Hey There,

Welcome back Quoganites! I know this isn't my usual Thursday post, but it is still time to party! Because the day that I AM posting this just so happens to Erin's Birthday! So Quinn's birthday! YAY! And what better way to celebrate then to share Chapter TEN of this crazy Halloween Monster Mash, and we're getting to the nitty gritty of this story now! I can't believe this started the Halloween before last and we're still going strong! But even more than that I can't believe anyone ever clicked on it, and gave it a chance. So BLESS all of you! For even giving it a chance! It means the world to this little authoress, truly! Let's get started!

Standard disclaimers apply - I don't own Zoey 101, Zoey 102, Nickelodeon, MTV, or any of the other trademarked things mentioned. I am merely borrowing all of these things for my own twisted spooky plots and most will be returned unharmed. But everyone's monsters so…. Let's just HOPE for the best!

Special thanks to the few of you who have added this story, to your favorite story list or story alert list. Also special thanks to the few of you who have began following me, as a writer, placed me on your author's alert or favorite author's list. It's high praise that I hope I'm still earning.

Special thanks to my reviewer: syduction (Hi! Thank you so much, for such a warm welcome to a new year! And welcome back to this fandom. It's a trip isn't it? When you're away for a bit? Glad you're here and already contributing to the fandom as well. AMAZING! I have been working on this so I haven't had time to read it yet, but I plan to after I post! We need more dedicated writers like you here, so I'm totally thrilled to welcome you! Hope you'll feel welcome and write all kinds of new treats for us! And my goodness! Thank you so much for what you said! That means the world! I will work on these till they're done, I'll never quit! And I update one of these Quogan stories every Thursday, when I can, usually [ I can't always but I always try]! And I jump around between all four of my on-going stories. So it's never boring for me and hopefully you readers either. I try so hard to nail everyone's perspectives. It means so much when a diehard says I did that! Bless you! I can't thank you enough! I hope you're still reading, enjoying, and having a GREAT day! Take Care and Much Love!)

I also want to give thanks to my bestie Awkwardgurl05 for her endless support, her interactive reviews, gab sessions, and friendship! You're the best, girl! I can't not mention you!

Dedicated to Erin Sanders for her MARVELOUS portrayal of Quinn Pensky! Happy birthday to both the actress and the unforgettable character she brought to life! Such a Queen, she deserves the absolute BEST And I hope she feels celebrated! And that she'll have many, many more!

Enjoy!

"Monster Movie Mayhem"

Chapter 10 - While the Doc is AWAY…

((Lola-vira's Perspective))

I have the best group of monsteresses and monsters in the WORLD! As friends, as family, and most are currently under this roof with me… you know, what's left of the roofs.

My creepy crawly exes all started getting all bent outta shape about my new relationship. The moment it became public because I'm so happy. That I'm officially off the market for any of them to mess around with anymore. They didn't even care honestly, till I was off limits, the louts and lowlives!

But I'm in love, unapologetically! So I've cleared the bench, and I'm meeting Vince's family pack sometime after this party wraps… He's the first to WANT to make plans like, this with me. After one of my parties… All the other flea and say, 'I had a nice time, but so long!'

Vince isn't just pretending either. He's so genuinely excited to show me off! Me! The party queen of the underworld! Hostess with the Mostest… and not the best rep. But that sweet wolf-turned-puppy dog loves me too… I believe that… and I almost want this party to end that much sooner. Just to start this new chapter with him.

I'm so happy I don't even care what party happens next. Which is usually all that occupies my time when one of these things ends… Where will I go next and how much hell can I raise there!?

Not this time! So HAPPY!

I'm now giving all my attention and focus to one wolfman. Who's captured my heart, and I've got the claw marks to prove it! I really love him… every bit of him human or wolf. And only wish all monsters were as happy as we are.

But before I get carried off with all of my thoughts of my Lucan howler. Who has big plans for us tonight (he was away all day helping Quinn and James in the labs, daytime hours he's all MINE today).

I got notified by my head assistant bat, that my bestie Count Dracula is apparently trying to reach me via porthole. Which isn't all that strange, he's been doing that from outside the castle all day. Letting me know, he was personally taking care of things. But I'd heard all those missions had ended a couple of hours ago…

I didn't expect to find my beastly bestie not even NEAR my castle anymore. But back at his own, but there he was in his underground chambers. Looking like a King for all Vampires on the viewing wall.

I said, "Dracula, darling! I didn't know you were planning on skipping out so soon? How is it that you're all the way home and didn't even say goodbye?! Does our doctor know about this?"He'd better not be running away from feelings or anything stupid like that. Or have messed up things when he knows how timid our resident MAD scientist's heart is. I will personally go to Transylvania right now JUST to drag him back here with my own claws!

But thankfully that wasn't the case and he informed me. "Of course, Quinn knows! She's the whole reason I came back here to this hellhole, it's all about her. And she's here with me-"

"She's not in her labs?!" I had no idea. I thought she'd just snuck out the back and to that goudy bench I never liked out back. What an eyesore! But the doc always sits there and even used to eat there some times. So she must like it, though I have no clue why.

Dracula went on, "No, not right now. She needed to get outta there. She felt like she couldn't breathe in that place anymore-"

I had to interrupt him and say, "Good! I had been noticing her sounding and looking more and more run-down or strangled by the stress… We have professionals for that. But what about the storm progress!? Do we have time for such a trip?!"

"It's still far enough away where it'll still be days till it's there." He assured, then Drac promised. "I'll have her back after sundown, today. But I'm keeping her here with me, till then. She needs to get away, even for just these few hours Lola."

"No, I get it!" I hope I assured him. "I'm glad you got her! Sincerely! I am!"

