Whispers In The Dark 2n1360

Whispers In The Dark

Niranjan

First published by Geetha Krishnan 2021

Copyright © 2021 by Niranjan K

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise without written permission from the publisher. It is illegal to copy this book, post it to a website, or distribute it by any other means without permission.

This novel is entirely a work of fiction. The names, characters and incidents portrayed in it are the work of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or localities is entirely coincidental.

Niranjan K (Geetha Krishnan) asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of this work.

Designations used by companies to distinguish their products are often claimed as trademarks. All brand names and product names used in this book and on its cover are trade names, service marks, trademarks and ed trademarks of their respective owners. The publishers and the book are not associated with any product or vendor mentioned in this book. None of the companies referenced within the book have endorsed the book.

First Edition ISBN 978-1-3933454-5-9

Editing by Fair Editions

Cover Art by Fablo Krieger, Bravo Covers

Formatted by J.E. Mueller

To my daughter Happy birthday. I hope you enjoy reading about Ray and Alistair as much as I enjoyed creating them. To my son This was finished at the time I lost you. It is bittersweet going through it. I love you.

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Chapter 44

Chapter 45

Chapter 46

Chapter 47

Chapter 48

About the Author

Also by Niranjan

Chapter One

The ringing of the telephone jolted Ray out of deep sleep. He stared balefully at it for a moment before grabbing it. The number was unknown, but it was 3 am and who was going to call at this hour unless it was urgent? He still didn't feel fully awake, and he wanted to reject the call and go back to sleep, but what if? He accepted the call, saying, “Whoever you are, I hope you have a good enough reason for waking me up at this hour.” “Raymond Haspel?” It was an unfamiliar voice, and Ray suppressed a groan. “Duh,” he said. “Wasn't it my number that you called?” “I'm Magnus.” The soft-spoken words effectively banished all sleep, and explained, at least in part, the reason for the hour of call. “And what does the head of the Vampire Council want with me?” “We need your help.” Magnus replied. “A vampire wants a hunter's help.” Ray didn't try to hide his disbelief. “It is your skills as a hunter that we need.” Magnus said as if he hadn't noticed Ray's disbelief. “I'm outside your house right now. I-” “Is that a threat?” Ray interrupted. “Mr. Haspel, let us not insult each other's intelligence or abilities. I'm here because I wish to meet you in person. I've sent something to your phone.” Ray's phone chimed. “Please look through them. I'll wait.” The line went dead. Typical vampire arrogance. He opened the message Magnus had sent him and stared at the photographs. Four of them, with dates and places. “Fuck!” he muttered.

He dropped the phone on to the bed and started getting dressed. Magnus certainly knew how to get his attention. He picked up his phone and put it in his pocket before leaving the room. He opened the front door cautiously. Only a fool would trust a vampire blindly. Magnus was standing outside the gate. Small, thin, almost reedy and bespectacled, he looked nothing like what anyone would take the head of a vampire council to be. He looked like an ant which was what he was in his day job. Quite helpful in staying off the radar. Ray stayed in the porch and beckoned him to come closer. Magnus approached the house, stopping short of the steps. Ray stayed on the top step. “I'm assuming you don't plan to invite me in.” Magnus said. “As you said, let's not insult each other's intelligence.” Ray took out his phone and showed Magnus the images he had sent him. “Rogue vampire?” Magnus nodded. “I've kept it out of the media, but I'm not sure how long I'll be able to do that. If he's not found, the entire vampire community is at risk of exposure.” “And that is my problem how?” “It isn't, but I would have thought you'd be concerned for his victims. Aren't you hunters bound by an oath to protect the innocent?” Magnus had a point. Rogue vampires were always dangerous. More so to humans than to vampires who often managed to use their mind control to escape attention. “Not since the treaty between vampires and hunters, as you know.” Ray said calmly. “Rogue vampires are your responsibility.” “Usually, yes, but,” Magnus looked at him, and sighed. “We are unable to identify or trace him.” That surprised Ray. Vampires had their unique ways of tracking their own. And if they couldn't, it meant, “He’s killed his sire.” Ray murmured. “That seems likely. Or he's so old that he knows how to mask the bond between him and his sire or he’s grown powerful enough to break it. Either way, it's not possible for us to find him.”

“And you think I can?” “You're a hunter.” “And what do you think I'm going to do to him once I find him?” “Hand him over to us as per the of the treaty.” Ray chuckled. “No. The treaty says we're to hand over any rogue vampires we may come across accidentally, it doesn't say we should hand over a vampire we've hunted.” “He has to face our justice.” Magnus said, his tone insistent. “Then you find him yourself.” Ray turned to go. “Don't you care for the people he may kill?” Magnus asked. Ray half turned. “I do, which is why I'm going to hunt him down and kill him. I'm a hunter after all.” “You don't understand!” Magnus said. “You know why the treaty was made. Do you want a war?” “And as I said, I won't be violating any of the of the treaty. If you don't want me killing him, then I suggest you find him before I do.” Ray was beginning to be angry. What the hell did Magnus think of himself? Ray was a hunter, and this was a vampire attacking humans. Did he honestly think he was going to hand him over to them? Did he think Ray didn't know what vampire justice entailed? Or that he didn’t know what the treaty actually said? A vampire attacking humans meant that hunters could take him out, and they had killed a fair bit over the centuries, with never a fuss made. Yet, here was Magnus, trying to fool him. “Name your price.” Magnus said as he reached the door. He whirled around. “What the fuck!” Magnus removed his glasses and his eyes met Ray’s, all the intensity and power

of the vampire boring down on him. “Everyone has a price. Name yours.” “If you think-” Ray started, furious. “Don't give me platitudes.” Magnus interrupted. “There has to be something you want that we can give you.” Ray stared at him. “You bastard.” he said softly. He was still angry, but it was tinged with a grudging respect. Magnus knew. Of course he did. The only thing that was in doubt was how much influence he had over Alistair who was more of a lone wolf. But what had he to lose? After all, Magnus wouldn’t have offered if it was an utter impossibility. Magnus' face remained imive. “All right,” Ray said. It might not be the best decision, but it was going to be worth it. “Alistair. I want him to break the bond between us. Once it is done, I am ready to swear to hand over the Rogue to you. No provisos, no conditions on either side.” Magnus nodded. “I'll see what I can do.” “You better do it before I find your rogue,” Ray said. Magnus inclined his head slightly before vanishing. Ray stood there, watching the spot where the vampire had been. He shrugged and huffed out a laugh. “Damn vampires!”

Chapter Two

The police station was a small building, which more or less belied its importance. From his observations at various times, Ray knew no less than thirty people worked there. Inspector Brad Surrey who led the team of policemen was the most celebrated and successful cop in the city. No surprise since he was also a vampire. One among the lower echelons, but still useful. “Ray Haspel,” the Inspector greeted him, not looking happy. Surrey was large, and almost corpulent which belied the speed with which he could move if needed. “Magnus says I’m to give you whatever help you need.” It was surprising that Magnus could have guessed his move, but perhaps it shouldn’t have been. Their investigations almost always started with what the law enforcement knew, so Magnus would certainly have known he would approach Surrey. “Magnus told you about the vampire serial killer?” Ray asked as he took the seat opposite the broad desk separating him from the vampire. “That’s one way to put it, I guess.” Surrey muttered. “But no, I was the one who apprised him of the situation. Approaching you was the council’s decision, of course.” Ray could have surmised as much, but he didn’t say it. Instead, he asked, “I’m assuming you’re not in charge of the investigation.” “It happened in Criston, as a matter of fact.” Surrey said. “We have a man there, and he informed me and I informed Magnus. The authorities there are in charge.” “And there’s no doubt that it was a vampire?” Surrey shook his head. “None. We know it when we see it. Grimes, the man we have there, talked to the neighbours and partners of the victims. No one has heard or seen anything. Everyone was asleep. One of the neighbours suffer from

chronic insomnia. Even he was asleep like the dead.” “So, the killer put everyone to sleep.” Ray muttered. “Used his vampire powers. But how did he gain entry into the houses of the victims?” “Hypnotised a partner? Or a housekeeper?” Surrey shrugged. “I don’t know really. I only got the pictures and enough details to convince me that it was a vampire. My job ended when I got the word to the council and they didn’t ask me to investigate.” “They have to be powerful.” Ray said, not answering the last part of the question. Magnus must have had his reasons for coming to a hunter, and Ray wasn’t going to speculate on them. “They managed to put more than one household to sleep.” Surrey nodded, face tense. “Do you have any details about the victims? What they do, where they live, anything?” Surrey shook his head. “You’ll have to Grimes for those details. Magnus would have apprised him too, so he’ll help you. I’ll give you his number and the station address.” Surrey picked up his phone and a moment later Ray’s phone chimed. Ray picked up to see that he has received a new , William Grimes and a text with an address in Criston. “I don’t know if I should be concerned or flattered that you have my number saved in your phone.” he remarked as he rose. Surrey chuckled, though it was strained. “What kind of cop would I be if a Haspel lived in my city and I didn’t have his details?” Ray gave him a smile before leaving his cabin. Once outside, he looked at the address in his phone. Criston was a two-hour drive in moderate traffic and it was anything but at this hour. He had nothing else to do, though. He would have a spot of lunch and head off to Criston and meet Grimes. Ray went to the restaurant at the corner from his flat, and as he sat down, his phone rang. He swore under his breath as he saw the number.

“Anton,” he greeted, answering the call. “I'm a bit busy.” “Aren't you always?” His brother's voice held resignation. “This can't wait, I'm afraid. Dad's in hospital. He's had a heart attack.” He gripped the handset tight, his mind suddenly empty of all thought. There was a roaring sound in his ears and everything around was suddenly blurry. “Ray?” Anton's voice was very loud and Ray winced. “Are you there?” “Y…yes,” Ray cleared his throat twice. “How... How is he?” “The doctors say it's too early to tell. He's in the intensive care.” He wanted to drop everything and catch the next flight to Vrelsk, but how could he leave? This investigation was important, but what if Dad- this could be his last chance of seeing his father alive. “How's Mom?” “How do you think?” Anton's voice was tired. “Pretending to be unaffected, so we won't worry. As if we don't know her.” “Are you in Vrelsk?” “Yeah, I’m. Uncle Gary called me as soon as Dad was taken to the hospital last night. Dan said he'll be reaching tomorrow. Eve is still in Amalfen, so she may not reach for a couple of days.” Anton was speaking too fast, and Ray could sense why. His brother always did this when he was anxious. Just talking as if he was afraid of the silence and wanted to fill it up. “Anton, why is everyone coming?” Ray was worried. Did that mean Dad was worse than Anton let on? Dan okay, at least he was in the same country, but if Eve was flying home as well, and Anton had ed him… suddenly it felt as if the small restaurant had become airless. “I don't know, I just...” Anton sighed. “I panicked, okay? Uncle Gary called me because I live nearest. But I've never... heck, I'm the youngest! Why the hell aren't you or Dan here? I’m not equipped to deal with this!”

Ray was silent. What could he say? “What is so urgent anyway?” Anton asked. “A rogue vampire has been killing humans and Magnus wanted me to find him. They're not able to trace him.” “He must have killed his sire.” Anton said. “Old ones really don't go rogue, at least not openly. They won't let their kills be noticed.” It made sense. Anton might be younger than him, but he had more experience and knowledge. Compared to the rest of his family, all Ray had was the Haspel name. “Can't the hunt wait?” Anton asked after a moment. “I know it’s important, but is it urgent? We… I… I really need you, Ray.” There was a pleading note to Anton’s voice, and Ray pinched the bridge of his nose. Could the hunt wait? If the vampire killed again, that would be on him. There was also the fact that the vampire could strike anytime and Ray hadn't even started his investigation yet. Wasn't it presumptuous of him to assume he could stop it so quickly? Perhaps he could get some of the legwork done today, and see if he could find some kind of pattern or reason. “I'll catch the next flight out.” he said. “I'll try and catch the connection that Eve is taking, so we can travel together.” It had been a while since he had seen his sister. His appetite gone, Ray ate mechanically. He hadn't been to Vrelsk in seven years. Not since he turned twenty-one again. He tried not to think of it. Of everything that had happened, of Alistair. Where was Alistair? Had he returned to his house in Vrelsk? He had not even visited for the five years after… Ray shouldn't be thinking of that. He should be thinking of Dad or of the rogue he was hunting, anything and anyone except Alistair. It was possible he was still away from Vrelsk. Was he even in Verlod? It was a big country. Ray signalled the waiter for the bill. If he was going home, he needed to pack and book his tickets. Why was it that everything was always so last minute with him?

Chapter Three

Eve walked purposefully across the street. She still wasn't sure if she was doing the right thing. Would Ray even want her to do this? She didn't want to overthink this. It was enough that she had failed her brother once. She was not going to do that again. In her quest for revenge, she had forgotten that she had living siblings who needed her. Not any longer. This was for Ray. The hotel lobby was dark after the bright sunlight outside, and Eve hesitated for just a moment before moving towards the reception. The young man gave her a smile. “Can I help you?” “I've an appointment with Mr. Alistair Graham?” she said, giving him a nervous smile and exaggerating her fake accent. “About a job?” “He's our manager.” the young man said. “He's not in, yet. You can wait in his office.” “Thank you.” she said, still maintaining the facade. “I'm sorry about the trouble. I didn't want to be late, and I'm too early, aren't I?” “No, you're not.” he said, beckoning one of the bell boys, who ambled up to them. “Mr. Graham is late today.” He turned to the bell boy. “Show the young lady to Mr. Graham's office.” She thanked him once again before following the bell boy past the reception desk on to a corridor that was hidden from the main lobby and into a room at its beginning. “You can wait here.” the bell boy told her as he turned on the lights. She nodded, thanking him and sinking into one of the comfortable couches against the wall. The room was large with a square desk with a chair behind and two straight chairs facing it dominating attention. The two couches against the wall, a bookshelf at right angles to the desk and the carpet on the floor completed the furniture. There were no windows. The room was dimly lit even

with all the lights. Eve could feel her heart hammering despite the ease with which she had accomplished her task. Alistair hadn't been easy to find, and even after finding out his alias and where he worked, she had not been able to find where he lived. Probably, his commute to and from work was by unorthodox methods, which would explain why she had not been able to tail him. All she had to do now was to wait. She had not bothered to disguise herself. There was no disguise that could fool Alistair. He knew her too well. She would have preferred not to confront him at work. There were way too many cameras everywhere. That was something she hadn't ed for. Sloppy. The door opened and Alistair entered the room, quiet and quick. She rose to her feet, her hand gripping her gun. “Ryan told me you were waiting, but I don't any appointments.” he said before his eyes widened and recognition dawned in them. Before he could speak her name, she shot him. The bullets were wood, and coated in rose water. It would prevent him from healing and would incapacitate him. But he moved faster than she had ever seen anyone, and the gun was plucked out of her hand, the bullets hitting the wall opposite. She jumped to a side, her legs sweeping his from under even as she drew the stake concealed in her jacket. He moved to a side, his hand gripping her wrist and the other one around her neck. She couldn't breathe and she stared at his face, trying to pry his hand loose with her free hand. Her other hand opened as his grip on her wrist tightened and the stake clattered to the floor. Her vision started to blur around the edges, and she kicked out in desperation, but her legs seemed made out of lead. His eyes bored into her and she could feel her will weakening. Her hand dropped to a side just before her vision went black. He dropped her on to the floor and sensation returned. She gasped in lungsful of air, staying on her hands and knees. Nausea churned in her gut and she bit it back, clamping her lips tight. “I expected better.” he said, his voice sounding as if coming from far away. “I thought you were a Haspel.”

The insult stung, but she had no breath to answer him. She flexed her wrist, grateful to realise it was only bruised. He could easily have broken it. She struggled to her feet, the world tilting dangerously as she regained her footing. She leaned against the wall, and said, “I think I'm going to be sick.” Her voice rasped and it hurt to speak, and before she could understand what was happening, she was inside a bathroom. “I'll be outside.” Alistair said and left. Eve heaved into the toilet bowl, vomiting till there was nothing left, and she still kept retching. She could feel the wetness dripping down her face, and down the end of her nose and she made no attempt to stop it. What a fool she had been! Alistair wasn't a normal vampire. He was one of the oldest, and among the most powerful. Did she really think she could take him? I'm sorry, Ray. Ray would wait for her at the airport, and would ring her, and might come looking for her. Or he might head home, thinking she had changed her plans. Would he find her? Would her family ever know what happened to her? Alistair was probably not going to let her live, and he would be within his rights. “Oh god.” she whispered. She had broken the treaty. Whatever her reasons, she had attacked Alistair without provocation. Had she been successful, it wouldn't have mattered, but she had failed. If Alistair chose to go after her family... Even if he didn't, he could kill her or hand her over to the Vampire Council and have them make an example of her. Tears started to her eyes again. How disappointed Mom would be! And Dad was in the hospital. How would he feel? And Dan and Anton, and Ray who would probably blame himself. She lifted herself onto shaky legs. She washed her face and rinsed her mouth. With trembling hands, she brushed her hair and tied it back. Her face looked pale and her eyes were huge in her reflection. Nothing she could do about it now. There was no way of leaving the bathroom except through the door, and there were no weapons she could use against him. She drew a few deep breaths, but her heart wouldn't slow down. She forced her unsteady legs to carry her to the door and through it.

“Sit down, Eve.” Alistair said, his tone and his expression cold and forbidding.

Chapter Four

Alistair wasn't really sure how to interpret what had happened in the last hour. Eve looked frightened as she sat in front of him. He stared at her, debating what to do. If this got out, it was going to be trouble for the Haspels, all of them, including Ray. But how could he just let this go? “Are you going to explain?” he asked, not expecting an answer. She shook her head, confirming his expectations. He sighed. “What do I do with you, Eve?” he murmured, feeling weary all of a sudden. How could he harm her when he had watched her grow up, and had seen her suffer through everything that life had thrown at her? And yet, he had to know what prompted this attack. She lifted her head to stare at him, surprise and confusion clear in her expression. “What do you mean?” she asked. “How long have you known me, Eve?” he asked instead. She drew a deep breath, and looked away from him. “All my life,” she whispered finally, her voice so low as to be inaudible, except to his vampiric ears. “And I've watched you grow up.” He pulled a chair close to hers and sat down facing her. “Why, Eve? Have you any idea what is going to happen if this gets out?” She looked at him again, the sheen of tears in her eyes. “I had to.” she said at last. “For Ray.” It was perhaps the last thing he had expected, but if he had any sense at all, he should have. “Eve,” he said quietly. “Ray is human again. This vendetta serves no one.” “Yet, you took him!” There was grief and bitterness in her voice. “We... We

couldn't protect him!” “Ray came to me.” he said. She knew all this, didn't she? Why was he explaining himself to her? Even her father had accepted that Alistair hadn't done anything to violate the of the treaty. “He wanted to be a vampire.” he said, the lie slipping out so easily now. It wasn't completely a lie because that part of it was true, but it wasn't the whole truth either. “He was sixteen!” Her gaze and voice were full of rage, despite her eyes still shining with tears and her voice little more than a hoarse whisper. He could see the bruises on her neck, and couldn't help feel slightly guilty. “Sixteen, and you... God! Alistair, you know damn well you shouldn't have done it!” “I'm a vampire.” He reminded her. “Don't expect me to behave as a human would have.” He could have told her the truth, of course, but he didn't want to. It was for Ray to tell his family, if he chose to. He wouldn't betray his secret. Not even if it cost him his friendship with the Haspels. He ignored the pang the thought gave him. Wasn't that why he had run? The Haspels meant more to him than anyone realised, and to know he had irreparably damaged that relationship was more than he was ready to face. He could blame Ray, but she was right. He had been sixteen. I made amends. Why do they behave as if everything's my fault? She sniffled. “What are you going to do to me?” she asked. He handed her a handkerchief and waited till she had dabbed her eyes and blown her nose before replying, “Let you go. Just promise me you won't try anything like this again.” “And if I don't?” The defiance he knew was rearing its head. He hardened his heart. “I'll have to tell your mother.” Her eyes widened, dismay clear in them. “You wouldn't!” “I certainly would.” he said. “Look, I get you're angry with me for turning your brother, but that was a long time ago. You have him back; you've had him back

for twelve years now, so just let it go, all right? Is it worth breaking the treaty?” “You don't understand.” she whispered. “I do.” he said, suppressing an eye roll. He might not be human, but he had lived amongst then long enough. “You feel guilty. You feel like you should have been there for Ray. You think he came to me because he had nowhere else to go, no one else who understood him.” Her eyes were still wide, but with surprise this time. “How do you-” She paused and rubbed her forehead. “You make me feel like a child.” she said at last. “That wasn't my intention.” he said. “I know you won't believe me, but you're not responsible for Ray's choices. Perhaps you were preoccupied, but if he had approached you, would you have rebuffed him?” She had a strange expression on her face as she stared at him, suspicion and something he could not decipher. She shook her head slowly. “No,” she said. “Of course not. But... but I did make him feel like he couldn't come to me... that I had no time for him...” “Did Ray ever tell you that?” She shook her head again. “So, you're just assuming,” he said. “Let it go, Eve. Ray made his decision. And it's all moot anyway.” “Is it?” She stared at him, anger in her gaze. “You still have the bond with Ray.” “For better or worse, he was my fledgling once.” Alistair said. “I can't help the formation of the bond.” “He's no longer your fledgling! Nor does he need your protection! It is there now because you choose it to be there. You could have broken it when he became human again!” “Strange,” he murmured, thinking of Magnus' visit the previous day. “You're the second person in as many days to demand that I break the bond with Ray.”

“But you will not do it.” she sounded tired. “I told Magnus and I'm telling you, Eve that I'll break the bond when and only when Ray asks me in person.” That was only fair, wasn't it? Wasn't he owed that much? Ray could bloody well ask him if he wanted. “I guess that's fair,” she said after a moment glaring at him. She shuffled in her seat a bit. “Can I leave?” “I haven't tied you to the chair.” he said, this time rolling his eyes. How many times did he need to spell it out? She rose, but her legs wobbled and he steadied her. “Perhaps you should see a doctor.” “I'm fine, it's just... everything has been... I don't know, it's been rather intense.” “If you're certain.” he said, letting her go. She nodded. “You won't tell Mom, will you? Dad's just had a heart attack and-” “What?” He was startled. Ned had a heart attack? “How is he? And why are you here instead of going to him?” “It's early days yet.” she said. “And I'm going to him, I've an evening flight.” “What aren't you telling me?” His eyes bored into hers. He rarely used his powers on humans, but he was no novice, and even a mind as strong as hers wasn't immune from him. “Ray is coming as well. I'm meeting him at the airport here.” she said, before his eyes let her go and she gasped, her hand flying to cover her mouth. “Are you afraid I may harm him?” The idea was laughable. “I'm not as irresponsible as that, Eve. I won't break the treaty.” She looked as if she would tear him a new one, but she swallowed whatever it was she wanted to say and walked out of the room, her gait still not quite steady. He made no move to stop her. She was an adult. She could take care of herself, and she had made it quite clear that his help wasn't wanted or welcome. Why couldn't he let the bloody Haspels go?

Chapter Five

Ray checked his watch, feeling slightly impatient. It wasn’t like Eve to be late. He shifted from one foot to the other, stretched and yawned. It had been a long flight from Miriwok to Bahter, and he was exhausted. Would he able to get some sleep in the flight? It was an overnight flight, so perhaps. “Sorry I’m late.” Eve’s voice startled him. “I got held up.” He felt something within him relax and a smile stretched his mouth. “You look like shit,” he said, enveloping her in a hug. She might be older than him, but she was small, taking after their father’s side of the family. “Good to see you too.” she said, hugging him back so hard it hurt. He had forgotten how strong she was in spite of her stature. “Are you crying?” That surprised him. Eve had always been so tough, even when they had lost Shane. Don't go there! “Hey, what is it?” he asked, worried now as she hid her face on his chest, her shoulders shaking. “I was so stupid.” she whispered, sniffling. “Promise me you won’t be mad.” “How can I ever be mad at my favourite sister?” She chuckled, even through her sniffles. “I’m your only sister, you asshole.” “And my favourite as well.” he said. She pushed herself away from him, her gaze on his face, searching and keen even through the tears. “What is it, Eve?”

She shook her head. “It’s just… seeing you after all this time, and Dad and...” she sighed. “I haven’t been home in a while.” He knew that wasn’t it, but he didn’t want to push her. God knew he had his own secrets. Everyone was entitled to their own, and if Eve wanted to tell him, she would. All he could do was play along. “So, I understood from Anton.” he said, as he put an arm around her shoulder and hefted his bag in his other hand. “Where’s your luggage?” “I sent it on ahead.” she said. “You’re not planning on staying long, are you?” He didn’t ask her how she knew. It wasn’t a difficult guess, easily deduced from the size of his luggage. They walked towards the boarding area, his hand still around her shoulder. It felt so good to have her there. Ray had not realised how much he had missed her, just as he did the rest of his family, and yet he had run halfway across the globe. ittedly, he wasn’t thinking too straight, what with realising that the bond with Alistair still existed and also that his feelings for the vampire had undergone no change. There was also the way everyone seemed to be walking on eggshells around him, as if they no longer knew what to do with him. An involuntary sigh escaped his lips and she asked, “Are you all right?” “I don’t know,” he said, deciding to be honest. “I missed you, all of you. I should have come home earlier.” “Then don’t go back.” she said. “Stay. We missed you too.” He wanted to, so desperately. But the images in the photographs that Magnus had shown him came to his mind. “I can’t,” he said. “I need to find that rogue vampire.” Had Magnus ed Alistair yet? Did he agree to breaking the bond? “You know, perhaps you can ask someone else to do it. You can’t be the only vampire hunter in Miriwok.” “Still the only Haspel in Miriwok.” he smiled at her. “Don’t worry. I’ll be

careful.” She looked troubled, and he could guess why. Of course. It was part of why he had left too. The way his family behaved around him. None of them blamed him, even though they all knew it was his fault, but they did behave as if he needed to be protected. From myself. He couldn’t blame them, not completely, but he had got tired of it. How many years would it take for them to trust him? How many years would it need for them to lose that troubled look whenever he went hunting? Eve said softly, as if guessing his thoughts, “I wasn’t questioning your competence.” “Only my trustworthiness.” he said, releasing her. “Ray...” “How many years, Eve?” He couldn’t help the bitterness in his voice. “How many years before I must stop paying for my mistake? How many years before you can all treat me like a fucking adult? It’s like you think I’m some kind of an addict who shall go back to being a vampire if I spend too much time with them, even if I’m hunting them?” “Ray, it’s not-” She stopped and sighed. “It’s not that. We lost Shane, and then we almost lost you. It’s not lack of trust, Ray, it’s concern… I… We didn’t know it was making you this uncomfortable…” “Stop humouring me.” he said, allowing his weariness to show. “I’m not!” She looked angry. “Besides, it wasn’t even your fault! If anyone is to blame, it is only Alistair!” It wasn’t. Surely she knew it? “You know that isn’t true.” he said softly. “I was the one who went to Alistair, who wanted to become a vampire. It was all me.” “You were sixteen!” Her eyes were snapping in anger. “He should have known better! Even if he was a vampire.”

“You’re wrong.” he said, avoiding her eyes. Could he tell her? But, how could he? They already thought him untrustworthy and irresponsible. What were they going to say if they knew the whole story? So, are you going to let Alistair take the blame for your actions, you fucking coward? What did it matter anyway? It didn’t signify even if his family blamed Alistair. He hadn’t broken the treaty and as such was safe. Besides, it was not like he knew what they all thought. Doesn’t make it right. He didn’t care, and his conscience could just deal with it. “Ray?” Eve asked, still sounding worried. “I’m not an invalid or dying.” he said. “You don’t have to sound so worried if I space out for a moment.” She looked hurt for a second before her expression hardened. “Stop behaving like a petulant child!” she said. “I’m not going to apologise for your imaginations, Ray. If you want to be treated like an adult, start acting like one.” She walked away towards the women’s queue and Ray moved towards the much shorter men’s queue. Way to go, Ray. Piss off everyone who cares for you. Couldn’t his mind stop the running commentary? He knew damn well what he’d done. He stepped on to the scanning platform. He had hurt her, and for that he owed her an apology. But not for anything else. He accepted his luggage back, thanking the android that had scanned it. What a weird world! Creatures from myth walked freely amongst androids and all these technological marvels. But then, not everyone knew about the creatures. He could well imagine the panic it would cause. People had always been good at that. And of judging others. And destroying what they couldn’t understand, what

they feared. That they were especially good at. If ever the vampires revealed their existence, there was likely to be a war, especially considering all the religious fanaticism out there. We have colonised other planets and yet, we cannot let go of religion. He took his seat, in between a small child of maybe 9 and an old man. Eve had an aisle seat from across him. She smiled at him, but it looked forced. He buckled himself in, and helped the child with his seat belt, while his mind kept racing. Any hunter worth the name knew that vampires weren’t really stopped by crosses or holy water. The old books dealing with them had many things right: their aversion to running water, to rosebushes, even wolfsbane though nowadays popular culture associated it with werewolves, their hypnotising powers, their shapeshifting, their strength and speed, but they got it completely wrong with the crosses and holy water and sunlight. Just like they got it completely wrong with the undead part. Vampires weren’t undead. They were alive; they could only be turned while they were still alive. It wasn’t a sudden transformation. It was gradual, and so excruciatingly painful, that if Alistair hadn't been there, Ray didn't think he would have survived. Being a vampire was unnatural only in that they couldn’t die of natural causes any more. No more falling ill, or starving or dying in accidents, unless the accident caused something wooden to pierce their heart or cut off their head. The only things that could kill a vampire were substantial damage to the heart or the brain. Damage that couldn’t be taken care of by their accelerated healing powers. Wood was the only thing that caused that kind of damage. Metal could pierce their skins, but it didn’t take. Of course, for decapitation, nothing worked like a machete, whatever it was made of. They just needed to be quick enough to take off the head before the wound from the metal started to heal. He yawned, and pushed the seat back, closing his eyes. He wore a wooden crucifix in a chain around his neck, not for any religious reasons, but because it had a pointed end and was a good enough weapon in close quarters if he ever got cornered, and also because it was made of juniper. Since the treaty a few centuries back, the vampires had not been attacking humans indiscriminately, but there were always rogues, though nothing like the one Magnus had asked him to

find. Most rogues were taken out by the council before they could kill more than a couple of people at the most, and the rest were killed by hunters in selfdefence. Rogues were stupid enough to think that the treaty had made hunters weak, that the old hunter families didn’t spend as much time in their training as they did in the days before the pact. They almost always attacked the hunters, and ended up dead. That was another thing popular culture got wrong. Vampires didn’t disintegrate or turn into ashes when they were killed. Only the old ones did that. Those who had lived so long their bodies would have disintegrated and turned into dust had they been humans. The new ones… they stayed as they were in death, indistinguishable from humans. He yawned again, and sighed, as he slipped into sleep.

Chapter Six

The sun was beginning to set as they disembarked. Dan was waiting for them, looking as large and ruggedly handsome as he’d always done, a splitting image of uncle Gary, something both uncle and nephew took pride in. Ray’s features were more like that of his father and his side of the family, though he was grateful for his mother’s genes that gave him his size. Dan dwarfed him, however, as his arms enveloped him and Ray hugged his brother back, unable to stop smiling, all his rancour melting away. “So good to see you, Ray.” Dan’s voice was like a rumble, that went through Ray’s entire body due to the fact that his brother was yet to let him go. “Good to see you too,” Ray said squirming a bit. “You can let go, you know.” Dan’s laugh literally shook his frame, but he released him. “Talk of a bear hug.” Ray said, but was aware of the grin he was unable to help. Eve lifted her hands, grinning. “Ray already gave me a hug, so my quota of hugs for the day is exhausted.” “Mine isn’t.” Dan said, his tone teasing. but he didn’t hug her. Despite being a family that was often physical with their affections, Eve wasn't a fan of Dan's hugs, unless she initiated them. Dan pecked her on the cheek, as he led them to the car. “You bought a new car?” Ray asked, staring at the shining silver-grey vehicle. “I’ve had it for a year.” Dan said, opening the boot for Ray to put in his luggage. “Which you’d know if you’d deign to visit us occasionally or at least, I don’t know, call?” “I’m sorry.” Ray muttered. He could have called. He should have called. He also could fly off his handle

like he did with Eve, but one fight in a day with a sibling was enough. “I’m not trying to guilt trip you.” Dan said as he got into the car. “I’m sure you’re busy. But I was hoping you would at least call Mom and Dad occasionally.” “I know.” Ray felt three inches tall as he slid into the enger seat next to Dan. Eve was sitting back, her eyes brooding as she stared outside. The car moved and Dan said, “Dad’s still the hospital, and Mom’s with him. Do you want to go there or go home and change?” “Go home and change, I think.” Ray said. It had been a long flight from Bahter, and he had an even longer one from Miriwok before. He was exhausted, but was too restless, and on edge. He just needed clean clothes. “All right.” Dan said, keying in the command to the steering . “I need to install a voice activator in this. Been putting it off because Nat is afraid Brett will activate it accidentally.” “How is Nat? And Brett?” Ray asked, feeling his guilt intensify. How old must Brett be now? The last time he had seen him was when he was three. He could understand Nat’s concerns. Even if they set the voice activator to respond only to Dan, kids these days were tech savvy enough to hack into everything. “They’re good.” Dan said. “Nat complains about how you never visit these days. Brett loves the gifts you send him for his birthdays, but I think he would appreciate it more if you can just turn up for his birthday once in a while.” “You should get one of those transporters, Dan.” Eve said from the back seat, preventing Ray from having to make another apology. “You can be anywhere within the blink of an eye if the ads are to be believed and it’s more energy efficient, cleaner and requires no maintenance. Since they’re coded to DNA, no chance of Brett taking it for a spin when you aren’t looking.” “It also costs the earth.” Dan said. “Maybe in another 5 years if it becomes affordable. Besides, I love travelling by car.”

That he did, and so did they all. The transporter was a useful invention, but not exactly cost effective and since its use was restricted to only one person at a time, it was also not too convenient. The small talk continued till they reached home, Ray contributing anecdotes from work and Eve side-tracking Dan every time he said something about Ray’s prolonged absence from their lives. Ray was grateful to his sister. He ought to apologise to her for everything he said, but not in front of Dan. He didn’t want to explain himself to his brother. His old room had been made ready for him, and Ray stood inside once his siblings had left. He had forgotten this room, its contours, the bed, his wardrobe. He touched a wall; the colour was pale yellow, which was different from the last time he was here. His parents used to paint the rooms every year. It used to drive him crazy because every year he had to remove his posters and put them up again, and every year a few of them got torn so much they couldn’t be fixed. His room was always painted in light colours. Green, blue, yellow, even lavender and pink, though that happened only once each. He hadn’t minded, but Dan had teased him mercilessly till his parents told their eldest to shut it. But they had stopped painting Ray’s room in what Dan called “girly colours” instead reserving those for Dan's. Dan had the indignity of having his room painted a bright fluorescent pink one year and a pale pastel pink the next year, till he had apologised to Ray. It made Ray smile now. He moved to the window. What would he see if he looked outside? Would he see the large house where Alistair had lived, where he had lived during the ten years he had spent as a vampire? Or had the house been demolished by its present owners? Alistair must have sold it. He had not lived there since Ray became human again. Not that he was there all the time while Ray was a vampire. I must be the only one in the world who got to relive adolescence twice. Vampires aged, though the process slowed with time. But he was sixteen and so, his ageing was the same as that of humans. But at twenty-six, when he was finally turned back, he had reverted to the age he had been when he was first turned. At least, he wouldn’t have to go through all that again. Now if he could only forget his feelings for Alistair, everything would have been perfect. But he had to go and fall in love with the vampire. He’d already had a crush on him when he’d become a vampire, and even he didn’t know when it

changed and became something deeper and lasting. Ray looked outside, tears prickling his eyes as he saw the house. It was still there, and from the looks of it, it was unoccupied. A knock on the door. “Ray, are you ready to go?” Eve asked from outside. “Visiting hours at the hospital will be over soon.” “Just a minute, Eve.” he said aloud. Damn! He had forgotten about changing. He dragged his suitcase on to the bed and opened it, pulling out the first clean pair of clothes he could find. His packing had always been haphazard. He would have liked to have had a shower, but there just wasn’t enough time. “Ray!” Dan sounded impatient. “Just a minute!” He was an idiot. He pulled off his clothes, kicked them to a side, pulling on the fresh clothes and started buttoning his shirt as he opened the door. At least he knew how to undress and dress in less than two minutes.

