For Centuries - Season 2 [Completed]

Episode 4

"Joga", Bjork

I sat at the piano at the Pearl and let my fingers run on the keys to process my emotions.

Murmuring the lyrics, almost for only me to hear. And letting my voice explore the inner space I was in, with a louder cry. I missed Amaury. What was I supposed to do? Wait until he comes to his senses? I had to clear my head and think about something else.

After a song or two, Ahmed was still taking care of his chores behind the bar but he was systematically walking in front of me before changing directions and getting away. I raised my eyes from the keyboard and stopped playing. 

"Ahmed, dear, can I help you with something?" I asked.

He blushed. "No, no, nothing. Nothing."

I stared at him with more intensity. "What is it?"

I did not want to bring James into the conversation without him talking about the vampire first. Ahmed came closer and looked around as if to verify that Valentina and Anna were still on the other side of the room. "No, but I can see you have a lot on your plate, I don't want..."

I smiled. "I am fine. Tell me."

"It's about... it's about James."

"Yes. Go on."

"Well, he asked me to dance with him."

"Yes, I saw that."

"But... what do you think he meant by that?"

"You mean apart from wanting to dance with you?" I was playing with him but he was too nice to even notice it.

"Apart from that, yes. I mean, he told me I was handsome. Do you think that... I know it's going to sound stupid, because it's basically impossible, because he's an old vampire and because I'm... well I'm not, and I'm nobody, but I mean... do you think..."

"That he is interested? Yes, he is."

Ahmed's face went blank. "But... are you sure?"

"Well, I am pretty sure since he told me. And you know, James is not exactly the type to lie about this kind of thing."

"He likes me," he repeated in disbelief.

"He does. But the question is... Actually, there are two questions. First, do you like him?"

"He is pretty incredible."

"Indeed. So question 2: are you aware that dating a vampire like James has its risks?"

He frowned. "Do you think he could... kill me?"

"I really do not think so. But he could hurt you. He does not want to and I am pretty confident that he would do everything in his power to avoid that, but it is still a possibility."

"Are you telling me I should not date him?"

"I would never do that. I just want to tell you that this kind of relationship is complicated."

"I understand."

"Alright then. I wish the best of luck to both of you."

When I saw James arriving at the club, I smiled. His hair was up. He had sunglasses on, whereas there was no light at all on this winter day. And he was wearing sophisticated checked trousers and a white shirt with a brown leather jacket. The game was definitely on.

I observed the scene from a distance and could not help but notice that Ahmed was stunned. But on the other hand, James was already conquered by the tender bartender.

While I pretended to be drowned in paperwork, Ahmed pretended he had not seen James, keeping on tidying the bar. When the vampire sat in front of him and took off his sunglasses, he played the surprise with a low "Hi".

"Hi."

"I love your outfit. You look gorgeous." Realizing that he had just said that, Ahmed panicked.

"Thank you." James smiled. "I was wondering if you would have a coffee with me."

He had not even finished his sentence that Ahmed had already answered. "Yes. It would be lovely. Tomorrow I have a day off. Would it be okay with you?"

"Perfect. That's a deal then. There's this place that I love. I'll send you the address."

"Okay. Can't wait to see you tomorrow then."

As James turned away to leave the room, I went back to my papers, but as soon as he left, I walked to the counter to talk with Ahmed. "Do you need more proof that he likes you?" I said, with a smile.

"But how? I don't understand what attracts him to me."

"I see plenty of reasons why he could like you. You are a handsome, intelligent, and kind man." He blushed. "Well, again, I wish you the best."