Taking his hand off the mans shoulder, Darien merely fixed his sleeves and
placed his hands behind his back. "I should have known." He said sternly.
The red haired man laughed, showing slightly pointed k-9 fangs lingering at
the corners of his mouth.
"Indeed you should have." The red haired man replied, placing his hands behind his back in the same fashion ad Darien while grinning a little grin. Though totally lacking in the radiating, self poised charm that seemed to flow from Darien like a waterfall.
"Um, excuse me." Serena said over the music. The men had spoken to each other in a normal tone of voice, so she couldn't hear exactly what had been said. But she knew that they had understood one another clearly enough. 'Damn vampires' Serena thought, looking around the dance floor at the dancing people.
Looking past the red haired man, she saw Darien raise an eyebrow at her. Serena simply stuck out her tongue, 'Ya herd me!' she yelled mentally.
Smiling, Darien nodded his head at the other man. A surprising act indeed, being that Serena had thought for sure he was about to kill him. "Luther, I do believe you have very good taste in women, but I must say that this one belongs to me. And I cannot allow you to lay a finger on her." He said, reaching behind Luther and grabbing Serena gently by her wrist.
Serena, being unable to resist the pull, found herself pined against Darien's side with a strong arm wrapped around her waist. Sighing, Serena rolled her eyes around the room, trying to give off a sense of annoyance. Though, she felt herself starting to like the embraces she constantly found herself in with Darien.
"I see. Well, I am sorry Darien. You should have proclaimed her then. I would have known if you would have. Though I somewhat have the feeling she will not concede for you to do so." Luther said, eyeing Serena wearily.
Though Serena strained to hear the words he was speaking, she picked up most of it and groaned. 'Oh, Now what?' she thought. Darien chuckled then, but the only way she noticed was by the deep rumbling she felt vibrate through his being. That, and a sudden look straight into her eyes. Gulping, Serena smiled, trying to break up the tension she was suddenly feeling. "I think I will do so tonight Luther. It does sound like a good idea. We are out now, and her friend is with us. Someone she cares for. So I, in turn, will care for her as well." He said, without looking away from Serena.
Now that, Serena had fully heard. He was trying to make up for the incident which had happened the night before. Consisting of an unconscious Molly and crushed cell phone that she pretended to look for with her friend. "Well then, I should be off then. You will keep her safe Darien, I'm sure. Perhaps if you do decide to take her there tonight, you will see me there. Until then Darien." Luther said. And with that, he disappeared into the crowd, walking away so swiftly, you'd think there was no crowd at all.
Looking up at Darien, Serena sighed, and tried to push away from him, only to find herself unable to do so. Surprise, surprise. "Darien, come on, let's get off the dance floor." She said, turning only slightly in his embrace. "Serena, I think we should be leaving now." He said casually.
"Darien..why now? It's not like I haven't been hit on by men before. And as hard as it is for me to say this, It's not like I haven't been hit on by vampires either." She said sternly. Darien only laughed. "Really now? You're so accustomed to it then are you?" he said. Serena groaned, and finally was able to detangle herself from him. "Come on, you left Andrew there alone and I'm afraid some drunken women's gonna take advantage of his fragile state." She said while leading Darien across the split level dance floor, and up the stairs.
Standing by the railing that lined the dance floor, Serena scanned the room for her friend. "Molly is at the bar Serena." Darien said, interrupting her thoughts. "I sent her there when I assured her you were ok." He said smiling.
Sighing, Serena stopped looking, and simply gazed around. "Are you ready to leave then?" he asked. Serena shook her head, "Darien, we just got here. And I only got to dance once. And once is never enough for me. Especially when I'm under stress." She said, taping her fingers on the chrome railing. "Hmm, and why would you be under stress?" he asked. Serena rolled her eyes, "Oh please. As if you had no clue at all." She said. Darien only grinned. "Well, besides the mentioned fact that you only had one dance, I must bring up another good reason to leave now." He said.
Looking up at him, Serena folded her arms across her chest, "And what would that be?" she asked. Darien leaned down a bit, to be closer to her, "I don't like the idea of men groping you out there." He said through clenched teeth.
Serenas eyes went wide. He was jealous! Ha! She had managed to make a vampire jealous of a mortal man. "Don't be so sure Serena." He said. Smiling, Serena realized he had read her thoughts. "Don't be so sure ehh? Well, you said it buddy, not me." She said laughing a bit.
Glancing around the room once more, Serena tried to find Molly, but couldn't see her. "Wonder where she is." She asked herself. Looking back at Darien, she realized he was staring at her intently. Giving her a look that made her want to melt, but at the same time made her uncomfortable. She hated that, because every time he did, it made her feel as if she were naked. "What?" she asked him, wanting to know exactly what he was thinking. He only smiled in reply.
"Darien, look." she began, taking a small step back from him. "If you are so paranoid about me being out there on the dance floor, why don't you just come with me?" she asked while feeling a smile creep on to her face. Laughing mentally, she wondered why she had even asked him. He seemed so refined, why would he even consider learning how to dance the way the younger generation did? Besides, could she even really handle both of them in being so close and....well, ya know.
"Considering the stability of the relationship we now have, I think it's probably too delicate to allow certain movements in such a close proximity." Darien said grinning. Blinking in surprise, Serenas train of thought was suddenly altered. 'So he had been thinking that the whole time.' she thought. Sighing, she turned and leaned her stomach against the rail. "Yeah, yeah,.." She mumbled.
Watching her through half hooded eyes, Darien turned to stand directly by her side, and placed hand on the small of her back. Feeling a chill go up her spine, Serena tried to rationalize with her sudden surge of emotions. The emotions that she constantly kept in check. She didn't want to deal with them, didn't want to dwell on them. She had barely known Darien a week, and he was already conjuring up visions in her head, and feelings in her heart. Something she never allowed anyone to do.
"Darien, stop alright?" she said in annoyance. "Something wrong?" he questioned, without removing his hand. Huffing, Serena leaned her head back a little. It wasn't that she was angry with him, how could she be? It was herself she was angry with. She had no way of controlling any of the situations she was in, whenever she was with him. And that made her feel lost. She rarely ever put so much faith into a person before, and what Darien was doing was making up her mind about him, for her. 'Don't I already have my mind made up though?' she thought to herself.
Shaking her head, Serena didn't even want to go there. Her feelings would be placed on a shelf to be dealt with later. "Serena?" She heard him ask again. Gritting her teeth, she sighed, "Yeah?" she asked looking over at him. "What's wrong?"
Running a hand through her hair, she looked out into the crowd of dancing people in front of her and slouched, "Darien, aren't you supposed to be able to read thoughts? Cause I already know you know what I'm thinking, and I also know that you know that I know you are the most incredible guy I've ever met and I can't compare you to anything so it makes me uncomfortable cause I don't know what I'm talking about, but you know me better than I do and you are driving me absolutely insane!" she said closing her eyes and putting her hands to her head.
Taking a deep breath, Serena wondered where her sudden ranting had come from. Dropping her hands to her side, she looked back at him.
His expression hadn't changed at all. He still wore his smirk, and she still felt his hand on the small of her back. So had any of her words even been heard? "Serena." He began. "I can read your mind with clarity, as well as your emotions. But I prefer you to speak them, because when you do, it shows that you're not willingly trying to hide anything from Me." He said.
Serena rolled her eyes. "Darien, come on. What does it matter? You're going to anyway. So lets just cut through the B.S. alright?" she said sternly, beginning to feel anger rising in her.
Darien frowned at her words, becoming suddenly very competitive. She was throwing road blocks in his way to stop him from getting to her. He knew she was a very self guarded person, and was rarely caught with her guard down; but all along he knew everything had to come to a boiling point, so now was just as good a time as any.
With quick motions, Darien moved his hand from the small of her back, to her waist and pulled her close to him. Turning her in his embrace, they faced each other, with both his arms wrapped securely around her. "Darien, what are you doing?" she asked, bringing her arms between both their bodies. Darien only tightened his hold on her and brought his face closer to hers, making Serena gasp.
"So you want to cut through all the B.S. do you?" he asked just as sternly as she had. Serenas brows furrowed. Her eyes showing a bit of fear in them. "Well then lets. Lets start with that fact that you're been hiding things from me from the very beginning, showing me nothing but common curiosity when you know damn well you know more about me then you presume to. You place yourself behind a wall, deny your feelings, and leave me out in the cold. How's that for driving someone insane?" He asked.
Serena gulped, but somewhere along the way was able to find her voice, "Ha, hiding things from you? Please, I've never been capable of hiding anything from you! You raid my mind like you own it, and frankly scare the begesus out of me! You're always around me, constantly putting me through endless amounts of worry because I'm afraid you'll be insulted by a thought! Well I'm sorry if I can't be as up front about my feelings that you say I deny. I can't help it. I've known you hardly a week and you're asking for unthought of devotion when you know damn well I can't give it after such a short time!" she screamed the last bit feeling tears rim her eyes.
"You say you know me! So I would think you'd be at least more understanding. But no, you become angry when I can't put out all the emotion that you do!" she yelled again.
"No Serena, you're wrong about that!" Darien said. "I don't become angry that you're not as forthcoming about you feelings as I am. It is my nature, and I am sorry if I have made you feel as such. But what I become frustrated about is that you deny all of Me!" he said angrily. "You deny my love, you deny yours, our past, our present, and you refuse to accept what I am. That is what has you scared. You know I would slit my own throat before I would let you come into any danger. I would even walk into the sun if it would spare you hurt; But I will not do that Serena, just because you ask to have your old life back. You cannot. You are what you are, and I am what I am. Nothing will change it, so stop trying to. I will never let you go Serena. I will not lose you again. I have once, and I'll be damned if I allow it again. I'll see you come to me yet, and I can assure that you will not be disappointed when you do." His words were heated, and his tone was strong. He was more upset then she imagined.
Serena didn't know what to say. What could she say? How was she supposed to react to that? Everything he mentioned was true, and it made her feel ignorant. He had known her tribulations, and was all the while, trying to help her through them. She was an idiot. Looking down, Serena felt real tears surface, and let out a sob. "Serena." He said softly.
Surprised she could hear him, Serena looked back up again. "Serena, please.." He said, whipping a tear away with his thumb. "Don' cry over this Serena. Just understand that I need you, more then you'll ever know. I love you."
At first, the background noise could be heard. The beat of the music, and peoples voices. But after those last three words were spoken, Serena heard nothing. Only the sound of her own pulse in her ears, and the feeling of Darien's embrace.
From Darien's lips, Serena had heard the three words that were, probably, the most feared words men ever had to contend with. "What?" she asked breathlessly. Darien only smiled in reply at he bent his head closer to hers. "I said I loved you Serena." He said
Blinking in surprise, Serena felt her legs go numb. Her mind reeled. 'Come on Serena. Answer him! You know he's waiting for an answer. Say it back!' she thought. But her mouth produced no words, except noises. Feeling the rumbling chuckle in Darien's chest, the last thing Serena saw were his eyes as his lips descended on her own.