"I'm patching her through to Jamestein as we speak and she's reminding him of all the lab things that need to happen during the daylight hours… Even though he's been running the lab, during the day for ages."

I had to laugh, "That's our doc! She thinks of everything, doesn't she?" I laughed along, watching him cut his eyes over to a spot off in the distance. Probably where he can see her, and he gets this look on his face… He may be a ferocious monster, feared throughout all the realms… but that look is universal. That's a man in total love with someone.

I couldn't be more thrilled for him, FINALLY seeing that look on his face. After too many years of seeing him alone, lost, and lonely… always so damn lonely. This was SUCH a payoff. And as thrilled as I am I know all the retired Draculas are even more elated.

He'd gotten so caught up looking at her he forgot the question I'd asked. So I just told him simply, "Love looks good on you, my bestie. Enjoy this downtime, she's not gonna have tons of it when Mona's up and living. I'm amazed you've gotten so much so quickly with Lydia's slowed progress."

"I know," Drac had said like he already missed her. But he openly shared with me, "Part of this trip is me trying to convince that she should come with me. When you're party ends-"

I was jumping up and down in my seat, "To you rundown Trannsylvannian digs?! The ones I couldn't stand to be in even a single NIGHT!? Cause they were too dead and quiet?!"

"Yeah, that is MY castle." He said before muttering curses under his breath. He explained even better. "I've never liked living here… but if they all came with me and we made this place ours… not just mine… It could change my mind about it. Watching these patchworks grow together, maybe even fall for each other here-"

"NOPE! That happened here in my CASTLE, so did you falling for the doc. The first time you saw her, I was there and you called her 'beautiful' the moment you saw her." I was not letting him claim any of them fell in love there, when it was really here and under my watchful eye in MY palace. Bestie or not! I also wasn't forgetting how BOTH these people wouldn't let me match them up and STILL ended up with each other... and that's exactly who I would have matched them up with! I KNEW they'd be perfect for one another!

He said, "Yeah yeah, I would have fallen for her any place though. I just so happened to be standing in your castle at the time and she had to be climbing off of her bike." He smirked, not wanting to relent but knowing he HAD to. Priceless!

"Okay, okay! You got me!" He admitted.

"You're welcome my beastly bestie. But quit yakking my ear off and get back to wooing your woman. I'll see you after sunset, and you better not dawdle, cause I'll sent troops to retrieve you if you're too late."

"Troops?" He had to ask, "Just what kinds of lackeys would you send?"

"Well, I don't know yet, but if you're terribly late I'll definitely be sending something TERRIBLE to retrieve you both." I threatened wishing this threat carried more heat.

Especially when Drac went, "Ooow, I'm so worried."

"You should be, you know how nearly every well-known monster is at my disposal!" I tried to sound more intimidating. But I think I came off more comical… curses!

Cause Drac laughed and said, "See you then bestie." Before he signed off and my wall was just a wall again. I hoped, in my little blackened heart of hearts that he would be successful. He had no idea and neither did Quinn that I had been hoping for this from the beginning. The moment he called her 'beautiful'… Even though I was contractually obligated to never match them up… that I had matched them up. And they'd better not sue!

I hoped that Logan could convince Quinn, to be with him. She could really help him build a real home and family. The one BOTH of them have been missing all of their lives! And maybe, just maybe that was because they couldn't do it or weren't meant to till they were together.

I've slowly watched them bring out the best in each other. A little more everyday, and it's like how did we not see it sooner? How was there a time before this? I still don't know, but I hope with all my heart that there is never a time like that ever again. When two people love each other so much, they shouldn't have to ever be apart again. They should be together and happy and all living or undead things should be happy if they can.

Vince pulled me effectively out of my prayers and train of thought. Pressing a kiss to my exposed shoulder from behind and whispering against my skin. "Are you mine yet?" As he dragged his claws in a tickling lightness across my waistline. Making me giggle and smile.

I grabbed onto him by reaching behind me and told him, "I'm always yours, now and forever my scruffy wolfman."

And with that he'd pulled me to my bedroom and left off the lights. And everything after that remains blissfully between me and him. But anyone who can be as happy as I am with my Lucan lunatic, should be. Plain and simple.

(James-stein's Perspective)

I know I've said from the very beginning…

That I don't mind what Lydia decides to label me as in her life. That still stands I swear, it does…

Whether it's her friend or her family, her sibling, her cousin, maybe even her distant cousin… or if she sees me as a romantic love option.

I will be happy with whatever she decides.

I just want to be some part of her life, always. I want to share with her, cheer her on in everything that she does. I want to be with her, whenever she wants me around… Whatever capacity she's comfortable with… I'll be alright with too! I just wanted someone like me, to share my endless time with.

I know… that has been my mindset, long before I'd even gone to Lola-vira for help. Long before I met Dr. Quinn or any of Lydia's lovely stitchings had occurred to make her up.

But that was before she lived…

Before she breathed…

And before she was standing in front of me. With her own opinion, her own voice that was so clear.

Whether it's spoken or signed.

Before she was even blueprints or a drawing on a board or sheet of paper. I had no way of knowing long before she even lived that she would be the most beautiful living thing I'd ever seen.

It was before I knew a heart could ache… with hope, just as much as it could with pain. That the two are so easily confused! I didn't know that was possible.

I had no way of knowing that Lydia would be able to look at me like she does. With those electric blue eyes of hers that always glow even long after her birth. I hope they always will shine like that!

She looks at me with this expression… I can't name it…

I've never seen anything like it before…

But I don't think it's hate. Or disgust, I know all too well what those look like, on any face, and it doesn't feel the same…

I don't know what it is… But I feel like I can't hide a thing from her. I can't lie, she'll see right through. I feel kinda naked, even though I know I'm not. I checked, and no. But her eyes make me feel that way.

