A/N: Hello, my very patient and kind readers. Please don't kill me. I am so sorry to leave you like that. But I want you to know life had been very busy for me. School, job and relationship, its all take too much of my time. Not to mention my uncle found some of my short original writings on my laptop, and he really liked it. He said he wants me to publish a book, and that he will sponsor me on any of the financial needs, so I'm pretty excited. With all the free time I have, I been doing researches for my book, but don't worry, I will still update once in awhile. I will never give up on this story. So please wish me luck and continue your treasured supports.

I would like to say thanks to all my reviewers, downbelowgirl, The Dead Masquerade, ShiloCoulter, m, Procrastination Possum, KigekiRyuu483, princess moon shadow, odeepblue, Kurox, vanou1991, Sinfulroad69, mixmatched9, Lilly, xoxo 365, DarkAngel620, TT012, tweety, midnightquiver, sam, Franky Sanchez 125, Ali, Jinn, mindy.18, Verbophobic, angel19872006, Rebecca, HoratiosGirl101, norwegian woodd, jenn5780, pietrolove80, Splishboom. I also would like to say thanks to my readers too. you guys are the best.

Disclaimer: nothing you read here belongs to me except for some of the plot and unknown characters you will meet. All belongs to True Blood, an American television drama series created and produced by Alan Ball. It is based on The Southern Vampire Mysteries by Charlaine Harris.

Enjoy!

It's time to forget
This world that you live in
It's time to let go
Of this life that you hold
Don't keep your eyes open for me
You fought a good fight
Now why don't you sleep, sleep, sleep

Well I'll love you forever
Till heaven kisses earth
But I can't keep you hear
It's not what you deserve
You deserve to walk to run to fly
All the things I wanted for you in this life

What I would do for you
To take the pain away
Oh sister, oh my God
What is there left to say?
I'd run a thousand miles
Over sea and land
To find a cure for you
I don't understand
Will you hold my hand?
Help me understand

Black and Blue by Phillip Larue

Chapter Twenty Four - Trouble in Paradise

I let out a long, heavy sigh, slowly striding toward where he sat. I guess I been caught. Really, I don't even know why I kept the stupid letter. I realize now that Helen gave me the letter the day I left home was as a back up plan. Just in case if things didn't turned out as I hoped with Godric. I understand she had the best intentions; after all, she was protecting me in her weird ways. She was giving me a place to run away, a reason to run away, so I don't have to go back home to Steve and Sarah. Yet, part of me also knows I kept the letter because I was still holding onto something.

I slowly took a seat beside the vampire, reaching out to take the cause of this dilemma. He handed me the paper without a protest, while he kept his eyes cast down, staring at his now empty hands. I don't know how to explain this, how to make him understand. I don't know how to find the right words. I get what he must be feeling. Betrayed, deceived, and I don't want to be the cause of his sadness, not for a second. If I could, I wish I could take it all back. All I want to do as long as I'm live is make him happy.

I looked down at the piece of paper, hoping somehow it would speak to me; explain to me why I kept it. I traced the words, running the tip of my fingers over the black ink. I stared at it for what it felt like forever, searching back to my life, trying to decipher the reason behind why and what I was holding on. I can't really say I was holding onto my home, for I don't have a home, well not since dad died anyways. I can't say I was holding onto my life at the Newlin resident, with Sarah and Steve, but there wasn't really any happy memory there. In fact, this letter bring backs many unhappy recollection of Steve trying to dictate my life. Then why? Why did I kept it?

"Anna..." Godric called out, his voice barely hearable, but still enough to break my thought. "You don't have to conceal anything from me, Anna. I understand if you desire to leave, you don't have to reside here with me." He spoke, his voice soft and kind, hiding any sort of sadness he felt.

He reached out to softly coddle my hand with his cold ones, causing me to gaze up into his lovely, silver-blue eyes. The way he was looking at me, the emotions and intensity behind them were turning my stomach in to Jello. The dark shadows around his eyes were making them look brighter, more vivid, contrast to his pale skin.