Feeling a rush go through her body, Serena's mind flashed with visions. So many in fact, it was hard for her to make out reality from fantasy, because some of the visions were just too much to be believed.
Rose gardens with cool blades of grass on summer days, and heavy breaths and a warm bed on cold nights. Dances in wide dresses, and classical music. Dreamy situations, and kisses behind closed doors. Touches, scents, his scent. So much, almost too much to bare.
Eyes opening, Serena slowly felt the world return to the way it was. She heard the music of her era surround her, and the actual temperature of the place. It was hot. Uncomfortably hot. Looking into Darien's eyes, she unknowingly held her breath. During their little time laps, Serena realized she had unconsciously wrapped her arms around his neck. An action she was more than accustomed to. "Darien..." she began to speak. Darien only placed a finger over her lips and smiled cunningly. He had won, and he knew it.
"Serena!" A voice called out over the music. Serena grinned back at Darien, unable to control her sudden feeling of happiness. The world was no longer pressing down on her shoulders, and she now felt as light as a feather. "Serena!" the voice called again, this time sounding closer.
Snapping out of her daydream, Serena shook her head slightly, and looked behind Darien. It was Molly, standing only eight feet away from them, but unable to get through the crowd of people. Laughing, Serena released her hold from around Darien's neck, and looked back up at him. "Molly needs some help." She said, her voice mellow and subdued.
Giving a quick look back over his left shoulder, Darien nodded in reply. "So she does." Seeing people suddenly part a way for Molly, Serena rolled her eyes. "I meant I needed to be let go so I could help her. Not put it in all those peoples heads that they needed to take a step to the right or left." She said. Darien only smirked, "Well you never know Serena. It could all just be coincidence." He said. Sighing, Serena laughed a bit before turning her attention to her friend. "Hey Mol, where you been?" Serena asked.
Molly just smiled. "Oh, I was just talking to this really great guy named Luther, that's all." She said, smiling stupidly. Serenas jaw dropped. "Who did yo..?" "I do believe we must be going now ladies." Darien cut in, letting one arm leave Serenas waist, though he left one still wrapped around her.
Molly raised her eyebrows, "Huh? Why? Why are we leaving? Didn't you just hear me say a guys name?" she asked. Serena laughed, "Yeah, I did, and ya know what? I don't think I like the name much." Grabbing Molly's wrist, she led her back to the table where Andrew was supposed to be. Feeling Darien's arm slip off her waist while walking away, Serena looked back remorsefully at him. He only winked at her, and motioned with his head to the bar. 'Luther' her told her mentally. Serena nodded an ok, but still felt at a loss. Shouldn't they have done more than just kiss? She wondered this for a moment, staring at Darien as if he were transparent, before coming back to reality to see him grinning.
Blushing, Serena turned dramatically and walked back to the table. Luckily, Andrew was still there, and he didn't look half as mournful as he had. "Hey Drew, how's your night been?" Serena asked, sitting beside him. Andrew just smiled, "Well, I talked to Darien, and ya know what? I think he should be a shrink. Seriously, he told me some things about myself and my situation, that no one else has pointed out to Me." He said.
Serena smiled and sighed, "Really? And what would that be?" Serena asked, crossing her arms on the table and giving a sly look at Molly. "Oh, that she's a big whore and that I shouldn't be whining about it." He said laughing. Serenas jaw dropped, "Excuse me? Did you just call the 'love of your life' a whore?" She asked.
Andrew just smiled and leaned back in his seat, putting his hands behind his head. "Love of my life? Please, I could have any woman in this bar." He said, sticking up his chin and grinning like a fool. Serena just rolled her eyes, "I swear, are men born with this ego or was it placed in them the moment they saw a girl looking at them?" she asked Molly.
Molly just shrugged her shoulders, "It's hard to tell. And I bet he's so happy with himself now, that he's not even going to think to remember that we had been calling her a whore from day one!" Molly had yelled the last part before she leaned over the table and gave him a light punch in the shoulder. "Hey, hey now, are we going off the deepened now or what?" He asked laughing and rubbing the spot Molly had hit.
Molly just smirked and sat back down. "Look, as long as you're happy." Serena said, looking around. She wondered where Darien had gone off to, when she looked out onto the dance floor. She didn't know exactly why her attention had been drawn there, but for some reason, she felt the need to scan the whole place.
That's when she saw a familiar face. A strangely familiar face. A smooth complexion with blond hair tied back at the nape of his neck. A man that seemed to spark something in her. A feeling to flee, or, fight? She didn't understand.
"Serena" Looking up sharply, She saw Darien standing right beside her. "What's wrong?" he asked her. Looking back out into the dancing crowd, she saw he was gone. But he had been looking right at her. "Umm..." Serena couldn't think of what to say. "Serena." He asked again. Looking back up, she only mumbled. "There was a..a .." She looked again, he was still nowhere to be seen.
Turning around in her seat, Molly began to look into the crowd with her, "Rena, what are you looking at?" she asked. Shaking her head a little, Serena just sighed, "Nothing, never mind. I just thought I saw someone from school is all." She said, covering up her sudden discomfort. Molly turned back around and huffed, "Well, I guess he's gone now then." She said. "So what were you talking about earlier? About leaving?" she asked. Serena blinked a coupe of times to wash the feeling of hazard from her mind.
She didn't know why, but something screamed danger in her soul. "Serena, we should be going now, don't you think?" Darien asked her, leaning a hand on the table. Serena Looked at Molly, "Oh yeah, we were gonna...leave?" she asked, looking back up at Darien.
He was smiling down at her, a small smile that made her melt. God, why was she so susceptible to all his minor actions and movements? "Yes leave, I know of a place that I think you will enjoy." He said winking at her. "Really? What's it called?" Molly asked, leaning her elbows on the table.
Darien turned his head towards her, "Oh, it's a lounge actually. Not a club. Very decent, sophisticated. I'm sure a lovely woman such as yourself will have no problem fitting in." he said with a smile. Molly smiled back and blushed, resting her head in her hands, and looking at Serena. "Really now? Well, if I can fit in so well, I think we should go then." She said.
Serena felt a twinge of knowledge about what particular place Darien was talking about. "UH, Darien?.Sweetie? Um, would this be a vampire bar, perchance?" she asked, smiling a fake, sweet smile up at him. Darien looked back down at her, brushing a piece of her golden hair behind her ear with his right hand. "Something along those lines." He stated simply. Serena glared at him with a smile. 'You're honestly not thinking of taking me, or taking *us* back there are you?' she asked mentally. Darien just grinned, and leaned down to plant a kiss on the top of her head. 'sorry love, but something has to be done for your own protection.' He replied.
"Ok, so let's go!" Molly said excitedly while standing up. "You coming Andrew?" she asked. Andrew Gave a look towards Darien, then at Serena, "Hmm, I think I'll pass." He said. "Oh come on, were out here tonight for you!" Molly said in a pleading voice. But Andrew just shook his head. "No, no, you girls go. I think I'm gonna get packed and get an early flight back to Houston. There's really no use of me staying here any longer anyway. And I need to say bye to my parents." He said.
Standing up, Serena sighed, "Are you really gonna try and leave tonight?" she asked sadly. It was rare her friend ever came home, and she didn't want him to leave so soon. But the sudden arms that wrapped around her waist quickly reminded her of her little situation. Then the feel of Darien nuzzling her shoulder made her forget about Andrew all together. "Yeah, I should get back to Houston. God only knows how much I've missed. And it's never good for a medical student to miss any classes." He said laughing and getting up from the table.
"Well, I'll miss you Drew. You have a safe trip ok?" Serena said smiling. She was going to give her friend a hug, but the arms around her held her in place. Andrew just smiled at her. "I will. Bye Mol." he said, giving her a hug. "And Darien, thanks a lot, you take care of her now." He said, gesturing to Serena. Darien nodded his head. "I surely will. Good luck to you Andrew." Nodding, Andrew smiled and then walked off to leave. "There goes the future savior of the world." Serena said sighing. "Yeah, and there goes my date for the night." Molly replied, "Now I'm stuck with you two love birds. Hurray for the third wheel." She said dejectedly.
Serena laughed as she felt Darien's nose tickle her neck, "Oh come on Mol, you're never a third wheel." She said laughing again and swatting at him to stop. Molly just rolled her eyes, " Yeah whatever, so where are we going now?" she asked. Ceasing is nuzzling, Darien picked up his head, "It's called the Vamp Lounge, and I think you should enjoy it."
Huffing Serena gave Darien a worried look that pierced his heart. "Don't worry Serena, I'm here." He whispered to her reassuringly. Looking into her eyes, Serena felt a feeling of comfort wash over her. "Hello?" Molly asked, waving a hand at the two who were looking at each other so intimately. Looking up at Molly, Darien smiled, "The third wheel would like to go then." She said teasingly. Serena laughed. "Ok, ok, we're gone." She said.
Leaving the club, Molly spotted Andrew standing next to a streetlight taking on his cell phone. "I'll be right back. I forgot, we're the one's who drove him here!" Molly said laughing. Serena laughed too. "OK, you go talk to him." She said.
Watching Molly walk away, she felt someone's hand take her own. Looking behind her, she saw Darien standing there with a smug smile on his face. She giggled a little, "Yes?" she asked with a smile. Kissing the back of her hand, Darien grinned devilishly at her, "Are we feeling better about our little 'situation'?" he asked. Serena huffed, but her smiled didn't fade. "Maybe." She said.
Placing his other hand on her hip, he pulled Serena closer to him, and continued to kiss the back of her hand with tantalizing slowness. "Hmm, I think that.. Maybe. we should skip the whole night out in general, and return home." He said. Serena blushed. "And then ...maybe..." he said, stopping his kisses to look at her, "We should go to bed."
His voice was husky and smooth, and his eyes midnight blue. Showing all the torment and frustration of centuries, as well as lust and loneliness. Something she had failed to see before. Or, it was possible that she had, but refused to acknowledge it. "Darien..." she whispered.
"Ok, he got a cab." Molly said walking over to the two of them. Taking a deep, shaky breath, Serena smiled, "Oh good." She said smiling. Eyeing Darien and Serena, Molly smiled wickedly, "Ya know, I was thinking that maybe I should be going to, I think I have some things to do at home." She said.
Darien had barely acknowledged Molly's words, but Serena knew what she had said, all too well. "Molly, come on, it'll be fun." She said, walking from Darien to place an arm around her friends shoulder. Serena had been shaking in his embrace and was afraid if she had stayed too long, then he would sweep her off her feet and carry her back home. Literally.
Raising an eyebrow, Molly smirked and let her gaze wander from her friend to Darien. Serena seemed on edge, while Darien seemed the epitome of calm. But she knew very well that he was on edge just as much as Serena was. And if she didn't know better, Darien was about to jump her bones in the middle of the street.