Chapter Seven

The drive to the hospital was uneventful and they reached before visiting hours ended. No thanks to Ray! Perhaps it wasn’t the kindest thought, but Eve was not feeling kind. Ray was an ass, and he should be grateful for everything they had done for him. Instead, he was blaming them and accusing them of treating him like an outcast. Did he even have any idea how much he had hurt them all? And then he had run off halfway across the globe and wouldn’t even come home. Dan led them to the lift. “Dad’s in the third floor. He’s much better now. The doctors think he can be discharged within a few days.” “Who’s staying with him?” Ray asked. “Other than Mom?” “Anton’s there, but he’ll be coming home with you and I’ll be staying with Dad tonight. I’ve told Mom to go home as well. She needs some rest. One of you can relieve me tomorrow morning.” “I’ll do that.” Ray said. As if it would make up for everything he had done. Eve wanted to make a scathing reply, like “Why? Feeling guilty about abandoning us?” but she kept quiet. It was hardly the place and was certainly not the right time. Besides, she was ready to it to herself that she was afraid to open that particular can of worms. That was why she kept distracting Dan whenever he tried to bring it up. She wasn’t afraid of Ray’s reactions, but she was afraid of the real reason why he had left. Because she was the only one who had an inkling. The rest of her family were clueless, even their mother. They stopped before a closed door and Dan knocked. Anton opened the door, his face splitting into a wide grin as he saw them. “Dad’s asleep,” he whispered as they came inside. “Sedatives, I think. Mom just went down to the cafeteria to

have dinner.” They sat on the other bed, which was crowded with all three of them sitting. “Why don’t you go and have dinner too?” Dan asked. “We’ll stay with Dad.” “Okay.” Anton said. “It has been almost fifteen minutes since Mom went. She should be back soon.” Once Anton left, Eve could see her father clearly. He was asleep, his head cradled on his palm, and a blanket tucked around him. There was an IV line on his other hand, and now that no one was speaking she could hear the sounds made by the heart monitor on his other side. He looked the same, his iron-grey hair was tousled, his wrinkled face peaceful. Somehow, seeing him reassured her. He looked as he always did. He didn’t look like he was sick. That must mean he was all right. The door to the room opened and their mother entered, beaming at them. “Ray, Eve!” she said and they went towards her. She hugged them both, smiling wide. “Anton told me you had come, you’ve no idea how happy I am to see you both.” She took a step back, her hands still on their shoulders and her eyes scrutinising them. “You look good,” she said to Ray. “A bit tired and anxious, but good.” She looked at Eve and her eyes softened even more. “You look so beautiful.” she said. “You look good too, Mom,” Ray said, kissing her on the cheek. Eve wished she could say the same, but the truth was Mom’s appearance shocked her. She didn’t look good. She looked haggard and old. Eve couldn’t her mother ever looking old. There was so much sadness in her eyes and Eve could see the bone deep weariness etched into each line on her face. Her mother had never looked like that, not even when Ray was a vampire and was staying in the house right across the street and they had to see him every day. Her eyes moved to her Dad. Was he not okay? But Dan said the doctors said he could be discharged. Why would they do that if he wasn’t all right? But if he was, then why was Mom looking so sad? Why did she look as if she had aged a hundred years in the six months since Eve had seen her the last? Her mom sat down on a chair at the foot of Dad’s bed and Eve squeezed in between her brothers on the narrow bed. There was also a cushioned armchair, but she didn't

want to sit on that. She wanted to stay close to them. They chatted about inconsequential things, about the vampire Ray was hunting, about the rogue Eve had killed last month, about Dan’s boring day job, and Mom talked about her book club and of the people who were part of it. Eve leaned against Ray and his arm came around her. She sighed, glad she hadn’t picked a fight with him. “I’m sorry about earlier.” he whispered against her hair. She gave his other hand a tiny squeeze. She had never been able to stay angry at him for long. He was her baby brother after all. Anton came back soon, and took the armchair. He talked about his fiancé and about their visit to his parents. Eve swallowed the envy she couldn’t help feeling as Dan and Anton talked of their partners. She had had that once, till a rogue vampire had taken it away along with her brother and she wasn’t sure she would ever find that again. Nancy had been her soulmate, and there would never be another. Ray yawned. “Shouldn’t we be heading home?” he asked. “I’m really tired.” “So am I.” Mom said. “I’m not sure I’ll be able to sleep without Ned, but I've got to try.” The words sounded so ominous and Eve swallowed all the questions that rose to her mind. Did she want to know if Dad was not going to be okay? Did she have the courage or the fortitude to face that? She didn’t think so. The drive back was silent, Ray kept yawning and Anton was leaning back in the seat, his eyes closed. Eve glanced at Mom, who was looking out of the window, but it was clear that she was distracted. Her fingers were twined together tightly, so tightly that all the knuckles stood out white. Eve looked out of the window, swallowing her fears and questions. If only she weren’t such a fucking coward!

Chapter Eight

Alistair opened the door slowly. The house remained exactly as it had been. He would have been highly surprised if it wasn’t. He did pay someone an exorbitant amount for its upkeep, after all. Might have been cheaper to sell the house; it was abysmally sentimental, foolishly so, to have kept it. But he had had it for close to two centuries now, though he never stayed in it longer than three or four years at a time. Besides, he liked the Haspels. The family of hunters had always got on well with him. Till Ray. Perhaps it had been foolish of him to have assumed that since the Haspels didn’t blame him for it and since Ray was back to being human, they were all right with what he had done. Till Evelyn Haspel had come for him with a stake in her hand and murder in her heart, he had fooled himself. Perhaps Eve was simply acting on her own, and the words she spoke were only her feelings. Perhaps not. Which was one reason why he had come back. If the Haspels were conspiring against him, it would be better to keep an eye on them. It would also give Ray a chance to ask him to break the bond instead of sending others. Not that he had sent his sister, but he had asked Magnus. Alistair sat down on his favourite armchair. Magnus had been very decisive. If he was not going to do as he was told, he faced exile. He should not expect any help from the vampire council. Alistair had never liked blackmail and he had never responded well to threats, so he had been angry and had kicked Magnus out of his house. Now that he had had time to think, he knew he had made a mistake. He had two courses left open to him. He could apologise to Magnus and break the bond, but that course didn’t appeal to him. Perhaps it was foolish, but he had his pride. The other course was to defy Magnus and forego the community of his kind. That too didn’t appeal to him. If Ray were to ask him, though, he could break the bond, and Ray would go back and find the rogue vampire and Magnus would know that he had done what was needed and everything would be all right. Vampires, for all their longevity, didn’t hold grudges. All would be well. If Ray asked him.

He looked out the window at the sun going down. He could go out to hunt, find some drunk tourist or local, or he could make do with the refrigerated blood he always carried with him. He could also visit Ned. The visiting hours at the hospital would be over now, and Ned was probably asleep. Perhaps he could go to the Haspels’ house and meet Daphne. It was just across the street after all. Alistair had never thought of himself as a coward, but he was beginning to think that he was. He didn’t want to go there and know that Daphne, Ned, Dan and Anton probably shared Eve’s sentiments. It had been such a shock when he had seen Eve there. He had fended off many an attack on his life, but it must have been the first time he had let his attacker leave unscathed. Anyone else he would have killed, and not lost sleep over it either, but he could not bring himself to kill Eve. Because when he looked at her, he still saw the girl she had been, he still saw her pain, and he had been there when Shane died and Nancy and Tate with him, and he had seen Eve’s devastation, and he had been sorry for her, that she was still carrying it, that she was still hurting and he had let her go with a threat to tell her mother. He smiled to himself as he thought of her reaction to his threat. No wonder. Daphne was scary when she chose to be. He rose. He would go out to hunt. He needed a distraction. Because it really did hurt to think Ned and Daphne might hate him. They had been friends for so long, and he had helped them, and… he sighed. He shouldn’t have trusted humans, and hunters at that. He shouldn’t have got emotionally attached to them. His thoughts were interrupted by the doorbell. He frowned. Who could it be? No one knew he was coming. No one except the man he paid to keep the house in repair. But he had already met him. So, who could it be? He went to the door, cautious. He had already been ambushed once. He wasn’t going to be again. It smelled like Daphne, but her blood type was fairly common, and he had forgotten the rhythm of her heart and breathing, just like he had Ned's. “Alistair?” Daphne sounded impatient. “Is it you in there?” He opened the door. She stood there, tired, but the smile she gave him was warm and reached her eyes. “It is you,” she smiled as she stepped forward and hugged him. “Welcome back home,” It was as if a huge weight was lifted off his soul. He felt light, free as he hugged

her back. “Thank you,” he said, unable to keep the emotion from his voice. “I’m happy you’re back.” she said, letting him go, but still keeping her hands on his arms. “Ned would be glad too. We’ve missed you.” “I missed you too.” he said. “But I thought it best if I stayed away, at least for a while.” “You know none of us blame you for what happened to Ray.” she said. “I know.” he said, avoiding her eyes. “I just reached, so things aren’t… I can’t even offer you a drink, but do come in, Daphne. You look tired.” “I was in the hospital since… I thought I should have a night’s sleep before I keel over too.” “Good decision.” he said. “How’s Ned?” She shook her head. “Not good… his heart… it’s too far gone to operate or treat with medicines… so they’re allowing him to come home… the kids think… I haven’t told them… how do I tell them when...” “When you haven’t accepted it yourself.” he said softly, understanding. He didn’t want to think of Ned dying. He didn’t come home to lose his friend. He wouldn’t think of it now. Now, Daphne needed him, and he could be there for her, He hugged her. “You’ll find a way.” he said. Perhaps it wasn’t the best thing to say, but she relaxed and sighed. “I have to, somehow… I just… I don’t know what I’ll do without him...” There was nothing he could say to make it easier, and so he stayed silent. He could let her grieve without guilt or judgement, something humans were so bad at. It was all he had to offer his friend, and he hoped it would be enough. She drew a shuddering breath and wept.

Chapter Nine

Ray couldn’t sleep. Perhaps it was being here after so many years. Perhaps it was worry about Dad. Perhaps it was his body trying to adjust to the new time zone. Perhaps it was the rogue vampire he was supposed to be hunting. Perhaps it was all of that. He just couldn’t sleep, and he needed to. He could feel his own exhaustion. At times like this, he could feel it in the recesses of his mind, the bond with Alistair, like a buzzing in the back of his head, something that was hardly noticeable till he paid attention. It wasn’t doing anything. Alistair wasn’t doing anything with it as he used to when Ray was still a vampire. At that time, the bond was a tether, connecting him to his sire, and Alistair always knew where Ray was, even though he kept his end closed so Ray never knew if Alistair would be home or not. It was as if, after making him a vampire, Alistair wasn’t interested in him anymore. Not that Ray could blame him, after what he had done. Ray had lived in his house and his needs had been provided for, but Alistair and he had rarely seen each other for almost seven years, before Alistair had come home one weekend and had declared he had enough travel. Ray tried not to think of it all, of learning to hunt for the first time, of realising how much he had missed Alistair, of realising he was falling all over again in the three years Alistair and he stayed in the same house. The bond had felt like a real connection, something that only the two of them shared. Alistair used to tell him about his past, though that was so far back and on earth. Ray had lapped up all those stories, loved it that Alistair was sharing parts of himself. And all the while, he had been working on betraying him. I ought to be grateful. Ray gave his pillow a thump. Stupid thing. Stupid him, still pining after the vampire who didn’t even want him when he was a vampire. He hoped Magnus would succeed in persuading Alistair to break the bond. It wasn’t anything, it never did anything, but it still was a painful reminder of his stupidity and he didn’t want it any more. It felt foreign, as if it didn't belong, and it didn't. He was

a human, and the bond was for vampires. It was best to let it go. He sat up on the bed, giving up on the attempt to sleep. Before leaving, he had called Magnus and had told him to Grimes and have him send everything he had to him. Perhaps he could still work on the case. He turned on the lights and went to his old desk. It was the desk on which he used to do his homework and Alistair had got him a similar one because though he was a vampire, Ray was still in school and there had been no conceivable reason to drop out. Why was even the stuff in his old room reminding him of Alistair? He needed to get a life, date, be like everyone else. This obsession couldn’t be healthy. Sex with strangers definitely wasn’t. Refusing to form real connections was a recipe for disaster. Staying away from his family was not the best idea. Except there was a part of him that couldn’t forgive them for turning him human again. He knew it, even when he knew that never again would he choose to be a vampire. It was only after losing it that he realised how much being human had meant to him, how much being a hunter and a Haspel had meant to him, how much each and every member of his family had meant to him. And now he had all of that back. He should be more grateful. Enough with the past. He plugged in his computer, switched it on and waited for it to start up, stretching in his chair. It wasn’t unheard of, vampires killing their sires, but it was rare. The bond could be manipulated from both ends after a few centuries. Any vampire could learn to shut it down. Finding a vampire through the bond wasn’t the easiest way, so why would the rogue have killed the one who had turned him? I will know when I find him. He opened his mail, and the attachments Magnus had sent him. There was the list of witnesses, witness interviews, more photographs of the victims, and of the crime scenes, the layouts of the rooms, the buildings, and Grimes’ conclusions. Ray went through the statements first. There were enough similarities in the statements and enough common points to make Grimes’ conclusion that it was a rogue vampire credible, though none of the victims had been drained of blood. There were bite marks on their necks though, as if a feral animal had just ripped

their throat out. Even a first glance at the photographs was enough to indicate that the killings were the work of vampires. They look like revenge kills. Except the victims had nothing in common. They came from different parts of the city, worked at jobs that had no connection to one another, had no common acquaintances, didn’t have the same sexual orientation or relationship status or gender, didn’t even drink at the same pub. Revenge kills weren’t uncommon either, especially when vampires were newly turned. Whatever grudge they held as humans didn’t go away as a vampire and the length of the transition process and the pain of it caused them to be almost feral. That was why the sire bond was so important. It kept that part of them in check till the phase ed. Had the vampire killed his sire while in that phase and went on a killing spree, killing whoever they held grudges against? It was also possible that they were a psychopath. Mental illnesses didn’t go away when one became a vampire. Only physical illnesses were cured. So, it was likely that a human psychopath was turned and had done all this. Ray read through the witness statements again, making notes, comparing, contrasting. More than the mystery of who the vampire was, there was the mystery of how he had gained egress to the houses of the victims. They would have needed to invite him in. Grimes had thought that he was someone familiar to them, but Surrey had put a question mark in the margin and had written, “check for delivery boys.” That of course was a needle in a haystack, but it was more likely. Food delivery boys were often invited in while the customers went to get the money. Grimes had had it checked, though and the same outlet didn’t service the victims. Not even the same company outlet. So, unless the vampire fooled all the different outlets into believing he worked for them, had tricked the phone companies into tapping the victims’ phones in the hope that they would order food, it was an impossibility. It was a long shot anyway. He checked the deeds to the places, and the leases just to be certain. Sometimes the houses were owned by vampires or the owner would be dead and his family wouldn’t have bothered to get the name in the title changed or there would be no

valid leases, but in this case, all the victims held titles or leases, so that was a dead end too. Something was niggling at the back of his mind, but he was too tired to pay attention. There was something here, but the words on the screen were starting to jumble and he yawned. He needed to sleep. He turned on the computer and went to bed, looking out of the window at Alistair’s house, almost like a reflex. He stopped as he saw the light flickering behind the curtains. The house was occupied. It could be nothing. Alistair had often talked of selling the house. Owning real estate was problematic for vampires. People could start getting curious, could start digging. An overzealous city clerk was all it took sometimes. It was possible Alistair had sold the house. Perhaps they had been away which was why there was no one there earlier. Or perhaps he had just assumed it was unoccupied based on the closed door and windows. “Fuck!” Ray muttered. His sleep was gone. He turned back to the computer again. At least he could get some work done. The whole thing didn’t make much sense. The fact that no one saw or heard anything and that they were all asleep without any awareness of what was happening indicated a vampire who was old enough to have mastered his abilities. And yet, his actions seemed to belong to a young one in the feral phase. Older ones would have hidden their kills. Unless… unless it was deliberate. The savagery of the murders and the openness. He could have been sending a message to the community and the council. If so, why? Nothing made any sense. He got up and went to the window again. Should he? Did he want to? What if it was Alistair? Do I want to see him again? He snorted in derision. That was an easy question to answer, wasn’t it? He went back to the computer. He would probably feel shitty in the morning and Dad might be worried, but going back to bed wasn’t going to help either. It had been years since Ray had had a sleepless night. It was no big deal, though. The victims. The crime scenes. The witnesses. The police reports. The autopsy

reports. There was something he was missing. Something important, but he just could not put his finger on it. “Fuck it all.” he muttered.

Chapter Ten

It was the banging on the door that woke him. “Ray! Aren’t you up yet?” Anton sounded impatient and exasperated. “We’ve to go to the hospital in 30 minutes. Ray!” “’kay,” he mumbled, wincing as he sat up. He had fallen asleep at his computer. He shook his head and rotated his neck and stood up to stretch. “I’ll be there in a minute.” “You better be.” Anton said and the banging stopped. Ray yawned, rotating his neck again. He couldn’t at what time he’d fallen asleep. He checked his phone and saw that it was almost 9. The visiting hours started at 10. Everyone must be eager to get to the hospital by then. As much as he wanted to see Dad, he dreaded it as well. He wasn’t certain what to expect, but he knew he would be gutted if he were to see even a hint of disappointment. He was out of the room, showered and ready within 20 minutes. “Had breakfast?” Mom asked. “Not hungry.” he said, which was true. “Have some juice at least.” she said, pouring it for him. He accepted the glass and the two slices of toast that she handed to him. She used to do this whenever anyone said they weren’t hungry. “The traffic might be killer at this hour,” Anton said. “We may be late.” “It’s not the end of the world if we’re a few minutes late, Anton.” Mom said. “Let Ray finish his breakfast.” She paused. “I’ll be going with Alistair.” Ray choked and coughed and Eve started thumping him between the shoulder

blades, her voice shocked as she asked. “Alistair?” “He’s back.” Mom said. “And I know Ned would love to see him. We’ve missed him.” Ray’s fit of coughing was over, but he couldn’t speak. He could hear the others speaking and his mind ed the words, but nothing made any sense. “Is he going to stay long?” Anton asked. “Because I would love to introduce Bruce to him. He never believed it when I said I knew Alistair.” “Anton!” Eve looked angry and upset. “What the hell! It’s not as if he’s a movie star.” “He’s one of the oldest vampires.” Anton said. “He’s famous among hunters. What’s your problem?” “Are we just going to stand here and pretend that he didn’t turn Ray?” Eve demanded, her voice shaking. “How can you all… he’s not our friend! He’s the enemy!” “That’s enough, Eve!” Mom said, her voice sharp, at which point Ray’s faculty for speech returned. “That was my fault, Eve. If you must blame someone, blame me. I went to him. That was on me.” It hurt to say the words and he deliberately kept his gaze down, not daring to look at them and see the disappointment, the hurt, the pity in their eyes. “You were sixteen!” Eve said. “You didn’t know any better!” “I’m a Haspel for god’s sake!” Ray said, impatiently. “I knew enough, Eve. We all did, even Shane. So, don’t hide behind my age which had nothing to do with it, okay? I chose it; it was me.” He paused and looked at his mother. “I’m glad you’re still friends with him, Mom, you and Dad. He’s one of your oldest friends. It was my fault, anyway.” “No one’s faulting you, Ray,” Mom said softly. “No one, do you hear me? You’re the only one blaming yourself. It wasn’t your fault, and it certainly

wasn’t Alistair’s. It was a combination of circumstances… but Ned and I always felt it was our fault that you felt you couldn’t come to us with the things that were bothering you.” Ray wanted to scream. It was no one else’s fault? Why couldn’t anyone understand that he was to blame? He wanted to be with Alistair. That was the long and short of it. “We only ever blamed ourselves.” she said. “I was… reeling, and coping after Shane’s death, and... Ned was coping in his own way, and we also had to be there for Larry and Pen because they lost their children, and Dan was busy looking after Anton, and Eve was grieving and … we none of us had time for you… you lost your twin and none of us had time for you...” Ray’s throat was tight and it felt as if there was a roaring in his ears. “It wasn’t about, Shane.” He forced out. “Ray,” Mom started. “It wasn’t about Shane, Mom.” he said. “We were all… we were grieving… all of us… I just… Alistair understood, and yes, it hurt… it still does, so much if I think about it, but that wasn’t why...” He drew a deep breath. He could do this. Get the truth out in the open, because he didn’t want his family to blame themselves or Alistair for something that was completely and unequivocally his fault. “I wanted the pain to be gone, but that wasn’t why I asked Alistair to turn me. I… I was in love with him, and I wanted to be with him. That was why. It had nothing to do with Shane, or you not having time or anything.” He was again looking at the ground, just not able to look him in the face. “Oh Ray,” his mother whispered, such a wealth of expression in those two words and Ray felt tears prickling his eyes. “It still doesn’t mean he should have done it.” Eve said, her voice quiet. “We… he was our friend; he knew us as children…we’ve… we’ve invited him into our home… he shouldn’t have done it.” “He’s a vampire.” Anton said, as if it was self-evident. If only it were that simple! Ray no longer had a choice. He had to defend Alistair, he had to tell the truth, because, fuck it, it was not Alistair’s fault and he

couldn’t let his family think that Alistair just turned him as soon as a besotted teenager asked him to. “He had no choice.” he said, looking at Eve. “I forced him.” Eve opened her mouth as if to argue, but Ray was done with arguments and prevarications and lying. Let the truth out. “I poisoned myself.” he said. “It would have been too late by the time he got me to a hospital. Turning me was the only way to save my life.” He saw the horror dawning on Eve’s face, the shocked exhalation from Anton and the soft, ‘oh’ that fell from his mother’s lips. “Like I said,”—he said, his voice not quite steady, —“it was my fault.” The silence that enveloped them was the loudest thing Ray had ever experienced. He avoided looking at them. At least now they know the truth. His mother’s arms enveloped him in a hug and Anton and Eve ed her and it didn’t make any sense. They should be angry, they should be horrified; they shouldn’t be comforting him, but he couldn’t help but hug them back, and wish that this would never end, this moment.

Chapter Eleven

The ride to the hospital was silent, but it was not a comfortable silence. It was heavy, fraught with tension, and Eve felt it smother her. Despite that hug, now that Mom was not with them, she found herself with nothing to say. Anton was equally silent, sitting next to Ray. Mom had told them she would follow, with Alistair. Alistair. Eve didn’t know how she would face him after having tried to kill him the last time she’d seen him. Was she supposed to apologise? But, how could she? Ray was still her baby brother. Even though Ray had made it sound like Alistair’s hand was forced, she was not ready to accept it. How could he know? How could he be certain? Perhaps he could have taken Ray to the hospital in time. He could have informed them. Was Ray even telling the truth? If he was, then why had Alistair said nothing when she had confronted him? She felt suffocated. The memory of her futile attempt on Alistair’s life was choking her. She wished she had the courage to confide in Mom, or Dad, but Dad wasn’t well, and Mom had enough on her plate. What if Alistair told her parents? True, he had threatened he would tell Mom if she ever tried something like that again, but what if he decided to tell Mom anyway? She couldn’t let that happen. She had either to talk to Alistair and beg him to keep her secret, or she had to pluck up the courage and tell Mom herself. Mom might be angry, and disappointed, but she would still forgive her. She would understand. She always did. A soft sigh escaped her lips and Anton turned towards her, a questioning look on his face. She shook her head, letting him know there was nothing to worry about. There wasn’t. Nothing he could help her with anyway. “I’m sorry.” Ray said, breaking the silence. Eve wished she could have the silence back. “Ray,” Anton said quietly. “It’s… It sucks to be honest, what you did, but… you

were a child and you had just suffered the first and biggest loss in your life, and no one had any time for you, so it was natural that you should have gone to extreme ends to get what you wanted. Don’t beat yourself up about it. You’re back now. That’s all that matters.” Eve wanted to bring up the bond, but it wasn't her secret, and the one who had told her had done so in confidence and she couldn’t betray that. She had known about Ray’s feelings for Alistair. She had known, and had done nothing; she had not even talked to him about it. It didn’t matter what Ray said or believed. The fact of the matter was Ray had been alone, with no one to pay attention to him at a time he needed it the most. Otherwise, she would have told Mom or Mom would even have guessed the truth. They would have taken care of Ray, of his fragile heart and his naive mind. They would have protected him. But he had been alone and he had chosen something that he wouldn’t have if he wasn’t emotionally vulnerable. Would anyone tell Dad? Mom had already said they couldn’t tell him. She would tell him, but she hadn't said when. Presumably when he had recovered. But was he even going to recover? The doctors had talked only to Mom, and Dan and Anton might simply have assumed that Dad was all right since they were allowed to take him home. But sometimes they allowed people to go home when there wasn’t anything else they could do for them, didn’t they? Eve didn’t want to think of Dad dying, but why else would Mom be looking so despondent? She suppressed a sigh. Her brothers were blind, and she had never realised just how much. They only saw Mom’s smile, but Eve saw how that smile almost never reached her eyes and how they remained sad. She wished she could ask Mom outright what was wrong, but it was the grief in Mom’s eyes that stopped her as much as her own fear. Fear of knowing she was about to lose her father, and fear of hurting her mother. But… they all deserved the truth. If Dad was going to die, they needed to say their goodbyes. If Dad was going to die, Dan and Ray couldn’t go back to where they lived as if nothing was wrong. If Dad was dying, perhaps he would like to see his only grandchild. Not the only one. Eve brushed the thought aside, looking down, afraid that someone would see the tears that had gathered in her eyes. She was trying not to cry, but she didn’t want

to lose her father. She wanted to know the truth, but she also dreaded it. She stuffed her fist into her mouth to muffle the sob that broke from her throat. Deep breaths, Eve. You can do this. Deep breaths. Nothing was helping, and frankly, nothing would help, but she did regain her composure. Why was she like this now? She hadn’t cried or been this emotional in years. Not since… she clamped her lips tight and wiped her eyes. She was not going to think of that. She was over it. Why the hell did it feel like she had an empty hole inside her? The car stopped. Eve checked her face on the small mirror in her bag. Her eyes were red rimmed, but not swollen. Her face was red as well, but that was all. She had put on the waterproof make up that Dy had been pushing her to try, and it did look like it worked. She ought to tell Dy. The hospital was larger than she ed. She hadn’t noticed anything the previous night, tired, worried and excited all at the same time. Even so, how could she not have noticed? They had added at least one wing, and modernised the exterior. It was a far cry from the building she ed from her youth, the one they had to every day to go to school. It somehow made her feel betrayed that it should have changed so much and caught up with the times. Everyone and everything moves forward, except for me. It was a depressing thought and she didn’t need any more of them.

Chapter Twelve

Daphne smiled and got into the car, but Alistair could tell immediately that something was wrong. He had known her long enough to read her at a glance. It could just have been worry about Ned, but he didn’t think so. Did she get into a fight with her children? “Shall we go?” Daphne asked. He set the destination to the hospital and keyed in the command, before turning to her. “So, what happened?” She shook her head and opened her mouth, but he forestalled her. “Don’t say it’s nothing, all right? If you can’t talk about it or you don’t want to talk about it, it’s fine, but don’t say nothing and dismiss your own feelings.” She smiled at him. “I always forget how much older and wiser you are than all of us.” “I’m not a wise old man.” he said lightly. He was a sentimental fool was what he was, one who never learned his lesson. “Age doesn’t equate wisdom, Daphne.” “I know,” she sighed. “Can I just say you’re a good friend and a sensible one?” He suppressed a derisive snort. If he were sensible, he wouldn’t have come to Vrelsk when he heard Ned was sick. If he were sensible, he would have done as Magnus asked and saved himself the possibility of being an outcast. If he were sensible, he would have killed Eve after she had tried to kill him. If he were sensible, he would tell Daphne what really happened with Ray, instead of trying to protect him. He was, not to put too fine a point on it, a damn idiot. “Ray told us what happened.” she said abruptly, breaking the silence that had fallen, shattering it like glass, and the shards were everywhere, piercing his skin, his heart, his lungs and he was choking on them, unable to speak. “He told us,” she repeated. “And… Ned and I had always known, you know, not that Ray

would do something like that, but that you… that you wouldn’t have done it just because Ray had asked… that you… you’re a good friend and you saved his life and we… we were angry with you, even when… even though we knew that there had to be something we were missing. We knew you, and yet we… we never thought to question him when we got him back...” “Daphne,” He swallowed around something that was choking him. Ray had told them? That was something he would never have expected. “Don’t blame yourselves for whatever you thought. He was your son, and I was your friend. You thought I’d betrayed you. It was perfectly natural. I’m glad he decided to come clean.” He could have laughed at the dry tone that came out of his mouth. No wonder she thought him sensible. He did sound so unemotional, so sensible. “Thank you.” Daphne said. “You saved his life. It must have been… traumatic for you, but you did it anyway. I’m sorry he put you through that.” Alistair shrugged. “He was sixteen. He was a child, and he was hurting. He didn’t know any better. It’s in the past.” “Alistair,” she began, and he shook his head. “It’s in the past, Daphne.” he said, trying not to sound weary. He felt weary, and when had that happened? “I’ve put it behind me, and so should you all. Ray is back now.” “Yes, and he… he’s a hunter, and he’s better than us, though he would never see it that way. He thinks the years he spent as a vampire has affected his ability to be a good hunter.” Alistair snorted aloud this time. “He’s a damn fool.” Look who’s talking! “He had always been impulsive and headstrong, but also sensitive, and so, so emotional…” she smiled. “They were both like that. Shane and Ray. It changed him, you know, Shane’s death. He might not agree, but it did change him.” “If you’re trying to justify what Ray did,”—Alistair said quietly,—“you don’t

have to. I get it, Daphne. Believe me, I do. Don’t forget that I’d known him virtually all his life. I know what he was like, and the Ray who came to me after Shane’s death… that wasn’t the same … it was like he grew up overnight, became this whole other person that I’d never met before… a stranger who wore Ray’s face.” He hadn’t meant to say so much, but she nodded as if she understood. Perhaps she did. Because the Ray who she had got back as a human was also a stranger. He had grown up and changed while a vampire and though his body reverted to that of his sixteen-year-old self, he didn’t lose his memories of the intervening ten years. “He had been a man trapped in a child’s body when he came back to us.” she said softly. “And none of us knew how to treat him, especially Anton… his big brother was suddenly younger than him… and we… we didn’t even know what to do. He had a job when he was a vampire, but suddenly he was sixteen and no longer could go back to work… he couldn’t go to school, because he had already finished school, and even otherwise, how would we explain his age to anyone? He spent five years doing part time jobs and learning, and he left the day after he turned twenty-one, and never came back, and we… none of us felt we had the right to ask him to stay or come back…” Alistair didn’t say anything, but he understood. He had seen how much Ray had changed. The boy he had left behind was not the man he had come back to. “I’m glad he told you.” he said before the silence could become more oppressive. “I need to find a way to tell Ned.” she said. “Any other time, I could have waited, said it wasn’t the right time, but now… if I wait, I may never get to tell him, and I want to. He needs to know.” “Daphne, if it’s on my -” he began. She shook her head. “He needs to know. He would want to know. We… as I said, we both thought things, not very charitable things, about you, and… still in the end, we had to ask you for help, and you didn’t let us down… you betrayed Ray for us...” “It was hardly a betrayal,” Alistair said. “It was the right thing to do, and it was in Ray’s best interests.”

“Don’t tell me it didn’t hurt you.” she said. “We know, Alistair. We may not understand, but we do know that it wasn’t as easy as you make it seem.” “To lose a fledgling.” Alistair said quietly. “It does hurt. It felt like I was ripping my still beating heart out, but that doesn’t change the fact that it needed to be done.” “It would have hurt Ray just as badly.” she said after a moment. “Worse, I would assume, because of his trust in me.” It hurt so bloody much even to speak the words, but he wasn't sparing himself. The pain Ray had gone through might have been unimaginable. “And yet you did it, knowing that it would probably alienate Ray forever.” The expression in her eyes were warm, though her eyes were full. “You did that for us. We knew then what we had suspected all along, that you wouldn’t have done what you did without compelling reasons. That’s why Ned needs to know, if only to feel he was right about you, and he may not have a chance again. So, yes, I have to tell him. I just don’t know how.” “You’ll figure it out.” he said softly. “You always do.” “I’m glad you’re here.” she said, just as the car stopped. “Daphne.” he said. “I’ll come in after your children have left, if that’s all right with you.” Her eyes held understanding. “Of course.” she said.

Chapter Thirteen

The hospital was too big, the corridors too long. Had it been so the last time? Not yesterday, when he’d come to see Dad, but the last time, when they had come to see Shane and he had stood near a metal and glass room and saw his twin's dead body. Ray hadn’t thought of Shane in years. He hadn’t needed to, because it was always there. Buried under his skin, burned into his insides, the knowledge that Shane was gone, that he was incomplete, broken, irreparably damaged, because the other half of his soul was torn from him. Shane’s loss was a phantom pain that never left, and he had got used to living with it now. So, no, he hadn’t thought of Shane. He never had to think of Shane. Anton led him through the corridors till they reached Dad’s room and Ray could feel his mouth go dry. He hadn’t seen Dad in seven years. Video calls didn’t really count. Whenever his parents had offered to visit him, he had found excuses to be out of town till finally they had stopped offering. Now, standing here, he could not think of a single valid reason why he should have shut his family off the way he had. No wonder they blamed themselves. Did they think he blamed them? Did they think that was why he ran? Dan opened the door, smiling at them. “Dad's awake,” he said. “And being difficult.” “Mom will handle it.” Anton said, grinning. “He thinks he can get away with things if she isn't there. You just need to play deaf till she gets here.” None of it made any sense, but Ray smiled. They probably expected it. Eve and he followed Anton into the room. Dad was sitting on the bed, looking sulky, but his expression changed, morphing into a wide smile as he saw them. “Eve! Ray! You're here! I didn't believe Dan when he told me.” “And why is that?” Eve asked, mock indignation colouring her tone as she bent down to kiss Dad on his cheek and hug him loosely. “Just being foolish in my old age.” Dad smiled at her, hugging her with the arm that didn't have the IV line.

