Riley Hayes | A Vampire Novel | Book 2

Chapter 7

The driveway was a sea of mixed emotions and bustling activity as we prepared for the bittersweet farewell. The morning sun bathed everything in a warm, golden light, but the heaviness in my heart made it seem like dusk had already settled.

Leuca and Rayna stood beside the sleek, black car that would carry them to the witch's coven. Leuca was stoic as ever, but his eyes held a hint of vulnerability. Rayna was by his side, her own anxiety barely masked. I could see her glancing back at us, her gaze flickering between her family and the path ahead.

Abigail and Bailey were next to us, their expressions a mix of sadness and support. Abigail gave Rayna a reassuring smile. "You take care of yourself, Rayna. And remember, no matter where you go, you've got a family here that loves you."

Bailey, ever the practical one, added, "And don't forget to ask for help if you need it. Even the strongest witches need a hand now and then."

Leuca's siblings, Lazarus and Amalia, joined the group, their faces reflecting a blend of concern and encouragement. Lazarus placed a comforting hand on Rayna's shoulder. "You've got this, Rayna. We're all here for you."

Amalia, with a gentle pat on Rayna's arm, added, "Just remember to trust yourself. You've always been capable beyond your years."

Anne, their grandmother, approached us next. Her age was marked by wisdom and a certain grace. She looked at Rayna with a mixture of pride and worry. "I hope you'll return soon, dear. You're always welcome here. And remember, it's alright to feel uncertain. We all do. Just keep your heart open and trust your instincts."

Her words were soft but carried the weight of years of experience. She leaned in and whispered, "And don't let the shadows of doubt cloud your path. They're just obstacles to overcome."

The car was packed, and Leuca and Rayna exchanged their final farewells with the rest of the family. Damian held Leia, who was now wriggling furiously, her small face a portrait of anguish.

Leuca and I shared a quick, tender kiss. "Look after the house," he murmured, his voice carrying a mix of love and responsibility. "And make sure you look after our daughters too."

I managed a light-hearted grin. "You know I will. And you make sure to look after her while you're away."

Leia's cries pierced the moment. Damian struggled to soothe her, but she was a tempest of emotions. Leuca's heart was unable to resist the pull. He gently took Leia from Damian's arms, holding her close and rocking her with a tenderness that melted everyone's hearts. "It's alright, sweetheart," he cooed. "Daddy will be back in just a few nights."

Leia's sobs gradually softened as Leuca's soothing presence calmed her. Zera, who had been patiently waiting, also received her share of affection, she also wanted her father's hug. But Leia's cries flared up once more.

Rayna approached me next, her eyes moist. "Whatever happens, I'm proud of you," I said, pulling her into a heartfelt hug. "You've been so brave."

Rayna's voice was choked with emotion. "I'm glad my biological mother took me with her that day so I could meet you. You've been wonderful."

My heart swelled at her words. "You're my daughter too, Rayna, no matter what."

Leuca turned to his nobles, Wyatt and Christina, his face a mask of resolve. "Look after my family while I'm gone. Keep them safe." He smirked, ''Oh and of course, Riley is in charge.''

Wyatt and Christina nodded solemnly. The goodbyes were bittersweet, filled with promises of return and reassurances. As the car began to pull away, I turned to Leia. "Everything will be alright, sweetie. Daddy will be back before you know it."

We watched the car disappear down the driveway, our hearts heavy with the weight of departure.

...

Shadows seemed to dance on the walls. The air was thick with a sense of foreboding, the silence punctuated only by the occasional drip of water from the cave's ceiling.

A deep male voice echoed through the chamber, rich and resonant with a sinister undertone. "It's time to finally take action. My son has taken the bait." He read it through a letter, one that appeared through a familiar. May's familiar, a large crowlike creature.

A figure cloaked in darkness stood before a grim altar, its surface etched with ancient symbols and bathed in the dim glow of flickering torches. Shadows danced around the cavernous chamber as the figure's voice grew colder, each word dripping with determination.

"Althea has fallen," the figure intoned, "and May has taken over the witches. She is eager for revenge for her twin sister's death. She will aid us."

With a deliberate motion, the figure held up a small vial filled with a glimmering green substance. The vial caught the flicker of torchlight, casting eerie reflections across the chamber's walls.

"This," the figure continued, "is something of great use she has already handed me."

The shadows around the figure seemed to writhe and shift, as if responding to the voice's command. The air grew even colder, the weight of impending doom settling heavily over the dungeon as plans were set into motion.