A/N: Hey folks! I know it's been a while since the last update again - I appreciate your patience. Also, thanks to everyone who reviewed the last chapter - they really make me want to write!

A/N: Thanks to Northwomn, my beautiful beta. And, these characters aren't mine... blah blah blah :-)

Chapter 12

Sookie's POV

When I woke the next day, it was slowly. I began in a sleepy haze, stretching each of my limbs languorously, enjoying the tightening and loosening of each muscle. I felt myself smiling and as I stretched muscles closer to the core of my body, feeling a new kind of interesting soreness. I remembered why I woke with a smile; the thoughts and memories of last night came rushing back in vivid, explicit detail. I couldn't help but blush, and then snuggle in close to the source of my recent pleasure for a few minutes, reliving every detail in my memory, until I could no longer ignore nature's call.

After I had seen to my human needs (as Pam would say) and showered quickly, I wrapped myself in a soft bathrobe and stood in the doorway to the bedroom for a moment, just looking at Eric lying in the bed. He was lying on his stomach, one arm shoved under his pillow and the other down at his side; his hair was swept back at funny angles and spread out on the pillow behind his head. Its yellowness made me wonder how beautifully it would shine in the sun, and I couldn't help but be a little sad I would never see it in such conditions. That thought took me away to imagining Eric as a human – a Viking warrior in his prime; how masculine and virile he must have been. I smiled a little to myself; wishing I could have witnessed it.

I sat down at the provided desk and pulled out the notepad and pen I found in a drawer. I felt the need to compile the information I knew about Sophie-Anne's mystery vampire murderer, even though I was feeling a bit squeamish as far as my future employment with her was concerned. I wanted to do a good job on what I had been assigned, a value taught early in most homes I knew.

I could almost hear Gran saying, "Sookie, a job worth doing is a job worth doing right," and pointing emphatically with the spoon or spatula she was using to make dinner. These conversations had most usually taken place while I was doing homework at the kitchen table, eyeing the dropping sun with impatience and wanting to go outside. I tried to argue, but it never failed that she knew my teacher and would say, "Now, Sook, I know Mrs. Watson, and there's just no way she would give you homework that wasn't important. You better show her what you've got!"

So, on my paper, I made a few lists – questions I had, things I knew, and things I didn't know for sure. The murders had been downright nasty (not that one ever wasn't), but I'd been surprised at the degree of hatred in the particular methods. Who did they hate, though - all vampires, or just these particular ones? It seemed peculiar to me that both of them had been favorites of Queen Sophie-Anne; coincidence? I had always assumed that vampires were very careful about security. How had the security been breached? Did the two households have any people in common? Was there some way of finding out that kind of information? Surely that was too easy. Sophie-Anne had undoubtedly thought of that already.

No matter the frightening experience of yesterday, I was proud that I was using my disability to help someone and I was definitely interested in what I would hear from Fabrizio, the servant of the first murder victim that had been found injured, and Bree, Jodee's ex-girlfriend who had been overheard having a suspicious phone conversation shortly before the second murder. Cheesy or not, I made a web on a separate sheet of paper, showing any connections I was aware of between the involved parties. It had to be rooted in real investigative work somewhere, surely, to be in every single detective show on TV, right? I couldn't help but wonder if my experience with mystery novels would help me piece the clues together, then laughed out loud at myself. I could see it now – my new business: Sookie Stackhouse, Super Sleuth. I could have it built right next to Merlotte's.

I wondered what other vampires were considered in Sophie-Anne's special circle, and caught myself thinking about Hadley. It was crazy to think that she was here, perfectly fine, after not seeing her for ten years. I really would have to make sure at some point that she knew about Aunt Linda's passing, unfortunately. I hoped she already knew; it would be so much easier that way.

Trying to distract myself, I stared back down at the list I had started and tried to make some sense of it. I felt a little bit better, at least, that I had a definite direction to go when next talking to Sophie-Anne. Now that I was past the events of last night, I felt like I could justify her behavior a little better – not that I was excusing her for it – but, I could imagine that if my favorite people started being killed brutally, I'd have my panties in a wad over it. I definitely didn't approve how she had handled Jodee, but maybe I could prevent such harsh treatment in the future by being a voice against it.

I was pulled out of my reverie by a short knock on the door, which made me jump. I'd been so distracted I hadn't even sensed anyone approaching, so I reached out with my brain and touched the one on the other side of the door. It was a young woman, and she was only thinking about her grocery shopping list, so I saw no harm in opening the door. "Yes?" I asked.