And I don't hate it… I somehow still want her to keep looking at me… even though I'm so confused by it.

But enough about my personal conundrums with my own feelings versus logic! On to subjects that aren't such ongoing enigmas!

Doctor Quinn had been worrying me so much all day. I think I was more relieved than even she was, when she'd told me she was gonna step outside for some fresh air. I reminded her of the castle's current lock-down, and she waved me off and went outdoors anyways.

I think I would be more worried about the beast that tried to cross her, than the other way around. But I still glanced out there and checked on her a couple of times while she caught her breath.

Till Lydia signed to me, that she would keep an eye on her. So I could keep checking on Mona and Raph. Mo was doing great now and Raph was pretty much a big wreck till the storm arrived. He was spending every minute, doing everything he could to help her… the same exact way I had when Lydia was lying there. Only Lydia had loved to hear me read Edgar Allen Poe's works. While Mona appeared to love Raph reading her recipes and cookbooks... But to each their own.

Lydia waved me down to sign that Quinn was crying outside. But when I almost rushed over there to see for myself, she kept signing and told me "Dracula's with her." So I realized, she was in the best of care and I should leave them to it. But as I stayed away from the window after that, to give them their privacy… Lydia was fully watching them interact through the lab window. And I had to say firmly, "Lydia… Don't do that."

And she signed back, "So cute, it makes my heart beat faster!"

And I told her, "It's rude to stare, at them, like that."

But she came and sat next to where I was working. Crossing her legs right in my peripheral vision, next to my face.. and signed in that same line of sight. "But we stare at each other all the time… and that's not rude."

I told her, "That's different."

She signed and said aloud, "How?"

How do I explain this… I stopped what I was doing and focused on that one freckle under right eye. I tried to explain, "When you're looking at someone and their looking back-"

She leaned in, forcing me to shift my line of sight to her eyes, and made me maintain eye contact the whole time with those glowing blue eyes. And I paused, before remembering what I had been saying. "It's like a silent conversation sometimes."

"That's what I thought," she signed.

I went on making my point, "But when you're watching two people as they interact, who aren't talking to you, and they don't know you can see them, that's wrong. Especially if these two people are probably having a private conversation. That's the rude part… and people who love each other the way they do… Well, it is usually personal. Which is a lot worse-"

"Why?" She asked outloud.

"Cause people in love usually require a lot more quiet and private time to be together." I had to get up and walk away from her. She was too beautiful! It was messing with my mind and I really needed to make sure Mona's brain and heart were still ready for the storm and birth. And everything about Lydia calls to me and distracts me!

But Lydia followed me and chose now to start speaking instead of signing. Knowing I can't NOT listen.

She said, "You know we spend lots of times together… alone… or together."

"We do," I pretended to only half hear her, but even Mona's readings were up from hearing Lydia speak out loud. How could I ever dream to downplay her.

Lydia pressed on, "You also tell me you love me every morning when we go to sleep and every night when we get up too."

"Because I do love you, Lyds." I said as I finished writing down all the hourly data so Quinn can look over it when she gets back. It feels like she was gone seconds and the next thing I knew. She was appearing on a wall, via porthole and telling me that Dracula had taken her somewhere off-site. Some place he wants her to consider as a possible safe haven when this party ends.

Just to make sure everything stayed on point, in her absence she went over all of the steps with me. One more time, even though I think I have them all memorized now. Raphael spoke up and reminded Quinn, "But James and Lydia both haven't rested much either and I've been asleep most of the night. Why don't they rest during the daytime and I'll cover that shift instead."

Quinn was all for it but I did have to ask my brother after the call ended. "Why did he do that?"

And he said, "I want some bonding time with my girl just as much a Lydia wants it with you."

I told him, with certainty, "Lydia doesn't want that."

And he said, "Trust me bro… I may not know everything but baby girl is DYING for some alone time with you. Look at her!"

And when I looked back at her… she looked so sad as she hugged Mona. Telling her "Goodnight" and "she already loves her as a sister."

Then she hugged Raph and Said, "Goodnight, big brother! I love you!"

And he hugged her back, before telling her to "go get ready so James can tuck you in."

She turned back and pinned me in place with those eyes and pouted. "You're not coming to bed?"

But Raph said, "He wasn't going to, but I told him to get some sleep. I'll take good care of Mona."

Lydia's pout deepened and she told me matter-factly. "I won't sleep if you're not there."

"I'll be there, just go get changed." I tried to shoe her, so that I could review the steps with Raph one more time. For writing down all of Mo's data.

But Lydia had other ideas, she insisted, "I already did all that! I'm ready now! Let's GO!" She latched onto my wrist and dragged me behind her, powerless to deny her anything she wants. I glared at Raph and reminded him of the steps over my shoulder while he waved us off. I know he only did all of this for time to cuddle his own girl creation…

But Lydia may never be mine, just as Mo may wake up and want nothing to do with any of us. That's always a possibility! And Quinn says it's even happened several times to her creations. It could happen to me sooner than I'm ready for. So I'm trying my damnest to be ready for it…

But even as she pulls on me, tugging me along behind her. I want her to never stop bringing me along with her and I hope I never have to live a single day without her with me again… even I will do whatever she wishes. When the time comes and she tells me what I am to her. Even if it kills me her happiness is the most important thing to me now… and if that's leaving her alone I will… I just hope with all my heart that's not the case.

((Lydia's Perspective))

Everyone thinks I'm so young, so dumb, like a little baby trapped in a grown up body.

But what really is happening is my brain and body know things. Because they've lived before, they're all just new to me, and I don't know what I know till it's brought up. You see? So I'm not as oblivious as everyone seems to think and Quinn's the ONLY one whole seems to know this.

