Disclaimer: I do not take credit or profit off of using the characters and idea of Forever Night. I am only borrowing those amazing characters from that wonderful show to write this story for pure fun and my own enjoyment.

 

 

Seduction Has a Price

 

Chapter One

 

 

 

            What can one say at times like these? To know something but unable to share with others in order to get a nonbiased opinion on the matter. It was most frustrating in its entirety for one woman to bare on her own. Staring at the computer screen before her, the sterile smells of formaldehyde and antibiotics surrounding her, she saw nothing on the screen before her. There was a constant yearning, a burning desire that she tried with all of her being to repress and hide.

            Natalie Lambert, Toronto coroner, was a woman who felt as if her world was one big cruel joke. Lately her attempts at finding a cure for one angst guilt ridden vampire seemed as if it was an effortless task that would never come to fruitfulness. It wasn’t the constant failures that bothered her so much but the lack of commitment to the goal of a cure on Nick’s part. His constant backsliding, as they were deemed to call it, not to mention his always running to Jeanette when he felt the urge to release his frustrations were one of the main focus of her frustrations. Oh, she knew all to well his constant visits to the Raven. Though now that Jeanette was no longer in Toronto she was well aware of his relationship with LaCroix growing.

            With the thought of the master vampire came a tingled chill down her spine. That man, vampire who had caused her much headache with her attempt to cure his ‘son’ also made her shiver with a hint of desire. Eyes clenching shut she could almost remember the feel of him behind her, his cool breathe wafting against the side of her throat.

            Closed fist slammed down on her desk, Natalie stood up with gritted teeth as she grumbled, “Don’t even go there Lambert!”

            Oh, they thought that she didn’t remember that Valentine day at Azure but she did. Though their efforts did work for a little while, over time her memories of the whole event came crashing back to the surface, the memory bringing a cold knot in the pit of her stomach. There were so many times when she wanted to confront Nick about it, to tell him that she remembered but whenever she looked into those depthless blue eyes of his she could not bring herself to speak of it. Part of it angered her to no end. If he loved her as much as he claimed he should fight for her, he should not give up no matter the cost but no he just stepped away from her, distancing himself away from her leaving her alone.

            Sighing heavily, Natalie took off her lab coat and headed for the door, grabbing her coat on her way out. With a quick explanation to Grace about her booking off early tonight, do to not feeling to well, she hastily made her exit from the morgue. She didn’t want to think about Nick Knight or his master LaCroix, the two vampires that were constantly within her life whether she liked it or not.

            Getting inside her car, Natalie leaned her head back against the headrest. “Oh Nick!” she exhaled in a soft desperate whisper. She loved him, even after all of the lies, the cold shoulder that he did for her own protection. God, she hated it when people tried to protect her from the harshness of reality! She was a grown woman with wants and needs and damn it, a will of her own and she deserved the right to choose whether or not to take the risks evolved with following her heart, her desires!

            Then there were the secret feelings that she held for that damned LaCroix. That voice of his alone sent a wave of fire through her being, sending lustful images to mind. He scared the hell out of her in more ways than one!

            Biting her bottom lip she shook those very images from her mind and started her car. Well speak of the devil! As soon as the car started the radio filled the silence of her car with LaCroix’s deep sensuous voice. Quickly she reached for the dial, her traitorous hand pausing briefly as she fought against the urge to leave it on and listen to his words, words that caress, words that mesmerize, that seduce. She clicked off the dial.

            Mentally berating herself for even starting to think about the very subject that she needed not to think about, she put her car into drive and drove towards her apartment, her empty apartment. She wanted to laugh at herself for it all seemed so pathetic. The only thing waiting for her at her apartment was her cat!

            What the hell was she doing with her life? She sacrificed so much for Nick and what does he do to repay her for her efforts… he distances himself away from her so as not to hurt her.

            A bitter laugh escaped her lips, “Too late Nick you hurt me every time I see you and you keep your emotional distance!”

            She didn’t want to cry. She refused to cry. She was so sick of crying for that man, that vampire. Here she was 32 year old and still alone, still single and wanting for something more, something he would never risk to give to her. Hell, she would be willing to come across if need be but even that she knew he would not do. It was a curse, an evil. Yeah right! Evil to her was something that was defined by actions not by what you are. In the scheme of things she had come to view vampires as another part of Mother Nature. Okay, so they flinched at the sight of holly objects but Natalie was never a very religious person. She often thought part of Nick’s beliefs were do to his 13’th century upbringing and the society in which he was from. Nicholas Night, 13’Th century Crusader! There were times when she wanted to belt him one for his constant whining about how he was so cursed! Oh, he had it so hard! Live centuries without fear of growing old, or disease, of death. His ability to fly and have supper powers. Oh he had it so bad. Poor Nick!

            Rolling her eyes Natalie pulled into her parking space and got out of her car and heading straight to her apartment. There was now purpose in her step and a plan coming to mind. Damn him if she was going to just sit in her apartment and waist another minute wallowing in her own self angst at the unfairness of her life. Dr. Natalie Lambert, county coroner, was going to go out and let herself enjoy life to its fullest. Vampires be damned!

           

 

            Inserting her keys into the lock of her door, Natalie’s ankles were immediately attacked by the furry warmth of her cat, “Hey Syd, miss me?”

            The answer she received was an enthusiastic “Meow” just before he dashed from her legs and headed straight towards the kitchen. Smiling to herself, she followed her feline friend and went straight towards were she hid his cat food. She had to fight to get to the bowl as Sydney pushed his head into the way to get at the food that she was trying to scoop into his bowl. Used to her cat’s antics, she nudged his head out of the way and finished her task.

            Dumping the empty cat food container into the trash, she headed straight for her bathroom and took a refreshing shower. No use going out with the smell of formaldehyde! Yep, that would really grab the attention of a handsome stranger.

            Taking her short shower she immediately started to towel dry her hair as she headed towards her closet. She wanted to look sexy, yet not slutty.

            With towel tied around her body she peered into her closet and grinned when she saw just the thing she was looking for. It was something she had bought a while back but never had the nerve or the occasion to wear. Pulling out the short red form fitting dress, she laid it out onto her bed and went towards the dresser to pick out her under things. Picking a strapless black laced braw and black bikini matching panties.

            A half an hour later Natalie stood in front of her dresser mirror admiring her new look. The dress fit her perfectly, hugging and accenting her curves nicely. The neck of her dress dipped dangerously low revealing a small amount of her bountiful cleavage and the hem of the dress reached mid thigh. She new if she bent over she’d be showing off a lot more than should be appropriate for public view.

            Biting the bottom of her lip she was wondering if she really should be doing this. Resolved not to let herself chicken out, she brushed out her now dry hair and placed her pearl necklace and earrings just before pulling on her matching red pumps. Pulling out a small black purse, she placed her drivers license, some cash, and a tub of lipstick inside. Satisfied that she had what she needed she exited her apartment and headed straight to her car before she lost her nerve. Now all she needed was a destination!

 

 

 

            After driving for twenty minutes or so Natalie decided that she might as well go to the only nightclub she was familiar with. What the hell if Nick found out! He was on duty and she was not about to allow him to dictate to her where or where not she should go. Hell, after finding the cure for that virus that endangered the community she should be safe enough. Even though there was a small voice in the back of her head asking her what the hell she thought she was doing? She decided to ignore that little voice of reason.

            Parking her car not to far from the front door of the club of the Raven, she was pleased as the bouncer waved her in, allowing her to skip the wait in line. As soon as she entered the door the pounding music assaulted and overwhelmed her senses, the smell of smoke and alcohol surrounding her. Allowing her eyes a moment to adjust to the darkness within she made her way straight towards the bar. The eyes that trailed her as she made her entrance was not lost on her and she needed something to loosen her rattled nerves and strengthen her courage.

            As soon as she reached the bar the bartender paused, his eyes unabashedly taking in the tantalizing sight that she made. He knew just who she was and wondered why she was here without her Knight? She looked deliciously alluring but he also held an amount of respect for the young Dr. She had saved the community even though his kind viewed her kind as their pray.

Leaning over the bar he asked her, “What shall I get you?”

Smiling Natalie answered, “Rum and coke.”

With a nod he quickly fixed her order, placed it on a small napkin, and slid it in front of her. As he saw her reach for her purse he placed his hand up in the air, signaling that the drink was on the house.

Before she could protest he was off to attend to another patron. Mentally shrugging, she sipped at her drink, enjoying the liquid as it slid down her throat leaving a trail of fire behind in its wake. The alcohol soothed her nerves and she relaxed into the feel of the clubs atmosphere. Inhabitations thrown to the wind she finished off her drink and headed off into the writhing bodies of the dance floor and allowed the music to envelope and rule her movements.

 Unknown to Natalie Lambert, a certain ancient vampire sat within the shadows, his icy blue eyes taking in the sensual movements of her body. Hands steepled before his lips, he admired her from afar. This was indeed a side of the good doctor that he had not the pleasure of witnessing until now. He meant it that night at the Azure when he had told her that she was exquisite.

The way she moved combined with her beauty was intoxicating to behold. Nicholas always had good tastes when it came to women. Ah, he knew too well the love that his Nicholas held for the good doctor. Nicholas did not deceive him in the slightest that night at Azure. He allowed his son to think that his deception had succeeded but he had come to his own conclusions that night. Killing Dr. Lambert would have been a waist of potential, for that is what he saw within her, potential. She had proven herself over and over in the past. He truly meant it that night in the hospital when they worked together as a team to make sure Nicholas secret was not found out. They did make a good team and he did find it rather… fun.

 

The music filled her, the beat pounding against every inch of her. Eyes closing, she let herself go, her hands moving against her hips as they moved in time with the beet. Her long hair swept across her back as she moved, its long strands tickling her bare shoulders. Raising her hands above her head then moving them back down her body, she enjoyed the rhythm of the music, loosing herself completely. It had been too long since she allowed herself to let loose and have some fun.

Hands sliding over her own hands as they moved against her hips startled her out of her enjoyment. Pulling away she turned to face whomever and was slightly taken back by the dark haired man before her. With his pale features and intense sea green eyes she knew that this was no mortal.

Natalie gasped as he pulled her hips towards his, his lips brushing her ear, “Lovely, I know just what you are looking for,” he purred.

Eyes wide, Natalie attempted to pull away as he continued to move against her, she could feel her heart starting to race. Trying to calm herself she turned her head towards him and calmly replied, “I’m flattered but not interested.”

His dark brow rose at this, as he pulled her tighter against him. “That’s not what it looks like to me. You miss the touch of a man, crave the desires that have left you alone with no one to quench your thirst. I will give that to you my sweat.”

Before Natalie could gain the courage to ram her knee up into his groin she felt herself freed from the strangers grasp. Stumbling back slightly into the dancing crowd, she looked to see who her savior was a swallowed hard. Oh, she needed another drink!

LaCroix, ever the master vampire, icy blue eyes looked coldly into the vampire that had dare threaten what was his, “I advise that you take an interest elsewhere. This mortal is under my protection.”

The vampire was enraged, how dare he…! The power that radiated from the blond vampire before him warned him just who he was dealing with. This one was an ancient and he knew better than to test his strength against him. The gold in his eyes flashed then faded as he stepped back and bowed his head, “My apologies. I was mistaken.” Walking away he swore to himself that this was not over. He did not take lightly being made a fool out of!

Turning his attention away from the retreating vampire LaCroix approached Dr. Lambert, “May I be so kind as to offer to buy you a drink?” this was no question.

Blinking away her confusion she allowed LaCroix to guide her off of the dance floor and towards the bar. A drink, yep she definitely needed a drink!

The reality of her situation was all to obvious, she Dr. Natalie Lambert, who knew better, had went to a vampire bar and flaunted herself in front of a bunch of blood thirsty vampires without a care in the world about her own safety. Cute, real cute Lambert! Next time, why don’t you make a little sign saying, “Death wish! Come and suck me dry!” she almost laughed out right with that mental picture. Not only that but now she was actually accompanying Nick’s sire, LaCroix, back to the bar so he can get her another drink. Nope, her life was anything but complicated!

As they reached the bar two drinks, one being rum and coke and the other the house special, was sat before them on the bar. LaCroix, ever the gentlemen, handed Natalie her drink before taking his and sipping at its contents, his eyes brazenly taking in her scathingly clad form.

Eyes focused on her drink, Natalie didn’t know what to say. Should she thank him for helping her out in what could have turned into something ugly or should she just wait and see what he would say? A quick glance in his direction and she could see his deep blue eyes appraising her. Looking away she downed half her drink. Oh boy!

Deciding that she was not liking this silent scrutiny she forced herself to push back her fear and looked back up at LaCroix to speak, “Thank you for helping me out back there.” Okay, she wanted to scream at her self as the words came out in an uneasy soft voice and not like the strong self-assured voice she wanted to use. All she needed was for him to know just how uneasy he made her feel!

LaCroix arched his brow at this, “You’re quite welcome. To what do we owe the honor of your visit this evening and unescorted as well?”

Natalie bristled at this, why the hell couldn’t she go out without someone to baby-sit her. Head held high she sat on the bar stool next to him and answered, happy with herself as it came out strong and sure, “I’m a grown woman LaCroix. I don’t have to have an escort in order to go out and have a little fun once in a while.”

“Ah, but knowing the risk of the clientele of this establishment it is not wise, unless you have a desire to shorten your life span Dr. Lambert or do you wish to join our ranks?”

Natalie’s head shot towards LaCroix, her eyes narrowing, “I’m perfectly happy with my life as it is.” Turning back towards the bar to take a sip at her drink she continued, “Besides, this was the only club I could think of. I thought that after coming up with the cure for the fever…”

Eyes appraising her profile his eye skimmed over her creamy white thighs where the skirt of her dress rode up showing more leg than she was probably use to showing. Continuing his appraisal, he licked his lips in approval as his eyes came transfixed to the creamy white exposed skin of her shoulder and neck. Dr. Natalie Lambert looked… tantalizing.

Placing his glass beside hers, he moved so that he was close enough to touch but yet keeping his distance, the small amount that it was. Leaning over towards her, he brushed back her thick main of dark wavy hair, still not touching her skin as he whispered, “You should never let down your guard when it comes to our kind Dr., it is a dangerous game to play and we both know that you would not be here alone if you were indeed happy with your life as it is.”

A shiver ran down her spine, his proximity and the feel of her hair being swept away from her throat making her bite the inside of her cheek in alarm. The truth of his words burned and she forced herself not to flinch away and run in terror. She was not one to back down from her fears nor run away from it, unlike a certain vampire she knew.

Drinking the rest of her drink she slowly turned to face the ancient vampire and softly spoke, “What would you know of my life, LaCroix? I am thankful for your assistance earlier on the dance floor but as you can see I am perfectly fine. I’ll take your advice to mind.  So you no longer need worry about me. Now, I wouldn’t want to bother you with my meager mortal existence.”

Placing her glass down onto the bar, she calmly pushed herself off of the bar stool to try and make a graceful exit. If only life would let you go through what perfect planning!

Amused and amazed at her audacity LaCroix did not like to be dismissed by no one, let alone by a mortal. Quickly he caught her arm gently in his hand, his chest pressed firmly against her back. Stroking the side of her throat with his other hand he bent down and whispered in her ear, “Don’t leave on my account Natalie.”

