Sports

by WinndSinger

Bella has been shipped off to an all girls school because she's been a very bad girl. Edward is her very dark gym teacher. Why is he so cruel to her ? Very dark and mature storyline here.

26. Chapter 26

Chapter 26 - Sickness

Bella's POV :

For my detentions, Mr. Cullen had me outside with him doing archery. I loved it.

He smiled at me and said, "I think we found your sport, Miss Swan."

It felt amazing to have him this proud of me.

I was pretty good for a beginner and I knew to get better I needed a lot more teaching and practice. I wanted to practice, I wanted to get great at this. It just felt so right every time I held the bow and arrow.

Mr. Cullen couldn't believe I never shot an arrow before this. He thought for sure I had done archery before in my last school. But no. We never played archery.

He was so filled with knowledge about everything and this was no different. He began to teach me more things, as always, tips, ways to improve my stance, my aim, etc.

When we were done, he asked me to walk with him in the woods for a minute. He looked concerned about something and right away I began to panic. Oh no. Is he not going to be my Master anymore ? Did I get too close to him at the dance ? What did I do ?

"Don't panic.", he read my mind right away, "You're not in trouble. I just need to ask you something."

I relaxed then and took a breath, saying, "Alright."

When we got out there, he sat down on the grass, leaning back against a rock. He patted his leg, inviting me to sit down there. I smiled and sat down between his legs, facing away from him as he curled his arm around me, taking my hand, kissing it.

I was glad he wasn't being weird about last night. I had a great time, both at the dance AND later, wherever he had taken me.

"Are you alright ?", he asked me first, "Did I go too far last night ?"

Oh my God. He IS worried about that.

I couldn't see his face but I could hear his tone. He was worried about me.

I snuggled against his chest and shook my head, saying, "No. I had a great time. I told you, I love to be scared."

He gave a huff and said, "Scared is one thing. I terrorized you."

"I loved it.", I said one more time, "I never felt so alive."

He breathed out a second then went silent for a moment.

"Alright.", he said, sounding a bit strange, "Umm…let me ask you something, Bella."

Aww. Bella. I would never get used to him calling me that.

I intertwined my fingers with his and played my other finger along his knuckles, waiting.

"Go ahead.", I urged him quietly.

He swallowed and said, "I would like to ask your permission…soon…to…taste your blood."

It was asked so solemnly and with such reverence, almost like a marriage proposal would sound.

He wants to ask MY PERMISSION ? Who is this ?

"This is not a master, slave thing.", he seemed to read my thoughts again, "This is your life. You should consider it before you answer. Take some time to think about it."

I didn't need any time. I'd known for awhile now that someday he would taste and drink my blood. I was ready for that right now.

I turned to face him and he looked down, as if ashamed he had asked me.

I held his face in my hands and made him look at me.

"I want you to.", I said firmly, meaning it, "I trust you. You can have my body…my blood…my everything. It's already yours, you know that."

His voice was very hushed as he answered.

"I didn't want to order you.", he said, his eyes so vulnerable right now, "I wanted to ask. I hate that I have to."

He is not acting like himself at all today. It scared me a little.

"Hey.", I stopped him, smiling, "I know you're a vampire. It's okay. I know how much my blood drives you crazy. I want you to drink it. Maybe…it will help with the thirst you have whenever we're together. I don't want to put you through any pain."

He closed his eyes, letting my words sink in. I hated the sad and terrified way he looked. I want my smug Master back.

I tried to make him know how alright I was with this.

"When should we do it ?", I asked, moving a lock of hair behind my ear, going back to playing with his long fingers.

"You decide.", he said, surprising me again. I heard him swallow noisily.

I had no idea. I didn't care when.

"Tomorrow ?", I asked him.

"Too soon.", he gave a little chuckle.

"Umm…", I tried again, "A week ?"

He waited and a long pause followed. I waited for him to answer.

"Yes.", he said, then took a breath as if he just made a deal with the devil.

"Next Friday.", he decided, "After curfew. I will come for you. Shower before I get there. No perfume. No underwear or socks. Wear a robe. And bring day clothes with you for after."

This was normal. Some nights he would give me specific instructions like this.

I was looking at his glasslike fingernails and I said, "Yes, Master." I didn't say it like a brat. I said it like a very respectful slave.

He inhaled and I felt his nose up next to my hair.

"You're not afraid ?", he finally spoke again, his arms both curling around me like wings now.

"No.", I simply said, "And like I said…if something happens…then I don't want you to feel guilty about it. I told you...I'm alright either way."

He made another stunned sound and asked, "You're okay with it if I kill you ?"

I turned to him and he looked at me like I was crazy.

"You could kill me any time, any moment that we're together.", I said honestly, "I knew this going in. If my life ends in your arms, I couldn't think of a better place to die. If that's my fate then so be it. The only reason I'm still breathing now is because you saved me. You're the one thing I'm living FOR. I should be dead already after falling off that rooftop. Every second I've had since then is thanks to you. I told you this was my last year. But now, since you came into my life, I have a reason to stay. If you left me or something, I wouldn't have much reason to stick around."

"Fuck.", he said, then added, "You need Dr. Carlisle. Like…now."

I frowned. Those few words were so painful to me, I'd RATHER be stabbed.

"Are you saying I'm insane ?", I asked, afraid he was going to say it. Everyone else in my life had.

He shook his head and breathed, looking up a bit, then looked at me and said, "No, Bella. That's not what I'm saying. I would never say that. I get how you feel. I feel that too. But you're 17. You have your whole life to look forward to. And I'm a brick wall standing between you and it. And then you thank me for it…excuse me for it."

I was about to argue when he put a finger to my lips.

"Wait.", he winced for a second then went on, "I know you don't like this world. I don't either. I get you wanting to escape it. I've wanted that for more than half my life. But I'm not this saint you make me out to be. I'm…I'm an evil creature, Bella. I've done things…things I couldn't even tell you about. Things that would make you hate me. Things I'll never tell you because I'm selfish. I WANT the look you're giving me right now. I want to pretend that I'm the good guy. But I'm not. If you die at my hands, Bella…you won't be the first. And you'll have died simply because I was too fucking greedy to stop swallowing your blood. That's not romantic or poetic. It's tragic. And…"

He stopped, not wanting to say what he was about to say.

"What ?", I asked.

He paused then looked right at me.

"I know that a week after you died," he took a breath, "That I'd go on like it never happened. I would feed on the other girls and make myself forget. So that's the prince charming you're putting your life on the line for. So you better think twice about this."

I didn't believe that for a second…he was trying to change my mind about this, make me say no to him. As if I COULD.

"I killed that girl.", I stated, "And I didn't even feel bad about it after. I still think to this day that she deserved it. That's what feels so bad to me. I don't feel guilty or sorry for her. I feel bad about what it did to my father and now he hates me but…even now, it brought me here…to you. And last night, when you had that knife…I thought I might be triggered or feel something about what I did to that girl. I used a knife on her. But it didn't. I felt aroused and excited and badass. My mind keeps telling me to put that shit aside and move on. And I do. That's what's wrong with me. But it's what we have to do. And that's what you'll have to do if something goes wrong. Just please don't make it look like I killed myself, alright ? And don't just hide my body so no one ever finds me. My father will look for me forever. Make it look like an accident. Just for my father. He's a prick but my mother and I have done enough to him, you know ?"

He didn't say anything for a long time.

He kissed my hand and nodded without words.

"I know you won't MEAN to hurt me.", I let him know that, "Maybe, as a vampire, you can't love, but I know you care."

"I do.", he said right away without shame.

"That's all I want.", I looked into his face again, making sure he knew that, "That's everything. I love you, Edward Cullen. Always. Even if you kill me. So I forbid you to feel any guilt or crap if things go south. You got that ?"

I took a life. So I owe a life. If it happens, it happens.

He just put his head down against mine, closing his eyes, his arms holding me closer.

"I will NOT kill you, Bella Swan.", he said now with cement determination, "I swear to you. I know my oath is not worth much but I still swear it. You don't have to be afraid. I promise."

I kissed him and he returned the kiss with ferocious energy.

When we broke apart, he said, "You will shackle me before I bite you…", he informed, "I have silver shackles that are for vampires. It will hold me. And I will set up your phone on the timer. If it gets to 30 seconds and I haven't stopped, then you will hit a remote I'll set up for you. It will send shockwaves into me so I'll stop. I should also be in a cage of some kind."

I looked at him like he was crazy now. He's been thinking about all this for a long time. And isn't 30 seconds more than enough time for him to kill me if he loses control of himself ?

"That's not necessary.", I began but he cut in.

"If not, then we aren't doing this.", he said, certain now, "This is how it has to be. In case I lose control."

"Alright.", I shivered, thinking of him being shocked, "It won't kill you, right ?"

He smiled slightly.

"No, it'll just really hurt me.", he informed, "But no permanent damage will be done. It'll just cause me to let you go with my teeth. Then you get away from me. I will have a way for you to get out. I think that could work."

"Then how will you get out ?", I asked, worried about him.

"I can compel someone to come and release me.", he said calmly, "Once I calm down."

"Oh.", I thought that made perfect sense, "Okay."

"I will take care of everything.", he vowed, kissing my hand again.

"Where will we do it ?", I asked him, curious.

"Mmm", he thought about it, "How about where it all began ? The old hospital."

I smiled, liking that.

"Yes.", I agreed.

"You will get to cage me and shackle me.", he grinned, "That must make you very happy."

"Oooh.", I just realized what that meant, "Can I play with you a little first ?"

He smiled more.

"Will you be cruel to me ?", he teased, wanting to know.

I told the truth.

"Never.", I said flatly.

"Oh.", he looked almost disappointed.

"You WANT me to ?", I almost laughed.

He drew his lips up a bit, thinking about it.

"Maybe.", he hinted, a little glint of naughty in his eyes.

I shook my head at him.

"You are so full of surprises, aren't you ?", I asked, loving the thought of doing slightly cruel things to my Master. I never thought he'd be into ME taking control.

He just looked at me that way…oh damn.

"Maybe I'll sell you to that guy in France.", I said as he laughed.

"But I don't WANNA go to France.", he mocked my girl voice again.

"I hate you.", I smiled, play struggling to escape his arms. But he didn't let go, he just chuckled.

He leaned in and kissed me, not believing my words for a second. In the first two seconds, he had my body on fire…I could never hate him. Even if I wanted to.

"Asshole vampires aren't in big demand.", he began to explain after the kiss ended, "You probably wouldn't even get five bucks for my ass."

"I guess I'm stuck with you then.", I grinned as he kissed me again, touching my hair.

"Yep.", he said a minute later.

"What WILL I do with you ?", I raised a brow, doing my best Master impression, "So many options."

"Will you whip me ?", he smiled bigger, showing teeth now. This was turning me on.

I pushed him down on his back and he went without fighting it. I let my hair fall down all around his face as I caressed his perfect triangular nose with mine.

"Most definitely.", I informed, "Revenge."

He laughed.