While my James and big brother Raph had been talking to my creator. And I could see her reminding them of Mona's scans and charts.

Another silent porthole had appeared on the wall facing me. Right where I always sit in my makeshift classroom at the back of doc's labs. Where all my classes and lessons take place, I had been sitting and reading quietly. The person on my wall was Count Dracula. He'd appeared and signed to me a private message he only wanted me to hear.

He'd signed, "You told me you wished so much everyone would leave you two alone. Just for one day and let you tell James how you really feel about him. Well, now's your chance to do that."

He also said, he was "Keeping the doc with him today, far away. And they wouldn't be back till nightfall!" So my classes wouldn't be till nighttime either, most likely. Plenty of time to rest or show my James that I want him to be mine and no one else's.

So the moment I had his wrist in mine, I was intent on not letting him go till he was convinced. But I think only I knew that!

Because the whole way there, my James was either yelling back at his brother. Or he was asking me if I'd remembered to do everything before bed. Like recharging myself, brushing my teeth, brushing out the tangles in my hair, and completing my required reading for the day. No matter how I assure him of all of these things, every night.

He still asks, every night. And I'm starting to wonder who's the baby here!

Till finally tonight I turned to him right in front of my bedroom door and told him. Using my voice, "YES! I'm not a child!"

He looked surprised but agreed with me, "You're not, I'm just trying to help."

I asked him, "Did you get ready for bed yet?"

He said honestly, "no." Then admitted, "I thought I would be needed in the labs tonight, till Raph kicked me out."

I pulled him down to my level, why had his creator made him SO tall?! And I told him, "I won't sleep without you! I couldn't last night!" Why is my voice so loud?

He shushed me and cautioned, "Not so loud." But he was grinning the entire time.

I pinned him easily against the wall and told him in sign language, "You go get ready, and meet me back here. No funny stuff, I need to ask you a few things too, or I definitely won't sleep."

And he signed as he spoke… and laughed. "Yes ma'am, I'll come right back."

I could have done without the laugh, so I signed, angrily. "You better!"

But he laughed as I went in my room and shut the door. He took so long showing up that I was about to track him down. But he walked in that very moment and leaned against the door when it closed behind him. He asked me, "Why aren't the covers turned down? Why aren't you settling in?"

And I signed, "Because I can't rest, something's bothering me."

He signed and spoke, "Are you okay? Are you sick?"

"No, no, it's nothing like that…" I trailed off before I decided on my line of questions and began.

I asked him, in my speaking voice, "Is there something wrong with me?"

His face was funny, as he repeated, "What do you mean 'wrong with you?'"

I spelled out for him as I came closer, "Am I ugly?"

He didn't hesitate, "No! Why would you even think that?"

"Am I too small, too thin, too short, or just not the right type of monster?" I asked before, he locked his eyes on me.

He asked angrily, "Where are these questions coming from, did someone call you all of these things?"

"No," I answered honestly. But explained, "These are all the reasons Lola-vira said some people just don't love each other." Then I offered him my wrist and asked, "Do I smell bad? Is my skin and stitchings too dry, or scratchy? Am I too dumb? Too young, and inexperienced? Tell me, I can take it?"

He took a whiff of my wrist and kissed it, "You don't stink and your skin is soft… but some may not like your stitchings cause they don't have any-"

"But you do." I pointed out as he still held my forearm.

And he grinned at me, "I do, so I don't mind them at all, I think they make you that much more beautiful. Quinn took great pains to make your stitchings discreet as lace, and just as pretty."

So I asked the question that has been eating me alive since before my first breath. "Then why don't you love me?"

He still leaned against the door turned to face me and lie, "I do love you, Lydia."

"No, you don't!" I told him, "When you say you love me you mean all the ways… and when I say I love you, it's only ONE way. And I wish I knew how to make you see that." I felt lighter, finally getting those words out but tears rolled down my cheeks too. The words had somehow hurt coming out.

James wiped my tears with his sleeves first, and when my face was as dry as he could get it. Then he explained, "I don't want to corner you or trap you into saying or meaning anything you don't. I wanted you to freely, naturally choose for yourself, what you feel for me. I would never hurt you, not for anything, but it looks like I did anyways. Being too distant, and I'm so sorry Lyds."

He kissed my forehead and somehow made it stop pounding. Then he hugged me tight and I said, "I want you to love me the same way I love you."

And he asked me a question, that made everything in his body tense around me. Because he had still been hugging me when the question came out. He'd asked, "How do you love me?"

And I stepped outta his hold and looked at his face, trying to understand what made him so tense. But looking at his face I realized, he wasn't just scared… he was terrified. And that's why he's been acting like this… it was all outta fear. He's been worried about what I would say... and I hoped my answer, was the one that he wanted.

I don't know what came over me, but I took his face and neck in both of my hands. I pulled him down to my level and I put my lips against his. The same way I've seen so many couples kissing throughout the castle.

I had been wondering, how do they get stuck that way. But no one told me about the fireworks that go off behind your eyelids. Or how it's the most alive you'll ever feel, even better than a recharge. It wasn't long, it couldn't be! Because I couldn't breathe. Not just because I needed to figure out how to breathe, but I felt crazy overwhelmed!

And my poor James just fell the rest of the way to the floor. Scaring me to death, I though I'd killed him with my kiss, like a poison ivy sort of thing (I've read about her, but I didn't think Quinn would forget to mention my kisses were toxic, like that).

But then my James started shaking with laughter, as he laid flat on his back on my floor. And I smacked him asking him, "What's funny about scaring me to death."