Laughing suddenly, Molly placed her arm around Serenas shoulder as well, "Well, ok then, lead the way." Smiling with relief, Serena looked removed her arm from Molly's shoulder, and locked arms with her. "Lets go then." Looking up at Darien, she waited a moment in uncomfortable silence before me grinned slightly and turned on his heel.
Mentally sighing, Serena walked a few paces behind Darien, still joined to Molly. She couldn't explain it, but for some reason, she felt as if she had better not tamper with the delicacy of their relationship. She and Darien had suddenly become very close, and within an hour, had practically fallen against one another in passion. And as tempting as it sounded to Serena, she had to keep sane. She had to keep her sanity, and her head on her shoulders. But then again, nothing about her predicament was sane. Darien was a real vampire, and she was involved in some kind of obscene circumstance, having to do with past lives and someone wanting vengeance on her.
The it hit her. She had forgotten all about it. For some stupid reason, weather it be Darien, or the stress she was under, she had forgotten that she was the target of attack. Darien himself had even said it. Someone who hated him, was after her for some reason, and no one knew why. Becoming very cautious all of the sudden, Serena began look around, and caught up with Darien's minimal pace in front of them.
Walking by his side, she looked up at him, trying to portray what she was feeling, but not knowing if she was getting through to him. After what she had said at the club, she wondered if he would ever dare to read her thoughts again.
Looking down at her, he took her by the hand, and smiled at her first, then at Molly. 'Don't worry love. I'm here, and I can sense danger a mile away. Do not think I am unaware.' Gulping, Serena nodded at him, then at Molly who looked confused, "Am I missing something?" she asked. Serena just laughed. 'You have no idea Molly' she thought.
Stopping suddenly, Serena spotted the door. That same door she and Molly had entered not but a few days earlier. She undoubtedly knew she would be remembered, and that Molly would to. And since Molly didn't remember, wasn't it a bad call to go there? 'They will be fully aware when I enter Serena.' She heard mentally. Looking down at her, he winked, and squeezed her hand reassuringly. Sighing, she plastered on a smile and nudged her friend, "Ok, we're here." She said. "Let's knock em' dead." Molly said smiling.
The entrance was just how Serena remembered it. Dark and spooky. Though at the time she had enjoyed it, now, she would have preferred going home and reading a book. Or, if it meant going home with Darien, well... perhaps reading wasn't exactly at the top of her 'to do' list. 'Oh good GOD! I did not just think that!' Serena screamed at herself. What was she becoming? Where was the rational, self controlled part of her? Never in her life had she ever thought so frivolously about something that was such a big deal to her. "I think I need a drink." She stated to herself. Molly then laughed beside her, "yeah me too." She said.
Groaning, Serena followed Darien down the hall and into the main room, where once again she was greeted by many eyes staring at her. Though what she noticed most, was that how everyone seemed to be in awe. Looking at Darien, He only nodded, and everyone went back to what they were doing.
"Oh my God. Serena, this is the place!" she said looking around. Serena sighed, "Yeah, sure is." She said. Molly just laughed, "I can't believe the hotties that are here!" she squeaked quietly to her friend as she followed both Her and Darien past an array of gorgeous men. Serena just sighed. "Yeah, I know. We've been through this." Serena said, a bit frightened that she was going to see one of those familiar faces again. "Huh?" Molly asked surprisingly. Serena just shook her head. "Never mind." She said back. Squeezing Darien's hand to get his attention, he looked back to see her worried face. "Well, this is It." He said stopping and turning around. "I have a private room here, so we need not have to worry about finding a quite spot in the room."
Placing an arm around Serenas waist, he led her and Molly to the back of the lounge then to a small hallway with a door on each side. Going in through the right one, Darien grinned as he saw his closest friends in sitting about the room.
Allowing Serena and Molly to walk past him, he shut the door behind them. Looking around the room, Serena smiled. She knew Zoicite and recognized the other three men. Though she couldn't remember their names. "Ahh Serena." Zoicite said while standing up from his plush chair.
Walking to her, he smiled and took her hand, kissing the back of it. "So glad to see Darien has let you out of the house." He said giving a swift look at Darien. Darien didn't seem to be bothered by it though.
"Yes, I know. He's been keeping me locked up for a while." She said laughing. Turning his attention from Serena, Zoicite saw Molly standing there, grinning impishly. "And Molly, so good to see you again." He said kissing her hand in the same fashion as he had Serena's. Molly just giggled and let out a small sound of awe as he did so. "Oh, well, .....yes, hello." She said, stumbling over her words. "Well, shall we sit then?" Darien finally spoke up. Looking back at him, Serena shrugged her shoulders, "Sure, why not?"
After sitting down, Serena and Molly became engrossed in a nice conversation with all of the men. And luckily, Serena was capable of remembering all their names, so it went much smoother for her. There was Zoicite, Malachite, Jedite, or Jed for short, and Nephlite. As for Dave though, he was not there. "So, you attend the college her?" Malichite asked. Serena nodded, "Oh yes, both Molly and I do. I'm an art major, and Molly's studying fashion design." "So it seems we're in the presence of great talent." Nephlite said while smiling and taking a drink of some kind of red liquid. Gulping, Serena tried not to think to hard on what was exactly in the wine glass he had.
"Oh, I wouldn't say that." Molly replied blushing a bit, something Serena had noticed her doing a lot that night. "Well, I'm more then sure you two are very talented. Darien has not informed us about much over the last week." Malachite said while looking pointedly at Darien.
Glancing over at him, Serena wondered why he remained so quiet. He had barely said more then two words the whole night, and he seemed just fine with that. Something she wouldn't have figured him to be. "Wow, it's 1 a.m." Molly's voice suddenly seemed worried. "Oh wow, I thought we would have been home by eleven. I have a quiz tomorrow, and this project I need to finish." She said standing up. "I'm sorry, but I do think we should be leaving." Serena said standing up with her friend. "We do have class tomorrow, and I think we should get some sleep. We actually came out to cheer up a friend, but he sort of ditched us because he need to get home." Serena said smiling.
"So sorry to see you leave, but I suppose it is best." Zoicite said while standing with the rest of the men. Including Darien.
"Yes, I do believe it's time I escort these two ladies home. It is rather late." He said smirking. Serena just rolled her eyes. She new very well that one a.m. was nothing for the guys in the room. "Well, nice talking with you all. I'm sure we'll be seeing each other soon though." Serena said smiling. "Indeed." Malachite replied with a nod of his head. "Yes, very nice talking to you." Molly said as she and Serena walked towards the door.
Exiting the room, the girls gave one last good bye to the guys, before they walked through the crowded room once more, and outside. The streets were almost empty, and the night had seemed to have gotten colder. Running a hand through her hair, Serena shivered and pulled her coat tighter around her. "Wow, it's really cold out here." She said, her teeth chattering. "Quite cold." Darien replied taking a deep breath of the night air.
"Well then lets find the car quick and get the hell out of dodge, it's too cold for my liking." Molly said as she briskly started walking down the street. Turning around, Serena smiled at Darien. "We'd better follow quick or else she may be inclined to leave us here." Serena said.
Causally walking beside her and placing an arm around her shoulders to give her warmth, he smirked, "Well, then lets go." He said. Walking to the car, Serena found herself even more drawn to the man beside her. Their light conversation was relaxing, and his gentle touches made her swoon.
Then when they finally made it to the car, Serena felt again at a loss when she wasn't able to sit beside him. He rode in the backseat while she and Molly rode in the front. Oh, she knew she could have ridden in back with him, but it seemed silly to her. So, she just tried to brush it off.
Reaching Molly's house, Serena said her goodbyes to her friend before getting into Darien's black BMW.
Sitting beside him on the way back to his house, she suddenly felt awkward. Not to mention insecure. For one, she had never seen him drive before, and another thing was that the whole confined space made it a bit unbearable. "I can assure you I drive very well." He said.
Snapping her attention away from the window, Serena looked at him to see him smirking. "Well, I wasn't afraid if that's what you assumed." She said grinning a bit, and turning her gaze back to the dark scenery that they passed. "Oh, I didn't think you were afraid. I just thought it amused you. A vampire driving a car. Shouldn't I be flying or something?" he said teasingly. Serena just laughed. "Yeah, really. Or shouldn't you be in the form of a bat." She replied.
"Oh, I think it's too much trouble to shape shift. After all, why would anyone want to fly in such weather?" he asked. Raising an eyebrow at him, Serena bit her bottom lip. "Darien....you can't shape shift can you?" she asked. He only smiled in reply. "Darien?" she asked. He chuckled. "Darien, are you messing with me?"
Taking a turn, Darien still didn't answer. "Darien!" Serena said poking him in the ribs. "Ah-ah, no assaulting the driver." he said while catching her hand in his own. Feeling the warmth of his skin on hers, suddenly made her shiver. Looking at Serena, Darien brought the hand to his lips and kissed it. "It's awfully distracting." He said.
Feeling a lump form in her throat, Serena suddenly felt out of breath. Averting his eyes back to the road, Darien still didn't let go of her hand, entwining his fingers with her own, he gently caressed her smooth flesh with his thumb. A lulling sensation that made Serena want to fall asleep.
Resting her head against the head rest, Serena smiled lazily. It was a wonder that she felt at so at ease, and decided just to go with it rather than fight it. Glancing at Darien with half hooded eyes, she saw him snicker, "And no, I cannot shape shift. That's only a myth, a fairytale designed to amuse children." He said.
Looking at her, Darien winked "You shouldn't believe everything you hear about my kind." He said. Serena flinched at the words 'my kind', feeling as if it was said to make her feet touch ground with reality again. He was a vampire, and she was a human. They were both similar, yet very different. "Not so different Serena." Darien said as he pulled up into his mansions circle drive. Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, Serena stared at him.
Putting the car in park and turning off the engine, Darien looked at her. "We do have a reflection, and yes the sun can kill us. And as for garlic necklaces and crosses, I find them to be perfect for ornamentation." He said getting out of the car.
About to grab her door handle, Serena was surprised to se Darien already opening the door for her. Extending a hand, he helped her out and they both walked into the mansion together.
Standing in the vast entryway, Serena chewed her bottom lip as she shrugged off her jacket. "What about coffins?" she suddenly asked turning around to see him. Standing with his hands placed behind his back, she tilted his head at her.
Clenching and unclenching her jacket in her hands, she wondered if she should have asked. But was a bit relieved when he chuckled. "Would you like to see?"
*
Following Darien to the east wing of his mansion, Serena felt a bit nervous. Where exactly was he leading her? "I sleep underground." He said. "In my basement." Blinking in surprise, Serena kind of laughed. "You sleep in a basement?" she asked. He stopped in his tracks, allowing Serena to join his at his side. "Does that surprise you?" he asked. Toying with her fingers, Serena shrugged, "No, not really. It's just that....I would think you would sleep somewhere a little more.." "Dignified?" He asked smirking. Serena just rolled her eyes. "Well maybe." She said. Darien only laughed and put an arm around her wait, leading her down the hallway which had only one door at the very end.
