Disclaimer; I do not own Van Helsing or Law and Order SVU! Only C!
Shattering into Reality!
"Your love has set my soul on fire, burnin' out of control! You taught me the ways of desire, now it's takin' its toll!" I rocked out on stage of BOSS'S Night Club. It was a Friday, so that was my cue for stirring up some fun in the house.
"You're the right kind of sinner, to release my inner fantasy! The invincible winner and you know that you were born to be…!" I dragged out as the guitarist and drummer rolled out with me, "You're a Heartbreaker! Dream Maker! Love Taker, don't you mess around with me! You're a Heartbreaker! Dream Maker! Love Taker, don't you mess around – No! No! No!"
I bounced my knee and tapped my heel along with the beat as the drums and guitar reached the bridge of the song. Placing my mouth near the mic again, the girls behind me began to sing the line with me, but at a much higher tone, "You're the right kind of sinner! To release my inner fantasy! The invincible winner! And you know that you were born to be –!"
All went quiet as I tipped the mike some and sang rawer and harder, letting my mind sweep the room with my voice. "You're a Heartbreaker… Dream Maker… Love Taker, don't you mess around with me! You're a Heartbreaker! Dream Maker! Love Taker, don't you mess around with me! You're a Heartbreaker! Dream Maker! Love Taker, don't you mess around with me! You're a Heartbreaker! Dream Maker! Love Taker, HEARTBREAKER!"
Knowing that I liked to rock out on this part, the guitarist quickly passed me the instrument just in time for me to slam and drum hard on its strings. I didn't need a damn pick; my vamped-up fingernails handled it just fine! As I rocked out I couldn't help but think back yesterday about the meeting with the other Detectives.
Flashback
"How the Hell do you manage to piss off so many people in just a span of a few hours?!" Captain Cragen glared down at me angrily as the other four stood around me while I sat in the brown chair. "First there were fireworks going off in Central Park for no damn reason, and then I get several calls about some damn helicopter going around and shooting off chimneys in the middle of the Goddamn night while you and your ex go flying about above Seventh Avenue, while several drunks just happened to pass by; witnessing it all! Thank God they blame the alcohol otherwise the FBI would be hearing about this! Do you know how much I've put my ass on the line keeping you a secret!? Now – start again and do leave out the bullshit!"
I sighed as I rubbed my head after my brain received a pounding from Donald's loud and frustrated tone of voice. Can't really blame him though. I guess I would be pissed too if I was in his shoes. Taking a deep breath, I began again; this time with less of my 'bullshit,' as he called it, "Fine… I was doing the case you gave me. I went everywhere I could and all the spots you showed me that the Homeless where disappearing from, but, like you and your men, I couldn't find anything. I couldn't even catch a scent! So, when dusk came I rested on a rooftop across from Central Park and that's when he came to see me." I said and then took a look around to see if anyone would interfere. When no one did, I continued. "That's when I spotted someone spying on us from across another roof and I went to interrogate him. It turns out that he happened to be a Vatican Agent; a Knight for the Holy Order."
"I thought you said you had a friend in the Holy Order?" Elliot jumped in, sounding just as surprise the last time I said it. "Why would they be attacking you?"
"I don't know!" I huffed at him tiredly. I didn't get much sleep at all last night, and dealing with the reactions of these guys didn't help at all. "Van Helsing said he would keep me out of his reports! He promised he would! When the guy said that an 'informant' told him I was here, I had to rule out Helsing!"
"You mean there's another guy out there that wants your head on a silver platter?" Munch asked, clearly interested and concerned, but all I did was glare at him.
"Apparently," I sighed again and leaned back in the chair some and started to finish the story, "After that a helicopter; using a huge automatic machine gun that you only see in war movies, came after us because that guy was using his cellphone to transfer our whole encounter through the Speaker."
"Oh shit," Tutuola moaned, knowing all too well what that meant. Not only had my encounter had brought trouble to the island, but now there could be other possibilities of who could be listening in!
"The Count managed to save me from a few missiles that threaten to turn me into pieces. After that, I had us hide in an old bankrupted bakery. It was the last thing I can think of before we were blown out of the damn sky," I said coolly while the Captain narrowed his dark eyes at me then slowly sat back down behind his desk.
"There's still the problem of who else that was listening on the other side of the phone," Tutuola said as he leaned against my chair, like he was silently supporting me. "Whoever is after C could be involved with the missing Homeless too."
"How'd you figure that out?" Elliot and including myself stared at him in wonder.
"Think about it! C, you pay back the Homeless with money and food in exchange for a donation of their blood, right?" He asked and I nodded with a grim frown. "Then it only stands to reason that this guy is trying to trap you by using every means possible. First; by taking away your access to an 'easy feeding.' And second; by getting the Holy Order involved."
"Third; pin the blame on you so you would feel trapped no matter what you did!" Olivia pointed out, her brown orbs hardening with worry.
Sighing again, I leaned forward some and scrapped my fingers through my black hair. This was becoming a really big problem! One that I cannot afford to deal with right now! I still have Dracula on my ass (not literally) and I'm still tired after last night's fiasco!
"What can I do?" I finally asked, for I felt really lost now.
"From where I stand, you only have a few options," Cragen said calmly, noticing for the first time how worn the Dampire looked. She really is asking for help! It was only in his nature, as well as his job, to oblige the poor Gothic girl. "Go to Dracula." At that she frowned in what he knew to be a 'no,' but he wasn't done. "Or – disappear for a while. Let us deal with this now. Lay low and out of sight. I know how well you can be named a Ghost for a while. I suggest you play that part until we find more answers."
"You want me to go into hiding like some mole in the ground?" I growled lowly, not liking the 'suggestion' at all.
"Yes," He plainly stated. "Someone knows who you are and their going to try everything to lure you out. The best idea now is to not give them the pleasure. You need back up now; rather it's from the Count or from us. So just keep yourself scares and report to us in case any of those Knights come back to try and make a mess again. Can you do that now?"