Ray sat down at the foot of the bed. “So, Dan says you can go home soon.” “That's what the doctors say.” Dad nodded. “I can't wait to go home, to tell you the truth. The food here is awful, and they don't even feed me properly.” “So, Ray, tell Dad about the case.” Anton said, giving him a wink. “Not every day Magnus comes to a hunter for help.” “Magnus asked for your help?” Dad asked, sounding pleased. “That has to be a hell of a case.” “It looks like a rogue vampire.” Ray said. “But it... It's like they're still in the feral stage, but there's also some inconsistencies with that theory.” “Must we talk shop?” Eve groaned. “That's all we ever talk about.” Ray chuckled. “As if you weren't interested yesterday.” There was a knock on the door. “Must be Mom.” Anton said. It was. Ray smiled at her, and Dad's whole face lit up, and Mom's smile was brighter than it had been the previous evening. “Have the kids been entertaining you?” she asked as she bent to kiss him. “Have you had breakfast? And your medicines?” “Yes to all,” he said. “Though I don't see why I can't have breakfast like I used to at home. They only gave me toast. Nothing else.” “Naturally,” she said, smiling, sounding amused. “They can't have you dropping dead now, can they? They're supposed to cure you, not make you worse.” “Food never killed anyone.” Dad declared. “It's lack of food that kills people.” “Poisoned tea is technically food.” Dan said. “Wasn't it that killed Gus?” “Well, the doctors won't be giving me poison now, would they?” Dad asked, sounding exasperated. “I don't think doctors prepare the food that patients eat.” Ray said, without

smiling. “But of course, I'm not a doctor, so I could be wrong.” Anton, Eve and Dan roared with laughter, and Mom chuckled. “They're making fun of me,” Dad said in an injured tone. “You heard them, Daph? They're making fun of their sick father.” At which they all started laughing again, with Dad ing in, though he pressed a hand to his chest and stopped almost immediately. “It hurts if I laugh too much.” He grimaced. “What kind of a heart hurts if you laugh too much? That's crazy, isn't it? Stupid organ.” The door opened and a doctor walked inside, accompanied by a nurse. “So, how are you today, Ned?” the doctor asked, smiling. “Ready to go home?” “Can't wait.” Dad smiled. “These are my children, Josephine. Do you Eve and Ray? Do you all Josephine?” As if any of them could forget. Ray smiled at her. “Of course, I . We were in the same class in high school.” “I too.” She smiled at him. “God, Ray, you look so young! How do you manage that?” Ray grinned, though his heart was hammering. “Comes of having an easy job, I should think,” he said lightly. “I wish I had one,” she said. “No sun and sand for me, I'm afraid.” She turned to Dad with a smile. “So, how are you today?” “I'll be fine if you people would feed me properly,” he said, looking sulky. “We're thinking you'd want to live long enough.” She smiled at him before turning to them. “I need to examine Ned, so if all of you except Daphne can just step outside? It could take a while.” “Go to the cafeteria and have something.” Mom said. “Bring a coffee for me and unsweetened black tea for Ned when you return.”

“Unsweetened-” Dad's voice rose in protest as they exited the room. “That's an ongoing fight.” Anton chuckled. “Only Mom can handle him when he starts being unreasonable.” “It's only for a short time, isn't it?” Ray asked. “I mean he can have an almost normal diet soon, can't he?” “I never expected Josephine to become a doctor.” Dan said. “Nor I,” Ray said, ing the arch nemesis of his high school days. “You used to utterly loathe her.” Eve chuckled. “You and Shane, both.” “Yeah,” he shrugged, trying not to think of those days. “Children do a lot of things.” “Including being tiresome little shits,” Dan said. “I always figured one of you must have had a crush on her.” Ray's throat closed up, but he managed to roll his eyes and say, “You should write books. That's some imagination.” “What did I say?” Dan shrugged. “Little shit.” “You asked for it, to be fair.” Anton said. “Oh of course, you're taking his side,” Dan said, sounding injured. “Why am I not surprised?” “Stop being a drama queen.” Anton grinned. It was strange being here and in the midst of all this. Ray couldn't the last time he had felt this - light was the only word he could think of. It was as if his chest was expanding, filling with something other than fear or grief or loss. It was a good feeling. I should come home more often. Visit them more often. He would too. Once he caught the rogue vampire, he would. Right this moment, it didn't even matter that Alistair and he still shared the sire bond. So, what if

they did? It wasn't doing anything. They took their seats in the cafeteria, and Eve said, “I'm sorry, I tried, but I can't... I'm sorry.” “Eve?” Dan asked. “What are you talking about?” “Dad,” she said. “I think he's going to die!”

Chapter Fourteen

Ray felt the bubble inside him burst and he couldn't speak. Why would Eve say something so horrible? Why would she even think something like that? “How did you guess?” Dan asked even as Anton sighed and looked away. Ray found his voice, if that squeaky unsteady thing could be called a voice. “Do you mean-” He cleared his throat and clenched his fists to prevent his hands from shaking. “Do you mean she's right? That Dad's going to...” He couldn't say it, he just couldn't. He was physically incapable of putting the words Dad and die in the same sentence. “Yeah,” Anton nodded. “The doctors... They said there's nothing they can do for him, and we thought he should at least die at home. They say diet and medicines would help, but nothing can be done now to postpone the inevitable.” Ray bit down on the laughter that was threatening to break out from his suddenly very tight throat. He wasn't supposed to laugh, was he? Not that any sound he made right now would even remotely resemble a laugh. Postpone the inevitable? Wasn't that a joke? Death was inevitable to all. All they had were the few short years between death and birth and now, Dad was out of time; Ray was out of time to make up for what he had done. To make amends. To apologise. Ray swallowed. This wasn't about him. This was about his father and his mother and his family. “How's-” He coughed. “How's Mom dealing?” “She hasn't talked to either of us, if that’s what you mean.” Dan said. “But we all know how it's going to be. She... She needs us as much if not more than Dad... This may sound harsh, but Dad... He's going to be gone, but Mom will be here, and we have to be here and we need to stay strong for her... We've to make sure we pull her through this.” “And how are we supposed to do that when she won't even talk to us?” Anton

asked. “She... She shuts us down if we try...just like that...she won't let us... It's like, I don't know, she's in denial or something” “She's trying to protect us.” Eve said. “What she's always done. Protect her kids. That's what she's doing now. She's not in denial. She just wants to keep us safe from the truth for as long as she can.” “Look,” Ray said. “I know that you've been here, and talked to the doctors and all, but are we sure there's nothing to be done? I mean-” “It isn't just his heart, Ray.” Anton said. “He's... He's old... I know we don't like to think it, but he is, and most of his organs have problems...” Anton paused. “If they could do something, they would have. Do you think Mom would have let him go without a fight? Do you think he would have given up without a fight? There's nothing anyone can do, but with luck, he still has a few good years left.” “Is that what the doctors said?” Ray asked. “They said that… um...patients in his condition,” Dan choked on the word and cleared his throat. “That people who are as bad as him...they... they don't live for more than a few weeks usually, but there's been cases where people have lived for years, so it's... It's just a toss-up, I guess, how much time he gets... The medicines and diet will help, but...” “Nothing can postpone the inevitable.” Ray murmured, ing Anton's words from before. “All right,” Eve said, wiping her eyes. “So, Dad's dying, but he isn't dead yet, so let's make the most of the time he has, all right? We shouldn't be behaving as if he's already dead. We know the truth. We've... We've got to be strong enough to deal with it.” She looked at them, her eyes shimmering with tears, but with determination shining through. “We've got to be strong, not just for Mom and Dad, but for one another. Because we... we're going to need that too... so...” Dan's hand covered hers. Anton took her other hand and Ray took Anton's other hand and Dan took his free hand. “All right,” Dan said. “We won't push Mom, but we need to figure out a way to reach her. We can't allow her to bury her feelings inside trying to protect us. We're adults now. We can handle the truth.”

“There's something else I need to say,” Eve said, her gaze dropping to the floor and she pulled her hands out of her brothers' grasps to clench them together on the table. “I did... Or tried to do something... incredibly stupid.” She looked at Ray, her gaze pleading, and he couldn't understand. What was she telling him? He gave her a smile he hoped was reassuring and said, “You know we won't judge you, Eve.” He wouldn't anyway. He was the king of bad decisions and stupid deeds. How bad could it be? “You can tell us,” Anton said. “We won't laugh.” She chuckled at that, but shook her head. “I... You're probably going to be mad at me.” “Well, I can't promise I won't be.” Dan said. “Because we all got shitty tempers, but Eve, whatever it is, we're with you, all right? Even if we get mad.” Since when did Dan grow up so much? Ray felt a tightness around his heart. He hardly recognised his siblings. They had all grown so much, and not just physically. “Thank you.” Eve said, drawing a few deep breaths as if bracing herself. Dan's phone beeped. “It's Mom,” he said. “Wants to know where her coffee is. Dad's been sedated again.” “We should go to her.” Eve said. “I told her we're talking.” Dan said. Another beep. “She says to carry on.” Eve nodded. “Okay. All right.” “Eve, you don't have to tell us anything if you're not comfortable.” Dan said. “You know that, right?” She nodded. “It's not that, it's just... I just don't know how to say it,” “Just spit it out.” Anton said. “That's usually the best way.”

“All right,” Eve said. “I tried to kill Alistair.” Ray felt as if all the air had been stolen from his lungs and he stared at his sister, unable to say a word. Anton gave a short whistle under his breath and Dan sat back and folded his hands across his chest. “Good.” he said, his voice harsh and an ugly expression on his face.

Chapter Fifteen

Dan’s reaction was shocking, but a part of Eve couldn’t help feeling pleased, gratified. She wasn’t the only one who felt that Alistair was to blame for what happened to Ray, though now it did seem as if he was blameless. “You what?” Ray sounded furious, and she winced. “Damn it, Eve! What the fuck?” “Ray!” Dan’s voice was sharp. “I’m sorry,” Eve said. “I thought...” she sighed. What had she thought? It was all a muddle. “Why do you apologise?” Dan asked. “He deserved it! He betrayed our trust.” “No, he didn’t!” Ray’s voice rose slightly and heads turned towards them, and he lowered it. “Don’t talk about things you don’t know about!” “I’ve to second Ray here,” Anton said, before Dan could retort. “Even before this morning, I didn’t think Alistair was to blame.” “What do you mean this morning?” Dan asked. “What happened this morning?” “I mean Ray finally told us what actually happened.” Anton said. “Which is?” Dan looked at Ray, question in his eyes. “Which is that Alistair had no choice.” Ray said. “I poisoned myself. He saved my life when he turned me. He had no choice.” “You don’t know that!” Eve burst out. “How do you know there wasn’t enough time to get you to the hospital?” “I was there, Eve. I did my homework. I knew just how much time I had, and I waited till the last possible moment before I went to him. So, don’t go on blaming Alistair for this. It was entirely on me.”

“Well, I didn’t know that, did I?” she asked, knowing how defensive she sounded. “Look,” Ray said. “All of you, just look and listen. Am I dead? Or am I here? He turned me, but now I’m here. I’m back. I’m human, and I have been for twelve years now. Even if… even if you blamed Alistair, even if you wanted revenge, revenge for what? I’m right here!” “Not to say it is twenty-two years too late,” Anton said, biting into his burger. “What?” at Ray’s glare. “If they wanted revenge, they should have gone for it when you were first turned.” Eve looked down. She didn’t like it, didn’t like this conversation, didn’t like that she was having to defend herself for wanting to protect Ray. “It wasn’t about revenge!” she said, unable to stop herself. “Not just that anyway.” “Then what was it?” Anton asked. Ray just kept glaring. Dan still looked shell shocked. “Alistair saved your life?” he asked as if his brain could catch up only now. “Yes, so now can we just leave him alone?” Ray asked. “If he’s that altruistic, then why doesn’t he break the bond?” Eve asked, biting her lip as soon as the words were out. She hadn’t meant to blurt it out, not like this. Damn Ray for making her angry. “What bond?” Dan asked. “The sire bond? How’s that possible?” “I don’t know,” Ray said. “This entire thing is pretty much unprecedented, Dan. So, don’t ask me for answers because I’m as much in the dark as you all.” “But the bond is there?” Anton asked, curiosity on his face. “You’re certain?” “It’s there,” Ray said, sighing. “He’s not… he’s not manipulating it, but I can still feel it.” He looked at Eve, and his expression was so hard and forbidding, it might have been a stranger who sat there. “How do you know about it?” Eve’s mouth was dry, and she swallowed. “I’ve my sources,” she said. “I’m

sorry, Ray, I can’t tell you anything more.” “You’ve to protect your sources.” Ray muttered. She hated herself, and she hated Ray, and Brian for putting her in this situation. “And are we going to ignore the fact that there’s this bond and Alistair hasn’t broken it yet?” Dan asked. “He said he would if Ray asked him.” she said. “You haven’t asked him?” Dan asked, looking astonished. “I haven’t talked to him in twelve years,” Ray said, stabbing his fork on to a piece of carrot with more aggression than it deserved. “All right,” Anton said, wiping his lips. “Let me recap, just for clarity’s sake. You”—He waved his napkin at Eve,—“tried to kill Alistair. But he isn’t dead. Neither are you.” “He let me go with a warning not to try anything like it,” Eve said. “Honestly, I expected him to kill me.” “He would have been within his rights.” Dan muttered. “Why didn’t he?” Eve shrugged. She had no answer, at least no answer that wouldn’t immediately drown her in an ocean of guilt. “What did he say he was going to do if you ever tried anything again?” Anton asked. Damn him and his curiosity. “He said he’d tell Mom.” she said, not trying to hide how despondent she felt. Ray shook his head. “Hitting below the belt. Wouldn’t have expected that of him.” “Smart,” Dan said grudgingly. “Probably the only thing that would have put us off.” Eve didn’t need to guess what her brothers were thinking. She knew. To an outsider, it might have seemed as if Alistair treated her like a child, but he had

known that telling Mom was the worst thing he could do to her. Not because Mom would have shouted or screamed or been angry, but Eve had no doubt how much it would disappoint her and she didn’t want to be the reason for that. Their mom had never been disappointed in them, not even when Ray had pulled his stupid stunt, not when she had got herself pregnant like a stupid teen, not when Anton had got himself into drugs, not when Dan had alienated everyone in the family by getting stupidly drunk and yelling himself hoarse at Shane’s funeral. But this… this was different, because she had almost broken the centuries old treaty between vampires and hunters and had almost precipitated a war. Her mom might forgive her, but she would be so, so, disappointed, and Eve didn’t want that. Mom had always stood by her, no judgement, and had always been proud of her, of all of them, despite all their fuck-ups. “We’re a bunch of fuck-ups who don’t deserve her,” she muttered, taking a sip of her tea that had gone cold. “That we are,” Anton said. “That’s why we need to be there for her now.” His words felt like someone had doused them all with cold water, bringing them back to the reality where Dad was dying and Mom was trying hard to protect them from the truth. “I suggest we tell her we know.” Eve said. “If she realises she doesn't have to protect us any more, she may open up.” She needed to. It wasn’t healthy for her to lock everything inside, but Eve wasn’t sure if her mother would still open up to them. Perhaps it’s a good thing Alistair is here. She pushed the thought away, guilt gnawing her insides.

Chapter Sixteen

Alistair could feel Ray. He could also hear his heartbeat. The way it spiked and again smoothed out, when it raced, and kept on racing… Was it strange that he could predict exactly how Ray must have been feeling just from his heartbeat? He didn’t even have to use the bond. Ten years. Ten years Ray had been his fledgling. How Alistair had hated him, at first, for forcing him into doing what he swore he would never do again. It was Ray, though, and hatred didn’t last very long. To let him go after ten years… it had hurt, it was torture, but it had been the right decision, for Ray, for Ned and Daphne, for Ray’s siblings… for everyone except Alistair. He was all right now, though. The pain had dissipated over time, as he had known it would. I should have broken the bond when I first realised it was there. His phone beeped, and he checked it. It was a message from Daphne. I told Ned. it read. He says you have to come up now. The kids are in the cafeteria. They said they're talking. I'm assuming it's going to take some time. Alistair smiled to himself, warmth filling him. It didn't matter how many times he told himself he didn’t care what the humans thought of him. It did matter what some of them thought. He did care. He got out of the car and went into the hospital. The place had changed beyond recognition. The touches of modernity were blended seamlessly with the original architecture which was not changed even with all the extensions and renovations. It was good. Ned was propped up against pillows, looking much the same as ever. “Finally,” he said. “You're an idiot and I finally get to say that to your face.” Alistair smiled as he gripped Ned's hand. “How're you?” “Dying, according to the doctors.” he said. “Daphne acts as if it's some big tragedy.” “Ned!” Daphne interrupted, but Ned continued without noticing, “I tell her she shouldn't bother so much. It's part of life. We all have to go someday.

Why act surprised when the day comes? After all I've lived a long life, and no complaints right now.” Daphne sniffled. “He's being silly.” she said. “Senile,” Ned retorted. “But you.” He looked at Alistair, “You, I have a bone to pick with. Why the hell did you run off like that? And why take so long to come home? Do you know how many times I called you? I suppose you ditched your phone.” Alistair pulled a chair close to the bed and sat down, nodding. “It gets a bit suspicious after a while. I've had that number for over fifty years.” “Never thought of giving me a ring and giving me the new number?” Ned asked. “All right, I'm a fool.” Alistair said, still smiling. He shouldn't feel happy. Ned was dying, after all, but he was. He was unable to help it. “And now that I've got you to it it, I can die happy.” Ned said, ignoring the muffled sound of protest from Daphne. “Did she apologise for Ray?” Ned asked. “She did,” he replied, swallowing around the hurt. “But neither of you need to. It's not your fault.” “I know that Ray and you are all set on becoming the bad guys in this story.” Ned said. “Thing is, we were his parents. We raised him. It is our fault that he felt he couldn't confide in us, our fault that he felt the need to take drastic steps and our fault that he did it with so little concern for the other person.” “Ned, he was sixteen, he'd just lost Shane, you can't expect him to behave normally.” “I'm glad you're making excuses for him.” Ned said. “I shouldn't be, but I am. I would hate for you to hate any of my children, no matter what assholes they are. I know I'm being selfish… I know I shouldn't ask it of you…” “You haven't,” Alistair said. “And you know me. Asking me won't do any good if I didn't want it myself.”

“That’s what makes me glad.” Ned said. After a moment he looked at Daphne. “Daph, I think we should tell the children. They need a chance to say their goodbyes.” “I know.” She sounded subdued. “But I… I just want to keep it from them for as long as I can… I guess, I just…” She sighed. “I'm being silly, aren't I?” She looked forlorn. “What do you think?” Ned asked. “You've always been sensible. Think we should tell them their old man's about to kick the bucket?” “I think they've a right to know, yes.” Alistair said. “As you said, they need to say their goodbyes… say whatever they need to, before they lose the chance.” He gave Daphne an apologetic look. “I'm sorry, Daphne. I understand you wanting to protect them, but they aren't children any more. They're adults, and I think you need to tell them yourself.” “The voice of reason.” Ned said, smiling. “God, you've no idea how much I've missed you!” “For what it's worth, I've missed both of you too,” he said softly. It was so hard to believe Ned was dying. He didn't look or talk like a man facing death. Alistair stiffened. “I think your children are coming back.” “You stay right where you are.” Ned said, resolutely. “You're one of our oldest friends, and you've known them all their lives. You shouldn't be hesitant to meet them, and if any of them feel embarrassed to meet you, that's their problem.” “I agree with Ned,” Daphne said. “They need to understand that you'll always be a part of the Haspels.” Alistair felt something tighten in his chest. No words would come and he could only nod. It was easy to claim he was self-sufficient, that he needed no one, but the Haspels had been part of his life for four centuries now, even before the treaty and he couldn't just ignore what they meant to him. It felt good to know they felt the same way. At least Ned and Daphne did, and there was a time the children did too, and perhaps someday they would again. Most of his kind would have scoffed. Even Jon would have, but Alistair was not his brother, and this meant a great deal to him.

Chapter Seventeen

They were all quiet as they went back to their father’s room. The coffee was in Eve’s hands, and Dan was holding the tea for Dad. Anton walked with his hands in his pockets, head bowed. His hair was too long. The silence felt awkward and uncomfortable, and Ray’s hands were itching for his phone. At least, that would be a distraction. “They watch your show, you know.” Anton said, without looking at him. “Mom and Dad.” “What?” Ray was startled. The show wasn’t a top rated one. “I didn’t even know you guys could get it here.” “Everything is available everywhere.” Anton smirked at him. “Sure, they have to pay extra for a channel no one else watches, but they get it, and they watch it.” He chuckled softly, amusement in his eyes. “A Ray of Sunshine. Who came up with that?” Ray laughed, forgetting they were in a hospital. He had rolled his eyes and grimaced when the title was first suggested, but for some reason, Jerry had liked it, and it had stuck. The show wasn’t a roaring success, but it wasn’t a failure either. The network had not so far pulled the plug and it had been renewed for one more season recently, which would make it the fourth season. “What’s the joke?” Dan asked, half turning and stopping. “My show.” Ray said. “Ah,” Eve said. “I’ve a few friends who watch it almost religiously, but I suspect it’s more to do with your state of undress than anything else.” Ray chuckled. It wasn’t like he wasn’t aware of it. “I know, that’s part of why I’m dressed like that.” Dan shook his head, muttering something about marketing people with no

morals and the rest of them caught one another’s eyes and bit their lips to stop themselves from laughing. Ray’s inclination to laugh disappeared as he entered his Dad’s room to find Alistair there. Fortunately, both Eve and Dan stopped short at his sight and only Anton walked towards him, hand outstretched and smiling, throwing an amused look over his shoulder at them. Alistair shook hands with Anton, and while they exchanged platitudes, Ray sat down on one of the chairs, trying to bring his heart rate under control. He could do this. He was an adult. It had been twelve years since he had seen Alistair. He was over him. Dan muttered “awkward,” under his breath as he handed the tea to Dad. Eve placed Mom’s coffee on a side table and sat on the arm of Ray’s chair, her hands clasping and unclasping. Ray covered her hands with one of his, and she caught it in a tight grip, so tight it hurt, but he didn’t complain or wince. She needed it. She was extremely pale. He managed to give a tiny squeeze to her hand and could feel her tense frame relax fractionally, her death grip on his hand loosening slightly. “I should leave.” Alistair said, rising. “I still have a bit of unpacking to do.” “But you’ll be staying?” Dad asked. “Of course,” Alistair said. “For as long as I can.” He nodded towards them, his eyes meeting Ray’s briefly. There was no change in his expression. Ray might well have been a stranger. He was conscious of the warmth in his neck and face. This was not how he had pictured a meeting with Alistair. Not that he had pictured any. He had never expected to meet him again, but if he ever had to meet him again, this was not how he would have thought it might go. “That was awkward.” Anton said once Alistair was out of the room. “He can probably hear you.” Eve said, her grip on Ray’s hand relaxing and she sagged against him. “Not unless he’s listening.” Ray said, pulling his hand out from hers gingerly. “There’s too much sensory input. Most of them shut down everything. They’ll still hear, but it’ll be like background noise. They won’t be able to distinguish unless they’re actively listening.”

His family was looking at him with varying expressions, Dan with disapproval and curiosity, Eve and Anton looked impressed and his parents looked proud. “Let it be known that a Haspel can’t even turn without learning more about the enemy.” Anton said. “It’s useful information to have.” Dan said grudgingly as he sat down on the chair Alistair had vacated. “You weren’t very polite to Alistair, except Anton.” Mom said. “I can understand Ray feeling some awkwardness, but why should the two of you be like that? Is there something we should know?” “Look,” Dan sighed. “I get that he’s your friend and that you’re both glad to have him back, but the thing is I’ve blamed him for what happened to Ray for twenty-two years. I know.” He looked at Ray. “I know now that it wasn’t his fault, but the thing is… it doesn’t go away at the drop of a hat, you know? I need time. To process, to get used to thinking of him as a friend again… I’m sorry, but…” He shrugged, his voice trailing off and he pinched his nose. “It’s all right,” Mom said softly. “We understand that. God knows he has time. So, I wouldn’t think that’s a problem, as long as-” “I tried to kill him.” Eve said suddenly, cutting Mom off in the middle. She was wringing her hands and Ray’s hand was too bruised, but he still lifted it to take hers, but she got up and started pacing. “I tried to kill him, and he let me go. I… I was stupid and I nearly broke the treaty and he… he just let me go… that’s why I… I just feel too guilty!” Mom enveloped her in a hug, her larger frame almost completely covering Eve’s smaller one. “Hush,” she murmured, her tone and expression tender. “It’s all right. You’re all right.” “Well, I’m not all right with it.” Dad said. “For god’s sake, Eve! What were you thinking? You could have been killed!” “Ned-” Mom started, but he shook his head. “No, Daph. I can’t believe any daughter of mine would be so stupid as to try and take on a vampire of Alistair’s calibre by herself.”

Eve broke away from their Mom and turned to glare at Dad. “That’s your problem?” she asked, her voice disbelieving. “He’s your friend!” “And he was perfectly safe.” Dad retorted. “Even if all four of you were to go up against him together, he would still be safe. Even if all six of us went against him, he would still be safe. That’s how powerful he is. So, excuse me if I’m more concerned for my mortal daughter than about my immortal best friend.” “No, no, that’s-” Eve sighed. “You’re not mad at me for trying to kill him?” Dad sighed. “I’m mad you tried to kill my best friend. I’m mad you tried to harm someone who had babysat you. But I’m more mad that you risked your life and safety. Since I don’t have much time left, I think I’ll spend it being mad about the thing that bothers me the most.” They all stared at Dad, consternation on Mom’s face, resignation on Eve’s, Dan was expressionless and Anton was looking down. Ray wasn’t sure what he looked like. It felt as if someone had punched him in the gut. “So, you are dying.” He recognised the words to have belonged to him only when everyone looked at him. Dad nodded. “Yes. And you have a right to know. I wanted you to know. I don’t want to go without saying good bye.” “We wanted to give you the chance to say good bye as well,” Mom said softly, as she moved to Dad’s side. A part of Ray got it, but the other part wanted to yell and smash things and yell some more. That part didn’t want to know Dad was dying, even if it meant not getting a chance to say good bye. He couldn’t breathe, as if the room had suddenly become airless and the citrus smell of the air freshener was choking him. “Excuse me.” He forced out and ran into the bathroom, to hurl into the toilet, tears and sweat dripping down his face.

Chapter Eighteen

The next few days were a blur in Ray’s mind. Every day was the same. Visit Dad at the hospital in the morning, explore the town where he was born in the afternoon, comparing the place with the one in his memory, and every evening, Alistair was invited to dinner by Mom. Though he couldn’t eat, he would sit there and talk to them all. Just like old times. Even Eve and Dan were thawing to him, and Anton always treated him with the same familiarity they had when they were children. It was torture to sit there and watch Alistair charm his family so effortlessly while ignoring him. Not that Ray ever initiated a conversation with him. He stayed stiff and awkward, almost as if he were still that sixteen-year-old with a crush. Except it no longer was a crush. It wasn’t the only thing that bothered Ray. Either Eve or Anton stayed with Dad during the day, and Mom or Dan stayed the night. Ray had offered to stay with Dad a couple of times, but was told he should rest and relax. It was beginning to make him feel useless, as if he was no longer part of them. Things came to a head the night before Dad was to come home. Mom was in great spirits, talking about Dad and their plans to go on a vacation once Dad was home. “I’ll stay with him tonight.” she said “And I’ll get the paperwork processed by the time you all come.” Ray had enough. “I’ve other plans.” he said. It was a lie, but it didn’t have to be. Jerry had been angling for an invitation to Vrelsk for long. If he texted him now, he would be on the next flight and would reach by morning. “Ray,” Eve said, a frown on her face. “Can’t you postpone them or something? Dad would want all of us there.”

“He’s coming home, what’s the big deal? I’ll just meet him later.” “You don’t know if you’ll have the chance later.” Alistair said, speaking to Ray directly for the first time in twelve years. “If you-” “I don’t asking for your opinion.” Ray said, pushing his chair back and rising. “I get it, Mom. He’s your oldest friend and you want him here, but to me… to me he’s a reminder of the biggest mistake I ever made and one which it seems I will always have to pay for. I’m sorry. It suffocates me to be in the same room with him.” He walked out of the house, closing the door behind him. He would have liked to slam it, but he didn’t. He went out into the streets and turned right towards the Heron hills. It had been one of his favourite haunts as a child, a series of small slopes and valleys that spread as far as eyes could see. By the time he climbed the first slope, his temper had begun to cool. He stood underneath the single tree on top of the hill. The tree had been planted by him and his class during a trip. The bench beneath was donated by the town council. It was covered in dried birdshit. He made a face and started running down into the valley between the hill and the next. He was panting by the time he got to the bottom. He waded into the small stream, stepping on the stones placed there for people to cross, though the stream was only a few feet wide and perhaps about four feet deep. He got to the other side and sank on to the grass, pulling off his shoes and socks and dipping his feet in the water. He lay on the grass, his feet still immersed in the stream, feeling the cool liquid run over them. He looked at the sky, at the stars, ignoring the tickle from tiny fish nibbling at his toes. It had been Dad who had taught him the names of the constellations. They used to lie like this, Shane and him on both sides of Dad, all of them with their feet in the water and eyes trained on the night sky with Dad’s portable telescope. His eyes stung. He used to sneak away to come to this valley and stare forlornly at what he called in his mind as their spot even after becoming a vampire. Because Alistair had never been there, and never had time for him. It had been perfectly obvious to Ray that despite how kind Alistair was, he had resented him. It was years later that he found out that Alistair had sworn never to turn humans. Even before the treaty, he had sworn that, and Ray had made him break

that oath. Yet, Alistair had been kind; once Ray had finished school, he had found time to spend with Ray, to teach him about vampires, about how to control their powers of flight, shape shifting, and mind control. He had also shared stories about his past, but never once did he tell Ray about his oath. He had to find out from that asshole Jonathan. Ray sighed. He had always hated it when Jonathan came to visit. Not just because Jonathan was obnoxious and condescending, but because Alistair had a bond with Jonathan that sured anything Ray had shared with him. Jonathan had been Alistair’s brother when they had been human and he was Alistair’s sire as well, and they had a shared history of lifetimes and how was Ray to compete with that? Of course, as he grew older, it was evident to Ray that there was no question of competing because Alistair was not interested in forming any kind of bond with Ray, not even one of friendship. Yet, he wouldn’t break the sire bond. “Fuck him!” Ray said aloud, his voice ringing hollow and echoing back. Shane had loved the echoes. It was the best in this valley, but it was there to varying degrees in all the valleys. He owed his family an apology. But not Alistair. Never him. Whatever Ray had done to him, he had been punished for it many times over. He owed him nothing. Of course, it wasn’t Alistair’s fault that Ray had fallen for him and had found himself unable to get over it. Distance hadn’t done it. Time hadn’t done it. Dating others hadn’t done it. Meaningless sex hadn’t done it. Right now, Ray was on a break from all that, because realising and accepting that whatever he did, he would always be in love with Alistair had made him see that he had to stop trying. Stop trying to get over Alistair, and certainly stop hoping. “Ray,” Alistair’s voice was quiet. Was he dreaming? Ray lifted his head. Alistair was standing on the other bank. “What do you want?” he asked, lying back down again. “We need to talk.” Alistair said.

“Yes, we do.” Ray agreed. It might not solve anything, but if it would stop Ray from blaming Alistair for his inability to love Ray, that would be a start. “I cannot come over there.” Alistair said. “I cannot cross running water.” “Right.” Ray had forgotten. He got up, picked up his shoes and made his way to the other bank. The stones were more slippery than he had realised, especially with wet feet, but he’d always had good balance. He got to the other side without any trouble. Alistair stood there waiting, his face inscrutable and his form as still as if he were a statue.

Chapter Nineteen

Ray reached Alistair’s side and they walked to a spot where there were large stones placed on which people could sit. They didn’t speak as they sat down. “Is my presence causing you distress?” Alistair asked finally. Ray didn’t know how to answer. The truth would be awkward. “This may sound real old.” Ray said. “But it’s not you. It’s me.” “Ah,” Alistair sounded faintly amused. After a beat, “Is the bond causing you distress?” “No,” Ray said. “It’s not, but… I want it gone… I’m no longer your fledgeling.” He couldn’t keep the bitterness from colouring his voice. “No, you’re not.” Alistair said. “Are you angry with me for helping your parents in turning you human? I know you felt betrayed-” “Alistair,” Ray interrupted. “Let’s not go there, all right? You’ve no idea how I feel, and frankly I’ve no idea either. I’m angry when I should be grateful. But I’d rather not discuss that with you.” “You’re not talking to anyone.” Alistair said. “I’ve a therapist.” Ray said. “With whom you talk about how you were a vampire for ten years?” Alistair sounded sceptical. “Karen’s Dad used to be a hunter.” Ray said, feeling annoyed. Of course, he hadn’t been to see Karen in three years, but there was no need for Alistair to know it. “I see.” Alistair said.

“My point is I don’t want to talk about this with you. As I said, it’s me. I need to… why didn’t you break the damn bond?” He had to ask. He had to know. Why would Alistair even keep it? “I’ll break it if that’s what you want.” Alistair said, looking down between his feet. Perhaps some insect that was more interesting than Ray was crawling on the grass there. “Why didn’t you? Why wait till I ask?” Alistair swallowed as if he was nervous. “It is painful to lose a fledgeling,” he said finally. “As painful as ripping out my own heart. The bond helped me survive your loss. It felt… I don’t know, it helped me and I didn’t have the heart to break it.” Ray stared at the vampire, at the bowed head, at the red hair that was so dark as to look black in this indifferent light. “It hurt that much?” he asked. He hadn’t known it. He didn’t think even his parents would have known it. All this time he had been angry and Alistair had been suffering. “Yes.” “Then why did you do it? Because my parents asked you to?” “That was only part of it,” Alistair still hadn’t lifted his head. “The real reason was you.” “Of course,” Ray murmured. “You wanted me gone.” “I wanted you to have a chance at a normal life.” Alistair said quietly. “I wanted you to have your family back. I wanted you to be human because I felt it was the best thing for you.” Ray couldn’t lie and say it wasn’t. So, he settled for, “That wasn’t for you to decide.” Alistair chuckled as he lifted his head and looked at Ray, the blue eyes shining with amusement. “Are you going to tell me it wasn’t the best thing for you?”

“No,” Ray said. “Fuck it, but yes, it was the best thing for me. I’m not going to lie about that. But… you could have asked me… told me...” “You wouldn’t have agreed.” It was Ray’s turn to chuckle. “If you didn’t know I would have done just about anything to please you, you must have been really blind.” Alistair looked astonished. “I don’t know what you mean,” Ray snorted. “I’m talking of the stupid crush I had on you since I was sixteen the first time.” he said. “You what?” “You didn’t know?” Ray was amazed. “I don’t know whether to be mortified or amused.” “I didn’t know.” Alistair said, his voice sounding strange. Ray exhaled. Everything seemed so surreal right now. He and Alistair were having a civil conversation. That in itself was a surprise, something he would not have thought possible a few hours back. He had finally come clean to the vampire about why he had done what he did, and Alistair hadn’t freaked out. He was only surprised he didn’t know. He didn’t know, because he had never considered the possibility, because Ray had never been anything but Ned and Daphne’s son, and God! That hurt. It was almost physical, the pain he felt. But he swallowed around the lump that formed in his throat and said lightly. “Now you do.” “Ray-” “Look, I… I know I was stupid, that I shouldn’t have done what I did, but… I didn’t know about your oath. Your bloody brother had to tell me about it. Jeez, I hate that bastard!” Alistair chuckled. “Jon does seem to inspire that emotion in everyone he meets.”

