still holding her wrists, Serena could only follow his motions, and stood as well. Only to find herself practically pinned against him. With his quick, flawless movements, he obviously had moved his hands from her wrists, to place them on the small of her back, holding her against him snuggly. "Darien?" she asked, realizing her position, but not really feeling a need to do anything about it. "Yes?" he asked, pressing his forehead against hers, head bowed to look her in the eyes. Serena felt the heat of his skin radiate from him to mingle with her own. The smell of his cologne, the wisdom in his eyes, and build and look of him, it was so familiar. "I thought,..I thought I couldn't be, manipulated." She said shaking a little. Darien grinned, while Serena seemed to feel each muscle that allowed him to do so, move against her in some way. "You can't." he whispered, his lips a mere inch away from her own. Serena stopped breathing, "Then,.." She swallowed nervously, "Then, what do you call this?" she asked. Feeling a slight dejavue hit her, she heard Darien laugh, "I told you Serena, I'm only offering. All you're doing, is giving in,..." Leaning further in, Darien allowed his lips to linger just on top of hers, gently brushing them with his final words, "To what you want"
With that, Darien captured her in a heart stopping kiss. Serena took in a sharp breath, eyes wide in surprise, but slowly closing after the moment of shock had passed. Relaxing, she sank into his embrace, wanting the full experience. He gently kissed, and suckled her lower lip, producing sounds of satisfaction and pleasure from her. Serena, fully enjoying the moment, could do nothing more but move with the rhythm his mouth gave her. From one side to the other, Serena found with each turn and movement of her head with his, she became more entranced by something so indescribable, she wanted to feint. Feeling his lips part against her own, Serena allowed him to fully kiss her. Opening hers shyly at first, she soon became more daring, allowing herself to let go, for once in her life. Basking in the warmth, and feel of the man holding her, she moved her arms from between them, to wrap around his neck. Allowing her fingers to run relentlessly through his raven hair, Serena moaned quietly in delight. 'What have I been missing all my life?' she thought to herself. When suddenly, she was answered, 'Me' said a voice. Though, it wasn't a voice. Opening her eyes, Serena stopped.
She hadn't heard the answer, yet she had. Inside her head, she felt the voice, vibrating inside her. Darien suckled on her lips a few more seconds, before pulling back to look at her face. His arms still woven tightly around her, he refused to let he go, though she was obviously shocked, "I see you've discovered my secret." He said smiling. Serena pushed away from him suddenly, but found herself unable to leave his grasp. He just smiled, "You mean, you've, you've been able to read my mind this whole time?" she asked incredulously. Sudden reality crashing down on her. Darien smirked, "Only when you've wanted me to. Otherwise, I just sense your emotions. I would hardly call that mind reading." He said huskily, kissing her forehead lightly. Serena gaped at him. What was she thinking? Kissing a complete stranger!? Let alone a vampire. But God, he was addictive, like morphine for the soul. She felt happier when she was with him, at ease in a sense. "Darien, this..this...." "Is moving too fast?" He asked sheepishly, nuzzling her neck. Serena grunted, taking her hands and undoing his from her back. Stepping back a few steps, she huffed, it was too much. "Darien, you were married?" she asked, remembering what he had said a few minutes before. Darien smiled sadly, "Yes, I was. But I believe I've found her again Serena." He said, walking closer to her, and gently caressing her forearms. Serena shivered, "What? ..um.What do you mean?" she asked, very much distracted by his touch. Darien leaned in, "I believe, my dear Serena, that you are that one I'm looking for." Serena shook her head a bit, "Huh?" "Well, it seems my theory was correct Serena." he said, wrapping his arms around her again. "It seems that reincarnation, has produced for me, another reason to live." Kissing her cheek, Serena closed her eyes. She had heard what he had said, but didn't feel surprised by it. To her, it even seemed strangely logical. He was obviously a very spiritual, deep person; it was almost predictable he would seek her out for some reason such as a past life theory. But Serena, feeling suddenly three feet tall, bowed her head, and pushed away from him gently, and this time, he let her go.