"Or maybe I'll just speak Spanish to you.", I threatened, "And I'll be naked and not let you touch me."

"Oooh.", he gave a little pout, "Evil. See, you're getting it."

"Or I'll play volleyball alone against the wall while you watch my naked ass doing it wrong.", I further threatened.

"Oh fuck.", his brow furrowed, "That's just pure sadism now."

"Can I gag you ?", I asked.

"No.", he said, "I don't want your hands near my teeth."

"Oh yea.", I thought about that.

"Can I give you little shocks ?", I asked next.

"You are getting TOO into this.", he shook his head, but it seemed like he was entertained by my ideas.

The rest of the day and night seemed normal after that. Master was back to normal and didn't look so tortured as he did before. I wasn't scared at all. I just hoped that he would like my blood as much as the smell of it. I worried that maybe he wouldn't. Would he still want me if he didn't ? I almost asked but I was afraid of his answer.

All I could think of was what I would do with him once he was shackled up. Definitely force him to lick and suck my pussy. I began to practice what I would say…getting into my Dominatrix role, I looked up some things on the internet. Damn. Some of these women are goddamn BRUTAL to their male subs. I could never do that to him.

Hmm…some of it was hot. Making my lick my heels, suck them…I liked that. Make him suck my toes, kiss them. That's cool. He was always after my toes.

I decided I'd be a mostly kind Dom. If I was a little mean and he liked that, fine. But for the most part, I'll be sweet to him. Maybe he'll remember that when he's in control of me next.

Oooh. I'll make him call me Mistress. That's hot.

I had some more fun ideas and I made some notes with abbreviations only I would understand.

Strange…I wasn't even worried about what could happen to me. I even tried to make myself worry about it, imagining his teeth ripping my flesh from my bones…like a zombie movie. I shivered but I still wasn't afraid. I really do trust him. And now that he has some kind of idea on how to protect me, I'm sure it will be fine.

The next day I was still not worried but just in case I wrote a letter to Jasper. He was my best friend in the world, outside of Master, and the writer in me wanted some last words to say about it all before I left this place. I kept it short, acting like I was just writing to say hi, not mentioning anyone or any danger I could be in. If I did die, it would appear to be an accident, something I had no idea was coming. I considered writing to my father but I just couldn't. I still have a lot of anger towards him, even hate, and I didn't want that coming out in any letter I would write to him.

I mailed it before I had time to think about it and went on with my week. All the girls were still buzzing about the time they had at the dance and I was glad that my story was just for Master and I. I smiled, thinking about it over and over again…seeing his face so happy and young. And the way he looked at me when I came down the stairs…damn. How could I ever fear that he would hurt me intentionally ?

Dr. Carlisle had been asking me about Charlie again during the week and I made up a lot of bullshit about him. I told him that Charlie and I had talked and things were better between us. He looked at me, concerned, as if he didn't believe me. Is he talking to Charlie behind my back ? Part of me wanted to ask him some things about life and death but I didn't want to do anything to blow Master's cover. And I would never discuss anything about us with him. And I certainly didn't want Dr. Carlisle to think that I was suicidal or anything. I'd end up in the psych ward again.

The detentions with Mr. Cullen were routine, archery practice. I loved to watch him shoot the arrow, his beautiful eye looking as he bowstring drew up beside his cheek and ear. And the way he approved of me as I shot was fantastic. We didn't talk about the day approaching. We just enjoyed each other, as usual, acting like it wasn't coming up.

I opened my eyes, feeling weak and dizzy, even a little hot, like I had a fever. Trying to move my arm, I could not lift it. I felt leather around my wrists…and elbows…and upper arms. I gave a little whimper and looked down at myself. I was laid on my back, but leaned backwards a bit. On some kind of leather table. My arms were down beside my waist, padlocked. My body was naked, my toes an inch away from the floor. I was bound with black leather straps…everywhere. There was a strap above my breasts, one underneath my breasts, around my waist…around my upper thighs, around my knees, around my ankles…and one around my neck, keeping my head tilted back a bit.

I felt so groggy and exhausted. I just wanted to sleep. I didn't see Master anywhere. I didn't even have the strength to call out to him. I wanted to test my bonds but I didn't, I knew they'd be nice and tight and inescapable.

A few seconds later, just as my eyes had closed, I could hear a beeping sound. An alarm ? I lazily peeked, just opening my eyes a slit as I saw a hand reach up and hit my phone on the table across from me. The fingers were white and familiar. He hit the orange snooze button and lifted himself off the floor under my feet.

I went to speak to him but it wasn't until then that I realized I had a ball gag in my mouth, tightly buckled in place. And it wasn't until I saw his nose trailing up from my ankle to my leg…to my thigh….and then to my breast…that I could see the trail of little lines, cuts, bites that covered me from head to toe.

Also there was a thin clear tube coming out of my vagina and it went somewhere down and behind me. Is that how I piss ? How long have I been here like this ?

I felt like I had been here for days and I just wanted sleep…but every nine minutes that alarm went off and that brought Master back to me for another taste. As if that's all we were both living for now…and I was just going to be tied here forever as he kept waiting for my blood to replenish…and drink a little more…then wait…then drink some more.

His mouth covered my left nipple and he groaned very thickly, and I felt a sharp little pain there as I let out a loud whimper, as if to beg 'please no more'. He ignored me and opened his mouth, letting me go. With sick fascination, he watched a long line of crimson blood run down over the slope of my breast…and slowly travel downwards towards my ribs.

He exuded a heavy breath, as if he were watching his heroin move or dance right in front of his face. I tried to look down at him but he wasn't watching my face. He was a slave to that red line…and then his tongue took one long stroke up the escaping liquid, trapping it and sucking violently on my nipple again.

"NO !", I shouted, jumping up. Tank was staring at me, nose to nose with me. He seemed concerned. My poor baby. He never gets any sleep with me in my bed. I realized I was alright. It was a dream. I looked and saw no bite marks, no cuts.

I shuddered and tried to go back to sleep.

Friday was a nervous day for me. I was so worried that Master wouldn't like my blood and what that would mean for us. It wasn't dying that concerned me, but rejection.

I decided to concentrate on my role before the blood tasting. My dominatrix game. I knew I wouldn't get to play this part that often. Master had lots of female costumes and high heels for any game we wanted. He told me he would bring my attire for the evening.

He had no idea what I was planning, in terms of my speech and scenario. I thought it was a pretty good one. I hoped he would like it.

When the school day was finally over, I had dinner with Alice. I so wanted to tell her what was going on and that I really had come to love her as my best friend. I wanted to thank her for everything, for being the one person here who was kind to me, as far as the students went. But all I did was talk to her about every day things and pick at my food. She saw something was wrong with me but when she asked and I said I was fine, she didn't push it past that point. I gave her a hug and left the cafeteria, going to my room and waiting. Little Tank was there and I fed him, played with him, and hugged and kissed him. I told him how much I loved him and always would. I told Master earlier in the week to make sure someone took good care of Tank if I didn't make it. He told me he would personally care for him to his last day if necessary. I loved that.

"Take a little nap, babykins.", I kissed his tiny head and put him in his playpen with his monkey toy, his favorite, "Mommy will be back soon."

I took my shower, followed my instructions and sat on my bed in my fluffy black robe, my bare feet on the wooden floor as I waited for him.

This time, he did not grab me from behind or play the attacker. He approached as subtle as a breeze and when I smelled his scent, he was there, sitting behind me, his legs on either side of me.

"Hey beautiful.", he said, kissing my neck, moving the hair, smelling to see if I obeyed his directions.

"Hey, Evil.", I joked as he gave a little snicker.

"Are you sure ?", he asked.

"Yes.", I said with no hesitation.

"I thought of more precautions.", he informed me, "Now hopefully we won't have to do all this every time. This is just for the first few times…until I know how strong I am."

"Alright.", I agreed, whatever he wanted.

"Are you ready ?", he asked gently.

"Yes, Master.", I smiled at him, touching his hair, "I want you to taste me."

He gave me that aroused smile…and he lifted me up into his arms, bridal style…and I put my arms around him and closed my eyes as he ran us to the old hospital.

When we arrived, I felt his lips on mine…and I moved my hand down his neck as he clutched my hair in his hands. Ever since I colored it, he just couldn't keep his hands off it now.

I looked around and we were in the large, open room where I hung up above from a cage that night. Where I had sung to him the first time.

"Remember this place ?", he asked, candles lit around the corners of the room.

I saw a very large cage in the center of the room, two sets of silver shackles inside it, and wires arranged around a few of the bars…some going inside it.

"Of course.", I said, a little offended that he thought I'd forget.

"Alright.", he went into teacher mode now, "Listen very carefully."

He went to the cage and I followed him.

"These wires on the bars hold an electrical charge that will go off if you hit this green remote control. Only hit this if you are away from the cage and I am out of control."

"Alright.", I said.

"This red remote you will hold while I'm tasting your blood.", he gave it to me, "Hit it if 30 seconds go by and I haven't stopped. This is the timer. It will beep when 30 seconds goes by."

"Okay.", I nodded.

"This is just to be safe in case.", he was moving his hands up and down my arms, "You are NOT to open this cage under any circumstances. No matter what I say or do."

A few seconds went by and he changed the subject.

"So…", he played with the belt of my robe, "What are you planning to do to me tonight ?"

"Oh, you'll see.", I touched both sides of his face, "Where's my wardrobe ?"

"In there.", he pointed to the next room, light coming out of it, "I'll take care of myself in here."

"Okay.", I kissed him, "I'll be right back, slave."

"Mmm", he sounded as if he liked that.

When I came back in the room, I was wearing a very nice black corset, black bra, and black thigh high stockings. No shoes for now.

He was there, in the cage. It was padlocked and the key was on the table a few feet away from it. He wore no shirt, only the black jeans, no shoes…he was on his knees inside the cage, his arms behind him, shackled. His ankles also shackled underneath him.

I was holding a nice big flogger that I took off his little tool wall. He looked at me with a very sexy grin as I took my flogger and dragged it along the bars as I came to him.

"Wipe that grin off your face.", I said coldly.

And he did turn his face more serious. Wow it worked !

"And why are you looking at me ?", I asked quietly, "Did I give you permission to look at me, slave ?"

He looked down and shook his head.

"That's right.", I said, my tone the same, "Now let me tell you how it's gonna be. You're my little toy now. I know you think you're a badass vampire but that's all over now. Your strength is all gone…no more hunting, no more freedom. All you live for now is to please me. And if you're very, very good…perhaps I'll feed you from time to time, bring you a little girl to feed upon. You got that, slave ?"

"Yes.", he said very softly. His face looked slightly amused at my words. I almost laughed too. This wasn't really ME and we both knew it.

"You are to answer 'Yes Mistress' when you speak to me.", I said calmly.

"Yes, Mistress.", he corrected himself.

This is harder than he makes it look. I already feel sorry for him.

"You've done some very bad things.", I said as I strolled along his cage, "Today you start paying for it. And you'll do it gladly. No attitude, no fighting. Isn't that right, slave ?"