“But not in you.” Ray said quietly. “Not in me,” Alistair agreed. “To me, he will always be my brother… We live long lives and have long memories, but sometimes we forget our human lives and what it felt to be human… Jon reminds me of that, though he has forgotten.” “I get it.” Ray said, though he wasn’t completely sure he did. But it explained why Alistair was different. Most vampires were unemotional, clinical in their dealings with humans. Alistair had never been like that. He might not wear his heart on his sleeve, but he would never behave like a machine either. “I’m sorry if my presence in your family’s life is causing you any distress.” Alistair said. “But I’m not ready to step away from them. They’ve been my friends since before you were born. If they tell me to leave, I’ll leave, but till then, I’m not going anywhere.” “So, stop behaving like a spoiled brat, is that it?” “That’s not what I said.” “But that’s what you think.” He turned to look at Alistair. “You and everyone else, my family and your brother included. Spoiled brat Ray.” He sighed and looked down. “After everything I did, it’s… I guess that’s fair. I’m sorry.” He looked at Alistair. “Sorry that I forced you to turn me, which in turn forced you to help my parents turn me back, and now I’m...” He sighed. “It’s not you or them. It’s me. I’m jealous.” The word slipped out before he could stop it. “Jealous,” Alistair repeated softly. “Of me?” “Of you, of them.” He clasped his hands in front of him and stared at them to avoid looking at Alistair. “It seemed as if they accepted you back far more easily than they did me. I know that everything was my bloody fault, but… they’re my family, and you...” He looked at Alistair, forcing the words out because it hurt so much even to look at him. “You know tonight’s the first time you’ve spoken to me since I turned back?” He looked back at his hands, surprised at how tightly clenched they were now. “I know that you don’t owe me anything, that I’m

selfish, so fucking selfish, but it hurt this last few days to see you talk to all of them and pretend as if I didn’t exist.” Alistair didn’t speak, but Ray could hear him breathe. Slow, so slow, like all vampires did, but there was still a pattern to it, a pattern Ray had memorised. “I wanted to give you space,” Alistair said quietly. “It’s true that I don’t know how you feel, but I assumed it would be easier for you if I didn’t interact with you.” Ray chuckled, but it was bitter. “Worked out well, didn’t it?” “So, am I correct in assuming that you… you don’t resent me, just the fact that I’ve not been treating you like the rest of your family?” Was that right? Would he be happy if Alistair were to treat him like Anton or Dan or Eve? The answer was a resounding no, but still, it would be better than Alistair not even looking at him. I’m pathetic. Ray chuckled again. “Can’t hurt.” he said. “I’ll try,” Alistair said. “But the thing is, I don’t know if I can. You see Ray, I don’t feel for you the way I do for the rest of your family.” Ray turned his head to look at Alistair. “What the fuck’s that supposed to mean?” “I resented you, even hated you at first,” Alistair said quietly. “But it didn’t last very long, and I started enjoying having you with me, to get used to your presence in my life… and then I had to let you go… and...” Alistair’s breath was loud as he exhaled. He turned his head to look at Ray. “I had to accept that at some point I had fallen for you and that I never stopped. That’s why I can’t treat you like the rest of your family. Because I’m not in love with any of them.” Ray stared at Alistair, his brain not able to comprehend what it had just heard. Something was stirring inside, his chest was expanding and he couldn’t breathe, but he heard himself say. “You love me?”

Alistair nodded, his expression guarded. “Fuck, we’re idiots.” Ray muttered. Alistair smiled softly. “Perhaps we are.” “I’ve been in love with you since I was sixteen the first time,” Ray said, “Granted, I didn’t know what love was then, but the thing is I never stopped, not once in these twenty-two years, not even when I thought you’d betrayed me… not even when I hated myself...Fuck it, Alistair, you mean we wasted all this time?” Alistair laughed. Ray couldn’t help but smile. He had missed Alistair’s laughter, more than he had believed possible. “Where do we go from here?” Ray asked quietly. “Take it one day at a time and see where it goes?” Alistair suggested. “Sounds good to me,” Ray said. He still had to go home and apologise to his family, make things all right somehow. “I’m fucking selfish, aren’t I?” he said aloud. “If you’re looking at me to endorse your self-flagellation, you’re going to be waiting a long time.” Alistair said. “I think I am selfish.” Ray said. “A bit self-absorbed, certainly.” Alistair said. “But not selfish.” The words should not have made him happy, but they did. “Shall we go?” Alistair asked. “You must be cold.” Ray shrugged non-committally. It was cold, but he didn’t feel it much. He hadn’t, not since he had turned back. “We still have to talk about Magnus.” Alistair said as they walked up the hill.

He could have flown, and probably taken Ray with him, but Ray needed the walk and he appreciated that Alistair was ready to give him company. Their hands had found each other’s at some point. “He asked you.” Ray guessed. “And you turned him down.” “I’m officially an outcast now.” Alistair said. Ray sighed. “I’m sorry,” he said. “I didn’t mean to get you into trouble.” “It wasn’t your fault.” Alistair shrugged. “I needn’t have dug my heels in.” “Why did you?” Ray asked, stopping. Alistair stopped too, turning to face him. “I don’t know. I wanted you to ask me yourself.” Ray took a deep breath. “I’ll tell Magnus that I’ve changed my mind.” “Have you?” “I want the bond gone, Alistair. I just… I don’t like it being there.” “All right.” Alistair said, his fingers tightening almost painfully on Ray’s, though his face remained calm. “There, gone.” Ray could feel it, and it was both glorious and bereaved at the same time. “Thank you,” he said. “Did I tell you I love you?” Alistair smiled. “I think you may have mentioned it in ing.” “So, I’ll tell Magnus you have broken the bond,” Ray said, somehow unable to look at Alistair. “That should appease him.” “Ray,” Alistair said. “I love you.” Ray stepped forward and hugged him, just holding him and Alistair hugged him back. “I love you,” Ray whispered. Alistair kissed him, a close-mouthed peck that left Ray both wanting more and satisfied at the same time. It was far from perfect, but it was everything he had

ever wanted. They stood in the circle of each other’s arms, sharing air. “Fuck!” Alistair muttered. “I want to do things to you that I can’t here.” “You can fly us both home,” Ray murmured. “Do that moonlight trick and zap us back,” “You need to talk to your family.” Alistair said, but he wasn’t letting Ray go. Ray had to acknowledge the words, albeit reluctantly. “How about I talk to them and then come to your house, and we can pick up where we left off.” “Sounds good,” Alistair kissed him again, deeper this time. “If we stay here much longer, I may change my mind.” “Okay,” Ray said, taking a half step back. “Fly us back?” “Hold on,” Alistair murmured, his arms enveloping Ray, and something else, soft and warm, and Ray closed his eyes against the assault of memories it brought. Alistair’s wings. Ray hadn’t had wings, but Alistair had assured him they would come in time. It was part of the magic that kept them alive and gave them powers. The sizes varied according to the age of the vampire. He gave himself up to the sensation of feeling himself wrapped in them. Vampires didn’t really need wings to fly, after all.

Chapter Twenty

Mom sat on the couch, her eyes dry, but anguished and she would turn to look at the door every now and then. She hadn’t gone to the hospital, sending Anton instead. “Just tell Ned I want to talk to Ray,” she had said. “And not to worry about anything.” Dan hadn’t returned yet, but he wouldn’t just yet. He usually stopped to have dinner on the way. “You know it’s not your fault, Mom.” Eve said, unable to stay silent any longer. “Ray was being an asshole.” “Was he?” Mom asked, her voice acid. “Perhaps we should all have a bit of comion for Ray.” “Mom!” she expostulated. “Eve,” Mom said. “Have we ever tried looking at it from Ray’s standpoint?” “What standpoint?” Eve asked. She loved her brother, but she was tired of his outbursts. Ray was behaving like a spoiled child, crying for attention. Why couldn’t Mom see that? “He’s being childish and acting like a spoilt brat!” “He’s being human,” Mom said. “Everything he did… Eve, he had just lost Shane and he fell for Alistair… can you really not see why he did what he did?” “I get that,” Eve said, exasperated. “But that doesn’t excuse his words tonight.” “He came back,” Mom said softly. “He was turned back against his will, Eve and… Alistair helped us to do that… we’re hunters, we learn about vampires all our lives, and yet you can’t understand?” “Alistair helped you?” Eve asked, too shocked for coherent thought as she stared

at her mother. Mom nodded. “We asked him to… said we had a way, but we needed his help… and he helped us.” Eve could only shake her head in disbelief. The bond between sire and fledgeling was an almost sacred bond. It wasn’t the same as a parent child relationship, but it was one that bound the two with a connection between their minds that lasted for centuries, and sometimes entire lifetimes. Yet, Alistair had betrayed that bond. No wonder Ray acted strangely whenever he saw him. “Oh god.” she said finally. “Alistair said...” Daphne swallowed. “He said it felt like ripping the still beating heart from out of his chest when Ray turned human again, but… Eve, what if it felt the same for Ray? We… we never thought to ask… just went back to behaving as if everything was normal when he was back… and now, when he comes back after all these years, we are more excited about being able to be friends with Alistair again than with the fact that Ray is back… we just took him for granted, and...” she wiped her eyes. “I’m his mother… I should have tried to understand him.” “So, are you going to stop being friends with Alistair just because it hurts Ray?” Eve asked. Was that where this was going? If it was, she was going to have words with Mom. A week ago, she would have been all for that, but not now. “No,” Mom said, looking surprised. “No, of course not. But I should have talked to Ray, tried to make him understand, and listened to his concerns.” “Without intending to do anything about it,” Eve said. “That’s not...” Mom sighed. “Do you want me to stop being Alistair’s friend?” “No,” Eve shook her head. “I don’t want to go back to feeling as if I’m being buried under a mountain of guilt every time I see Alistair, so no.” Mom chuckled. “That’s a very poetic simile, Eve.”

They were silent for a while, Eve checking the messages in her phone, and Mom reading a book. It was a comfortable silence, the kind they had been used to in Eve’s adolescent days. Before Shane died, before they lost Ray, before… Eve opened a game and started playing, not wanting to think of anything else. She had reached the 20 th level when the doorbell rang. “Must be Dan,” she said without looking up as Mom went to answer the door. “Dan has a key,” Mom said. It wasn’t Dan as it turned out. It was Ray. He hugged Mom as soon as he entered, holding her and saying, “I’m sorry, Mom, I’m really sorry.” Mom hugged him back, stroked his hair and whispered. “It’s all right, Ray. I’m sorry too that I made you feel unwelcome.” “You didn’t,” he said, breaking the hug and sinking on to the couch and Mom sat next to him. “I was being a dick, and I’m sorry.” “While it’s true that you were being a dick,”—Eve said, closing her game as she failed the level for the second time,—“there has to be something more.” “Eve-” he started. “Spill,” she said. “You need to tell us, Ray. We won’t know unless you do.” He sighed, and rubbed his nose. “It’s just… it sounds so silly.” “If you really thought that, it wouldn’t bother you this much.” Mom said. “All right.” Ray said. “I was… I don’t know, feeling left out?” “Because of Alistair?” Eve asked. “Not just that,” Ray said. “Just… you wouldn’t let me stay with Dad, I mean, all of you keep taking turns and it felt as if I don’t even have the right to do that, as if because I fucked up once, I can’t be trusted anymore.” “Oh, Ray,” Mom whispered, tears shimmering in her eyes and Eve wiped her own brimming eyes surreptitiously. There was so much anguish in Ray’s face

and voice and she had never seen him like that except at Shane’s funeral. She rose and sat on the arm of the couch and hugged him, because she didn’t know what else to do. Ray hugged her with one arm, a bit awkwardly because of his position, and his eyes were wet too. “I just felt like I wasn’t wanted.” he said. “I’m so sorry,” Mom whispered as she hugged Ray too. “Oh Ray, it wasn’t about not trusting you… I just thought you could do with some rest and relaxation. You work so hard; I didn’t want to...” her voice broke and she sniffled. “Mom, Dad’s in hospital, and dying. How can I relax?” he whispered. “What rest can I have?” “I was being so stupid.” Mom said, leaning against him. “Will you drive me to the hospital tomorrow?” “Yes,” Ray whispered. “I’m sorry I said I won’t come.” Eve sniffled and lay her head against Ray’s. Mom chuckled wetly and scooted over and Ray slid to the side, making room for Eve. Even so, she almost fell on top of him and they all ended up in a fit of giggles and sniffles when Mom’s phone rang. “It’s the hospital.” she said, her hands shaking and her eyes wide with fear as she answered. “It’s Dan.” Eve could see it in her eyes, and she could feel Ray’s arms tightening around her.

Chapter Twenty-One

The funeral was meant to be a quiet affair, Daphne not wanting too many people around, and yet it attracted more people than intended. Alistair stood in the back, next to his own kind, allowing the hunters to have their space. Despite their friendship, there was still etiquette to be followed on occasions like this, at least publicly. He found his eyes straying to where Ray stood next to his siblings, head bowed, and tears on his cheeks. It hurt that he couldn’t go over and comfort him, not here anyway. “I’m sorry.” Jon’s voice was startling, but Alistair had a lifetime of practice in hiding his surprise at the unexpected appearance of his brother. “I didn’t expect you.” Alistair said, not turning his head as Jon sidled into place next to him. “Oh, I’m not here for the humans.” Jon said. “I know you were close to them. I’m sorry.” “He was a friend.” Alistair said. It wasn’t the first time he was losing one, and yet, it was something he had never got used to, unlike most of his kind. “But I would have expected you to laugh or make a joke or say something deprecating. Sympathy is a new look on you.” Jon sighed. “I get why you think I’m not being sincere, but I am. I don’t give a damn for the humans. I never have, but you… you, I do care about.” Alistair gave him a sceptical look, and Jon sighed again. “Look,” he said. “I know I’ve been an ass in the past, and I mostly am, but that doesn’t mean I don’t care about you… I don’t get your attachment to humans, and I probably never will, but that doesn’t mean I like seeing you in pain.” “Thank you.” Alistair said. The other shoe was bound to drop soon, but till it did, he would accept Jon’s words at face value.

“That’s your one time fledge, isn’t it?” Jon asked. “He used to look like he wanted to murder me every time we met.” “Most people you meet look at you like that.” Alistair said drily. “Must be your charming personality.” “If it were not completely inappropriate right now, I would have cracked a smile.” Jon said. “You’re getting better.” “Are you going to stay?” Alistair asked. He hoped he would. As obnoxious as Jon was, Alistair knew that Jon needed him, that it was that need which pulled him into these visits. The bond between them was no longer there. One day Jon had decided it was too much bother. It had been four centuries ago, but it still hurt. He had understood Jon’s reasons for it. Jon had thought it was the bond that kept him returning to Alistair’s side, but Alistair knew different. Jon probably did too, though he wouldn’t say it out loud. This was the closest he had ever come to accepting that he still had human emotions left. “Nope,” Jon said. “I came for you, and now that I’ve offered you my condolences and a shoulder to cry on-” “You didn’t.” Alistair said, torn between exasperation and amusement. “-which you manfully declined, I shall go back to my home to nurse my wounded pride.” “Stop being stupid.” Alistair said, his eyes moving to Ray again, who was looking at him. Their eyes met and Alistair forgot Jon for an instant. Ray’s eyes dropped and Alistair cursed the traditions that wouldn’t allow him to be at his side when he was hurting so much. “On second thoughts,” Jon said. “I think I’ll wait around to pay my respects. It’s not like I need a plane to fly back home.” There was something in his tone that made Alistair uneasy.

“Behave.” he said, his trepidation causing the words to be sharper than he had intended. “Now Magnus is glaring at me,” Jon observed. Alistair focussed on the service. The hunters followed no religious ceremony. Their dead were buried in deep graves, with wolfsbane covering the shroud that covered the corpse and rosebushes were planted on the grave. The cemetery was ringed around with ash trees and junipers, rendering all of the vampires powerless while here. “Probably he’s glaring because you’re talking to me.” Alistair said. “He exiled me.” “He what?” Jon’s voice rose and even some of the hunters turned to look at him and Jon dropped his voice. “Why?” Alistair shrugged, not wanting to discuss Ray with Jon. “It’s private,” he said. “Besides, I can get him to change it.” “I don’t care in either case.” Jon said. “Let them exile you, I’m not going to stay away from my brother because they said so.” Alistair had known it, but he was touched nevertheless. Jon had always been a loner, never listening to whatever the council said. We have that in common still. There was movement among the hunters. It must be time to pay the respects. Before the casket was lowered to the ground, each hunter present would go to the casket and place a rose on it. In the centuries after the treaty, when vampires and hunters had started forming alliances and vampires had started attending funerals, they had also been allowed the same privilege except because they couldn’t touch real roses or go near them, they were given paper roses. The real roses from the casket were put into the grave before the vampires approached and the casket was lowered on to a bed of roses later. It was Gary handing out paper roses to everyone today, and he paused a moment when he reached them, before taking two from a basket and giving them to him and Jon.

“I’m sorry.” Alistair mouthed. Gary inclined his head in acknowledgement and his mouth quirked upward as he mouthed, “Welcome back.” That was something. Gary wasn’t hostile either. The Jansens were as old a hunting family as the Haspels and Alistair had had alliances with them over the centuries, though he had never got close to any of them till Daphne had married a Haspel. Gary, as Daphne’s twin, had been a frequent visitor to the Haspels and Alistair had met him often enough for them to be, if not quite friends, something more than casual acquaintances. “He still has a stick up his ass.” Jon murmured as Gary moved to the next group. “Jon,” Alistair said. “Mmm?” “Thank you for being here.” He meant it too. Whatever anyone thought of Jon, Alistair couldn’t but be grateful and happy for his presence here. “Shut up.” Jon said, sounding annoyed. He was never comfortable when Alistair said things like that. Alistair looked down. He wanted to smile at Jon’s discomfiture, but it seemed wrong on an occasion like this. Ned was gone andAlistair swallowed around the lump that seemed to have taken residence in his throat. Ned was gone. It was too sudden. He followed the vampire in front of him to the casket, feeling grateful for his brother’s presence at his back.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Jon sat down on the couch, long legs stretched in front of him, and pulled off his tie. “Why does the sun have to be so damn hot?” Alistair paused in the midst of pouring them drinks, amused. “Because it’s the sun?” “Ha ha.” Jon said in a bored voice as he sniffed the air, and grimaced. “O neg? I hate that stuff.” “Sorry.” Alistair said as he put the bottle back in the fridge. “They didn’t have anything else.” “One would think with all your money, you could afford artificial blood.” Jon said, accepting it with a sigh taking another sip, grimacing further. Alistair shrugged as he sat down opposite Jon. “I happen to prefer the real thing. And why not? It is so readily available these days.” “I prefer the real thing too, but anything’s better than O neg. It tastes like shit.” “Don’t be a baby.” Alistair took a sip of his own drink. “A bit of O neg won’t kill you. You’re an O neg yourself.” “Am I?” Jon looked startled. “How do you even know that? There was no blood typing or transfusion when we were human, and I’m pretty sure I’d never needed a transfusion since I turned.” Alistair took a sip of his drink and tapped the side of his nose with a finger. “Oh, all right.” Jon said. “I do it I’m not as good as you at that. I can’t tell the blood type from just the smell.” He took another drink muttering, “show off,” under his breath. “It’s good to have you here.” Alistair said softly.

“Don’t get used to it,” Jon said. “I’m out of here come sundown. Just hate it when it’s that bright outside.” “I know what you mean.” Alistair said. Despite what the books said, sunlight wasn’t anathema to vampires. Still, it sometimes hurt their eyes to be out in the bright sun for long, and they got sunburnt far more easily than humans, though they healed from it far more quickly too. “Your fledge looks good.” Jon said. “Not as good as he does on his show, but clothes are a good look on him.” Alistair rolled his eyes. “Ray isn’t my fledgeling any more. And you make it sound as if he stars in a porn show. It’s a cooking show.” “Ah, I should have known you’d be watching it.” Jon said. “Any reason why I shouldn’t?” “Nope,” Jon said lightly. “But after everything he did, one would have thought-” “Jon,” Alistair said. “Just say what you want to?” “Just that. After what he did, and now he’s not even your fledge, why do you care?” Alistair shrugged. “That’s my business, isn’t it? I’d forgiven Ray a long time ago.” Jon snorted. “I know that. Like that’s a surprise at all. But why?” “Why I forgave him?” Alistair took another sip of his drink, frowning. He wasn’t sure why. He hadn’t even known he’d forgiven Ray till after it had happened. “No, you dummy!” Jon sighed as he put his glass on the side table, still almost as full. “I can’t drink that. God, what I wouldn’t do for some art blood.” “You’re taking this penchant for abbreviations to ridiculous lengths.” Alistair said, leaning back and closing his eyes, placing his almost empty glass down.

“Why did you turn him?” Alistair’s eyes flew open. “What?” “Why did you turn him in the first place? And don’t give me that crap about saving his life. I know you. You would have stood there and watched him die without turning a hair if you had wanted. You saved him because you wanted to. You turned him because you wanted to. But what I don’t get is why.” “I didn’t want to turn him.” Alistair said. “And that’s the truth. I just...” He sighed. “I could have let him die. It would have been kinder in a way. But...” He shook his head. “I can’t explain it, Jon. I just didn’t want him to die. If you’d asked me before it happened, I would have said I would let him die and have meant it, but at that moment… I just didn’t want him to die.” “So, you turned him.” Alistair nodded. “And now I need another drink.” “You do know that blood doesn’t make us drunk, don’t you?” Jon sounded amused. “Nothing does,” Alistair said. “But it gives me something to do.” The doorbell rang, and Jon lifted his eyebrows. “Expecting visitors?” “It’s Magnus.” Alistair said, “I can smell the stench of that cologne from across the street.” Jon rose and went to open the door while Alistair took another glass. He hoped Magnus wasn’t averse to O negative. He was an A positive, so perhaps not.

Chapter Twenty-Three

They sat in the living room, silent and pale. Almost everyone who had come for the funeral had already left, including the vampires. Magnus had murmured his condolences and Ray had told him that Alistair had broken the bond. Somehow that had seemed important. “Two others have been killed.” Magnus had said softly. “I know this is a bad time for you. Should I ask someone else?” That might have been the sensible thing to do, but sense had never been his strong point. “I'll be back in Miriwok by the end of the week,” he'd said. How was he to break the news to his family? Mom hadn't even moved from where she had sat down when they had got home. Eve was sitting with her arms around Mom's waist and her head on her shoulder. Mom was patting Eve's back almost like a reflex action. Dan was sitting at the other end of the couch, his son on his lap, dozing off, and Dan had his arms around him, his head buried in the dark curls. Brett was too old to sit on his father's lap, but Ray could understand Dan's need to have him there today. His eyes roved over his sleeping nephew. He was more like his mother than Dan, from the dusky skin to the curly hair and snub nose. He looked nothing like the three-year-old Ray ed. Nat sat between Ray and Dan, occasionally rising to answer the door or to give instructions in low voices to someone, and answering calls to both her phone and Dan's in hushed tones. Anton was sitting opposite them, his boyfriend sitting on the chair next to him. They were holding hands, which made Ray miss Alistair. Alistair. He hadn't told Alistair either that he was going back. His phone vibrated in his pocket and he took it out. It was a message from Jerry Heard the news. Getting on a plane. See you in the morning. He sighed. Should he tell Jerry not to bother? Not that it would stop him. He sat

back and closed his eyes. “Are you all right?” Nat whispered. “Do you need to go lie down?” Ray shook his head and gave her a smile. When had smiling become so difficult? “No, I'm fine, I just-” he shrugged. What were they doing anyway? Dad was gone, he was buried, and they had planted rose bushes on his grave as per hunter tradition. So, what were they doing now, sitting here as if waiting for something when there was nothing to wait for? Mom stood up as if she could hear Ray's thoughts. “I'm going to my room,” she said. “I need to lie down for a bit.” “Do you need something to eat, Daphne?” Nat was on her feet too. “Should I heat up some soup?” Mom smiled at her, a curve of her mouth that made her look even sadder. “No, thank you, Nat. You put that boy to bed and go and have some rest.” Rest. That sounded both good and awful at the same time. How could they even think of resting when it had only been a few hours since Dad 's funeral? Dan rose with Brett still carefully held in his arms. “Good night, Mom.” Mom left and Anton and Bruce rose as well. “We'll be heading to bed too.” Anton said. Eve stayed where she was. “You can put Brett in my room,” Ray said as he stood up and grabbed his coat. “I'm going out.” “Ray, where-” Eve started, but Dan shook his head at her and said, “Be home before Mom's up.” “Okay.” Ray said before he left. He stood outside, closing the door behind him and leaned against it for a

moment, just breathing. He was surprised to see the lights in the houses. Of course. It was only just past eight. People didn't go to bed this early. It was even more surprising to see everything look the same as before. How could the world just spin on when Dad was gone? How could he still feel the nip in the air, how could he still see the sky dotted with stars and feel the breeze on his face when Dad wouldn't ever be able to? He looked at Alistair's house. All he wanted was to go there. Alistair had pulled him through when he had lost Shane. Surely, he would be able to do the same now. But what if that asshole Jonathan was still there? Ray didn't want to run into him. Instead, he turned towards the hills, tugging his coat closer to his body. It had been such a bright day. From where had this wind come now? It didn't matter. Did anything anymore? He reached the top of the first hill and sat underneath the tree. It felt as if he couldn't take another step. To go down, to the stream, where Dad had taught him and Shane the constellations… he couldn't, not now. Shane was gone and Dad was gone and he was still here, and he couldn't go there. That place was full of memories, and most of them were linked to Dad. His phone vibrated again and he took it. Where are you? It was Alistair. At the hill, he replied. Do you need to be alone? Did he? Ray wasn't sure. I don't know, he typed back. May I come there? Yes. Alistair was there, and he sank on to the grass beside Ray, not speaking. “Can you hold me?” Ray asked.

Alistair said nothing, but drew Ray into his arms and they sat there, till Ray sighed, and turned his face into the warmth of Alistair and said, “Is Jon there?” “No,” Alistair said. “He left a couple of hours ago.” “Take me to your house. Mine's too full.” “Okay,” Alistair said as he gathered Ray close and the next moment they were in the familiar living room. “Can I sleep with you tonight?” Ray asked. “I don't want to be alone,” “Of course,” “I'm going back to Miriwok,” Ray said as he lay on the bed, still dressed in the same clothes he had worn during the funeral. Alistair lay next to him, holding him, and Ray's face was buried in his neck. “Magnus told me about what was happening. Ray, someone else could do it.” “Yes, but then I would have nothing to do and too much time in my hands.” Ray said. “I need this. Can't you see that?” Alistair hugged him even closer. “I just don't like the idea of you being alone there.” “I'll be okay.” Ray said. “You don't always have to be.” Alistair said. “I know,” Ray sighed. “I need this, that's all. I need something to keep me from thinking about all this shit, and this hunt would do that.” “I can come with you.” It was tempting, so tempting, but Ray shook his head. “Mom will need you. You're her oldest friend. She and Dad… they'd been together so long.” “Since she was twenty.” Alistair said. “Two years before she had your brother.” “I've heard the stories,” Ray said. “But you were there, weren't you?”

Alistair nodded. “Ned used to say he was married to his work. And then he met Daphne. She was thirteen years younger, and they fell for each other like a ton of bricks.” “Forty-five years.” Ray whispered. “How will she survive?” “She will. She's strong,” Alistair paused. “Will you?” “I have to.” Ray said. “Sometimes it's all you can do, you know.” “It's a good enough thing.” Alistair said. “Jerry's coming tomorrow.” Ray said. “Your producer?” How did Alistair know that? Did he watch the show? That had never occurred to him before. “He's also a friend,” Ray said. “But yeah, he does produce A Ray of Sunshine.” Fortunately, Alistair didn't make any comments on that, saying instead, “So, you'll be going back with him?” “That's the plan. I still have to tell Mom, though.” “She'll understand.” “I hope so.” They didn't speak further, just stayed in each other's arms, listening to the other's breathing and lay there. I need to be back before Mom's up. The thought was at the edge of Ray's consciousness as he slipped into a disturbed doze.

Chapter Twenty-Four

Alistair woke him around eight, murmuring, “Weren't you saying you needed to be home before Daphne's up?” Ray yawned. He wasn't rested, but he wasn't tired too much. His brain just wanted to shut down. It didn't want to think or . “Did I say that out loud?” Ray asked. Alistair nodded, smiling. Ray placed his hand on his cheek. “Did I tell you I love you?” “Not today,” Alistair said, drawing him close and kissing him, morning breath and all. “I love you.” he whispered against Ray's lips. “Hold me for a minute,” Ray said, his arms already around Alistair. “Fuck! I wish I weren't going.” “Do you want me to call Daphne and tell her you're here?” Ray shook his head. “No. After... After what I did the last time I lost someone... You can't really blame them if they...” He shrugged. “I understand,” Alistair said. “But you do plan on telling them eventually?” “Yes, but I don’t know when,” he said. “I also need to tell them I'm leaving, to tell Jerry I'm going back with him, to book tickets…” He glared as Alistair chuckled. “What?” “Some things about you never change.” Alistair smiled at him. “You're telling me you aren't as lazy as fuck these days?” Ray asked, grinning. Alistair laughed. “I'm afraid that's something you'll have to live with.” Ray kissed him. “I can do that.” He pushed himself away from Alistair, not wanting to go, to face the real world, where his father no longer existed, to deal with his grief. Being with Alistair,

being in his presence made it all seem like a bad dream, kept the grief at bay. Even he couldn't explain how it was, except that it was. It was just one of the things about him that was immutable, as unchangeable as his feelings for Alistair, and as constant as his own habit of making impulsive decisions at the last minute. Becoming a vampire was perhaps the only decision he had thought through. He had regretted that when he'd seen the expression on Alistair's face, as he never had to for any of his impulsive decisions, not even the one where Shane and he had stolen Dad's car and had ended up wrecking it, though they had ended up uninjured. “I need to leave.” he said, sighing. “Okay.” Ray got up, straightening his clothes. Even a blind person would be able to tell he had slept in them. He found his shoes and put them on before walking back to the bed and kissing Alistair. “I love you.” he said. “Thank you.” “You're welcome, Ray.” Alistair said, holding his face between his hands for a moment longer. Ray felt bereft as soon as he was out of the bedroom. He had never been in Alistair's bedroom before. Not even when he had lived in this house, irrespective of whether Alistair was home. He didn't look around, not wanting to those days. Not because he hadn't been happy then, but because he didn't want to face the piercing sense of loss he felt on being back in this house. Or what it felt like when he had become human again. It had been like waking up after being unconscious for so long, as if his senses were working properly only then. It made little sense since as a vampire, his senses had been sharper and far superior. It had also been pain as he had never known, since the bond between him and Alistair was no longer the same. Where it had been alive and pulsing with life and shared experiences and feeling, now it was just a buzzing at the back of his head, something that felt alien and intrusive. But that was before he lost his father. Had he thought losing Shane had taught him everything about loss? Did he think it equipped him to face more grief? He was an idiot if he thought that.

The sun was shining when he stepped out of the house. It stopped him in his tracks. There was little traffic at this hour, and everything was just so - normal, so ordinary. Everything looked the same as it had last night or the day before, or even the week before. Nothing had changed in the world while their lives had been altered irrevocably. He walked across the streets, feeling the sun shine on him, the warmth of the rays on his body, the fragrance of something cooking in a nearby house, the purple flowers peeking through from a tall bush near their front lawn. Ray opened the door and entered. Eve was curled up on the couch, asleep, and shivering slightly. He took off his coat and covered her, careful not to wake her. Going to his room, he opened the door softly so as not to wake Brett, and tiptoed to the bathroom. He needed a shave and a shower and to change his clothes. He brushed his teeth and shaved, before tiptoeing to the wardrobe to take a fresh pair of jeans and a T shirt, and going back to the bathroom to have a shower. Brett was still sleeping soundly when he came back to the room and for a moment, he envied his nephew. To be able to sleep after a loss such as this was a blessing. He also found himself pitying Brett. He was too young yet to understand the magnitude of his loss. Ray couldn't his grandparents, but he ed the way Eve and Dan talked about them. Dad would always be only a character in his father's stories for Brett, and wasn't that the saddest part? He went back to the living room where Eve was moving in her sleep, small whimpering sounds escaping her. Probably a nightmare. He went to her and held her, not waking her. Eve had always been a sound sleeper, but even then, he was careful not to disturb her. Let her find what sleep she could, even if it was fraught with nightmares. “Do you need coffee?” Anton whispered from behind him. “Please,” Ray half turned to give his brother a smile. “Mom up yet?” “She took a sedative, according to Nat.” Anton placed a steaming mug on the coffee table. Eve stopped moving and whimpering, relaxing and sighing. He released her and went to pick up the mug. It was hot enough to scald and he blew on it.

“You were out all night.” Anton said. “I'm fine.” Ray said, taking a tentative sip. It didn't burn his mouth and he took another. “I know. I can see that, it's just... I don't know how to talk to you any more, Ray.” Ray stared at him. “What does that mean?” He still kept his voice down, mindful of Eve slumbering in the room. “It's just... You were my big brother, and now... Now you're younger than me... And everyone talks as if you're still my big brother, but... I don't feel that... And I don't feel like you're a younger brother either... I don't know how I feel... And I don't know how to act around you or how to talk to you...” Ray put his cup down and went to his brother and hugged him. Anton hugged him back, tight enough to make him breathless. “It doesn't matter.” Ray said. “We're brothers, and will always be. Younger, older, it doesn't matter. I love you and I always will.” “I love you too.” Anton said, his voice thick.

Chapter Twenty-Five

Eve yawned, waking from a dream she couldn't . She couldn't even if it was pleasant or not. Wait, was that a coat over her? She sat up and it fell to the floor. She took it. It looked like Ray's, though her recollection of what her brothers had worn yesterday was hazy. “Good morning.” Brett said, from a chair where he seemed to have been engrossed in a game on his phone. “Good morning.” she said, getting up and stretching. She felt hot and her mouth was like sandpaper. She needed a shower urgently, and some water to drink, not necessarily in that order. “Uncle Ray told me not to disturb you.” he said. “I hope I didn't.” “No, you didn't.” She yawned again. “What time is it?” “Around eleven. Everyone already had breakfast and grandma said yours is on the table. You may have to make toast fresh though.” “All right.” she said. “Where's everyone?” “Uncle Ray is out. He said a friend was coming. Uncle Anton and Bruce have gone out for the day, and grandma said she was going to Alistair's. Mom and Dad are in their room.” “I'm going to have a bath.” she said, “I was about to suggest it. You look funny with your hair all stuck up like that.” Brett said. “Can I turn on the volume of my game now?” “Sure,” she said. “Or you can watch TV or read a book.” “I read books on my phone.” Brett informed her. “I don't buy paperbacks. That's part of what nearly destroyed earth, you know.”

Eve was amused. “And what do you know about it?” “I learn about it at school, about how they cut down trees to make paper.” “They used to,” She corrected. “Now they use recycled paper and plastic for books, you know.” “My teacher says plastic nearly killed the environment in earth.” “That was before we found out how to degrade it safely. Now it’s used to make books. Safe, I assure you, and no threat to the environment unless you’re planning on burning them.” “Mom says only savages burn books.” he said. “She would be right.” Eve said, smiling. “See you later? I really need a shower.” He nodded as he went back to his phone and she could hear the chiming sounds as he turned the volume on his phone. At least it wasn’t gunfire which was all Ray, Shane and Anton used to be interested in at his age. She went to her room, closing the door behind her. It was painted a soft mauve. Mauve had been Nancy’s favourite colour. She felt tears prickle her eyes. Why was she destined to lose everyone she cared for? Seeing Josephine at the hospital the other day had been a shock. She looked exactly like Nancy, except Nancy never looked that old, and she never would. The rogue vampire had made sure of that. Did Jo that night? The night when the rogue had gone after her family, and Shane had risked his life to save hers? It was unlikely. Alistair had used his powers to make her forget. That was not something that wore off with time. Why had Mom and Dad even asked him to do that? Larry and Pen had also been part of that decision. And Alistair… he had not said no either. She sat on the floor, her back to the door. Nancy would have been happy and proud to see Jo now. She was a doctor, successful, happily married with children of her own. At least Shane’s sacrifice wasn’t in vain.