The whole room became quiet for a while, waiting for my response. I leaned back in the chair again and stared long and hard into the Captain's eyes, while he readily returned my gaze. He was serious. Of all the times that I've seen him, this had to be the more serious of moment in my life. But – can he and the team really help me? Do I have a choice? I guess I could ignore that order and continue to be a rouge, but that would only result in getting innocent people hurt this time. I cannot risk that! And neither could he. That's why he's asking me to cooperate.
"Fine," I sighed in a low and tired voice.
"You can start by getting some sleep," Cragen said spotting how heavy my eyelids were. "I know that vampires need their 'days' rest too, so even a half-vampire such as you, needs to sleep too."
"Whatever," I breathed and got up to leave, ignoring the worried glances coming from all the rest. I don't need their damn pity or sleep! I didn't know what they discussed after I left but nor did I care. I just wanted to find something to distract me. After roaming around some malls and parks, night came and I realized that BOSS is going to need me soon, so I headed for the Night Club.
Back at the Night Club
After heating my fingers to the last notes in the song Heartbreaker, the crowed began to cheer and clap like mad at my performance. Coming to the club was definitely starting to help me unwind from all the stress! It felt awesome to feel alive and sing these old songs to a stoned and/or drunk crowed. Many were even jumping up and dancing on the floor as my voice and mind made them feel as high as a kit! Cool! The power of mind-manipulation was an addiction in itself! Of course, I had to use my singing to gain the edge, but at least I didn't have to deal with any God-awful headaches!
After taking my bows, I spotted a dark figure, sitting in a corner booth, and staring down at me with those blazing blue eyes. Damn. Doesn't he have better things to do than stalk me all the damn time!? Yet, from the way he was staring at me, I could tell he had liked my singing too. And the way he quirked an eyebrow at the crowed (that I had just gotten high) and then at me, he knew what I was doing and seemed highly interested. Oh please! It's not like he's never used hypnosis before! Well – maybe not through singing Eighties music, but still!
"Bravo! Well done, C!" The BOSS came on stage and gave me a one armed hug and a kiss on the knuckles. I spotted how Dracula's eyes narrowed in dislike at the man's closeness, but I didn't encourage it. As soon as BOSS let me go, I rubbed my 'infected' hand on the back of my pants while he addressed the crowed again. "Isn't she amazing?" He insisted the crowed to clap for me again and I rolled my eyes. Such flattery! But, I appreciate it nonetheless. "Anyway! I've got a special treat! For all of you!" He said which made everyone in the room, including Dracula, interested. "C! You Black Diva! For all the hard earned work you've done, I think you deserve to sing with one of the greatest artists in Musical History!"
Raising my brows at BOSS, I looked around for anyone in the crowed, and behind the band that looked familiar. One of the guys from Arrowsmith? AC DC? Deff Leppard!? I was so excited that I didn't realize BOSS had walked back down with a spare mic and whipped his yellow ponytail back to the crowed and waved a hand towards the stage. "Give a big round of applause for ADAM LEVINE!"
My eyes couldn't possibly get bigger as the stage lights began to flicker when a familiar song started to ring in my ears. The beginnings to If I Never See Your Face Again! I turned to my left and saw Adam himself walking and moving to the beat on stage, coming towards me, with a mic of his own. His brown eyes and nice smile made me want to melt on the spot. My mental chibi fan girl self was going; OH MY GOD! ADAM LEVINE! HE'S HERE!? ON STAGE!? WITH ME!?
"Now as the summer fades I let you slip away," His high yet smooth voice began as I continued to half smile, half gap his way, "You say I'm not your type, but I can make you sway! It makes you burn to learn you're not the only one! I'd let you be if you put down your blazing gun!"
Almost forgetting that it was my turn to sing, I ignored the screaming crowed of fans and moved the mic to my black lips as I sang the next line meant for Rhianna. "Now you've gone somewhere else far away
I don't know if I will find you!"
"Find you, find you!" Adam played out smoothly.
"But you feel my breath on your neck, can't believe I'm right behind you!"
"Right behind you!" He dragged out before coming closer to me as we began the duet. "Cause you keep me coming back for more! And I feel a little better than I did before! If I never see your face again I don't mind! Cause we gone much further than I thought we'd get tonight!"
Dracula, who was holding a small glass of alcohol, had smashed it into pieces in his clenching fist and now the liquid was dripping through his fingers. Never mind how the hoard of mortals crowded around the stage, or how the stranger with painted arms was now closer to his C! It was how C was staring at him that got him steaming with rage! When this – this fool came on stage, C's eyes immediately went wide and shinned with admiration! She was enamored with the boy! Much like many of the other younger females in the room, C's focused was only on that mortal! Outrageous!
When he came into this club, he was hoping to find C and watch how she enticed these people with her voice. It was hardly a surprise when every mortal in the room turned their gaze to her, but what was really surprising was how C kept her focus and the mortal's wills were hers to manipulate. It made him feel a small sense of pride inside his undead chest. C really had become powerful during her time of solitude. Yet it still worried him to know that she could break under the presser any day now!
But now… NOW! This was happening! A mortal, that he was sure C had heard about yet never seen, was suddenly on the stage and singing some seductive song with her! With HIS C! He was so hot that he had to fight down a growl in his throat. Just what was that mortal doing here? And why was C allowing this? What was the connection with her and this man?
"Baby, baby! Please believe me! Find it in your heart to reach me! Promise not to leave me behind!" Adam continued the song with a smile as I followed suit.
"Take me down, but take it easy! Make me think but don't deceive me! Torture me by taking your time!" I sang and for a moment there was silence as I sang the next verse alone. "Cause you keep me coming back for more! And I feel a little better than I did before! If I never see your face again
I don't mind! Cause we gone much further than I thought we'd get tonight –!"
We took turns singing the final lines and when we were finally done, we struck a pose with our backs pressed together in a sort of 'finishing' flair. The crowed loved it! Roars of applause and wolf whistles came to us left and right! I saw that the Count was the only one who hadn't left his seat to get closer to the stage. Fine by me! But it was the look of fierceness in his eyes that almost made me want to shiver. I quickly looked away, because Adam was addressing me and shaking my hand. Woooow!
"Pretty good!" He commented as his smile made me blush like a schoolgirl who was finally face to face with her crush!
