Lethal Beauty

Special Chapter - Winter Wonderland Part One

Festive spirit in Rome meant touring the most beautifully decorated street markets that sell handmade crafts, artisan works, antiques, and traditional delicacies. When Abel was younger, he would immerse himself in an exciting atmosphere made of colors, perfumes, and tastes that warmed his heart. As he became an adult, he turned solemn and contented himself inside the house, decorating trees or lighting a Christmas lantern.

Since being married, Abel had spent most of his time exploring places mostly recommended by Jessen. He shared stories in each of the locations, memories mostly about his Nonna. He drew a deep sigh as he gazed down at his grandmother's portrait. Although grateful that some of her belongings were returned to his hands, he was also sad that her house had to be destroyed. Part of the arrangement with the "Councils of Lamia" aside from marrying Iris, was erasing his identity. No one should ever know his true existence, or that he was the last of the offspring of Eve, the perfect dhampir. Since losing both his mother and twin brother, Abel felt as if their powers had transferred fully into his body. His blood alone could cure several shtriga and was known to create a new breed of immortals that were less vicious and more civilized than their counterparts.

Another sigh escaped his lips and felt a soft fur slowly approaching him by the side. He giggled at the sight of a grey-white fur with dark spots and rosettes, rubbing himself against his chin.

"Iris..." he mildly chided, stroking his back and scratching the back of his ears. "Are you cold?" Abel was aware that Iris would often transform himself into a snow leopard whenever the temperature dropped.

Knowing that it might take a while to convince his husband to morph back, Abel yawned and put the photo album back in the cabinet beside the bookshelf standing near the Christmas tree. He also rearranged the gifts, excited to see Lexus, Milo, and the others for their upcoming Christmas celebration and gift-giving for the winter solstice.

Yawning loudly, he dragged himself into the bedroom and snuggled with Iris on the bed. The extra-thick soft, dense fur was effective during winter to keep his body warm. Iris knew how much Abel loved cuddling with him in his cat form and kept his body close. Abel smiled, "See you tomorrow, Iris. I love you."

The cat purred and answered him with a gentle lick on his cheek...

⛧☾༺♰༻☽⛧

Abel opened his eyes and looked dumbly around him in utter confusion. First, he questioned where could be at this precise moment. Second, he knew that something felt, not quite right, yet he remained remarkably calm. He sat up tentatively, furrowing his brows, his last recollection was retiring to bed with Iris by his side...

IRIS!?

Where was he? Abel looked around as the reality sunk in. He wasn't at home nor was this his bedroom. For once, he was inside the forest. The whole ground was covered in grass. The trees were tall and buzzing with life. It represents the unknown where anything could happen. Abel was awestruck with the vibrant colors and the lush flowers as well as the sound of the twigs crunching under his feet.

He could not tell if it was morning or night. The trees were the towers of the forest but a sliver of light slipped between the leaves and gaps, bathing the land with a tender glow. But as he scanned his surroundings carefully, he had the oddest feeling that he was no longer alone.

Suddenly, he heard a wildcat slinking away.

Abel turned and saw a snow leopard that looked exactly like Iris, with Arctic blue eyes and lethal grace. Except this one was wearing a clock around his neck and a cozy velvet coat on top of his fur, plus a Santa hat on his head...