She really ought to shower, but moving from the floor seemed like such an effort. Why couldn’t she just stay here? Why shouldn’t she? What had she left anyway? She was alone. She had always been alone. Ever since Nancy had died, she had been destined for loneliness. What was the point in holding on any more? Her eyes went to the framed photograph on the wall. It had been taken on Ray and Shane’s sixteenth birthday, and had all of them in it, even Uncle Gary and Gisele. Aunt Sarah wasn’t there, though. Oh right. She had snapped the photo. Her eyes moved over her father’s face, mentally contrasting the man in the picture with the man she had seen on the hospital bed. He hadn’t changed all that much. She was right about that. But her mother… Mom looked so young, so happy… Shane’s death had dimmed her light and now Dad… Eve drew a gulping sob. What would it do to Mom if she were to do something rash? She drew her knees to her chest, hugged them close to her body, and wept, burying her face in her knees. Her stomach grumbled, reminding her she had not eaten. Rivulets of sweat were running down her back and she was breathing hard. How could she feel hunger and all these other things at this time? She pulled herself to her feet, and nearly doubled over with the pain that hit her abdomen. Oh. It was that time of the month again. She had forgotten the date with everything that was going on. She stood there, leaning against the door. She had better get to the bathroom before she started bleeding. Of course, the bleeding wouldn’t start until much later. She pushed herself to lean against the wall as she walked to the bathroom. There should be some painkillers in there. Mom always kept them stocked. Her eyes went to the closed window. Mom had gone to see Alistair. It wasn’t surprising. He had been their oldest friend. He’d probably watched Dad grow up, the way he did them. How strange that Mom should have gone to him for comfort when he probably needed it as much. She pushed that thought firmly to the back of her mind. Alistair was a vampire. Probably, he was used to seeing humans die every day. How did he deal with it? Would he be able to tell her? She downed a painkiller and waited for the pain to subside before doing anything else. She was an idiot to have wanted to harm Alistair. He had always been a friend to her family, and she had forgotten all that, forgotten that Alistair was the one who had helped her find the vampire who had killed Nancy, that he

had ignored the treaty in favour of helping her, that he had never told anyone of that breach of law by her. He had understood her need for revenge. How could she just have forgotten all that? She sighed as she went to the kitchen. She was hungry, but wasn’t sure she would be able to eat. Everything seemed such an effort. She poured herself a glass of juice. The doorbell rang. Perhaps Mom was back. She went to the front door only to see Brett opening it and a deep voice saying, “Is Eve in?” She stiffened, and before Brett could invite the stranger in, she had put down her glass and had pushed past her nephew, putting herself between him and the stranger. “What do you want, Aiden?” The vampire lifted his hands as if in surrender. “I just wanted to pay my respects and express my condolences.” She stared at him a moment, and turned to Brett. “Go inside,” she said. “And don’t ask anyone to come inside when you answer the door, no matter who, okay?” “Dad already told me,” he said. “I wasn’t about to invite him inside, aunt Eve.” He sounded a bit subdued and she smiled at him. “I know, I just… just go inside, all right?” He nodded and went inside and she stepped outside, closing the door behind her, fixing Aiden with a hard stare. “I told you not to me again.” “I know,” he said. “I wouldn’t have, but I heard about your Dad and… Eve, I’m sorry.” “Go,” she said. “Please. Before anyone else sees you.” “Are you worried about me or them?” he asked. “It doesn’t matter. Just leave.”

“Just like that?” “Aiden, please go.” she said, before opening the door, stepping inside and closing it. She couldn’t deal with this on top of everything. What was Aiden even doing here when he knew she didn’t want him here? She couldn’t even talk to Mom, and she didn’t want to tell her brothers about Aiden. Mom and Dad were the only ones who knew, and now Dad was gone and Mom… she couldn’t put this on Mom on top of everything else. She had to deal with it herself.

Chapter Twenty-Six

Alistair felt him before he saw him. Aiden. He felt a surge of pleasure that he made him feel guilty. One of his oldest friends was dead and here he was, feeling glad that his first fledgeling had come to visit him. I’ll be upstairs, Aiden’s thought came through the bond. I’ve been travelling nonstop and I’m tired. Whatever you need, he conveyed. We’ll talk later. How’s she doing? Not very good. How about you? Death isn’t new to me. Alistair. Not good. It was something he wouldn’t have itted to anyone, not even Jon, but Aiden was different, had always been different. Aiden was silent and Alistair turned his attention to Daphne. She hadn’t spoken a word since she came, just sat in a chair, still holding the drink he had handed her. She hadn’t taken even a sip. He didn’t say anything either, waiting for her to open up if that was what she wanted. If she only wanted company, he could provide that. It wouldn’t be the first time he was comforting a Haspel after the death of a partner. He still ed Bert breaking down in his arms after Marta’s death. Ned had been only four then, and not old enough to understand what it had meant to lose his mother. “I need sedatives to sleep,” she said suddenly, breaking the train of his thoughts.

He made no comment. It was understandable after all. “He never thought he’d die like this, you know?” she said. “I mean, most hunters do die at the hands of rogue vampires.” It was a truth. Despite the fact that most of the old hunting families still kept their traditions alive and trained their children, the incidence of mortality from rogue vampires was high. There were also people like the Calens who turned their back on their traditions in the belief that it wasn’t required any more. There was a treaty in place after all. That the treaty had provisions regarding rogue vampires should have warned them, but it didn’t. It was surprising the Calens had stayed unscathed till the rogue that had killed Tate, Nancy and Shane. “I think...” she said softly. “I think given a choice, Ned would have preferred to go out fighting.” “He did go out fighting,” he said softly. “It was just a different kind of fight is all.” “He was fighting his own body.” she said, her voice breaking. “Fighting just to stay alive, to draw breath, to make his heart beat, and we… we were arguing over trivialities at home.” “They weren’t trivialities.” he said. “You all had things you needed to work through, and you had to do it. Don’t beat yourself up over it.” “I should have been there with him.” she whispered. “It wouldn’t have made any difference,” he said. “He died in his sleep. Dan and Anton were both there. You being there would have made no difference.” “It would have to me.” she said, wiping the fresh tears that were spilling out of her eyes. “Daphne, you can’t change what happened, no matter what. All you can do is honour his memory and go on.” “I don’t know if I can.” she said. “It’s like… what even is the point? Why should I? What have I left?”

“You have four children and a grandson. I know you don’t want to hear this, but they do need you, Daphne.” “Do they?” she muttered. “Dan has his wife and son… they have one another, and Anton has Bruce… Eve… she has never needed anyone, not since Nancy died, and Ray… he hasn’t needed anyone either, not since Shane died…” She looked at him. “I wasn’t there for them, you know. I… I lost a child… and I… I felt I had the right to grieve, to be human, to...” Her voice broke. “They needed me then, and I wasn’t there...” “Daphne,” he said, making his voice as stern as possible in the face of her despair. “You have a right to grieve, for as long as you need. You have a right to be human, and you’re wrong about your children. Because they have other people to find solace in, because they fool the world into thinking they don’t need anyone, doesn’t mean they don’t need you. Perhaps it’s time you dropped this mask you wear in front of them and show them just how much you’re grieving. Perhaps that will allow you to grieve together as a family.” “I just feel so empty.” She confessed. “It’s as if there’s nothing inside… everything… it was all Ned, and now he’s gone, and… I don’t know what I’ve to give my children except this emptiness...” “Then give them a chance to fill it in their own ways… Daphne, it’s no shame to need your children at a time like this.” She gave a half sob, half chuckle. “You are a wise old man,” “I do it to being old,” Alistair said, feeling his years as he spoke, all eight hundred seventy-two of them. “But I’m not wise.” He had no idea what he was saying to her. It hurt him to see her suffering and he was only trying to alleviate it. “I feel like I can’t… I can’t break down in front of them...” she whispered. “Like I… If I do that, how can they grieve?” “Daphne, you and Ned were together for forty-five years. You have a right to grieve him, just as you had a right to grieve Shane. I won’t say this is going to get better, because I don’t know if it will, but I do think that it will help to have your children with you. Let them be there for you, if that’s what they need, or let them lean on you, or you can lean on each other, but don’t shut them out, even if

you think it’s to protect them.” “I don’t know how.” she whispered. “I’ve never done it… I don’t know how to do that...” “Go home,” he said softly. “Sit with them, and do what your heart tells you to do, and for once don’t listen to your head. If you can find a way to talk to me, you’ll find a way to talk to your kids. Trust me.” She nodded. “I guess I’ve got to try.” She stood up, and wiped her eyes once more, and her cheeks. “Do you want me to come with you?” he asked as he went towards her to give her a hug. She shook her head, her arms around him. “Thank you for being my friend.” she whispered. “Take care.” he whispered back.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Aiden was sleeping in Ray's old bed. He looked worn, in a way Alistair had never seen him. It hurt something deep within him, and all the protective instincts he had flared up. Yet, he knew there was nothing he could do. Whatever Aiden was going through, he had to deal with it himself. There wasn't much Alistair could do, except be there. He went downstairs, making no noise, not wanting to wake him. Aiden was the only fledgeling of his who still used the bond to communicate. Most others kept it masked, not because they didn't want it like Ray, but because they didn't feel the need to use it. They would just come to him if they needed him. Alistair sat on the couch and leaned back, closing his eyes. He was so weary, and all he wanted was to forget Ned. It was not the first time he was losing someone, not the first time he was losing a friend, not the first time he was losing a Haspel, but it never stopped hurting. If he had stayed away from them, perhaps it would have been better, but what of all the things he would have missed, of the things he had gained? At least he had got the chance to talk to Ned before he died, to make his peace as it were. A message appeared on his phone. He could feel the minute vibrations even though the phone was kept on silent mode without vibrating. He checked it. It was from his former employer. Something inconsequential about having credited his last pay in his as per the of his contract. He could have foregone the pay and made the man forget ever having employed him, but he hadn't. He had made sure no one would what he looked like. His employer would now delete his number and never it again. Another message, this time from Ray. How are you? I'm okay, he typed back. Your friend's flight reached? Yes, we're having lunch before coming home. Jerry and I'll be going back

tomorrow. Fortunately, tickets were available. Alistair smiled to himself. He only had to use his powers to make one person prepone his flight, so Ray would have a ticket available. Ray didn't know, and Alistair wasn't going to tell him. After all, there was no need for Ray to know. He closed his eyes. He was more tired than he had realised, even though it was emotional exhaustion more than physical. That Ray loved him hadn't even sunk in when Ned had died, causing his priorities to change. What would Ned say about him and Ray? Would he have approved? What would Daphne say? Alistair wanted to think that the opinions of Ray's family didn't matter, but they did, to Ray, and to an extent him. He might ignore it even if they disapproved, but he didn't think Ray would be able to as easily. He sighed. It was a problem for another day, but if Ray was leaving the next day, wouldn't it be better to tell them so they would know where they stood? And yet, what was there to tell? What were they exactly? Neither of them had put a name to it. It was still new and something so precious that he was afraid to give it a name lest it turn to dust. It was better for things to stay as they were for now. After all, they had agreed to take it one day at a time, and if a day came that they wanted the world to know, they would tell them. He yawned. He would just stay here for a while, and relax, and try and not the fact that his oldest human friend was dead. The hurt was almost physical and he resisted the impulse to rub his chest, knowing from experience that it didn't help. No matter what it felt like, this pain wasn't physical. It was the awareness of someone watching him that tugged him awake from the slumber into which he had fallen. He opened his eyes to see Aiden sitting opposite, watching him, a fond expression on his face. “You know that's creepy, right?” he asked as he sat up and stretched. “You shouldn't watch people while they sleep.” “Since when did you become Mr. Prim and Proper?” Aiden asked and Alistair laughed. “How are you?” Aiden asked. “As always,” Alistair said. “What about you? You do look like shit.” “Try raising a human child by yourself.” Aiden suggested. “You wouldn't believe

how much time and effort and energy it takes. No wonder humans always look so tired. It saps even us.” Alistair nodded, understanding. He had never had to raise children, but he had babysat for the Haspels enough to understand what Aiden was talking about. “Are we going to talk about it?” he asked. “Or are we going to skirt around it?” “I don't know,” Aiden sighed. “I don't fucking know, Alistair. I thought…” He raked his fingers through his hair. “I don't know what I thought, but… it certainly wasn't this.” “Are you regretting it?” he asked softly. A shake of head, slow, but determined. “I don't regret Jess one bit. But… yes, damn it! I do regret a lot of what came before, and I… I just wish I hadn't got in so deep before I accepted the truth…” Alistair didn’t think Aiden had, as his presence here proved, but he was not going to call him out on it. “I wish I knew the words to make you feel better,” Alistair said. “But I don't, and I've a feeling that no words will help.” “Thanks for at least wanting to help,” Aiden muttered. “That's more than that asshole of your brother offered.” “You should know better than to expect it of him.” Alistair smiled. “The jerk came to my house,” Aiden said. “Last night. Told me what happened, and, heck, he sounded sincere for a while there, and I thought… stupid of me, obviously.” “Jon told you about Ned's death?” Alistair was surprised. It was so unlike Jon to go so far out of his way just to inform Aiden of Ned's death. Aiden nodded. “Would've reached last night, but couldn't rush off with Jess. Had to drop her at a friend's house. Her Mom takes Jess in if I've to be away and I sometimes babysit her kids if she has to work late. It's convenient. Humans are…” He waved his hand, “helpful, like that.” He threw a cushion at Alistair. “Stop laughing, you ass!”

It felt good to laugh, to forget that he had lost yet another person, and to relax. “I would like to meet her someday.” he said. “I wish you could. Come visit when you can. She'll love to meet you. Keeps asking me why she doesn't have any uncles or cousins.” “Tell her you are an only child and so were your parents and grandparents.” “I already have.” Aiden said. “But she asks why I don't have any friends. She was extremely curious about Jon, especially since I didn't ask him to come in, but was talking to him on the porch.” “He wouldn't hurt her.” Alistair said softly. “Maybe not,” Aiden said. “But I can't take a chance, Alistair. Not with Jess. He's Jon after all.” He paused. “Thank you for not telling Daphne I was here.” “She'll find out.” Alistair said. “I'm assuming you visited Eve.” “Could have gone better.” Aiden muttered. “I don't know what her problem is? I just wanted to say I'm sorry. Why should she react so badly?” “Eve has always been- complicated,” Alistair said. “Some humans are.” “Most of them, if you ask me. I hope Jess doesn't turn out to be one.” Alistair started laughing again and after glaring at him for a moment, Aiden ed in.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Ray put away his phone and Jerry lifted his eyebrows. “Who was it? You look pleased.” Was he? Ray supposed he was. It was strange. He had not thought it possible to smile so soon after Dad’s death, and yet here he was, texting Alistair and smiling like a fool. “A friend.” Ray said, drinking his coffee. He always took it black, and sweet. He had already had breakfast at home, but Jerry appeared to be ravenously hungry judging by the way he attacked the pancakes. “You know they won’t run off the plate.” he said, amused. “I know, but I haven’t eaten in twenty-four hours,” Jerry swallowed so he could speak. “I hate the food in planes.” “It’s not so bad.” Ray said. “I didn’t say it was bad.” Jerry said. “I just said I hate it.” “Ah,” Ray grinned. His phone beeped and he checked it. It was a mail from Magnus, sending him details about the latest two victims. This time the victims belonged to Berdol which lay beyond Criston. It made more sense. Localised killings weren’t common for vampires. But the two victims in Berdol had nothing in common with each other nor with any of the victims in Criston. Again, he had been given all details, and they were similar. Everyone asleep, no witnesses, the victims dead the same way, leases in order. No common points. Ray frowned. Was this even a vampire? Apart from the bite marks and the brute strength with which the victims’ throats had been ripped out, there was nothing that suggested vampire. What if it was a human serial killer with a vampire

fetish? What if this was some obscure weapon? For some reason, his brain refused to accept that sensible theory, insisting that it was a vampire. Besides, if it was a human killer, there should be some similarities between the victims. Even psychopaths didn’t kill randomly. There was always something. But not here. He stared at the photographs of the latest victims. One of them was young, barely out of their teens, and Ray felt bile rise in his throat. He went through all the details once again. There had to be something he had missed before. And then he saw it. It was such a little thing, but it was there. That settled it, anyway. The killer had to be a vampire. One who either liked or hated B positive blood, because that was the one thing all victims had in common. They must hate it. If they liked it, they would have drained the victims and they hadn’t. Which meant they hated it. But hatred of a blood group wasn’t reason enough to kill people belonging to that group. Unless the vampire was feral. But his control over his abilities belied that theory. Fuck it! “Did I tell you I was coming back with you?” Ray asked. “Hm?” Jerry asked, polishing off the last of the pancakes. “You are? That’s great. Have you got your tickets?” “Yes,” Ray nodded. “There was a seat available. Have you made any arrangements for stay while you’re here?” Jerry shook his head. “The hotel was full, man. I’d no idea it would be, but don’t worry, I’ll manage.” “How?” Ray was amused. “And why should you? You can stay in my house, you know.” “What would your folks say?” Jerry asked. “And so soon after your Dad’s death? Wouldn’t it be an intrusion?” “Not to me,” Ray said. “I would be happy to have you, Jerry. It means a great

deal, you coming all this way.” “Shut up, you idiot,” Jerry said, rolling his eyes. “You’re embarrassing me.” Ray chuckled, which was also something he hadn’t expected to do. It was so good to have Jerry here. The server brought the bill and Ray paid for the food, ignoring Jerry’s protests. “I’m the producer,” Jerry said. “That means I pay the bills.” “Not today, you don’t.” Ray said, leading him back to the car. Jerry had a shitty sense of direction. Ray’s was marginally better in that he didn’t lose his way in familiar cities and if he had GPS. Jerry was hopeless everywhere and with any tools. Maps, GPS, nothing helped him. “I knew it was this way.” Jerry said when they reached the car. “Sure you did.” Ray said, getting in and keying in the commands for home. “How are you holding up, Ray?” Jerry asked, getting in beside him. Ray sighed. “I don’t know,” he said. That was the truth. He had absolutely no fucking idea how he was feeling. Was he even feeling anything? “I’m sorry,” Jerry said, his voice gentle. “For what it’s worth. Lee sends her regards and condolences as well. She would have come with me, except Kat was taken ill.” “Oh? How is she?” Ray was touched that Jerry had come, leaving his sick daughter and that Lee had let him. “Lee says it’s nothing catching, that she needs rest and warmth and fluids.” “Ouch,” Ray said. In spite of the regulated temperatures of most cities, many people preferred the natural turn of seasons, and the Mayor of Miriwok was one such. Winter had never been harsh there, but it wasn’t exactly warm.

“Yea,” Jerry said moodily. “I had to buy one of those atmo regulators. Cost the earth I can tell you.” “So, you would rather Kat doesn’t get her warmth?” Ray teased. “No, of course not,” Jerry said. “Just if that bastard would do what we elected him to do, everything would be fine now.” “I thought he was doing that,” Ray said. “I mean weren’t you all for the natural ebb and flow of seasons?” “Yea, but I didn’t know any better, did I?” “How can you say that after going to Saelie every year?” Ray asked, amused. “We go there to shoot our show.” Jerry said. “Not to live. It’s always sunny whenever we go, and I thought that was what natural ebb and flow would be like. That we’d have sun as well as snow.” “We’re too far away from the equator to have sun like that.” Ray said. “But we do get the sun.” “It’s an insult to the idea of sun.” Jerry declared and Ray chuckled, though a fresh worry had taken hold of his mind. Jerry was expecting him for the shoot of the next season of their show, but how could he go anywhere without finishing the hunt? The car turned into the familiar street and Ray bit his lip. How was he going to tell Jerry? To explain to him? Telling civilians about vampires was never a good idea.

Chapter Twenty-Nine

As they were reaching his home, Ray couldn't help glancing over at Alistair's house. It still didn't look occupied. All the windows and doors were shut and the curtains drawn. Though vampires didn't spend their days in sleep, they still needed to sleep. If they couldn't during the night, they would during the day. Alistair usually slept during the night, and he always used to keep his windows open and curtains open. It made Ray feel strange to see the house look unoccupied when he knew Alistair was there. “Why are you staring at that house?” Jerry asked, and Ray realised their car had stopped. “Sorry,” he said, as he got out of the car and took Jerry's overnight bag. “I was just thinking.” Jerry gave him a smile and took the bag from him, giving his arm a squeeze. “I get it, man,” he said. “It's a tough time for you.” “Jerry, when does the next season start shooting?” “Not till May,” Jerry said. “We need the sun, ? Why?” “I have another job lined up in Miriwok. Relax, it's not a show, kind of a freelance thing I do as a hobby.” Would he have enough time to find the vampire before the shoot started? It was months in the future, but this didn't seem like an easy case. If it came to a choice between the hunt and the show, Ray had no doubt which one he would pick. “Okay,” Jerry still looked suspicious. “You won't be refusing to sign the renewal contract because of this “job”,”—Jerry made air quotes, as he said the word,— “will you?” “It depends on if I can finish it before May.” Ray said.

“Ray,” Jerry muttered. “If you want more pay-” “It's not about the money.” Ray said. “This… what I do, it's really important to me, you know? If all goes well, I can sign the contract before we start shooting, but if it doesn't, I'm sorry, Jerry. I wanted to tell you, just in case things don't happen as expected.” “Talk of a curveball.” Jerry muttered. “Whatever it is, you better finish it. I can't go to the network this late and tell them we've got to replace you.” “I'm sorry.” Ray said, sighing. This was why he didn't tell Jerry during breakfast. He would never shut up about it. Now Ray would only have to listen to him gripe for the duration of the flight. They were at the front door and Jerry said, “Look, if you need some time, I get it, all right? That I can sell. Not some mysterious job that you won't even explain to me.” “It's not that,” Ray muttered. “I didn't want to lie, that's all.” The door was answered by Brett. “It's uncle Ray and his friend.” He shouted as he stepped out of the way to let Ray and Jerry enter. Mom came to greet them, accepted Jerry's condolences, asked him about his trip and about his stay. “The hotel was fully booked,” Ray said. “I thought he could stay here.” “He can have Anton's room.” Mom said. “He said he'll be spending the night at Bruce's.” “Thank you,” Jerry said. “I'll be out of your hair tomorrow. Sorry I couldn't make any other arrangements.” She waved it aside. “We're always happy to have friends of Ray over,” she said. Brett took Jerry to his room after Mom asked him to freshen up and rest after the flight and Ray sank on to the couch.

“Were you two arguing?” Mom asked as she sat next to him. “Not really.” He hesitated. “Mom, I want to go back with Jerry. I want to finish that hunt.” She nodded, though her eyes were brimming. “Of course,” she said. “You should. It's what Ned would have said too.” He put his arms around her and held her close. “What do you want? If you want me to stay, I'll stay. I'll give the case to someone else. I'll stay if you ask me to.” She shook her head, though the front of his shirt was wet and it was soaking through to his skin. Mom had never cried like this, not even when they had lost Shane. “No,” she said, her voice steadier now, and she pushed herself a bit so she could look at him. “You finish that hunt. I'll always want you to stay, but it'll be all for selfish reasons. You should do what you need to. We're hunters, and you're a Haspel. That's why Magnus came to you, and you have to do this. There are things more important than personal feelings.” “Not more important than family.” He reminded her gently. “No,” she agreed. “But this is what we are, as a family too, Ray. We're hunters. We can't turn away from people in need because of our personal tragedies. We just can't… this… this isn't a job, for us… It's a calling… We do it because it saves lives. And we can't stop doing it.” She paused. “This isn't an easy life, Ray. The treaty has made things easier than it would have been for us and for them, but there are always rogues, and not all of them are dealt with by the vampire council. That means we have always to watch our backs and take them down whenever we can.” She paused again. “If you want to finish this hunt, go and do it, and don't let any consideration stop you. Okay?” How lucky was he to have this woman for his mother? He nodded. “I feel like I need to, you know… I feel like I may go insane if I don't have anything to do.” She nodded. “I understand. Go, do it. Get that bastard and hand him over to the council.” “Thank you,” he said. If Mom said it was okay, his siblings wouldn't object. “Where's Eve?”

“Locked in her room. Brett says she had a visitor and she was behaving oddly, and now she won't come out of her room,” Mom sighed. “She needs her space. She had always done so.” “No, she doesn't,” Ray said. “Not Eve. Come,” He pulled her to her feet. “Let's go to her.” “Ray-” She protested, but she didn't fight him. “Mom, she used to do this all the time, don't you ? She wants us to go to her.” He paused. “Is there any ice cream in the fridge?” She nodded. “There's a tub of Vanilla.” He grinned. “Eve's favourite,” He went to the kitchen and got it, and got two bowls and three spoons. “Come, we'll go sit with Eve and eat ice cream.” Mom gave a smothered laugh as she followed him.

Chapter Thirty

“E ve,” It was Ray’s voice through the door, along with what could only be described as banging, and Eve winced. “Go away, Ray,” she said. “Eve?” Mom sounded tentative. “Honey, can you open the door?” Eve sighed. Why couldn’t anyone just leave her alone? She was paying for her mistakes and why couldn’t she be left alone to stew? She couldn’t keep Mom waiting, though. Not Mom. She went to open the door, and Ray pushed past her, brandishing a tub of ice cream as if it was a weapon. Mom followed, carrying bowls and spoons. Ray closed the door with his foot once Mom was inside and sat down with his back to it. Eve stared at him, angry. “Stop glaring and sit down,” he said calmly, taking a spoon from Mom and opening the tub. She plopped down next to him and grabbed the tub. “That’s mine,” she said. Mom sat down next to her, handing one bowl to Ray and keeping the other one on her lap. Eve ladled out a few spoonfuls to each of the bowls, and ate a spoonful. It was heaven. “So?” Ray asked. “What happened?” She shook her head. Ray didn’t know about Aiden. Did she want him to know? She didn’t know. She was a mess. Ray put his bowl down and put an arm around her, and she placed her head on his shoulder. He dug his spoon into the tub and ate some ice cream. “Stop stealing mine.” she said, rapping him on the knuckles with her spoon. “I brought it here.” he said. “That means I can take it.”

“I already gave you.” she said, clutching the tub closer to her chest. “You don’t get any more.” “Play nice,” Mom said as she finished her bowl and started eating out of the tub. “Mom!” Eve said, pouting and Mom grinned. Something inside her was melting, and Eve was surprised at how light she felt. She hadn’t known just how much tension she was carrying. It wasn’t gone, but it was easing and she ate another spoonful of ice cream, allowing her Mom and Ray to dig in as well. It was comfortable with Ray’s one arm holding her close and Mom on her other side. It filled her with warmth. It felt like she could deal with anything. “I can’t believe Dad’s gone.” she said, half afraid she might spoil the interlude. Ray dropped a kiss on top of her head and Mom sighed, taking her hand and giving it a tiny squeeze. “I know, darling,” she said. “I can’t believe it either. I… I expect to see him, to hear his voice… I… I find myself checking my phone to see if he has called or texted before I ...” She sighed again. “He had a good life, and he was so proud of you all, as am I… we should be celebrating his life, not mourning his death…” “Mom,” Ray said softly, his other hand taking their ed ones. “You don’t have to hold things in for our sakes.” “I know,” Mom smiled at them and her eyes were swimming in tears and her lips were trembling, but she smiled. “I meant what I said… I was thinking of Ned, and… he had a good life. We had a good life, a happy life. His being gone doesn’t change that. This was a day that had to come sooner or later, and… I’m just happy he didn’t suffer.” Mom meant it. Eve could tell. “We’re the ones who are suffering.” Ray murmured, leaning back so his head hit the door with a soft thunk. “He didn’t want that, Ray.” Mom said. “He had only ever wanted us to be safe

and happy.” “I know,” Ray murmured. “It’s just… he was everything, Mom… and I… I never even visited...” “He understood.” Mom said. “Ray, we both did.” “How can you when I don’t myself?” Ray whispered, so much despair in his voice, and Eve squeezed his fingers. “You want some ice cream?” she asked. He nodded. They ate in silence for a while and she said, “Aiden’s here,” Her mom’s spoon froze mid-air. Ray ate his and asked, “Who’s Aiden?” Mom put the spoon in her mouth before the ice cream fell off and said, “Her vampire ex-boyfriend.” “Wait, what?” Ray stared at Eve. “You had a vampire boyfriend?” “It was a bit more complicated than that.” Eve said, glaring at Mom, but relieved at the same time. Perhaps it was better this way. “All right.” Ray said. “Why should that upset you so much?” “Aiden and I,” Eve coughed. “We… it kind of started after Nancy’s death… he was more like a booty call, but at some point he started becoming serious, and… he never said anything, but it was evident… and I...” “You weren’t ready for commitment.” Ray murmured, “To move on from Nancy.” “It’s not that I didn’t want to,” she said. “I couldn’t, Ray. I tried… I really did, but… I couldn’t forget her or what we had, even if it was so brief… And Aiden… he was so understanding and… god, it was awful!” “Awful because he understood?” Ray sounded teasing and she rolled her eyes. “He was nice, and kind and understanding...” she said. “And he was head over heels in love with me… I wanted to stop, but… He… he never seemed to expect

anything even with his feelings for me, so...” “Oh Eve,” Mom whispered. She had forgotten Mom didn’t know all the sordid details. “I needed something, and he… it was only physical release for me, and he was safe… till I got pregnant.” “You what?” Ray leaned forward to stare at her. “Ray-” Mom’s tone held a warning. “I’m not… I’m not judging, god knows I’m the king of bad life decisions, but I’m just surprised I didn’t know.” “Ned and I decided it was no one’s business but Eve’s,” Mom said. “So, we didn’t let anyone know.” “Anyone… you mean Dan and Anton don't know either? Wait, when was this?” “Around the time you left home,” Eve said. “So, what happened?” “I wanted to give her up for adoption,” Eve said, “But Aiden wanted her, and in the end, I let him have her.” Eve said. “I didn’t want her, but he did, so it was best.” “He’s a vampire.” Ray muttered. “I’m just trying to wrap my head around the concept of him raising a child by himself.” “He’s also her father.” Mom said softly. “And he was desperate to have her, and I agreed with Eve. I’m sure she would have found a good family, but… her father was here, and he wanted her, so why not let him have her?” “I’m not arguing with that,” Ray said. “Is that why you’re upset he’s here? Because you think that she’s with him?” “I don’t know,” she muttered. “He promised he would never use her to lure me back, that he accepted it was over, but...”

“But you’re afraid.” Ray said. “I never wanted children,” Eve said. “But when I held her for the first time, I… I felt reluctant to give her away.” “But you did.” Mom said. “I did,” she said. “But what if I see her now and I want her? I can’t take her away from him now, and she… it won’t be fair to either of them, and it won’t be fair to him if I try to build a relationship with her when I… Damnit Ray, I used him!” “Eve,” Ray rolled his eyes. “He’s a vampire. Pretty sure you made the deal clear to him. He knew what he was getting into. His feelings? Not your fault, not your problem. And as for the kid, if you want to be part of her life, you do that. Plenty of divorced couples share custody without rancour or awkwardness, and you and he were never a couple.” “Since when did you become so sensible?” she grumbled. “Hey, I’m plenty sensible except when it comes to my own life.” He grinned at her. “Aiden. Now why does that name sound so familiar?” “He’s Alistair’s fledgeling,” Mom said. “Aiden Brick?” Ray asked. “Alistair’s first fledgeling?” “The same.” Mom confirmed. “I’m thinking we should have brought a bottle of whiskey instead of ice cream.” Ray said. “Because I really need a drink.” Eve couldn’t stop herself from laughing and Mom and Ray ed in. It was stupid, and completely inappropriate probably, but Eve couldn’t have cared less in that moment.

Chapter Thirty-One

Aiden and Alistair walked to the Haspels’ front door. “Do you think this is a good idea?” “If you’re here hoping to get Eve back, yeah.” Alistair said. “If you’re here to pay your respects to Daphne, not so much.” “That’s a funny one,” Aiden muttered. “Get Eve back, as if I ever had her. It’s my fault really; she made it very clear where she stood.” “The heart wants what the heart wants.” Alistair said quietly. “But you deserve better, Aiden. I’ve known her all my life, and I don’t think she’ll ever get over Nancy.” “I was fine with that when it started.” Aiden muttered. “I should have walked away when I realised I was getting involved. Hell, she never gave any indication anything has changed and yet I kept hoping.” He sighed. “Like I said, it’s my fault.” Alistair shrugged. “Don’t blame yourself for something that wasn’t really in your control.” he said. He could feel Aiden’s pain through the bond. “Perhaps you should try dating, you know? Try and have a normal life?” “Fool some poor human into thinking I’m one of them?” Aiden made a face. “Solid basis for a relationship, isn’t it? That was one of the reasons why I never could break it off with Eve. She… she knew what I was, and it made no difference.” “Let’s not forget that if not for the treaty, she would have been more likely to stake you than accept you?” Alistair said, rolling his eyes. “I wish I could manipulate the bond to make you fall out of love with her.” “Wait, you can do that?” “If you were younger,” Alistair said. “The bond cannot create attachments, but it

can make people forget them. Why do you think so many people choose to become vampires immediately after suffering a loss?” “Ah… you never used to do that.” Alistair rang the bell. “It seemed manipulative to use people’s emotional distress.” “Jon wouldn’t say that.” Aiden said. “Jon and I are two different people,” Alistair said. “It’s not that he’s bad, he’s just-” He shrugged, unable to come with the right thing to say about his brother. “He’s Jon.” Aiden said. The door opened and Daphne stood there. “Hi,” Aiden said, sounding so extremely awkward that Alistair looked away. He could feel Aiden’s embarrassment and he sent reassurance through the bond. “I’m Aiden, I don’t know if you me.” “I do.” Daphne said. “Come inside, won’t you? Alistair already has an invitation.” Aiden looked stunned and Alistair smiled inwardly. The Haspels were unorthodox in many ways. This was one house where vampires would be invited in, but that was not for the reasons one thought. “Aiden,” he said since Aiden looked like he was frozen. “Thank you.” Aiden said as he stepped inside, followed by Alistair. Aiden looked around curiously while Alistair followed Daphne to the couch, asking softly. “How’re you feeling?” “Better actually.” she said. “Talking to the children… Alistair, it helped both of us. I’m not saying I’m all right, but it feels like I can breathe without falling apart.” “It’s a start.” he said.

“I love all the art pieces.” Aiden said. “Juniper?” “It was Ned’s father.” she said. “I mean, his family had some of those for generations, but when he moved here, he made this collection. Figured if he was going to have to invite vampires in, there should at least be some protection in place.” How can you stand being here? Aiden asked through the bond. I thought I was used to being around Juniper, but this is overkill. Don't you feel sick? It almost makes me want to puke. I’m used to being around it. Alistair replied. The bond was probably the only thing the Juniper didn’t affect, other than their speed. You can be sick, but there’s a Juniper frame to the bathroom mirror. Wouldn’t surprise me. I feel like they’re the ones in control, even though they invited us in. In the poem, the spider invites the fly into the parlour. Aiden huffed out a laugh, startling Daphne, and Aiden blushed and said, “Sorry, just…” He drew a deep breath. “I’m so sorry for your loss.” he said. “I didn’t hear in time, or I would have been here for the funeral.” “It’s all right.” Daphne said. “Is your daughter with you?” There was longing in her tone and her eyes, but Alistair was certain he was the only one to notice it. “No, ma’am.” Aiden said. “She’s back in West Brockland, staying with a friend whose Mom offered to look after her while I was away.” “It’s good you have people to turn to.” Daphne said. “You… would you be having any pictures?” Aiden nodded, looking surprised. “Yes. Yes, I do have some on my phone.” Alistair was also treated to the sight of a little girl in pigtails, maybe around 6, in various places, in a school uniform, at a park, riding a roundabout, eating ice cream, laughing with friends, blowing bubbles… Daphne’s voice wasn’t quite

steady when she handed the phone back to Aiden. “Thank you,” she said. “She… she has Eve’s eyes.” “She does.” Aiden agreed, “But who she really looks like is my Mom. I have this old picture of her as a child. It’s the only thing I have from my human days, and Jess looks almost exactly like that.” Daphne smiled. “Jess.” she said. “It’s a beautiful name.” She hesitated. “Would you mind terribly if I were to visit sometimes? Ned and I wanted to, but we didn’t know where you lived and we didn’t want to use the usual channels, and we weren’t sure how you would react.” The usual channels would mean hunter channels which they used to find vampires they were hunting. They could probably find any vampire they had the name of, but Alistair appreciated that they didn’t. From what he could feel through the bond, Aiden did too. “Sure,” Aiden said softly. “She’s your grandchild. She would like to meet you too. Keeps asking me. I’m sort of getting tired of all the lies.” “Wait till she’s old enough.” Daphne said, her voice gentle. “She’ll have to learn you’re a vampire someday, and… you just have to wait till she’s able to understand.” Aiden nodded. “Thank you, and I could bring her over for a visit. We always take a trip when she has breaks. We could come here. You don’t have to come all the way up there.” “Thank you,” Daphne smiled. “I’d love that.” A noise in the stairs like someone stumbled into something and a moment later, a stranger appeared, rubbing his forehead. “I bumped into the wall,” he said. “Lost my footing in the stairs. I’ve shitty balance. Sorry.” “That’s all right, Jerry,” Daphne smiled fondly at the man. So, this was Jerry Hu, Ray's producer and friend. Alistair observed him with interest. He looked a nice enough guy, a bit of a walking disaster, probably, but Ray needed people like that.