"Thanks!" I said, trying not to sound too overwhelmed. I can freak out later about this, because I like to keep my cool demeanor when I'm out in public. Saves me from being too embraced.
"How about one more for the crowd?" He pointed to the people and waved. How can I possibly refuse!? All, save for one, wanted me to sing with Adam Levine! Okay! Why not! It's fucking Adam Noah Levine after all! I can't say no and not expect to be chased by a few angry fans! And here I was supposed to lay low! Well, at least none of them know about my Dampire status! Imagine if the most worldly known artist knew he was singing next to a half-vampiric woman!? How funny!
"How about… One More Night?" As soon as I mentioned one of his famous hits, the girls in the crowd shouted in excitement and encouraged Adam to nod his head and smile.
"Alright! You know the words then?" He asked and I grinned, careful to hide my fangs. "Try me!"
He smiled as those warm brown eyes danced under the lights. The band got ready as Adam began the first verse to one of my favorite songs.
"Ooh, oh oh oh, ooh ooh ooh ooh! Ooh, oh oh oh, ooh ooh ooh ooh!" His eyes were closed for a moment before turning to face the crowed. "You and I go hard at each other like we're going to war! You and I go rough, we keep throwing things and slamming the doors! You and I get so damn dysfunctional we start keeping score! You and I get sick, yeah I know that we can't do this no more!"
"But baby there you go again, there you go again, making me love you!" I sang calmly yet putting some seductive into it. After all, this song was NOT for kids! "Yeah I stop using my head, using my head, let it all go! Got you stuck on my body, on my body, like a tattoo! And now I'm feeling stupid, feeling stupid, crawling back to you!" After that, that's when we started to sing the next verse together.
"So I cross my heart and I hope to die!
That I'll only stay with you one more night!
And I know I said it a million times!
But I'll only stay with you one more night!"
Dracula's jaws were set tight. He was more than willing to leap onto the stage and rip that mortal's throat out! How DARE he get this close to his C! The raw rage and possession he was feeling were reaching their breaking points! Yet he couldn't! Not now when he saw something on C that he hadn't seen in almost half a year now. Her smile. She was smiling! A warm and free of malice while she sang with the man. This was the only thing that made him stop his thoughts of rage as he continued to watch the scene from afar.
Once the song was done, again, the crowd gave their applause and cheers for the man and myself! This is a night I won't easily forget! And that's a fact! Once again, Adam complimented on my singing and asked that I should be on his side should I ever sign up for The Voice! OMFG! That's an awesome but sad thought. For one, the cameras would only catch a ghost of a girl singing with Adam. That could be YouTube worthy though! But no. I'll just thank him and say "I'll think about it."
After that, Adam took his leave, before making him and myself bow to the crowed. Gotta please the fans! BOSS came up and thanked Adam again for coming and surprising the Hell out of me, and then he turned to me and gave me a big hug. I couldn't help but return it, for I was still gitty over the fact that I had sung with Adam Levine! He noticed that I was still shacking with adrenalin and asked for me to go into a private room to calm down. Good idea! I wasn't sure how I looked, but I guess more surprised than normal! After all, my normal attitude is the 'cold shoulder!' But to have it melted away but that surprise was definitely worth it!
As I walked back stage and took the small hallway to a dressing room, many of the other girls clapped me on the back and pressed me for answers on 'what it was like to sing with a super singing hottie!'
When I closed the door, I took a few moments to deeply breathe some air, but then found I couldn't contain myself anymore. I squealed and spun around a few times before falling into a chair to calm down again. "Oh man! That was awesome!"
"Really? Pray tell what you mean by awesome?" A cold and thick-accent voice hissed to my far right. I sighed as I turned to see Dracula standing, looking rather peeved about something while his arms crossed over his chest. He didn't have his cloak on this time, which means he was here to blend in, somewhat, and watch me sing. No way am I letting his 'possessive side' ruin my night! Not tonight!
"Why are you so bent out of shape?" I pointedly asked with a smug grin as those blue eyes of his darkened some with irritation. "It's just an act! Something to please the crowed. Like a surprise. It draws more business for the club that way."
"Those mortal's weren't the only ones who were pleased by that surprise!" He growled to me as his frown deepened. Raising an eyebrow in confusion, I took a bottle of water which was left in the room, and opened it to drink out of. After all that singing, I was parched!
"And what does that mean?" I demanded miffly and returned his cold gaze with my own.
"That you were attracted to him!" Dracula hollered and took a few steps towards me. "That mortal! I saw it! Do not lie to me and say that it is not true!"
"A lot of girls are attracted to him! He's one of the most iconic musicians in this country!" I said sternly. "Why are we having this conversation? It's not like it matters!"
"It does matter because it matters to you!" He spat and my brows crunched in confusion, until at last, it hit me! The way his blue eyes burned with possession and how his face was morphed into barely controlled anger, and how his voice spoke disapproval at me. Oh. My. God. In Heaven. He's jealous! "I saw how you sang with him! Saw how your eyes lit up upon seeing him! And what's worse! He was looking at you with the same admiration I saw in you! How can you sit there and say it doesn't matter when –!"
"AAAAH HA HA HA HA AAAH!" I burst out laughing so loud that he froze in his shoes. Even as his expression darkened into something that a demon would be afraid of, I continued to laugh and hold my sides as I leaned the chair back to help me cope with the mood I was in.
"This is NOT funny, C!" He hissed at me as his fangs grew out menacingly at me, but I just couldn't help it! The whole thing was sooo funny!
"YOUR JEALOUS!" I hollered at last as I tried to wipe a few bloody tears from my eyes. "Of Adam Levine!"
"I am not jealous!" He growled out coolly as he tried to keep his fists to his side. Damn! Who looks like a child now!? Although this child looked like he had been severally pranked on by a parent and now he was showing his silent tantrum!
"The Hell you're not!" I said as I continued to laugh at him as I slapped my left leg and leaned my chair further into the wall, so that I can cross my boots as they were pointing to him. "Oh this is rich! I'd never thought I'd see the day where Count Dracula can express an emotion such as jealously! To an American Iconic Singer nonetheless! Oh, where's a voice recorder when I need one! I would SO use this as blackmail!"
