𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐟𝐚𝐥𝐥 {𝐀 𝐓𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐅𝐚𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐜} - 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 [1] ✔️

12. NEW HOME

AS WE EMBARKED ON OUR JOURNEY ONCE MORE, MY MIND started to drift away. It wasn't fixated on the shadowy figure we left behind in Epping Forest. Instead, I found myself lost in a world of imagination, envisioning the abode of these enigmatic vampires. Would it be an opulent manor be close to the Cullens'? Or maybe a majestic castle, reminiscent of those in Castlevania? My thoughts were untamed, and I couldn't rid myself of the preconceived notions and tales surrounding vampires. Were they merely figments of folklore and fables?

We traveled further into the unknown and my mind continued to wander, conjuring up images of dark, gothic structures hidden deep within the forest. I imagined towering spires reaching towards the sky, shrouded in mist and mystery. Would the vampires within be elegant and refined, like the vampires of Anne Rice's novels, or would they be more savage and primal, like the creatures of Bram Stoker's Dracula?

I couldn't shake the feeling of both fear and fascination that enveloped me as we drew closer to our destination. The stories I had heard as a child, of vampires who preyed on the innocent and drank blood to sustain their immortal existence, haunted me. But at the same time, there was a thrill in the unknown, a sense of adventure that compelled me to push forward despite my trepidation.

As we neared our destination, the clock struck midnight. The building loomed before us, and I was astounded by its immense size. It surpassed even the Cullens' house, reminiscent of Croft Manor from the Tomb Raider games. The mansion was encircled by vast gardens, enclosed by towering walls. A winding path extended from the mansion, leading to the rest of the estate. It was truly a breathtaking sight.

"Is this where you live?" I inquired, still captivated by the magnificence of the place.

"Yes, it sure is, luv," Joseph replied with a smile.

"How were you able to acquire such a place?" I couldn't resist asking.

"It belonged to Helena's family," Gabriel explained. "After her family's passing, she inherited the mansion. It was my first case as a lawyer, and I was able to assist her. Since then, we've made it our home and welcomed more members into our family."

Gabriel switched off the engine of his sleek car, the purr of the motor fading away into the distance, as he pulled into the garage. Stepping out of the vehicle, my attention was immediately captivated by the sheer magnificence of the mansion that stood before us.

Approaching the entrance, a woman materialized seemingly out of thin air. She stood outside the mansion, exuding an air of calmness and warmth, her posture radiating regality. Her oval face was framed by voluminous roots and loose curls of blonde hair, cascading down to her back with her flawless skin as pale as the moon. Her eyes sparkled with a golden hue, captivating anyone who dared to meet her gaze. With minimal makeup, only a touch of purple shades under her eyes, she showcased her natural beauty effortlessly.

She adorned herself in a light blue chiffon summer dress, its elegance accentuated by long puffed sleeves. Completing her ensemble were a pair of baby blue ballet flats, adding a touch of grace to her every step.

As she approached us, her presence commanded attention, her every movement graceful and deliberate.

"Welcome back, my love," she uttered, extending her arms towards Gabriel. 

He embraced her affectionately, and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy at the profound bond they shared. After a brief pause, Gabriel turned towards me and introduced me to his beloved wife, Helena.

"It's nice to meet you," I greeted, extending my hand. 

To my surprise, Helena pulled me into a warm embrace, overwhelming me with her genuine affection. It was evident that she was someone who embraced physical closeness, and I couldn't help but feel a tad uncomfortable in the face of such warmth.