"Yes, Mistress.", his voice was so goddamn soft it made me tremble. I like THIS part of it.

"What's your name, slave ?", I asked him.

"Edward.", he said, still looking down.

"Wrong.", I sneered, slamming the flogger against the bars as he jumped inside it, "You're mine now. I decide what I call you. Hmmm…let me see…what's a good name for you ?"

"Look at me.", I put the flogger into the cage and under his chin, raising it. His eyes were red and when they looked at me I almost hurt at the sadness looking back at me. He's playing, right ?

I thought of calling him a number, a lot higher than 317 but decided something else.

"I know.", I looked him over, "You look like an…Ariel."

He raised a brow and I slammed the flogger into the bars again.

"You don't like your new name, Ariel ?", I raised my voice a bit.

"I like it, Mistress.", he said flatly.

"You're a bad liar, Ariel.", I said the name with more emphasis now, "Take your pants down."

He looked at me for a second, and clanged his cuffs behind him, reminding me.

"Jesus.", I scoffed, "You're fucking useless. Crawl over here, slut."

He started to try and get over to the bars of the cage and it was a bit of a struggle for him to do it, shackled up. It was comforting to see he had to struggle a bit for once.

"Hurry up!", I shouted, "It's not my problem that you're shackled, it's yours. Move it when I call you. You're gonna be shackled every single minute for the rest of your life so get used to it."

He got to the bars and I said, "Press your cock into the bars, come on.", I put the flogger on top of the cage and I reached in, unbuttoning the jeans, muttering, "Who the fuck said you could have jeans on anyway ? You're to be naked from now on, you don't deserve clothes. Clothes are for PEOPLE not you."

I unzipped his pants and pulled them down to his knees. Oh my God.

"Thank me, Ariel.", I demanded.

"Thank you, Mistress.", he stayed pressed against the bars, his face down against them.

"Turn around and put your ass out so I can teach you some manners.", I ordered.

He turned, trying to move in his chains and do what he was told.

"So slow.", I gave him a taste of his own medicine, "I thought you were a vampire, what the fuck ?"

He didn't say anything but his cute ass was there, a bar between his cheeks. I never whipped anyone before but I'm sure he wouldn't be hurt by any lash I would make.

I tried to do it the way he did, holding the strands….then letting go and whipping on the ass cheek not the spine. He gave a little jump as each blow hit and he made a little sound as if it was hurting him. I loved him for that. He was just doing that for my benefit.

"You made a face when I gave you a beautiful name.", I took a hard swat at his gorgeous ass, "You have no appreciation, ARIEL. That's your name. And you love it."

"Yes Mistress.", he clenched his fists behind him.

"My little mermaid.", I ran my fingers over his ass, "Because most of the time, you're gonna be living in my nice tank of ice water. I'll just keep you in there underwater until I need you. How's that sound, Ariel ?"

"Great, Mistress.", he said, not sounding too thrilled.

"I don't believe you.", I swung the flogger again and hit his ass as he gave a grunt, then made a very deep breath as if aroused a bit.

I understood a bit now. The more you do this, the more mean you find yourself getting. I didn't like hitting him. It felt wrong.

"Turn around, Ariel.", I said, my tone more kind now.

He managed to turn around and put his face in between the bars, his eyes down.

"Look at me.", I said with a kind voice, my finger under his chin. Black eyes were looking at me with a tender gaze.

"Make your eyes red for Mistress.", I said playfully, my finger moving down his nose as the redness began to appear, moving in a circle around his irises.

"That gives me chills.", I said sweetly, "I love it, slave."

He smiled.

"I'm glad I please you, Mistress.", he said very submissively.

"You will.", I stated, "Do you like my breasts, slave ?"

I felt strange asking him that.

He smiled more.

"Very much, Mistress.", he answered as if he really meant it.

"Do you want to lick ?", I teased him, clutching my own right breast, putting it close to him but not that close.

"Yes, Mistress.", he dared to answer. I knew I should've scolded him for that. It's not about what he wants, he's here to please me. But he was so goddamn sexy I couldn't yell at him.

"Come.", I motioned with my finger, "Stick that tongue out."

He stuck that talented tongue out and reached for me…I backed away as he gave a little groan of displeasure.

"Come on…", I coaxed, "Reach for it, Ariel."

I could tell he hated being called that and that almost made me laugh.

Finally, I let him get my nipple and he moaned with satisfaction…licking furiously, sucking…moving along the side of the nipple…wanting more. I pulled away and he made another sound of frustration. He kept his tongue out, licking at the air…licking the bars….wanting me.

"You just want my blood, you little animal.", I accused, "But you have to earn every drop you get. I don't give anything away for free. Is that understood ?"

"Yes Mistress.", he gave a little growl of desire.

"So, if you're thirsty you better make me happy.", I informed, "Cause if you don't, you go hungry."

He swallowed and his chest pressed harder into the bars.

"I'll make you happy, Mistress…please…", he pleaded and I nearly dropped my flogger.

He licked his lips…looking at my naked breasts.

"Open your mouth, Ariel.", I said softly, stroking his cheek.

He opened it and I placed the flogger handle there.

"Hold that and don't drop it.", I told him, kissing the tip of his nose.

"I need to suck this gorgeous cock.", I knelt down and started to move it up and down as he moaned out loud, muffled through the flogger handle. It was a sexy fucking sound.

"This isn't YOUR cock anymore, slave.", I informed, "It's mine now. This is my plaything to use as I want."

"Ysss Msstrsss", he agreed.

"You're not hard for me ?", I asked sweetly and right away he was erect and thicker.

"That's my good boy.", I talked like he was a dog, "You're a good boy for Mistress, aren't you ?"

He nodded and muffled "Ysss Msttrrrssss", and his beautiful eyes closed peacefully.

"Do you want my lips around MY cock, Ariel ?", I asked him, pumping him harder as he closed his eyes and leaned his face against the bar.

He opened his eyes, staring at me and nodded quickly, replying, "YYSSS Msstrssss"

"I bet you do.", I teased, not moving to do it yet.

"Maybe I'll just keep doing this.", I said, "And then when you're about to come…I'll just stop."

He made a sad sound.

"Then I'll start doing it again…", I told him, "And then stop again…"

"UGGHHHH", he sounded as if he was suffering a little.

I stopped and stood up. His eyes watched me, not leaving me for a second.

I took the flogger out of his mouth and said, "You'll get pleasure when you've earned it, Ariel."

"You may please me first.", I said, putting my leg up and over his shoulder in the bars, holding onto the bars for support.

"Lick.", I ordered. He had to bend a bit but he got there and put his face under me, licking and sucking as his chains clicked.

I really couldn't act mad at him as he feverishly serviced me, not leaving any crevice unlicked or unpleased.

I started to scream as he found that spot…OH FUCK ! This is fucking hot !

His voice moaned as he sucked and took little nibbles, making me jerk and buck above his amazing mouth.

Before long, I was screaming "FUCK YES FUCCKKKK! HARDER ! OHHHH GODDDD !"

After I had come a couple times in a row, I was desperate to suck that lovely pink cock.

"That's your life now.", I told him, "That's your only purpose. Making Mistress come."

"Yes Mistress, thank you Mistress.", he said obediently, his breathing a bit heavy now.

I ravaged him and he was wincing but moaning and his teeth even bit around one of the bars as I yanked his cock so hard as I sucked and twisted and grabbed those balls. Then I would reach in the cage and get my fingernails in his ass cheeks. He loved that. He looked dizzy as his eyes half opened, watching me below. He roared out and did come inside my mouth and I swallowed him down.

"Get your fucking cock up here.", I demanded, turning my ass to the bars, "Fuck me, Ariel. Do a good job."

"Yes Mistress.", he said, "Thank you, Mistress."

He fucked me through the bars, his hands still chained behind him the whole time. He has great hip movement without being able to hold onto anything. I held the bars behind me at each side as he thrust in over and over again, making me weak as my ass kept slapping against the bars and him.

I panted and made very pleased sounds as he grunted, going as hard as he could without hurting me.

"What a good fucking dog.", I moaned, "Yea fuck me…harder. Don't you fucking stop until I tell you."

He growled in lust, going harder, I guess, liking my words, his face laying against the bars as I howled and bucked again.

"Don't come.", I told him as I fucked him, "You don't come until I say so. Think of something else. Think of how bad I'll hurt you if you come before I say. I can come…over and over…but you CAN'T. You're a bad boy."

He moaned harder as I said that to him. He liked that a lot. Wow.

"Do you want to come ?", I asked him later.

"Yes Mistress, please…let me come please…", he breathed.

"No.", I denied him, "But I'm gonna come again…you keep fucking me but don't come Ariel."

When my legs were too weak to stand anymore, and after I finally allowed him release, I slowly turned to him and just held him around the bars, letting his face lay on my breasts. He breathed jaggedly, resting there. Funny…I don't remember us ever doing this…him just laying on me like this. I loved it. I took my time holding him and moving my hands through his messy sexy hair. I moved my hands over his shoulders and back…chest…it felt nice to have free hands to touch him any way I wanted.

"Come here, slave.", I brought his chin up and I kissed him. He returned the kiss with passion, moving up as high as he could to reach me, opening his mouth and licking my tongue.

I smiled at him and he smiled up at me.

I dropped the act and said, 'It's hard being the Mistress."

"But you're so good at it.", he complimented, nuzzling his nose against my neck.

"I love you, Master.", I said with absolute certainty.

I was sure I WASN'T very good at dominating, the whole Ariel thing…seemed dumb now to me. I suspected this little game was just to keep my mind off what was coming next…to distract me…or maybe…this was his gift to me…letting me do this…in case I didn't live to see the morning.

His eyes looked at me with a soft sadness there. He said nothing but his face affectionately rested against my breast. He was so sweet. I would die a million, billion times to just have this moment…this man…like this.

"I don't deserve it.", he mumbled, almost to himself. But I heard him.

A moment later, he looked up at me, swallowing again and it looked as if it pained him.

"Are you ready ?", he asked me gently, reading me.

I nodded. I was sure now that we had been intimate his body was ready to taste blood. And maybe he had me play dominant mistress so it would seem that I was the stronger of us…and in control…and that he couldn't really harm me. It was a theory.

"Are you sure ?", he asked again.

"I'm sure.", I said without fear.

"Wait, Swan…", he looked at me and corrected, "Bella…I want to say something. When I met you, I thought you were the most spineless thing I'd ever seen. A little mouse.", he said, his eyes not leaving mine, "I thought you were pitiful and weak. "

"Thanks.", I frowned, mocking gratitude.

"God, was I wrong. Just look at you NOW.", he stated with emotion in his voice.

His eyes were admiring me, as if I was something marvelous and brave. I wish I really was.

"Was that an insult or a compliment ?", I teased, trying to keep things light.

Somehow, it felt like he was kind of saying goodbye to me, just in case.

Then a strange look came over his face. I couldn't read it or figure it out.

He swallowed once again and said, "Take those round stickers, there, with the wires on them…stick them to my chest, at the heart. Put those black gloves on behind you. They'll keep you from getting shocked if you have to hit the button."