"Carolyn!" He hissed my name through gritted teeth as his eyes pulsed with power. Boy, he's pissed! But that's not gonna scare me. What made me nervous were the reasons of WHY he was jealous in the first place!
"What the Hell do you care anyway?" I finally asked, my amusement slowly going away. "The man is out of my league! Besides! He's already got a girl! But to answer your unasked question; of course I'm attracted to him! About more than half of the female population in America alone are as well! I mean I have his entire album and then some on my MP3! For crying out loud, Count! He's a famous artist of music! The kind of music that helped me got over my depression when I was younger! Thanks for asking!" Taking a breather I took a swallow of water from the bottle as Dracula's expression seemed to be cooling down.
"And, for the record, Adam is not the only singer I've admired for years! Look around you, Count! THIS is the Twenty First Century! People can admire and become attracted to whoever they feel like it because of their status and great achievements in this dark world! People, like me, need others like Adam and such to fill in that void of loneliness with music! What did you expect anyway when you 'appeared' in here without knocking? Of course the man is going to set my nerves on fire! Music is the one thing that makes me forget my harsh past. Among other things."
He remained silent the whole time I scolded him, his face becoming thoughtful yet somewhat hidden in that cool facade. How DARE he come in and burst my bubble of happiness with his constant male dominants! Even if he was jealous, I sure as Hell wasn't going to let him ruin it for me anymore than he had.
"Is – that all you feel for him?" He silently asked, making me look up at him in hidden wonder.
"Admiration is a lot different than attraction, Count," I huffed out coolly. "Try not to get confused by the two. And here I thought you were gonna lecture me about my singing to a bunch of drunken mortals. IF you haven't noticed; it's the only job that pays for my rental room! And no, I don't need any handouts from you." I spat before he could say anything to that, which earned me a slight look of hurt in his eyes, but I tried to ignore it. HE'S the one who insists on me asking for his help for days and now he's offended!? Or – has he always been offended? I couldn't tell, because now I was mad.
"Very well," He said suddenly becoming cold and then turned to leave through the door. "I shall see you later than. And, your performance," he eyed me closely before giving me a small smirk, "Was… interesting. Then again, you have always been an interesting person."
"NOW you discover this?" I stared at him into shock and was rewarded with a small chuckle.
"Take care, darling, for you have given me much to think about. Perhaps we can meet again under different circumstances," He said and before I could counter him, he disappeared in a puff of smoke. Sheesh! You'd think the guy would learn! Taking a deep breath to calm myself, I took my leave of the club and headed back for my apartment where I can doze off. Somewhat.
"People can admire and become attracted to whoever they feel like it because of their status and great achievements in this dark world!"
Those words troubled him after last night's encounter with C. Did that mean she only admired him? He knew that he smelled her arousal for him the last time he kissed her, but was that it? Is she still hanging onto her anger for him even after he apologized to her? Though he agreed to the fact that this world was never bright, but to say that people can still gain a status to being great left him to wonder if she was right. Those were the people she would always admire; someone to go beyond the world of fear and hate only to fight for a cause, even if the world was burning down around them. He admired that trait in her from the moment they first met. She desired true strength, and not the selfish kind. But – how can he convince her that he was no longer selfish and only wanted her in his unlife?
Sighing to himself as he sat in a chair at his suit, he realized that he was going to have to ask those mortals at the SVU Department again. That woman knew more than the rest, and to ask one female on how to gain the affection of another female seemed low to him, but at this point he had little choice. It was either asking for aid or watch as C slowly lost her mind to her rage and blood-lust. Standing up he then teleported into the police station just as the others were coming out of their Captain's office. It was amusing to when they saw him, and Detective Stabler's reaction was a violent jolt and falling backwards into the others.
"Holy shit! Why are you back here!?" Elliot breathed out while he held a hand over his chest as the other two men pulled him back to his feet.
"Jesus, Elliot! Calm down! It's not like he's gonna bite you anytime soon!" Tutuola teased yet kept a straight face.
"We shall see in due time," The Count smirked and his blue eyes turned to Olivia, who had promptly placed her hand on the handle of her gun, ready to draw it at him. "Though I did not come here to threaten anyone."
"Ya, we'll believe that in a heartbeat," Elliot mumbled sourly and the vampire only glared at him.
"So, why are you here then?" Munch asked while he tried to break up the tension between the two men.
"I have come seeking for some advice," Dracula admitted dryly and then turned to face Detective Benson again. "From you, Detective."
"Me?" Olivia nearly gapped at him in shock as all the men raised an eyebrow at them.
"Yes." The Count spoke again and only took a single step towards her. "You; who has known my Dampire for the longest time since she arrived here. I need to know how to regain her trust, for I am running out of time. Her rage will soon be unstoppable if I cannot get close to her."
"Wait! Wait! You mean you're asking our Olivia on dating advice?" Elliot could not hide his amusement while the others rubbed their heads with their hands as Dracula looked ready to choke the life out of him.
"Tis no concern of yours, mortal!" Dracula hissed at him darkly.
"It is if you're forcing my partner into helping you again, like last time!" Detective Stabler pointed out as he kept his hands in his pockets, like he wasn't addressing someone that was very dangerous.
"Alright, enough of the pissing matches!" Munch stood in between the two men, noticing how each one wanted the other to 'drop dead' as it were. "Just state your request and she'll do what she can, right Olivia?" He turned back to the woman who was uncomfortably shifting her weight from one foot to the other.
"Well," Olivia started out and rubbed the back of her neck while trying to ignore the powerful gaze of the vampire that was waiting patiently for her reply. "You – can start by accompanying her to her favorite spots in the city." She pointed out.
"Hardly. She can barely stand my presents for too long as of last night," Dracula pointed out coolly, for he too did not like asking for help on anything. He was always used to following through his plans on his own, but with C, he had to make a different judgment call, for both their sakes!
"And we already know how that date turned out!" Elliot snickered which earned him another warning glare from the Count.
"What about…," Olivia started out as her eyes drifted to anything that would help her get this fiend off her back! When her brown orbs spotted a newspaper with a 'dancing' party picture on the front, she moved passed all of them and went to retrieve it. All the men watched her in silent wonder as the woman's eyes continued to scan the paper and then she smiled. "A dance!"
