A/N: Sorry this took so long, I kind of took a break from writing this story… my apologies, and without further ado, here, I present (finally) the much needed… "next" chapter….

Chapter 3

Rose's POV:

Two years ago. My first ball, two years ago. It funny how nervous I was now that I think about it. It was two years ago, that I also met the most handsome yet mysterious man of my life. It was a shock to me, when it was I he chose to dance with, but even more of shock, that he had me leave. Then, I was met with the same embarrassment a year later. I would not stand for that again this year. This Hallows Eve Ball would end differently. I would resist those luscious eyes… those deep, dark… I snapped back into a reality as the music ended and people applauded. After a few moments another piece began.

I had begged Mike to let me attend alone. I told him I had to take care of a little problem, and would have much appreciated if he just stayed away from the ball. He was worried of course. Especially after the ball, where he was left to watch Vladislaus Dragulia, take me as a… a… plaything, a toy to entertain his wishes for that brief time. It still bothered me, as I looked around hopefully towards the large oak doors. It was nearly midnight. I was going to continue this treacherous game, and end it my way.

I adjusted my black satin gloves. They were a perfect set with my blood red dress. Mike had it designed for me. I though it shameful to wear it on an occasion where he was not present, but I decided to anyways. Plus, I couldn't wait to wear it anyways. I smiled to myself as I thought of the wonderful workmanship. The dress was a little low cut, and tight, but it gently flowed as it reached my hips. The wonderful satin gown fell perfectly. The black lace on the top in such and intricate, but beautiful design.

As I adjusted my black mask the great doors swung open. I caught my breath and prepared myself as the Count made his entrance. In ceremony the crowd waited in silence, until his signal for the ball to begin again. He made his motion and eyed the crowd. He eyes feel upon me and I froze. Trying very hard to remember my plan, using the memories of shame a hurt as motives. But as he approached, my plan began to seem less important.

Dracula's POV:

I had waited another year for her. As my eyes laid upon hers, I drank in her developed beauty. Her dress made her most desirable. I traced a few of her thoughts, anxiety rushing through her. I made my way towards her. As the music began, I thought I'd make a different approach to her this year. For this time, I would be taking her as my own.

Rose's POV:

Ok. He was coming this way. I held my breath, but before he ever reached me he turned another direction. What was he playing at? Or was that just it? Another game? I was not intending to get involved in a game. Or… or has he forgotten all about little Rosalinda Black? I tried to follow him with my eyes, but decided to find a way to a pillar. I leaned against it, forgetting of any ladylike manners and thought to myself.

Maybe he has forgotten all about me. Maybe the retaliating plan wasn't worth it, if he has forgotten, then maybe I shouldn't wish for revenge.

No, look for him. Play his little game on him.

But what's the point, what if I present myself to him, and he doesn't even take serious notice of me? That would just be embarrassing myself.

No, look for him.

My mind argued back and forth with this conflict. But I decided, I should at least find where he is, then maybe see if I can catch his eye. If he intends to dance with me… let the seduction begin.

Dracula's POV:

I made my way through the crowd, pausing to greet decent people here and there. But always having my mind on Rose. From what I could tell, she made no attempt to follow me at first. After about 15 minutes I noticed her emerge from her little hiding spot near the pillar and search the room. A quick smile pulled at the corners of my mouth as I walked across her gaze to get her attention, and continued away from her. Let's see how long she would follow, and how far was she willing to go to catch me?

Rose's POV:

There. I saw him just a second ago. I headed towards where I saw him. Following the direction he went with my eyes, I pursued him. I wasn't going to give up just yet. I bit my red lips as I looked over the heads of many and saw him. I quickened my step. I was getting closer. I could see him just ahead of me. He was in arms reach of me, when he unexpectedly turned on his heel. I ran right into his chest, he caught my elbows and I regained my balance.

What a fool I thought of myself, but then he then took another turn in events and pulled me into a dance. No, I told myself I wouldn't fall into those eyes, into his gaze, I would not be made a fool. Not again… my thoughts lingered as I began to lose myself. I blinked a little I had to regain control of my thoughts….

Dracula's POV:

It seems she is resisting me. Well, trying. A poor attempt, but I admire her strength. But how can any woman resist me. Now, as this dance will end, I shall test her. The music was beginning to reach its end. But before I could leave her, I had to give her a reasonable motive. I brought her closer, my hand slid up her back. I could feel her shudder. I smiled slyly as I gently gave her kisses along her neck up owards her ear. Where I whispered

"How far are you willing to go?"

Rose's POV:

Willing? How far was I willing to go? I thought to myself. His words snapped me out of the trance he put me in. But as he finished his sentence he let go of me and briskly began to walk away.

No. Damnit, I let my guard down. I stared angrily towards where her was heading. No way he was going to get away. This time, I'm going to let him have it. I got to build up my courage.

I set off at a walking pace and I saw his figure moving swiftly through the amount of people. I lifter my gown a little of the floor and quickened my step. Then, he disappeared behind a door. A door I would not have noticed had he not gone through it. I furrowed my fore head and taking a deep breath I continued. I was quickly getting tired of this game of his.

I set off towards the door. When I reached it I looked over my shoulder to check if anyone would notice myself disappear behind a hardly noticeable door, I slid through it. It was very dark. It seemed like a hallway, dimly lit by a few torches down the way. I slowly closed the door behind me. I bit my lower lip… what a waste. I turned to leave, but there he stood with a grim smile on his face, blocking the door.

"Ah, my Rose, what a pleasant encounter."