Suddenly becoming a bit frazzled at seeing the only door in the hallway being made of iron, Serena stopped and looked at Darien wearily, "so that's where we're going?" Serena asked. Darien nodded slowly while stroking her side gently, "Yes love, I have to keep my dwelling protected, so don't be to alarmed. I'd never lead you somewhere you would find disturbing." He said.
Sighing Serena shook her head. "I must be crazy." She said. Chuckling, Darien kissed her temple tenderly. "Not crazy, just to intrigued." He whispered in her ear. Smiling wryly, she let out a small laugh and continued on with Darien. Past the door and down the stairs they awaited on the other side.
Walking down them, Serena shivered as she felt the cold temperature in the room. Electrical sconces lined the wall to her left as she walked down the spiral hall staircase. "This is almost like out of a movie." Serena said to herself. "Hmm, I had never thought of it that way." Darien said hugging her tighter to his side. Happy that the narrowness of the stairwell was still capable of allowing them to still walk side by side.
Gasping as she finally came to the bottom of the stairwell, Serena covered her mouth with her hand. "Oh my God." She said. The room was large, capable of accommodating two soft looking couches and a rather large canopy bed. A lot like the one that was in Darien's room. Accept this particular one looked much older. The walls of the room were looked like they were made of cement, and then painted a deep burgundy red. Like clotted blood. Shivering, Serena rubbed her arms. "It's cold in here Darien, how can you sleep like this? It's unbearable." She said. Feeling his hands rub her forearms, she looked back at him. "The cold helps me from feeling the suns rays." He said, his head right next to hers.
Looking back at the room, Serena noticed again what she had in the first place. There was no coffin. "No, no coffin love. I sleep in a bed, just as you do." He said while grinning.
Walking away from him, Serena passed the two couches to reach the bed. "Hmm, I guess you don't." she said laughing and looking at the finely carved cherry wood post. Touching one of the marks, a sudden flash of something had her quickly withdrawing her hand.
It was a brief moment, but it was still there. Rubbing her fingertips with her thumb, Serena looked at her hand in curiosity. 'What was that?' she thought. Looking up at the wood again, she frowned. It was something familiar. Raising and eyebrow, Serena took a deep breath, then touched the wood again, wrapping her hand around the post.
Suddenly, Serena was no long looking at just the bed post. But another scene entirely. Two people immersed in love making were in front of her. The woman's hands wrapped in a death grip around the post, a mere five inches up from where Serena's hand was placed.
Golden hair covered both her and the dark haired man, and also shrouded her face as her head was turned down to the crook if his neck, and his was the turned into hers. Slow moans were emitted from the woman as she rocked desperately on her lovers lap, growing louder and louder while his hands massaged and gripped her thighs.
Then suddenly, Grasping the backs of her bent knees that were sprawled to either side of him, the man pulled her in closer to him, meshing their bodies tightly together as his arms wrapped around her. Moaning loudly, The woman suddenly picked up her head, and threw it back to shout at the ceiling. Her back arched in his embrace, and the man was then suckling gently on the woman's breast. Moaning again, the woman looked down at him, and Serena gasped.
That woman had her face. That woman, was her. Feeling a heat then, Serena was no long standing there holding the post, but now in the woman's position. Staring down at her lover, Serena moaned loudly again, drawing his attention up to her. Staring into his eyes, Serena then saw Darien. His eyes still that same stormy blue, and his hair tousled from their savage acts.
Gasping, Serena let go of the post, and stumbled backwards, her back colliding with the solid wall. Panting, Serena felt beads of sweat lingering on her skin. Fingers flexing on the wall behind her, Serena stared at the floor beneath her feet, too afraid to look anywhere else. Her body was responding to the image, and her mind reeled with fresh memories of her and Darien locked in intimate embraces. Of her gripping the headboard, and clinging helplessly to sheets.
Taking a shaky breath, Serena finally look up to the bed. It was the exact same bed her and Darien had shared so many decades ago. That same frame and carve of the wood. Yes it was their bed. Looking to her left, she saw Darien standing there calmly, his eyes displaying the same lust she saw while straddling him.
Walking to over to stand in front of her trembling body, Darien didn't touch her in any way, but merely lingered instead. Allowing his eyes to roam over her face and body, he let out a breath, feeling heated desire surge through his body. "Serena..." he practically growled.
Breathing audibly, Serena didn't move as he hovered hardly half a foot in front of her. Leaning his forehead against hers, he placed both his hands against the wall beside her waist. "Do you doubt anything now?" he asked her, his breath hot against her face. Staring at his mouth, Serena shook her head slightly.
Grinning devilishly, Darien pressed his body into her soft yielding one, hearing a gasp of surprise escape her lips as he did so. Leaning her head back against the wall, Serena looked into his eyes, realizing he had her pinned. But she was too enticed by it to let her rationalizing mind take hold of her senses.
Then suddenly, Serena gasped as his hips grinded into hers and she felt his arousal pressed against her. Taking a breath, her eyes went wide. Darien only smiled at her surprise, knowing full well she had never been in such a situation. "No doubts then?" he asked again. Shaking her head, Serena licked her lips. "Good." Was all he said before he closed the distance between there mouths. Kissing her passionately against the wall, Darien wrapped his arms around her waist, surprised that Serena was kissing him back just as powerfully as he was.
Breaking the kiss suddenly, Darien looked down at her, trying to catch his breath. Whimpering t the loss of contact, Serena stared up at him in surprise. Looking around her, the room seemed to have taken on another form. The walls weren't bare anymore, but elaborately decorated. And sconces with candles littered them as well. Then, feeling an odd weight on her head, Serena glanced down to see blond hair flow past her shoulders to mid thigh. Looking at Darien again, Serena took a deep breath. "What's happened?" she asked him breathlessly. Darien caressed her back with his hands, "It's an illusion Serena. The mind sees what it wants to see." He said huskily to her.
Serena licked her lips again, twining her arms around his neck then, "And this is what I want to see?" she asked him, bringing his head closer to hers. Darien sighed. "I don't know Serena, is it?" he asked her, implying the question that was already tugging at Serenas heart.
Sighing in the same fashion as Darien, Serena then grinned, leaning her forehead against his. Pressing her body against his, She laughed a small laugh, "This is what I want to see." She said, closing her eyes and kissing him lightly on his lips.
Bringing her mouth away from his, Serena opened her eyes again, "Are you sure Serena?" he asked in a serious tone. Smiling, Serena nodded her head. "Yes Darien, I'm sure." Hearing those words come from her was like pouring gasoline on a fire, and soon enough Darien was kissing her again. Pressing her up against the wall, and caressing her back through her clothing.
Moans escaping the back of her throat, Serena clenched and unclenched Darien's clothes in her hands. Groaning at her wanting need, Darien suddenly moved his hands from her back, and moved them down to grasp her bottom. Then in one swift motion, picked her up, pinning her between the wall and him.
Making a small sound of surprise, Serena instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist feeling his arousal press into her so intimately that she gasped. Breaking the kiss, Darien panted while looking up at her. "Serena" he growled.
Stepping away from the wall, he carried her in his hands to the bed, where he gently deposited her. Looking down at her, knees bent and legs open, her cheeks flushed and her lips swollen from his kisses, made him groan.
Lying down between her legs, he gently deposited his weight, feeling her hands come up to grasp his shoulders. "Darien.." She whispered softly as he kissed her again, except this time slowly and sweetly. Pushing his coat off of his shoulders, she felt him shrug off his coat and then work on the buttons of his shirt while still holding their kiss.
Opening her eyes as he broke their kiss again, she looked at his shirtless form. He was amazing. Looking as if he were chiseled out of marble like a Greek statue. Smiling down into her appreciative gaze, he slowly began to undress her. Her shoes, her pants, her blouse, until she lay there before him naked and blushing.
Grabbing the blanket off the bed to cover herself, he suddenly stopped her. "Don't." he whispered leaning down to her. "You're beautiful." Feeling her whole body blush, Serena smiled in reply as she then felt Darien's lips on her collar bone.
Moaning as he kissed and nibbled on her neck, she could only do so more as each touch and caress heightened her pleasure. His hands doing wicked things to her, as his mouth traveled about her breast and roamed over her neck. Sweet kisses that made her swoon, and shift on the bed. And even with the feeling of this whole new experience, it was like she had done it a thousand times before.
Shouting to the ceiling and arching her back as hand flexed between her legs and over her most sensitive area, she grasped his wrists, her hips bucking with the intensity of the wicked flood of pleasure that moved through her being. Eyes wide in shock at the new feeling, she gasped, and ever so slowly, came down back to earth. Panting and heaving.
Looking down at Darien, she blushed as she saw the grin lingering on his face. Moving off her, Darien fully undressed himself and turned down the bed, watching Serena as she avoided looking at his naked form. Smiling at her innocence, he crawled into bed beside her, wrapping his arms around her and cradling her head in the crook of his neck. Closing her eyes, Serena took a deep breath, taking in his scent. A scent so pure to her, it was almost like a drug. Hearing him growl, Serena giggled a bit, nuzzling him gently. When she became so brave, she never knew, but her giggling stopped just as quickly as it had begun as Darien rolled over, positioning himself above her. Taking in shallow breaths, Serena picked her head up, and placed a gentle kiss on his lips while wrapping her legs around his lean hips.
"Darien?" she asked him. His breathing labored with self restraint, he answered, "Yes?" he asked her. Smiling, Serena nuzzled his face. "Take me." She whispered to him. Groaning, Darien felt her legs wrap tighter around him and he clenched his teeth as he suddenly entered her. Sucking in air, Serena arched off the bed. The pain of it ripping through her, causing her to scream. Mouth gaping open, Serena slowly felt the pain ease though as Darien clasped her hands in his, and began to move in a rhythm that she picked up easily. So familiar, so welcomed, Serena could on flail in the pleasures that rocked her back and fourth.
Moaning, gasping, clawing, Serena finally felt her own release, as well as Darien's. Calling out his name, Serena's back arched once again, and slowly, once again, reality set in around her. Looking about the room, she saw it was the same one she had enter before. Breathless and spent, She felt Darien move off of her, to rest by her side. Wrapping her up in an embrace that made her shiver. Her head pillowed on his chest, she sighed her eye lids feeling heavy as her the latenes of the hour finally caught up with her "Darien..." she finally said after a while of basking in his embrace. "yes love?" he asked in his husky voice. "I love you." She said.
Tilting his head to look down at her, se watched she she snuggled closer to him and soon fell asleep in his arms. Smoothing down her hair, he grinned, "I love you too, my Serenity..."