"What now?" Munch asked as Tutuola smirked while Elliot and Dracula stared her down in question.
"Ask C to go with you to a dance being held in Rockefeller Center tonight! It's for celebrating the start of spring!" She pointed out as all the men gave her a skeptic glance.
"You're kidding, right?" Elliot groaned while the vampire looked thoughtful. "With all those people there, she could go wild for blood! Not to mention when she finds out that we were all a part of this plan to get her to talk to the King of Bloodsuckers here!"
"We don't have a choice!" She pointed out then bravely stood in front of the one being she should still be weary off. "You want C to forgive you? Right? You want to gain her trust again? You came for my advice and this is the only way I know of! C wouldn't be foolish enough to lose her cool out in public!"
"But Olivia –!"
"You present a unique proposal then," Dracula smirked at her as the woman glared at him.
"But if you go and ask C yourself, there's a good chance she'll refuse to go no matter what we say!" Munch pointed out calmly.
"Then I'll go and ask her to come with me," Olivia said which had regain all their attention back to her. "No offence, but none of you men seem to understand what a woman is going through when it comes to emotions."
"None taken," Tutuola mumbled while the other two mortal men rolled their eyes at her, yet Dracula's gaze did not leave her. Instead of looking offended, he looked thoughtful.
"Okay, here's my proposal then," Olivia stood her ground as each one of them paid closer attention to her. "I'll go and ask C to come to the party with me for some 'stress-free' fun. You have to stay out of sight while the others convince the band to play some music for you two to dance to."
"What!?" All three men gapped at her in wonder. "I don't have a clue on what a vampire or a half-vampire's music request would be!" Munch complained rather unhappily at being a part of this awkward plan. "I have a few ideas," Tutuola smirked as Dracula eyed him closely while Elliot face palmed. "This guy is married." He pointed out and Elliot paled when he mentioned that to the Count. "I know he knows a few songs written to 'spice' up the mood." Quirking a brow at them, Dracula began to wonder if asking them for aid was a mistake.
"I'll go and tell the Captain. He'll want to know about this," Elliot muttered and quickly slipped to his boss's office, grateful to get away.
"I'll go and find C then! You two stay with the Count and give him some useful tips on this century's music! We met up at Rockefeller Center at seven pm sharp!" Olivia pointed and quickly headed for the door while the two Detectives and the Count stared at her skeptically.
"Hey!" Tutuola called out but the woman was gone and now he and his partner were left with a very weary looking vampire. Five seconds of awkward silence passed them by before the man blew out a long stream of air. "Woman. They think they know everything to solve the world's greatest problems!"
"One can only imagine why," The Count agreed mildly, but wore a smirk as Munch looked uncomfortable standing between the two. It was only weeks ago they all agreed that Dracula was a complete and possessive freak! NOW they were helping the poor bat regain the trust of his ex-girlfriend to keep her from going insane! Oh, how quickly times can change!
I only had a few hours of more rest, but it didn't really help. My mind was foggy and I kept hearing my other half complain about being hungry again! Damn it! I thought I had a bite from some drunk last night! I think? Damn, I'm so tired I can't even think straight! I was currently walking down Madison Avenue, to look for any more clues on the missing Homeless, but I didn't find much. What the fucking Hell was this world coming to!? Who would kidnap Homeless for God knows what, and not leave a fucking trail behind!? This was aggravating to say the least! And now I gotta deal with some uncommon hunger pains along with my former master! Uagh. What a nightmare!
"Hey! C!" A familiar, female voice pulls my attention to a car driving up beside me. It's Detective Olivia. She's looking rather cheerful to. I wonder why?
"Detective," I regarded her as I continued to walk on the sidewalk while she slowed down and drove the vehicle beside me.
"I want to ask you something," She said, looking at me eagerly. "Would you please get in?"
'Would you please?' I wonder what she wants to be asking so formally to me. "Alright," I breathed out and stepped around the back and opened the passenger door and climbed into the seat. Once I was in and closed her door, Olivia sped the car up and turned a corner. "So? What is it you want this time?" I asked coolly, giving her the impression that I wasn't in the mood for company now.
"It's nothing too grand, but I was hoping you would come with me and have a Girl's out tonight!" She smiled innocently as I raised a brow at her in question. A 'girl's out' tonight? Really? I thought in dislike, but curious to why she would bring it up left me to ponder over her offer.
"Why?" I finally asked in a deadpanned tone.
"Why not?" She pointed out calmly, yet her eyes looked distracted by something else. "I just think that we've been working too hard, along with the Captain, so we could use a break!" She smiled to me as I continued to observe her from over my sunglasses. "There's a dance tonight in Rockefeller Center. Lots of food and music to celebrate the first days of spring."
"Let me get this straight," I said coolly and laid out my fingers to 'point the options' of her offer. "You want me to go on a girl's night with you, to a party, filled with people and such, just to celebrate spring?"
"Yes! I want you to come! The others are coming to, but their all guys! I would like to have another woman back me up in case something happens!" She said and I couldn't help but laugh a little at what she was suggesting. Despite all that male company that she already hangs around, she asks now of all times to defend her and to a public party no less!? Suspicious much? Then again, I guess it would be fun showing up and giving the 'men' a few scares. For Olivia's sake, I guess, since she's been there for me. I suppose I'll just be paying her back by going with.
"Alright," I said and stretched my back a bit. "Not sure why, but do I need to wear anything special?"
"We'll stop at my place and I can get you something from my private collection," She smiled as her brown orbs shined with joy. "The fun doesn't start until seven tonight."
"I'll bet," I muttered as she turned another corner as I rested my chin in my fist, wondering what in the world got into me to agree to this. Oh well, (like she said) I guess I could use a break.
The moment she stopped in her parking spot, she practically dragged me inside and up to her apartment. I don't know why she was so excited about some spring party, but hey, I guess whenever I join a party it gets interesting! Right? Well, she wasn't kidding about her 'privet collection!' I never saw a woman's closet looking so exquisite such as hers! Maybe she uses these for her undercover jobs. They were full of slim looking outfits and only two were black. That's just fine by me; I can go slim, as long as it doesn't reveal my back. A burnt mark of the cross is probably not the best thing to show off.