"Miss Stackhouse?"

"That's me. Can I help you?"

She held out an envelope. "This is for you, from Queen Sophie-Anne. She wanted me to deliver it and tell you that she hopes you have a nice day."

I took it from her. "Thanks," I said as the girl nodded and turned to walk away. I shut and re-locked the door, opening the envelope as I walked back to the desk. There were a few pages inside, so I slid them out. The top one was a letter.

Sookie,

I apologize for my behavior last night. As I am sure you can understand, it is alien to me to feel helpless, and the cruelty that is happening on my doorstep has made me feel more helpless than I have in centuries. I do appreciate the magnitude of your great talent and do not wish to squander it by poor manners.

As a token of my gratitude, I have arranged a day spa appointment for you. The brochure is enclosed and I hope you enjoy it. I also took the liberty of making dinner reservations for you and Eric at a very exclusive restaurant here in New Orleans. They have many offerings for couples whose palates are varied.

One more word; Eric Northman is very old and wise. I will not flatter myself by thinking that his interest in you is solely because of my own. I may even go so far as saying that my resident Viking is quite attached to you, even if he will not yet admit it. He was rather adamant in securing your safety and good will when it was not required. You would be foolish to push him away if he seeks to bestow his affection on you. No woman has ever come to regret it, I am sure, in the years he has had and he has quite selective tastes.

I believe your cousin Hadley greatly regrets telling me about your ability and it pains me that I have caused her to worry. Rest assured that you are safe.

QSA

Well blow me down – I had not seen that coming. Was she telling me that she thought Eric had feelings for me? Was that even possible? She had been rather cryptic, but it seemed like she was saying that Eric had been looking out for me from the beginning. Maybe it was out of the goodness of his heart? I chuckled a little to myself and thought back again to last night.

I hadn't realized that such a powerful creature could show such depth of emotion. At first, it was like he was going to eat me alive, but he had been so gentle; there had been a profound look in his eyes from the first moment, like he couldn't believe his luck. I blushed a little, thinking of how he had paid attention to every nook and cranny of my body like he couldn't get enough. Then, afterward, he was playful – tossing me into the cold shower and tickling me. It was fun to see him laugh and smile; he was so serious most of the time. It was like I had been able to see all of him last night; every single facet.

I sat thoughtfully for a moment, then pushed those thoughts away and set Sophie-Anne's letter aside to look through the rest of the contents. Sure enough, the brochure for Le Visage Day Spa was there with a hand-scrawled note across the top telling me a number to call for transportation. I spent about two seconds wondering if I should take advantage, but then reached for the bedside phone to call. It was then that I spotted the note Eric had left for me on the nightstand, so I carried it over to the sofa and sat down to read. Sookie, it said,

I cannot fully express how honored I am to have been the recipient of your affections this night. You are a beautiful and strong woman, and I hope to be given the opportunity to pay homage to your body often.

Since it is Sunday, there will not be a formal "dining" time tonight. If there are sights you want to see, this may be our only opportunity. We will plan concretely when I rise.

Yours, E

I sat back and gazed back over at my vampire. My vampire? I couldn't make myself spare brain resources on that random thought at the moment. I found myself just wanting to spend time with him; I didn't really care what we were doing. I felt that grin on my face again – not my crazy Sookie smile, but an honest-to-God grin – and it hit me. I almost fell off the sofa into the floor.

I'm in love with Eric Northman. Heaven help me – what in God's name am I going to do about that?

Eric's POV

When I rose that evening I rolled over and saw a note where I had left one the previous morning for Sookie. It was short and sweet, just like my telepath: Eric, Sophie-Anne made us dinner reservations for 9:00. I'm getting ready. ~S

I could hear her tinkering around in the bathroom, talking to herself. She would undoubtedly be appalled that I could hear her quiet, private conversation, but I enjoyed it. And, I could only hear her if I really tried, so after a few muttered comments on eyeliner and one or two on the state of her bosom, I tuned her out and began to get myself ready.

First, I barged into Pam's room down the hall and accosted her bathroom for a quick shower. It was a convenient time for her to fill me in on messages that had been received during our rest from my assorted un-undead employees. Then, I received the message about our dining location – Blood Bound – an upscale restaurant that catered to vampire-human couples; my mouth almost watered, imagining what Sookie was going to wear. Pam had been over to get my black suit, and had peeked in on Sookie. She wouldn't give any details, but her pupils were dilated and her fangs were out when she came back.