And just like that… at that instant moment… I knew.

I knew why I was holding onto this stupid letter. It wasn't because of home or Sarah, in fact it had nothing to do with them. It was because I was scared. I was terrified of this devotion and dedication I felt for him since the very moment I met him. And each and everyday, it was getting stronger and stronger, consuming me whole. Every fiber in my body was falling so hard and so fast… I had to hold on into something. It was in my human nature. We don't have wings, and we can't fly. And from the rate I was falling, I had to hold on. It was bless to finally admit this to myself, even though I was frightened of my own emotions.

"I am so sorry I didn't tell you about it sooner, Godric. I was planning on letting you know when the time was right. It just with everything going on lately and it didn't seem that important." I voiced as convincingly and sincerely as possible, holding tightly onto his hand that was in mine. "And no, I don't want to go to Yale. I only kept the letter for a sentimental reason."

I knew I was subconsciously holding onto the letter as a way of escape, a way of reassurance that this piece of paper could get me out of this relationship, or give me a reason to run away from it, not that I have any desire to do that what-so-ever.

"This is your opportunity for a normal life, Anna." He said, moving in his seat, turning his body toward me. "I understand humans' value education. You are a beautiful, young woman, with bright prospect a head of you. And this Yale school could provide you that. I don't want you turning your head away from it because of me." He voiced persuasively, like I was being brainless for rejecting the chance.

"I'm not doing this because of you. Even before I met you, Yale was never my plan. It was all Steve's idea. I just went along with it like a puppet. Godric, I want you to understand, I do see a bright future for myself, right here by your side, and I wouldn't change that for the world. No money, no education could over top that." I moved closer, pulling both of my legs onto the bed. Sure, I got into Yale's pre law program, but seriously, I can't even imagine myself becoming a lawyer. Even in some miracle I was able to succeed, I would be the worse lawyer ever with my timid and unassertive personality.

"But—" He started; only to be stopped by my finger pressing against his soft lips, preventing his unsaid argument.

"No buts, Godric. I am happy here with you. The happiest I have ever been in a very long time. And I am not going anywhere, not without you." I told him with a satisfied smile on my face. There was a gap of a moment as he gazed into my eyes, striving to search the truth in my statement. I traced the shape of his lips, feeling the soft and cool texture beneath my finger tip. His lips were so tempting and inviting… I couldn't help but move forward, pressing a soft feathery kiss to his cool forehead, moving to the tip of his nose, before finally reaching to kiss those soft, alluring lips.

I pulled back slightly to find his eyes closed. "Trust me, Godric, I'm content here." I voiced moving back, before folding the letter down the middle and cleaving it to pieces. Godric's eyes seem to open at the sound of the ripping paper, as he stared at the tiny parts of the epistle fall from my hands.

"You shouldn't have done that." He said his voice going lost and concerned. "It was your chance to get out. To get away from me because once I…" He paused for a second, shaking his head as if to get rid of the conflicting thoughts that were clashing in his head. "Because once I claim you, I'm never letting you go."

I couldn't help but turn red, blushing by his words. Claim? What the hell did he mean by that? I wonder if it's some sort of sexual thing, because it sounded sexual to me.

"That's fine by me, Godric. All I want to do is stand by your side. You make me a better person everyday, when I'm by you." I voiced warmly, cupping his cheeks with both of my warm hands. He averted his eyes letting out a long sigh before he whispered, "you don't know what you're saying." He replied with a low voice.

I moved resting on my knees, so I was kneeling on the bed beside him. My hands that were cupping his cheeks moved to his neck, feeling his cool skin, while my other hand glided to his soft hair, grasping his short locks, pulling on to it, so his head was tilted back. "Yes I do," was all I could murmur, gazing into his dazed eyes. I wasn't sure who moved first, but his lips met mine again, but this time it wasn't the gentle, lingering touch of his lips. No, this kiss was wet, deep and intoxicating, as his tongue met mine. I could feel the kiss spreading through my body, charged with electricity and laced with amnesia, as I savored his sweet like honey taste. His hands moved to my waist, slowly running up and down my back. I don't know how long we kissed, but I was the one to pull back, breathing hard and heavy.