But his hands caught my sides and he yanked me down on top of him. So that my face was just hovering over his face and he smiled HUGELY with his eyes still closed. And he admitted, "I have been wanting to do that since the first time I saw your lips… And I haven't… I waited for you to figure out how you want me to be a part of your world… and you kissed me-"

I brushed some of his hair outta his eyes and told him point blank. "You took too LONG! You would have left me waiting forever."

He admitted, "I was afraid of scaring you off-"

"You almost did, cause I thought you didn't like me." I said, as I climbed more comfortably on top of him. And he made these noises that made me ask him, "Did I hurt you?"

And he said, "No-no, get comfortable." Then he said, "I don't like you, I love you so much! But I didn't want you to feel like I forced you into anything you weren't ready for." Then he tugged me ever closer and whispered, "Can we try that again?"

I asked innocently, "Try what again? I don't know WHAT you could mean?" So much sarcasm.

But he ended my teasing with one word, as he leaned our foreheads together. "Please?"

I whispered back, "Why don't you try kissing me this time?"

And just like that, in a blink, he was up and carrying me with him. Over to the bed saying, "This can't happen on the floor it would be entirely too mean." Then he laid me across the bed leaned down over top of me and kissed me. This time I wrapped my arms around him and he's hands were glued to the curve of my back. And I breathed through my nose, and this time the fireworks were way brighter and louder behind my eyes. I never wanted this to end…

But just so we're clear I told him when we did stop and I could breathe. "I - I Lo-Love You… You're my James… and I want to always keep you with me… can you keep me with you?"

And he'd looked into my eyes and said, "I love you too, Lydia… And your so much more than I could have ever asked for."

And I secretly prayed everyone found this kind of safety and love with someone. Because I could not imagine my life without this monster in it… and I didn't want to.

(Dr. Quinn's Perspective)

Logic tells me, I should be scared right now. Even if I'm not…

Even as insane as I am, I can be very rational in spurts, I've always thought that. But right now, I know it's illogical to be as complacent as I am!

I am perfectly alone with Count Dracula in his castle. A Lair passed down for generations of vampire kings for trapping drinking from their prey. I didn't want to know how many lovely ladies had been lured here, and it was the last thing they'd seen. I didn't want to know how many had been lured by this same vampire either. It would send me into a panicked mania!

A jealous one! But mania, no less! So I tried my best not to think of this person's long list of past interests. I told myself anyone's past looked colorful compared to mine. Where I really only had one long-term relationship and even that had been a waste of MY energy and completely one-sided!

Not only has Logan already bitten me, but he's openly admitting that his whole reason for bringing me here… is to convince me. When Lolavira's party ends, sometime soon, he wishes for me, and all patchworks attached to me right now. To all relocate here, to his castle, and stay here for their growing and teaching stages.

Even though he knows far more than just these current four patchworks are attached to me. I've created far more than just these two female humanlike representations. Even though I have mentioned several times that this could take years and years of study. Decades even of prep and schooling. For every patchwork I've created has always been unique from any other.

The Vampire King is resolved to keep them around, and me as well.

He is also completely open about me being the KEY reason for this offer. Not because he's a King and likes having rule over me either. And even though I see how pushy and domineering his family of former Kings and Queens are. He's determined to not let any of them pressure me… he wants to date and spend even more time with me. Getting to know me, even though I feel like I already know him somehow… It never feels like we've just met, it feels like there wasn't a time before we knew each other… Even if that was the case mere weeks ago.

The even crazier part is… I'm seriously considering this.

But this place… the place we're in right now… It's truly beautiful. And unlike any place I've ever seen or been in before. Don't tell her this but Lolavira's castle is nothing to it nothing at all!

Logan swears he hates it here and he's never felt at home in this place…

But if he didn't have any hope in it, he wouldn't have brought me here. He wouldn't even be trying to show it to me. It has real potential, I know we could make it into something GREAT….

Together, we really could.

And not just okay either, but AMAZING! Like no one's ever seen before, not even all of his vampire retired royal family. Even they would be impressed…. You know, besides the uniting forces of the Mad Scientist and Vampire sides. That in itself would be something.

But no, we could really change this place. Maybe even change our world, coming together on this endeavor.

That should be where my thoughts were, I know it… But my brain, for once, wasn't the loudest internal organ making demands. Those louder declarations were coming from my heart and that's probably all Tobais's Fault.

But these demands were all about Logan. Not Dracula… not king of the vampires… but Logan, the person, not even the monster but him as a being. And I couldn't wait to get back to him, to see what the rest of today would be like. Here with him, since we've started spending these daylight hours resting together. Every single night is different, like a new adventure… I've never had a friendship or relationship like this before.

But the moment I ended the porthole call with James and Raph. The second I was no longer seeing my lab and all of the work still waiting there for me. Dracula was right beside me cool and smooth as glass asking me, "All finished."

And I had to make an effort not to jump, and remain still as I said, "Yep, I'm officially all yours till sundown… soooo, where to from here?" I'd asked as I'd turned to him and put my arms around his neck.

He'd leaned his head against mine, closed his eyes and rubbed our noses together adorably. Before he said, "Leave that to me."

And with a snap of his fingers, I felt us teleport again, like we had to get here. Only we didn't travel nearly as far this time. No, suddenly we were within Dracula's private underground quarters. And believe me, everything you think would be here, was… only ten times more menacing and romantic. RED flowers were popping against the dark black backgrounds, and candles were lit every place there could be such things. A HUGE lit fireplace, with shelves FULL of books, A luxurious sofa and comfy chairs also boxed in a reading area. And there were a few different coffins to choose from. Along with a massive walk-in dressing area, and gothic black and red decor all matched to perfection and aged by multiple centuries.

