Isabel

Chapter 20

Abandoned St. Christopher's Hospital in Toronto, Canada was a desolate place where Victoria Nelson, a former detective turned Private Investigator, found herself in a precarious situation. She lay tied to the hospital bed, vulnerable and unclothed, at the mercy of her captor.

Victoria couldn't help but find a twisted sense of humor in her kidnapper's intentions. The man, whom she recognized as a vampire by his eerie presence, seemed to believe that she would bear his child. She speculated that he might have been a doctor in his human life, given his demeanor and knowledge of medical matters.

Defiantly, Victoria declared, "There is absolutely no chance that I will comply with your demands," as she continued to struggle against her restraints.

To her surprise, the figure retorted, "You did so for Fitzroy."

Arching an eyebrow in recognition, Victoria realized that this vampire was acquainted with Henry, whom most vampires referred to as Fitzroy when familiar with him. She retorted, "That situation was entirely different, and the pregnancy with my twins was undoubtedly an unintended consequence."

The figure growled in response, "Yet you carried them to term."

Unwavering, Victoria replied, "Naturally, why wouldn't I?" Her determination and strength of character shone through in her unwavering stance.

It was never in Vicki's plans to have children or embrace motherhood when she unexpectedly found out she was pregnant with twins, Noah and Nate. Despite this unforeseen turn of events, the idea of abortion never crossed her mind. Vicki held strong moral beliefs and had always been firmly against the practice of abortion. 

Her convictions were deeply rooted in her upbringing, having been raised by strict Protestant Christian grandparents who instilled in her a sense of right and wrong. Though she didn't actively practice religion herself, Vicki was guided by the moral compass instilled in her by her family

"Ah, so you are acquainted with Henry, are you?" inquired Vicki.

"Indeed, one could say that," replied the Figure.

"If you are familiar with Henry, then you must be a more seasoned vampire, as the younger ones tend to steer clear of him," Vicki remarked.

With a heavy sigh, the Figure lowered his hood, revealing a mane of dark brown hair and piercing dark green eyes. Standing at a height of 6'1", he exuded a certain allure that Vicki couldn't help but acknowledge.

"And who might you be?" inquired Vicki.

"I am Bartholomew Dragomir," the man introduced himself.

"Dragomir, isn't that a Bulgarian surname?" Vicki inquired further.

"Yes, indeed," confirmed Bartholomew.

"Why have you taken me captive?" Vicki pressed on.

"You are fortunate, for most women carrying dhampir offspring do not survive," Bartholomew explained solemnly.

As Vicki gazed into Bartholomew's eyes, she detected a profound sorrow within them.

"I presume you have experienced such a tragedy yourself," Vicki sympathized.

"Indeed, many years ago, and my son did not make it either," Bartholomew revealed.

"I offer my condolences," Vicki expressed her sympathy.

"Would you like me to carry your child?" Vicki inquired.

"Yes, I apologize for kidnapping you. I was unsure how to broach the subject. I promise not to take the child away from you; we can co-parent," Bartholomew explained.