Uh oh, he used her first name when addressing! That could not be good.

“I must insist that you stay a while longer as it is that you have already consumed two drinks. We cannot have you driving in your current intoxicated state. Our dear Nicholas would not be happy if you were to come to an end so soon in your short lifespan.” Moving his hand down the side of her arm he gently took her hand in his, brining it up towards his lips, he kissed her soft warm hand lightly, “Besides, I am rather enjoying the pleasure of your company.”

As Natalie turned around to face him, his eyes locked with hers as he softly continued, “Let us continue this conversation in a more private and less noisy environment.”

Reluctantly Natalie, once again, allowed LaCroix to lead her through the dance club only this time they were headed to the private offices in the back. Well, Natalie thought, at least this way no one would hear her screams when the old vampire finally sunk his fangs into her and sucked her dry! It wasn’t as if she could stop it from happening if he so decided to end her life. Once again she was evaluating the wisdom of her decisions for the evening.

Something told her that if he wanted her dead he would have killed her long ago. Lord knew he had plenty of opportunities in the past! Well what ever was to come of tonight she was soon to find out, whether she wanted to or not.

 

Chapter Two

 

 

 

            Heart pounding within, she fought with her own instincts as they screamed for her to fight his hold and run for the hills. Natalie kept reminding herself that if he wanted her dead he would have done it by now, or so she hoped. The darkness of the club and the fact that she was going with him to his office, where they would be the only ones in the room, did nothing to belay her fears. Taking in a deep breath she fought with her fear, trying to push it down into the back of her mind. She could have sworn that she was shivering slightly. Well how did she expect her body to react to this, she was basically about to walk into the lions din.

            The pressure of his hand holding her arm and guiding her was surprisingly gentle but she knew well enough that if she struggled with his hold he was perfectly capable of tightening that grip and not letting her go. Biting the inside of her cheek, she was hoping that the trip would be a long one but unfortunately her night kept continuing to go anywhere but where she wanted it to lead. What could have possessed her to come here in the first place? That did it, it must have been for all those years keeping secrets and fighting with an obsessive vampire and trying to council a certain guilt ridden vampire while trying to find him a cure that finally drove her to insanity. Natalie decided that she just had to be insane for even coming to the Raven in the first place. She knew better! Maybe she was just tired of playing it safe, of being that mortal on a pedestal.

            Before she knew it she was led into a dimly lit room with a black leather couch, which sat in front of the terminal he used for his radio show, and the sound of the door being clicked shut. The sound alone made her feel week in the knees.

            Turning towards the intriguing creature before him, LaCroix watched her with interest as she stood in the middle of the room shivering slightly. He could literally smell her fear. His lips curved into a predatory grin.

            His smooth voice softly filled the room, “Please Dr., do have a seat.”

            God, did he have to sound so damned sexy! Eyes closing for a moment she slowly stepped towards the couch, lowering herself on the softy cool leather. Natalie was all too aware of her skirt riding up. She tried unsuccessfully to pull it back down. Damn, she just had to wear this dress!

            Trying to hide her fear, though she knew it was probably useless since he could probably hear the pounding of her heart, Natalie squared her shoulders and looked to LaCroix with an outward calm, “Okay LaCroix, I’m here as you so insisted. Now, what do you want?”

            His lips curved upward slightly, “As I said before Dr., I was enjoying your company and wish to continue our conversation.”

            Okay, that response did nothing to calm her nerves; the look alone in his eyes sent her heart to fluttering even more. Crossing her legs she leaned back against the cushion of the couch, she might as well get comfortable, “All right, what exactly do you wish to discuss?”

            Moving with the grace of a panther, he moved towards the other side of the room where he smoothly fixed two separate drinks at his wet bar. Walking back towards the couch he handed her a glass of rum and coke before he sat down beside her with his ‘drink’, “Let us start with what it is exactly that you wish from life.”
            Natalie sipped her drink at that before replying, “Pardon?”

            Turning to face her, he placed his arm on the back of the couch regarding her with cool ease, “What do you wish from life? Do you wish to spend each day or night working? Fill your time with the fruitlessness of your labors while your life passes you buy, resulting in you remaining alone. To live your life without the passion that life can give because of your isolation or to live without the hope of a lover, someone to cherish you, to make you feel important, beautiful. In the end will you look back and cherish the memories of the life you lived or regret the life that you have wasted?”

            She felt the walls of her heart being crushed, as she knew that he was pointing out what she was already feeling about her life. It was lonely. She did crave the passions of a lover, to have a man make her feel as if she were beautiful, cherished. She wanted Nick but unless she found a cure that would never happen. Then where would she be?

            Natalie looked away from those penetrating eyes. Did he somehow read her soul? Taking a rather large sip of her drink she tried to deny the truth of what he was implying, “I am not lonely, I have friends. My work is important and fulfilling. What I do helps to solve crimes even save lives. My life is anything but wasted!” if only her heart believed her mind.

            She felt as if she would cry but did not dare. Her eyes closed as she felt his fingers brush against the side of her face, brushing back her hair as if he were trying to see more of her.

            Leaning in towards her LaCroix’s voice was sensual and smooth as he whispered in her ear, “Oh, I do not doubt the importance of what you do. But you and I both know that even with friends surrounding you that you feel separate from them… alone. They can never know the secrets that you hold; they can never know the real Natalie. You, Natalie, are a woman with passion and beauty and yet you hide away in a useless quest that will end in tragedy or un-fulfillment. Can you honestly deny that you do not wish to be held by a lover? Can you honestly deny that you find your life lacking?”

            Turning Natalie glared at the vampire who was a little too close for comfort, “If you are wishing to persuade me from my helping Nick you are wasting your breath! As for my personal life, that is of no concern of yours and is none of your business!”

            His eyes bore into hers with intensity, taking her glass from her shaking hands he placed their drinks on the table behind the couch, “I wish nothing of the sort. You can continue searching for a ‘cure’ for Nicholas for as long as you wish but I tell you this now, it is a useless search, there is no way back. You are wasting your life away Natalie! I saw you on that dance floor; there is so much passion within you screaming for release.”

            Stroking her cheek he continued softly, “You are an intelligent and beautiful woman and yet you lack the sight to see the uselessness of your quest. It is a shame to waist what you have to offer on a dream that will remain only that, a dream. How much longer until Nicholas will have to leave? You, as well as I, both know that his time here is growing short. He would soon have to move on and where will you be? Alone, unfulfilled, and broken hearted.”

            Tears bordered her eyes, her heart feeling as if it were being crushed. Damn that vampire pointing out what she already knew to be true. As a single tear escaped her eyes she shakily answered, “I will not give up on Nick. I love him.”

            Gently he whipped her tears with his fingers before bringing his fingers to his lips to taste its sweetness, “Yes, but will he do the same for you? Does he return your love or does he push you away emotionally preparing you for that time when he will have to leave?”

            Quickly standing from the couch, Natalie turned her back towards him, her eyes focusing on the wall. Angrily brushing away the traitorous tears that escaped her lids she harshly replied, “Why are you doing this LaCroix? I doubt it is because you are concerned for my welfare.”

            Following her movement he gently placed his hands on her shoulders before answering, “You have done much for the community and I have grown to respect you. As much as you would like to disagree I am concerned for you.”

            Turning towards him she glared in disbelief as she sarcastically remarked, “Oh, I’m touched! Really! After all that you have put me through for, as you put it, ‘Nick’s sake’, and you expect me to believe a word that you say. Thank you so much for an enlightening evening!” she made to brush past him but was stopped by his hand on her arm. Looking down at the offending appendage she glared back up at him and faltered.

            There was anger within his gauze as well as some other emotion she could hardly believe was there, desire? Swallowing she tried to pull her eyes away from his but was unable to do so. She felt drawn into his gaze. Confusion furrowing her brow she softly questioned, “LaCroix wha…?”

            Cool soft lips pressed against hers drawing her lips into his mouth as his hands gently caressed her arms. As her mouth opened when she gasped in surprise his tongue snaked out to explore the inside of her mouth and caress her tongue. The heat of her body against his was invigorating, the sound of her heartbeat increasing causing the blood to rush through her veins intoxicating.

            Shocked at this sudden change of situation Natalie gasped out in surprise. As his tongue entered her mouth, caressed her tongue she felt as if she would melt into him. It had been so long since she had been kissed and it felt so good. Her hands absently moved over his chest upwards towards his shoulders before wrapping around his neck, her hands brushing through his short blond hair. He was intoxicating and tasted so wonderful. It was a fantasy coming to form and part of her wondered that if she were more sober would she be enjoying this as she was right now?

            She smelled of roses and jasmine. Slowly he moved his lips from hers trailing softly over her jaw line moving down over her throat, her pulse pounding underneath his touch. Her moan causing him to smile in satisfaction as he slowly moved back towards her mouth. He was pleased when she hungrily returned his kiss, their tongues dueling for dominance but neither winning.

Slowing the kiss he slowly pulled away, his deep blue eyes looking into her passion filled ones, “If Nicholas is such a fool as to deny you this then you deserve far better than he.” Gently stroking the side of her cheek with the back of his hand he continued, “Unlike my son, I am more than capable of giving you that which you desire and more if you so wish it. And I promise you, Natalie, that with me you would never be without feeling beautiful or cherished.”

Natalie felt speechless, her body warring with her mind as to how to react. Part of her wanted to pull him back to her lips and continue what he started and another part of her felt as if she would be betraying Nick to even consider what it is that he was offering. She could not deny that she did feel attracted to this vampire and the thought of his hands on her naked skin sent waves of desire through her.

Breathing labored she tried to real back some ounce of control. Just when did she lose control or did she ever have any in the first place? Confused as to her own reaction to what just happened Natalie was rendered speechless.

Taking her hand in his, LaCroix brought her hand up to his lips as he caressed the soft warm skin with his mouth. She was indeed intoxicating but he would wait for her invitation. It would only be a matter of time. With an expression of confidence and desire he continued, “Allow me to escort you home. You are in no condition to drive.”

Aware of her intoxicated state Natalie nodded in acceptance, her mind in a whirl as to what was happening. Well he definitely didn’t want to kill her that was for sure and right now she was trying to fight the urge to pull him back so those wonderful soft lips of his could work their magic. Hey, if he was escorting her home maybe he’d come in for a little foreplay! Lambert, what the hell are you thinking? This is LaCroix. Remember him, sadistic tyrant that is Nick’s master, the one who continuously hunts him down over the centuries and won’t let go. Ya know, bad guy… err, vampire!

Part of her was curious if any of what she read about vampire’s sexual stamina was true and hell he was 2000 years old. He must know some pretty damn impressive sexual acts. Down girl! Think soothing thoughts. Uh, that… my, he has a nice ass.

Natalie blushed furiously as her thoughts were starting to picture some of what he could do to her. Was she just plain desperate or something? It had been a long time since she had sex with anyone but he was so damned tempting! Oh, fresh air, that’s a nice change.

Escorting the lovely Dr. out of the club he was quite aware of her eyes as they were obviously taking in his form. A slight satisfied smirk graced his lips; Dr. Lambert was not immune to his charms. Though she tried to put up her defenses against his advances she was still a woman, a woman with unfulfilled desires that craved for someone’s attention. LaCroix would be all too happy to oblige and perhaps add her to his family. There were few that he would grace this honor to and she held the potential to, as Nicholas had so elegantly put it that night at Azure, bring an improvement to their kind.

 

Chapter Three

 

 

As she moved out of the club with LaCroix, Natalie allowed him to pull her towards him. The amount of alcohol that she had consumed that night had finally caught up with her and she was finding it hard to stand. It was nice to have someone to lean against. Trying to steer LaCroix towards her car she was slightly annoyed as he instead lead her towards the darkened alley.

            At this change of events, Natalie’s heart began to race, her inner alarm going off, “Um, I thought you were taking me home? My cars in the other direction.”

            Pulling her towards his chest LaCroix grinned down at the intoxicated Dr., “I thought a different mode of transportation would be more enjoyable.”

            Her eyes widened as she realized just what the old vampire was going to do, “Oh no, no, no, no. I don’t think…” she was immediately cut off as she felt her feet leaving the ground her voice squealed in shocked fright.

            His arms securely wrapped around the lovely Dr., LaCroix gently assured her, “Trust me Dr. I will not allow you to fall.”

            Arms tightly wrapped around his neck, Natalie pressed her face against his chest with her eyes squeezed shut as she shakily responded, “Oh yeah, perfectly logical that I believe a vampire. You could easily drop me and be done with me!” ‘Oh perfect, Lambert,’ she thought wryly, ‘just give the old fiend ideas!’

            He laughed at her response, “Why Dr., would I wish to waist all that precious blood?”

            If this was said to make her feel any better about this it was definitely not working. Instead she continued to clamp her eyes shut, knowing that if she dare open her eyes she would defiantly have a heart attack.

            Noticing that she had yet to open her eyes or relax LaCroix tried another approach, “Open your eyes Natalie, it is too beautiful a night to not enjoy the view.”

            In response Natalie stubbornly shook her head in the negative as she tightened her grip. Her response caused him to laugh, which in return made her angry. Opening her eyes, she glared at LaCroix, “You really do enjoy pissing people off don’t you?”

            He arched his brows, “Why my dear, life can be tedious without its little enjoyments.”

            Rolling her eyes in response she had to pull away from those eyes of him, damn them for being so alluring. Natalie had almost forgotten just why she had shut her eyes until she looked out at the city lights of Toronto passing smoothly bellow them. She gasped at the sight and found it breathtaking. Looking up into the night sky, the stars seemed larger, almost so close that she could just reach out and touch them. Her fear faded and was replaced by opened awe, never had she looked on the night like this, it was breathtaking.

            Sensing her relax in his arms, LaCroix smirked at her open admiration of the night. She would indeed make a lovely vampire.

            Not long after Natalie finally started to enjoy their flight she found herself slightly disappointed as they slowly sank down towards the ground into an alley just beside her apartment complex. Blinking at the sudden darkness, not much light to illuminate their surroundings, she still clung to the LaCroix. She was a bit surprised to find herself actually disappointed to lose contact with his firm chest as he separated from her grasp.

            ‘Oh, no,’ Natalie thought, ‘I will not consider his offer. He’s attractive yes but I don’t have a death wish but didn’t he say… oh hell Lambert lets face it your social life has been nothing but vampires and psychopaths.’ Biting her lower lip she was silent as his arm wrapped around her waist and was escorting her out of the alley and towards her apartment.

            He knew that she was attracted to him, her response to his kisses of earlier was proof, besides he could smell her arousal.

           

 

            The whole time that LaCroix was escorting Natalie to her door he had kept his arm around her waist his hand pressing gently to the base of her back. The memory of his kiss from earlier still fresh in her mind she could not help but to admit to herself that she did want to continue what he had started.

            Reaching the door her hands shakily went into her purse in perusal of her keys, her back turned towards the ancient vampire. Finally finding her keys she was frustrated to find that she was having difficulties getting the key into the annoying little whole.

            Seeing her difficulties LaCroix reached around Natalie from behind, his large hands enclosing around her small one. Smoothly he slid the key into place turning it until he heard the click of the lock’s release.

