Mine to Claim

Chapter 42

"Prince Dominic is going to come to the party today," says my mother, while faffing at my hair, trying to curl them so my face looks a bit more mature. I look into the mirror where I can see my mom's nervous expression. She wants everything to go properly. If it goes nicely, he will choose me and it would be an honour to marry a Prince.

"Don't talk much, dear. Let him do the talking. Answer his questions truthfully but do not disclose your father's wealth. Or he might ask more dowry than we can afford," instructs my mom while straightening the plaits in my dress.

"Yes, mother," I whisper, trying not to pout at her words. Prince Dominic is nothing like that.

They don't know that I gave myself to Prince Dominic. They don't even know that Prince Dominic is going to ask for my hand tonight.

That's why they are trying their best to make Prince Dominic choose me. But I don't say anything. I want to look my best. Always. For my appearance will reflect on my husband and I always want to bring pride to him.

Husband.

The word sends butterflies swirling inside my stomach. It's like my dream come true. I had been crushing on prince Dominic since high school. And now that I have graduated, I can't believe that the first suitor who visited our home is him.

He even asked for my parents' blessing. Tonight, he might give the ring of engagement. I raise my hand, allowing my fingers to play in front of my eyes. They won't be bare for long. Soon!

"There. All done. You look just like a princess." My mother drops a kiss on my cheek and I smile at her, my heart bubbling, ready to burst from my chest.

"Thank you, mother."

I am all ready and primed for my Prince's arrival.

But he didn't come.

The entire function where my parents are busy protecting me from wandering eyes and questions, I have wistfully waited for Prince Dominic's arrival.

But he doesn't come.

Feeling dejected I request my parents wishing to retire early. They frown at my words but reluctantly allow me to return home.

Walking into my home, I feel dejected. But that's not what makes my feet stop in their tracks.

Something is not right. Call it an instinct but the fear that lodges in my throat at the negativity flowing in the house makes my hackles rise.

I am backtracking, and am almost out of the house when my back hits something. I gasp in terror as I turn. The scream erupts and I am sure that the neighbours have heard it. I hope someone comes here to save me from this... this monster.

Staring into dark red eyes, I look at him. He doesn't look human. No.

He has fangs and blood-red eyes. His face is marble-like, white and glistening and his lips are red. His hair is combed back but they are pitch black. I take in all those features at a glance but I am stuck when I look into his eyes.

They are malicious. Glistening with lust. But not the sexual kind. No, it looks like blood lust.

"Beautiful, aren't you?" he murmurs and fear slithers down my spine, making me feel cold all of a sudden. The weight of my fear settles on my shoulders.

"Get out of my house!"

My voice wavers but I don't even have the time to regret it because the monster gets into my space, his hands settling on my shoulders and pressing.