Taking a step back, she looked back up to him. And this time, she really looked. He was handsome, daring, mysterious, protecting, loving, caring, intelligent, and very, very wealthy. Scanning the room around her Serena let out a breath she didn't realize she had been holding. A woman had tried to kill her earlier, a woman who was obviously jealous of her. She had said that she wasn't half as good as she was, that nothing was as good as the original. Sulking a little, Serena gave a lithe smile, she was so stupid. He thought she was someone she wasn't, that was why he had gone through so much trouble. Never mind the fact she felt something towards him, who wouldn't? After all the things she had listed him to be, vampire or not, he was the perfect man. Something that didn't exist, at least not for her.
Resting her left hand on one of the high backed chairs, Serena leaned her side against it, "Darien, I think,..." she licked her lips nervously, glancing at the floor, then back up at him, "I think that you should reevaluate everything you've just said about me." She said, staring at the floor. "I'm not who you think I am. And I don' want you....I don't want you having any feelings for me, when I'm not what you expect me to be" Letting out an emotional sigh, she stared at her feet, when she saw another pair standing right in front of hers. Looking up quickly, she saw Darien standing disturbingly close to her, not touching her in anyway. "Serena..." he growled lightly, studying her features with slight movements of his head. Sweeping a piece of hair behind her ear, Darien kissed her temple and whispered into her ear, "I know who you are Serena. I know everything about you.." His left hand moved from his side to rest on her waist, pulling her into him, " I know your laugh..." His breath warm on her, Serena slightly fell forward, catching herself before she could crash into him. Though she found that she couldn't lean away from him, his other arm wrapped tightly around her. "I know your voice, your mannerisms....and even your scent." Serena gasped as she felt the warmth of his tongue gently brush the side of her neck. "I know how exactly to handle you Serena, and I also know what I must do to prove myself to you." He whispered, kissing her neck. Serena cringed as the feeling was too good. He was weaving something over her. Something she couldn't protest against, but she knew that if she didn't things would go to far, and ten she'd never be able to leave.
"I can't allow you to leave Serena." He said, suddenly looking straight at her. Serenas eyes went wide. "I can't allow you to leave this house, or me. I will not allow it." He said sternly, tightening his hold on her, if that was possible. Serena took in a quick breath of discomfort, "Darien.." She said fidgeting. Darien's eyes went confused for a moment, before he realized what he was doing, and let go of her all together. Serena stumbled backwards a bit, rubbing her waist, while Darien ran a shaky hand through his hair. Looking back at her, Darien made a move to step towards her, but she likewise, took a step back. "Serena, please, forgive me. I'm sorry." He said, leaning a hand on the table. Serena raised an eyebrow. Her misty thoughts clearing, and reality now completely surrounding her. "Darien,..I think I should go now." She said, a little afraid about her voice sounding too meek. Darien just stared at her, not moving. Taking a step towards the door, Serena didn't go any further. Could she really just leave? "Serena, it wouldn't be wise for you to leave." He said plainly. Heeding his words, Serena sighed, running a hand through her hair. She was too tired, too hurt, and too worried to leave. After all, who knew what stunts he would pull if she left. "Ok Darien, I'll stay." she said. He raised an eyebrow, "Willingly. I will willingly stay here." She said rolling her eyes. Darien smiled a bit, and walked towards her, but not to seduce her, "Good." Was all he said.
Darien knew her too well to tell her all the plans had already been arranged, and how all of her personal belongings had been moved to the room she was in. "But!." She sad sternly. "I do have school tomorrow. And I absolutely, under no circumstances, will not miss it." She said. Darien smiled, "Alright then. A compromise. You will attend school as usual, but you will return her afterward. And as for driving, I will have one of my drivers escort you." He said. Serenas jaw dropped, "excuse me? Your forbidding e to drive myself?" she asked incredulously. "Would you rather me lock you in a room?" he said with a sly grin. Serna stomped her foot, "I think we both know how that turned out." She said slightly miffed. Darien nodded his head, "Yes, so I take it that you agree with my standards?" he asked. Serena crossed her arms, and huffed angrily. When she became soft, she had no idea. "I'll take that as a yes then." He said, walking past her. "Come, I'll take you to your room." He said, waiting by the door. Serena turned around to glare at him. "Come? Did you just tell me to come?' she asked. Darien grinned, and left the room. Serena grunted, but followed anyway. She had to be up for school at seven, and time was not on her side.