Olivia picked a dark green gown with a spring like flair. Is this a party for the rich or what? The black dress looked like something for a high school prom. It fit tightly across my frame and acted like a silky curtain in the back. Its shoulder straps were flat and helped to support my bust region, which I was thankful that it did not hold a v slit going south to my valley. I know I maybe hot but I still don't like showing off! I thought to myself as I searched her drawers for some decent gloves. I also want to hide the burn marks on my wrists. It's been too long since I've dressed for anything, and yet – the change feels nice. Just keep it simple. Should something go down, I want to be able to fight in this thing! I even grabbed a silky black scarf to wrap around my neck; also hiding a few 'tell-all' marks. As for my hair? Eh. I'll keep it up with the sticks.
"I just got a text from my partner saying that their already at Rockefeller," Olivia walked in while still staring down into the window of her phone. "We can meet them outside and…" She trailed off when her eyes found me, standing in her bedroom, wearing one of her dresses. Oh boy. "Wow!" She commented as her eyes scanned me from head to toe. "You look beautiful!"
"Thanks," I grumbled out as I slipped on the elbow length, black gloves. "When is the party again?"
"At seven, but we can get there an hour later if you want," She then walked behind me to help zipper up the backside of the dress and I returned the favor for her. "Maybe you should wear your hair down? It would really look nice on you!"
"I like it up," I said dryly as I puckered my black lips right after re-applying more of my lipstick.
"Suit yourself. Come on, the guys are waiting for us!" She gestured for me to follow and I rolled my eyes as I tucked all my folded cloths near the far corner of her room, for safe keeping. Unfortunately, I could not bring any of my guns or knives with me, but that was alright. I had my claws and teeth after all. My boots had to be replaced with the damn one inch high heal shoes to match the dress, but I will deal. Eventually.
Some of the men, in the hotel, blew a wolf-whistle at us, but I ignored them as we climbed down the stairs and out the door. When we were back in the car, I felt like I was being watched from afar. Turning to the rooftops, I scanned each building but found nothing. The darkening sky gave away too many shadows so it could have been a trick of the left over light, but still. That feeling just wouldn't go away.
"Everything alright, C?" Olivia asked me, turning my eyes back to her and I saw the concern in her face. Shrugging to her answer, I opened the door and climbed in the passenger seat. "You sure?" She asked again as she seated herself in front of the steering wheel.
"Yes," I breathed out, rather irritated, but kept my eyes out of the window. "Let's just get this over with." With a slight concerned look from her, she turned on her car and we drove off towards the party.
When we finally made it to Rockefeller Center the colorful lights and noise almost made me dizzy. But, holding Olivia's arm had helped me cope; along with the feel of her pulse. We spotted the others, dressed in formal outfits too, along with the Captain. He's here too? Okay. What's going on?
Elliot watched as Olivia and C made it to the Center; looking awesome! He had to admit, C looked damn fine in that black dress! Along with his partner.
"Beautiful," He heard the Count muter from within the shadows behind a wall, for he could tell that his blue eyes were staring longingly at her.
"Hey! Stay out of sight!" Tutuola hissed quietly as the woman came closer.
"Ladies!" Munch smiled and waved a hand at them to join in the crowed. "The band just got here too. Apparently, the guy they hired does wedding receptions too!"
"That's nice," I spat and folded my arms under my chest while eyeing each of them with annoyance. "Alright! Spill!"
"Spill what?" Tutuola asked as Olivia stood next to her partner while I tapped my heel on the ground impatiently, for I did not miss the sneaky looks that all of them shared. "Honestly C, we're all just here to have a good time and Liv was just being thoughtful!" Elliot explained but I detected the note of something more in his suggestive tone.
"I'm not buying it," I said calmly. "You all are planning something against me and I want to know what!"
"Let's just say we are also tired of dealing with that 'bad attitude' you keep bringing up," Captain Cragen said calmly as most of the people moved to the open part of the area to start a dance.
"So this is just supposed to be an escape goat from my bad attitude!?" I growled as their eyes shifted from me to something over my shoulder.
"Possibly, darling," A rich voice laced in velvet made me spin around in shock, "After all, it is not a crime to escape such things from time to time."
There stood Dracula, grinning like mad as my shocked, but also severely pissed off eyes turned from him to the Special Victims Unit. Holy Hell! I've been set up! "You –!? You people set this up!?" I hissed as Elliot and Munch started taking a few nervous steps back from me.
"It's about time you two set aside each other's differences and talk." Cragen said calmly as an inhuman growl vibrated from my throat while my irises turned red. A hand was placed on my shoulder and it was damn hard to resist biting at the offending appendage.
"Do not growl in public, my dear," Dracula scorned me calmly as his hand suddenly grabbed mine and pulled me to the dance floor. Damn it all! I can't cause a scene in this place and they knew it to! That's why they planned this! "Come. There is much to discus, but first; dance with me."
"I'd rather eat worms!" I hissed and tried to escape from his grip, but he held on strong and there was little I could do with fighting him. We were on the dance floor, surrounded by people and the music rolling on loud with Huey Lewis' Stuck with You. The singer, a big man with a few others wearing all tuxedos. Their dark skin reflecting off the lights as the main singer took the mic and began singing while I was thrown into Dracula's embrace and forced to dance while trying not to panic. This was the worst situation I have ever been in! And I fell for it! Badly!
"We've had some fun, and yes we've had our ups and downs.
Been down that rocky road, but here we are, still around.
We thought about someone else, but neither one took the bait.
We thought about breaking up, but now we know it's much too late."
"Relax, my C," Dracula mused as he spun us slowly while I tried to ignore the hand gripping my hip. "This is a night to enjoy. You should take the advice of your friends more often. They are very helpful, for mortals."
"I'll bet!" I spat yet tried to maintain some sense of dignity. This was a pride bruiser to say the least. After he stole a kiss from me, he shows up and insults one of my favorite music artists, and then he convinces the human's I'm helping to trick me into coming to this 'spring dance' with Olivia and now he plans to talk by dancing with me!? What is wrong with this picture!?