While I admired the atmosphere and even the relaxing smells in that space. Logan was determined to distract me with kisses, and when I wouldn't engage and kept talking he trailed all down my neck and let me talk. Not that I was able to keep in my train of thought very well. He's way too persuasive when he's like this.

I know I had started to spiral too, what if this was all a huge mistake? What if we do this? And it's the biggest mistake of our lives? What if we end up barely standing each other like Mark and me are, now? CouldI bear to let that happen to Logan and me?

But he'd silenced me with such an outburst of affection. That it even left him outta breath, and he doesn't need it like me.

All he said, was. "Does a-any of this feel like a mistake? Any of it at all?"

And I had admitted against his shoulder, "No, it doesn't, I'm just so scared, this seems fast… I don't want to hurt you."

"So don't," He'd shrugged. Like it was that easy.

That was how long it had taken us to reach one of the couches by the fire. So we could lounge more comfortably as we embraced. I do recall asking about the bookshelves, also littering that area. I asked "So many… What kinds of books do you read?"

And he'd said with his lips still moving against my skin on my left shoulder, as he spoke. "Are we really talking about books now? Really, babe?"

And I said, "I'm just.. Cu-curious." But we'd locked eyes and he'd grinned before pulling me into a long kiss on the lips. That was meant to make me forget my question.

I pushed him away, and he laughed. I said, "What? What's funny?"

He leaned back in all sexy and swore, "Only you would want to talk in a room like this… about all the books I had to read before you were here."

"You read them all?!" That was my take away.

He said, "Hey, I had to do something with my time before you."

And again, I had been trying to not think about all the young woman who had been brought here. To meet their end, and here he was bringing it up! So I pushed him a little too hard and said, "Oh yeah, I'm sure you were all alone here." That sounded a bit bitter, even to my ears.

But Logan caught my arm and spun me back to him before I could get too far. And he cursed first thing, saying. "Damn, I really was hoping I wouldn't have to admit this."

"Admit what?" I asked, almost working out of his grip.

But Logan spelled out for me, "Come on, you already know the story we told everyone-"

"Story?" I asked in pure confusion now.

"Yeah, the lie… so I could be respected as their king." He painted me this well-crafted picture. Claiming that allegedly, Even though he was vampire KING. That he didn't bite people, he never did apparently.

When I heard this I laughed because it was THAT unheard of even to me. But I quickly regretted this, because my reaction hurt him. I saw it in his eyes. Before he said, "Why is the lie easier to believe than the truth?"

I had to get it together and ask him, "Wait, let me get this straight… The king of vampires… Their KING… doesn't bite people… not ever?!"

"No!" He said so honestly even though he couldn't look at me. "I don't… See you're not even a vampire and you probably can't respect me now-"

I stopped him right there and turned his head towards me. I said, "Hey?" And he locked eyes with me. And I said, "I've never shared my origin story with anyone. Who am I to judge, I still respect you… anyone who doesn't is crazy… But I am a bit confused, here."

So he took a deep breath and let me pull him close to me. Then he explained. "The fake story is that I haven't bitten anyone besides you since the black plague, right?"

"Right." I confirmed and even added. "That was even the story your whole family was circulating at the party.

He continued, while he looked down at our hands holding tightly between us. "The truth is that even when I was a newborn vampire… I was living off of synthetics my grandfather helped me create and invent! Cause I couldn't hurt people… even then, I couldn't… Why else would I freak out so hardcore over having to bite you… "

I had to say, "It does make a lot of your reactions make so much more sense… But really? Never? EVER?"

"Nope," he said actually looking shy now… him. Something I've rarely seen, and even those few other times were when we were one-on-one like this. He's just too adoreable, I can't take it.

He went on, "Who would let such a sissy vampire rule their realm?"

But I had to tell him, in all honesty. "I don't think you're a sissy. I think it take immeasurable strenghth to do something so against your own nature this way. And I wish more vampires were this considerate of others feelings… and even though I've loved every second of every time you've bit me… I have to admit something too."

"Oh no," he immediately said before, "what did I do wrong?"

"Nothing! Nothing, but I have been trying not to think about all of the women you've bitten before me-"

"You thought there were tons, huh?" He smiled like he liked this idea.

Such a punk, but I told him, "So many! Especially since you've been so kind to me. I figured there must have been a slew of broken hearts before me."

"Nope!" He affirmed, "That's another reason why my Dad Drac is so worried about me finding a Queen. Cause he knows I don't meet people as well as all the former Draculas."

I had to agree, "That definitely complicated things… but I'm the only person you've bitten? Truly?"

And he validated, "The one and only… and knowing how it feels with you, I'm glad I waited."

"Me too," I'd said planting a grateful kiss on his cheek. But he'd gotten hold of my waist and there was no way I was getting off that easily… He dragged out the following kisses. To where they nearly didn't end…

So I never got a straight answer, on his library preferences. I'll have to investigate for myself later. When he's not so… attentive. But that might have to be another day entirely, cause today he's entirely too observant.

But there was nothing that could have deterred him from his current mission. He was laser-focused on me, and I was just as intune to him! We could only play so much of this game, before I couldn't take anymore, and I was pulling him back up to my face. Kissing him the way he truly wanted to be kissed. I even felt him smiling and laughing into that contact every time it happened.

He truly is so much happier than when we first started hanging out… he's like a new monster too. It's not just having a positive effect on me… He's been so much more joyful too. We seem to light each other up.

And this monster leaves no doubt that wants me around… He isn't doing everything to ditch or dodge me, like a certain invisible man did… Mark had pushed me into bushes and closets. Made me hide under tables and even threw me in a lake once when one of his other interests walked by unexpectedly.