Following Darien up he stairs, and down a hallway or two, she found herself back in the same room. Standing in the middle of it, she looked around, "Ah yes, the infamous room. Big surprise I'd end up here. Is this where I'll be staying then?" she asked. Darien nodded his head, "Indeed. I figured you'd prefer this room above all others. Aside from mine of course." Serena scowled, "Yeah, whatever." She didn't want to take notice of all the little details that had happened the last few days. "In all honesty though, I must say, that this room was in fact designed for you." Serena sighed. It was a lovely room, but, couldn't find any real part of herself in it. It was too formal; and formal was something she wasn't. "Why?" she asked, looking around for a moment. "Because of this." He said, opening the large curtains that covered the floor to ceiling window. Turning to look, Serenas breath caught.
Past the glass, and her slight reflection, lay a beautiful garden. It was lit up by the full moons glow, which was perfectly aligned in the middle of her view. Jaw ajar, she walked to the window, and peered outside. There was a fountain in the middle, pouring water that shimmered in the light, seemingly reflecting each star. "Darien." She whispered, "This is beautiful." Darien stood behind her, watching her every movement, cataloging every sway of her body and tilt of her head, to memory. He knew each gesture, each motion by heart, and staring at her further, he also remembered every curve of her as well. He couldn't forget that. No, as hard as he tried to lock those memories away, he couldn't.
For mortals, time healed all wounds, and people would soon forget their pain and loss. But not him, not his species. Each memory was as fresh as each day, or night in his case. Every memory he had of his wife, and her death, was like yesterday to him. A quick reference to the thought of her lifeless body, made him shudder. "Darien?" He heard his name. Looking up from the ground, he hadn't known he was staring at, he met her eyes, "Are you ok?" she asked meekly. Darien smiled then. His wife wasn't dead anymore. She was right there with him. "You know, we shared a room like this in the old country....You told me that above everything in the world, you'd love to have a garden. One that you could see every morning, and sit in every night. Funny, you didn't want jewelry, or clothing, all you wanted, was the garden." He said in reminiscence. Serna swallowed a lump in her throat, before looking back out the window. It was too odd. She had always wanted a garden when she was little. And secretly still did. One that she could play in, and that smelled of roses. She wanted roses to fill it. Red, white, pink, yellow, roses of every color, shape and size. But it was just a fantasy, wasn't it? A sudden look back to her past, made her remember the reason she had bought her apartment. Not only was it the cheapest and nicest, but it had a view of the small park across the street from her balcony. A park who had a small, but nice garden with a rose bush in it.
"Darien?" she chocked unknowingly on her words, "Yes?" he asked. Serena swallowed hard, "Are, are there roses in there?" she asked, feeling awkward. Darien only chuckled, "Of coarse." He replied. Serena sighed, What was she thinking, what garden didn't have roses? "I believe there are roses of every size, of every shape, and of every color in there." He said. Serena closed her eyes in defiance. "I recall a conversation with you about it. You said, 'I want to have a garden for our children to play in. One with roses for me, and wildflowers for them.' I told you of coarse, and had them planted." He said, stepping to her, his chest touching her back lightly. Serena opened her eyes again, wanting to set aside her minds realistic side for a moment, "Darien? What happened to our child?" she asked. Darien smiled at the term, 'our' in her sentence. Wrapping his arms around her, Serena leaned back, "I hate to tell you this love, but...." He sighed, "But, ...we never saw it. You died with him sill inside you." He said, nuzzling her shoulder.