I did as he said, he talked me through every step. He made me hold the remote, and I did, knowing I wouldn't use it.

He licked his lips briefly, looking at me as I came back to the cage bars.

"Wait.", I bent down and pulled his jeans back up, carefully zipping them and buttoning.

He smirked at me. "Thanks."

"You're welcome.", I replied.

He looked at me with a serious face.

"Come here.", he said, "Put your arm in."

I put my arm in and before he did anything, he looked up at me and said, "I'm going to avoid any place with a lot of arteries and veins. The upper arm is a good place for that."

"Okay.", I agreed.

"When I bite, it won't hurt much. My venom will numb things a bit. I don't have to bite hard to break skin. If I could compel you, I'd make it painless but…your mind is closed to me."

"I can take it.", I said, "I used to cut myself all the time, remember ?"

"I remember.", he grinned.

"Alright.", I said, ready.

He looked up at me and swallowed again, as if a bit nervous.

"I will be gentle.", he vowed.

"That'll be a first.", I smirked at him.

He smirked back. I was relieved to see my Master again.

"Bitch.", he teased.

I put my other arm around him, touching his back, lightly moving my fingernails up and down his skin and I closed my eyes, peacefully, not clenched. I held my arm out in front of his face and waited.

Hectate…watch over us. Give Master the strength he needs. Please don't let him be hurt.

A few tense seconds passed and then he took a long breath. He slowly licked the area on my upper arm…testing out where he wanted to bite. He closed his lips and sucked the flesh, almost like he was sucking my clit. He let out a very satisfied growl and kissed the wet skin there.

I played with his hair with my other hand, letting him know I was alright and that he could proceed.

A very gradual pressure was the feeling I got…not sharp fangs or a huge bite…it was a very subtle thing…he was very good at this, too, and I wasn't surprised.

"MMMMM", his voice moaned out loud, grunting slightly as he latched his mouth around the incision he'd made. I clutched his hair and leaned against the bars, my chin on his hair as he swallowed, licked and swallowed again.

"I love you…Edward.", I decided to use his name just for now, "I love you so much…"

I glanced at the little thing next to the cage that was counting off the 30 seconds.

It was on 14, 15, 16….

"UUGGGHHHH", his voice was clearly enjoying as he took a small breath, licked the spot and dove back in for more. His voice had a very lusty sound to it…it did sound like he was almost orgasming.

"Oh my fucking Godddd….", he managed to moan as he licked and closed his lips around my skin again.

It sounds like he's loving it. I hope he is. I began to feel a little woozy but I knew he wasn't draining me. I looked at the timer….22….23…24…

"Ohh, please….", he said, laying his face on my arm then sucking the cut again.

His voice sounded so fragile just then…I almost got scared….

"Five seconds.", I whispered very softly as my fingers played with his hair…he gave a very agonized whimper as he swallowed and sucked again.

28…29…30… the timer began to beep and he made another very pained sound. He wasn't stopping.

32…33…34…

"Nooo…", his voice sounded so dreamy and childlike, as if he was being called to come inside from the playground.

Oh my God, he's not stopping. I can't hit the remote, it'll hurt him.

"Baby, stop.", I said sweetly, grabbing his hair as he bit down a bit harder, this time it did pinch.

"OW!", I cried out, not daring to move…"Master, stop."

I almost cried, not wanting to hurt him….I could only see his perfect nose against my arm…and I could hear small sucking noises.

"MASTER !", I screamed it so loud this time that he opened his red eyes and saw me and yanked himself away, not hurting me as he went. He seemed to be more alert now…awake. I felt so relieved at that.

He laid there, on his side, panting and with his eyes closed, he moaned and twisted his wrists in his shackles, looking as if he were about to have an orgasm, but a much more powerful one than sex could bring. It was a vision to behold.

"Oh God…", he moaned, "FUCK fuck fuck !"

He let out a very guttural cry….it sounded as if he was VERY satisfied in there. I loved watching him.

I went to the table. There were first aid things there. Bandages, band aids, sanitizer, etc.

I took one of the extra large rectangular shaped band aids and began to open it as he laid there, a huge smile on his face when I came back, sticking the band aid on. The wound was not what I thought, like teeth marks…it was just a thin line…like a cut.

I smiled at him in there and said, "You sounded like you enjoyed that, pet."

"Fuck, yes.", he looked giddy and dreamy in there. I knew just how he felt. That's how he always makes me feel.

He laid his head on the floor as if he was exhausted, his eyes closed and limbs stretched out behind him in their chains.

"I don't hear any thank you Mistress.", I played.

He smiled and breathed, "Thank you, Mistress. Oh my God….a billion times thank you…."

I laughed, about to ask what I should do next. Free him now ? Wait a while ?

But then suddenly, his face was beginning to change. It became firm then troubled…then in seconds, his eyes turned pure white and he was screaming in agony !

I screamed too as I watched his body arch up and tense…his legs jerking and kicking helplessly in the chains. His arms joined in, pounding themselves against the bottom of the cage as he made the most disturbing sounds I ever heard. It sounded as if he were on fire.

"Oh my GOD !", I screamed, "EDWARD !"

I went to unlock the cage but his white eyes saw me and shouted, "NO! DON'T COME IN HERE! DON'T OPEN IT !"

"What's happening ?!", I screamed, hating this as he bucked and slammed against the cage floor, a new wave of pain hitting him now as he hollered from the depths of his soul. A deep roar followed that and he laid on his stomach now, face down, panting and suffering as I had never seen anyone suffer before.

I covered my mouth and wept, hating this…every second seemed like a fucking lifetime of Hell.

"What can I do ?!", I screamed as he sounded like he might throw up….his insides were convulsing and he was heaving up nothing.

"LEAVE - NOW!", he looked at me again, his eyes still bright white.

"I won't leave you !", I yelled back at him.

Then he started to sob and whimper…this was worse than the fucking screaming. His fists were clenched behind him and his toes were clutched together too. It looked terrible, what he was going through…my blood…did this to him. Was it killing him ? What the fuck ?!

I don't know how long it lasted but to me it seemed years went by. Finally, he began to quiet and calm…his body stopping their fight against the chains. He laid there, panting, coughing…almost weezing.

"Oh my God.", I cried, on my hands and knees beside the bars, "Master…are you alright ?"

Duh. Does he LOOK alright ?

And when he turned over, looking exhausted, his face was sweating. His chest was sweating. He was shaking everywhere….as if freezing. His eyes were white and they were heavy and unaware.

I sobbed, the tears pouring out of me as I thought I was watching him die. What am I supposed to do ? He didn't say he could get sick like this ! He was so worried about ME…we never bothered to worry about HIM.

He tried to swallow a few times…as if he was dying of thirst. As if his throat was closed somehow. He didn't seem to know who I was at the moment…then his eyes began to roll back into his head. He was convulsing again, harder.

"Oh my God !", I cried and went to get the key. I unlocked it and went to him, touching his face.

"Baby…", I cried as I tapped his cheek, trying to get him to open his eyes. He jerked in my arms, not opening them. Then he went still. And his breathing stopped.

I knew I broke the rules by opening the cage and coming in. If he really wanted to drink more of my blood, he could do it now. But I really didn't think that's what he was doing here. His eyes had been WHITE!

"Master…", I was freaking out because he was so still, like a statue, "Master, come on, wake up."

Nothing.

I laid him flat on his back on the cage floor and put my hands one over the other over his heart area. I had no idea what I was doing but I had to do something. I pushed up and down on his chest as hard as I could, crying. Then I pinched his nose and opened his mouth, putting mine over his and blowing air inside. Five breaths in a row ? What the fuck am I DOING ?

He said not to get this close to his teeth. I ignored that and kept going.

"Master…", I said louder, "Open your eyes, please. Come on !"

I began trying to punch his chest, right over the heart, hoping he'd yell or scream…something. It was like punching a marble statue. This just laying there was scaring the shit out of me. I have no idea what the FUCK I'm doing here !

I clutched his chest and violently massaged the flesh, hoping it would awaken the heart or hurt him or make him DO SOMETHING.

I was thinking of every medical show I'd ever seen and I thought of the nurse with the electric paddles, shocking the patient so they'd respond.

"Oh.", I remembered the remote thing.

Without thinking about it, I crawled out of the cage and got it off the floor. It was the red one, okay.

I stood back away from the cage and I looked at him, laying there, still shackled, his mouth open.

"I'm sorry, baby.", I whimpered and hit the button with my thumb, wincing as I watched him.

"AAAAAAARRRRRHHHHHHHHHH!", he arched back and his chest spasmed and even smoked a little !

Thank God was all I could think.

He started screaming again, after the shock was over. I crawled into the cage again, leaving the remote on the floor behind me. I held him tight, putting his head in my lap as he let out another gut wrenching bellow.

"Master…", I cried, "What's happening ? You looked like you just DIED."

"Get out of here now. That's an ORDER, 317.", he groaned under his breath, trying to restrain another scream, his eyes clenched. It looked like he was trying to hold still now that I was in the cage with him…and it was killing him to do it.

"Open your eyes, let me see them.", I lifted his upper lid and saw that his eyes were black again. The white was gone. That's good I guess.

"They were white !", I told him as he tried to roll the other way, away from me.

"Swan, I said get out !", he shouted at me this time, coughing very hard onto the floor. It sounded like liquid was coming out but when I looked, there was nothing.

"I'm not leaving you.", I said again, "Let me help you."

"You can't help me.", he laid there, trembling, letting out another agonized groan.

"Let's get you out of the shackles.", I suggested, about to go out there and get the keys to release him.

"NO!", he rolled over now, looking at me, "Close that door and lock it NOW!"

"But you're in pain.", I argued, tears blurring my vision.

"NOW Bella.", he shot me a very angry look, "I don't know what this is. Lock it and get out the way I showed you."

I did what he said, padlocking the cage door again as he seemed to relax a bit. His hair looked wet and it fell over his forehead as he panted, his mouth weakly open laying on the bottom of his cage.

"What can I do ?", I asked him, right outside the cage.

"Nothing.", he winced, making a high pitched sound of pain.

I couldn't stand this.

"Is there someone I can call ?", I tried, "Another vampire ? A friend of yours ? Someone who can help us !"

"There IS no one.", he said with a note of finality, "Just leave me here. It'll pass."

"Stop it you know I'm not going anywhere.", I stated, glad he was talking at least.

He rolled onto his stomach and laid his legs out flat. He growled and began to cough again. It sounded very congested and thick, like there was some slush in his throat. It sounded horrible.

I had no idea what to do but thank God he wasn't screaming right now. I went to get some water for him and I came over to the bars beside his face, stroking his hair, asking, "Do you want some water?"

He looked at me, worried, but then gave a weak nod and tried to lift his head, opening his mouth. I couldn't pour the water in that way from the cup so he winced, rolling over onto his back, opening his mouth again, as if he was dying of thirst.

I gently poured some in and he gobbled it up, breathing as if it were the most wonderful water ever…like he was dehydrated or something.