That was all Mark… Not to mention, affection from that un-visble lout… NEVER felt like THIS either. Logan's viglance sinks under my skin, like nothing I've EVER felt before.

When I needed to breathe and Drac still didn't. He went on kissing his way back down my neck. Cause he still wasn't missing air… I asked him in total shock. "You're not kidding at all, are you? You actually DO want me and my creations here with you? Don't you?"

He only pulled away from my throat, to look me in the eyes. When he told me, "Yeah, I really do."

I said still in shock, "You don't have ulterior motives or any hidden agendas either-"

"Well, I wouldn't say that." He'd shrugged all punk again.

"Why not," I demanded and he locked eyes with me… and I swear I'm wearing my earrings and contacts that make it impossible for any monster to influence me… and yet I STILL felt hypnotized by him.

He said, "I have an agenda, it's just not hidden very much. And not bad, or nothin' … at least I don't think it's bad." Before I could even ask he went on, "I plan on doing everything I can to convince you to come live here with me."

I laughed, "No, you're not being discreet about this, at all."

He went on saying, "I'm gonna do everything I can to hook you. To prove to you that this is the best place for you, so you'll let me keep you, and it's only because I can't bear to be any place, but right here. With you… any place without you feels too boring, cold, and pointless." He shrugged "Besides even when I had to help out and keep away from you last night. Helping Lola, I just kept thinking about you all the time…when you weren't around. So Please… please tell me you're thinking about it… I really don't want to ever be without you… ever again."

And I had tears just running outta my eyes, he was drying them with his cape. As I asked, "And it's not because you want to control me, or want me only to create what you want? It's nothing like that?"

And he said, "No baby, that's not it at all." Putting our heads together. He kissed my cheek this time and he said, directly in my ear in the sweetest tone. "I know that's probably the only types of people or monsters. To ever take interest in your work, but with me… You'll always be free… to make whatever you want, to do whatever you want to do. I would never try to stop you." And I had to hug him tighter and closer for that. Because he was right, I've only encountered people afraid of what I can do, people who want to stop me, monsters who don't care, and people who want to steal from me… This king was as rare as a kind-hearted human. Which I'm sure is a myth or extinct.

As I squeezed him tighter he went on to say, "I'm just asking you to let me see you, as you conquer the world, your way. Let me help you when I can, however I can. With these two hands, my powers, or anything else of mine you need. But I would never stand in your way… or make you something you're not… I just want to watch you and cheer you on. As you amaze everyone… not just me."

When I could speak, around the growing lump in my throat. I said, "The future is never certain and always scary… to me… but with you. I feel so…"

He guessed, "Hot?!"

And I'd laughed, "That too…" My face had to be red as a rotten apple. "I guess, but even more than hot, you make me feel safe… understood, which I've never felt. But you also make me feel seen… I've never felt any of those things before in all of my years of living a real life as well as an undead one-"

"So you are thinking about this as a good option?" He had to ask for verbal clarification.

And I nodded my head up and down as I had to admit. "You're making it very hard to turn down, yes."

Then he warned me, "Oh you think this is bad… just wait."

"You're planning on making it impossible for me to refuse, aren't you?" I asked him comically.

And he did smile at me before he stuck to his guns. "Like I said, you're free, I'll never force you to do anything you don't wanna. BUT I really would like you to come here so I'm gonna do my damnest to impress you. While I've got you with me today."

"Hmm, good thing we've got all day." I teased.

But he said in perfect seriousness, "Forever's not even long enough."

He's bringing it too well right now, I gotta loosen him up a little. So I challenge him! "Then persuade me to give you more time."

And he'd grinned too happily and told me, "Challenge accepted." Then I was taken off to the impressive selection of coffins he had awaiting us nearby. There he told me, "As you can see I have more than one, but we only need one… right?"

"Puh-lease!" I said sitting on top of the shortest one near me. "We've only needed the one since we met."

And he'd reminded me, "You mean when you came begging for a hiding place and you climbed in with me even though we'd just met?"

And I'd defended myself, "I was DESPERATE! You would be too if Lola-vira had been trying to get you to date that goblin! Eeesh, no thank you!" Chills still shoot down my back just thinking of it.

Logan made me sound even worse as he pointed out. "Let's not forget who kissed who that first time too. Also inside of my coffin."

Again, I was bringing to light, "It was just a simple experiment then, I wanted to know if vampires suck… and while I know with authority that you do suck when you're biting… kissing isn't one of those times. That you suck."

He'd been opening up his coffin of choice and checking a few things. But on the mention of kisses. He was suddenly here with me, on the otherside of the room in wink. Pointing out, "And you kissed me that first time… Even then I let you have the control-"

And I reminded him, "You didn't take over till I tempted fate and kissed you again."

"Yeah," he agreed, before saying, "I've pretty much been yours ever since."

And I nuzzled my nose to his and said, "That kiss changed everything… it brought us here. To where we have our pick of sleeping spaces. In your personal palace, and while most women or even fellow monsteresses would be scared to death. I've never felt so safe…"

He said, "You have nothing to be afraid of… I'd never hurt you. Not if I could help it."

I shushed him and said, in a whisper. "I know, we should rest. This is the last break I'll get before Mona's rebirth, and I really think we should lay down."

"Right." He agreed, before he snapped his fingers and changed us both into sleep attire.

But just like the other time he did this, my nightgown was way more low cut than I'm accustomed to. In vein, I (Quinn) asked him again. "Can this neckline be-"

"Nope! Non-negotiable!" He cut me off, and shot me a smirk as I crossed my arms over my overly exposed flesh.

"Didn't you just say you'd never force things on me… or something like that?" I repeated.

As he comically quipped, "Yes, but you've gotta give me something here."