A shudder ran through Serena, as a tear slipped from her eye, "What..? How?" she asked motionless. Darien snuggled her closer, smoothing her hair down with one of his hands, "Shh, shh now, it's alright." He could feel her pain and tried quickly to soothe it. Serena closed her eyes, and sniffled a bit. "It was the reason I came here Serena." He said in a hushed tone. "I came here to escape my pain. The pain of losing you. You were murdered by the same men, that turned me.." He said hoarsely. Serena turned in their embrace, and hugged him, wrapping her arms around his middle. Rubbing her back, Darien smiled to himself. She was coming around; Slowly, but surely, she was coming around.
Serena rested her head against his shoulder, and let more silent tears fall. She was confused beyond belief, not able to understand why exactly she was crying. She didn't know whether it was for Darien's loss, or because she believed she lost him, as well as a child, in a past life. "Serena, I lost you once an I'm not going to let it happen again. The same men that turned me against my will, are after you for some reason. I couldn't protect you then, but I'm vowing to do so now." He said. Serena sniffled, her tears stopping their flow, and relaxed. "Was it something I saw?" she asked placidly. "Did I see something I wasn't supposed to, and that's why they killed me?" Darien let his gaze travel outside, not wanting to remember the event, but unable to stop it, "You found out that they were involved in the murder of your friend. You found out they were vampires." He whispered unwillingly, shutting his eyes tightly. Serena closed hers as well, "I see." She said, pressing her face a little more into his shoulder. Darien smiled inwardly at her affection, and was beginning to feel his horrible thoughts fade away to nothing. Leaving him to realize he was standing exactly where he always wanted to be. Holding the love of his life in his arms, and forgetting the past. "It seems, to me Serena, that you're taken with Me." He whispered playfully into her ear, after some time had passed. Grunting, Serena just rolled her eyes, but didn't move an inch from his grasp.
After a few more minutes of time had passed, Serena realized if she wanted to be up for school later, she'd have to do more than just hold Darien. Though she didn't see why she had to stop, being that all she had to do was sleep and she could still do it. Hearing Darien chuckle, she realized she had let her thoughts slip out and let go of him. Smiling, Darien kissed her lightly on her lips, before turning to leave the room, vowing to bring food for her nourishment when he returned.
After her meal, and a shower, Serena changed for bed and let Darien tuck her in. Though she had to admit, even though he had insisted on doing so, she didn't mind it in the least. He showed her the kindness and care you would a child, yet the kind of love that made her blush. How she had gotten herself into the mess she was in, she'd never know. But one thing was for sure, she wouldn't be getting out for quite a while.
***** Serena rubbed a hand over her slightly raised stomach and smiled. Looking into the fire, a sad thought lingered in her head. Mary was dead. She was murdered by those men. Those devils. She'd never seen such creatures before in her life, but vowed to do something about it. Telling Darien was the only thing she knew how to do, too afraid to bring it up with anyone else. After all, who but Darien would believe her? She was with child, and many would assume it was her feminine wilds that drove her to such thought. "I suppose my imagination has put a damper on my truthfulness." She said to herself.
Rubbing her hand over her stomach once again, she sighed, hoping that Darien would return home soon, when a loud scream echoed through the halls of her manor. Turning away from the fire, she looked to the closed double doors. She heard nothing else, but felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand up. Patting her done up hair nervously, she turned when hearing a noise behind her. Looking to the other side of the room, she fidgeted with her full dress. Panting in fear. "Who?..." A creak of the door spun her around to look at it. It was slightly opened, making her tremble. Walking to it quickly, she shut it with a click, and stared at it momentarily before turning around.