            The door slowly opened but Natalie just stood in her spot, the proximity of his presence behind her all too evident. Natalie swallowed as she fought with her inner will to move away from him. God help her but she wanted to kiss him again. Hell, she wanted to drag his vampire self into her apartment and throw herself at him! This was crazy.

            His smooth voice softly sounded into her ear, his cool breath sending a chill of desire down her body, “Are you all right Dr.?”

            Knowing that it was probably her intoxication that was making her act on her desires she turned towards the vampire. Damn him and that cool outward demeanor! She was so close all she had to do was lean forward. Totally out of character, Natalie leaned forward her lips hungrily tasting his as she pulled at his collar to pull him closer.

            Pleasantly surprised by her sudden action LaCroix returned her kiss with a passion. He was even more pleased when she tugged at his collar and was backing up into the apartment, closing the door behind them.

            Pulling away from their heated kiss Natalie pressed her hand to his chest, stopping him from leaning forward to kiss her or her to lean into him and kiss him she was not sure, she softly spoke, “This doesn’t mean anything. I love Nick and I’m a little tipsy but damn it I want you!”

            “But of coarse, this is about fulfilling your desires, our desires!” he ended the conversation with a hungry kiss.

            Hands fumbling with the buttons of his shirt Natalie finally had not the patience to wait and impatiently ripped opened his shirt, buttons flying across the room, as they made soft tapping noses on the floor. If she were paying any attention besides the fact that she was all over LaCroix and enjoying it, she would have seen her cat chasing after some of those buttons.

            His eyes flashed with desire at the fire that this mortal woman was expressing, he cared not about the condition of his shirt and their now missing buttons. His lips trailing down along her chin to the curve of her throat his hands were moving the straps of her dress down over her shoulders, his lips following the path of his hands.

            Natalie moaned deep within her throat at the feel of his lips upon her skin, damn, but it felt so good. Lips not able to seek out his she allowed herself to be immersed into the sensations her head dropping back in ecstasy. He definitely knew what to do with his hands and mouth and exactly where to touch. Her fingers were now tangled into his short hair and she found that she loved the feel of its softness. She groaned as his lips pressed against her braw covered chest.

            LaCroix was enjoying himself immensely, the feel of her warm skin beneath his touch making his groin stir with desire. It had been a while since a mortal had such a delightful effect to his body, they usually only stirred the vampire but he was feeling both vampire and the man very much craving this coupling. 

            He pulled back from his tasks and stepped back away from her now only dressed in her under garments. He grinned at the sight of her, the passion of desire reflecting darkly within her eyes, she was definitely full of surprises. She had always dressed so reserved and this was definitely a nice change.

            She staggered back slightly at the lack of contact and was frozen to the spot as he openly leered at her almost nude appearance. Natalie flushed with sudden self-consciousness, after all it had been years since anyone looked at her let alone looked at her with such open admiration and desire.

            “Natalie, you are intoxicating,” he purred in open admiration before closing the distance once again to relieve her of her undergarments. Smoothly yet swiftly she was free of her braw, he paused his eyes drinking in her perfectly round breasts. Bending down his lips took in her rosy nipple as his other hand massaged her other breast.

            Her knees almost buckled from underneath her as his lips caressed her breasts as if a starving infant, suckling hungrily. “LaCroix!” she moaned.

            He paused a moment mumbling against her flesh as he switched to her other breast, “Lucian, call me Lucian.”

            Biting her lips she leaned into him, “Lucian!”

            Grinning deviously against her nipple, he nipped playfully eliciting a gasp of surprise and then followed by a moan as he lapped against her stinging flesh. Briskly he swooped her up into his arms and carried her towards her bedroom, placing her before her bed he kneeled before her trailing kisses down her stomach.

            She could not believe that she was doing this, but damn it, it felt so good! As he kneeled before her and started to kiss her stomach her hands grasped tightly against his strong shoulders. Natalie watched him as he kissed her flesh, his fingers trailing the upper line of her panties. Her eyes were hungry for his touch, to be made to feel like a woman.

            LaCroix looked up into her eyes as his fingers hooked into the sides of her panties. At her held breath and the way that she bit her lower lip his eyes flashed with hungry desire as he slowly slid the garment down revealing her womanhood.

            Eyes moving away from hers he looked down at her womanly treasure and breathed in deeply taking in her scent. Hands slowly moving up her legs his lips curved upwards in satisfaction as he felt her hands tighten their hold and her moan of desire for something more. LaCroix was all too happy to oblige.

            She watched him transfixed as he looked at her so wantonly, she gasped out in surprise as he leaned forward and kissed her lower lips. As his lips and tongue played with her folds Natalie’s knees gave out completely and the only thing holding her up was his strong hands that were fastened securely to her hips and buttocks.

            Stars erupted from behind her now closed lids as his skillful lips, tongue and teeth brought her over the edge. Screaming out in release she fell forwards her hands shakily grasping his shoulders to keep her from falling completely on top of him. Her world shifted suddenly as she found herself now lying on her back on her bed, her chest heaving as she tried to regain her breath.

            Kissing the inside of her thighs he messaged the sides of her hips and started to slowly move back up her body until finally finding her lips. Their tongues dueled an ancient dance as Natalie slowly came down from her euphoric high. As she felt his tongue dancing with hers and his hands moving over her body she felt the hungry need to have him inside her.

            “Please,” she moaned into his mouth.

            Slowing their hungry kiss LaCroix gently pulled away, his eyes locking with hers, “If we go further know that I will have to bit. I will only take a small amount. I give you my word that you will come to no harm from the experience.”

            Her mind still felt foggy from her orgasm but the knowledge that he would bit her both thrilled and frightened her. Would he drain her dry? But did he not have plenty of opportunity to do so? 

            Her eyes raking over his body added with her desire to continue she nodded, “Yes, finish what you started…” she paused a moment before continuing softly, “please.”

            Standing from the bed he unbuckled the belt to his slacks, the entire time his eyes never leaving hers, and then unfastened his pants allowing them to fall to the floor. LaCroix stood their a moment, allowing her eyes to take in the sight of his full arousal, letting her know that he wanted her as much as she wanted him.

            Her eyes widened at the sight of him, he was at full attention and was rather very well endowed. It had been so long; this was going to be exquisitely painful. Licking her lips she held her arm out towards him, beckoning him to not allow her to wait any longer.

            He was pleased at her reaction to the sight of him and responded to her silent plea by smoothly approaching her, kneeling onto the mattress before pulling himself to her side.

            Hot naked flesh was pressed against cool naked flesh, a delightful combination that brought both parties desires to rise. Mouths devoured the other, hands pressing against skin in exploration as both got to know the other more intimately.

            Hands skimming lower to dip into her womanhood he was pleased to feel that she was indeed ready for him. Parting her knees with his, he lowered himself between her legs, moving to position himself.

            He paused his eyes searching hers, “Last chance to back out.”

            Frustrated that he had yet to enter she groaned, “Damn it Lucian, if you don’t continue I swear I will stake you myself!”

            Chuckling at her wantonness he slowly entered her, making sure that she adjusted to his large size as he pushed into her.

            Natalie’s head dug back into the pillows bellow her head, her hands grasping the bed sheets desperately beneath her. LaCroix made her hands unleash the sheets and instead entwined her fingers into his as he pulled her arms up above her head.

            Both moaned deeply as he finally fully sheathed himself into her. He waited but a moment, allowing her to adjust to the feel of him before he slowly started to move.

            Legs wrapping around his waist she pressed against each thrust attempting to push him further into her. She was moaning in ecstasy her head tilting back as she kept climbing higher and higher reaching the point of no return. As his pace quickened she knew that she would not be able to hold out much longer as she built up higher and higher. Feeling her lower muscles starting to contract she immediately exploded into orgasm, her eyes half opened as she watched LaCroix’s head rearing back his eyes a golden haze.

            Feeling her contract around him, he could hold out no longer as her blood called out for him and his body was crying out for release. Fangs erupting from his gums he leaned forwards licking at the point where her neck and shoulder met. Slowly his teeth sunk into her soft hot flesh. As her blood erupted into his mouth he swallowed in ecstasy as his body found its release.

            With the taking of her blood he saw all that made Natalie, her soul, her past, her fears, and her desires. Taking a last swallow of her wonderful nectar his fangs retract and he lapped soothingly at the bite marks to start the healing process.

            Her orgasm grew in intensity as his teeth penetrated her flesh, a mirage of images along with his own orgasm filled her being. Before she could make since of what she was experiencing it was over and she almost cried out at the loss of mental contact. Natalie lay beneath him totally spent, shocked and relieved that she was still alive and breathing.

            He studied her face, the look of awe covering her face as she basked in the afterglow of their lovemaking. She was indeed beautiful and worthy of his attentions. Nick would be most displeased but it was too late now, Natalie will be his.

            Kissing her temple he pulled her to his chest and breathed in the scent of her as she slowly drifted off to sleep. Grinning he knew that this was only the beginning.

 

 

Chapter Four

 

 

She felt the air fill her lungs then exhale, the heavy wait of her blankets keeping her warm from the cold. Turning onto her side she fought against the knowledge that she needed to wake up, that she had to go into work. Her mind was in a fog, there was something nagging at her consciousness, something very important.

            Natalie groaned as she moved her legs, she felt so soar. Why on earth did she feel so soar? And then, it all came back to her memory. She groaned again and this time it was not from the slight pain from the sourness of muscles that had long been unused.

            She, Natalie Lambert, had slept with one Lucian LaCroix, ancient 2000 year old vampire, Nick’s sire, and she had enjoyed it. Automatically her hand came up to where her throat met her shoulder and she flinched slightly as she touched the not yet healed skin. She definitely did not dream it; the puncture marks were there.

            Eyes shot open and she looked to her side… and thanked God that he was not there. Hands coming up to cover her eyes Natalie moaned, “Oh no, I can not let Nick know about this! Shit!” she knew all to well that he would find out and she felt like the worst person on the face of the planet knowing that it was going to break his heart.

            Sitting up she dropped her head into her hands at the slight headache that was there and not just from the slight hangover but also from the stress about what consequences she would face due to a lack of self-control. How could she have done this to him, hell, to herself? If she wanted to get laid she could have found a mortal somewhere couldn’t she? Oh hell, now she felt like a slut for even thinking that! What the hell came over her?!

            Reaching for the pillow to throw over her face in self-loathing she stopped as she felt the feel of paper crumbling slightly in her hand. Brow furrowing she pulled the piece of paper from its resting place and read it.

 

            Natalie,

               

                        Where true Love burns Desire is Love’s pure flame.

 

            L

 

            After reading the small note for the fifth time she crumbled it into her fist resting it against her forehead as she bowed her head. What the hell did he mean by the note? He could not be saying that he loved her or that she him. There was no way!

            Throwing the warm blanket off she could not think about it, she just could not bring herself to look into herself to find the answers she knew she should seek. She was angry and she could not be angry with LaCroix and that’s what made her angrier. He had given her numerous times to back out of sleeping with him even at that point just before it would have been too late to have done so. She just did not want to think on why she had allowed it to happen, on why she didn’t say no, on why she went to the Raven in the first place, on why she had dressed to kill and had allowed Lucian… LaCroix (she growled at herself for that slip) to escort her home and then kiss him and pull him into her apartment.

            Standing she wavered slightly, the realization that she needed something more than her usual coffee to get herself going. She felt a little bit weak, ‘Well hell Lambert, you just donated blood to a bloodsucking killer, who happens to be a 2000 year old Roman General and Nicks sire! Oh Nick! I am an ass, I am a bitch… how in the hell can I face him after what I’ve done? I should have just asked him to drain me, I might be better off if he did.’

            She felt retched as her mind replayed the events of that night and how much she had enjoyed the best sex she has had in years, hell, in her entire life! Biting her lower lip she forced herself to focus on getting to the kitchen and getting some orange juice and some breakfast. She was anything but hungry but she knew that she needed the food to reenergize herself from the blood loss that she sustained.

            After getting her breakfast and forcing herself to eat it, though she felt so retched about what she allowed to happen that she really had no appetite, she finished off her orange juice and headed towards the bathroom to take a much needed shower.

            Passing by the mirror that was over the sink in her bathroom Natalie froze. Turning towards the mirror, she was almost afraid to look, knowing what she would see. Narrowing her eyes to look closer at the two puncture wounds on her neck she closed her eyes at what she saw. They had already begun to heal but a certain someone would know exactly what they were and know that it was no mere hickey. Maybe God will show a bit of compassion for her and she won’t get called out on any cases that Nick would be working on.

            She forced herself to go into the shower, to not look at the proof of what had happened last night. She would definitely be wearing something with a high collar. Turning on the shower she stepped under the warm water, allowing its warm caress to lap against her bare skin and message away some of her soreness. She would have to take a closer examination of her body, she had the sinking suspicion that she would most definitely find bruising on her hips and buttocks.

 

 

 

            Sitting at her desk Natalie was having a hard time concentrating on her work. At every sound she would look at the door fearful that Nick would come through the door and see straight through her. Not only was that making her jumpy but she could not get that night out of her mind. If it was anyone else but LaCroix she might not have felt so guilty, after all wasn’t Nick pushing her away more and more each day. It wasn’t like he was actively pursuing her or in any type of relationship besides work and a thinning friendship.

            The thought of their friendship hurt her even more, that was the one thing that she feared to lose. She did love him but to lose his friendship would be the worst punishment anyone could ever think to devise to hurt her. Lately he only came in when working on a case or to allow her to take blood samples so that she could continue with her research for his cure. There had been no more movie nights, no more playful banter. There still were the small occasions when he did smile at her in that way that made her knees want to buckle or they said something not work related but those times were slowly diminishing.

            Taking in a deep breath Natalie buried her head in her hands, ‘And now I’ve gone and slept with his immortal enemy. Yeah, that will surely make things between her and Nick better. NOT!’

            The sound of the door opening made her jump in surprise as her head jerked up with eyes wide in alarm and she mentally hit herself, it was only Grace her lab assistant and friend. She really hoped that Grace didn’t notice. Why was she not surprised when her friend placed her hand on her shoulder in concern.

            “Natalie, are you all right? This is the fifth time tonight that you looked as if you were about to faint when someone enters the room.” She knew that something was up, Natalie has never acted like this and it was concerning her. She had half the mind to call Nick Knight and gripe him out about avoiding Natalie, it was obviously causing a strain on her young friend.

            Natalie forced herself to smile, “I’m okay, too much coffee I guess,” she hated to lie to her friend but how could she tell her the truth.

            Grace just looked at her with the look that says, “Yeah, right, I believe you!”

            “Really, I’m okay,” she did not want to get into a discussion in fear that she might just break down into tears. What the hell was she going to do?

            She decided to take a guess, “Does this have something to do with a certain blond detective? Did he do something to you and you’re afraid that he’s going to walk through the door?”

            Bless her friend but she knew her way to well, “What makes you say that Grace? You know that me and Nick are only just friends.” It was a line that had been drilled into her to say but she knew it to not be true. She loved him damn it and he was slowly slipping away!