"We are bound by all the rest. Like the same phone number.
All the same friends, and the same address!"
"Yes, it's true, (yes it's true) I am happy to be stuck with you!
Yes, it's true, (yes it's true) I'm so happy to be stuck with you!
Cause I can see, (I can see) that you're happy to be stuck with me!"
"So, you just planned on sweeping me off my feet tonight while you convinced them into helping you?" I narrowed my eyes as his hands kept a firm grip on me, yet he still managed to keep the pace smooth. He was always such a smooth dancer.
"Actually, the credit for tonight's meeting goes to your lady officer there," His blue eyes brightened with mirth and mine glared as we both spotted the group of Detectives watching us from afar. Damn it!
"Wait! You asked a woman mortal to help you?" I quirked a brow at him and smirked when he sighed. He then spun us and pulled me closer till his cold lips were against my ear.
"You left me with no choice, darling," He breathed out, making my skin bump and crawl. "They too, worry for your sanity. And I just wish to have you by my side again, but not as a servant."
I couldn't stop the blush that crawled up into my cheeks, yet I wondered what he meant. Not as a servant half-vampire? Does he mean –!?
"Are – you offering to turn me – into a full vampire?" I spoke in hush whispers as the floor became crowded, but he didn't seem to mind.
Dracula only smiled at me and then we dipped some, his face so close to mine that it reminded me of the last dance we were in. "If you want me to, my dear Carolyn. I can." He husked back to me and I swallowed. Whoa! This was totally what I did not expect!
As we danced through the song, my mind kept racing with all sorts of questions. Why was Dracula offering to turn me fully? What does he have to gain, besides having me as a Bride? Or – is that his plan all along? To make me his Bride! "I –!" I kept looking around, really panic stricken now and noticed how the detectives were looking at me; their faces morphed into worry when they say my fearful expression. "I need some air!" I quick fought out of his grasp, but he held tightly to me.
When he noticed my struggles, he started to pull us away from the crowed, into a more 'private' area behind some stone structures. The others watched and a few wanted to follow, but their Captain said no.
"Let them have their alone time," He said as Olivia watched them leave and wondered if she should regret dragging C into this.
"Carolyn?" Dracula watched as I quickly walked towards a planted tree. Its stone pot gave me a place to lean against as I faced my back to him. "Did I say something to offend you?" He finally asked calmly.
"No! No! But – seriously!" I began speaking quickly and turned to face him. "It's just – WHY!? Why do you want me? I'm nothing special! Nothing at all! I have nothing to give you! I'm just a – a –!"
"You are more worthy than you know," He replied calmly as those eyes of his held mine. Every time he said those words, they left me standing in the center of some damn spotlight. Like I was questioning my own values inside. "Carolyn." He spoke my name and approached me cautiously, but I began to back away with the same pace. He frowned at my retreat but did not stop trying to advance towards me. "There is more going on than you know. I know what you've tried to do for this city, but – it is not enough. You are many things, C, but you are still one woman. You are strong in both mind and spirit, but you do not let yourself have a moment of happiness. And why, do you ask? It is because you are what brings me happiness."
My eyes widened some as my legs seemed to freeze in their sockets. Is this true? Is he just saying this to get another rise out of me or is he speaking the truth.
"I have never been more serious in my life!" He spat darkly as his eyes hardened over my form. Though I could say something smart about his last comment, but something told me I should let him continue. "Since that day, upon the balcony of Castle Frankenstein, do you not remember?" I frowned and tried to turn my gaze away from him, but he put his left hand under my chin and raised my head again. "It was your smile, C. You have a beautiful smile; one that I've ever seen you wear. And I've seen it time and time again the more I've gotten to know you. And yet – it wasn't just your smile. The way you laugh at the oddest of times, and your witty humor. How you can solve problems when everyone else is left in the dark. Do you not see why I wish to have you?" My eyes felt the salty sting of tears at the edge, but I held strong as he leaned in closer to my face. "It is because – you have made me feel, C. Feel more than I ever have in the last five centuries I had to endure. Because of you, my C. My heart may no longer beat, but now – I offer it to you, will all my love."
I froze. I wasn't sure how I should react. For all of my life, the only person to ever tell me that they loved me and stay true to it was my Godfather Dean. Now however, by looking into the bright blue eyes of this man/this monster, and how his face is desperately searching and waiting for my reply. The band started to sing Elvis' Suspicious Minds, which seemed rather fitting for now.
"Caught in a trap! We can't walk out! Because I love you too much, baby!"
"Me?" I finally breathed out and he smiled and nodded while both his undead hands rested at my collarbone as his thumbs brushed against the side of my face. "How do you know I'm deserving of you?" I finally asked and his smile slowly died. "I've – done nothing to gain your favor and I even tried to kill you! Besides – I'm all – broken inside. I'm not even that pretty and yet –!"
"Who dared to tell you this!?" He suddenly demanded angrily as his grip tightened on me. "Whoever said those things shall be punished for it! I shall see to it myself that they pay!" He's jumping to conclusions! I'd best stop him!
"It's not that! It's just…"
"I will impale them and send them into oblivion for harming you! I will not stand by and watch while you are being tortured inside because someone –!"
"I'M SCARRED!" I finally confessed and it ceased his raging ranting for the moment.
"What do you mean scarred? You said that –."
"No. I – didn't mean it like that," I said and he slid his hands down to my shoulders, but kept me from fleeing. I wasn't going to make him think that I had become somebodies sexual toy, so – here comes the truth.
"Carolyn. Tell me! What are you hiding?" He spoke in a pleading manner that almost broke me, but I took a deep breath and stared right back into those bright eyes of his.