There was a pause of a moment, as I tried to calm my heart that was thumping against my ribs. "You know I have everything figured out." I voiced taking in a beep breath, and seating back down.

"I'm going to university of Dallas this September. I have been accepted there a while ago, it was supposed to be my back up plan, so don't be concerned about my education." It wasn't something I thought very well, but it had crossed my mind quite often. I just never imagine I would get the chance to actually act upon it. Not even in my wildest dreams I ever thought I would meet someone like Godric, and actually rebel against Steve's stupid lawyer plan.

"I'm going to become a teacher. Don't know if I told you this but, my mother was a 5th grade Science teacher. And I wanna be like her." I couldn't help but chuckle bet at the thought of such thing.

"Well, I want to be a kindergarten teacher to be specific, but still a teacher." I have never told anyone about this except Dad, and it felt good to share it with someone I care so profoundly about, someone whose opinions actually matter to me. This was something I honestly see myself doing. I think I would be great at it. Besides, if I stay would Godric, I know I have no chance of having my own children.

"A teacher, huh?" He smiled as if almost picturing me lecturing little kindergartens. "If that's what you wish, then I'll stand by your side, too." He replied sweetly using my own words. I couldn't help but grin until my cheeks hurt, pulling him forward to give him a big hug. Finally, someone who supports me, no matter what I want to do with my life.

"Now, we got that out of the way, how about we clean up the smoothie misfortune, huh? Maybe we can watch a movie afterwards." I got up not waiting for his respond. He raised his eyebrow quizzically, probably wondering my sudden change in mood. "Well, come on." I grabbed his arm, pulling on to it. Even though with all the strength he possessed, he let me drag him behind. "You didn't expect me to clean all the mess you made now, did you?" He shook his head no, with a tag at the corner of his lips.

It wasn't long before we both started on our chores. Godric moved around wiping the sticky mess with paper towel, as I mopped the floor. "So, what movie do you wanna watch?" I question still focusing on my current task. "I'm not quite familiar with any of the contemporary films." He voiced from where he stood, wiping the toaster which was tarnish by my drinkable meal.

"Well, we don't have to watch any of the latest movies. I'm actually a fan of black and white movies. Oh! Oh! Oh! How about we watch 'Dracula' the 1931 version?" I proclaimed excitedly, wanting to show him where I first learned all of my fictitious knowledge on vampires. He raised eyebrow for the second time in fifteen minute, his eyes bright and playful. "I'm certain it will be rather interesting watching human depict of vampires." He replied mockingly.

"Hey, don't diss my Dracula. He's awesome. You're just jealous cause' I like him better." I voiced teasingly, sticking my tongue at him. The next thing I know, there was a WHOOSH sound and he was right in my face, scaring the bejesus out of me. His fingers speedily shot up, grabbing the tip of my tongue in a pinching motion. "Are you sure you don't like me better?" He questined in a whisper, smiling widely. I attempted to speak, but it came out jumbled up, so I hurriedly tried to bit on his fingers, but he was quicker in letting me go. His hand, in the same vampire speed, wrapped around my waist, pulling me swiftly to him, my chest pressing against his.

"Never! Nothing like a vampire who is terrified of garlic, and who can turn in to a Bat, not to mention the accent and the cape are totally the cherry on top." I declared only to pause for a second, "wait, you do have a cute accent…hmm, maybe we can get you a cape." I voiced sounding thoughtful. His face turned appalled, "absolutely not." He said making me let out a laugh. Not just to his reaction, but also to the newly images my head was forming Godric in a cape. We continued discussing our interest in movies, laughing as we clean thoroughly. Within 20 minute, Godric and I were able to return the kitchen back to its original form.