******************************************************************* OK, ok, it has taken me a while to get this chapter out. Believe I know. But hey, it's long though, so that has to make up for something ehh? After all, this is the longest chapter I've ever written! Anywhoo though ^.^, I hope you enjoyed. I'm working on the next one right now. Can't promise when it'll be out, but reviews just might help me get it out faster...^.^. Anyway, that's it for me. Ciao for now!-Twigs
"Indeed you should have." The red haired man replied, placing his hands behind his back in the same fashion ad Darien while grinning a little grin. Though totally lacking in the radiating, self poised charm that seemed to flow from Darien like a waterfall.
"Um, excuse me." Serena said over the music. The men had spoken to each other in a normal tone of voice, so she couldn't hear exactly what had been said. But she knew that they had understood one another clearly enough. 'Damn vampires' Serena thought, looking around the dance floor at the dancing people.
Looking past the red haired man, she saw Darien raise an eyebrow at her. Serena simply stuck out her tongue, 'Ya herd me!' she yelled mentally.
Smiling, Darien nodded his head at the other man. A surprising act indeed, being that Serena had thought for sure he was about to kill him. "Luther, I do believe you have very good taste in women, but I must say that this one belongs to me. And I cannot allow you to lay a finger on her." He said, reaching behind Luther and grabbing Serena gently by her wrist.
Serena, being unable to resist the pull, found herself pined against Darien's side with a strong arm wrapped around her waist. Sighing, Serena rolled her eyes around the room, trying to give off a sense of annoyance. Though, she felt herself starting to like the embraces she constantly found herself in with Darien.
"I see. Well, I am sorry Darien. You should have proclaimed her then. I would have known if you would have. Though I somewhat have the feeling she will not concede for you to do so." Luther said, eyeing Serena wearily.
Though Serena strained to hear the words he was speaking, she picked up most of it and groaned. 'Oh, Now what?' she thought. Darien chuckled then, but the only way she noticed was by the deep rumbling she felt vibrate through his being. That, and a sudden look straight into her eyes. Gulping, Serena smiled, trying to break up the tension she was suddenly feeling. "I think I will do so tonight Luther. It does sound like a good idea. We are out now, and her friend is with us. Someone she cares for. So I, in turn, will care for her as well." He said, without looking away from Serena.
Now that, Serena had fully heard. He was trying to make up for the incident which had happened the night before. Consisting of an unconscious Molly and crushed cell phone that she pretended to look for with her friend. "Well then, I should be off then. You will keep her safe Darien, I'm sure. Perhaps if you do decide to take her there tonight, you will see me there. Until then Darien." Luther said. And with that, he disappeared into the crowd, walking away so swiftly, you'd think there was no crowd at all.
Looking up at Darien, Serena sighed, and tried to push away from him, only to find herself unable to do so. Surprise, surprise. "Darien, come on, let's get off the dance floor." She said, turning only slightly in his embrace. "Serena, I think we should be leaving now." He said casually.
"Darien..why now? It's not like I haven't been hit on by men before. And as hard as it is for me to say this, It's not like I haven't been hit on by vampires either." She said sternly. Darien only laughed. "Really now? You're so accustomed to it then are you?" he said. Serena groaned, and finally was able to detangle herself from him. "Come on, you left Andrew there alone and I'm afraid some drunken women's gonna take advantage of his fragile state." She said while leading Darien across the split level dance floor, and up the stairs.
Standing by the railing that lined the dance floor, Serena scanned the room for her friend. "Molly is at the bar Serena." Darien said, interrupting her thoughts. "I sent her there when I assured her you were ok." He said smiling.
Sighing, Serena stopped looking, and simply gazed around. "Are you ready to leave then?" he asked. Serena shook her head, "Darien, we just got here. And I only got to dance once. And once is never enough for me. Especially when I'm under stress." She said, taping her fingers on the chrome railing. "Hmm, and why would you be under stress?" he asked. Serena rolled her eyes, "Oh please. As if you had no clue at all." She said. Darien only grinned. "Well, besides the mentioned fact that you only had one dance, I must bring up another good reason to leave now." He said.
Looking up at him, Serena folded her arms across her chest, "And what would that be?" she asked. Darien leaned down a bit, to be closer to her, "I don't like the idea of men groping you out there." He said through clenched teeth.
Serenas eyes went wide. He was jealous! Ha! She had managed to make a vampire jealous of a mortal man. "Don't be so sure Serena." He said. Smiling, Serena realized he had read her thoughts. "Don't be so sure ehh? Well, you said it buddy, not me." She said laughing a bit.
Glancing around the room once more, Serena tried to find Molly, but couldn't see her. "Wonder where she is." She asked herself. Looking back at Darien, she realized he was staring at her intently. Giving her a look that made her want to melt, but at the same time made her uncomfortable. She hated that, because every time he did, it made her feel as if she were naked. "What?" she asked him, wanting to know exactly what he was thinking. He only smiled in reply.
"Darien, look." she began, taking a small step back from him. "If you are so paranoid about me being out there on the dance floor, why don't you just come with me?" she asked while feeling a smile creep on to her face. Laughing mentally, she wondered why she had even asked him. He seemed so refined, why would he even consider learning how to dance the way the younger generation did? Besides, could she even really handle both of them in being so close and....well, ya know.
"Considering the stability of the relationship we now have, I think it's probably too delicate to allow certain movements in such a close proximity." Darien said grinning. Blinking in surprise, Serenas train of thought was suddenly altered. 'So he had been thinking that the whole time.' she thought. Sighing, she turned and leaned her stomach against the rail. "Yeah, yeah,.." She mumbled.
Watching her through half hooded eyes, Darien turned to stand directly by her side, and placed hand on the small of her back. Feeling a chill go up her spine, Serena tried to rationalize with her sudden surge of emotions. The emotions that she constantly kept in check. She didn't want to deal with them, didn't want to dwell on them. She had barely known Darien a week, and he was already conjuring up visions in her head, and feelings in her heart. Something she never allowed anyone to do.
"Darien, stop alright?" she said in annoyance. "Something wrong?" he questioned, without removing his hand. Huffing, Serena leaned her head back a little. It wasn't that she was angry with him, how could she be? It was herself she was angry with. She had no way of controlling any of the situations she was in, whenever she was with him. And that made her feel lost. She rarely ever put so much faith into a person before, and what Darien was doing was making up her mind about him, for her. 'Don't I already have my mind made up though?' she thought to herself.
Shaking her head, Serena didn't even want to go there. Her feelings would be placed on a shelf to be dealt with later. "Serena?" She heard him ask again. Gritting her teeth, she sighed, "Yeah?" she asked looking over at him. "What's wrong?"
Running a hand through her hair, she looked out into the crowd of dancing people in front of her and slouched, "Darien, aren't you supposed to be able to read thoughts? Cause I already know you know what I'm thinking, and I also know that you know that I know you are the most incredible guy I've ever met and I can't compare you to anything so it makes me uncomfortable cause I don't know what I'm talking about, but you know me better than I do and you are driving me absolutely insane!" she said closing her eyes and putting her hands to her head.
Taking a deep breath, Serena wondered where her sudden ranting had come from. Dropping her hands to her side, she looked back at him.
His expression hadn't changed at all. He still wore his smirk, and she still felt his hand on the small of her back. So had any of her words even been heard? "Serena." He began. "I can read your mind with clarity, as well as your emotions. But I prefer you to speak them, because when you do, it shows that you're not willingly trying to hide anything from Me." He said.
Serena rolled her eyes. "Darien, come on. What does it matter? You're going to anyway. So lets just cut through the B.S. alright?" she said sternly, beginning to feel anger rising in her.
Darien frowned at her words, becoming suddenly very competitive. She was throwing road blocks in his way to stop him from getting to her. He knew she was a very self guarded person, and was rarely caught with her guard down; but all along he knew everything had to come to a boiling point, so now was just as good a time as any.
With quick motions, Darien moved his hand from the small of her back, to her waist and pulled her close to him. Turning her in his embrace, they faced each other, with both his arms wrapped securely around her. "Darien, what are you doing?" she asked, bringing her arms between both their bodies. Darien only tightened his hold on her and brought his face closer to hers, making Serena gasp.
"So you want to cut through all the B.S. do you?" he asked just as sternly as she had. Serenas brows furrowed. Her eyes showing a bit of fear in them. "Well then lets. Lets start with that fact that you're been hiding things from me from the very beginning, showing me nothing but common curiosity when you know damn well you know more about me then you presume to. You place yourself behind a wall, deny your feelings, and leave me out in the cold. How's that for driving someone insane?" He asked.
Serena gulped, but somewhere along the way was able to find her voice, "Ha, hiding things from you? Please, I've never been capable of hiding anything from you! You raid my mind like you own it, and frankly scare the begesus out of me! You're always around me, constantly putting me through endless amounts of worry because I'm afraid you'll be insulted by a thought! Well I'm sorry if I can't be as up front about my feelings that you say I deny. I can't help it. I've known you hardly a week and you're asking for unthought of devotion when you know damn well I can't give it after such a short time!" she screamed the last bit feeling tears rim her eyes.
"You say you know me! So I would think you'd be at least more understanding. But no, you become angry when I can't put out all the emotion that you do!" she yelled again.
"No Serena, you're wrong about that!" Darien said. "I don't become angry that you're not as forthcoming about you feelings as I am. It is my nature, and I am sorry if I have made you feel as such. But what I become frustrated about is that you deny all of Me!" he said angrily. "You deny my love, you deny yours, our past, our present, and you refuse to accept what I am. That is what has you scared. You know I would slit my own throat before I would let you come into any danger. I would even walk into the sun if it would spare you hurt; But I will not do that Serena, just because you ask to have your old life back. You cannot. You are what you are, and I am what I am. Nothing will change it, so stop trying to. I will never let you go Serena. I will not lose you again. I have once, and I'll be damned if I allow it again. I'll see you come to me yet, and I can assure that you will not be disappointed when you do." His words were heated, and his tone was strong. He was more upset then she imagined.
Serena didn't know what to say. What could she say? How was she supposed to react to that? Everything he mentioned was true, and it made her feel ignorant. He had known her tribulations, and was all the while, trying to help her through them. She was an idiot. Looking down, Serena felt real tears surface, and let out a sob. "Serena." He said softly.
Surprised she could hear him, Serena looked back up again. "Serena, please.." He said, whipping a tear away with his thumb. "Don' cry over this Serena. Just understand that I need you, more then you'll ever know. I love you."
At first, the background noise could be heard. The beat of the music, and peoples voices. But after those last three words were spoken, Serena heard nothing. Only the sound of her own pulse in her ears, and the feeling of Darien's embrace.
From Darien's lips, Serena had heard the three words that were, probably, the most feared words men ever had to contend with. "What?" she asked breathlessly. Darien only smiled in reply at he bent his head closer to hers. "I said I loved you Serena." He said
Blinking in surprise, Serena felt her legs go numb. Her mind reeled. 'Come on Serena. Answer him! You know he's waiting for an answer. Say it back!' she thought. But her mouth produced no words, except noises. Feeling the rumbling chuckle in Darien's chest, the last thing Serena saw were his eyes as his lips descended on her own.