“I didn't know you had visitors.” Jerry said. “Sorry again.” Inept or pretending? Alistair would think a bit of both. Had Ray and Eve sent Jerry to spy on him and Aiden? Or only Aiden? Or was he imagining things? Surely, they wouldn't send a civilian to spy on two vampires? “Alistair here is a family friend.” Daphne said. “And Aiden is also an old friend. Alistair, Aiden, this is Jerry, Ray's friend from Miriwok.” “Jerry Hu.” Jerry held out his hand. “Don't say it. Just call me Jerry. Saves everyone the aggravation.” “Alistair Jerrod,” It wasn't always he used his real name, and it felt strange to his mouth. He shook hands with Jerry. “Aiden Brick.” Aiden shook hands with him. “First visit to Vrelsk?” Jerry nodded. “I've heard your name,” Aiden said thoughtfully. “Wait a minute, you're the producer of A Ray of Sunshine, aren't you?” Jerry nodded, a look of interest in his eyes. “You watch the show?” “My daughter loves it.” Aiden said. “Tries all the recipes. The Ray in the show is your son?” turning to Daphne. Daphne nodded. “I like the show too.” she said. Jerry looked pleased. “Well, if you're friends of the family, perhaps you can convince Ray to sign his renewal contract.” he said. “He says he's got this thing he has to do, but he won't say what it is and he says he doesn't know how long it's going to take. I mean, let's be honest here. Ray is our biggest attraction. I wouldn't be surprised if the network cancelled the show if he pulls out.” Daphne smiled. “It's Ray's decision, Jerry, and I'm sure he wouldn't have taken it lightly. I'm sorry, but I won't interfere in this.” “Well, no harm in asking.” Jerry said, plopping down on an armchair. “So, what do you two do for a living? Where are you from?”

“I live across the street,” Alistair said. “I dabble in the occult.” Jerry must be the first human he had met who didn’t make some inane remark on hearing the word occult. Alistair was expecting that and now he felt cheated which was even more amusing than Jerry’s non reaction. “I'm a teacher,” Aiden said. “In West Brockland.” “That's?” “To the north,” Aiden said. “The mountains.” “Sorry, not too good at Geography,” Jerry said, an apologetic smile on his face. “Ray is leaving tomorrow,” Daphne said. “Eve will be leaving the day after. Dan and Anton said they could stay a while longer, but it's going to be strange, having the house all to myself.” “Um... Jess' winter break starts two weeks from now.” Aiden said. “I could bring her over for a visit, if that's all right with you.” Daphne looked completely stunned “You… you'd do that?” “Sure; we hadn't finalised where to go this year. This is as good a place as any.” “I feel like I'm missing something.” Jerry whispered to Alistair. “Nothing important.” Alistair said. “Mom, is Alistair there?” Ray's voice was heard and his steps on the stairs and why was his heart racing? “Yes,” Daphne replied just as Ray walked in, and Alistair felt his breath catch. Aiden gave him a sideways glance but Alistair couldn't have looked away from Ray even if he had wanted to. It was so incredible that he had managed to survive without Ray for so long. “I need your help.” Ray told him. “I'm stealing him, Mom. Hope that's okay. Hey Jerry.” Jerry waved absently from his chair, engrossed in texting someone. Ray gave

Aiden a curious glance. “Have you met Aiden?” Daphne asked. “Raymond Haspel.” Ray smiled at Aiden and held out his hand. “Eve told me about you. Sorry about the deal you got.” “Aiden Brick.” Aiden shook hands with him. “Thank you. I'm sorry for your loss.” “Thank you.” Ray turned to Alistair. “So, please? I need some help.” As if he ever could deny Ray. “Sure,” He rose. “If you'll all excuse me.”

Chapter Thirty-Two

Ray lay in the crook of his arm, his breath still heaving and his heart pounding. “I needed that.” he said. “So did I,” Alistair murmured, kissing him. “But is this why you asked me here?” “Nope,” Ray sat up and turned, giving Alistair a close up view of his bare back. “I found something, and I needed your input.” Alistair pulled him back to him. “Later,” he said. “What if-” “Shut up,” Alistair said, kissing him. “You do realise that Aiden would have heard us?” At least he had had the sense to mask the bond. “Oh,” Ray said, and Alistair was both amused and exasperated at the horror that dawned on his face. “OH!” “I adore how you never think things through.” Alistair murmured, pulling him back to him and kissing him. “I love you,” Ray said, and he pushed himself away. “I can't think when you look at me like that, so… this is important, all right?” Alistair sighed and lay on his back, his eyes on the ceiling. “All right. Tell me.” “I found a connection between the victims. It's a weird one, though.” “Tell.” “They all have B positive blood.” “B-” Alistair frowned as he turned to face Ray again which was a mistake because Ray looked so utterly delectable he forgot what he was about to say.

“Alistair,” Ray murmured, as he launched himself on him. “What happened to important?” Alistair asked between kisses. “Yes, but this seems more important right now.” Alistair laughed. “Won't Daphne be wondering what's happening?” “I don't think so.” Ray murmured. “She'll be too happy I'm talking to you. Now shut up unless you want me to stop.” He definitely didn't want that. “So,” he said when his brain started working again, “B positive. Definitely a vampire then.” “That's what I think too,” Ray said. “But it doesn't make any sense, even for a vampire. I mean, it's one of the most common blood groups. There must be hundreds with that group, if not thousands in Criston and Bredol. Why these people?” Alistair frowned as he sat up. “That's right, but choosing people by blood groups… that's got to be a vampire? I mean, how would a human even get access to that kind of information?” “Maybe that is the common thread,” Ray said. “Humans won't have access to what blood type everyone has, so they have to restrict their victims based on knowledge. But vampires… they can smell the type even. So, what would cause them to pick and choose?” He looked at Alistair. “I asked Magnus to look into the medical histories of the victims and their families, talked to Grimes over the phone and asked him about the blood types of the families and neighbours. Fun fact. Half the witnesses had the same blood group.” “So, it could be a human.” Alistair said. It was disturbing. Ray was a hunter. He was not equipped to deal with human serial killers. “Don't you think it's a case for the police if so?” Ray nodded. “If so, yes, but somehow… I know that logic seems to indicate that it's probably a human, but… my gut tells me this is a vampire. Grimes sent me close ups of the wounds.” He picked up his phone from the floor and opened the

gallery and showed Alistair. “If you zoom in, you can see those edges. The medical examiner said it had to be an animal, and I don't know of any man-made weapons that can do that. Also, there's the inescapable fact that the entire neighbourhood was put to sleep.” “A sleeping drug in the water supply could do that.” Alistair said. “What about how they gained entry?” “That has been a sticking point so far, since I can only surmise here that they hypnotised someone to invite them in, but since whoever it was is not likely to , there's no way to confirm it.” Alistair wouldn't discount Ray's gut. Vampire hunters had a sixth sense where vampires were concerned and Haspels had even more senses than usual. If Ray felt it was a vampire, it had to be, no matter what logic or reason dictated. He skimmed through the pictures in the gallery, stopping at one. It was the interior of a house. “Is this one of the crime scenes?” he asked. Ray looked at it, his breath ghosting Alistair's shoulder. “Yes.” Alistair zoomed in a bonsai in the corner. “Recognise that?” Ray sucked in a breath. “It's a juniper!” “This can't be a vampire, Ray,” Alistair said. “I mean, we… our powers don't really work around juniper. You know that.” But Ray was not listening. He had taken the phone and was skimming through the images. “There was juniper in every house,” he said. “Carved statue, ashtray, ornamental bowl, bonsai, coaster set, and the final one, the girl who was killed last had a necklace of juniper beads.” “That's weird?” Alistair said thoughtfully. “I mean, other than hunters, most people don't use juniper that much. That is no coincidence, Ray.” Ray was already out of the bed and putting on his clothes. Alistair too got up, using his speed to dress so that he was finished by the time Ray was pulling on his jeans.

“Show off.” Ray said as he grabbed a book from the shelf and handed it to him. “Find me the section on juniper? It doesn't have an index and I don't have the patience to go through the entire thing.” Alistair found it within moments and they read it together. “So, juniper doesn't lose its ability to repel vampires and dampen their powers even in bonsai forms and wooden beads,” Ray said. “Which I already knew, but good to have confirmation. It also says juniper is popular both for Bonsai purposes and for carving.” “And there are two groups of vampires who are more or less immune to their effects,” Alistair said. “One is the very young, who are still in their feral stage, who have no conscious control over their powers, and the other are those like me who are old and have been exposed to juniper long enough to develop some kind of immunity. But I can tell you right now that I think that second part is bullshit, because I don't yet know how to use my powers with juniper around.” “You used your speed just now.” Ray pointed out. “That's just about the only thing that works,” Alistair said. “I guess it’s so we can run away if someone traps us with juniper and attempts to stake us.” “Things balance out, I suppose,” Ray said. “But if this is right, and let us for a moment assume it is. It does say that the exposure it talks about is constant and consistent through centuries, which is not so in your case. So, assuming what it says is true, we have either a feral vampire which is borne out by the manner of the kills, or an old one, which would explain the way everyone was put to sleep.” It did seem as though Ray was twisting the facts to fit the “killer is a vampire” theory, but Alistair wasn't going to point it out. Somehow, he believed Ray was right. He had been in the vicinity of Haspels long enough to know just how good they were at their chosen vocation. “Can I come with you when you go back?” he asked. “I don't like the idea of you tackling this alone.” Ray nodded. “I could use the back up. I just hope Mom won't be too lonely with even you gone.”

“I don't think she'll be. Aiden was promising to bring her granddaughter on a visit in two weeks.” “What?” Ray stared at him. “My niece is coming here?” “Aiden has pictures.” Alistair said. “Give me his number,” Ray demanded. “I need those in my phone.” Ray wants your number and the pictures of his niece, he told Aiden. Give it to him. Aiden replied. You and I need to talk. This is not something I'm ready to discuss. Your funeral. But seriously, a Haspel? Look who's talking. I guess that's fair, but just be careful, Alistair. I don't want you to be where I am now, pining for someone you can't have. That won't happen. It wouldn't. He was certain of it. What he and Ray had was different from what Aiden had with Eve. “You look distracted,” Ray said. “Aiden said to give you his number.” Alistair said smiling at Ray. “Is he gonna give me the shovel talk?” Alistair laughed. “Knowing Aiden, I would say that's a definite possibility.” “I love you,” Ray said, kissing him. “Think that'll satisfy Aiden?” “You don't have to worry about satisfying anyone except me.” Alistair murmured, holding him close and Ray grinned. “You're insatiable.”

“Only with you.” Alistair said. They kissed again, slowly this time, and Alistair closed his bond with Aiden.

Chapter Thirty-Three

Ray grimaced as he entered his house. The flight had been uneventful, and boring. Alistair had said he would him the next day. “I don't need a plane to fly.” he had said, his lips quirking as if in reminiscence. “You're lucky there are no large water bodies between Verlod and Surgron.” Ray had said. Jerry was subdued during the flight, muttering occasionally about faithless friends and of the beaches in Saelie. Ray had ignored him when he went off in that line, talking cheerfully at other times to which Jerry only replied in monosyllables. He would have to bring Jerry around somehow. It wasn't a daunting task. Their spats when it occurred never lasted long. He just needed to come up with either something that would convince Jerry or tell him the truth. He preferred the former. It wasn't that Jerry wasn't trustworthy or that he couldn't handle the truth, but it was something all hunters were firm about. In all their centuries of existence, they had seen that whenever civilians learnt the truth, they attracted the attention of rogue Vampires, and ended up killed. That was a recurring pattern, and Ray was not going to expose Jerry to it. Jerry might be a grown ass man, but there were some things he couldn't handle on his own. His house needed to be cleaned, and everything put away. Ray was not a slob, but he wasn't one for putting things away either. Not unless there was a compelling reason to do so. Would Alistair be staying with him? He should ask him. Were they at that point yet? But they had been dancing around each other for years, so perhaps they were. Were they moving too fast? Stop overthinking. He wanted Alistair with him. It was as simple as that. His phone rang.

“You reached home?” It was Mom. “Yes,” he said. “Unpacking, cleaning and going to rest for a bit. That flight is really too long.” “One would think they would make commercial flights faster.” Mom said. “What with space travel and colonising other planets and all.” Ray chuckled. “That's why they have the transporters. Flights are supposed to be slow. That is their charm.” She harrumphed loudly and said, “You'll be careful? I don't like what I've heard so far.” “Don't worry, Mom. I’ll be fine. How are you doing?” “The same,” she said. “It seems to get worse with time. I just... Some days it's so hard to believe he's gone... Everything else is the same. Why is it that only Ned had to go?” Ray had no answers and Mom wasn't expecting any. “It feels better when others are here,” she said finally. “It felt better when you were all here.” Her voice wasn't quite steady. “But I can't cling to you kids to make myself feel better. I'm thinking of starting a hunters' training camp. Everyone has been enthusiastic so far.” “I'm glad,” Ray said, happy and proud of Mom. Would she never cease to amaze him? “I'll leave you to your things,” she said. “Keep me posted if you don't mind, of any developments.” “Of course, I don't mind,” Ray said. “I'd love to bounce ideas off you when this starts making some sense to me.” “Oh, and Alistair said he's going away for a while. Acted very mysterious. Do you know anything about it?” “I asked him to come help with my hunt.” Ray said, hoping Mom would leave it alone. He wasn't ready to tell people about it yet. Aiden finding out hadn't been intended, and Aiden's shovel talk had been via text.

Hurt him, and the treaty won't protect you. It had made Ray smile and he had replied something about Jess not going to like it if he offed her favourite uncle. “Well, he has given his house to Aiden,” she said now, making him drop the phone. Fuck! He picked it up, “Sorry,” he said, “He what?” “He gave Aiden a lease on his House, I think. Anyway, Aiden said he would be staying there. He already got a job in the local school.” Mom sounded excited. “You like Aiden,” he said. “This isn't just about Jess.” “Ray,” Mom sighed. “He... He's good for Eve, and... I just think he deserves a chance with her.” “Mom, stop playing matchmaker. Eve knows what she wants and it's not Aiden. Besides, you know that we don't choose who we fall in love with. Aiden may be the perfect guy and the perfect father and it's not going to change Eve's heart one bit.” He paused. “Would it change yours if you were in her shoes?” There was a moment's silence and Mom's voice came, very subdued and Ray felt a momentary pang of guilt. “No, it wouldn't, you're right, but Ray, I didn't invite him to move to Vrelsk. I think that was Alistair.” “Is everyone a matchmaker?” He muttered. “Why would Alistair give that poor guy false hope? Eve is never going to love him.” “You may be right, but Ray, I'm really looking forward to having Jess here, and of getting to watch her grow up. Perhaps Eve might like to see her someday too. Anyway, she needs to get used to having them near.” Ray didn't want to argue any more. Eve didn't have to do anything before she was ready. Why couldn't Mom get that? “Have you told Eve yet?”

“This afternoon,” she said. “At least, I've Alistair to blame if this all goes south.” Ray laughed. “I'd pay good money to see her confronting him.” “I would be ashamed if she did,” Mom said. “It's none of her business what Alistair chooses to do with his property. Besides, she doesn't live here. So, it doesn't even affect her.” “You're going to tell her that?” Ray asked. “If I have to.” Mom said. Ray stared at the phone after she had disconnected. Should he ask Alistair? He shrugged. What had he to lose? He sent a text and got on with cleaning. Alistair's answer came soon. I would have thought it was self-evident. Daphne is going to be alone and Jess is starting to ask about grandparents. I thought I'd do both Daphne and Aiden a favour. I love you, Ray sent back. You're the most stupidly sentimental vampire I'd ever met, and I love you more than anything. I love you too, came the reply, and Ray couldn't stop smiling as he went on his tasks.

Chapter Thirty-Four

Ray turned on the voice recorder on his phone as he paced the room. It would be good to have Alistair, but he wouldn't be arriving till the next morning. Even vampires couldn't teleport from one side of the globe to the other. Since there was no one he could talk to about the case, he had to rely on the voice recorder as a journal. Speaking aloud provided more clarity to his thoughts. “Why juniper?” He mused aloud. “There are cheaper wood carvings available, more beautiful art, more stylish bonsai; those beads were rough and lacked finishing, so why those? Sentimental value? Her mother said she carved them herself, so maybe. But she never wore it, just kept it in her pocket. And what about the others? The banker, the third victim had the bonsai, which was uglier than the other bonsai plants in his house. His wife said he bought it himself. Others were all gifts. He kept the plant in the back of a shelf, so why buy it? Why juniper?” He turned off the voice recorder. An idea was beginning to form in his head, but he wouldn't be able to confirm it without doing some checking. But if he was right, it would be better not to let Magnus know. He couldn't let any of the vampires know what he was doing. His phone rang. It was Magnus. “There's been another death,” Magnus said. “This time in Miriwok. Surrey is there.” “I want to see the crime scene and the body,” Ray said. “I also want to talk to the witnesses.” “Of course.” Magnus said. “I shall tell Surrey to expect you and to give you whatever assistance you need. I'll send you the location.”

Ray tapped his phone against his chin once the call ended. This was a truly fortuitous coincidence. But he had to play his cards closer to the chest. He also needed to call Aiden. There was no one else who could offer him insight if his theory was correct. His phone pinged with the promised location, and Ray was out of the house and in his car in ten minutes. The location was a residential neighbourhood four blocks from where he lived. It was neat rows of houses, all looking the same. He drove to the fourth house where a police car was parked and police personnel were moving around briskly. Surrey was waiting outside, and guided him to a parking spot near the police car, before leading him inside. The body was on the floor, the wounds on his throat standing out against the pale skin. Ray's eyes took in the living room where the body was and zeroed in on the small carved Juniper figurine on a bookshelf. He went to pick it up, unable to feel the texture through his gloves, and noticed Surrey's discomfort. “I had to interview witnesses outside.” he said, quietly. “That thing's making me sick.” “It's supposed to.” Ray said, putting it back. “Do you mind if I examine the body?” “Forensics are done with it, so go ahead.” Surrey said. Ray knelt by the body and looked at the wounds closely, taking photographs with his phone. Surrey was standing by the front door, looking outside, probably to turn away anyone who would come in. He examined the dead man's eyes and noticed that the throat had not just been torn out, but the head had almost been ripped off the body. He took a couple of photographs more and checked the corpse's hands and wrists and took a few more photos. He straightened and turned to Surrey. “I'm done,” he said. “Any theories?” Surrey asked. “At the moment, I'm inclined to think that this is more in your alley than mine.” “Meaning?”

“That juniper made you sick. It would have had the same effect on any vampire. It is more likely this was a human.” Surrey drew a deep breath. “This changes everything.” “Of course, I can't be certain, but at the moment, that is my theory.” He paused. “There was juniper in all the victims' houses.” “Is that the common point?” “That and their blood groups,” Ray said. “What was his blood type?” “B positive,” Surrey said. “You're telling me all the victims had the same blood group?” Ray nodded. “This is getting more complex by the minute,” Surrey said. “I'm getting a headache just by thinking of it.” Ray laughed. “Welcome to my world.” “Do you want to talk to the family and neighbours?” Surrey asked. “Might as well. Who found the body?” “The husband. The last thing he re is going to bed while the victim was still in the living room, watching TV. He said he was overcome with sleepiness all of a sudden, as if he had been drugged.” “Did you check the water for traces of sleeping drugs?” “Will now,” Surrey said. “But if that turns out negative-” “Back to the vampire theory. But how did they gain entry to the house?” “As I said, this is just getting more complex, but,”—Surrey stopped and faced Ray,—“If this is a human, then we have a serial killer on the loose, and he has been killing for weeks, going from town to town, and we have been sitting on it, without letting anyone know.”

He sounded upset and he was right to be. “Let me talk to the husband.” Ray said. “Perhaps we can get a confirmation either way.” The husband was a thickset, balding man who was obviously devastated enough that most of his answers bordered on the incoherent. “Who would do this?” He kept saying. “Who could hurt Hamilton? He never...he never hurt anyone...he...O god why! He was only a preacher. Why would anyone do this?” Ray expressed his condolences, feeling utterly helpless in the face of the man's grief. Was this how his Mom was feeling right now? He walked away, before he said something awkward and put on the professional mask. He talked to a few neighbours who also expressed the sudden and extreme sleepiness they all had felt. Later, Surrey walked him to his car. “Poor bastard.” he said. “The husband, I mean. They had been married fifteen years. To lose someone like this, and to have to be the one to find the body...” He shook his head. “Poor bastard.” Ray nodded, agreeing. It was always so hard for the ones left behind. The dead were fortunate in a way, like Shane, like his Dad, but he and his family were still here, dealing with the loss and learning how to breathe without them. He got into the car and waved goodbye to Surrey, wrenching his thoughts away from the depressing paths it had gone down. How lucky he was trained to lie without any changes in his facial expressions or heart rate and breathing. One thing was certain: this was no human. His suspicion of earlier had been confirmed, and he was torn between anger and amusement at Magnus. He was a fool for underestimating a Haspel, and Ray was going to prove it to him. He would wait till Alistair came home before confronting Magnus. Alistair would be the best judge of if that would be the right move. He went back to his house and added the photos to the folder he had created.

Chapter Thirty-Five

Alistair could feel his heart rate going up as he rang Ray's doorbell. Was he really doing this? Staying with Ray? True, Ray had asked, but Ray never thought things through. Were they ready for this? Ray opened the door, his whole face lighting up, and Alistair felt all his doubts melt away. “Come on in,” Ray said. Alistair walked inside, kicked the door shut, dropped his bags and took Ray in his arms. “You don't know how much I've missed you.” he said. “Likewise,” Ray said, smiling wide. They kissed, Alistair pulling Ray closer to him till he couldn't feel or think, there was only Ray and their need for each other. It was the need for air that made them break the kiss and Alistair could feel his lips tingling. “Do you want the tour of the flat?” Ray asked. “The tour?” His brain seemed sluggish. Ray nodded. “We could start with the bedroom.” Alistair felt his face split into a grin. “Subtle.” he said. Ray smiled before diving in for another kiss and Alistair's back hit the wall, but he hardly noticed, his hands had got under the hem of Ray's shirt and he wanted more. More of Ray's kisses, his skin, more of Ray. “Bedroom.” Ray gasped against his lips, “Door to the right.” Door. Right. Oh right. Alistair sped them inside, divesting both of them of their clothes in super speed as well, and they fell on the bed, hands and lips and bare skin and moans, and skin slapping against skin. “So, how's the case going?” Alistair asked afterwards. They were clean, thanks

to his super speed, but still naked. “I had a breakthrough.” Ray sighed. “But I need your advice. I think I know why Magnus came to me, and it wasn't for my abilities. He was counting on my inexperience. He was thinking the ten years I spent as a vampire meant I wasn't as good as the others.” Alistair frowned. “What does that mean?” “Juniper.” Ray said, adding to Alistair's confusion. “And the fact that the leases of the houses or the titles were all in the victim's names, the partially ripped out throats.” “I'm still in the dark.” Alistair said. “They were all newly fledged vampires. The Juniper was there to protect their families from them. The sleep? That was probably them practising their powers. I did some digging. The neighbours and families all experienced the same kind of drugged sleep for varying time periods ranging from two months to ten days. Also, their throats. They were beheaded, but whoever did it used their teeth, and their healing powers attempted to mend, but there was way too much damage, and once the connection to the brain is severed-” “No more healing.” Alistair finished, “Which is why it looked as if the throats were torn out. It was the head that was ripped off. And the leases were in their name, so the other vampire didn't need an invitation.” Ray nodded. “Exactly. I also talked to Aiden. He keeps juniper items in every room in his house as a precaution. It stands to reason whoever sired them had advised them to do the same. It helps build the immunity of the new vampires to the thing too,” Alistair didn't know what to think, what to make of the fact that Magnus had lied to Ray, and had foisted this case on to him under false pretexts. Should he be concerned or should he just let it slide? “Magnus had to have known,” he said aloud. “The council knows about every fledgling.” “Oh, I've no doubt he did,” Ray said. “Thing is should I let him know I found out about his deception or continue to feed his minions the lie that I think a human did it?”

Alistair laughed. “You what?” “Let them stew on that for a bit.” Ray chuckled. “I think that if whoever attacked them is feral; that would explain the blood group as well. And why these people were killed. The attacker's targeting fledgelings, and they are probably a B positive which in all likelihood their sire wasn't a fan of.” “That can drive even a normal fledgling crazy.” Alistair murmured. “The sire's presence and approval are what all new fledglings crave for, even more than blood.” “I have a theory that vampires actually hate the type of blood that they themselves possess. It's not an emotional thing, more of a physiological thing? Would explain why you find it so hard to drink B negative,” “And why Jon hates O negative and Aiden O positive.” Alistair said. “You used to hate A positive when you were my fledgling.” “Exactly, now the sire has B positive blood, and he has turned someone with B positive blood, but can't stand to be around them; he tries to use the bond to help them, but the fledgling’s in the feral stage and the bond can only do so much.” “They need the presence of their sire.” Alistair said. “They know it's their smell. It's hard to mask those things in the bond.” “So, they're killing what smells like them.” Alistair muttered. “Including their sire.” “Which brings us to another interesting conundrum.” Ray said, his eyes sparkling. “We have seven victims so far. They were all killed on different days. Magnus came to me after the fourth murder. The grocery store owner. I think he was the sire. There was more than one juniper item in his house. He had no family, and the house was owned by him. The neighbours were put to sleep every night in their memory, that to them it's pretty much the norm.” “So, after the first three deaths, the council asked him to control his fledgling, and he tried, but was killed instead. Now, they have a feral fledgling in the wind, and no way to find them.”

“So, they came to me, lying, and thinking I'll find the vampire and hand them over to them.” “Aren't you going to?” Ray nodded. “That's the agreement, but since Magnus lied, I think I am entitled to change the . So, do you think I should confront Magnus?” “The council will know his identity,” Alistair said. “Confront him. I'll come with you if you need me.” “Nah, I'm good,” Ray said. “He should have ed I was a Haspel. I was hunting from my cradle, almost.” The words should not have made him feel so, but they did; send a jolt of want through him. He was on Ray in a moment, pinning him to the mattress and kissing him. Ray laughed and kissed him back, freeing his arms with almost ridiculous ease; not that Alistair was holding them that tightly, but even then Ray shouldn't have been able to free himself so easily. “If I'd known all I needed to get in your pants was boast about what a great hunter I am, I would have done that years back.” Ray teased. “Shut up and kiss me.” Alistair ordered and Ray obliged, still grinning.

Chapter Thirty-Six

Alistair woke slowly, but completely. It was perhaps just before sunrise. Ray was fast asleep next to him. Alistair studied him, the lashes that swept the cheeks, the firm chin, the high cheekbones, the snub nose, the body that was fit, but not overly muscled, the powerful legs. It was so hard to believe that they were here, that he was here, in Ray's apartment, in his bed, that Ray was here, that they were together. Alistair leaned forward to press a soft kiss on Ray's forehead, carefully sweeping away the locks of hair that had fallen on to his face. Ray's breathing and heart rate were both regular and steady, but that meant nothing. He was a hunter. It was rarely that he allowed his body to take control of his brain. It was so incredible, this feeling of having Ray near him, in his arms, and he felt an immense swell of gratitude and love. He untangled himself carefully from Ray's limbs, and got out of the bed. He didn't need food or beverages. Most human food made them sick. The old ones were able to hold it in till they were private before throwing it all up. But drinks were a different matter. They could drink anything, from shakes to juices to alcohol to milk to tea and coffee. Having a coffee in the morning was more habit than anything at this point, but the work helped him. Mornings were not easy for him. Their bodies were attuned to being nocturnal, and having to adapt to human schedules was difficult, but making coffee, cooking, such things helped. Ray used to ask why he cooked when he couldn't eat, and Alistair had never been able to give a satisfactory explanation other than that he liked it, that it helped. He had never given it much thought till Ray had kept asking him. It had to be the motions, he decided. The routine, the repetition, that sort of grounded him? Plus, he liked drinking coffee. He couldn't feel the taste, and it did nothing to his system, but he liked how the scalding heat of it burned its way down. Ned always used to say he didn't know how he could drink it so fast. Ned used to love his coffee, enjoying each sip, and taking his time over it.

Alistair pushed Ned out of his mind. That was the only way he could go on. If he allowed himself to mourn everyone he'd lost over the centuries, it would never end. Grief was not something he could afford, even if he were an immortal creature. Because the humans he lost… they all had other humans, and their grief had always seemed more important than his. The people they left behind had their lives irrevocably altered, and they were mortals, and what difference did it make for him ultimately? No one is indispensable. But some people are irreplaceable. He started grinding the coffee beans by hand. The fragrance and the action both calmed his mind. He was glad Ray had an old-fashioned kitchen. No gleaming modern gadgets that would give coffee at the touch of a button or at a command. He put the percolator on and started on breakfast. Ray used to love toast and poached eggs back when he was human. There was not much to be done, to be honest. It was the simplest thing he could make. He also decided to make some muffins. Ray used to love muffins when he was human. There was a whole watermelon in the fridge. He left it untouched. He had just put the muffins in the oven when Ray walked in, hair sticking out every way, and stifling a yawn with the back of his hand, dressed in a pair of shorts and a tank top. “You made coffee? Thank you.” Ray poured himself a mug, and started drinking in large sips and gulps. Alistair chuckled. “Did Ned never tell you off for disrespecting coffee that way?” he asked. “He used to give me hell.” Ray laughed. “All the time. Mom used to scold him, telling him he should let everyone have their food the way they wanted.” He looked at Alistair, a soft smile on his lips. “You made breakfast too.” Alistair nodded. “It helps,” he said. “Doing things with my hands. This... We're not made to be diurnal.” Ray nodded, comprehension on his face. “And you're baking muffins for the same reason.”

“Also, because you like them. Used to, I mean.” He had no idea what Ray liked now. “I love them,” Ray smiled. “I haven't changed that much.” “So, when are you ing Magnus?” Alistair asked as Ray put the pieces of toast and the eggs on his plate. He was glad he had made enough. Ray had a huge appetite. “I sent him a text just now,” Ray said, in between mouthfuls of food. “Now the ball's in his court. I'm expecting he'll either visit or call.” Alistair nodded. “He'll know . Vampire senses.” The scent of sex was so hard to get rid of. Ray got it, and he shrugged. “I don't see how that's any of his business.” “It isn't. I just... I wasn't sure how it feels to you when every vampire knows when your family doesn't.” Ray made a face. “I guess I need to call Mom. But... What do I even tell her?” “I can't tell you that,” Alistair said. “You know how I feel, but... What this is, is up to you.” “I'm in this for the long haul,” Ray said, his eyes meeting Alistair squarely as he placed his plate on the counter behind him. There were only a few feet of space separating them. “So am I.” Alistair managed to say past the lump that threatened to choke him. Ray surged forward, and Alistair caught him around the waist and their lips met in a kiss that was messy and sloppy. The doorbell rang. “Must be Magnus.” Ray muttered, not moving away. They were still close enough to be sharing air. “I should probably get it.” “You should.” Alistair murmured, his hands dropping away as he cursed

Magnus. He had shitty timing. Ray stepped away and went out of the kitchen, leaving Alistair to catch his breath and follow at a more sedate pace. Ray's breathing and heart were back to normal and Alistair had himself well under control by the time Ray opened the door. Magnus' eyes flickered to him, but there was no change in his expression. He would have heard him before they ever opened the door. He lifted his phone with its display towards them and the message Ray had sent visible. “Impressive, Mr. Haspel,” he said. “I didn't think you would do it. I underestimated you.” “I think you did.” Ray said. “How about the truth now?” “His name is Melton Todd. He worked as a mechanic. I don't know how he came to know , but he did. He was obsessed with vampires all his life; you know the online places where all kinds of weird theories are born?” Ray nodded and Magnus continued. “He was fairly active in those. Becoming a vampire seemed to have been the pinnacle of his ambition. He approached Burt, who obliged.” He paused. “I don't exactly know what happened. Burt had had fledglings before, and none of them had ever gone off the deep end, but Burt said he couldn't somehow bear to be in the same room with him. Something to do with how he smelled.” “Tell him your theory Ray.” Alistair said. Ray explained and Magnus nodded slowly. “It would make sense. The scent of vampire blood is more intense than that of human blood. That would explain why Burt wasn't so repulsed by Todd when he was human. And he wouldn't have been able to predict what would happen.” “Give me everything you have on Todd.” Ray said. “I also have a condition.” Magnus shifted, but nodded, his face tight. “He is not to be harmed.” Ray said. “It is not his fault. You will find a way to help him.” “Ray,” Alistair started. He loved Ray for wanting to help Todd, but it just was not possible.

“It is impossible to help him without his sire.” Magnus said. “I'm sorry, but without the bond, there's just no way of bringing him back.” “Yes, there is.” Ray said. “Turn him back, and if he wants to be a vampire again, find him a sire who will not reject him!” “Mr. Haspel,” Magnus said softly. “I'm the head of the Vampire council. What you ask for isn't as simple as it may seem to you. He killed seven vampires. There are vampires out there who lost their fledglings, and a few who lost their sire. All of them want blood. They won't be satisfied with anything less.” “As I said before, in that case, you can find him yourself. Since he isn't hurting humans, I don't feel the need to involve myself in this.” Magnus sighed. “I have to take this to the council. I can't make a decision by myself.” “I'll wait.” Ray said.

Chapter Thirty-Seven

He closed the door and turned to Alistair whose expression was so indescribably fond that he felt his knees go weak. “Do you think I'm a fool?” he demanded, his voice coming out hoarse. Alistair stepped into his space and caught him, pulling him flush against him. “I think you're the kindest, the most amazing person it's been my privilege to know.” “And to bed?” Ray couldn't help teasing, but he loved seeing the desire kindle in Alistair's eyes, setting the blue eyes ablaze. Alistair made a sound like a growl as he kissed him, and Ray clung to him, his mouth opening and his tongue demanding entry in Alistair's mouth. He lost himself, and lost track of time till the sound of the timer going off in the oven jerked them both away and his lips were tingling. “We could ignore that.” Alistair whispered against his lips. “All right.” Muffins weren't as important as this. “You're wearing far too many clothes.” Alistair's hand had found its way down his shorts and was stroking Ray's erection. His mouth silenced Ray's moan. Ray didn't realise they were in the bedroom till his back hit the bed. His hands were everywhere. He just couldn't stop touching. The sound of the doorbell broke into the pleasant haze, and Alistair let out a noise of frustration which Ray agreed with completely. “It's Jon.” Alistair said, as he pushed himself up. “Bastard.” Ray giggled, unable to help it. The tone of his voice and the expression on his face was just too funny. Alistair shook his head, but said nothing as he got dressed. Ray followed suit, more slowly. The bell rang again and Ray winced. They went to the door together with Alistair opening it.