Since I was tired and hungry, with my dinner being ruined, I did the only thing I could do… call room service. I ordered there specialty for tonight, Skillet Chicken with Yellow Rice, with the operator's recommendations of course. I set up my food by the coffee table, while sitting on the carpet in-between Godric's legs, who was sitting on the couch with a Trublood in his hand. I picked up the remote and turned on the TV. I was a bit taken back when the first thing I saw was my sister's face on the screen, preaching on a late night TV. This wasn't there usual time of preaching, so I didn't change the channel right away, waiting and wondering if she was going to say something ridiculous as me being kidnapped again.

"Since our book 'Living Alive' became the best book seller. People have been coming from all over the world to talk to Steve and I about our pro-living values. They talked about how hard it is to raise a family when there is dark temptation everywhere. It seems like that they're telling us that the vampire lifestyle is cool or trendy. We moral mortals are somehow yesterday's news. At the movies, young girls are going crazy over handsome teen vampires. Rock stars are singing about getting high on vampire blood. Well I'm here to tell you, there is nothing cool and trendy about evil. It's as old as the serpent tempted eve, as old as Delilah tempting Samson, as old as Eason who was tempting to seal his own birthright for some little itsy bitsy morsel food. But there is good news. God doesn't want you to be frumpy or un-cool. No, he wants you to feel good, and be good—" I cut her off by changing the channel. Even though I was starving, after watching that, I can't help but lose my appetite. I coat the food back in its silver plate cover, hoping maybe I might be able to eat it later.

I was a bit disappointed on how fired up and passionate she sounded from the way she talked. It's seem like she was right back on Steve's web, tangling herself in his chaos and issues. And I had the best seat in the house, the living room couch. The vampires hand moved under my chin, tilting my head up, so it was resting backwards on his knees.

"Anna, I know you are disappointed in your sister, and yet you miss her very much." I try to protest, denying his accurate assumption, but he quickly cut me off. "Don't forget about the blood-bond, I know how you feel. It is alright to discuss this with me." He reassured me kindly.

"I know, it's just doesn't make things easier being able to watch her face everyday, but not being able to sway her." It was frustrating, feeling guilty like I abandoned her when she needed me, even though deep inside I know that wasn't true. I have done well by her, and tried my best, but it still wasn't enough.

"You still feel responsible to protect her, but you have to know she is not a child. She made her own decisions and choices." Godric spoke, his fingers brushing my hair. I leaned sideways using his knees as a pillow. "I know, I know, but she is still my sister." He didn't need to tell me, I have already learned my lesson. But I still feel obligated because she is still blood.

The vampire bent down, sliding his hands behind my back and under my lap, lifting my tiny frame like I was a toddler onto the couch. He tucked me closer by his side. "Hmm, your birthday is coming up; perhaps, you would like to spend it with her, as family?" He questioned sympathetically.

"What? No." I shook my head, refusing the idea. "This year it's just you and me." I replied. Besides, Sarah's idea of birthday is always the same. She always throws me a surprise party, which is never a surprise because I know what's coming every year. Since I didn't have much of friends, she will invite random people from church, and we'll have an awkward gathering. "Are you sure?" Godric queried one more time. This year was going to be different.

"Of course, maybe we can go out to dinner or something, like on an official first date." It's amazing, we haven't even been on one date, but we act more like a couple than any one I know. Not to mention I already share a bed with the guy, and we have made out like uncountable times. The vampire beside me let out a few chuckles, "I'm sure it will be delightful." He replied pulling back, and gently shifted the both of us around so that they were sitting with me leaning sideways against his chest. He brushed the fringe of slightly damp curls away from my eyes and then securely wrapped his arms back around me. I quietly searched the Dracula movie on the TV, using the remote control. The good things about living in a hotel room, you can order any movies you want right on the TV.

OMG! The song at the top reflects perfectly on the three parts of this chapter. The first tiny paragraph is about Anna, letting go on what she was holding on. The second part is about Godric wanting to let her go because he feels she deserves better. The last part is about the relationship between Anna and Sarah. How Anna wants the best for her sister. It's perfect!

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