Feeling a rush go through her body, Serena's mind flashed with visions. So many in fact, it was hard for her to make out reality from fantasy, because some of the visions were just too much to be believed.
Rose gardens with cool blades of grass on summer days, and heavy breaths and a warm bed on cold nights. Dances in wide dresses, and classical music. Dreamy situations, and kisses behind closed doors. Touches, scents, his scent. So much, almost too much to bare.
Eyes opening, Serena slowly felt the world return to the way it was. She heard the music of her era surround her, and the actual temperature of the place. It was hot. Uncomfortably hot. Looking into Darien's eyes, she unknowingly held her breath. During their little time laps, Serena realized she had unconsciously wrapped her arms around his neck. An action she was more than accustomed to. "Darien..." she began to speak. Darien only placed a finger over her lips and smiled cunningly. He had won, and he knew it.
"Serena!" A voice called out over the music. Serena grinned back at Darien, unable to control her sudden feeling of happiness. The world was no longer pressing down on her shoulders, and she now felt as light as a feather. "Serena!" the voice called again, this time sounding closer.
Snapping out of her daydream, Serena shook her head slightly, and looked behind Darien. It was Molly, standing only eight feet away from them, but unable to get through the crowd of people. Laughing, Serena released her hold from around Darien's neck, and looked back up at him. "Molly needs some help." She said, her voice mellow and subdued.
Giving a quick look back over his left shoulder, Darien nodded in reply. "So she does." Seeing people suddenly part a way for Molly, Serena rolled her eyes. "I meant I needed to be let go so I could help her. Not put it in all those peoples heads that they needed to take a step to the right or left." She said. Darien only smirked, "Well you never know Serena. It could all just be coincidence." He said. Sighing, Serena laughed a bit before turning her attention to her friend. "Hey Mol, where you been?" Serena asked.
Molly just smiled. "Oh, I was just talking to this really great guy named Luther, that's all." She said, smiling stupidly. Serenas jaw dropped. "Who did yo..?" "I do believe we must be going now ladies." Darien cut in, letting one arm leave Serenas waist, though he left one still wrapped around her.
Molly raised her eyebrows, "Huh? Why? Why are we leaving? Didn't you just hear me say a guys name?" she asked. Serena laughed, "Yeah, I did, and ya know what? I don't think I like the name much." Grabbing Molly's wrist, she led her back to the table where Andrew was supposed to be. Feeling Darien's arm slip off her waist while walking away, Serena looked back remorsefully at him. He only winked at her, and motioned with his head to the bar. 'Luther' her told her mentally. Serena nodded an ok, but still felt at a loss. Shouldn't they have done more than just kiss? She wondered this for a moment, staring at Darien as if he were transparent, before coming back to reality to see him grinning.
Blushing, Serena turned dramatically and walked back to the table. Luckily, Andrew was still there, and he didn't look half as mournful as he had. "Hey Drew, how's your night been?" Serena asked, sitting beside him. Andrew just smiled, "Well, I talked to Darien, and ya know what? I think he should be a shrink. Seriously, he told me some things about myself and my situation, that no one else has pointed out to Me." He said.
Serena smiled and sighed, "Really? And what would that be?" Serena asked, crossing her arms on the table and giving a sly look at Molly. "Oh, that she's a big whore and that I shouldn't be whining about it." He said laughing. Serenas jaw dropped, "Excuse me? Did you just call the 'love of your life' a whore?" She asked.
Andrew just smiled and leaned back in his seat, putting his hands behind his head. "Love of my life? Please, I could have any woman in this bar." He said, sticking up his chin and grinning like a fool. Serena just rolled her eyes, "I swear, are men born with this ego or was it placed in them the moment they saw a girl looking at them?" she asked Molly.
Molly just shrugged her shoulders, "It's hard to tell. And I bet he's so happy with himself now, that he's not even going to think to remember that we had been calling her a whore from day one!" Molly had yelled the last part before she leaned over the table and gave him a light punch in the shoulder. "Hey, hey now, are we going off the deepened now or what?" He asked laughing and rubbing the spot Molly had hit.
Molly just smirked and sat back down. "Look, as long as you're happy." Serena said, looking around. She wondered where Darien had gone off to, when she looked out onto the dance floor. She didn't know exactly why her attention had been drawn there, but for some reason, she felt the need to scan the whole place.
That's when she saw a familiar face. A strangely familiar face. A smooth complexion with blond hair tied back at the nape of his neck. A man that seemed to spark something in her. A feeling to flee, or, fight? She didn't understand.
"Serena" Looking up sharply, She saw Darien standing right beside her. "What's wrong?" he asked her. Looking back out into the dancing crowd, she saw he was gone. But he had been looking right at her. "Umm..." Serena couldn't think of what to say. "Serena." He asked again. Looking back up, she only mumbled. "There was a..a .." She looked again, he was still nowhere to be seen.
Turning around in her seat, Molly began to look into the crowd with her, "Rena, what are you looking at?" she asked. Shaking her head a little, Serena just sighed, "Nothing, never mind. I just thought I saw someone from school is all." She said, covering up her sudden discomfort. Molly turned back around and huffed, "Well, I guess he's gone now then." She said. "So what were you talking about earlier? About leaving?" she asked. Serena blinked a coupe of times to wash the feeling of hazard from her mind.
She didn't know why, but something screamed danger in her soul. "Serena, we should be going now, don't you think?" Darien asked her, leaning a hand on the table. Serena Looked at Molly, "Oh yeah, we were gonna...leave?" she asked, looking back up at Darien.
He was smiling down at her, a small smile that made her melt. God, why was she so susceptible to all his minor actions and movements? "Yes leave, I know of a place that I think you will enjoy." He said winking at her. "Really? What's it called?" Molly asked, leaning her elbows on the table.
Darien turned his head towards her, "Oh, it's a lounge actually. Not a club. Very decent, sophisticated. I'm sure a lovely woman such as yourself will have no problem fitting in." he said with a smile. Molly smiled back and blushed, resting her head in her hands, and looking at Serena. "Really now? Well, if I can fit in so well, I think we should go then." She said.
Serena felt a twinge of knowledge about what particular place Darien was talking about. "UH, Darien?.Sweetie? Um, would this be a vampire bar, perchance?" she asked, smiling a fake, sweet smile up at him. Darien looked back down at her, brushing a piece of her golden hair behind her ear with his right hand. "Something along those lines." He stated simply. Serena glared at him with a smile. 'You're honestly not thinking of taking me, or taking *us* back there are you?' she asked mentally. Darien just grinned, and leaned down to plant a kiss on the top of her head. 'sorry love, but something has to be done for your own protection.' He replied.
"Ok, so let's go!" Molly said excitedly while standing up. "You coming Andrew?" she asked. Andrew Gave a look towards Darien, then at Serena, "Hmm, I think I'll pass." He said. "Oh come on, were out here tonight for you!" Molly said in a pleading voice. But Andrew just shook his head. "No, no, you girls go. I think I'm gonna get packed and get an early flight back to Houston. There's really no use of me staying here any longer anyway. And I need to say bye to my parents." He said.
Standing up, Serena sighed, "Are you really gonna try and leave tonight?" she asked sadly. It was rare her friend ever came home, and she didn't want him to leave so soon. But the sudden arms that wrapped around her waist quickly reminded her of her little situation. Then the feel of Darien nuzzling her shoulder made her forget about Andrew all together. "Yeah, I should get back to Houston. God only knows how much I've missed. And it's never good for a medical student to miss any classes." He said laughing and getting up from the table.
"Well, I'll miss you Drew. You have a safe trip ok?" Serena said smiling. She was going to give her friend a hug, but the arms around her held her in place. Andrew just smiled at her. "I will. Bye Mol." he said, giving her a hug. "And Darien, thanks a lot, you take care of her now." He said, gesturing to Serena. Darien nodded his head. "I surely will. Good luck to you Andrew." Nodding, Andrew smiled and then walked off to leave. "There goes the future savior of the world." Serena said sighing. "Yeah, and there goes my date for the night." Molly replied, "Now I'm stuck with you two love birds. Hurray for the third wheel." She said dejectedly.
Serena laughed as she felt Darien's nose tickle her neck, "Oh come on Mol, you're never a third wheel." She said laughing again and swatting at him to stop. Molly just rolled her eyes, " Yeah whatever, so where are we going now?" she asked. Ceasing is nuzzling, Darien picked up his head, "It's called the Vamp Lounge, and I think you should enjoy it."
Huffing Serena gave Darien a worried look that pierced his heart. "Don't worry Serena, I'm here." He whispered to her reassuringly. Looking into her eyes, Serena felt a feeling of comfort wash over her. "Hello?" Molly asked, waving a hand at the two who were looking at each other so intimately. Looking up at Molly, Darien smiled, "The third wheel would like to go then." She said teasingly. Serena laughed. "Ok, ok, we're gone." She said.
Leaving the club, Molly spotted Andrew standing next to a streetlight taking on his cell phone. "I'll be right back. I forgot, we're the one's who drove him here!" Molly said laughing. Serena laughed too. "OK, you go talk to him." She said.
Watching Molly walk away, she felt someone's hand take her own. Looking behind her, she saw Darien standing there with a smug smile on his face. She giggled a little, "Yes?" she asked with a smile. Kissing the back of her hand, Darien grinned devilishly at her, "Are we feeling better about our little 'situation'?" he asked. Serena huffed, but her smiled didn't fade. "Maybe." She said.
Placing his other hand on her hip, he pulled Serena closer to him, and continued to kiss the back of her hand with tantalizing slowness. "Hmm, I think that.. Maybe. we should skip the whole night out in general, and return home." He said. Serena blushed. "And then ...maybe..." he said, stopping his kisses to look at her, "We should go to bed."
His voice was husky and smooth, and his eyes midnight blue. Showing all the torment and frustration of centuries, as well as lust and loneliness. Something she had failed to see before. Or, it was possible that she had, but refused to acknowledge it. "Darien..." she whispered.
"Ok, he got a cab." Molly said walking over to the two of them. Taking a deep, shaky breath, Serena smiled, "Oh good." She said smiling. Eyeing Darien and Serena, Molly smiled wickedly, "Ya know, I was thinking that maybe I should be going to, I think I have some things to do at home." She said.
Darien had barely acknowledged Molly's words, but Serena knew what she had said, all too well. "Molly, come on, it'll be fun." She said, walking from Darien to place an arm around her friends shoulder. Serena had been shaking in his embrace and was afraid if she had stayed too long, then he would sweep her off her feet and carry her back home. Literally.
Raising an eyebrow, Molly smirked and let her gaze wander from her friend to Darien. Serena seemed on edge, while Darien seemed the epitome of calm. But she knew very well that he was on edge just as much as Serena was. And if she didn't know better, Darien was about to jump her bones in the middle of the street.