"I ran away," I said and he blinked in confusion. "That day, after I overheard you and Ranfield talk about me, I ran away. I – was going to come back eventually but – I was caught by Cornwell and his men." Dracula's eyes hardened, but he stayed quiet to let me continue. "He – knocked me out and put me in a box. The next thing I remember was being tied to a cross on top of some hill next to the ocean. Stripped of my dignity too." His hands tightened rather for my comfort or for his rage I wasn't sure, but I kept going anyway. "He pushed me into it. The sea. I – couldn't get away because he – had my wrists and feet bound to the cross with silver blessed wiring. It was two weeks afterword's that I woke up here, in New York, on one of the beaches after a group of greedy kids cut me free and my other half killed them. But – their still there. The scars. They haven't healed at all since I came here and – I tried everything but – their still there."
"Carolyn." He breathed my name as his face hardened with each minute that passed.
"That's why I think I am no longer suited for you," I said coolly, "Because my skin is burned with the one symbol you hate the most. A cross. Also – you've always hatted what was yours to admitting they were weak and humiliated in such a way it would be a dishonor on your tittle to even consider – MMMH! HMM-MM!"
He suddenly pulled me into a kiss. A kiss so rough yet gentle it left me breathless. I tried to fight him off but he wouldn't let go. Finally, I relaxed some and his arms wrapped around me and I felt one hand holding the back of my skull. When he released me, he pulled my face to his chest and held me their while his chin lay on top of my head. He held me for the longest time and I can fell his aura pulsing around me, as if to protect me from the world, giving me strength in such a way that I was left swaying in his grasp, but he held me.
"My Carolyn," He breathed and his voice sounded shaky, like he was barely controlling himself. "I swear to you I will find him and make him regret the day he was ever sired! He will pay one hundred fold for what he did to you! I promise you! You will have your revenge on him! You are not alone anymore, my C, so stop convincing yourself that you are! I am here now! For you! Hate me if you must but do not leave yourself from my sight anymore."
I wasn't sure what to do or say. In times like these I feel so emotional and stressed, and I feel so fucking tired of it all, that I just have to cry. So I did. My blood stained tears fell from my eyes as the Count's arms held me even closer to him, almost molding us together. I brought up a fist and started hitting him in his shoulder, but not hard enough to cause damage, and he let me. I wanted to hate him! I did. But – what he said, what he's told me and how he's made me feel for the longest time and bringing back those old feelings out again just made me want to hit him. I choked and sobbed some into his chest as my hits became fainter, but all he did was 'shush' me and rocked me slowly in his strong yet protective embrace.
He basically tells me he loves me and its okay for me to hate him too while promising to kill the vampire that was responsible for these burns on my wrists, ankles and back. What kind of guy does that?
A man. Dracula had always been the most fearful and hated of monsters, but right now (for me) he was being the man I needed now. Oh, what have I mixed myself into now? Yet, as my sobs died down and I felt by body grow weaker by the second, I now realized what sleep deprivation does to you after two weeks without having one good night's sleep. I'm sooo damn tired.
Then sleep, my C. Sleep. I promise you will feel better once you do.
I can't. I mental whined back and trembled under his touch as his hands rubbed my arms in comfort. The dreams – I don't want to go back into the ocean –.
Do not fear. I shall keep them at bay. Now sleep. Close your eyes, C. Sleep.
With a wave of his hand over her eyes, his Dampire lightly groaned as his will casted her into slumber. She will need it. He thought as he held her closely. Now more than ever. He sighed and held her tightly. He was furious that that maggot had tied her to a God-blessed cross and then sent her to her doom in the ocean! It left his inner beast howling for blood and revenge! He will die! I promise you C. We will find him and he WILL die!
"Is everything alright?" The soft voice of Detective Benson turned his head towards the opening that he and C slipped passed moments ago. She was looking at the unconscious woman in his arms with the deepest concerns, and he smiled inside in gratitude. He was in this woman's debt, for she was there for C when he couldn't be.
"Once C has fully rested, and her blood-lust under more control; Yes. She will be," Dracula breathed out as the rest of her party came in to investigate while he lifted C's sleeping form off the ground and into a bridal style embrace. "Until then, I must keep her close to me."
"Then I have a suggestion," Captain Cragen stepped forward as the vampire eyed him closely. "Keep her at your place for a few days while we try and find out who wants her killed. You stay out of sight too, I've got too much on my plate already without you 'vampires' getting involved."
"Very well," Dracula smirked and bowed his head to them. "I wish to thank you for looking after my Dampire for as long as you have. Especially to you, Ms. Benson."
Olivia blinked in surprise, but then straightened herself and nodded in response. "I was just doing my job."
"Indeed. Tis no wonder where she learns her humility from." Dracula stated calmly and each one of them thought; Did we just get complimented by the King of Vampires!? For it showed on their faces.
"Let's pray it sticks then!" Tutuola spoke rather smugly to him. "She may be strong, but she intends to misjudge things a little too quickly."
"A lesson I shall drive into her once she is well," The Count smirked at him then turned his back to them. "Until the next time, Detectives. Good evening." With that, he teleported away in black smoke with C in his arms.
"Damn. I'm never going to get used to that!" Elliot muttered as he followed the rest back into the party. Olivia remained in the area for just a bit longer, for she recalled some of the conversation that she overheard between the two beings and saw it as a good sign. C had been broken badly, and the Count had come to fix things and also renew their love. It was such a romantic gesture that she would have been pissed at C if she refused him again! C needed him now more than ever! It was about time she stopped acting like such a child, and an even better timing, for the old vampire to take the roll as her man!
Yes. Detective Benson thought with a smile as she turned back to the party when she heard her partner calling out for he. Things are going to get better!
Little did any of them know a dark figure stood on a rooftop, forty stories above the scene, watching everything. Scheming as the grip on his cane increased. I will not be underestimated by you again, Vampire King! Not by you or your half breed wench!
BONG! BONG! Uh-Oh! Who is this in the shadow!? Will Dracula and C earn their happily ever after, or will more blood be spilled before any of them find peace? Tune in next time and I hope you loved the chapter as much as I did!
I was seriously considering not putting that (Easter egg) surprise of Adam Levin, but then I just decided "Hey! It's funny, and proves a point! Why not!?" Well I gotta go and rest up for the next chapter! I know you're all foaming at the mouth trying to put the puzzle together that I have presented to all of you, but rest assured, in the end it will all make sense!
REVIEW! REVIEW! And REVIEW! And I'll see ya all later! Sincerely, BR2.