"More.", he pleaded, "Please…more…"

I really poured the rest in now, not afraid that he would choke on the water. He swallowed and breathed, and then groaned, "Oh God, it's starting again. No…"

I watched in horror as his body started to tense again and he started to writhe and scream. The sound of it was torture, worse than anything I'd ever endured before.

He began to bend in almost a fetal position and I grabbed my own hair, wanting so badly to do something for him. I felt like my own flesh was being ripped off slowly. It would've been better than THIS.

When he quieted again, I used the time to ask more questions to help him.

"Is there anything I can get you?', I asked, "Aren't there pain killers or something ? Morphine ?"

"That won't work on me.", he got the words out between groans. The pain looked unbelievable as he started taking short, quick breaths, his eyes squinting and staring up at the roof of the cage. His eyes looked lost and confused…

He was curling his stomach inward and shouted out again as if someone was reaching inside him and ripping his guts out.

"What about throwing up ?', I tried to figure out a cure, "Make yourself vomit. The blood will come out."

I almost offered to stick my fingers down his throat to induce vomiting but I knew he would never allow that now.

He looked at me like that was an idea worth trying. Without a word, he clenched his fists and his throat tightened, every vein and muscle showing now under the wet, white flesh…and then he gagged…and rolled over, making horrible vomiting sounds…but when I looked, nothing had come up. He gave a disappointed shudder and made a very weak sound. His veins began to show…a light blue color among the ivory skin there.

He sounded like he was trying to be strong but his voice cracked and he seemed like he wanted to cry.

His eyes were closed and he looked in so much anguish as he rolled limply to his other side, facing away from me now. Jerking and twitching, his legs bent as his ankles strained to be free of the shackles.

I couldn't think of anything else to do. I would rather have burned alive myself than to watch another second of this. I found myself fucking praying if you can believe that.

Please just let him stop hurting…please…that's what I prayed for. To any God or Goddess who would listen…I didn't care who answered. If Satan himself would stop this, I'd give him my soul.

He roared and screamed some more. I reached into the cage and put my hand over his cuffed one, holding it as he suffered.

"I'm here, Master.", I heard myself saying to him, "I'm here, you're not alone, baby."

Was it smart to have my hand in here, in case he thrashed out in pain ? I didn't care…I would not let him suffer through this alone.

He almost seemed to cry as I said that but then the screeching began. It sounded like he was being eaten from the inside out.

There seemed to be a small break in between the painful parts. And each time he became less and less coherent as I tried to talk to him. All I could do was sit there on the floor and be there with him as he endured this fucking terror. My blood did this to him. It was all my fault.

After the fifth bout of ear splitting screeches, I felt more tears fall out of both my eyes and I tried again.

"Master ?", I tried to touch his face through the bars, feeling his forehead. It was hot and sweaty. This isn't good.

He was mumbling something…I couldn't hear it.

I listened closer, asking him what he said.

"I'm sorry…", he whispered, "I'm sorry….I'm sorry…."

I frowned and kept my hand on his cheek, wiping it, saying, "Don't be sorry, you didn't do this. This is my fault."

"Please let me out…", he breathed, his eyes opening a bit, dazed, "I won't cry anymore, please…"

He wants to come out ? I began to go and get the keys on the table but then his voice whimpered one word.

"Mama…", he was shivering as I felt my mouth fall open, "I'm so cold…please let me out…"

Oh my God. He had never mentioned his family or even his human life before. I hated the way he sounded, so innocent and afraid, hurt.

I looked around and grabbed a fleece blanket that was on the mattress in the corner. I hurried and put it through the bars, making it spread and cover him as he shook harder.

"Here you go, sweetie.", I said, and he quivered underneath it.

"I'm with you.", I kept saying to him, hoping something in him could hear me and understand. He could be dying and all I'm doing is giving him a blanket and some water. I suck.

I kept thinking of what else I could do. We never went over this possibility beforehand.

There were hours of screaming and white hot pain for him….and then a tiny pause where he would just try to catch his breath and shiver and cough and almost vomit.

Something inside me was trying to use logic here. If he got bad blood, maybe it just had to run its course and get out of his system, then he'd be alright. Like a human eating bad food.

Yea…or if a human drank poison, he could die in ten minutes. FUCK !

He had stopped talking directly to ME, Bella. His words were about his pain, begging for it to stop…and faint murmurs to the ghosts in his past…his mother…then he was chanting the name Esme, with such love in his voice I would've felt jealous if he wasn't in such agony….I couldn't make out the rest…but it was all him begging for forgiveness…in so many different ways.

It was late into the night now but I didn't care about that. I was surely missed during check in at the Ivy House but I would face whatever happened. There was no way I was leaving him. For anything. I only took a moment or two to get myself out of the dominatrix outfit and put on my normal clothes. But I was only a step away from the cage the whole time I was dressing.

At 2 am he opened his eyes and looked at me, looking scared, looking all around him. I sat up and watched him closely, a lump in my heart.

"Who are you ?", he whispered, shaking like a leaf, "Where am I ? What are you doing to me ?"

He didn't sound angry…only afraid. I hated that.

I explained it all but he didn't seem to believe me. Then, as he became more and more upset, he fainted…being taken back into a coma state again.

"NO !", I screeched out, thinking he died. But a moment later, he started pleading again, to someone in his mind. As long as he kept talking, he was alive. That's all I knew. I clung to that.

Then at about 4 in the morning he seemed to recognize me again.

His eyes blinked wetly and they were black as he focused on me there beside him.

"Bella…", he croaked, his eyes squinting at me, his voice very gravelly and small.

"Master.", I smiled in relief, clutching onto his shoulder, a tear falling out of my right eye, "I'm here."

"Why are you still here ?", he managed to get the words out. It seemed every syllable caused him pain.

"I love you, that's why.", I snapped back.

"I don't want you to see me like this.", he looked even more pained now, like an angel that had a broken wing and couldn't fly anymore.

"Too bad.", I answered, "Tell me what I can do. Is it getting worse ?"

He gave a little nod, his jaw tensing as his foot gave a small kick.

"What IS this ?", I had to know, "What's happening to you ?"

"I don't know.", he tried to breathe, "It hurts. It hurts real bad."

He MUST be in pain that's poor grammar. He never speaks that way. It made me even more afraid that he didn't try to sugarcoat this for my sake.

He began to do the short little gusts of breath again…and this usually meant it was starting again.

NO! I wanted to yell at my blood to stop it, to leave him the fuck alone. I hated it for what it was doing to him. And there was nothing I could do about it. But watch.

"There must be something I can do.", I said to him.

His eyes blinked as if he was trying to hold it off.

"No.", he said, accepting it, "I just have to endure it."

"No.", I said as if he had any control over this, "Is it killing you ?"

"I don't know.", he said again, taking a pause as he curled up, digging his face into his knees...then he said, "Death would be better than this shit."

I cried and said, "I'm so sorry."

"Don't cry, Bella, " he took a very rattled breath, "You didn't do this."

"It's MY blood !", I pointed out.

"This is nothing.", he tried to look at me, and gave a very thin smile, "I go through this every day…right after your volleyball class."

He was making a joke ? That's a good sign, isn't it ?

I nearly laughed as he smiled a little more…then instantly the pain grabbed hold of him again and his eyes went wide and he clenched his fists cuffed behind him, howling into the air again while I cried and clutched at my hair.

"Noooo", I heard myself wailing as I watched this again.

The next break he had wasn't for another hour. The throes of agony were getting longer and the breaks shorter. I hated that.

At about 6 am I couldn't take it anymore. Master's face was looking gray in color and there were dark circles under his eyes. His lips looked dry and cracked. His hair was soaking wet and looked darker, laying back away from his face. Shaking like a leaf, he was covered in sweat but freezing cold under the blanket as I got my phone and called Alice.

He would hate this and I might get punished for it, but screw that. I had to try something.

She picked up, sounding sleepy.

"Bella ?", she asked.

"Yea, Alice it's me.", I hurried, "I need your help now."

"What's wrong ?", she asked, suddenly more awake.

"Mr. Cullen is sick.", I stated, "Very, very sick."

A silent pause.

"Hello ?", I called.

"Uh…", she hesitated, "What do you mean, sick ?"

Suddenly he came to life in his cage, slamming his face into the bars as another stab of pain forced his body into unnatural positions. His voice raged in his yells as he breathed too fast, waiting for more about to come.

"Oh my God.", she said, hearing that, "What's wrong with him ?"

"I don't know.", I heard myself crying, my voice cracking, "I'm here alone with him, he's been doing this all night. I don't know what to do."

She didn't say anything but I could hear her breathing. It sounded…afraid.

"Alice ?", I asked, "Are you there ? You alright ?"

"I'm here.", she sounded conflicted.

"Can you come?", I asked her, "Do you know where the old hospital is ?"

Her voice was very strange.

"Yes, I know where that is.", she said with a little bitterness.

It sounded as if she HAD been here before…with him…and didn't enjoy it at all.

"I-I-I…can't Bella. Please don't ask me.", her voice was softer now, as if she were torn.

"What ?", I hesitated, "What's wrong ?"

She sounded panicky, "I don't know how to help him…I have no idea."

SHIT !

"Alice.", I didn't know what to say, "Alice…I know…I understand but he's really in pain…he could be dying. Please don't leave me here alone in this. Can you PLEASE come ?!"

I hated how weak and desperate I sounded…but I was. I needed someone…anyone. I was losing my mind. Just at that moment, a demented thought rose up inside me…if Alice comes here…he could feed on her…maybe…that will help him…

I realized how evil I was at that moment. I would give Alice up, as much as I loved her, to save my Master. I would let him feed upon her. Worse, I would hold her against the bars if I had to.

I hate myself. I AM demented and bad. Charlie was right. I AM a murderer. In my heart.

A long pause went between us. Did she sense that I wanted to use her to cure him ? It wasn't my original intention when I called…but now…I was trying to lure her in, possibly, to her own death.

Then she said, "Bella…I know how you feel but…you should leave there. Go home. Let him be."

My eyes squinted. And suddenly I hated Alice. I felt a rage growing inside me, in the blackest corner of my heart.

"How can you say that ?", I asked her, "He's—"

Alice took a deep breath and said what she had to say, consequences be damned.

"He is evil, Bella.", Alice's voice said plainly, "If he is sick and dying… that's a good thing."

It hit me right in the gut like a knife. An unexpected knife. A knife my best friend was holding.

I couldn't think of anything to say in response. I was shocked. But finally she spoke the words I was afraid to hear.

"I'm sorry Bella.", Alice said, "I would do anything for you. You're my best friend. But I won't help him get better. I can't. You don't know…"

"Alright, alright.", I said, cutting her off, "Is there anyone else ? Another one of the girls I could call ? Someone ?"

The Fagan bitch flashed in my mind…all the bitches in my gym class. The silent ones who were so afraid to step a toe out of line. I would give them all up in a SECOND.