Laughing suddenly, Molly placed her arm around Serenas shoulder as well, "Well, ok then, lead the way." Smiling with relief, Serena looked removed her arm from Molly's shoulder, and locked arms with her. "Lets go then." Looking up at Darien, she waited a moment in uncomfortable silence before me grinned slightly and turned on his heel.
Mentally sighing, Serena walked a few paces behind Darien, still joined to Molly. She couldn't explain it, but for some reason, she felt as if she had better not tamper with the delicacy of their relationship. She and Darien had suddenly become very close, and within an hour, had practically fallen against one another in passion. And as tempting as it sounded to Serena, she had to keep sane. She had to keep her sanity, and her head on her shoulders. But then again, nothing about her predicament was sane. Darien was a real vampire, and she was involved in some kind of obscene circumstance, having to do with past lives and someone wanting vengeance on her.
The it hit her. She had forgotten all about it. For some stupid reason, weather it be Darien, or the stress she was under, she had forgotten that she was the target of attack. Darien himself had even said it. Someone who hated him, was after her for some reason, and no one knew why. Becoming very cautious all of the sudden, Serena began look around, and caught up with Darien's minimal pace in front of them.
Walking by his side, she looked up at him, trying to portray what she was feeling, but not knowing if she was getting through to him. After what she had said at the club, she wondered if he would ever dare to read her thoughts again.
Looking down at her, he took her by the hand, and smiled at her first, then at Molly. 'Don't worry love. I'm here, and I can sense danger a mile away. Do not think I am unaware.' Gulping, Serena nodded at him, then at Molly who looked confused, "Am I missing something?" she asked. Serena just laughed. 'You have no idea Molly' she thought.
Stopping suddenly, Serena spotted the door. That same door she and Molly had entered not but a few days earlier. She undoubtedly knew she would be remembered, and that Molly would to. And since Molly didn't remember, wasn't it a bad call to go there? 'They will be fully aware when I enter Serena.' She heard mentally. Looking down at her, he winked, and squeezed her hand reassuringly. Sighing, she plastered on a smile and nudged her friend, "Ok, we're here." She said. "Let's knock em' dead." Molly said smiling.
The entrance was just how Serena remembered it. Dark and spooky. Though at the time she had enjoyed it, now, she would have preferred going home and reading a book. Or, if it meant going home with Darien, well... perhaps reading wasn't exactly at the top of her 'to do' list. 'Oh good GOD! I did not just think that!' Serena screamed at herself. What was she becoming? Where was the rational, self controlled part of her? Never in her life had she ever thought so frivolously about something that was such a big deal to her. "I think I need a drink." She stated to herself. Molly then laughed beside her, "yeah me too." She said.
Groaning, Serena followed Darien down the hall and into the main room, where once again she was greeted by many eyes staring at her. Though what she noticed most, was that how everyone seemed to be in awe. Looking at Darien, He only nodded, and everyone went back to what they were doing.
"Oh my God. Serena, this is the place!" she said looking around. Serena sighed, "Yeah, sure is." She said. Molly just laughed, "I can't believe the hotties that are here!" she squeaked quietly to her friend as she followed both Her and Darien past an array of gorgeous men. Serena just sighed. "Yeah, I know. We've been through this." Serena said, a bit frightened that she was going to see one of those familiar faces again. "Huh?" Molly asked surprisingly. Serena just shook her head. "Never mind." She said back. Squeezing Darien's hand to get his attention, he looked back to see her worried face. "Well, this is It." He said stopping and turning around. "I have a private room here, so we need not have to worry about finding a quite spot in the room."
Placing an arm around Serenas waist, he led her and Molly to the back of the lounge then to a small hallway with a door on each side. Going in through the right one, Darien grinned as he saw his closest friends in sitting about the room.
Allowing Serena and Molly to walk past him, he shut the door behind them. Looking around the room, Serena smiled. She knew Zoicite and recognized the other three men. Though she couldn't remember their names. "Ahh Serena." Zoicite said while standing up from his plush chair.
Walking to her, he smiled and took her hand, kissing the back of it. "So glad to see Darien has let you out of the house." He said giving a swift look at Darien. Darien didn't seem to be bothered by it though.
"Yes, I know. He's been keeping me locked up for a while." She said laughing. Turning his attention from Serena, Zoicite saw Molly standing there, grinning impishly. "And Molly, so good to see you again." He said kissing her hand in the same fashion as he had Serena's. Molly just giggled and let out a small sound of awe as he did so. "Oh, well, .....yes, hello." She said, stumbling over her words. "Well, shall we sit then?" Darien finally spoke up. Looking back at him, Serena shrugged her shoulders, "Sure, why not?"
After sitting down, Serena and Molly became engrossed in a nice conversation with all of the men. And luckily, Serena was capable of remembering all their names, so it went much smoother for her. There was Zoicite, Malachite, Jedite, or Jed for short, and Nephlite. As for Dave though, he was not there. "So, you attend the college her?" Malichite asked. Serena nodded, "Oh yes, both Molly and I do. I'm an art major, and Molly's studying fashion design." "So it seems we're in the presence of great talent." Nephlite said while smiling and taking a drink of some kind of red liquid. Gulping, Serena tried not to think to hard on what was exactly in the wine glass he had.
"Oh, I wouldn't say that." Molly replied blushing a bit, something Serena had noticed her doing a lot that night. "Well, I'm more then sure you two are very talented. Darien has not informed us about much over the last week." Malachite said while looking pointedly at Darien.
Glancing over at him, Serena wondered why he remained so quiet. He had barely said more then two words the whole night, and he seemed just fine with that. Something she wouldn't have figured him to be. "Wow, it's 1 a.m." Molly's voice suddenly seemed worried. "Oh wow, I thought we would have been home by eleven. I have a quiz tomorrow, and this project I need to finish." She said standing up. "I'm sorry, but I do think we should be leaving." Serena said standing up with her friend. "We do have class tomorrow, and I think we should get some sleep. We actually came out to cheer up a friend, but he sort of ditched us because he need to get home." Serena said smiling.
"So sorry to see you leave, but I suppose it is best." Zoicite said while standing with the rest of the men. Including Darien.
"Yes, I do believe it's time I escort these two ladies home. It is rather late." He said smirking. Serena just rolled her eyes. She new very well that one a.m. was nothing for the guys in the room. "Well, nice talking with you all. I'm sure we'll be seeing each other soon though." Serena said smiling. "Indeed." Malachite replied with a nod of his head. "Yes, very nice talking to you." Molly said as she and Serena walked towards the door.
Exiting the room, the girls gave one last good bye to the guys, before they walked through the crowded room once more, and outside. The streets were almost empty, and the night had seemed to have gotten colder. Running a hand through her hair, Serena shivered and pulled her coat tighter around her. "Wow, it's really cold out here." She said, her teeth chattering. "Quite cold." Darien replied taking a deep breath of the night air.
"Well then lets find the car quick and get the hell out of dodge, it's too cold for my liking." Molly said as she briskly started walking down the street. Turning around, Serena smiled at Darien. "We'd better follow quick or else she may be inclined to leave us here." Serena said.
Causally walking beside her and placing an arm around her shoulders to give her warmth, he smirked, "Well, then lets go." He said. Walking to the car, Serena found herself even more drawn to the man beside her. Their light conversation was relaxing, and his gentle touches made her swoon.
Then when they finally made it to the car, Serena felt again at a loss when she wasn't able to sit beside him. He rode in the backseat while she and Molly rode in the front. Oh, she knew she could have ridden in back with him, but it seemed silly to her. So, she just tried to brush it off.
Reaching Molly's house, Serena said her goodbyes to her friend before getting into Darien's black BMW.
Sitting beside him on the way back to his house, she suddenly felt awkward. Not to mention insecure. For one, she had never seen him drive before, and another thing was that the whole confined space made it a bit unbearable. "I can assure you I drive very well." He said.
Snapping her attention away from the window, Serena looked at him to see him smirking. "Well, I wasn't afraid if that's what you assumed." She said grinning a bit, and turning her gaze back to the dark scenery that they passed. "Oh, I didn't think you were afraid. I just thought it amused you. A vampire driving a car. Shouldn't I be flying or something?" he said teasingly. Serena just laughed. "Yeah, really. Or shouldn't you be in the form of a bat." She replied.
"Oh, I think it's too much trouble to shape shift. After all, why would anyone want to fly in such weather?" he asked. Raising an eyebrow at him, Serena bit her bottom lip. "Darien....you can't shape shift can you?" she asked. He only smiled in reply. "Darien?" she asked. He chuckled. "Darien, are you messing with me?"
Taking a turn, Darien still didn't answer. "Darien!" Serena said poking him in the ribs. "Ah-ah, no assaulting the driver." he said while catching her hand in his own. Feeling the warmth of his skin on hers, suddenly made her shiver. Looking at Serena, Darien brought the hand to his lips and kissed it. "It's awfully distracting." He said.
Feeling a lump form in her throat, Serena suddenly felt out of breath. Averting his eyes back to the road, Darien still didn't let go of her hand, entwining his fingers with her own, he gently caressed her smooth flesh with his thumb. A lulling sensation that made Serena want to fall asleep.
Resting her head against the head rest, Serena smiled lazily. It was a wonder that she felt at so at ease, and decided just to go with it rather than fight it. Glancing at Darien with half hooded eyes, she saw him snicker, "And no, I cannot shape shift. That's only a myth, a fairytale designed to amuse children." He said.
Looking at her, Darien winked "You shouldn't believe everything you hear about my kind." He said. Serena flinched at the words 'my kind', feeling as if it was said to make her feet touch ground with reality again. He was a vampire, and she was a human. They were both similar, yet very different. "Not so different Serena." Darien said as he pulled up into his mansions circle drive. Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, Serena stared at him.
Putting the car in park and turning off the engine, Darien looked at her. "We do have a reflection, and yes the sun can kill us. And as for garlic necklaces and crosses, I find them to be perfect for ornamentation." He said getting out of the car.
About to grab her door handle, Serena was surprised to se Darien already opening the door for her. Extending a hand, he helped her out and they both walked into the mansion together.
Standing in the vast entryway, Serena chewed her bottom lip as she shrugged off her jacket. "What about coffins?" she suddenly asked turning around to see him. Standing with his hands placed behind his back, she tilted his head at her.
Clenching and unclenching her jacket in her hands, she wondered if she should have asked. But was a bit relieved when he chuckled. "Would you like to see?"
*
Following Darien to the east wing of his mansion, Serena felt a bit nervous. Where exactly was he leading her? "I sleep underground." He said. "In my basement." Blinking in surprise, Serena kind of laughed. "You sleep in a basement?" she asked. He stopped in his tracks, allowing Serena to join his at his side. "Does that surprise you?" he asked. Toying with her fingers, Serena shrugged, "No, not really. It's just that....I would think you would sleep somewhere a little more.." "Dignified?" He asked smirking. Serena just rolled her eyes. "Well maybe." She said. Darien only laughed and put an arm around her wait, leading her down the hallway which had only one door at the very end.