Jon looked strange, looking shabby and his usually immaculate hair disarranged as if he had been clutching it in desperation. “Alistair.” Jon threw himself on to his brother's arms, breaking down. Ray sighed and rolled his eyes before saying, “Come inside, Jon.” Alistair half carried, half dragged Jon across the threshold and placed him on the couch, but Jon clung to him and wouldn't let go. Alistair held him and gave Ray an apologetic look. Ray shrugged, squeezed Alistair's shoulder before moving into the kitchen. What do you give a vampire who was having a breakdown? He had never seen Jon like this and it hurt him to see the pain and anxiety in Alistair's eyes. He opened the fridge and took out the bottle of artificial blood. He didn't know if Jon had any preferences or dislikes, which made artificial blood the safest option. He poured two glasses and took them to the living room. Alistair mouthed a thank you as he took one and coaxed Jon into drinking a bit. He asked no questions, just made Jon drink. Ray sat on his other side, not touching him. Jon hiccupped. “I'm sorry,” he whispered. “I had no one else to go to.” “It's okay,” Alistair said, his tone soothing. “You can always come to me.” “Haspel,” Jon asked. “Do you have any... You know the stuff that knocks us out? I think I need that.” “It's going to knock you out for 6 to 8 hours straight.” Ray said. “Sure you want that?” “I need that.” Jon said. “What happened?” Ray asked. “Tell us that and I'll give it to you.” Jon glared at him with tear stained, red rimmed eyes. The effect would have been comical if not for the fact that Jon was so obviously devastated. “Hamilton Fade was my fledge.” Ray felt the air whoosh out of his lungs, and Alistair's arms went round his brother with a soft, “Oh Jon!”

Ray rose and went into his bedroom, opening the shelf which held his hunting equipment. The pill Jon asked for was made from wolfsbane with a dash of rose. It would knock any Vampire out. He shook one on to his palm and took it to Jon, silently handing it to him along with the second glass of blood. Jon downed both and said, “Thank you,” before he was out like a light. “You can put him in the spare bedroom.” Ray said. “It's more comfortable than the couch.” He went to the kitchen and opened the oven door. The muffins were done, a bit burnt, but he ignored it and bit into one, even though it scalded his mouth. He sat on the kitchen counter swinging his legs and eating muffins. He was still there when Alistair found him. “I'm sorry about Jon.” he said, sitting next to him. “And thank you for allowing him inside.” “Was that how it was for you when I became human again?” Ray asked. “Ray-” “Damnit Alistair!” Ray looked at him. Why couldn't Alistair just tell him? What was the point in all this if this was there hanging between them? “Ray, it's in the past.” “I need to know!” he said, his voice rising and he dropped it. “I love you. Nothing is going to change that. But I need to know. How am I a part of your life when you won't share things with me because you think it's going to hurt me?” “Because I don't want you to feel guilty about it!” Alistair said. “Ray, I love you. And what happened... We both suffered because of it... But it was my choice... Believe me. I let you go because I had to, because I was already in love with you, and I wanted you to have your life back!” “Was it like that for you?” Ray asked, relentless. “Yes.” Alistair's voice was tight, his whole frame taut. “It was.” Ray placed a hand on his knee. “It was like that for me too when I turned back.”

Alistair hugged him and Ray held him. It was awkward, their position with Ray on the counter and Alistair standing, but Ray didn't care. “We still need to talk,” he said. “I know,” Alistair kissed his hair. “We will.” “About what I did to you when I forced you to turn me,” Ray whispered, kissing him, ignoring Alistair as he muttered Ray's name, “and about Dad.” “What about Ned?” Alistair asked softly. “How long are we going to pretend you didn't just lose your best friend?” Ray asked. It hurt to think of Dad, and to talk about him, but they both needed to. “You've known him longer than any of us. You watched him grow up. You watched him grow old. Don't tell me it's not hurting you to lose him because I won't fucking believe you.” “It did.” Alistair whispered. “It does. I miss him so damn much. It's... I can't believe he's gone.” “Me neither.” Ray whispered, clinging to Alistair even more tightly.

Chapter Thirty-Eight

In the middle of chopping up vegetables for lunch, Ray stopped, breathing out as he tried to imagine how Alistair must have felt in the days after he had turned back. It hurt so fucking much. At least Jon had Alistair. “Did you have anyone?” he asked, one hand gripping the knife and the other gripping the edge of the counter where the chopping board was. “Hmm?” Alistair didn't take his eyes off the stovetop on which a pot of crustacean stew was cooking “When... When I turned human, did you have anyone to go to?” “Aiden knew something was wrong,” Alistair gave the pot a stir, and closed it, lowering the heat and turning to Ray. “And there was Jon.” There was a time even the sound of Jon's name would have caused Ray to feel a prickle of annoyance, but that was before. Now, all he felt was a wave of pity. He had no doubt it wouldn't last. Jon was Jon after all. “Did you go to Jon?” He asked. He nodded. “He's my brother first.” he said quietly. “He always has been.” Ray nodded before bending his head and started chopping the rest of the vegetables. “You know, despite everything, I've never thought of Jon and you as close,” he said. “Till today.” Jon had come to Alistair when he lost his fledgeling. Alistair had gone to Jon in similar circumstances. How many centuries had they been leaning on each other in times of need? How had he never thought of it before? “I wouldn't call us close, either.” Alistair said. “It's just... we feel more comfortable opening up to each other? Before you, I wouldn't have dreamt of going to anyone else when I had need of a shoulder to cry on, and Jon... It has always been me for him, and I know we should have discussed this, but-”

“No, it's all right,” Ray smiled at him, showing both his and his disbelief. “I mean if Dan or Anton or Eve or Mom needed me, even in the middle of the night, I would be there. He's your family.” “Jon can hardly be equated to the of your family.” Alistair said. “I mean he's obnoxious, abrasive and has the ability to piss off just about anyone. But you're right. He is my family.” “Was he older to you?” Alistair shook his head, his spoon held suspended in mid-air. “Nope. He was the youngest.” Alistair's voice had softened. “Our father was a farmer. There were three of us. Edgar was the oldest, the one who was to be the Chief's standard bearer when he was old enough. I was the middle son, the one everyone's eyes slid off, as if I wasn't there, with the result I got into more trouble than any other boy in my village, vying for attention I suppose, and Jon... he was rambunctious, but in a way that made him everyone's favourite. He was the apple of my parents' eyes.” Alistair gave the pot a few vigorous stirs before turning off the stove and removing it from the heat. Ray started tossing the salad, while Alistair got out the bowls. “What was it like?” Ray asked. “Living on earth?” He wanted to ask more, about what happened to Edgar, about how Jon became a Vampire, about how he turned Alistair, but didn't. They had time after all. Earth, though. He had never been to earth; the mother planet had regulations that were a mile long and Dan had assured him it was nothing much. Ray had always been fascinated by it. About how life chose that planet, about how man evolved and promptly set out to destroy everything that kept them alive, about how the first vampire evolved sometime in the bronze age, about how the vampires survived and evolved, always staying hidden. “Earth was...” Alistair smiled softly, reminiscently. “Perfect would be an understatement. The village where we lived was on the edge of a forest and wild animals abounded. We farmed the land with instruments that were crude. We used animals for work. We were hungry more often than not, but we killed only for food and in defending ourselves.” His voice became wistful as did his expression, and Ray could not tear his eyes away. “We never took more than we

needed, never cut down a tree except for our survival. To build our houses and to burn our fires. There was no money in those days. We gave away our grains, vegetables, milk and meat in return for furs and implements and knives and animals. We had little, but we fed everyone with what we had. It wasn't a perfect life, but it wasn't a bad one.” “Money, the root of all evils.” Ray murmured. “I think that humanity would have been better off bartering their essentials. Perhaps we would still have been on earth.” Alistair said softly, ladling the stew on to a bowl. The aroma made Ray's mouth water “Do you miss it?” Alistair shrugged as he poured himself a glass of blood. “I was one of the first on this planet. This is my home now, and earth... It's good that we didn't destroy it as seemed inevitable at one point.” Ray had heard the stories, of how people of all countries came together in what history called the biggest and most bloodless revolution of all time. They declared they would do no productive work, sabotaged every single machine they could and demanded that the planet be protected and that conservation of Nature had to take priority over development. “We are ready to go without better technology and more convenience if that means our children would have fresher air and water,” they had said. The Movement had saved earth, had forced people in power to focus on nature in lieu of money. They ate in silence, Alistair was probably ing his life on earth, and Ray was thinking of all the history lessons he had. “When this hunt is over,” he said. “Can we go to earth together?” It struck him that this was an almost proposal. Earth was the most popular destination for couples on honeymoons. Alistair nodded. “I'd like that.” “We should get started on unpacking your last box.” Ray said. “It's only books.” Alistair said, his eyes flickering to Ray's bookshelves in the

living room which were all full. “We'll get a shelf and we'll unpack your box. There's room for another shelf.” Alistair smiled at him. “If you say so. It's your house.” “And I have four more credits to increase the area of the house.” Ray said. This was why he had got a house instead of a flat. He went to the in the wall and entered his ID number and the area he wanted based on the size of Alistair's box. “Huh, took only one.” he said. “We're building a shelf after lunch.” He punched in a few more numbers on the . “What do you say?” “I'm game.” Alistair said.

Chapter Thirty-Nine

The shelf didn't take long. Alistair hadn't known Ray was good with work like this. It surprised him how little he knew of Ray even after knowing him virtually all his life. The unpacking was a different thing altogether because Ray had comments on every book. “Dracula. I loved it despite its many inaccuracies.” “He did his best.” Alistair said. “Whom did he model the character on?” Ray asked, openly curious. “On a man who was never a vampire.” Alistair said, taking the book and shelving it. “To the best of my knowledge, the author had never met a vampire.” “Huh,” Ray picked up the next book. “Dracula's Estate. Did you keep them sorted alphabetically?” “Some people like some order in their books.” Alistair held out his hand, but Ray was looking at the book with a nostalgic smile. “I loved this book, you know? Dad had a first edition which he wouldn't allow me to touch after I read it for the fourth time. I saved up my pocket money to buy a paperback edition that I then proceeded to read literally to shreds.” “It's a classic.” Alistair agreed, finally taking it from him and putting it in the new shelf. “I'm surprised you're not talking of the inaccuracies in that one.” “I never noticed them while I was reading.” Ray confessed, a sheepish look on his face. Alistair grinned. “Dracul.” Ray said. “Why am I not surprised? And do you have anything other than vampire books in here?”

“I may have brought some fantasy as well,” Alistair said. “Everything else I left behind.” “And do you have anything written in, I don't know, the last two centuries?” “I don't read new books.” Alistair said with a perfectly straight face. Ray made a snort of disgust and as Alistair dissolved into laughter, he dropped Dracul back into the box and lunged at him. “You ass!” Alistair caught him and kissed him, still laughing. “Bedroom.” Ray said. “We always make it there.” Alistair murmured, kissing him. “I would like to get there at normal speed,” Ray stood up and pulled him up. “If we're interrupted again, I'll kill whoever it is.” Alistair said. “Better put the phones in silent mode then.” Ray whispered, unbuttoning Alistair's shirt. “We should get you some T shirts.” Alistair shut him up with a kiss. It was sometime before either of them could speak. Alistair felt at peace with everything. “We should really get you some T shirts.” Ray said. “Much easier to take off.” “I am good, thank you.” Alistair said smiling. “I don't want to get up,” Ray declared as he half rose and picked up his phone from the floor. “There's a bedstand you know,” Alistair said. “And we might have knocked it off like we did with yours.” Ray said, smirking. “You can't knock it off the floor.” “Can't argue with that logic,” Alistair picked his up from where they had knocked it off.

Ray had gone very still. “I need to go,” he said, bounding off the bed, and opening his shelf where he kept his hunting gear. “Ray?” Alistair was worried. “Do you want me to come with you?” Ray shook his head. “No, I've got this. It's not him. It's just another Rogue vampire who had been attacking long term patients in the Gyren Memorial Hospital.” “That's odd.” Where was Gyren Memorial? On the way to Criston, wasn't it? Half an hour's drive. “A friend of Dan's was dealing with it, but his wife went into labour an hour back, so Dan asked me to have a look since I'm the closest. It's nothing. Just routine.” Ray was dressed in black clothes and had his stake, gun and mini crossbow strapped on to his belt. He put on a white coat. “Don't worry about me.” “Why the white coat?” “Helps blend in the hospital,” Ray said. “Most people see the coat and assume you belong there.” “Be careful.” Ray nodded, kissed him and said, “Don't start on the books without me.” Alistair nodded. “I won't.” With Ray gone, the house seemed too big and empty. Time was ing too slowly. Alistair didn't want to go outside, because he didn't want to leave Jon. He might be waking up soon. He went into each of the rooms just for something to do. Jon was still sound asleep, his slow breath and the soft rise and fall of his chest reassuring. Let him sleep. His nightmare will still be waiting when he wakes. Alistair turned on the TV, but kept the volume low, as he flipped the channels and stopped on a nature channel about Earth and the animals there. This episode dealt with dolphins, and Alistair sat back to enjoy the show. Most of the earth

aquatic animals were absent here since they couldn't adapt to the artificial water or much of the living conditions. Finally, scientists had stopped trying. There was still research going on how to replicate the large water bodies earth had so they could have the same aquatic life here. Though some species adapted to the artificial water, most didn't. Dolphins were a creature that was exclusive to earth. “Can I have something to drink?” Jon asked, his voice raspy as he came towards him, wobbling a bit. Alistair helped him onto the couch and brought him the bottle of artificial blood. Jon drank straight from the bottle and stopped only when the bottle was empty. “He didn't say that stuff makes you thirsty as fuck.” Jon said, slurring a bit. “You're still groggy.” Alistair said. “I know. Isn't that a great feeling? We always wake fully as soon as we open our eyes. I'd forgotten how it felt to feel drowsy, your limbs still heavy, and-” Jon yawned. “And everything seems distant, and all you want is to sleep again.” He yawned again. “I would have, except I was so thirsty.” He snuggled close to Alistair and threw his arms around him, burrowing his face in Alistair's chest. “You're a good brother. Always were. Sorry I'm so difficult. Get scared one day I'll drive you off too.” What the hell was in that pill? He had to ask Ray. If Jon ed any of this, he was probably going to run as far as he could and never come back. “Jon?” But Jon was asleep already. Alistair didn't disturb him, going back to watching the programme on Dolphins. “You'll never drive me away,” he said to his sleeping brother, sighing as he thought of the nights he used to comfort Jon from his night fears. The made-up stories he used to tell till Jon fell asleep, and sometimes Edgar would them, holding them both in his arms and telling them of places he'd been to, of all the others who were jealous because he was the one selected as the Chief's standard bearer, of the girl he hoped one day to marry. Edgar had always been such a shadowy presence in their lives that Alistair was surprised he ed him with such clarity. Jon stirred, and muttered something, tears spilling from between his closed lids.

“Hush.” Alistair murmured. “It's okay. I've got you.” He couldn't help worrying about Ray either, even when he knew he was perfectly capable of handling one rogue vampire.

Chapter Forty

Ray wasn't sure what to expect. Rogue Vampires were unpredictable and most were clever enough to their kills off as accidents. This was in a hospital, so that made it easier. No one had died yet, but Seth was certain some of the patients were being fed on. The council was focused on the rogue who was actually killing people that this one didn't catch their attention. At least he isn't killing anyone. Yet. It was only a matter of time. He went through Seth's notes and observations. Dan had always spoken highly of Seth and Ray could see why. He was thorough and meticulous. Ray visited one of the victims. Maria Brown, a coma patient for the last three years, and now some dirtbag vampire had thought to turn her into his personal blood bag. Ray clenched his fists and evened his breathing. It wouldn't help anyone if he were to get angry. He examined the tiny puncture marks on her wrist. They were evidently made by a vampire. He started examining the other patients too. The vampire had been careful. He drank a little from everyone, leaving alone only one. The patient named Don Severn. He was a frail old man who was on life . Did the vampire leave him alone because even minor loss of blood would have killed him or because of his blood type? Seth had no theories. But then most hunters had not been vampires and didn't know of their aversion to the same type of blood they had. Alistair is lucky he and Jon don’t have the same blood type. Especially considering they were brothers. Ray had to make a decision. Seth could find no pattern to the vampire's attacks. It was completely random. The patients were not all in the same ward, so he couldn't watch them all. Seth had also said he was put to sleep on two nights and drank from. That was a risk Ray wasn't comfortable taking. Hunters often got

bitten during hunts. Some wolfsbane mixed in rose water would fix the wound, but still Ray didn't like the thought of being helpless and in a vampire's power. Unless it's Alistair. He could feel his cheeks grow warm. Focus, Ray. All the patients were not in the same room, but they were on the same floor. All the wards had large windows facing east. There was a building across the street on the east side. Its roof should give him a good view of the rooms. The distance between the two buildings couldn't be more than ten yards. His mini crossbow had an effective range of thirty yards. He should be able to get an accurate shot at ten. It also had a telescopic attachment. Most vampires when they used their powers didn't put entire neighbourhoods to sleep, preferring only the people in the room or at the most in the building. Seth had been hidden in one of the patient's rooms when he was put to sleep. Ray left the hospital and crossed the street to the other building which was a cheap hotel. He went to the alley next to it, made sure there were no cameras, removed his coat, bundled his weapons in it, and went inside. He took a room on the top floor and once alone, took his weapons and exited through the window, using the fire escape it to climb to the roof. He assembled the telescopic extension and lay down, waiting. The roof was cold and hard against his stomach and his arms ached from holding the crossbow in the same position. He legs were stiff and he shook them slightly, flexing his arms too. When the vampire came, he would need to act swiftly, and he couldn't be slowed down by pins and needles. The vampire appeared in the middle of one room so suddenly Ray had to blink twice. He took careful aim and shot. The wooden stake had a barbed end that would embed in the flesh and stop him from healing and it was made of ash, so he wouldn't be able to transport himself away without removing the stake. The barbed end would make removal extremely difficult and that was all the time he had. He fired three arrows in quick succession, each finding a different part. One was on its arm, other on its shoulder and the third on its thigh. He got up, dropping the crossbow, and picking up the stake, sprinted down the fire escape, putting on the white coat as he reached the hospital and sprinting up the steps, ignoring both the lift and the pain radiating from his calves and thighs. He was out of

shape. The vampire had got out the tiny stakes from its thigh and arm and it was bleeding profusely. It snarled at the sight of him, and lunged at him at super speed. Ray was a fraction slow with the stake. The creature's teeth took a large chunk off his arm before his stake found its heart. It was one of the old ones, so it disintegrated, even the blood gone. But his own blood wouldn't disappear so conveniently. Fortunately, he was in a hospital and everyone on the floor was asleep. He found a supply room, and dressed his wound. He would take care of it when he got home. He went to a broom closet and got out the cleaning supplies and cleaned the blood off the floor. After putting the supplies back, he dumped the blood-stained cotton along with the coat and stake in the garbage chute and made his way out, going back up the fire escape of the other building to collect his gun and crossbow from the roof and climbing down to the room he had been in. Ray paused, surprised, as he saw Alistair in his room. Perhaps he shouldn't have been. Alistair's face was inscrutable, but Ray knew that was only a facade. When had he learnt to read Alistair so well? “Did you track my phone?” Alistair nodded, looking at him. “Please tell me that all the blood that I smell is not yours.” Ray shrugged, “It's not. But some of it is.” He smiled at Alistair. “Take us home?” Alistair huffed out a laugh, and caught him round the middle and kissed him. When they broke the kiss, they were in their bedroom. Since when had he started thinking of this as their bedroom? He started undoing the bandages, hissing slightly at the pain. “He bit you.” Alistair said. Was that anger or worry? It sounded like both. “Almost tore my arm off,” Ray opened a cabinet. “Is there anything I can do?” “Nah, it's all under control.”

He took out the bottle of rose and wolfsbane water, and dabbed it over his upper arm. The wound closed, the skin knit together, and only a small scar remained. “Is this how it's going to be?” Alistair asked. “Is this how it’s with you every time?” “I'm a hunter,” Ray replied. “You know that. You know what our lives are like. This is,” He made a hand gesture. “This is pretty much the norm. Why do you even ask?” Alistair shook his head. “It's not the same when it's you.” “Alistair-” “I know,” Alistair murmured. “I'm not... I won't stop you, Ray, but you can’t ask me not to worry.” Ray kissed him, almost desperately, his hands unbuttoning Alistair's shirt. Alistair pulled off Ray’s t-shirt, shedding his own shirt. Ray pushed Alistair slightly away with one hand, while his other hand undid the clasp of the chain around his neck, on which hung the sharp-ended, wooden crucifix which he had donned for the evening. The chain slithered to the floor, and the wood clattered on it. Ray pulled Alistair to him again. “We don't want any accidents, do we?” he whispered, his voice husky as he kissed him again, and Alistair nearly crushed him against the wall and Ray's capacity to think was lost. “I didn't expect us to make it to the bed.” he said later. “I've more self-control than you.” Alistair grinned. “I should've known you'd claim credit.” Ray chuckled. “Ray,” Alistair's voice was quiet. “What are we doing?” “I know what I'm doing,” Ray said equally quietly, his eyes on Alistair's. “But I can't speak for you.” “What are you doing?”

“Being in love with you,” Ray said, still quietly, “As I've been since I was sixteen.” Alistair's hand moved over a tiny scar on Ray's neck. “I gave you this when I turned you.” Ray's breath caught at the expression on Alistair's face and he took the hand and kissed his palm. “I love you.” he said. There wasn't anything else he could say, though it seemed so inadequate to describe what he felt every time he looked at Alistair. Alistair smiled playfully. “So, will you make an honest man out of me?” Ray drew a sharp breath. “Are you proposing to me?” “I'm old fashioned.” But Ray could sense his nervousness despite his smile. Ray kissed him, grinning. “Yes!” He laughed. “Yes! Yes! Yes!” He would need to tell Mom. Oh heavens! She would probably kill him. He should have told her earlier, at least given her an inkling. As it was, it would be completely out of the blue. He would need to tell his siblings too. “What?” Alistair asked, amusement curling his lips. “I've no fucking idea how to tell my family.” “Can't help you there.” He smiled at him. “But I can hold your hand when you do.” Ray buried his face in Alistair's neck and kissed him. “I'm not going to think of it tonight.” “Good plan.” Alistair said. “How's Jon doing?” “The drug wore off. I think he's asleep now.”

“Happens,” Ray said. “Let's hope Magnus gets me the details of Todd tomorrow. We need to come up with a way to find and capture him.” Alistair kissed him.

Chapter Forty-One

Alistair stayed awake long after Ray had fallen asleep. It had shaken him, seeing Ray hurt and smelling of blood. It wasn't that he didn't know how dangerous being a vampire hunter was, nor that he doubted Ray's capabilities. It was just that there was a part of him that wouldn't listen to logic and reacted on a very primal level where Ray was concerned. He had to keep that part in check, and hope that the next time he wouldn't panic. How many times had he accompanied Ned on a hunt, and seen him hurt? And his father before that, and his before that? It was different with Ray. Everything was different with Ray. Ray was the most important thing in his life right now, and he wasn't certain he would be able to deal with losing him. You're going to anyway. He's human, ? It was true, and perhaps he would get used to it in time, but not right now. Losing Ray was one thing, losing him on a hunt unexpectedly was another. He was prepared to lose Ray eventually, some day after he got to watch him grow old. After sharing endless sunsets and sunrises, someday, he would be ready to let go, but not now. He opened the bond and sought Aiden, because he needed someone to talk to, and Jon had problems of his own. What? Aiden asked. I proposed and he said yes. You should be happy, not freaking out. He got hurt in a hunt today, and... I've never been more scared in my life... I can't lose him, Aiden! You're overreacting. They always get hurt during hunts. They're human, Alistair, and they're hunting something supernatural. They're bound to get hurt. It's like

children falling down while learning to walk. I bet he hasn't been out in the field in a while. Just give him time. Alistair sighed. Aiden was right of course. Thank you. You always know the right thing to say. Also, congratulations. Don't tell Daphne or anyone else. Ray wants to do it. My lips are sealed. How is the hunt going? Not good. Jon's here. He lost one of his fledgelings. Oh god! How is he? As well as can be expected. Turned out the Vampire isn't killing humans. It's killing fledglings with B positive blood. Jon’s fledgeling was one of its victims. I have a fledgeling with B Positive blood, but she isn't in Surgron. Think she'll be safe? I think she may be. Just warn her, to be on the safe side. Why is the council not doing anything? He killed his sire. Long story. He gave Aiden a glimpse into the memory of their conversation with Magnus. Your Ray is a good hunter. I don't think you need to worry about him. Can't help it. I get that. Still telling you that you've nothing to worry about. There was movement from Jon's room. I need to go. Alistair said. Looks like Jon's awake. Take care of him. I'd come if I could. In the middle of moving, and Jess is not fully acclimated here.

That's all right. I've got this. He hoped so anyway. Aiden was the only one Jon hadn't managed to completely alienate. Probably why Aiden offered to come. But he had his own things to deal with, and Jon was his brother, his responsibility. He got out of bed, and Ray asked drowsily, “Where are you going?” “Jon's awake. I have to check on him.” But Ray was already asleep, tired out from the day's exertions probably. He tiptoed to the door, and opened it carefully, stepping out and closing it equally cautiously. He went to Jon's room. “Jon?” He knocked softly. “Are you awake?” “Yes. What do you want?” Jon sounded listless. “May I come in?” he asked. “Sure.” Alistair opened the door and went inside, going to the bed and climbing in beside Jon and holding him. “You and Haspel are fucking.” Jon observed after a moment's silence. “I love him.” Alistair said. “What about him?” “He loves me.” Alistair said. “We're going to be married.” Jon stared at him, before shrugging. “Marrying a Haspel isn't the best idea.” “We love each other.” “And it's none of my business.” Jon muttered. “Just say it, Alistair. Don't keep it in because of what happened.”

“I'm sorry for your loss, Jon.” Alistair said softly. “But my marrying Ray is none of your fucking business. And it is not going to stop me from being there for you, either. Satisfied?” Jon chuckled. “You think this is about my insecurities? It isn't. I just… I don't want you to get hurt... You mourned Seiden for two centuries, if not more. Ray... He... He's not Seiden.” “I know exactly who he is.” Alistair kept his anger in check, but it wasn't easy. Why did Jon have to make everything so difficult? “I don't mean anything disparaging by that.” Jon said sighing. “Seiden was one of us and yet she died. Ray is human.” “Now you're playing with my insecurities,” Alistair said with a laugh, though it wasn't quite steady. “I don't want you to get hurt.” Jon said softly. “It's not like I don't how it was when he turned human... This... It's going to be worse when you do eventually lose him. You may think you're ready, but you never are.” “Speaking from experience?” He teased because there was nothing he could say. His words hit too close to home. Jon scoffed. “What would I know about being in love?” “I don't know. You do seem to understand loss.” Jon was silent and Alistair cursed himself for his own stupidity. “I'm sorry. That was cruel and insensitive.” “Don't worry about it.” Jon said after a moment, but his voice sounded brittle. “Aiden said he would have come if he could.” “I'm sure,” Jon said drily. “How goes his wooing?” “Not too good; he seems ready to give up.” “Till he moves on, he wouldn't have given up.” “I guess.”

“Alistair?” “Yes?” “Thank you for being here.” “I'll always be here.” He promised.

Chapter Forty-Two

When he woke, Alistair was with him, warm and comfortable. “Good morning,” he mumbled without opening his eyes. “When did you get back?” “Hm?” “You said you were going to check in on Jon.” Ray cracked open an eye. He was still drowsy. The hunt had been more draining than he had realised. Besides, the wounds might have been healed, but there was no reversing the effects of blood loss. “Just before dawn. I told him , and Aiden too.” Ray grinned. “You're freaking out.” It should not have made him so gleeful, but it did. That it wasn't just him, that the centuries old immortal vampire was going through the same thing made it seem so normal somehow. “You seem surprisingly happy about it.” Alistair said, smiling, “And I'm not freaking out. I'm just... I've never done this before.” That made Ray open both his eyes wide, his sleepiness disappearing in an instant. “Never? Not once in what? 870 years?” Alistair shook his head, looking as if he was surprised at his own words, as if it was sinking in just now that he was doing something he had never done before, that there were things he had never done. “No. Not as a human, not as a vampire.” “Wow!” Ray murmured. “That's... I always assumed I can't be the first,”

“The first what?” “The first human you've been in love with.” Ray clarified. That had always seemed a given. How could Alistair have lived all these centuries without falling in love at least a few times? “Or the first you've asked to marry you.” “You're both.” Alistair said. “There was someone once, but she was not human.” “What happened?” Ray asked softly, his eyes lingering on Alistair's face. A shadow of pain crossed his face. “She died.” he said. “It was back on earth. In the days before the treaty. We thought we were invincible, that we could do anything, that humans were dirt beneath our feet... The hunters were just beginning their existence and we didn't think they were a threat.” He gave Ray a small smile, swiftly gone. “They were dark times, Ray, and we were different. Seiden was killed, as were a lot of us. Looking back, we probably deserved it for all that we did, but... it didn't seem so at the time.” “You went for revenge.” Ray guessed. Alistair nodded, looking up at the ceiling. “It didn't go well for us, to be frank. It was... For the first time, we realised humans weren't as weak as we'd thought them to be, nor we as omnipotent as we'd assumed ourselves to be.” “I'm sorry about Seiden.” Ray said softly, and Alistair smiled at him. “It took me a long time to get over her, I won't lie. At the time it didn't seem I could ever love again. But that was centuries ago.” “But you didn't fall in love again.” Ray was troubled, though he couldn't understand why. Why would it matter Alistair had no real loves between Seiden and him? Wasn't it strange to wish he had fallen in love at least a few times since Seiden and before him? “No,” Alistair said. “Not till you. Ray, I love you. I didn't ask you to marry me out of an impulse. I don't deny I'm nervous, but I have no doubts or second thoughts.” A knot of tension in his chest loosened, and till that moment Ray hadn't even known it was there. “Good,” he leaned over to brush his lips lightly over

Alistair's. “Because I'm definitely holding you to that proposal.” Alistair laughed and pulled him in for a proper kiss, morning breath and all. “So, what are your plans today?” “Call Mom and the rest of the family, and Jerry. Get your books unpacked. Call Magnus and ask if they had reached a decision. But I’ve not decided on the order of doing those things.” “I'll make coffee and breakfast, and we can finish the books. Then we call your family, Jerry and finally Magnus. The council doesn't work very fast.” “Fair enough,” he said. Jon was absent during breakfast. Alistair said he asked to be left alone for a while. “It sort of comes in phases,” he said, as he tipped eggs on to Ray's plate. “Sometimes we just want to be alone, and at other times, we can't have enough people around us. It's perfectly natural.” Tackling Alistair's box of books was more fun than Ray thought it'd be. He had a lot of books Ray hadn't read, and a lot that Ray loved. He hadn't had anyone to discuss books with since he left home and he loved that Alistair and he agreed on books as fiercely as they disagreed. “Wetwork.” he said, coming to the last of the pile. “You've the whole series?” “Why do you sound surprised?” Alistair asked, taking the books from him one by one and putting them in the shelf. “All first editions too.” Ray said, taking one from the shelf again, his hand moving lovingly over the spine. “It had a rather unique take on vampires.” Alistair said. Ray agreed. “You know what I loved most about it?” he asked. “That it was so plausible. I mean, we are still only beginning to explore beyond our galaxy. What if there's a planet out there with vampires who are like that?” Alistair had an arrested expression on his face as he said. “I never thought of it that way. It is scary in a way.”

“Let's hope we never run into them.” Ray handed the book to Alistair who put it with the rest. Nothing else to it now. He needed to call Mom and face the music. He hoped she wouldn't mind since it was Alistair, but she would still be upset he had kept it from her. “Time to call Mom,” he said. “I think I want do this alone.” Alistair rose, squeezed his shoulder and said, “I'll go see if Jon's ready for company.” Ray was grateful to be left alone. He picked up the phone, took a few deep breaths and dialled the familiar number.

Chapter Forty-Three

Jon was lying on his back, looking at the ceiling. Alistair lay down next to him, not saying anything. If his brother wanted to talk, he would. If he wanted him to leave, he would say that. “Is your boyfriend close to finding the bastard who killed Hamilton?” Jon asked, eyes still on the ceiling. Alistair hesitated. What could he say? He didn't want to upset Jon, but he didn't want to lie or comfort him with platitudes. “I think so,” he said finally. If Magnus came through, they would find Todd. “Good,” Jon said, in the same colourless tone. “Do you know why Hamilton chose to be a vampire?” “Tell me.” Alistair said. “He was sick. A rare congenital disease. They didn't diagnose till it was too late. He didn't tell Adam. They were talking of starting a family. Of adopting a child. And then he was diagnosed. He prayed. Except, there is no god and I happened to be around.” “I'm sorry.” Alistair said. It wasn't enough. Losing a fledgling took something from a vampire. He hadn't exaggerated when he equated it to ripping out the still beating heart from his chest. He could only imagine the pain Jon was in. “I wasn't kind to him.” Jon said abruptly. “I mocked him for still believing in god, for thinking I was some miracle, for wanting to have a normal life, for loving his husband, for everything he was, and yet, he was so grateful. So damn fucking grateful!” Jon's voice rose and he let out a scream, a sound an animal would make when it was in pain, and not just any pain, the pain from a mortal wound. “I didn't even like him,” Jon whispered. “Then why does it hurt so much? I didn't even like him!”

Alistair took Jon's hand in his. “I'm sorry.” he said. In time, the pain would , but they would never regain what they had lost. It was as if they put something of themselves into every fledgling, and they lost that with the fledgling. If they were to lose too many, would they ultimately lose themselves? Or was this pain something they felt only when the bond was strong? “I felt it.” Jon whispered. “The pain. What he felt. His death.” It was unimaginable. Even in the photos, it had looked as if it would be agonising. To experience that... “I rushed to his side as soon as I was able, but...” He heaved a breath. “It was debilitating... What he felt... I couldn't even turn it off...” “O god, Jon.” Alistair whispered. The guilt would be wrenching. He could understand it. The bond was also meant as protection. But when what came through it debilitated the sire as well... It didn't happen in reverse. The sires kept the bonds masked so the fledgelings rarely felt what the sire did. “I'm sorry,” he said again, feeling like a puppet that could only utter those three words. He might well be one for all the use he was to his brother. The doorbell rang. Alistair recognised the presence. No bond was required for that. “It's Magnus,” he said. “Let's go see what it's about.” Jon said. “Perhaps he has some information about the killer.” Alistair couldn't have stopped Jon even had he wanted to, and he didn't want to. He understood Jon's need to know, and if it was what his brother needed to have closure, why not? They reached the door just as Ray opened it and stepped outside, and they followed him. Magnus stood just outside the porch; his eyes flickered to them and shifted back to Ray. He had an envelope in his hands. “This is all we could find on Melton Todd.” he said. “It has his personal details including his address, but he's not there. None of his friends or relatives has seen him since he turned, and he has not been active online either.” Ray folded his arms across his chest. “What about my conditions?”

Magnus' eyes flickered to Jon before returning to Ray. “The council accepts your conditions.” Alistair stared in surprise. Magnus was telling the truth. That much he could tell. It was fast, even for the council. But what about Jon and the others like him? Ray accepted the envelope and took out the photograph and the couple of pages of information even as Jon asked, “What conditions? What are you talking about?” “Mr. Haspel has put forth the condition that Mr. Todd be not punished, but instead helped.” Magnus said, looking unhappy. “After some debate, the council-” “What do you mean not punished?” He made to move towards Ray, but Alistair stopped him, holding him. Jon might be in pain, but that didn't mean he got to hurt Ray. No one got to hurt Ray. “Let me go, Alistair!” “Here,” Ray held out the papers in his hands to Jon. “Go and find him if you can.” Jon glared at Ray. Magnus cleared his throat. “However, the council has a condition too. If Mr. Todd kills again, all bets are off. If you're not prepared to find him, we'll some other hunter who's not as”—He paused—“rigid in their requirements.” Ray snorted. “Then why do you agree to him?” Jon asked. “You can hand it over to someone else already!” “Because he's the best.” Magnus spoke grudgingly. “He put together things in half the time it would have taken anyone else.” Alistair felt a warmth in his chest as if he was the one being praised and not Ray. He kept his arms around Jon and his eyes were on Ray, and even though Ray had his back to him, he could imagine Ray's expression. “Also,” Magnus continued, “His experience as a vampire gives him a unique insight that most other hunters lack. It is that insight that caused the council to favourably consider his conditions. Quite frankly, if we give this to another hunter, there could be a lot more deaths before they're finished. Mr. Haspel is our best bet if we're to restrict further deaths.”