            Grace rolled her eyes heavenward as if asking for some devine strength, “Just friends? Natalie it is all too obvious to everyone except for you and Nick that you both are anything but just friends. I’ve seen the way that he looks at you when he thinks no ones paying attention and I’ve also seen the same thing with you. I’ve also noticed that he’s been coming around less and less as if avoiding you and I see the hurt in your eyes every time he only speaks to you about work and nothing more. I don’t understand you two.”

            Leaning back into her chair she closed her eyes trying to force the tears that threatened to escape to not surface, “It’s complicated.”

            “Bullshit!” Grace exclaimed causing Natalie to look up at her friend in surprise, “Its obvious to me that you are pining yourself for him and he has done nothing but hurt you. If you two are not going to get together then at least go out and find someone else, someone that would appreciate and treat you like you should be treated. I like Nick but lately he’s been acting like a complete ass and I don’t like to see my friend get hurt and he’s hurting you Nat!”

            Natalie looked away, the tears no longer able to stay within her closed lids as she softly spoke, “Grace, you’re right but please don’t ask me to explain things to you right now. It hurts too much. I love him and it’s obvious that he doesn’t feel the same way about me. Just… please I do not want to talk about Nick, okay?”

            Grace’s expression softened but the anger inside grew towards Nick Knight, ‘Damn that bastard for hurting her!’ Hugging her friend from behind she tried to comfort her friend, “Okay. You know that I’m here when ever you need someone to talk too. Why don’t you and I take lunch together? We can pig out on some chocolate. How’s that sound?”

            Natalie smiled, brushing back the tears from her cheeks, God bless Grace, “That sounds good. Let me finish up this report and then we can take off for lunch.”

            Grace pulled away and squeezed her friends shoulder, “Sounds like a plan!” and then she left, allowing her friend to pull herself together.

            Hearing her friend leaving, Natalie slumped down into her chair. Grace had hit right on target about what was making her so upset. She then became angry. Why the hell did she have to feel so damn guilty for sleeping with LaCroix? Hell, she had enjoyed it and liked being treated like a woman with needs. Nick had no right to be displeased with her if he found out. He is the one that had been pushing her away from him.

            Taking a deep breath she swore to herself that whatever happened from here on out she was not going to wallow in self-pity or regret. That was Nick’s way about things not hers! Damn it! She was a woman with needs and if Nick Knight was not going to satisfy them then so be it. LaCroix was right, if Nick is such a fool as to deny her this then she deserved far better than he.

            Back straitening and head held high she felt a new sense of well being building within. From now on she would have nothing to do with vampires. She had half the mind on giving up her search for his cure but decided against that. She did love him and would help him to become mortal again but she was not going to waste her life away waiting on him. If he wanted to draw back from their friendship, fine, it was his loss. She would keep their relationship to only business as usual, she just subconsciously hoped that her heart would listen to the resolve of her mind and not betray her the next time she saw him. She would not shed another tear for him; she would not! Focusing on the report in front of her she quickly finished the last details of the report and signed it. Taking off her lab coat she went to get her coat and purse, she and Grace had lunch and a date with chocolate.

 

 

**

AN: The letter to Natalie from Lucian contains a line from a poem. Here it is in its entirety. I do not take credit for its existence so don’t sue me besides I’m poor you wont get much. Heck I’m so poor I can barely pay attention! Ha ha, old joke I know but is cute.

 

Desire

 

Where true Love burns Desire is Love’s pure flame;

It is the reflect of our earthly frame,

That takes its meaning from the nobler part,

And but translates the language of the heart.

 

Written by Samuel Taylor Coleridge [1772-1834]

**

 

 

Chapter Five

 

 

Why is it that every time you actually want something you never get it and when you don’t want something that’s when you do get it? The thought came to mind as she was roused out of out of an enjoyable lunch with Grace when her pager went off.

            Pulling her car over beside some of the police cars that were already at the scene, Natalie was thankful when she did not see Nick’s green Cadillac. Making her way towards the scene where the officers were awaiting her arrival she made her way towards the side of the building where she could see what appeared to be a woman laying face down naked.

            Pulling on her latex gloves she bent down beside the body. There appeared to be bruising along her spinal cord and arms as well as along her legs. From what she could see of the body it did not look as if she had been dead for more than maybe a day but could not know for sure until she could do a complete autopsy. The woman’s short curly blond hair was caked with blood and dirt. Not wanting to disturb the body until the investigation team arrived Natalie looked up from the body and her heart plummeted down into the pit of her stomach.

            Taking a deep breath she focused her attention back to the body waiting for Nick and Tracy to soon arrive. She had to focus on work, keep it professional, and don’t allow yourself to feel guilty. Oh, if only it was as easily said as done!

            The hairs on the back of her neck stood on end as he was now standing directly beside her crouched position of the body. Without looking up she spoke in her professional voice, “Time of death I would guess 24 hours but wont know definitely until the autopsy. She’s looks to be around 20 to 26 years of age, blond hair. I decided to wait until you guys got here before having some of the paramedics to turn over the body.”

            The smell of blood was thankfully not too strong and Nick found no difficulty approaching the scene. What did grab his attention was the fact that Natalie had yet to make eye contact or even to say hi. He knew that he had been avoiding her more and more lately and it was hurting her but he found it harder and harder to push back the beast when she was near.

            “Thanks,” he answered, “does it appear that the body was dumped?”

            Rising from her crouched position beside the body Natalie looked to Nick, the sight of him making her insides tingle and turn. God how the look alone of his smiling face made her ache for him! Damn him for doing this to her!

            “I’ll give you an answer after I get the body turned,” seeing his nod she signaled the paramedics. As the body was turned Natalie could see no puncture wounds only more brutal bruising, “Looks like a possible sexual assault. I see no puncture wounds and by the looks of some of the discoloration of the body she probably died of internal hemorrhaging or the hit to the head. The body does appear to have been dumped.”

            Nick looked grimly at the lifeless body, she looked to have been so young and to die in such a way… No matter how long of an existence he never got used to the cruelty of crimes against humanity in the form of rape. Nodding he looked to Natalie and for a moment he could have sworn that he sensed something but thought better of it as he sensed Tracy’s approach.

            Tracy felt queasy at the scene laid out before her, she just knew that the victim must have been raped and brutally beaten to death. She shivered, God how she hated these types of cases, “Let me guess, possible sexual assault.”

            Smiling at Tracy she motioned for the paramedics once again but this time to bag and transport the body back to the morgue. Tracy was young but a good detective, she would hopefully learn a lot from Nick, “Most probably but I’ll be able to give a more indebt description of cause of death after the autopsy.”

            Nodding to the two detectives Natalie made her leave and was grateful when she got to her car. Driving away from the scene Natalie had to pull over after she got a few blocks away and closed her eyes as she tried to calm her jumpy nerves. Needing something to take her mind off of Nick she turned on her radio and continued her drive to the office.

            The smooth voice of Lucian LaCroix, also known as the Night Crawler came over the speakers, “Desire, it beats within us all, calling to us to be fulfilled. What, gentle listeners, happens when you allow your desires to fester, to build? Will it drive you to do the unthinkable or will it force you to come to terms with something you have always known to be. May perhaps both...”

            Natalie’s grip on the steering wheel tightened as she listened to him continue, was he talking to her? “ Ah, but is the unthinkable such a bad thing. What if the unthinkable is exactly what you need? From the words of poet, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, “Where true Love burns Desire is Love’s pure flame; It is the reflect of our earthly frame, that takes its meaning from the nobler part, and but translates the language of the heart.” Very poetic indeed…”

            She clicked off the dial, her chest rising with her labored breaths, she was thankful that she was at the parking lot. He just had to talk about desire again and damn him she wanted a repeat performance of last nights events! She felt her insides quiver and her core warm with want, hunger, and need.

            Biting her lower lips she pressed her forehead against the steering wheel, the remembrance of that night started to replay in her mind. The feel of his hands caressing her flesh, the way his soft cool lips burned her with each caress sending her over the edge in ecstasy. The euphoric feeling of his fangs piercing her flesh, his orgasm adding to her own, the connection of souls.

            Natalie whimpered as the need for him was rising to the surface, she admitted to herself that she had always found herself attracted to the ancient vampire. Maybe he could love her and show her things that Nick was so unwilling to share with her?

            Leaning her head back against the headrest of her seat Natalie closed her eyes as she remembered the feel of his hands on her, her own hands drifting down towards her own sex. She rubbed herself through the fabric, remembering how it had felt when he had touched her. Heart racing she slipped her hands beneath her clothing her fingers grazing her wet sex. A moan escaped her lips.

            Realizing what she was doing she looked about her and was thankful that she had parked in the dark secluded part of the parking lot. Biting her lower lip she continued her motion, inserting her fingers between her folds, caressing her nub. She remembered the feel of his tongue and lips suckling and licking at her clitoris. She was rising on a wave, high and higher. He was her hand, he was the one making her rise. Natalie cried out when she came against her own fingers her body trembling from her orgasm.

            Panting she quickly took her hand away, her eyes nervously looking around the parking lot. Taking deep breathes she tried to force her body to come down from its high. Reaching for the box of clenex she whipped away the evidence of her activity and planed to go straight to the bathroom as soon as she entered the building.

            She just prayed that after she washed her hands and straightened herself up that Nick would not be able to tell what she had done. Natalie felt a wave of shame come over her as she realized that she just masturbated in her car, in the parking lot of where she worked, thinking of him.

            Hurriedly getting out of her car Natalie quickly made her way into the building and to the bathroom trying to look as nonchalantly as possible. She couldn’t believed how horny she became just thinking about the vampire. She would not go to him; she would not seek him out again.

            From across the building up on the roof of another, standing on its ledge LaCroix grinned. He knew that the broadcast would inflame her inner desires. Licking his lips in appreciation of her activities and in anticipation he knew it to be only a matter of time before she would seek him out again. Maybe he would send her an invitation of sorts. Watching her building for a moment more he took off into the night sky, flying back to the Raven. After all, what were a few days to a vampire?

 

Chapter Six

 

 

            Natalie felt tired, hell she just wanted to go home and crawl under the covers and forget about the past few days. Lately though, anything that she wanted never seemed to get granted. She had just finished autopsying her, hopefully, last customer for the night. Now sitting at her desk finishing up paper work did she find the time to actually think about what had happened over the past few nights, her face flushing as she remembered her behavior in her car. She was at work for crying out loud! Natalie knew that she had more control than that but lately it seemed to be waning.

            What was happening to her? Never in her life had she felt so out of control of herself but she had to admit at the same time she felt free by doing so. For so many years she had kept herself in perfect check, to finally allow herself to lose control… Natalie bit her lip; she did not want to think about it, to dwell on what was right in front of her nose. Natalie Lambert wanted more of what she had the pleasure of tasting last night and it was not just the sex it was him. LaCroix was so sensual in movement and in the way he spoke but there was a danger there, a danger that freightingly appealed to her.

            She was aware that she had a dark side but this was definitely taking the cake! She had always fantasized about it being Nick that fulfilled her long pent up desires, her needs, but it was not Nick that she had slept with last night.

Was LaCroix right about Nick, was he separating himself from her before leaving her? The thought of Nick leaving frightened her and it was not the fear of losing a lover ‘oh she wished that he were’ but a friend. The friendship that they had shared within the past six years had been the most important thing to her and now she feared that that friendship was dying. If Nick knew of what she had done last night would he hate her for it?

Propping her elbows on the desk, papers forgotten, she buried her head within her hands and sighed. She wanted to cry. Natalie felt so lost and had no one to confide in, no one that she could tell the whole truth too and they needed that knowledge in order to understand and advise. Her feelings toward LaCroix were confusing, was it just lust she was feeling or was there something more? Damn that vampire for approaching her last night! But didn’t he save her from that vampire on the dance floor?

Her thoughts were lingering back to LaCroix again when it should be Nick that occupied her fantasies not him. She could not deny that she had been thinking about what they did together the other night, frequently, and had been contemplating approaching him. Natalie was afraid of herself. She had never envisioned herself in this position that was for damn sure!

She was Natalie Lambert, top coroner in the province, smart, educated… and so, so lacking in the romance and passion department! For the first time in years last night she had felt like an appreciated, wanted, passionate woman. He was so not like what she had expected. Somehow she thought that with him there might have been some roughness, some violence but it was tender, exotic, passionate, and very satisfying. Shit, she needed to concentrate on her paper work not her social life!

Dropping her hands from her face, she looked to the open folder laid out before her and sighed. Work as of late seemed so…tedious. The puzzles that she so loved to solve seemed not as satisfying, no that was not it, they seemed so empty. For whom did she have to share her discoveries with when she got home from a long night? Her cat. Pathetic, God was that ever pathetic! Her life didn’t seem so before vampires entered it. Damn bloodsuckers! Nothing but trouble that’s what they were. But damn it if they weren’t so damn alluring, fascinating! She had told LaCroix that at Azure.

At the thought of Azure Natalie wanted to cry all over again. Nick didn’t even try to fight for their love. He gave up and made her forget, with the help of LaCroix, and had been nothing but a friend ever since. Oh, she noticed those moments when the look of longing and love shone but was quickly disguised within his eyes. Every time she saw him disguise it, hide it from her it broke her heart a little more. She’d like to blame it all on LaCroix, believe that it was his entire fault but it wasn’t, not really. In time she came to believe that he had just given the obstacle needed for an excuse for Nick to not pursue a romantic relationship with her. Nick probably feared of harming her, killing her in the throws of passion but LaCroix was proof that passion could be nonfatal between mortal and vampire and that took control.

Control, LaCroix had that trait down in spades. Besides if he did lose control with her and took too much she would be willing to be brought across. Natalie had nothing against vampires save for that whole kill to survive thing but they needn’t do that in this day and age with all the blood banks and donated blood. Oh, she was not naive, she knew that she would have to kill sometime in her vampire life but it would be a thing of survival and… Her brow furrowed, what the hell was she thinking!

She was not considering becoming a vampire but didn’t she when they had that stupid asteroid scare? That request was made out of fear of dying though, or was it? Nick had denied her then and she was later glad that he did not grant her request but the knowledge that if faced with the choice of having her die and bringing her across that he would choose death, hurt her more than any weapon ever could. There were so many benefits of being one of the night, of coarse having to live on blood to survive was a major drawback, but to live for so long, to see all that they had seen, the history that they must carry within…she could see how science and technology would advance.

Natalie sighed, she was actually tempted by the thought of becoming a vampire. She had to admit that the thought of it was appealing, hell, who would not be tempted at a chance of living an exceptionally long life, never physically aging! Looking back down at the open folder she mentally chastised herself. She should be working not contemplating her dwindling relationship with Nick, her love life, and definitely not a life as a vampire. She was mortal and that was not going to change.

A cold hand on her shoulder caused her to leap up almost ten feet from her chair with a startled yelp. Looking up she glared at Nick, who stood there innocently, “Damn it Nick! Don’t do that! You scared ten years off of me!” she scolded as she was trying to catch her breath and slow her thundering heart.

Nick could not help but grin, “Sorry Nat, but I don’t think that a pack of wild elephants coming through the morgue would have warned you of anyone here. You seemed to be off in your own world. Been around me for to long, you were actually… zoned out.”

Natalie could not help but to smile at his grin, “So Nick, what brings you here? I already sent over the file for the Hamilton case.”