Suddenly becoming a bit frazzled at seeing the only door in the hallway being made of iron, Serena stopped and looked at Darien wearily, "so that's where we're going?" Serena asked. Darien nodded slowly while stroking her side gently, "Yes love, I have to keep my dwelling protected, so don't be to alarmed. I'd never lead you somewhere you would find disturbing." He said.
Sighing Serena shook her head. "I must be crazy." She said. Chuckling, Darien kissed her temple tenderly. "Not crazy, just to intrigued." He whispered in her ear. Smiling wryly, she let out a small laugh and continued on with Darien. Past the door and down the stairs they awaited on the other side.
Walking down them, Serena shivered as she felt the cold temperature in the room. Electrical sconces lined the wall to her left as she walked down the spiral hall staircase. "This is almost like out of a movie." Serena said to herself. "Hmm, I had never thought of it that way." Darien said hugging her tighter to his side. Happy that the narrowness of the stairwell was still capable of allowing them to still walk side by side.
Gasping as she finally came to the bottom of the stairwell, Serena covered her mouth with her hand. "Oh my God." She said. The room was large, capable of accommodating two soft looking couches and a rather large canopy bed. A lot like the one that was in Darien's room. Accept this particular one looked much older. The walls of the room were looked like they were made of cement, and then painted a deep burgundy red. Like clotted blood. Shivering, Serena rubbed her arms. "It's cold in here Darien, how can you sleep like this? It's unbearable." She said. Feeling his hands rub her forearms, she looked back at him. "The cold helps me from feeling the suns rays." He said, his head right next to hers.
Looking back at the room, Serena noticed again what she had in the first place. There was no coffin. "No, no coffin love. I sleep in a bed, just as you do." He said while grinning.
Walking away from him, Serena passed the two couches to reach the bed. "Hmm, I guess you don't." she said laughing and looking at the finely carved cherry wood post. Touching one of the marks, a sudden flash of something had her quickly withdrawing her hand.
It was a brief moment, but it was still there. Rubbing her fingertips with her thumb, Serena looked at her hand in curiosity. 'What was that?' she thought. Looking up at the wood again, she frowned. It was something familiar. Raising and eyebrow, Serena took a deep breath, then touched the wood again, wrapping her hand around the post.
Suddenly, Serena was no long looking at just the bed post. But another scene entirely. Two people immersed in love making were in front of her. The woman's hands wrapped in a death grip around the post, a mere five inches up from where Serena's hand was placed.
Golden hair covered both her and the dark haired man, and also shrouded her face as her head was turned down to the crook if his neck, and his was the turned into hers. Slow moans were emitted from the woman as she rocked desperately on her lovers lap, growing louder and louder while his hands massaged and gripped her thighs.
Then suddenly, Grasping the backs of her bent knees that were sprawled to either side of him, the man pulled her in closer to him, meshing their bodies tightly together as his arms wrapped around her. Moaning loudly, The woman suddenly picked up her head, and threw it back to shout at the ceiling. Her back arched in his embrace, and the man was then suckling gently on the woman's breast. Moaning again, the woman looked down at him, and Serena gasped.
That woman had her face. That woman, was her. Feeling a heat then, Serena was no long standing there holding the post, but now in the woman's position. Staring down at her lover, Serena moaned loudly again, drawing his attention up to her. Staring into his eyes, Serena then saw Darien. His eyes still that same stormy blue, and his hair tousled from their savage acts.
Gasping, Serena let go of the post, and stumbled backwards, her back colliding with the solid wall. Panting, Serena felt beads of sweat lingering on her skin. Fingers flexing on the wall behind her, Serena stared at the floor beneath her feet, too afraid to look anywhere else. Her body was responding to the image, and her mind reeled with fresh memories of her and Darien locked in intimate embraces. Of her gripping the headboard, and clinging helplessly to sheets.
Taking a shaky breath, Serena finally look up to the bed. It was the exact same bed her and Darien had shared so many decades ago. That same frame and carve of the wood. Yes it was their bed. Looking to her left, she saw Darien standing there calmly, his eyes displaying the same lust she saw while straddling him.
Walking to over to stand in front of her trembling body, Darien didn't touch her in any way, but merely lingered instead. Allowing his eyes to roam over her face and body, he let out a breath, feeling heated desire surge through his body. "Serena..." he practically growled.
Breathing audibly, Serena didn't move as he hovered hardly half a foot in front of her. Leaning his forehead against hers, he placed both his hands against the wall beside her waist. "Do you doubt anything now?" he asked her, his breath hot against her face. Staring at his mouth, Serena shook her head slightly.
Grinning devilishly, Darien pressed his body into her soft yielding one, hearing a gasp of surprise escape her lips as he did so. Leaning her head back against the wall, Serena looked into his eyes, realizing he had her pinned. But she was too enticed by it to let her rationalizing mind take hold of her senses.
Then suddenly, Serena gasped as his hips grinded into hers and she felt his arousal pressed against her. Taking a breath, her eyes went wide. Darien only smiled at her surprise, knowing full well she had never been in such a situation. "No doubts then?" he asked again. Shaking her head, Serena licked her lips. "Good." Was all he said before he closed the distance between there mouths. Kissing her passionately against the wall, Darien wrapped his arms around her waist, surprised that Serena was kissing him back just as powerfully as he was.
Breaking the kiss suddenly, Darien looked down at her, trying to catch his breath. Whimpering t the loss of contact, Serena stared up at him in surprise. Looking around her, the room seemed to have taken on another form. The walls weren't bare anymore, but elaborately decorated. And sconces with candles littered them as well. Then, feeling an odd weight on her head, Serena glanced down to see blond hair flow past her shoulders to mid thigh. Looking at Darien again, Serena took a deep breath. "What's happened?" she asked him breathlessly. Darien caressed her back with his hands, "It's an illusion Serena. The mind sees what it wants to see." He said huskily to her.
Serena licked her lips again, twining her arms around his neck then, "And this is what I want to see?" she asked him, bringing his head closer to hers. Darien sighed. "I don't know Serena, is it?" he asked her, implying the question that was already tugging at Serenas heart.
Sighing in the same fashion as Darien, Serena then grinned, leaning her forehead against his. Pressing her body against his, She laughed a small laugh, "This is what I want to see." She said, closing her eyes and kissing him lightly on his lips.
Bringing her mouth away from his, Serena opened her eyes again, "Are you sure Serena?" he asked in a serious tone. Smiling, Serena nodded her head. "Yes Darien, I'm sure." Hearing those words come from her was like pouring gasoline on a fire, and soon enough Darien was kissing her again. Pressing her up against the wall, and caressing her back through her clothing.
Moans escaping the back of her throat, Serena clenched and unclenched Darien's clothes in her hands. Groaning at her wanting need, Darien suddenly moved his hands from her back, and moved them down to grasp her bottom. Then in one swift motion, picked her up, pinning her between the wall and him.
Making a small sound of surprise, Serena instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist feeling his arousal press into her so intimately that she gasped. Breaking the kiss, Darien panted while looking up at her. "Serena" he growled.
Stepping away from the wall, he carried her in his hands to the bed, where he gently deposited her. Looking down at her, knees bent and legs open, her cheeks flushed and her lips swollen from his kisses, made him groan.
Lying down between her legs, he gently deposited his weight, feeling her hands come up to grasp his shoulders. "Darien.." She whispered softly as he kissed her again, except this time slowly and sweetly. Pushing his coat off of his shoulders, she felt him shrug off his coat and then work on the buttons of his shirt while still holding their kiss.
Opening her eyes as he broke their kiss again, she looked at his shirtless form. He was amazing. Looking as if he were chiseled out of marble like a Greek statue. Smiling down into her appreciative gaze, he slowly began to undress her. Her shoes, her pants, her blouse, until she lay there before him naked and blushing.
Grabbing the blanket off the bed to cover herself, he suddenly stopped her. "Don't." he whispered leaning down to her. "You're beautiful." Feeling her whole body blush, Serena smiled in reply as she then felt Darien's lips on her collar bone.
Moaning as he kissed and nibbled on her neck, she could only do so more as each touch and caress heightened her pleasure. His hands doing wicked things to her, as his mouth traveled about her breast and roamed over her neck. Sweet kisses that made her swoon, and shift on the bed. And even with the feeling of this whole new experience, it was like she had done it a thousand times before.
Shouting to the ceiling and arching her back as hand flexed between her legs and over her most sensitive area, she grasped his wrists, her hips bucking with the intensity of the wicked flood of pleasure that moved through her being. Eyes wide in shock at the new feeling, she gasped, and ever so slowly, came down back to earth. Panting and heaving.
Looking down at Darien, she blushed as she saw the grin lingering on his face. Moving off her, Darien fully undressed himself and turned down the bed, watching Serena as she avoided looking at his naked form. Smiling at her innocence, he crawled into bed beside her, wrapping his arms around her and cradling her head in the crook of his neck. Closing her eyes, Serena took a deep breath, taking in his scent. A scent so pure to her, it was almost like a drug. Hearing him growl, Serena giggled a bit, nuzzling him gently. When she became so brave, she never knew, but her giggling stopped just as quickly as it had begun as Darien rolled over, positioning himself above her. Taking in shallow breaths, Serena picked her head up, and placed a gentle kiss on his lips while wrapping her legs around his lean hips.
"Darien?" she asked him. His breathing labored with self restraint, he answered, "Yes?" he asked her. Smiling, Serena nuzzled his face. "Take me." She whispered to him. Groaning, Darien felt her legs wrap tighter around him and he clenched his teeth as he suddenly entered her. Sucking in air, Serena arched off the bed. The pain of it ripping through her, causing her to scream. Mouth gaping open, Serena slowly felt the pain ease though as Darien clasped her hands in his, and began to move in a rhythm that she picked up easily. So familiar, so welcomed, Serena could on flail in the pleasures that rocked her back and fourth.
Moaning, gasping, clawing, Serena finally felt her own release, as well as Darien's. Calling out his name, Serena's back arched once again, and slowly, once again, reality set in around her. Looking about the room, she saw it was the same one she had enter before. Breathless and spent, She felt Darien move off of her, to rest by her side. Wrapping her up in an embrace that made her shiver. Her head pillowed on his chest, she sighed her eye lids feeling heavy as her the latenes of the hour finally caught up with her "Darien..." she finally said after a while of basking in his embrace. "yes love?" he asked in his husky voice. "I love you." She said.
Tilting his head to look down at her, se watched she she snuggled closer to him and soon fell asleep in his arms. Smoothing down her hair, he grinned, "I love you too, my Serenity..."
******************************************************************* OK, ok, it has taken me a while to get this chapter out. Believe I know. But hey, it's long though, so that has to make up for something ehh? After all, this is the longest chapter I've ever written! Anywhoo though ^.^, I hope you enjoyed. I'm working on the next one right now. Can't promise when it'll be out, but reviews just might help me get it out faster...^.^. Anyway, that's it for me. Ciao for now!-Twigs