"Bella, I can't –I WON'T ask another girl to go there and you shouldn't help him, either.", she added, "Just please, believe me…get out of there. Let it…happen. Please. For all of us."

"Is there another girl I can call ?", I repeated, not wanting to hear this.

She huffed.

"No, there isn't.", she said honestly, "You could call all of them and I'll bet their answers would be a lot worse than mine. We only come because we HAVE to, not because we want to."

"Alice…", I was getting really upset now, not wanting to face this right now.

"Bella.", she said, "If you want to put him out of his misery…set him on fire. I know that would do it. I don't know any other ways to-"

"I'm not setting him on FIRE !", I shouted at her, all the pain of the last few hours coming out like an explosion, "I am taking care of him and he's going to be FINE! And when he IS FINE again, I'm going to tell him that you refused to help him. Enjoy your funeral, bitch !"

I hung up on her and felt sick that I had said that. That was my inner bitch, the one who killed that girl…the one who would hurt anyone who would dare to fuck with me...us. I would never really do that to Alice…but I was pissed off. I was horrified. And I felt more alone than before.

Master made another small noise, as if in his sleep and I forgot Alice and went back to tend to him.

I brought more water to the cage and my hands shivered as I stroked the hair back away from his damp forehead.

"Here baby.", I brought the bottle to his mouth again, carefully, "Take some more water."

Without opening his eyes or saying a word, he opened his lips and began to swallow the water as I slowly poured it in, in small doses.

"They're all burning…", his voice was slurred and frail and his eyes didn't open…"They're dying…"

I cried just hearing his voice, the way it sounded now…the pain…it wasn't Edward's voice anymore…

"No one is dying. You're going to be fine.", I said to him, swearing it in front of all the gods. Hectate, come on, please help me. I'll give you anything. Where the FUCK are you ?!

"Please, hold on.", I whispered to him, then made my voice stronger and louder, "Edward. You can't leave me. I still suck at volleyball. And I don't know anything about basketball or hockey…or…any of the other sports…oh…baseball."

I wished he would laugh or smile. But there was no expression there on his face now…only pain and sickness.

I had put my legs into the cage and he was laying his head on them as I sang to him. His hands began to coil around my legs as if he needed me.

"I will never leave you.", I told him firmly as my fingers stroked his wet hair, "If you die, I will be right behind you. Just wait for me."

My eyes glanced at the dark line in the floor…the one the gasoline had made yesterday. Would I want to go out that way ? I didn't think so, burning alive. But I'd be here holding Master, if he died.

I remembered Master promising me he would make my death painless if I still wanted to die on my next birthday. Everything inside me wept.

Fuck, Master was right. I DO need Dr. Carlisle.

By 7 am, Edward's dogs had shown up and they cried, knowing something wasn't right with their Daddy.

They laid down outside the cage, looking sad and just stayed there, waiting. I guess that's what I was doing, too. This frightened me even more. It's like the dogs know he's dying. Rage, the girl, even laid her head right next to my leg, comforting me. Well…at least I wasn't alone anymore. Thanks guys.

When Master started to scream again, the dogs freaked out, barking and leaping to their feet. But they never got nasty with me, it's like they knew I was one of them, a pet of Daddy's. I didn't get rid of them or make them go outside. They belonged here, too.

I couldn't eat or sleep and school had started out there…I couldn't leave him and I wouldn't. Not until he could walk out of here on his own.

During a break in the horror, Master was sleeping, shivering, muttering to himself, things I could not hear.

I wanted to call Miss Fagan but I couldn't find her number. I kept trying, hoping there was someone I could have for an ally here. Someone to help, someone who maybe knew something I didn't. I finally found a number for a Fagan in the school directory and I called it. No answer. Then I tried to text it.

I texted: is very sick. Please call me.

A long time passed and no one responded to my text.

I considered Dr. Carlisle but then pictured Master's face. No I wouldn't do that, not unless I was really desperate, which I couldn't believe I wasn't already. It would be bad if Master killed Dr. Carlisle feeding from him. I kept having hope that he would get through it and be alright. Like a flu or a cold. Please God, let it be like that.

Around 3pm, I decided to take him out of the cage. He had been quiet for about an hour this time and that gave me some hope. He was breathing and looked very pained in his shackles. His fists, wrists and ankles kept jerking in their bonds, wanting to be free.

I decided he needed a soft place to lay down, to be free of his cuffs. If he kills me, he kills me. I don't give a fuck anymore.

"Okay.", I unlocked his right wrist from inside the cage, then the other.

"We're going to take you to bed.", I said softly to him as I unlocked his ankles and took the round stickers that held wire off his chest. They came off easily because he was so wet with perspiration…or venom, I wasn't sure which.

"Can you crawl ?", I rubbed his back as his eyes slightly opened, wondering who I was.

"Come on.", I coaxed him, shimmying out of the cage, taking his hand, "Come."

Without speaking, he began to weakly crawl after me and for a second I thought he was following me to drink my blood again. But he wasn't threatening at all. He just followed me out, maybe because I still smelled good to him, maybe because something in him knew me and trusted me…but he came.

"That's good.", I said as if he were a little boy, and I helped him as he tried to crawl once outside the cage. He seemed to need my support as he moved and that killed me. His arms and legs trembled visibly as he tried to move beside me.

I brought him away from the gasoline line on the floor and we finally made it to the sheeted mattress in the corner. He collapsed on it and drew his arms up around his chest, shaking as I smoothed a hand over his gray forehead.

"Hold on, baby", I said, going back to get the blanket.

I came back, putting it around him, tucking it in around his body. I draped myself around him, too, giving him my body heat. He let out a very grateful sound, snuggling into my body and sighing as his body began to relax a bit.

"That's it.", I kissed his forehead, liking it that I could really hold him now, "You hold onto me. You're getting better already. I've got you, Master."

The daylight began to fade as I wondered about getting him other blood to drink. If I could get my hands on some normal blood and he could drink that, maybe it would help. Maybe I could trick someone and get them over here. No that's horrible, I told myself. I wouldn't trick someone into a trap that could kill them for Master…would I ?

Yes – everything inside me answered without shame.

I didn't want to have to do that…I was hoping he would get better, get through it, like he'd said. But he wasn't. I had to consider it now. Seriously.

Maybe I could tell Alice that I decided to kill him and I needed her to help me.

God, I'm fucked up.

He hadn't screamed in over an hour. As it got dark, I didn't even bother to light candles or mess with any lights. I didn't want to take one step away from him. It seemed like every second could be his last.

I just laid there with him, singing and talking to him.

I was currently telling him the story of Rear Window, one of my favorites.

"And then, Grace Kelly waves her fingers…", I continued, "Showing Jeff that she has 's wedding ring on. And Mr. Thorwald SEES her do that. Then he slowly turns his head across the way, looking right into James Stewart's window !"

I began to look at Rage and Fury, wondering if they had some magical powers.

"Can you guys understand me ?", I asked Rage, the girl, "Do you know where to get Daddy some normal blood ?"

The dog just stared at me like I was nuts, her black and white ears pointing up then down.

"Sorry.", I said, "I've officially lost my mind."

Now I know the pain of being an old lady, watching the man she loves slowly perish. I remembered my grandmother's face when my Pop Pop died. Now I understand. But she got to have 45 years with him. I didn't even get ONE with my Master. What if he just stops moving and never does again ?

I closed my eyes and held him tighter, not allowing death to touch him without going through me first.

In my mind, I broke my own rule and began talking to God.

If there's anyone there…I thought…I don't know if you're real or some made up bullshit designed to keep people in place…but if there's someone out there…look I don't beg or ask anyone for anything but I'm asking now. Don't take this man away from me. Please. I know he's not perfect and he's done some terrible things…but so have I and so have a lot of people. He's got a beautiful side that I can see. He has good in him, I know he does. You can't kill him for having scars that you inflicted on him. It's not fair. Give him a chance. Please. I'll owe you my life. Just please…make him alright again. I love him so much. I can't live without him. Please.

And if there is no God…and if Satan is listening…if you take him, you are going to take me too. We live, die, and burn…together.

Next I wondered if one of the dogs' blood would help make him better. Would he kill me for hurting one of his dogs ? Probably. Could I do that to these sweet, beautiful dogs ? I wasn't sure.

I had my finger hovering over my phone screen, about to call Dr. Carlisle…he had given all the girls his direct number in case we needed him. My eyes staring at the little green circle with a white phone in the center. I would call him here…and Edward could have him. It's the only idea I had left.

In the dark, I felt Master's hands lift up from his chest and find my hand. He squeezed it and breathed, "Bella?"

OH MY GOD ! Hope sprang up inside of me and tears came back to my eyes again.

"Yea Master, I'm here.", I put the phone down and put my other hand over his, kissing it, "How do you feel ?"

"Not great.", he said a took a very long, sickly breath. It reminded me again of my Grandpa right before the end. It sounded painful for him to even exhale.

Well at least now I had a chance of asking him about my plan.

"I had an idea.", I told him, "Would some normal blood help you ?"

"Iiiii…", his voice was strange and rough, ddddon't…kknnowww...", he said, "Mmm…mayyybbeeee..."

"Where can I get some ?", I asked, in a hurry, before he couldn't speak at all, "Do you know ? Do YOU have a phone with contacts in it ? Can I call someone to come here and you can feed on them ? Or can you feed from one of the dogs ?"

He seemed to consider these things.

"Not my dogs.", he said without thinking twice about it. His voice was a bit stronger now as he defended his canines.

"Where's Tank ?", he asked…I think that was a joke he was trying to make.

I sobbed out loud, in relief or insanity, I'm not sure which… and he got back to business.

"Let me try.", he said, closing his eyes and just laying there. I wasn't sure what he was doing.

Finally, he opened his eyes and looked up at me.

"I don't know if it's working.", he looked slightly embarrassed, "My powers might be down right now."

He has no cell phone ? God, he IS just like my grandfather !

"I can call someone.", I said, "Do you have a phone ? I have my phone. There's a little battery left."

"No, don't.", he coughed a raspy scratchy cough.

"I don't have a phone. I never needed one. They won't come if you call.", he informed me, "And if they knew I was sick…they might come to finish me off. You could get hurt. If they do come…just get out of here. Don't get in the way."

He was whispering now…as if that's all he could manage.

I frowned.

"Really ?", I asked, not believing it. He really thinks I would do that ? Get out of their way and run

home ? Never. It would be a convenient way to die at his side, though. Fighting to the end.

He swallowed and said, "Let's just say that…I haven't taken the other girls to dances and…"

He winced and stiffened and I held him while it passed through his body again, not making him scream this time. This was worse than him having the screaming pain…now it was just weakening him…bringing him closer to his death, quietly. This was much worse than before.

"I don't care.", I said to him, "They could still come and CARE at least."

He tried to grin.

"I never cared about them.", he shivered in his voice, "They shouldn't care about me. There were many times when they suffered…because of me…and I didn't care or come over…I told you…I'm not a good guy. They come to me out of fear, not love. I know you don't believe it because I can't seem to make myself be cruel to you. You're special, Bella. I don't treat anyone else like I treat you. So…don't expect them all to come charging in to save me. They hate me. And I deserve that."