He leaned against the corner of her desk, “Can’t a friend just come by and visit?” at her disbelieving look he continued, “All right, I’m a little worried about you. You did not seem yourself at all at the scene tonight.”

Her smile faded, “Well, Nick, I’m surprised you even took notice being that the only time you ever speak to me of late is if it is a case or about me finding your cure.” Natalie mentally cringed, she did not plan to let him know her feelings, she was supposed to play professional and ignore the pain he caused her heart.

Nick almost flinched from the impact of her words; he had been avoiding her more and more in fears of losing control around her and not just of his beast. He wanted her so much, loved her beyond words but if he allowed himself to act on those feelings she would end up being hurt, fatally so.

Shifting his weight on the edge of the desk he softly spoke, “Nat…”

Natalie cut him off, “No, don’t Nick. We both know what it is your going to say and you know what? I’m sick of the excuses, sick of the cold shoulder, sick of being used!”

He made move to protest but she was not finished, “Let me finish! It’s obvious what you’re doing. You’re getting ready to move on. You’ve already been here too long and you want me to be as emotionally detached from you as possible so it wont hurt so much when you do leave.” Natalie laughed without mirth, “Well Nick, I value your friendship more than you know and what you are doing to me hurts, it hurts like hell. If you wish for it to just be professional then fine I’ll just have to suck up the hurt and bear with it. Just don’t come over here and try to be my buddy acting all concerned about my welfare when you’ve been avoiding our friendship like the plague. That’s just adding salt to an already opened wound!”

After her speech she turned back to her desk, “Now if there is nothing that I can help you with concerning a case then I have work that needs to be done.” She did not want to look at him in fears that the barely contained tears would fall if she did so.

He stood there stunned, pain etched his features at the revelation of her words. Nick knew that his distancing from her was painful to both of them but he did not fully comprehend the amount of pain she felt until now. Studying her he wanted to say something wanted to ease that pain but knew not what he could say in order to do so, because she was right. He was distancing himself away from her because he did not want it to be too painful when he did finally leave which would not be long.

A sensation filled his senses as he studied her further and he frowned. Blue eyes scanning over her he noticed the high neck collar but that was ridiculous. Stepping away from the desk he moved right behind her, scanning more closely.

As Nick was standing behind her scanning his senses Natalie’s back stiffened, “Nick what are you…?”

Nick’s eyes flashed amber as he grabbed her shoulder and pulled down the collar of her shirt. A growl escaped his mouth as he saw what he feared to see, there on her neck were two distinct fang marks almost heeled but noticeable by his kind. His eyes were fierce with anger as he softly, yet demanded, “Who did this? When?”

She wanted to push him away, run away from the anger she saw reflected within his eyes but knew that it would only anger beast within him more. Inwardly she was scared half to death but outwardly she showed nothing but calm, “That is none of your business.”

“None of my…!” that’s when he knew, “LaCroix! He did this. Damn him I’ll kill him permanently this time!” he growled out while tightening his hold on her.

Natalie winced, “Nick… Nick, you’re hurting me!” she gasped.

Nick saw what he was doing and immediately slackened his grip of her shoulder, “Nat, I’m so sorry! Why didn’t you tell me?”

She looked away, “Because it was consensual.”

“Consensual?” Nick was confused, “I don’t understand. How could it be consensual?”

She stood then, forcing him to let go of his grasp of her shoulder as she walked away from him and then turned to face him. She had to tell him the truth, she would not let him go off after LaCroix and get himself hurt or even killed by attacking his master.

Running her hands through her curly hair she held her head a moment trying to think of the best way to tell him. Hell there was no best way, “I went to the Raven the other night.”

“Natalie, you know how dangerous that place is for mortals…” Nick seethed.

“Yeah, well, I was depressed and I wanted a night on the town and, guess what, it was the only place I could think of. Don’t lecture me on how dumb an idea that was… I know that I just didn’t think about it at the time. Anyway I was dancing and was…” Natalie paced as she tried to tell him what happened, she needed him to understand.

Why would he understand? Hell, she didn’t even understand! Sighing she sat down into her chair, “lets just say approached by someone that was a little more interested in me than I was him and he was not mortal. LaCroix basically saved me.”

Glancing up at his expectant and very unhappy gaze she continued, “I was intoxicated, we talked, he escorted me home and then we…” she looked away not wanting to see the hurt, the betrayal that would be in his eyes when she said the rest, “had sex and well you get the idea. Nick, he asked me several times if I wanted to stop…”

Rage, anger, pain, heart wrenching pain, whether it was directed towards her or himself he was not sure, “Natalie…” he chocked on her name.

Her head snapped and the feeling of guilt, of pain for hurting him turned to anger, “What? Don’t Natalie me! I’ve been miserable. Do you know that? For so long I’ve been putting everything of myself into finding your cure, on hoping that you love me as much as I do you, craving for your touch in more than a passing touch to the arm or shoulder. I’m not some saint, Nick! I’m tired of being alone and sitting on that pedestal you’ve put me on, I want passion damn it! Hell a little romance would be nice too.”

Nick dropped to his knees before her, grabbing her warm hands in his cool ones, “Natalie,” he implored, “LaCroix is not to be trusted. He will use you in hopes to hurt me! Nothing with him comes without consequences. Do you have any idea of what you have done in allowing him in taking your blood?” at her confused look he continued, “Blood is more than just food to us, it holds everything that you are within it. All of your secrets, your past, feelings, thoughts... In tasting your blood he has formed a connection with you, a connection that will draw you to him and he will want more of you.”

Fear crossed her features, “But he told me that…” damn, he never said that it would be their last encounter.

“Oh Natalie,” he pulled her into his arms, “I promise that I will protect you from him. I wont allow him to harm you. Oh, how much I love you.”

Her eyes closed, tears sliding down her cheeks, “Damn it Nick, of all the times to tell me you love me you choose now! Why couldn’t you have fought for me at Azure?”

Nick pulled away looking into her tear streaked face, his thumb brushing away the tears, “You remember that? For how long?”

With a sigh she answered, “A few weeks after it started to slowly come back and a week after that I remembered everything.”

His eyes closed at this revelation, “Nat, I… I thought it was best that you didn’t remember, thought that you would be safer.”

She pulled away from him then, her arms wrapped around herself in a tight protective hug, “Yeah well it should have been a decision for me to make not you.”

In a whispered voice she said, “How could you do that to me? Ripping away my memories, raping me of what I held dear. You had no right!”

Standing, he approached her, his hands resting on her arms, “I am so sorry Nat. I’ve regretted what I did from the beginning but I just couldn’t lose you to LaCroix.”

She turned on him then, “You could have brought me across. Hell, you could have gone ahead with your little act and allowed me to remember. Something! But no, even faced with the possibility that I was going to die when we had that commit scare you still would let me die rather than bring me into your ‘world of darkness’” she quoted the last words using her first two fingers on both hands.

His face hardened, “You would become a monster Nat, a thing to be loathed, damned for eternity. I could never do that to you.”

Shaking her head she laughed in disbelief, “Vampires are not all evil Nick, I’m sorry but I refuse to believe that they are all damned creatures of the night. You’re not evil Nick. Yeah, you did some bad things when you were first brought across but you are not that same vampire anymore. You screwed up! Hello! Hate to break it to you Nick but everybody screws up every once in a while.”

He desperate grabbed her arms then, “Natalie, I killed, enjoyed it, craved it. I fight that demon every waking moment of my existence. The hunger is constant, never ending. When you’re first brought across you have no control, only the vampire has control and you are a hungry monster until you’ve tasted your fill.”

Natalie closed her eyes, she was tired, she didn’t want to argue with him on the beliefs of what’s evil and what’s not. She had a lot to figure out. Changing the subject she softly asked, “You said that I will be drawn to him…” she looked up at him with fearful eyes, “I’ve been wanting to go to him. God, Nick, I want him and I don’t know how to stop wanting him! I’m so confused!”

He pulled her to him, this was not the place to discuss this, they had been lucky that no one had disturbed them. Breathing in the scent of her hair he kissed the top of her head saying, “I know… book off for tonight and I’ll take you home. We can continue this there, okay?”

She nodded, no longer able to speak. Natalie was so confused, if what Nick said were true then these feelings that she was having for LaCroix were because of this link but didn’t she have these feelings before her night with Lucian… LaCroix, she corrected herself. It felt as if her world was tumbling down around her and she didn’t know where to go for shelter. Could she really believe Nick or was he just blinded by his hate for LaCroix? She felt so safe with Nick but she wanted LaCroix. Damn it she could not be in love with two different vampires at once! Oh God, was she in love with Lucian… LaCroix? No, that was the link Nick told her about, it had to be. How could she love someone she barely even knew? Natalie could not deny that she wanted to rectify that, she wanted to know the vampire named Lucian LaCroix. The things he must know, seen. He was so cold and frightening when faced but when he was with her that one night of passion there was another side to him, a gentle, loving part that few had experienced… well experienced and lived to tell about it. Things would look clearer after she got some sleep it just had to!

 

 

Chapter Seven

 

 

            The ride home was spent in a confused daze, as Natalie allowed Nick to drive her to her apartment. Her eyes peered out of the window watching as the lights and buildings streaked by. Her mind was in a whirl. Was Nick right? Was her attraction and desire for LaCroix all due to this so-called link that Nick claims was established as a result of him tasting her blood?

            Closing her eyes, she leaned her forehead against the window. She was just so tired, tired of always trying to do what was right, tired of the emptiness of her life, the lifelessness. No pun intended. Where was the fire, the passion, the drive? It was a night ago when Lucian had made passionate love to her. Never had she felt so alive than when she felt his touch, his cresses, and his kiss. Soul burning kisses that seared her igniting something long thought lost within. Those eyes of his, oh how they looked at her that night. It was as if he could look right through her soul her being, and knew all. Natalie wanted him, God how she wanted him!

It scared her just how much she wanted him and even when the supposed love of her life was with her she still felt the need to go to LaCroix. Did she still love Nick? Yes, of coarse, but was it the same type of love as before Azure? Eye’s snapping open she could see her reflection through the window she was leaning upon and saw the doubt within her own eyes.

Stopping outside of Natalie’s apartment Nick saw her leaning her head against the window. She had not said one word since they had gotten into her car. He had decided to drive her car being that he could just as easily fly back and get his later before the sun rose. His heart clenched within his chest as he remembered what she had told him. LaCroix had slept with her, made love to her, and tasted her blood. It was something that he had desired for so long but never acted upon it knowing that he would not have control over his vampire. And whose fault is that Nicholas? If you deny your own nature and starve yourself weakening yourself until you are as weak as a fledgling.

Nick’s jaw tightened, damn his Sire! He had no right touching her, taking what should have been his. Anger swelled within once again and he had to close his eyes to regain control over that anger, the vampire just bellow the surface.

Funny, since when has Natalie been yours?

Hands grasping the steering wheel so tightly that it made a small noise of protest from the amount of pressure Nick’s mind lashed out at his mental link with his Sire. He was not surprised when he was only met with a mental barrier, keeping him from sensing LaCroix. Raining in his control, Nick turned off the ignition and turned towards Natalie, she still had her head pressed against the window facing away from him.

Nick’s brow furrowed with concern, “Nat?” he question while he gently touched her shoulder.

Natalie jumped at the contact and then looked to Nick with a weak smile, “Sorry, I was thinking.”

He nodded in response, “Come on, let’s get up to your apartment and we can finish talking.”

She said nothing but opened the door and got out. Making her way to her apartment she did not even look back to check and see if he were following her. Natalie knew that he was. There was no way that he would just leave their conversation at what they had left it at the morgue. In truth, she just wanted to go to bed, to lose herself into the realm of dreams.

 

 

Reaching her apartment door she paused. He was standing behind her, his presence unmistakable. Her hands were shaking and then his hands were over hers taking her keys from her and opening the door. It had opened but she just stood there, stood there wanting to turn around and take him into her arms and kiss him, drag him into her apartment and make passionate love.

Nick touched her shoulder when he saw her pause, “Nat?”

She jumped, shaken out of her memory she turned towards Nick with an embarrassed smile, “Sorry, I’m more tired than I thought.”

He said nothing but watched her with concern as she entered her apartment. Natalie picked up Sydney as he wound himself around her leg purring. Smiling she went automatically to the kitchen to open him a can of cat food whilst Nick watched her every movement. She was avoiding the inventible, this she knew, but she really did not want to go into this right now. Natalie just wanted to sleep.

Finishing her task of feeding her hungry feline, Natalie stripped off her coat and headed for the couch. Throwing herself into the cushions she laid her head back against the back of the couch with eyes closed.

From the balcony of her window a dark shadow stood just out of view. His eyes lighted by the light that escaped through the window of her living room. The whole scene was being played out before him. His cool countenance never faltering as he watched Nicholas interfering with his plans, it was a wasted effort, she will be his.

Nick sat silently beside her on the other side of the couch, “Natalie?”

One eye opened and regarded Nick, “Nick, I don’t know what else there is to say or what there is to do. I’m too damn tired to think straight right now let alone on what to do about Lucian.”

The frown on his face intensified as she called his master by his first name, “Natalie, I wont allow him to use you. I will protect you.”

Both eyes opened and regarded him with disbelief, “A little late for that aren’t you Nick?”

A grim smile spread across his thin sensual lips.

At that Nick did flinch as if hit, “I am so sorry Nat.”

Shaking her head she sat up, pulling a pillow from behind her and holding it in her lap as she crossed her legs Indian style on the couch regarding him, “I know Nick. I’m sorry too. I didn’t mean to snap at you. You know me, I get irritable when tired.” She didn’t voice all of her thoughts knowing that it would only hurt him more.

He managed a weak smile though forced, “Don’t forget coffee or chocolate.”

She smiled in return, “Yeah well, those are vital to my survival Nick.”

Nick chuckled at that, “Noted.”

Looking down at the pillow in her lap she softly told him, “Are you sure that this link of his can control my emotions the way you claim?”

Taking her warm hand in his cool ones Nick softly answered, “Yes, he can.”

“So it doesn’t exactly mean that he is?” she asked, a part of her wishing that it were true but a part of her not wanting it to be true.

Nick’s brow furrowed at this and he squeezed her hands lightly, “Nat,” he waited for he to met his gaze, “You don’t know him like I do. He is a manipulative monster who cares more for himself than he does for anyone else. You know this Nat, hell you’ve actually have had dealings with him.”

She pulled her hands away and stood, “So, your saying that there is no way that he could possible actually be attracted to me, desire me? Nick, I know that you and he have not been exactly the best of buddy’s but why does everything have to be because of you? I mean, hell Nick, you are not the center of the universe!”

He was quickly behind her, turning her to face him, “Look at me Nat! You are a beautiful and desirable woman but you do not want this. If you go to him, he will either kill you or bring you across. You need to find someone who will love you, cherish you, and give you a family and support. He can bring only darkness. I don’t want that for you. There is too much light within you Nat and I don’t want to see that light fade.”

Anger boiled just bellow the surface, “You, its all about you. It’s not about what I want. How the hell would you know what I want? Its my life!”

He shook her then, “Not if he takes you. If he does bring you across you will be his forever. There will be no escaping him.”

She broke away from him, “Nick, I’m tired. I think its time for you to leave.”

