Lady Vampire

Chapter 9: Forbidden Fruits

"My human, Hilda. Where is my human?"

Hilda and I stood at the foyer as I clutched my hands closed. This was a rare opportunity and there was no way I was going to forget about it. If I got my own personal human, I could never go hungry again. They would have less of a way to control me. I would be sane for once in my life. The pain in the bottom of my stomach, the tips of my teeth would go away. I would never mark anyone ever again and there would no longer be a need for Gabriel ever again.

Hilda gave me a side glance. She could hardly give a shit.

"Have you decided?"

"I've decided that any being will do."

"Alright. I'll have Harriet deliver someone to your room tonight." Her voice lowered to a harsh whisper as one of the servants neared. "Do not go ravenous and make a mess. It's so uncouth. If I have any reason to suspect feasting is too much for you to handle, I'll be sure to report it to your father."

I grit my teeth. "I'll try to contain myself. But it has been a while. Something about not having a drink for four months makes me hungry."

Oh, shut up. It should have been longer.

I almost gasped at her mind's words. Ever since I learned how to mind read, I have been using it on people that work around the castle. Sometimes I learn unnecessary family facts and drama, but other times, I get to hear people's opinions of me. Most were kind and thought I was pretty or intimidating. But I soon came to the realization that Hilda only thought angry things towards me. 

Though it was some what embarrassing to have people assume that I wasn't capable of having any powers, it did come in handy to use against others.

Our bickering was cut short as The Dukes of Venice entered in through the doors. Both Stewart and his father.

Stewart was dressed in a crisp eggshell white suit as was his father, who only wore a sash and a handful of gold jewelry as adornments.

"Duke Lampion. I hope you are enjoying your time here at my father's castle." He bent down to clasp my hand, bringing it to brush his lips.

"You have a wonderful home." And he let go.

I acknowledged the Grand Duke and Hilda did the same, though her cheeks were tensed in a smile. I smothered the confusion on my face.  She never behaved as such a fan. I met her eyes and she avoided my gaze from then on, folding her lips into her mouth and placing her hand behind her back.

"I was hoping, if her majesty approved of it, that you would do me the honor of gracing me with her company toady."

I glanced at Hilda, but she refrained from looking at me. This is why she had brought me out. I was to be a show pony for entertainment as the Grand Duke probably met with my father. If I did well, and he was pleased, political relations would probably go smoother.

My cheeks hurt as I did not break my smiling.

"Company such as yours would be inviting and invigorating, my good sir." Stewart nodded and bent his arm so I could latch on and follow him.

Anywhere from the strong gaze of his father sounded good to me.

I didn't let my face rest until I was out of the room. My head swiveled as I checked back.

It would be just me and Stewart from then on. I let out a sigh.

"How was your night?" Stewart stood by the pillars on the porch. We were outside below one of the biggest balconies, the air bright with moonlight. His pale skin glimmered as if he were by candlelight.