I was just straightening my tie and admiring myself in the mirror when Pam came to tell me Sookie was ready – I looked pretty fucking good in my monochromatic suit. I had been skeptical when Pam picked it out in the store, muttering, "It's about the fabric, Eric. The fabrics!" when I expressed that skepticism. Good call, Pam. Not that I would ever tell her that – she is enough of a spoiled brat already.

I walked back into Sookie's and my room and caught myself sucking in an unnecessary breath. She was wearing a black satin cocktail dress and her shiny black pumps made me want to ask her to leave them on later. Her hair was pulled back from her face, but fell down her back in golden waves; her blue eyes were sparkling and her lips were pulled back in a smile. "Ready?" she asked.

I crossed the room at vampire speed, stopping right in front of her and making her gasp. I put a hand to her face. "You are a vision, Sookie Stackhouse," I whispered before I kissed her gently. Before I could get too carried away, Pam ushered us out and soon we were seated at a dim table for two. The candlelight was doing wonders with Sookie's skin and I was entranced.

"What are you thinking?" she asked quietly, raising her wine glass to take a sip. It was red wine and for a moment I let myself imagine what it would be like for her to have my blood. The crotch of my pants tightened at the thought of her teeth scraping my skin, her lips pulling as she sucked on my neck. I really hoped she wasn't too sore or tired from last night.

"Do you not get tired of knowing what others are thinking?" I asked with a smirk.

She smiled. "Yes, but I never know what you are thinking. You're quite a mystery, Eric."

"Should I be honest?"

She snorted softly. "Of course!"

As her food was being served, I let a half-grin sneak onto my face. "Have you ever thought of drinking a vampire's blood?" I asked after the waiter had gone, honestly wanting to know the answer.

Her nose wrinkled. "You mean like doing V?"

I shook my head slightly. "It's much different when it's from the source."

Her eyes widened as she realized I meant myself. "I have not," she answered, then paused for a moment before adding a curious, "Why?"

"Well," I began, mentally preparing myself to make my case a good one, "There are many benefits. For one, the vampire would be able to sense you, if you were in trouble, and be able to find you quickly." I knew this would be the most appealing benefit to Sookie, since she wasn't vain. "Many humans also experience heightened senses, for a time; better smell, hearing and vision. I am also told that it clears the complexion and makes one's grooming habits easier."

"And the consequences?" she asked, quirking a brow.

"The vampire could also sense your emotions; if you are happy, or sad." I waggled my brows, "Or lustful. If blood is exchanged a number of times, it creates a bond that is for all of my observations, permanent. I have heard that it is like having a part of the partner inside of you; you can feel them always."

"Does it ever go away?"

"If you have not bonded, it fades over time."

She let that settle in for a moment, taking a few bites of her dinner. Then, she leaned slightly closer to me. "Now that you've given me the politically correct answer, tell me why you really asked."

I grinned. Damn this woman's perceptiveness. "I would feel better if I could sense you. I could help if you were in trouble." I want to feel you every moment I am awake. "We would share a deeper connection, emotionally."

She sat back, pondering. "How many times does it take to make a bond?"

"Three. There is usually some ceremony involved, but it is not necessary."

"Is it painful for the vampire?"

I snorted. Sucking blood, painful for a vampire? "No. It is quite the opposite, honestly."

"How many women have you offered your blood?"

I had not expected that question, although I am not sure why. I thought back over my many years. "There were a few before Pam; but after her, none." This answer surprised her, I saw, so I added, "I am very old, as you know, Sookie; the older the vampire, the more powerful the blood. It is unwise for a vampire as old as I to give our blood to just anyone."

"Does it taste like human blood?"

"I do not know what it tastes like to a human, but in my experience vampire blood is not as metallic as a human's. It is sweeter and thicker, almost like syrup."

She chuckled and muttered, "I'll have that on my pancakes, thanks," to herself. I loved that she forgot I could hear practically everything. She reached for her wine glass and tipped what was left into her mouth, then looked me straight in the eyes. "Are you offering?"

The moment of truth. I nodded slightly. Was I ever.

She looked up and away, as if she was thinking hard. "I'll think about it."

I smiled at her. "Thank you." That was better than no.

We spent the rest of the time at the restaurant talking about New Orleans and what she wanted to see while we were here. I did not want to push the issue, although I had been hoping to get some of my blood in her before her next meeting with Sophie-Anne, which would undoubtedly be Monday night.