And I had to cover my mouth so I wouldn't laugh out loud. Then I realized, instead of a robe, I was still wearing my lab coat. So I asked him, "Is there anything else you want me to do?"

"No.. why are you asking that?" He asked all confused looking.

"Because I'm still wearing my lab coat." I pointed out and he grinned that almost evil upturning of his lips. I asked for it, didn't I?

And he let me know, matter-a-factly. "That's because no one ever looked hotter in those white coats."

"Oh you are KIDDING me!?" I (Quinn) lost it.

But he just kept shamelessly looking me up and down and insisting. "I'll never get tired of the sight of you in those… it's beyond hot!"

I had to ask him, "The same lab coats we ALL wear when we're practicing ANY means of science?"

And he didn't hesitate, "We may all wear them, but no one wears them like you." Then he told me to "Quit distracting me with all that sexiness-"

"Wha!" I tried to interrupt.

He insisted, "Nope! You know what I said, and you know you're too hot! But quit tempting me, and help me figure out which coffin we should sleep in."

"How would I do that?" I asked, even though I had a pretty good idea what was happening here.

He ratified, "I think the best way to tell for sure is if you try a few. Maybe even all of them and tell me which one you want to stay in."

I'll spare you the antics of us laughing like little kids as I tired every coffin. And the overwhelming building HEAT between us, when I needed to be lifted into the taller ones. Too high from the ground for me to reach on my own without assistance. And each time he lifted me… he'd hesitate as he held me, like he really didn't want to set me down…

Needless to say, by the time we had finally made our choice, and had climbed in. The anticipation between us and sexual tension was palpable and powerful! But somehow, I still made myself comfortable, on top of him and closed the lid. Squishing us ever closer, and we both smiled.

I know he was preparing to bite me, and I was so looking forward to it. But I just HAD to mess with him. We've shared so much in this short span together, and more is to come before nightfall. It's too irresistible to resist, so just before he could sink his teeth in…

I asked him, "Are the rumors true?"

He paused, "Rumors?"

"Yeah, you know." I waved like it was obvious what I meant… Cause I thought it was.

He retracted his fangs and cleared his throat. "About me? Personally or all Draculas… cause there is a difference."

I made plain, "I've seen firsthand that a Dracula has the power to change a person's clothing. Even when they're wearing it, you can change the clothes on our bodies, BUT is it true that any Dracula can also remove clothing with the same snap of his fingers?"

I'm not certain, but I think I heard him curse his father under his breath. Before he asked, "Who told you that?"

"A girl has her sources." I shrugged, I wasn't selling Lolavira out. She's been far too good to me. But I said, "Come on, is it true."

And he said, "Well… yes and no, actually."

"I don't follow." I squinted at him.

He defined, "Look, sure I can change your clothes but only if you want them to change. It's the same with taking any off. I can only take, what you're willing to lose. Know what I mean?" And when my expression didn't change. He said, "I'll show you what I mean. Let's try with your lab coat… think about how much more comfortable you would be right now if you could get it off."

So I did as he asked and with a snap of his fingers, my white lab coat was gone and everything else remained. He opened the coffin to show me too, that my coat was hung on a hanger just outside of his walk-in closet. And I had to say… "That's really… handy. So you can remove clothes as easily as change them?"

He repeated, "But only what you're willing to let me take off."

"Good to know," I nodded, before the scientist in me had more questions. "Is this a power only Draculas possess or is it a vampire thing too?"

"Ah, I think that is a mostly Dracula thing, I couldn't do that before I was king." He did say and while it didn't sound like he was lying. Even after he's admitted so much here with me today. I had to press my luck

I asked, "Have you ever used it before now?"

And he said, "I've pants-ed a few vampires with that power, after my coronation. Just to see if I could." That had made me laugh. He's such a guy, somtimes! But he'd read between the lines and picked up on what I was really asking too. And as I'd pulled myself back together he'd confirmed. "But other than that… this was the first time I ever tried it on a fellow monstress. If that's what you wanna know."

I nuzzled him closer and said, "Oh Good…"

He nuzzled back and whispered, "You know I've already confessed you're so many of my firsts. How are you still finding so many great questions?"

"Most of being a good scientist is asking the right questions. Being a GREAT scientist is thinking up questions no one else has asked before and finding answers to them too." I let him know.

He nuzzled my neck with that adorable nose of his, and said. "I love it when you talk science in a closed coffin with me. Keep going…"

And while I tried to keep on topic, with what I was saying he did begin biting me. And there's no way I could keep in any real line of reason with him doing that… Except for maybe one.

When he'd finished healing the places where he'd bit. I whispered to him, "Snap your fingers again, Drac."

"What?" He asked smiling but sounding surprised.

So I asked again, "Snap your fingers again…"

He looked me in the eye and asked, "Are you sure? You want me to do that?"

And I nodded again, but he waited for the word, "yes."

And with a snap of his fingers, there was nothing holding either of us back anymore. It's probably incorrect calling what happened from there magical. When that same magic happens between us every single moment we get to be together. But this magic was next level… and I'll never forget it. As we both shared a new first in that coffin... And I knew... I loved this monster with everything that I am... Now I just had to figure out how I would tell him.

That's All Folks!

Well for this chapter anyways! But the next one is already started, Logan's perspective too, and shouldn't take long to finish up! Hopefully, more like this one, it'll come together quickly and I can post again soon. Thank you all so much for sticking this out with me! I don't even have words for those of you who have been here since the beginning. Bless you all, whether you're one of those or new! Please write a review if you have time, I would love to hear from you! Hope you're having the BEST day! Happy birthday one more time to Erin! Bless her! So happy birthday to Quinn too! Take Care and Much Love!

~DarcyBeDippy85!