He stood there regarding her blankly, “Nat…”

Glaring at him she poked her finger into his chest, quickly stopping that action when it hurt her finger. Damn vampires and there chests of steel! “No, listen. I’ve been up for…” she had to think on this for a while, “over fourteen hours. I’m tired, emotionally drained and unable to think straight let alone argue and discuss whatever and get anything through to your thick skull. You’ve escorted me home and here I am safe and sound and sleepy as hell! Good night, morning, whatever! I just want to go to bed.”

And with that she stormed out of the living room slamming her bedroom door shut in her wake. Nick stood there, with mouth gaped open, his protest lying unsaid on his tongue. As he stood there her voice softly came through the door as her voice innocently said, “Please lock the door on your way out!”

Standing there for a moment longer he turned and left, locking the door behind him with the spare keys that she had given him. There was no point in trying to argue with her when she was in this type of mood. When Natalie got like this there was no talking to her. He’d wait and talk with her the next night. Nick was not going to allow LaCroix to destroy her, the love of his life.

 

She leaned against the door of her bedroom and closed her eyes as she heard the door shut from Nick’s departure. She knew that she was a little shorter with him than she wanted to be but she just could not talk to him about LaCroix, about her feelings. What she needed was a non-biased opinion and Nick was too emotionally involved to give her that.

Knowing no other vampires to confide in she made her decision. She was going to meet her fears head on. Go to him and demand the truth. No matter the price of such an action it was something that she needed to do.

Moving away from the door she stripped off her clothes and headed for the shower. All she needed was a quick shower and her pajamas and a good sleep and she would be ready to face LaCroix tomorrow on her lunch break.

Satisfied with what he witnessed LaCroix was mentally making his own plans. It was true that he did indeed have a link with Natalie but Nick was wrong on the account that he was using that link to drive her to him. He wanted her to come to him on her own accord without the stirrings of the link between them.

LaCroix could sense the turmoil within her, the confusion at what it was that she was feeling towards him. He knew of her deepest and darkest desires and it pleased him to know that he was among those desires and wants. She was already his, she just needed to realize it.

Nicholas, you had your chance and now it is too late for you. Her love for you has changed into that of one for a friend or brother only she does not realize it. Ah, but she does hunger for me mon cherie! You are mine Natalie. Dream of me and be with me when you have realized your needs.

 

 

Chapter Eight

 

 

            If she knew how her day would have been when she first woke up to get ready for work that evening, she would have stayed in bed and called in sick. As soon as she entered the office she knew that coming in was a bad idea. She could not focus!

            Natalie was basically moving through the motions to get her work done and, even when doing so, her mind was someplace else. She had already dropped her scalpel three times during her latest autopsy, not to mention actually almost falling into the chest cavity of one large male that had been shot three times. Her night just could not get any worse.

            Just as she thought this, the door to the lab was opened and in walked Grace carrying a large bouquet of white roses with red center. Raising an eyebrow at this new arrival, she looked skeptically at the roses. Was it Nick’s way of apologizing? She frowned, that could not be it, she was the one that yelled at him but then again Nick always felt guilty about everything.

            Grace’s face glowed as she walked in, “Okay girl, you’ve been keeping secrets from me?”

            Natalie laughed at her friend’s mock accusing glare, “No…” she looked for the card. Finding it she glanced up from the envelope towards Grace’s expectant gaze.

            “Well, you don’t think that I’m going to miss out on finding out who sent these to you. They’re gorgeous! Whoever sent them has great taste! Definitely not from Nick.”
            She had to laugh, “Grace!”

            Grace bounced up and down expectantly, “Come on, open it or so help me I’ll do it for you.”

            Shaking her head as she still laughed, this was definitely something she needed to lighten her bad evening, “All right, all right… let me open it.”

            Upon opening it her heart race rose as the name of the sender was written in elegant script:

           

Natalie,

                        The red rose whispers of passion,

                        And the white rose breathes of love;

                        Oh, the red rose is a falcon,

                        And the white rose is a dove.

                        But I send you a cream-whit rosebud,

                        With a flush on its petal tips;

                        For the love that is purest and sweetest

                        Has a kiss of desire on the lips.

 

L

 

            Ignoring Graces expectancy for her to read the message out loud, Natalie sat down her eyes scanning the poem once again, her mind in chaos. So lost in thought she did not even protest as Grace took the note from her loose fingers.

            “Oh, Nat,” Grace sighed, “This is so romantic! Whoever this L is don’t let him go.”

            “Lucien,” Nat absently answered. What should she do? Should she still go and see him on her lunch date to confront him? How long has she dreamt of being romantically swept off of her feet? But this was Lucien LaCroix, why would a 2000-year-old vampire be interested in her in that way? Didn’t he look down on mortals?

            Grace broke through her thoughts, “Nat? You okay hun, you don’t look too good?”

            Blinking out of her thoughts she forced a smile to her lips, “Yeah, I’m just a little surprised.”

            Her concerned was forgotten, “Lucien, huh? Well, he definitely knows how to impress. These definitely cost him a pretty penny. I mean, roses, this time of year? And that poem… wow!”

            Heart racing she knew that she had to confront him, had to know the truth. There was no backing out of her decision of last night. Did he love her, could he, or was this some part of a plan to get back at Nick for something that happened long before she was ever born?

Looking back at Grace, Natalie took the note from her friend and handed her the roses, “Grace, can you do me a favor and put these at your desk? If Nick comes by and asks about them I don’t want him to know there mine.”

            Raising her dark brow she answered, perplexed, “Okay, but…”

            Natalie stopped her before she could ask, “Please, trust me okay. I don’t want Nick to know… yet.”

            Shrugging her shoulders, Grace took the roses and carried them back towards her desk, “All right.”

            Grabbing her coat she made her way out of the morgue, as she passed by Grace she quickly called over her shoulder, “I’m going to lunch.”

            Watching her friend exit the doors Grace inhaled the roses. Sighing she sat back down at her desk, wishing that she would meet someone that would send her some roses. Grinning she had a good guess as to who Natalie was going to spend her lunch with and was happy that Nat was finally moving on from Nick. It was his own fault that she was going to find love with someone else. Grace had a good feeling about this mystery man. As long as he made her happy, Natalie deserved some happiness.

 

 

            The club was crowded, young bodies writhing together in sync with the music. Natalie looked very out of place, dressed in her dark blue business jacket over her cream silk shirt, short skirt and heels. Fearing that she would lose her courage, she pushed herself to move forward through the crowd, who amazingly cleared away from her as she moved through. Thinking it odd, but not dwelling on it, she approached the back where she knew the offices to be.

            She paused, through the large glass within the sound booth sat Lucien LaCroix, his lips almost touching the microphone as he spoke to his listeners. His stoic countenance belaying nothing as he sensed her approach, he continued his monologue, getting the tape that he had prerecorded just for the off chance that she would be coming by. Though his expression did not show his inner thoughts his eyes sparkled with a knowing smirk.

            Natalie was beginning to have second thoughts, hell, she had a million thoughts as to why this was a bad idea. The one thing that she could no longer deny within herself was that she wanted him, wanted to feel his touch, his caresses, those amazing lips of his against her skin, and the thought of belonging to him, of being possessed by him thrilled her. She had to know the truth before she could give in to her desire for him though. She could not walk into this knowing that he was using her to get at Nick. Natalie Lambert would not be some piece to play on an eight hundred and something year old debt.

            As his cool blue eyes looked up and locked with hers, she had to swallow down that fire that his one gaze burned into her. Watching him, she did not move from her spot. Her eyes following him as he moved with fluid grace towards the door, the door that would lead him to her.

            Stepping from his private studio he immediately locked eyes with hers, the turmoil raging within her easily sensed through the link that he now shared with her. Gently taking her hand in his, LaCroix brought it up to his lips and kissed her delicate fingers.

            Natalie could not control the shudder of desire that went up through her spine as his lips made contact with her fingers. This was not going to be easy, as she needed to talk to him but was feeling the overwhelming urge to pounce on him and have her way with him. She could feel herself tremble at the thought but set her shoulders straight and did not look away from his gaze as she told him, “We need to talk.”

            His eyes never left hers as he smoothly answered, “Indeed, let us take this into my private office.”

            She said nothing in reply only allowed him to maneuver her through the back hall and through a door. She had been in this office before, the last time being when Janette had owned it.

            Entering the back office LaCroix let go of her hand and turned towards her as he leaned back against the desk. Hands gripping the edge of the desk he looked over her attire approvingly before resting upon her eyes, “You have questions?”

            Natalie had to force herself not to turn and run, to hold her ground and not allow him to intimidate her or seduce her with those wonderful eyes of his. Damn! She needed to focus!

Biting the inside of her cheek she inhaled deeply before she asked, “Why are you doing this to me?” she wanted to scream at how weak and pathetic her voice sounded just then.

His gaze never wavered, “And just what is it that I am doing to you ma cherie?”

She looked away, “Nick told me about this link. I just need to know… Was what we shared that night about some debt with Nick or was it because…?” she could not bring herself to finish the last part of her question.

He sighed, but made no move towards her, she would take it as a sign of him using her desires for him in order to persuade her to give into him, “Contrary to what Nicholas believes the universe does not revolve around him. I have already told you what I think of you whether you choose to believe it or not is something entirely up to you.”

Natalie looked to him with a sideways glance, “I don’t know what to believe.”

At this he did move towards her but did not touch. Standing before her he waited for her to raise her head to meet his gaze before his rich voice filled her ears, “What is it that you want, Natalie? Look deep within yourself and tell me what it is that you want.”

Lips suddenly feeling dry, her tongue darted out nervously wetting them before she answered, “I want,” she faltered. What did she want? She wanted him but she sure as hell was not about to tell him that.

He stepped closer, his hand lightly brushing up against the side of her cheek causing her eyes to close from the feather light touch. He knew exactly what she wanted but he would wait until she voiced it, no matter how much he desired her at the moment.

The light touch of the back of his hand against her cheek was her undoing. Eyes closing she breathed in deeply, “Lucien,” he smiled at the use of his first name. Struggling for control she kept her eyes closed as the words spilled from her lips, “I want you Lucien but is it because of this link, are you making me feel this?”

Leaning in closer, his lips a scant millimeter from hers, he answered, “I do have a link now that I have taken your blood but I have done nothing to influence you. Do you find it hard to believe that I desire you, that I have grown to admire and respect you, that I want you? I have forced nothing upon you Natalie. As you remember, I had, several times, asked you if you wanted to stop. Do you want me to stop Natalie? Tell me that you want nothing more of me that you wish for your life to return to what it was before that wondrous night when we found heights of passion within each others embrace.”

Damn the vampire! If he was lying to her…so help her she was going to stake him to the roof and let the sun turn him to dust! Senses inflamed, her desire for him building since that night, she leaned forward and kissed him with a passion she did not know she was capable of, her hands clinging to his shoulders as her body pressed against his.

The passion flooding through his link with her combined with the ferocity of her kiss LaCroix’s arms wrapped around her, reveling in the feel of her body so enticingly pressed against him. So aroused by her actions was he that his fangs almost dropped but he kept them sheathed. Moving his lips from hers he tasted the salty taste of her chin down to the enticing curve of her throat as he backed her up against the wall.

As soon as he pressed her against the wall, his body pressed against hers as he kissed her mercilessly, Natalie gasped out in pleasurable surprise. Automatically her legs wrapped around his waist as she clung desperately to him, her body crying out for his touch.

His hands moved over the silk shirt that kept his hands from her heated flesh. In an instant he rectified that as his hands slipped within, the buttons on her shirt easily snapped as they popped from the fabric and fell unnoticed to the floor. Pleased to see that the bra clasp was in the front, he freed her ample breast for his eyes to devour before his lips followed suit.

Head tilted back into the wall Natalie moaned out his name, her fingers running through his short crop of blond hair. Need for his skin to be touching against hers she fumbled with the buttons of his shirt and almost let out a moan of protest as he pulled back from her but that moan of protest became a moan of satisfaction as he stripped himself of his shirt and went back to fondling her breasts.

Her skin was so soft and warm, the sweet smell of her desire inflaming his own desire for her. LaCroix relished the feel of her skin against his, her hands as they moved over his shoulders and back. He smirked in amusement as her hands started to fumble with the buckle of his belt. A low husky chuckled escaped his lips as she growled in frustration.

“In a hurry?” he purred.

Her reply was to pull his face up towards her and hungrily kissing him. Their tongues danced, each relishing in the taste of the other. Natalie moaned again as she felt his hands stroking her thighs causing her skirt to rise up. God, how he drove her insane with desire and passion!

Natalie smiled in satisfaction against his lips as she was finally able to unfasten the buckle of his belt and pulled, freeing him of the bothersome garment. Fingers deafly fumbled with his button and then fly. She felt his low moan against her tongue as her hand reached down, her fingers dancing over the smooth velvety skin of his sex.

He would have rather that they continued this within his quarters but he knew that there was no way that either one of them would be making it that far, at least not this round. Hands moving over her skin he freed her of her undergarments, pushing her skirt further up her thighs in order to expose her womanhood to his reach.

Reaching for her hands he forced them to his shoulders, “Do not let go.”

Too overwhelmed to recognize that it was an order and not a request she did as she was bid, the feel of his lips against her breast once again making her crazy with need. She cried out as he nipped her nipple then gasped in rapt pleasure as his tongue lapped over her stinging and heated flesh. 

Positioning himself he slowly lowered her hips, slowly easing himself within her. He groaned with pleasure as he entered her heated and tight canal.

Natalie dug her nails into his shoulder as she moaned deep within her throat as he was entering her. God she could die like this and damn would that be the way to go! Legs tightening around his waist she pushed down against him as she felt the need for more of him to fill her.

Teeth grazing her collarbone he moaned low in his throat, to Natalie’s ears it sounded almost like a purr. She grinned as she thought of him as a big black panther. Lifting her from the wall he moved them towards his desk. Supporting her with one arm he swept his other over the desk clearing it so that he could lay her on top of it, papers and other items clanking and pounding onto the floor.

Natalie gasped in surprise at this sudden change of positions and smiled in amusement as she mentally noted what she was doing and where. There was another fantasy that she was playing out and boy was it far better in reality than in her dreams.

Hips thrust into hers with a ferocity but controlled in order not to harm her. She met each thrust with a thrust of her own, her body glistening with perspiration. Biting her lower lip as she felt herself rising on currents of desire the back of her mind noted that she was going to be very late on getting back to work from her ‘lunch’ break. But as passions rose and that wonderful feel of his shaft entering and brushing against her g-spot caused her to not give a damn.

The feel of her surrounding him and writhing underneath him was enough to cause his fangs to drop and gold flecks to appear within his blue eyes. He could hear her heart racing, the blood flowing, and his eyes fixated upon the vein within her throat. She smelled of roses and honeysuckle and the scent was enough to raise his hunger for her blood. What he did note that it was not only hunger for blood but a hunger for her. There had been only one that had affected him so. Natalie did hold light but she also held a darkness that balanced that light, she would make an excellent addition to his family or as a mate.

Moving within her he groaned in satisfaction, pleased when he watched her tilting her head to the side in invitation. Ah, but he could wait a few more strokes to prolong their coupling before he would taste of her sweet elixir. 