“And yet, you find the need to give me a deadline.” Ray spoke, anger barely suppressed. “ in the council have also lost their fledgelings.” Magnus said. “This was the best compromise we could come up with.” “If you'd lost a fledgeling, you'd also know what it feels like.” Jon said, angry still. “I did lose one.” Magnus said, the lines on his face appearing deeper. “Burt was my fledgeling.” “It's not the same when they're older!” Jon said through gritted teeth. “I'm sorry for your loss, Magnus.” Ray said at the same time. Magnus nodded at them. “I need to leave. Hope you don't disappoint our faith in you, Mr. Haspel.” “What the hell?” Jon struggled to free himself. “Why did you ask for such a condition, Haspel?” “Jon!” Alistair shook him. “That's Ray's business.” “It's all right, Alistair.” Ray said. “But I think we should have this discussion indoors, if you don't mind.” Jon struggled himself free, growling, “I'm not going to hurt your boyfriend.” before stalking in. Alistair and Ray followed. “So?” Jon glared at Ray. “Firstly,” Ray said, closing the door. “I don't owe you an explanation. The only reason I'm deigning to give you one is because of what you're going through right now, and I'm sorry for that.” “And yet, you won't even kill the bastard who killed my fledge or let the council kill him!” Alistair sat down on the couch, sighing.

“He's feral!” Ray said. “It's not his fault. Why can't you even understand that?” “HE'S FERAL BECAUSE HE KILLED HIS SIRE!” Jon bellowed. “HE'S FERAL BECAUSE HIS SIRE REJECTED HIM!” Ray yelled back, not giving an inch. “Do you know when he was turned? Six months ago. He tried on his own, he did. I know because while you've been sitting here on your ass, I've been digging into his sire and into what information I can about him. This,”—He waved the sheaf of papers—”is information I already have except the photograph because for some reason, he was shy of putting his picture on the net.” Alistair stared at him. “When did you do all that?” Ray shrugged. “I had some time to kill yesterday. It was almost certain the vampire wouldn't be turning up till after sunset, so I took advantage of the time to talk to some of Burt's friends and associates. He's been neglecting Todd from Day One. The juniper in his house? To keep Todd out. I had it first hand from people to whom Burt itted these things. That is six months without his Sire's presence and being neglected by him. Do you blame him for being feral?” Jon sat down next to Alistair, looking a bit stricken. “Why Hamilton, though? Answer me that?” “Ray has a theory that vampires are repelled by their own blood type.” Alistair said. “My aversion to O neg,” Jon muttered. “But…” “It's a theory.” Ray said. “Most of you can control that aversion, but Burt told his friends that being with his fledge was making him physically ill. I'm assuming he couldn't control it.” “They had the same blood type, and he was feral, so he couldn't control it either… whenever he caught wind of it, he had to kill, to get rid of the presence.” Alistair said. Ray nodded. “He's also a victim here. That is why I want him to have a chance.” Jon shook his head. “He killed seven people. You can't just be a sanctimonious

asshole and say he deserves a chance!” “Your council seems to disagree with you.” Ray said. Alistair's phone rang before he could intervene in what was going to deteriorate into a mudslinging match. Both Ray and Jon glared at him. “It's Aiden.” Alistair said, which seemed to calm both of them down. “Aiden?” “I'm in Miriwok,” Aiden said. “But I'm lost. Can you come and get me?” “Aiden's in Miriwok.” Alistair said. “He said he lost his way.” “He can't find his sire?” Jon snorted. “Do you keep that bond closed these days?” “Go and get him.” Ray said. “Take your time. I think Jon and I need to talk.” “Don't kill my brother.” he said, kissing Ray, and wagged a finger at Jon. “Don't you dare lay a finger on him.” “He's a Haspel.” Jon said. “He'll eat me for breakfast if he has a mind to, and if there were no treaty in place.” It wasn’t true, as both Ray and Alistair knew. Jon was older than even Alistair and far more powerful. Alistair shook his head as he left. They would work it out. They had to. He could always hope.

Chapter Forty-Four

“S o?” Ray asked, “What exactly is your problem?” Jon snorted. “I don't have a problem with you, Haspel. It's your self-righteous bullshit that I have a problem with.” Ray rolled his eyes. “I'm not.” he said. “I'm the last person to claim infallibility. I think he deserves a chance. That's my opinion. I'm perfectly amenable if you ask someone else to do it. I'm not going to go out of my way to find him or warn him which is what the kind of person you accuse me of being would have done. I cannot do this job against my beliefs. That's all there's to it.” “You heard Magnus.” Jon said. “You're our best chance, if more people are not to be killed, so you can sit there and talk about you not having any issues with us asking someone else when it could cost lives. You've put a gun to our head and you know it!” “The council lied to me from the start.” Ray said, striving to keep his tone neutral. “They kept information from me that they shouldn't have. If they had been upfront from the beginning, perhaps we could have avoided at least one or two deaths. So, don't sit there and preach to me about putting guns to heads.” “You're a feisty piece of shit. Maybe that's why Alistair is besotted with you.” Ray chuckled. “Back to name calling, are we?” “You think you're something special, Haspel? You're not! Alistair is with you because you forced him into turning you!” “I don't think you really understand the mechanics of love, Jon.” Ray said, unable to keep the sneer from his voice or face. “I understand more than you. I know my brother. I've seen him in love, and she was his equal, not a snivelling, whining, sanctimonious human!”

“Seiden.” Ray said, speaking calmly and using every ounce of his training to keep his heart rate and breathing steady. “I know. So what? Am I supposed to feel threatened by someone who died centuries ago?” “You think because he told you about her, you know everything?” Jon sneered. “It could well have been your dead brother in your place, do you know that?” Ray's heart stuttered for a moment before he called on his training and steadied it. “Let's leave Shane out of this.” “Why? Because it doesn't suit you? Did Alistair tell you he was still alive when he and your father found him? Did he tell you how he begged him to turn him? There wasn't enough time, or it would be him standing here. You're here because of a chance! Do you think Alistair turned you for you? He turned you out of guilt! He turned you because your father was his best friend and heaven forbid he let another of his precious Haspel children die!” Ray stared at him, and was surprised at how calm he sounded as he said. “You don't know anything about me or Alistair if that's what you think. Besides, what has that got to do with anything?” “He nearly died when you turned human.” Jon spat. “You forced him to turn you against his will, and then decided you've had enough and went back. You already used him once. You think I'm going to stand by and watch while you do it again?” Ray crossed his arms across his chest, recognising it for the defensive gesture it was, but still striving to appear insouciant. “So, now this is a shovel talk, and you're concerned for Alistair.” “You know nothing about my concern for Alistair!” Jon snapped. “Who the fuck are you to belittle my feelings for my brother?” “The man your brother's going to marry.” Ray snapped back. “So, don't tell me about my fucking rights when it comes to Alistair!” The doorbell rang and they were still glaring at each other, and it struck Ray how comical it would seem if anyone were to come inside. He gave a snort of laughter and went to the porch outside which Alistair and Aiden were standing with a woman in her mid-twenties who looked anxious.

“This is Genevieve.” Aiden said. “A friend.” “Come inside, both of you.” Ray said, and heard Jon's snort of derision from inside. “Go fuck yourself, Jon!” he shouted. “Fuck you!” Jon yelled back. “That's your brother's job!” Ray retorted. “And he's happy to do it.” Alistair murmured, kissing Ray. “I guess I should be grateful you're both still alive.” “Jon is being Jon, I see.” Aiden said as he led Genevieve inside. “Can't believe I agreed to being his brother-in-law.” Ray muttered as he waved them to a couch. “Do you need anything to drink? There's some artificial blood.” “I'll have some.” Genevieve spoke, her voice soft and subdued. “Yea, I'll have a glass too.” Aiden said. “I'll come with you,” Alistair said. “You want any, Jon?” Jon gave a curt nod. Everyone was still silent when they returned, and Alistair handed a glass to Jon while Ray offered the glasses of blood he was carrying to Aiden and Genevieve. “So, what's going on?” Ray asked as he sat down. “Well, Daphne offered to take care of Jess for a few days.” Aiden said. “And Jess gets along with her. Eve's still in Vrelsk and I thought if I were out of the way, they could get to know each other better. Also, I wanted to see how Jon was doing, but I see I shouldn't have bothered,” This with an amused glance at Jon who scowled at him. “Fuck off, Aiden, I don't need your fake concern.” “It's not fake, Jon,” Aiden said. “It's never been, but you'll never believe that.” He turned to Ray. “Anyway, Genevieve is my fledgeling. She's the one I told you

about,” nodding to Alistair. “The one with the B Positive blood.” It was palpable the change in the atmosphere in the room. Alistair frowned and even Jon looked surprised. “I thought she was not in Surgron?” Alistair said. “She wasn't, and I called her to tell her to stay away, when she, well she wanted to talk to Ray. She was very insistent.” “All right,” Ray said. “This vampire,” she said. “He attacks only fledgelings with B positive blood?” “I would assume he would attack any vampire with B positive blood,” Ray said. “But older ones would be able to defend themselves. I'm assuming Burt was too overcome with the reaction to Todd's presence to fight.” “But how does he know where they are? He has to find them somewhere? Smell them somewhere?” “He has moved from Criston to Bredol to Miriwok, so I would think so. I mean humans with B positive blood are very common, vampires should also be relatively more common, except old ones know how to mask the scent of their blood if they want to.” Ray said. “So, what if he smells me? He'll come after me, right?” “You're offering to be bait,” Ray said even as Aiden gasped and jumped up. Jon said, “Fuck no!” She nodded, “I think… I feel I should do this. I'm nobody, you know? I was nobody as a human and I thought becoming a vampire would… it would change things.” “You thought you'd be in control, that you could get people to pay attention to you.” Ray said. She nodded. “It didn't happen, obviously, because, it doesn't really change who

you're inside, except now I've time to figure out my shit, but when Aiden told me about this… this is my chance, you know? To be somebody, to do something?” “While I appreciate the gesture,” Ray said. “I have to refuse. It's too risky for one, and for another, all fledgelings below hundred years of age are kind of minors in vampire society? You need your sire's consent for something like this.” “I’m eighty-nine.” she said. “And she's not getting it!” Aiden exclaimed at the same time. “Hell no! No! No! No!” The Genevieve was eighty-nine would explain why Aiden had no idea what she came here for. Most fledgelings learned to mask their own bonds by fifty. Sires could still use the bond to break through, but most didn’t. From what Ray had seen of him, Aiden certainly wouldn’t. “Aiden,” she started, and he shook his head. “This is not negotiable!” His face was hard. “If I have to manipulate the bond to make you obey me, I will, but you're not doing this, Genevieve.” “She isn't, but this is our chance.” Ray said. “What do you mean?” “Bait,” Ray said. It was so simple. Why hadn't we thought of that? “We need an older vampire with B positive blood.” “Won't they be overcome with the same aversion Burt was?” Alistair asked. “Not necessarily,” Ray said. “Older ones can control their aversion. Of course, I've no idea what it feels like.” “Imagine a confined space full of shit,” Aiden said. “That's more or less what it feels like, the stench… you feel it everywhere, in every pore… there's no escaping it. What?” as everyone was staring at him, “I've once met a vampire with the same blood type. Believe me, we both felt the same.” The snort from Jon broke the tension somewhat and Ray pushed to the back of

his mind what Jon had said about Shane. This was more important. This was a good plan, to lure Todd out and to capture him. “All right,” Ray said. “We should assume that even an older one can be overcome while Todd being feral won't feel the effects as badly, so I'll stay with whoever is our bait, out of sight.” “I'm coming with you,” Alistair said. “You've never dealt with a feral vampire, Ray. Believe me, you can't take him alone.” “Alistair and I'll stay in the room, and once he's there, we'll take him out.” Ray said, not fighting. “That could actually work.” Jon said. “See, it's a good plan,” Genevieve said. “So, why can't I be the bait? There's virtually no risk!” “There's a lot of risk,” Ray said. “Plans fail because there are always a lot of variables. I'm sorry, Genevieve, exposing you to that is not an option.” “But you're talking of exposing someone else.” she argued. “Someone who has experience and powers far in advance of you,” Jon said. “Who understands the risk and is not in this for personal glory, so shut up.” Ray stared at Jon, and so did Alistair. “Jon,” Aiden said. “Shut up, Aiden.” Jon said. “You've no idea what I'm going through right now. I wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy. If your fledge wants to commit suicide, that's her lookout, but I won't have you suffering because of her hero complex!” He stormed off and they stared after him, mouths agape. It was Genevieve who broke the silence. “Is he always-” “A jerk?” Ray asked. “Pretty much all the time.” “That was actually nice for Jon.” Aiden said, a small smile on his lips. “I'm not making excuses, but… he's in an emotionally fragile state right now,”

Alistair said. “Just make some allowances, will you?” “Oh,” Genevieve said. “What happened?” “His fledgeling was killed,” Ray said, sighing. Perhaps they should make allowances for Jon. “Well, how do we find a vampire with B positive blood?” Aiden asked. “The council,” Ray said. “I’ll send a message to Magnus. He should get back to us. We need to trap him before he leaves Miriwok. I'm not planning to chase him all over the country.”

Chapter Forty-Five

Something was not quite right with Ray. It was evident, though he was doing a good enough job of hiding it. Alistair wanted to ask him about it, but also didn't want to distract him. “So, we need a vampire with a place of his own, or at least a lease in his name.” Ray was talking to Magnus on the phone. “Yes, Magnus, he should have B positive blood. Also, preferably, he should have a house near the suburbs. That's the other pattern in his attack. He's going from the centre of the town to one end and back to the centre and back again to the other end, and then skip town.” A pause, “No, you see, Bahter was too small a town, so it was one end to another and out. Miriwok is larger than Criston, so I'm assuming he'll stick around. Yes, the suburbs near Bahter, within four blocks of Gyren Memorial. That's how he rolls.” Another pause, while Alistair tried not to listen to the other end. “No, he won't go near the sea, and if we miss him now, there are potentially any number of places he could strike next. Also, if any other fledgelings or vampires with B positive are in the city, get them to a safe location immediately and do whatever you need to cover the scent. He shouldn't smell anyone except our bait.” “You love him a lot,” Genevieve said, startling him. “I do,” he told her, smiling. Young she might be, but she was not foolish, despite her wish to be feral vampire bait. “Aiden's done something so I can't leave the house,” she said moodily. “You don't mind me talking to you, do you?” “No, not at all,” he said. “Where's Aiden? I haven't seen him all morning.” “Your brother went for a walk and Aiden went with him, saying something about keeping an eye on him. I think he thinks Jon will run off looking for the feral vampire himself if someone's not there.” It was likely. It was something Alistair himself would have done in his shoes. He looked at the paper she was drumming absently against her knee. It was the

photograph of Todd that Magnus had brought. He didn't have to look at it. He had already memorised Todd’s face. There was nothing remarkable about him. He was a tall young man, unnaturally thin with a mop of brown hair and large glasses. There was an impish quality about him and mischief in his smile. And now, that young man was out there, feral, unable to control himself and slipping into insanity and killing people. He felt a tightening in his chest and something seemed to be lodged in his throat. He coughed to dislodge it and Ray came and sat next to him, snuggling close and shutting his eyes. “Magnus said he will arrange everything, and it had better work because the council will have his head if it doesn't. I tuned out when he started talking about treaty violations.” “The treaty was a long time ago, wasn't it?” Genevieve asked. “What prompted it, do you know?” The question was addressed to Ray and he smiled, opening his eyes for a moment and closing them again. “My knowledge is as sketchy as yours. History lessons are all I had. But Alistair here should be knowing all the details,” He smiled at Alistair and though the smile was warm, there was still something in his eyes. “It was because the earth leaders decided that earth could no longer humanity as it was. We had to move. And we all felt, both vampires and hunters alike, that we should start with a clean slate in a new place, and hence we hammered out the treaty.” he said. He wasn't in the mood to go into details. It was worrying, this shadow that lay over Ray's smiles, this too much nervous energy he was having. “That's all?” Genevieve was asking. “I was expecting something more exciting.” “That's all, I'm afraid,” he smiled at her. Ray's phone beeped. “It's Magnus,” he said. “He has sent us an address. The house of a Vadian Soleh.” “I know him,” Alistair said. “We don't get along very well. Jon's fault, really, but Vadian felt I was in on it.”

“In on what?” “A prank Jon played on him, not worth talking about.” Sometimes the extent of his brother's childishness and spite surprised Alistair. “Well, no matter. He's our bait and we're going to have to live in his house till we catch Todd. So, pack your things?” Alistair wanted to groan. If it wasn't for the danger Ray was going to be in, he would have backed out. Vadian was going to be a nightmare. But there was nothing to be done now. “Excuse us,” he said to Genevieve as he followed Ray into their bedroom. It was strange just how quickly he had begun to think of the room as theirs. “I just hope all this will end soon.” he said. “So do I.” Ray said. “What if he's not in the area?” Alistair asked. “This is guesswork at the most.” Ray shook his head, and put his finger to his lips, and Alistair moved closer. He took Ray into his arms because it was impossible not to with Ray so close. Ray kissed him, hunger and desperation and a lot of unnamed things in that kiss and Alistair kissed him back with equal fervour, till Ray pulled back slightly and whispered, “Gyren Memorial has been losing bags of artificial blood for a week now. Not much, one bag a day.” Before he could reply, Ray's mouth was on his, tongue seeking entry and Alistair kissed him back, his brain whirring with questions. When they broke the kiss, he whispered, “You think Todd is stealing that blood?” They were still so close, their bodies pressed together and there was almost no gap between their lips. “I think he has to be feeding somehow and he hasn't killed any humans. I hacked into their security feed earlier today and it is Todd. They had filed a police complaint, but Surrey has made them forget.” “He didn't know who it was.” Ray kissed him again. “So, we can get him at the hospital,” Alistair said.

“That's a last resort. Would you rather try and corner him in a human hospital? How many people's memories can you wipe? It only takes one.” It made so much sense. Before Alistair could ask anything more, Ray was kissing him again, and this time, Alistair had no interest in asking anything more. “So, when do we leave?” Alistair asked later, as they lay, limbs tangled with each other's. He felt as if nothing could spoil this day for him. “Once Jon and Aiden get back.” Ray said. “We can't leave Genevieve alone in the house.” “I guess not.” Alistair agreed. “I must warn you that Vadian is likely to be a nightmare.” “It's only for a few days at the most.” Ray said. “We just have to make sure Vadian goes to the hospital at least four times a day so that Todd will come after him.” “It's going to be risky.” Alistair said. “It's going to be all right.” Ray said, and when Ray looked like that, Alistair really couldn't argue.

Chapter Forty-Six

Vadian turned out to be a tall vampire with drooping shoulders and a melancholy air. He was happy to help, he told Ray, but wished Alistair hadn't come with him. “He and his brother peed on my stock of blood.” he said. “As if it was a joke.” “That was Jon, not me.” Alistair said, and Ray could feel his aggravation. Getting Vadian to agree to visit the hospital was no chore, as he agreed readily. “I want that creature caught.” he told them, as the three of them ambled to the hospital, the sedate pace set by Vadian to accommodate Ray. It was as if he couldn't believe Ray or any human, hunter or not, could walk at more than a snail's pace. “Magnus speaks highly of you.” He informed Ray. “Which was why I agreed to this at all. Of course, with Alistair around, I know my life will be safe. He may be a prankster, but he is good in a fight.” “He is,” Ray agreed though he had no idea. It stood to reason, however. Vadian made some disparaging comments about the hospital's appearance. “I hate all this modern architecture,” he said. “There's something quintessentially ugly about them.” “They're built for a purpose,” Ray said. “They're utilitarian.” “Ugly,” Vadian said, quite unperturbed. “Utilitarian can be beautiful too. But it's like they've gone out of their way to create ugly buildings.” Where was he the last few centuries? Ray squashed the thought and nodded along. As annoying as he was, Vadian also proved quite informative, especially about history and regaled him with a story of Gyren memorial as they returned. “Gyren was a vampire, you know.” he said. “What?” Ray was surprised. “I thought he was a doctor who died saving patients from a fire.”

“He was a doctor and he did save people from the fire, but he didn't die. Vampires don't die in fires, you know. He escaped, changed his name and left the country. Came back a decade later, with a different haircut, clean shaven and nobody even recognised him.” Vadian chuckled, and Ray smiled, but he was feeling a prickling sensation in the back of his neck, as if someone was watching them. He was thankful for the slow pace, because even though he couldn't turn around, he could keep his attention focussed all around, his eyes scanning every person on the street quickly. He scratched his forearm, using the movement to undo the clasp of his watch. It fell down and he bent down to pick it up, sending a swift glance behind as he straightened. There was a shock of brown hair that disappeared too quickly. He apologised to Vadian and put on the watch again, paying no attention to Vadian's lecture. Things were progressing faster than he had anticipated. In a way, it was lucky. But he was not sure if he was ready. What if Todd attacked now? Alistair moved closer to him. One good thing about Vadian's monologue was he didn't pay attention to what was happening around. “What is it?” Alistair asked. “You appear tense.” “Todd is here,” Ray told him. “Somewhere behind us.” “We need to get Vadian home,” Alistair muttered, looking around at the people all around. “If Todd attacks him now...” “I've an idea,” Ray muttered, as he clutched his stomach and doubled over, retching. “My dear boy,” Vadian asked, all concern. “Are you all right.” “Of course, he's not,” Alistair said. “He's sick, I think. Must be the sun. It isn't good for him to spend a lot of time outside.” “Oh, then we need to get him home,” Vadian said. “What do we do?” “Help me get him to that alley, and we can speed away with him before anyone notices.” “Good idea.”

Vadian took Ray by an arm, ing him, while Alistair took his other arm and guided him into the alley. Ray kept moaning as if in pain. “Do we need to take him to the hospital?” Vadian asked, looking worried and Ray felt a momentary pang of guilt. But this was to save Vadian's life as well. “No, he'll be fine once he's indoors.” Alistair said. “I'll bring him, you go on ahead, and we'll be right behind.” Vadian sped away, and Alistair held Ray close and sped after him. Ray kept his eyes closed as nausea churned his gut. Travelling at speeds for this much distances obviously didn't agree with him. At this rate he was really going to be sick. Fortunately, it didn't last long. He rushed to the bathroom and heaved into the toilet bowl as soon as they reached. “How are you?” Vadian was hovering near him. “I'm all right now.” Ray straightened, wiping his lips and accepting the glass of water Alistair brought. “Thank you,” he said with real gratitude. “I forgot the speed can make you sick too.” Alistair said apologetically. “It's okay,” Ray smiled at him. Jon's words were still in his mind, but he pushed them to the back, focussing on the task at hand. “Do you like books?” Vadian asked. “I have quite a large collection of fantasy books. I love them, you know.” “I'd love to see them.” Ray said. Fantasy had always been his favourite, after vampires. Vadian beckoned them to a room. “This,” he said with obvious pride, “is my library.” It was a large room, with floor to ceiling shelves built into the walls and books filled every shelf. The only bookless space was a large French window opening to the garden. “Wow!” Ray said as he took a familiar title from the shelf.

“That's-” Vadian started, when Ray said, nostalgia filling him. “Fire's Song. I know. This used to be Shane's favourite.” He touched the cover fondly, thinking of the days when he and his twin would lie in their secret place in the hills, and read books. Alistair was standing near him, and Ray could feel the question burning his soul about to burst from his lips, but instead he gave him a smile and turned to Vadian, “Do you have the sequels as well?” “What kind of collector would I be if I didn't?” Vadian asked as Ray blinked to clear his eyes. The next moment, someone came crashing in through the window and dived at Vadian. Ray interposed his body between the attacker and Vadian even as Alistair lunged for the creature. Todd knocked Alistair down and made for Vadian again. Ray grabbed his gun and fired two shots, thankful he carried it even indoors. The wooden bullets laced with rose should at least have slowed him down, but it didn't. Alistair leapt at his legs, tackling him to the ground, and he kicked at him. “Don't kill him!” Ray shouted as he took out the crossbow whose arrows were dipped in a solution which contained the same sleeping drug that he had given Jon. The crossbow was knocked aside and Todd caught him by the neck, lifted him into the air, squeezing so hard Ray could see stars. He tried to fight, but the grip was too strong. I wanted to save you! There was no trace of humanity in the eyes that stared at him. They were full of pain and madness. I never got to ask Alistair about Shane. His world went black.

Chapter Forty-Seven

Alistair had no clear recollection of what happened after he had seen Ray in Todd's grip, struggling as his life was slowly but surely squeezed out of him. It was as if some primal instinct had taken hold of him. He grabbed the crossbow and fired five arrows in rapid succession into Todd's back. Todd dropped Ray and turned to him, but stopped as if he was groggy. Vadian was crouched on the floor, trying not to throw up. Alistair grabbed him by the hand, caught Ray around the waist and sped them both into the living room where Ray's weapons were. “Stay here,” he said as he took Ray's stake. The ash wood was heavy in his arms and he would have dropped it in any other situation, but he had to protect Ray. There was a crash from the other room and he stepped into it to find Todd ed out on the floor, having knocked over Vadian's reading table and lamp. He dropped the stake, and sank on to his haunches. “Call Magnus, Vadian.” he said, turning his head. “Tell him we have Todd.” Vadian nodded, his eyes fearful as he took his phone and dialled the number. He still looked green. Alistair rose and closed the door to the library and went back to the living room, and knelt by Ray, taking him in his arms, feeling far too relieved by the heartbeat and the warmth. “Oh Ray.” he whispered, burying his face in his hair and sighing. “You're okay.” Ray coughed, and whispered, “Alistair?” “I'm here.” Ray chuckled, his voice raspy. “Did I turn into a damsel in distress?” Alistair laughed, more relieved than he could say. “No, it wasn't like that.” “Thank you.” Ray murmured as he sat up, still in Alistair's arms.

He coughed as he rose, and started rummaging in his supplies, finally taking out a bottle. He took a syringe and filled it with the clear liquid. “Is that-” Alistair stared at the thing, both revolted and fascinated. “The cure my father developed for me.” Ray said. “The final dose.” “Do you know how to make it?” “I have his notes.” Ray said. “Which he left to me for some reason.” Ray was pleased with it. Alistair could tell. “Can you get that creature out of my house?” Vadian asked, talking with some difficulty. “It makes me ill.” “Give us a few minutes.” Ray said. “Go outside and wait, Vadian. It'll be better the farther you're from him.” Alistair accompanied Ray to the room where Ray knelt down by Todd and plunged the needle straight into his chest. “That's got to hurt.” Alistair said, wincing. “It's nothing to what comes after,” Ray said. “Help me with him. We need to put him somewhere he won't hurt himself.” “Vadian isn't going to like this.” Alistair picked up Todd, who weighed hardly anything at all. He was still as thin as he was in his picture, and without his glasses, he could even be called good looking. Ray led the way as he took him to the guest bedroom which they had been given the previous day. He laid him gently on the bed while Ray started cutting a sheet into strips. “We have to tie his arms and legs, but not too tightly, just enough so he won't hurt himself.” Todd was stirring and Alistair used his speed to tie him up. Todd opened his eyes and let out a scream of such terror and pain, it made Alistair's blood run cold. He started thrashing about, screaming all the while.

“Fortunately, it doesn't last long.” Ray said. “Magnus is here.” Alistair said. Magnus wasn't pleased. “You were supposed to hand him over to the council,” he said. Ray shrugged. “His sanity was already in shreds; by the time you reached a decision, it would have been too late for him.” Magnus huffed but kept quiet as Todd's motions became more violent and he attempted to bite himself and his screams faded into whimpers, and he finally became still. “He's human again.” Ray said. “What do you plan on doing with him?” Magnus asked. “Take him home with us for now.” Ray said. “We'll figure everything else later, once he becomes conscious.” “What if he wants to become a vampire again?” Magnus asked. “That's his choice.” Ray shrugged. “I'll hand him over to you and this time, make sure he's sired by someone whose blood type isn't B positive.” “He's going to be an outcast, even if he becomes a vampire. Those who lost fledgelings aren't going to forgive him or accept him so easily.” “Including you?” Ray asked. “I have to accept him if he becomes a vampire.” Magnus said. “I am head of the council.” “And the council is supposed to protect all vampires.” Ray murmured. “He's waking,” Alistair said. Todd blinked a couple of times. “Where're my glasses?” he asked, his voice barely audible. “Where am I? Who are you?”

Ray sighed. “Todd, what do you ?” Todd frowned before blanching. “It... it wasn't real, was it? The vampire and... I was sick, wasn't I? It was only a fever dream, wasn't it? Tell me I was dreaming!” Magnus sighed, “Mr. Todd.” “Call me Todd,” he interrupted. “Everyone does. No one ever calls me Mr. Todd or Melton. I've only ever been Todd.” “Todd,” Magnus said and from his tone, Alistair could tell that he was trying to be kind. “I'm Magnus, the head of the vampire council. I'm afraid it was all real, but it is over now.” “But how can it be real? I'm a person! I'm a human!” “I turned you back.” Ray said quietly. “You were out of control, Todd. I had no choice.” “No, it's okay,” Todd whispered. “If... if it was all real... then...” He swallowed. “I killed people, didn't I?” “It wasn't you.” Ray said gently. “Am I going to jail? Am I to be put to death?” There was very real fear in Todd's face. “No,” Ray said. “You can go back to your old life, or start a new one,” He gave a fleeting glance to Magnus and smiled at Alistair. “If you still want to be a vampire, that can also be arranged, and this time it won't be the same.” “I can't... I can't say now...” “That's okay,” Ray said. “You can take your time. You can stay with us for the moment, till you decide, all right? There's no hurry.” Alistair hadn't believed it was possible to love Ray more than he already did, but Ray was proving him wrong.

Chapter Forty-Eight

Aiden and Genevieve left the next day, and Jon went with them, saying it was better than staying under a Haspel's roof, especially with Todd there. Ray was relieved, though he knew Alistair was disappointed. I'll make it up to him. But the poison of Jon's words kept festering inside him, and if Todd wasn't there, he would have asked Alistair about it, but Todd was there. Jon returned a week later. Aiden was back in Vrelsk. Genevieve had left for her home and Jon had come to be with his brother. “He's still here, I see,” he said, but he made no further comments about Todd, just watching him with a brooding glance. “How did you know?” he asked one night after Todd had gone to bed. “How did you know he could still be saved?” “Are you actually agreeing with me?” Ray asked, leaning against Alistair, his arms around his waist and he was feeling charitable even towards Jon. “Don't delude yourself,” Jon said. “I just want to know.” Ray thought of the eyes which held only pain and madness and shrugged. “I knew because he was stealing blood instead of attacking humans. He waited till we were home before attacking us. He could have attacked us in a crowded street, but he didn't. Some part of him was still there, and it was worth saving.” “Has he made any decision on the future?” “We told him to take his time,” Alistair said. “We have yet to fix a date, and Daphne wants to have the wedding in Vrelsk, and it's winter there right now, and I like the spring, so.” “Has Magnus said what he'll do if he wants to be a vampire again?”

“He said it will be arranged. Notwithstanding all the killings, I think the vampire community owes Todd.” Ray said. “Burt was a douchebag,” Jon said. “He had no business siring Todd if he couldn't be around.” “It wasn't his fault either.” Ray said. Jon snorted and rose. “Watching the two of you is making me sick.” Alistair's soft laughter rumbled through Ray's frame, shaking it. “He talks as if we invited him.” He nibbled Ray's ear. “I think he's warming to Todd.” “I wouldn't hold out much hope.” Ray said, sceptical. “I'm taking Todd,” Jon said the next morning. “He says he will make me a vampire.” Todd said. “And that it will be different.” “Jon,” Ray said. Jon was very determinedly not looking at him or Alistair. Alistair started laughing, and Jon glared at him. “What's so funny?” “You are,” Alistair said, as he went towards him and hugged him. “I'll by the hugs, thank you,” Ray said. “But this had better not be some twisted revenge attempt, Jon.” Jon rolled his eyes. “As if I would cross you, Ray.” If Jon was calling him Ray, there had to be something wrong. “If something goes wrong,” he told Todd. “Anything, you head back here, okay?” “Nothing will happen,” Jon said. “I know how to take care of my fledgelings.” “So, you know that word,” Ray observed. “I was thinking you knew only the abbreviation.” Jon and Todd left in the afternoon, and Ray should have been happy and

relieved, but he wasn't. He no longer had any excuses for not asking Alistair about Shane. Did he want to know? Was he ready for whatever the truth was? “It's good to have the house to ourselves again,” Alistair said, pulling him into his arms and kissing him. “Yes,” Ray dredged up a smile. “Are you going to tell me what has you so upset? It's been driving me crazy for weeks.” He should have known Alistair would notice. “It's something Jon said,” he said, leaning against Alistair and burying his face in his neck. “Ray?” Alistair said, pushing him slightly away so he could look at his face. “Talk to me, please.” “He said,” Ray coughed to dislodge the lump that seemed to have taken residence in his throat. “He said Shane... that you turned me because you couldn't Shane and he died, that... that it might well have been him in my place.” “Ray,” Alistair said softly. “Look at me, please.” Ray looked. Alistair's eyes were on his, earnest and sincere. “I'm not saying this to hurt you or to make you feel bad, but Ray, I would never have turned Shane even if I had the time.” “You would have let him die?” “I would have done everything I could to save him, but I wouldn't have turned him. My oath... it meant something to me. It meant a great deal to me, and I wouldn't have broken it.” “You broke it for me,” Ray said. “Why? Was it out of guilt? Or-” “You want the truth?” Alistair asked. “The truth is I don't know. If... If someone had asked me, I would have said I would let you die, but when it came to it, all I knew was that I couldn't. It wasn't out of guilt, or any of the other reasons. I wasn't thinking of your parents, I wasn't thinking of Shane. All I knew was I couldn't let you die, that I had to keep you alive, even if it was as a vampire. And

that is the truth.” Ray believed him. It was there in his eyes, the truth shining out. “I was such an idiot to have listened to Jon,” “Jon was... he was hurt, and his reaction would always be to hurt back... no matter who... don't worry about it.” “He knew how to,” Ray said. “You know, when Shane died... it was like a part of me died with him, and even after becoming a vampire and then turning back... nothing changed... it was like I was permanently damaged.” Alistair opened his mouth, but Ray shook his head. “Let me finish, okay? Let me just say this? I felt incomplete, it was... I don't know, a constant feeling of wrongness about me and the world around me... and then you... you looked at me and said you were in love with me, and suddenly, none of it seemed real, none of it seemed to matter... and then I lost Dad, but you were there, and it made everything better... you make it possible for me to live with my losses. You make me want to live in spite of them, and Jon... he could see that, and he said those things, about Shane and Dad and you, and I should have trusted you. I'm sorry I didn't.” Alistair shook his head slowly, almost in onishment. “You could have just said you loved me.” he said. “I love you, Ray, and I'm not going to let you go for as long as you want me.” “Be prepared for the rest of my natural life then,” Ray said, kissing him.

About the Author

Niranjan is the pen name of Geetha Krishnan whose biggest ambition is to have a character named Garth in every book she writes. She also clamours for attention as a minor background character in her friends' books and has debuted as Geetha's in a WIP by a friend, an achievement that makes her prouder than all the literary awards she hasn't won. While not auditioning for character roles, she enjoys putting friends and acquaintances and their books into her own books. She's always open to more minor background character roles. More about her may be found at https://authorniranjan.in/

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