"I'm special.", I shook my head, "Yea, I'm the one who's killing you right now."

"You didn't kill me. I'm not dead yet.", he said, a bit of a fight left in him somewhere that warmed my blood.

"I'm fighting it as hard as I can.", he told me, "I'll keep fighting. But if anything happens, please make sure the dogs are taken care of."

"Stop that.", I kissed his lips briefly, "I'll take care of them, don't worry. But you'll be fine, you'll take care of them."

"If I die," he went on, "You are to leave here and go home. Don't worry about my body or anything, just leave it."

I prayed he didn't make me swear that I wouldn't hurt myself if he died…I could not promise that…not even to him.

"Shut up.", I almost covered his mouth, "Close your eyes and get some rest…no don't close your eyes. Keep them open, alright ? Talk to me. About something else."

"I'm sorry. I don't want these to be the last memories you have of me.", he sounded as if he might break down, his voice cracking.

"They're NOT.", I refused that concept, my voice stern as I stared down into his face, "They're NOT."

He sniffed, taking a moment to be quiet. I kissed his cheek, hoping he wasn't crying.

"At least I got to dance with you.", his voice was so frail and delicate, his lips trying to smile, his hand half way reaching up to my cheek, unable to make it all the way. I took his hand and put it there, holding it. He felt hot and brittle to the touch. Not marble and cold anymore.

I cried, saying, "That was my first date. My first dance. You were so amazing. You ARE so amazing. You're the ONLY one."

I repeated his words to me that one night…when I asked him not to be with any other girls.

His lips smiled and in seconds he was asleep. It's like my words eased him and he was able to close his eyes again…and he didn't speak again until about an hour later, his voice whispering, "Bella…"

"Yea, baby?", I was right there, ignoring my gurgling, empty stomach as he kept his eyes closed.

"Bella, please come back…", he almost wept, "I'm sorry…"

Oh no is he dreaming ?

"I'm here, Master.", I said clearly, hoping he'd hear me.

"Don't say that…", he was clearly upset in his dream, tossing and turning as I held him closer.

"I love you, Bella.", he breathed, "I love you so much…"

Tears came to my eyes as I kissed his cheek, again, wiping it. There was so much meaning in his words, he sounded like he meant that deep in his soul.

"I love you too, Edward.", I used his name, willing him to hear me, "I'll ALWAYS love you."

He nearly stopped breathing right then. I had to give him mouth to mouth again and then he laid there, barely breathing at all…just holding on by a thread.

That's when I was done fucking around. If I have to kill every girl in this fucking school, I will do it. I'm done waiting.

I had very little battery left in my phone. I would use the last of it now. I decided against calling Dr. Carlisle. He could overpower me and possibly hurt Edward. I had to call the girls instead. They were afraid of him and I had a chance of forcing them if I had to.

I got several numbers of some girls that went to this school and I took random shots, standing beside the bed where Master lay.

I didn't even know these girls but my odds were good. 316 other girls in this school belonged to him. If they only come out of fear, then I'll put fear into them and get them here. Consequences be fucked.

"Hello?", the first girl answered, surely not recognizing my number.

"Mr. Cullen wants you at the old hospital. NOW. If you don't come, you're dead."

Then I hung up, dialed another number, and did the same.

And again. And again. And again. My battery finally died. I prayed that this would work.

I looked out the broken wall out where I had been moving stones all day and waited. I flicked a light on and off as I saw something moving out there. Finally, they were close and I could see their faces. I put my humanity on hold and did what I had to do.

I went up to them. There were five of them there, looking around, scared. Good. A couple of them were older girls, seniors, I guessed, a couple looked younger than me.

"One at a time.", I even sounded like Mr. Cullen as I spoke, pointing at a girl who was smaller than me, "You. Come with me first. The rest of you wait out here until I come get you. Don't fucking leave."

I just grabbed the first girl and took her by the arm inside. She didn't fight me and she was very quiet. She kept looking around for him, shivering. She had long, curly brown hair, that's all the details I let myself take in. To care any more than that might have broken my resolve to do this.

"In here.", I pulled her a little too roughly but she came.

She stood there and when she saw Master on the mattress, dormant and asleep, trembling, she looked confused.

"Lay down on top of him.", I heard my own voice and didn't recognize it. I sounded so cold.

She nodded and went right down there, laying on him with her legs apart.

I grabbed her hair as Master had always grabbed mine and I said, "Stay there."

She shook and said, "Alright."

I tapped Master's face and called to him.

"Master…", I said more loudly than I had spoken to him all day, "Master…wake up…time to feed."

The girl made a little squealing sound, waiting.

"Don't fucking move.", I warned her, my voice gritty and deep.

"Put your neck to his mouth.", I held her hair and brought her to him as she moved towards him on her own too.

"Come on, Edward.", I called his name, hoping that would awaken him, "Open up."

If he doesn't wake up in a second I'm going to find a way to cut her and put the blood in his mouth myself, I was thinking as he blinked, his eyes slowly opening a little.

"Come on, Master.", I coaxed him as I held the girl's neck to his lips, "Feed."

He was too weak to even realize what was happening but eventually his mouth did start to move…he inhaled the scent of the girl I had on him and something inside him seemed to register it.

He looked at me and licked his lips, swallowing as he considered it…

"Go on.", I nodded to him.

Finally, his mouth opened and it softly touched the neck in front of him. The girl gave a little sound of fear as he moved his lips, opening and closing them…his tongue lightly licked the area. He didn't even lift his arms that's how exhausted and weak he was.

"That's right baby.", I kept holding her hair, not about to let her get away, "Go on."

She let out a tiny cry as his jaw moved and his teeth made their move. The veins in her neck tensed as he did so and she whimpered a little as he began to swallow and suck.

"Yes.", I watched him without a hint of jealously or fear as he drank…his elderly persona began to slowly fade away as each drop passed into him and in seconds, he was grunting and growling like the Master I knew. He sounded very sated as he swallowed again…and again…I had been counting in my head and 30 seconds had gone by.

If I had only one girl here I would let him have all her blood. But I had five so maybe they didn't have to die.

"Stop, Master.", I was able to pull her away from him and she wasn't hurt as I did it. He was not at full strength yet. Thank God or I'd never be able to pry her off him.

"Get up.", I said to the girl, putting her against the wall beside me, "Stay there. Hold this on your neck."

I gave her a square bandage from the table Master had set up for me.

"If you move from there, he'll kill you.", I threatened, "I'll kill you.", I added and was about to go get the next girl.

Master protested a bit with his voice only when he lost the neck in front of him. He panted and tried to reach out with weak arms to find where the girl had gone. His arms fell at his sides, as if he had used up all his energy just to do that. He gave a deep whimper from his shiny red lips, unable to say much else.

"Hold on, Master.", I said to him, "I have more."

I brought the next girl in and put her down on top of him. He gave a very sensual groan and this time he was on her neck before I could even say anything to him, as if her neck was air and he was suffocating.

This second girl was a bit tougher. Taller than me…a senior, I think. She didn't cry or fight. She let him do it to her and she was asking, "Aww…Master, are you sick ? Poor thing. It's okay…you drink…146 is here."

She even moved her own hair out of the way and cradled his head up to her neck ! Wow !

A little part of me almost got jealous but mostly I was liking her. She was pretty cute, too. Now that I took in details about her. Long, blonde hair, straightened, perfect. A kind looking face. And her voice had a bit of a southern drawl to it. 146. I'd have to get her name later.

This girl even closed her eyes and relaxed as he fed off her. She's alright. Definitely one of the more trained and obedient ones he once told me about. I knew he was full of it, though, about all his girls hating him.

"Okay, enough.", I said after 30 seconds and put her to the wall also. The girl seemed upset to be pulled off Master and I related to that.

"I like you. Stay.", I shared with her as I went out to get the next one.

The next one was more special. A gorgeous, young Asian girl with long black silk hair, younger than me. She asked me, "Is it okay if we both go together ?"

She pointed back and forth between her and another Asian girl beside her, with very similar features, the same hair.

I was confused until she said, "We're twins. We always visit…together."

Master you are a wicked, wicked little thing.

I smiled.

"Sure.", I allowed and they came with me to his bed. Again, they didn't have to be forced.

"What happened to him ?", one of the twins asked, sounding genuinely concerned about him.

I wondered if she thought I did this to him. Well, yes, I did, actually. Her question had a tinge of accusation in it. But I let that go.

"It's a long story.", I said, not having time for this, "Just get down there and let him feed off you for 30 seconds – each."

"Okay.", they didn't seem upset as they both got in the bed with him.

It was strange but I enjoyed watching Master open his eyes to find the twins there with him.

He smiled at them with affection and that made me feel so fucking good that he seemed pleased and better already, more like himself again. The little devil.

"Asia…", he called her by name, then looked at the other one, "Anika…" He seemed like he was meeting up with old friends. And his voice sounded more like his voice again. It was working.

"Hello, Master.", one of the girls smiled, "We've missed you…where you been ?"

He seemed stronger now, his hands taking the face of one of the girls and he sat up a bit, making a very aroused sound as he began to lick her skin. The other girl smiled down at him and was watching, smoothing her hand over his cheek as he drank from her sister.

Without me even telling him this time, Master stopped drinking from one twin one second early and gently turned to the other girl…smiling and disappearing as she leaned in to allow him access to her jugular next, her hair falling over his face like a curtain.

I found myself smiling, glad to see he wasn't the evil monster he claimed to be with all the other girls.

Weird…there was not a drop of jealousy in me…I was just ecstatic that he was getting better…he didn't seem to see me standing back here as he drank from them, as if he had forgotten I was there…or that he couldn't see me very well yet. I didn't mind. He was getting his medicine, finally.

When I had all five girls against the wall, I went to check on him.

I didn't want to get too close to him, as he might think I was the next girl to feed upon. If he fed off me again, accidentally, he could get sick all over again.

"Master?", I touched his forehead with the back of my hand, "How are you ? How do you feel ? Do you need more ?"

If we had to do this all night and tomorrow I would.

He opened his eyes and they were red, as before. I could see those golden symbols again…and I cried at the beauty of it. The gray flesh was white again, pure as the driven snow…his lips red and wet, full and perfect again. Even his eyelashes looked more ebony in their color…and long…so beautifully long, even at the lower eyelid. Everything inside me seized up tight…afraid to hope again.

In a flash, he leapt up into the air, did a double flip and landed on his feet like a cat, crouched low then straightened up, smirking, a tiger like purr coming off him, his fingers curling with renewed power as he looked into his palm, relaxing his fingers again.

In the light I could see now his crooked smile, his eyes dazzling and beautiful, his hair spiked up high and dark copper shining like silk…no sweat…no shaking….no more pain. And he was smiling at ME now.

"Thank you, God.", I breathed, leaping into his arms, "Are you alright ?"