Natalie’s nails dug into his back as she hung at that precipice, so close to the edge but not quiet over it. Lucien’s name whimpered from her lips as she yearned yet wanted to prolong their sweet release. There was a wildness within both of their passions that was not present that last time that they had sex and she found that the excitement of it aroused her even more. As the pleasure continued to rack her senses rising higher and higher she was distantly aware of the amount of control he was showing. Though this time it was more wild and fierce he was still being gentle so as not to harm her and with his strength that was a definite possibility. He could kill her in an instant but something inside her being told her that he would not.

His eyes now glowed amber, his fangs itching to pierce her flesh and drink of her essence, to strengthen his link to her and be one with her. There would be no turning back if he proceeded with what he was planning and he knew that she would not be at all pleased if he did it without her consent.

Unable to resist the pull to her blood he called out her name before rearing back his head and sheathing his fangs into her flesh. Hot sweet ambrosia engulfed his tongue, sliding down his throat and his mind touched hers. He was asking her permission, explaining to her of what it meant. That if they shared blood they would be forever linked, that he would not bring her across until she requested it of him but that he wanted this so that he could be closer to her and she him.

As she raced beyond the precipice her body was racked with pleasure beyond any she had ever known. With her climax came that pleasurable bite of his at the base of her neck where shoulder met neck. She could feel his mind brushing against hers, his thoughts speaking to her, asking her for something. Oh god! This was the most intimate thing she had ever experienced and what he was telling her did sound appealing but scared her. Hell, she had gone this far, why the hell not! It was not as if she never thought of coming across but she knew that she was not yet ready for that and what he proposed to her held a certain appeal.

Sensing her decision he unsheathed his fangs from her flesh his eyes sparkling with satisfaction and pleasure. As his eyes locked with her passion filled ones he ran a fingernail across his throat, dark rich blood forming in its wake.

She watched him with desire, passion, and need. As his fingernail passed across the base of his throat she watched fascinated as his dark rich blood slowly pooled there. Natalie had the urge to lean forward, her curiosity at its peek. What would he taste like? Am I really going to do this? Leaning towards him, her lips kissing his self inflicted wound as her tongue raced out to taste him she knew her answer to be yes.

As soon as she began to suckle at his throat she felt his arms that surrounded her tightening slightly, the moan of satisfaction and pleasure escaping his lips. That sound alone urged her to continue. The taste of him was amazing; nothing at all what she would think that blood would taste like. It was hot, sweet, and satisfying.

His eyes closed as soon as he felt her lips and tongue at his throat. LaCroix was beside himself in pleasure. This wonderful woman would be his undoing he wanted her so much! He could feel their bond growing, her passion for him moving him in a way that no other ever had. He wanted so much to bring her across but he would wait for when she was ready. He would not make another mistake like he had done with Nicholas; he would not spend an eternity trying to persuade her to accept the vampire.

Natalie shook as a pulse of something hit her hard and then she was one with his thoughts, his desires. He really did want her and not because of some ancient debt from Nick. He was being patient with her and would not force her to decide on coming across. That revelation alone caused her feelings for this vampire to grow even more. It was in that moment that she knew… she was falling in love with him.

Fingers tightening on his shoulders she knew that Nick was no longer the one that she desired in this way. She still loved Nick but more so as a brother and friend. Her heart swelled as she felt Lucien’s pleasure and need for her. She wanted this moment to last forever but all to soon felt him pulling her away from that wonderful taste of him.

Panting she looked up to him, their eyes locking and an agreement and understanding spoken between them within that one gaze. Her eyes closed again as she felt him caress her cheek, then his lips caressing her lips softly as if a feather. Natalie wrapped her arms around his neck burring her head within his shoulder as she breathed in the scent that was uniquely LaCroix.

He sighed in satisfaction, knowing that he was going to have to deal with his son’s reactions to this. Nicholas could be so tiresome. His son would have to accept it; he had no choice. Holding her within his arms he brushed back her mused hair from her face, stroking the softness of her cheek a smile upon his lips.

Eyes fluttering back open she returned his smile and then noticed the disaster area that was once his office. A laugh escaping her lips she tilted her head to the side, regarding this vampire that had captured her heart, “That was amazing but I don’t think the office survived.”

Grinning a chuckled rumbled deep within his throat, Natalie decided that she loved that sound, “Nothing that can not be repaired ma cherie but let us move to someplace a little more comfortable.”

She returned his grin, “Well I definitely don’t think I’m going to make it back to the office then.” Her expression turned to that of worry, “Um, how exactly do we get there? My clothes didn’t exactly survive. That was one of my favorite shirts you know.”

Pulling himself up and her with him he raised that infamous eyebrow, “Easily replaced and as to getting to someplace more comfortable, I have living quarters upstairs.”

Leaning forward she kissed him passionately and as she pulled away she pulled at his bottom lip before releasing him. “What are we waiting for then?” she asked him with a soft dark voice.

Eyes flashing hungrily he swept her up into his arms and they were quickly upstairs within his bedroom. Lips passionately devouring the other he laid her gently onto his bed, his hands discarding her garments to the floor as were his own. A repeat performance was definitely in order.

 

**

A/N: The poem used within this chapter, “A White Rose” is by John Boyle O’Reilly and I take no credit for its existence. It does however make a rather good insert into this story.

**

 

Chapter Nine

 

Life has a strange way of changing on you when you least expect it to. One day everything is normally dull, a routine, but then suddenly it all changes. Smiling, Natalie rubbed her check against Lucian’s firm chest. What had been intended as confronting the ancient vampire had turned into something far beyond what she had expected. Lying within his arms, enjoying the afterglow of a full night, or shall she say, morning, of lovemaking she was well spent and happily content. Her mind refused to think of other things outside of being within in his arms.

            Right now, at this moment, the outside world did not matter. Feeling his eyes concentrating on her, Natalie raised her head, resting her chin upon his chest.

            He watched her, aware of her warm naked body pressed against his, and the emotions coming from their strengthened link. As she rested her chin upon his chest, he gently pushed back her rumpled curly main of brown hair, his blue eyes looking deeply within hers.

            Eyes focusing on his, Natalie reached up, her fingers tracing his pronounced jaw. She could sense his pleasure within his eyes as he gazed within hers. A grin formed on his handsome lips as he caught her hand in his and brought her open palm up to his lips.

            “So beautiful,” he purred against her palm Natalie noticing a gleam of possessiveness within his gaze.

            The look within his gaze excited her, enflaming her passions and desire for more of him. She had never been this sexually hungry in her life and it seemed as if nothing could saturate her desire for him. Natalie Lambert was hooked on Lucian LeCroix, the thought of it made her eyes sparkle with humor.

            LeCroix chuckled deeply at the rising passion he could sense from her, “I’d be more than happy to satisfy your desire for more of me, ma cherie, but am afraid that it could prove fatal to your health. Unless you wish for me to bring you across.”

            She buried the side of her face within his chest, her face flushing crimson, well as much as her blood deprived body would allow. God, how many times had he taken her blood? Deciding that he needed to hear her reply she answered, “I’m… I’m not ready for that yet. I’m not sure that I… I need time to think about it.”

            His arms tightened around her, “I will not force the issue upon you Natalie, you know that.”

            She squeezed back, “I know.”

            “Natalie?” he called her name and waited for her to turn her gaze towards him, “You might want to avoid Nicholas for a few days.”

            Her eyes closed at this, as she breathed in deeply before letting the air escape her lips in a deep sigh, “He’s not going to take this well is he?”

            It was a topic that they could not avoid and needed to be discussed for LeCroix was sure that Nicholas would most definitely be angered and outraged by Natalie’s growing relationship with him. He would have to handle the situation with care, “No, he will not.”

            A fear gripped her, as she knew it to be true. What would he do once he found out? She had seen Nick angry before and knew the power of the vampire. Would he lose control and go after LeCroix or worse would he hurt her in a fit of rage? She remembered all to clearly how he had grabbed her arms painfully, not even aware of how he was hurting her until she cried out in pain.

            LeCroix could sense her worry with a tinge of fear, “Do not fear my dear, I will speak with him and he will accept this. I will not let any harm befall you. Not now and not ever.”

            Her brow furrowed, she was all too aware of how their conversations ended up, and there usually always was some amount of bloodshed, “Promise me that you wont hurt him. This will be a emotional blow to him as it is.”

            LeCroix sighed, knowing Nicholas he would not allow him to keep such a promise, “Natalie, I will try not to allow it to end in violence but if Nicholas chooses to make it so then I will do what is necessary.”

            Sitting up, Natalie turned away from him, pulling the sheets up over her naked chest. Sighing, she tried to hold back the tears that threatened to fall but was unsuccessful as one traitorous tear escaped and ran down her cheek. Angrily she whipped it away, “He’ll never forgive me, will he?”

            LeCroix sat up and pulled her back against his chest as he kissed her temple, wrapping his arms around her waist, “Yes, he will. He had his chance with you but allowed it to drift away. He has no one to blame but himself. Do you regret your decision to be with me, Natalie?”

            At this, she turned towards him, her eyes searching his as she answered, “Do you really have to ask? Of coarse I don’t. I love Nick but I’m in love with you.” God, did she just tell him she loved him? Natalie looked away then, afraid of his reaction to her words.

            His eyes of blue closed at her words, he could feel with their new link that she indeed was in love with him. How could she be in so short of time? But, what he sensed from her he could not deny. Did he return that emotion? He cared for her, she was fascinating, intelligent, passionate, and stirred emotions long ago thought dead. So many times had he told Nicholas that their kind could not love.

            Seeing that she had looked away and sensing her fear of his reaction to her words, LeCroix gently tugged at her chin until she lifted her eyes to meet his, “How can you be in love with me so soon?”

            Trembling slightly she knew it was no use in holding back anything, it was all or nothing, “I don’t know but I do.”

            A small smile creased his lips before he leaned over and kissed her gently, “I have existed 2000 years and have long believed that love was not possible. I will not lie to you my dear, I find you a beautiful, alluring, complicated, intelligent, and passionate woman. I feel protective of you and care for you deeply but I do not know if my heart is capable of such an emotion as of love.”

            Natalie returned his smile, her hand caressing his cheek, “I think that you are, Lucian. I will not believe that you are incapable of love. You have just spent too many long centuries keeping your heart buried and protected against others. All I ask is that you allow me to try and reach that part of yourself, allow me to love you and maybe in time you will return that love.”

            An emotion foreign to him pierced his heart like a stake at those words. She was stunning, and her heart was unlike any he had ever known. Could she awake the emotion of love within him?

            Leaning forward he kissed her passionately, his hands tangling within her hair. After a long moment of devouring her lips and the inside of her hot mouth he pulled away his eyes burning into hers, “If there is anyone capable of such a feet I believe that it is you. You’re an amazing woman Natalie and I look forward to getting to know more of you.”

            She smiled to him, too breathless to speak. Natalie started to feel fatigue from the busy night of lovemaking and the amount of blood loss. Leaning into him, she wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her head within the crook of his neck.

            Sensing her fatigue, LeCroix lay back, pulling her with him as he spoke softly against the top of her head, “Rest, ma cherie. You need to regain your strength.”

            Not fighting his suggestion, Natalie allowed her eyes to close and drifted off almost immediately to sleep.

 

 

 

            He stood there before Grace’s desk, an annoyed and frustrated expression on his pale face. Leaning forward, resting his hands on the desk he caught her gaze, her heartbeat echoing within as he pulled her in, “Where did Natalie go?”

            She wanted to throttle him, tell him that he had his chance and blew it but as her eyes locked with his she felt herself drifting, her mind fogging. With emotionless voice she answered, “Lunch.”

            Aggravated with her answer he asked another question, “When will she be back?”

            “Wont be back, wasn’t feeling well,” she answered.

            His grip tightened against the edge of the desk, “Did anything happen before she left?” at this she looked to him without response. Frustrated he tried another question, “Did Natalie receive anything before she left?”

            “Roses and a note,” came her reply.

            He felt a sinking sensation within, “Who was it from?”

            “Lucian,” she answered.

            “I was not here. You felt a headache and laid your head down and fell asleep. Now sleep.” As soon as he instructed her to sleep she crumbled forwards, head resting on her folded arms on the desk.

            Quickly he left the building, anger filling his being. He had warned Natalie to stay away from his Sire, she knew he was dangerous and yet she went to see him. Making his way to the dark alley of the building he looked to the sky and flew towards the Raven. He had to save her from making the biggest mistake of her life.

 

 

            His dark blue eyes gazed at the sleeping form in his arms. She was a lovely creature and he was looking forward to the day when he would bring her across. When making love to her, he had to hold a part of himself in check almost constantly, making sure that his lust for her would not overrun his control. That was one of the facets that Nicholas could never achieve, hence why he always killed those mortals that he ended up bedding.

            LeCroix wanted to lose himself within her arms, drink her blood without the danger of killing her. Most of all he wanted her to drink of him, to feel her fangs sink within his flesh and to draw upon his blood. The connection that they now shared was not enough. He wanted the connection that came with bringing someone across.

            When drinking from her it was like the sweetest ambrosia, she had so much potential waiting to be released. Her beauty would be intensified as a vampire. He wanted to show her everything, share everything with her as she discovered herself along the way.

            A faint glimmer of awareness fluttered through his link with his son. Inwardly sighing, he moved from Natalie’s arms, careful to make sure that she would not awaken. She was in a deep sleep and he hoped that he would be able to make his son leave without waking her in the process. As usual his son had impeccable timing. 

 

 

Chapter Ten

 

The air beat furiously against his face, the bitter coldness of it never registering with his consciousness. There was one thing on his mind and that was to get to Nat before it was too late. There was a voice in the back of his head telling him that he was most probably too late, but he refused to acknowledge it.

            Silently, with the stealth that all vampires naturally possessed, Nick touched down within the dark alley beside the Raven. Avoiding the crowded dance floor of the Raven, Nick made his way to the side door where he slammed opened the door, neither bothering nor caring to be gentle. He was furious and the vampire and man within him demanded retribution. His Sire had promised that he would not meddle with his friends; he should have known that that would not have lasted.

            Practically flying up the stairs, he almost wrenched the door off of its hinges as he stormed into LeCroix’s apartment. He paused for a moment at the sight before him.

            Sitting calmly within his chair, LeCroix held a glass of his finest vintage within his hand, one leg crossed over the other as he looked to his son with a neutral expression, “Really Nicholas, such disrespect for ones property.”

            A fierce growl escaped his throat just before he struck. In a flash of an instant Nick was across the room, grabbing his sire by the collar before slamming him up against the wall. Eye’s amber in anger he hissed, “Where is she?”
            Cool blue orbs looked calmly from amber eyes down towards the white knuckled hands that were clenching his black shirt as he calmly stated, “I advise, that you think, for once in your life, before you act.”

            Nick could sense the underline threat within his words, the cool countenance not at all showing the anger and rage that boiled just bellow the surface. He knew that he was treading on dangerous ground but he had to protect Natalie. Nick made a very big mistake; he did not let go of his grip.

            Overwhelming power of the ancient vampire invaded his senses and in an instant he was no longer the one holding the other against the wall. Instead he was pinned helplessly against the wall by a very powerful LeCroix.

            “Natalie is perfectly safe. She came to me of her own free will and what transpires between her and I is none of your concern!” his voice was cold and devoid of emotion, a sure sign that he was indeed furious.