But in dong so, her breath caught. Two men stood by the fire, where she once was. The same men who she had seen Mary with that night. Feeling her defenses rise, she grabbed a heavy wooden statue, about the size of her arm, that sat on a table next to the door. Looking at one of the men, she glared at him. He had long blond hair, that was tied back from his face, along with flawless skin. Too flawless for a human being. He took a step towards her, "You will keep yourself away from me." She said harshly, a thick English accent puling at her voice. The man chuckled, "And what do you expect to do? Attack me with that object?" he asked. Serena huffed, "To protect the life of myself and my child, I would use my bare hands." She said through clenched teeth. The man smirked, "Yes, and indeed you will have to." He replied. Then before she knew it, he was standing in front of her, holding her roughly by her wrists. She screamed, feeling herself being dragged across the room, to where the other man was standing. "Shh, don't be frightened, this will be quick." The other man with short red hair said. Serena looked straight into his eyes, seething with rage. He had green eyes, and was quite tall. But she could take in no more of his features, for she was suddenly turned roughly to face the door. The blond man holding her painfully from behind. "My husband will be home soon!" she yelled, struggling to be free. The men only laughed, "Yes, we know." The red haired one said.
Waiting a few minutes, the double doors finally flew open to reveal a very angry Darien. He stood there huffing, eye glazed in rage, "Let her go at ONCE!" he yelled at the top of his lungs, striding over to them. But he didn't make it far, "Darien, NO!" Serena screamed. Two men seemingly appeared from nowhere, and captured both his arms, dragging him back to the doorway. "Serenity!" Darien cried. "How touching." The red haired man said. "The loving husband, trying to save the life of his wife. Oh, and yes, also the life of his child" he said smugly. Darien yelled, "Let her go damn you!" It was then that Serena, or Serenity, felt an impending doom. Straining her head to look up at the man holding her, Serena felt tears sting her eyes. Looking back at Darien, she frowned a fearful frown, "Darien." she whispered, feeling a tears escape her.
Darien looked directly at his love, his wife, struggling harder against his captors. "No." he whispered to himself. "NO!" eyes going wide, Darien looked at the man. "Darien, we cannot allow you to go against us, and our family. Please understand." Said the red head. Serena whimpered. "Jacob! NO!" he yelled.
Everything was in slow motion then. Serena felt strong, rough hands grasp her head, "Darien." she whispered, When a sudden turn of her neck, left her lifeless. She felt her body fall to the floor, and the loss of its warmth. She heard raised voices. "Serenity! No, NO! JACOB YOU BASTARD!" Serena knew she was dead, but for some reason, wasn't going anywhere. When she heard then, a scream of defiance escape Darien's, then, everything went black. ***
Serena awoke in a cold sweat, sitting up in bed. Panting and heaving, she looked around her. She was in Darien's home. Touching her neck, she felt her heart slowly stop it's fast beating, and her muscles relax. Letting out a sob, Serena became a little frightened. Covering her mouth with a hand, she moaned, and fell back into bed. It was true. She had dreamed one of the most horrible events ever imaginable. She couldn't remember exactly what she was wearing, or the full décor of the room, or even what she looked like. But what she did remember, was his face. Darien's, and the other mans. Jacobs. She wanted to scream in anger. She was powerless to do anything. Completely inept and helpless. She had died, and nothing could have been done about it. She now understood why every time Darien mentioned the past, a glaze would form over his eyes. He felt responsible for her it. As if it were his fault.
Shaking her head a little Serena sighed, calming herself down slowly. Feeling a warmth spread through her, Serena closed her eyes again. 'Relax. I'm here.' Were the words that entered her mind. It was Darien. He was shunning all of her bad thoughts, and allowing her to feel at peace again. 'How are you doing this?' she asked mentally. A hand brushing the side of her face caused her to jolt suddenly, flicking her eyes open. He was sitting on the bed, right beside her. She gasped quietly as he bent down to her ear. She felt him smiling, "I'm just offering.." He whispered.
******************************************************************* Thanks to all who reviewed my last chapter. Glad you liked it. Um, I'm sick at the moment, so I'll probably be working on my writing a little more. Good news ehh? Anyway, I guess, all I can say is review. The more reviews I get, the more chapters I'm encouraged to write. Well, that's it for me, (the silent one, ^.^) Ciao for Now--Twigs