After she had eaten dessert and I could hardly think of anything but taking her clothes off, we took our chauffeured car back to the Royal Residence. I was thankful no one bothered us as we walked in and we went straight to our room. That dress had to go.

She turned to shut the door behind us and I pressed her against it, leaning down to kiss the soft spot behind her left ear. "Are you sore from last night?" I asked, running my hands down her body over the soft fabric she wore.

She shook her head and raised her lips to mine, kissing me with tenacity. She slid her arms around my neck and her fingers tangled in my hair, holding me close to her. I unzipped her dress and as it fell to the floor, I could no longer control my body's reaction. I growled, deep in my chest, my fangs sliding down. This woman would be my final death; she was wearing all black lace underneath, including the garter belt attached to nude thigh highs. I pulled her away from the door and spun her around slowly, letting my eyes drink in the sight. Thank the gods for perfect recall; this vision would be reviewed repeatedly, I was sure of it.

Sookie grinned at my reaction, reaching forward to remove some of my clothing. I watched as her fingers moved down the row of buttons on my shirt after she loosed my tie and pulled it off. She pushed her hands under the cloth onto my bare chest as she freed my shoulders; the trails of warmth she left were intoxicating. My belt and slacks hit the floor and she finally tugged my boxers over my straining cock. I moaned when she wrapped her hand around my length and stroked.

Only a few moments later, she took me to the bed and pushed me onto it, dropping to her knees in front of me, high heels and all. Fuck did she look amazing; had I ever known a more beautiful woman? Of course, most rational thought ceased as she lowered her mouth onto me, using her tongue and hands quite effectively. Her eyes stayed locked on mine almost the whole time; finally I couldn't take anymore. I cupped my hand under her chin and pulled her up, flipping her onto the bed as I stood up.

I hovered over her, kissing down her body to undo her garters with my teeth. I took my time, removing each garment carefully – I couldn't rip them all to shreds – and placing them aside. Eventually, I had to take her shoes off although I definitely had plans for them in the future. Then she was naked before me, her pussy glistening with moisture and her eyes dark with desire. Thanks be to the gods.

She scooted up into the bed and I followed her. I lay beside her, slipping a hand down between her legs to get her ready and my tongue dueling with hers. Her fingers ghosted over my body, resting on my shoulders and pulling me closer. Mostly to see her reaction, when I knew she was ready for me, I turned onto my back and guided her to straddle me. She got a sexy grin on her face as she realized what I was doing, and she balanced herself with her hands on my stomach as she eased onto my erection. The feeling of her sliding onto me was pure bliss.

I let her get used to this new position for a while; she pumped herself up and down slowly, experimenting with angles and grinding her hips against me as she got closer to coming. When I sensed that she really was close, I sat up, grabbing her hips and meeting her with a little thrust of my own. She threw her head back and closed her eyes, moaning my name. Our pace became more frantic and hurried as we both slipped toward the edge of release. She leaned back into me, her lips on my neck and face, and I held her close.

The tentative scrape of her teeth on my neck almost sent me spiraling out of control; it was like I could feel her thinking about biting me. I flipped us over so I could push into her more forcefully, leaving my neck close to her mouth. I began to kiss her neck where she knew I would bite, teasing her a little with my fangs. Then, without warning, she bit down in the soft spot where my neck meets my shoulder, sucking as my blood seeped to the surface.

It is an indescribable feeling, the flow of yourself into another being in the form of blood. As I became aware of her emotions, the intensity and timbre of them, I couldn't hold back anymore; I sank my fangs into her neck, coming as her blood spilled into my mouth. She came, too, her hands kneading into my back and my name falling from her red-stained lips. I collapsed onto her, resting my head on her breasts and trembling without realizing it. Her head fell back onto the pillows and her breathing and heartbeat began to settle back into their regular rhythm.

She stroked my hair lazily and kissed the top of my head, her eyes never opening. I slid off of her to rest by her side, still holding her close. "Thank you," I whispered. The act of taking my blood, especially after I had been so candid about it earlier, was probably the greatest show of her trust in me thus far.

She shrugged and as she drifted off into sleep, she said, "It's easy to trust someone you love," with a smile on her face.

Did she just say she loved me? Do I love her, too? Unfortunately, it was much too close to dawn and I slipped under its spell before I could answer my own question.

Hope you have a great day! What do you think happens next?