            Nick tried to fight against LeCroix’s hold on him but the power that now swept throughout the room was almost suffocating in its intensity. Slowly his eyes faded from amber to gold, his body yielding slightly against his father’s hold, as he softly growled, “I will not let you hurt her.”

            LeCroix’s brow arched at this and he released his son, allowing him to drop to the floor in a helpless heap. Looking down at Nicholas with his normal expression, he spoke as if nothing had just transpired between them but his power was still thick within the air, “Natalie is in no danger from me, she is under my protection.”

            Nick did not believe him and practically snorted, “I find that hard to believe.”

            At this, LeCroix’s eyes narrowed, his eyes flashing gold for a millisecond, the only indication of his anger. He was beyond anger and once again Nick found himself pinned against the wall his sire’s face mere inches from his as he hissed, “Believe it Nicholas! I do not lie.”

            His hands gripped at LeCroix’s in a vain attempt to fight the master vampires hold, but to no avail. Nick was of no mach to his Sire, especially with the fact that his ‘eating’ habits for the past century has been mostly steer blood. Knowing that it was of no use to fight, he slackened his resistance to his ‘father’s’ hold lowering his eyes in submission. LeCroix was right, he had never lied to him, though in the past he had allowed certain information to leak out to him but only enough so to lead him on in the wrong direction or to manipulate him into actions his Sire wished for him to take.

            Arching his brow, LeCroix was surprised that his son had backed down so easily. Releasing his hold on Nicholas he stepped back, his mind probing his son’s for any deception. Finding none, he made his way back to where he had left his bloodwine never once turning his back on his son.

            In a much calmer voice, though his anger towards his Sire was still boiling, he asked once again, “Where is she?”

            Taking a sip, LeCroix eyed his son before answering, “She is resting in my bed and I would appreciate that you leave.”

            Nick flinched mentally at the mention of her being in his Sire’s bed. By the tone of LeCroix’s voice, Nick knew that this was not a request but a demand for him to obey. Still he would not leave until he was absolutely sure of Natalie’s safety.

Shoulders and head held straight, Nick persisted, “Not until I am sure of her safety.”

            LeCroix glared, his promise to Natalie about trying to not harm Nicholas threatening to be broken. The silence in the air was palpable, LeCroix’s power intensifying. His attention to Nicholas was however distracted as he sensed Natalie waking and making her way into the room.

 

            She had heard voices in the other room and could sense LeCroix’s growing anger and aggravation. Still a bit weak from the exertions of the night and morning, but in a good way, she stumbled to the door and listened. She had a feeling as to who the other person in the room was. Squaring her shoulders she opened the bedroom door that led to the living room.            

            Both occupants within the room gazed towards the opening door. LeCroix immediately went to her before Nicholas could, “My dear, you should be resting.”

            Natalie smiled warmly at LeCroix’s concern; placing her hand against the side of his face she kissed him lightly upon his lips before turning towards her friend. She at least prayed that they could remain so, but as she turned and seeing the stunned hurt look upon Nick’s face she felt her heart constrict. She could literally see the heartbreak within his eyes.

            Making sure that her voice was controlled and steady she pushed back the pain that she felt for causing Nick’s now broken heart, “Hello Nick.”

            Nick swallowed hard, the reality of the situation fully hitting him upon seeing his Natalie, though seeing her now he knew that to not be true. He had lost his love. LeCroix had won.

Quickly he hardened his features, his heart, the pain that was threatening to fill his heart and soul being repressed. To allow it to surface now would only cause him to crumble and lose total control.

Nodding his head once he coldly replied, “Natalie.”

            Before she could approach him in anyway, to try and explain, ‘Oh hell, how do I do that? Sorry Nick but I’m with LeCroix now. So, ya still wanna be friends?’, she watched him turn stiffly around and walk out of the room. Seeing the look within his eyes, the way he had acted and the stiff way in which he had left, she knew that she had ruined any hopes of saving the friendship that she had for so long cherished.

            In that instant of realization, her heart literally broke, the tears in her eyes silently building. She felt guilty, ashamed. Could she have handled this differently?

            Feeling her turmoil, her pain, LeCroix wordlessly pulled her into his arms and held her as she cried. Though she was in love with him now, she still loved Nicholas and he did not like to see her hurting.

She could not deal with this right now; she felt mentally and physically drained of all of her strength and leaned on Lucian for support. Right now he was all that she had, the only true friend and companion that she could count on. Maybe in time Nick would forgive her, she feared though that he would not.

 

 

He was in a daze, as he stood within the living room of his loft. How he had gotten there, he was not sure. Seeing the couch before him, the memory of movie nights with Natalie came to mind. The time that they had spent within each other’s presence, always in friendship though he always wanted more but too afraid for her safety to act upon his desires for her.

The wall that he had placed before his emotions crumbled, the agony of loss hitting him full force. Eyes shifting from gold to red he roared his anguish and stormed to the couch tossing it as if it were a mere piece of paper. Not satisfied with this little bit of destruction, he went about the rest of the loft destroying anything within his path.

Finally spent emotionally and physically with exhaustion, Nick tore the door from the fridge, not caring that he had literally ripped it from its hinges. Fiercely pushing back the bottles of steer he immediately went to his stash of the Raven’s human vintage.

Grabbing the bottle, his extended fangs tore into the cork pulling it out before he unceremoniously spit it out across the floor. Sliding down onto the kitchen floor, he upended the bottle and drank, leaning his head against the edge of the fridge. What was the use of finding the cure now? He felt as if all was lost. Without her what was the point of trying?

He tore into the other bottle as the image of Natalie came to mind, the way she had entered the room and kissed LeCroix before turning her eyes towards him. Forcing the bloodwine down his throat, he didn’t even taste it. Almost choking with his anguish he pulled the bottle away and glared at it before throwing the bottle against the wall. As it smashed against the wall he watched in detachment as the glass shattered noisily, blood smearing against the wall, red against white, as it slowly trickled down to the floor. Blood tears forming within his eyes he buried his head within his hands and wept.

 

Chapter Eleven

 

 

The peaceful blackness of sleep, when you are at that point in which the dreams had stopped and you still have yet to wake, she felt herself rising out of the darkness. Blinking back the sleep from her eyes she became aware of lying on a cool chest, strong arms rapped around her. Feeling a brush of something soft against her mind she turned her face upward and saw Lucian watching her with an expression half concern and half admiration. She had a suspicion that not many had ever seen such expressions upon his being.

            Licking her dry lips she smiled, “Good morning or is it evening?”

            Brushing a disheveled curl from her eyes the side of his lips turned upward into a grin, “Good evening.”

            Her smile and feeling of peace soon faded, the memory of what had taken place right before she had cried herself to sleep. Closing her eyes she rested the side of her cheek upon his chest, “I’ve broken his heart haven’t I?”

            His arms tightened slightly around her, as he softly answered, “Yes, but it was inevitable. You have done nothing wrong Natalie, do not blame yourself.”

            “Lucian?” looking up at him she paused a moment before continuing, “I need to talk to him. I want him to understand.”

            LeCroix sighed, “Natalie, I do not think it wise right now. He has just found out that he has lost you to me. Give him some time and allow him to come to you.”

            Natalie bit the inside of her cheek in a moment of reflection before she nodded, he was right she needed to give him some time to come to terms with this himself. Leaning her head back against his chest she began to draw imaginary circles, a small smile starting to play at the corners of her lips as her fingers rose up towards his nipples. They hardened instantly as soon as she had touched them.

            Placing a small kiss upon his chest she softly said, “You’re right. Want to distract me from dwelling on it?” she asked from under half lowered lids, a smile curling up at the contours of her mouth.

            A deep throaty chuckle escaped his lips right before Natalie found herself on her back gazing up into his mesmerizing blue eyes, just a small glint of amber at its center. Licking his lips in anticipated pleasure, he purred, “Why, my dear, it would be my pleasure.”

            She could not help but to grin from ear to ear, her heart pounding in anticipation. The grin quickly disappeared into a silent O as his lips descended and pressed against her collarbone. Her back arched as his hands and mouth moved down towards her breast, the feel of his lips and teeth teasing and caressing her causing her to squirm from underneath him. She wanted a distraction and he was definitely distracting her from any type of coherent thought.

            LeCroix smiled in satisfaction against her warm skin as he heard her moan his name, it was like listening to the sweetest music. Oh, how he hungered for her! He was glad that he left her while she slept to feed before returning to her before she began to wake. Wrapping his tongue around her tightened rosy peek, he sucked it into his mouth in between his teeth flicking his tongue back and forth causing her to call out his name in throaty pleasure.

            His tongue was maddening against her skin, sending a red-hot burning through her core. Her hand wove into his short-cropped blond hair, the other running down the smooth cool skin of his muscular back. Feeling his hand drop down to tease her in that wonderful place between her thighs, her pelvis jerked upward against his skilled hand.

            “Oh Lucian!” she moaned loudly.

            Keeping his hand between her legs, he stroked her slowly feeling that she was more than ready for his entry, LeCroix’s mouth moved up towards her mouth. As his tongue delved into her hot and inviting mouth, he replaced his fingers with his large member, entering her in one powerful stroke.

            Returning his deepened kiss she gasped out in pleasured surprise as she felt him enter her. Oh, she had never felt so filled! Her fingers, which were pressing against his back, tightened, her nails scratching against his back sending a trail of blood in its wake.

            LeCroix’s head tilted back in pleasure as her nails raked down his back, the smell of his own blood meeting his senses. Immediately, his fangs erupted from his gums, his eyes burning deep gold. Moving out of her slowly until he was almost completely out of her he slammed into her, a scream of pleasure escaping his and her lips.

            Looking down at her, he watched her eyes darken with pleasure. There was no fear within her gaze, only love and complete admiration. It warmed his cold heart. Leaning back he pulled her with him as he turned so that she was now on top, a wicked grin spreading upon his lips.

            Fingers caressing her thighs, his voice escaped huskily, making the heat of passion rise within her, “Touch yourself. Let me see your passion my Natalie.”

            Her face flushed, she had never had anyone request that of her and felt self-conscious. Feeling his mind touching her, urging her on, she moved her hands to her breast, her hips rocking slowly back and forth as his hands pushed her body up and then slowly back down his thick shaft.

            Watching his reaction, she felt powerful seeing the way that she affected him. He was watching her with amber eyes, she could sense the way her movements were affecting him. At the feel of him moving inside of her, she squeezed her breasts, no longer able to keep her eyes open as they fell closed and her head leaned back. Natalie groaned as she felt the added sensation of his fingers moving against her clit in slow circular motions.

            Imagining that her hands were his, she squeezed and pinched her nipples then slowly outlined her rosy peeks with her fingers. Her body felt on fire as she felt her self rising higher and higher. Moaning deep within her throat, she bit her lower lip, “Lucian, you feel so good inside me! You fill me so completely!”

            Watching her movements, the way she touched herself combined with the feel of her tight hot core surrounding him, was maddening. She was a Goddess! Her face was glowing with passion, her body perfection. Touching her, he added to her pleasure and as she spoke to him, her voice sounding throaty and teasingly sensual, he would not be able to hold back much longer.

            Flipping them both over he kept his movements slow and steady, keeping the rhythm as he replaced her hands with his, “Ah, mon déesse, vous-éttes trés beau! Ouvre pour moi. <Ah, my Goddess, you are so beautiful! Bloom for me.>”

            Natalie gripped his strong arms; her head tilting back against the pillows. Oh God, she was not going to be able to hold out much longer. His voice alone was enough to push her to the point where she felt as if she were about to explode. She never wanted this to end!

Seeing her eyes close, LeCroix caressed her cheek, “Look at me Natalie. I want to watch the passion within your eyes.”

At his request, her eyes opened, darkened with passion. She could see him holding back, his eyes flecked with crimson. He was waiting for her to reach her peak and he was not going to have long to wait. Eyes widening she cried out, her fingers digging into his strong arms, “Lucian, please!” she wanted to feel his mind within hers.

Her eyes captivated him, he could sense her rising to her peak and as she bloomed before him, her voice pleading, he increased his tempo thrusting deep within her. With a guttural growl, he felt his hunger rise and as she pleaded with him he could hold back no longer. Fierce, he struck, his fangs piercing her soft warm flesh. As soon as her blood poured forth into his mouth, LeCroix felt himself reach his own peak and exploded within her.

Drinking in her blood, he only took a mouth full. Licking the wound closed to stop the flow of blood, he thrust one more time before he had fully emptied into her womb.

Pulling himself off of her, so as not to crush her with his weight, he pulled her with him engulfing her within his embrace. Kissing her deeply he sighed with contentment, it had been so long since he had felt this fulfilled. Ah, what they were to share when he brought her across!

Holding him with all she had, Natalie never thought she could feel this wonderful. That was the best climax that she had as of yet, it seemed that each time they made love it just got better and better. He made her feel so complete. For the first time in a long time she actually felt beautiful.

Regaining her breath, she smiled against his chest, “Wow!”

A deep chuckled rumbled through his chest, she could feel the vibration against her cheek, “Imagine that twenty times as intense.”

Her eyes widened at this as she looked up into his dark blue eyes, “You’re kidding, I’d pass out!”

Tapping her nose with his finger, his eyes twinkled with amusement, “Being a vampire does have its benefits.”

Her eyes sparkled with happiness, “I’m sure it does.” She bit her lower lip, “Lucian… it’s just that…”

His fingers pressed against her lips, stopped her from continuing, “I know, Natalie. You do not have to explain yourself to me. Blood does not lie. I will wait as long as you wish me too.”

Rubbing her check against his, she softly spoke, “Can we just stay here and never get out of bed? I don’t even think that I will be able to walk right for a few days.”

LeCroix grinned, “Ah, what a grand idea! Though I think that a hot bath is in order.”

Rising from the bed, Natalie watched, as he made for the bathroom fully naked, he called over his shoulder, “Wait for my return.”

With the view he presented, she was all too happy to lay back and wait for his return. Damn, he had a body to die for! Not long after he disappeared into the bathroom she could hear the water running. A nice hot bath with Lucian sounded delightful.

 

 

 

Cloaked in darkness, he watched as the young vampire approached him. His voice rang out low and menacing, “Well? What did you find out?”

Dean cowered from the voice, he was only a fledgling and this vampire terrified him. It was the only reason why he was doing this, “The woman is with the General and his son is wallowing in self misery.”

Grabbing the fledgling by the collar, the dark haired vampire’s eyes flashed amber as he slammed him against the alley wall. Face mere inches from Dean’s, he demanded, “Did he bring her across?”

The terrified fledgling shook his head from side to side, “No, but I think he has left his mark upon her.”

The dark figures lips curved into a snarl, “She is mine!” With that, his fangs sank into the fledgling’s neck, draining the struggling vampire in seconds before ripping out the vampire’s throat. Not satisfied with his work, he finished the fledgling off with a twist, ripping its head off easily. Throwing the useless carcass down to the ground he raised his fingers up to his lips, tasting the blood that coated them.

Eyes flashing a cold amber, he stepped away from the body with a grim smile upon his lips, “You might be powerful and ancient LeCroix but power is no match for cunning. Let the games begin!”

 

 

TBC…