He threw his arms around me, as if he was just as glad to be back in my embrace. He gave a genuine laugh, like the one he always did when I was being silly…and I almost fainted from the joy and relief that poured over me like a gushing waterfall. I was crying like a baby but I didn't care.

"I feel AMAZING.", he said, "How did…you…did this ?"

He was now aware of what had happened, probably reading the minds of the other girls, and that I had been here while he had been feeding on these five girls. I'm sure he could also see in their minds what he looked like when they came inside and stood over his body.

I was afraid he might get mad but I had to do what I had to do. I wasn't sorry.

I nodded and said, "Does it hurt anymore ? Do you need more blood ?"

"No, it doesn't hurt at all anymore. I'm fine now.", he seemed perfectly alright now and he glanced at the blanket, smiling at me, as if thanking me for that, and he rose to his feet, looking at the girls against the wall, then to me.

For a vampire, I guess it's different. He was fine now and behind him was the whole ordeal. The pain, the terror, the weakness. He seemed to be completely over it and free of everything. His smile held nothing in it but happiness and victory. It seemed almost erased in him, as if it never happened.

But I am human. It would not be the same for me. I was still wearing the scars all over me…and I was still bleeding.

I must've been going out of my mind again, saying, "You can feed on them again. I made them wait…"

I knew I was bawling and talking at the same time…and he looked at me as if he was afraid of me now. Realization seemed to be hitting him now…that I was not alright AT ALL.

"Bella, Bella…", he put both hands to my cheeks now, holding my face, "Shhhh…shhh….it's alright now…oh sweetie…sshhhh…I'm alright. Please don't cry. Calm down….calm…."

I tried to calm myself and quiet down…but I couldn't. Now that it seemed over I was even MORE hysterical…and I felt myself hyperventilating.

"I…", I sobbed, "I didn't know what else to do….I tried….to…"

"Oh my God.", he said, almost to himself, wanting to soothe me now, "317 ! Stop ! Breathe. Inhale…exhale…"

He was using his Master voice and I was glad…it snapped me out of my personal Hell and I found myself listening…and obeying…breathing…sobbing…he stroked my right cheek with the back of his hand, his other hand moving gently down my hair. His perfect cold thumb moved a falling tear away from my cheek.

"Slowly…", he looked into my eyes as if he were hurting too, "In…and out….that's it…good girl. Again…inhale…exhale. That's right. Relax. Everything is fine now. I'm alright. WE'RE…alright now."

He took his time to get me to a place where I could breathe again, normally. My love for him grew even more as he brought me back now.

Finally, he stopped and stared deeper into my face.

"Are you alright, Bella ?", he asked.

He's asking if I'M alright ?

I nodded, tears in my eyes, my voice squeaked, "I'm fine."

"I'm so sorry.", he said to me, holding me to him, "I never wanted to do that to you."

"Stop, it was my fault.", I touched his face, "I'm so glad you're okay. I was so scared."

He held me and kissed me and it was like everything in me was healed. I almost wanted to faint from the euphoria of it. It was over. He was healed. Thank you, Hectate. You were late…but you finally got there.

"I'm sorry, Bella.", he said again, sounding very sincere.

He looked at me, placing another small kiss upon my lips, certain that now I could breathe right.

And then he looked at the girls. They were all facing the wall still, afraid to turn without his permission. They were silent and didn't seem to be afraid.

"One moment, love.", he gently moved me behind him.

"Turn and face me, ladies.", he demanded, his tone pleasant but firm, clearly in control.

They all turned instantly, most of them seemed pleased that he looked much better now.

He smiled at them and said, "Ladies. I am in your debt. Thank you. I will not forget any of you for this. You may return home now. Those bites will be healed by morning, as usual."

I wanted to say thank you to them, too, but I felt like I would be intruding if I said something now.

Most of them seemed happy that he was so grateful about their sacrifice. They left quietly, as if class was just dismissed. Except for the first girl…who seemed to run out as fast as she could.

"She's new.", he commented as he watched her go.

Then he looked scared of my expression and added, "BEFORE YOU ! Before !"

I almost laughed like an evil Queen at his side.

I was so delirious about him being cured that I didn't even care. It had turned out alright. He was alright. I felt like I was dreaming.

Once the girls were gone, I started to cry again and he held me, letting me cry.

"Bella, I'm sorry.", he kissed my lips, "Please don't cry again. I'm alright now. It's over."

"Why did that happen ?!", I suddenly was full of questions and anger, "What happened ?"

"I'm not sure.", he responded calmly, "But I'm going to find out."

A half an hour later, he was with me in one of medical offices where I had gone for that first gynecologist appointment. He had a needle and took another sample of my blood, placing it into a vial.

"It could be poisoned blood.", he began to explain, "But you haven't been drinking or eating anything out of the norm, have you ?"

"No.", I shook my head, "No, only the food on the list…and water."

"Have any of the school nurses or Dr. Carlisle taken any blood from you ? Or injected any shots into you since you've come here ?", he further asked me.

I thought about this.

"No.", I answered, "The only shot I've gotten was when you injected me in the butt with that sleep medicine when I was in the box."

"That wouldn't do it.", he looked pensive.

"I can't think of anything else…", I was really concentrating now…going over every day of my life here in this school.

"Yea, I don't understand it either.", he turned, doing something to the things on the counter in front of him, "But once I test this I'll have a better idea, hopefully. Your last blood sample was completely normal."

"There are other theories.", he said pensively, looking at me now, "Things that wouldn't show up on a test…but I doubt you're a werewolf or a witch."

I thought about that.

"I have been called a witch before.", I admitted, "Remember that one week when I had the bad

cramps ?"

He made a knowing face.

"Yes, I remember that week.", he shuddered, "But witch isn't what we were all calling you."

He laughed as I tapped him and then I started to cry again.

"Hey.", he frowned a bit, the smile still on his lips though, "Stop…I'm alright…please…."

How many times now did he have to tell me he was alright now ? I still didn't feel right inside.

"I can't help it.", I sniffed, "I thought you were dying. I thought I'd never see you laugh again…and it was my fucking fault. I almost killed you."

"I'm here.", he was nose to nose with me now, stroking my cheek with the back of his hand, "I've been through worse before, believe me."

"When ?", I asked.

He considered that.

"A long time ago.", he simply stated. No details. He was not telling me the truth.

"You're lying.", I accused.

"Okay, I'm lying.", he shrugged, "Look, this is all part of the life of a vampire. These days you have to be careful who you drink."

"Oh, thank you.", I said sarcastically.

"I didn't mean it like that.", he almost rolled his eyes, "Something is different about your blood. I knew that when I met you. We will figure it out."

Then something horrible dawned on me.

"If we can't figure it out…", I began, my voice afraid and shallow, "If this is just how my blood is…then you won't want me anymore."

He looked as if I just spat on him.

"Who said that ?", he frowned even more at me now, his hands off my face and hair.

"I know how vampires work.", I informed, "That's what will happen."

"You know how vampires work.", his eyes were angry, like in gym class, "How ? Because you read a couple of Anne Rice books ?"

"I know the blood is important.", I shared, "It goes hand in hand with the sex, you said that."

"I know but…", he tried to deny it.

"And eventually you won't want me that way anymore, either.", I began to weep, "And I'll become another number, like the rest of them…"

"Are you done now ?", his tone was stern, his right brow raised.

I just cried, looking down at my own fingers. He SHOULD dump me. My blood is poison. I'm…poison.

"We are MORE than just blood and sex.", he began, staring me straight in the eye, "You and I."

He let that sink in…I tried to decipher the meaning behind this statement. But then he spoke again, veering away from that topic.

"I'm 265 years old,", he began, "I've encountered an obstacle or two in my short lifetime. This is all this is. I WILL figure it out. And what's more, I'll—WE'LL overcome it. Do you trust me ?"

His cold hands were on my shoulders, his eyes trying to make me look back into them.

I looked right into his black eyes and said, "Yes, Master."

He smiled at me again now, relieved to hear me say that.

"I know you love to stress and worry all the time.", he said warmly as he looked down at me, holding my face, "Don't. Trust Dr. Cullen. I will pinpoint the problem. And solve it. You're not getting away from me THAT easily, little girl."

I smiled, believing him.

"And by the way.", he added, "Before I freaked out…you were the best thing I've ever tasted in my entire existence, Bella Swan."

I put my arms around his neck and felt his arms around my back, holding me tighter.

"And I WILL have more.", he informed, "Believe THAT."

He kissed me and the passion was still there. That made me so happy as I felt myself swoon inside.

"You stayed with me.", he placed a kiss on my lips, then said, "You took care of me."

He kissed me again.

"You healed me.", he kissed me a third time, "You love me. You will ALWAYS be mine. If I have to give you a complete transfusion, you will be mine. You understand ?"

I felt like crying again. After seeing him in all that pain, I felt changed now, like I had felt it too. I never wanted to see him hurt ever again.

I almost brought up the fact that he told me he loved me but thought against it. He was sick when he made the statement and just hearing it had been enough. I didn't want to put any pressure on him to say the words until he wanted to say it to me again. The words he was saying to me now were everything. I would always cherish them.

I wished I could ask him more about his mother…I would try to help him as he often helped me with my father and mother issues. In time. Carefully.

"Everything aside…", he said, "I want to say - I read the thoughts of the other girls who came to let me feed on them…and I am very impressed on how you took control there. You were downright…dominating. And VERY good at it. They were more afraid of YOU than me."

He looked and sounded very proud of me. I guess I was proud of me too. In reality, I got all my lessons from HIM.

"That's a side of me I don't see very often.", I admitted, "I do what I have to do for the ones I love. I can't lose you. I can't lose anyone else in my life. I won't. If I have to kill, steal, or die…I won't."

"You won't.", he assured me, tilting his head, "Thank you, Bella Swan. Today, you were stronger than I've ever been. You saved me."

Emotionally, I answered, "You saved me first."

"It was MY pleasure.", he answered, kissing the back of my hand as he held it.

His eyes closed and he inhaled my scent, his little purr sounding in his chest. I was deadly poison that smelled like his favorite brand of heroin. It figures, that sounds like the kind of luck I have.

"You still smell good. Just how DID you figure it out ?", he asked me, curiously, "The other girls…the blood?"

I smiled.

"Lestat.", I said honestly, "He was sick from drinking dead blood and once he fed off another human, he was better…"

"Oh my God.", he rolled his eyes at me now.

"Hey it worked so again you have Anne Rice to thank for that.", I poked his chest with my finger.

"I have YOU to thank for that.", he smiled down at me, "Anything you want, it's yours."

I grabbed that fabulous hair of his in back and whispered, "I have everything I want right here."

"317.", he kissed me briefly, just enough to dizzy me, "You're a very. Good. Girl."

I felt all atingle at that very sexy compliment.

"A crazy girl.", he added, "But a good one."

I tapped the top of his perfect hair playfully as he smirked at me. A BAD girl was more like it. If I were truly good, I'd be cradling his dead body in that room now. I tried not to think of that.

"Nothing will change between us.", he vowed, "I will find the answer."

"I know you will.", I said without any fear.

END OF CHAPTER 26