Dark Desires

chapter 15

Damon
I’ve been thinking about taking her out on a quiet date, away from prying eyes. Today, however, feels like it’s going to be anything but simple. I overheard Vaughn on the phone with Melania, mentioning her prom night plans. Apparently, she’s going with someone named Anderson.

Anderson.

Who exactly is Anderson, and why is he accompanying her to prom? She owes me an explanation before I consider politely escorting him out of the venue.

Without hesitation, I dial her number. She answers almost immediately, her voice soft and sweet.

"Hello, Damon! How are you? How’s Sarah doing?"

A smirk plays on my lips. "Ah, so you miss Sarah more than me now, do you?"

She laughs lightly. "Well, she is adorable. I’d probably choose her over you if I had to."

Wonderful. Forgotten for my own dog.

"I see," I reply, feigning offense. "So, I mean nothing to you anymore?"

"Oh, Damon," she says with warmth, "you know I love you more than anyone. I was just teasing. Why did you call?"

I lean back, lowering my voice just slightly. "You didn’t mention you had a prom date. It seems you've already secured the company of a young, athletic gentleman instead of me."

There’s a brief pause, followed by a soft chuckle. I can almost picture her tucking her hair behind her ear in hesitation.

"Damon, you don’t need to worry about me all the time. Anderson is my best friend—we’ve known each other since fifth grade. His girlfriend isn’t able to attend, so he asked if I could accompany him. That’s all. Is this troubling you that much?"

I exhale, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over me. "Perhaps. I suppose I just worry about you. If you need anything—transportation or anything else—please don’t hesitate to ask."

Her voice softens. "I know, Damon. I appreciate it, truly. But I’ll be fine. You don’t always have to be so protective."

"I know," I say quietly. "But I can’t help it."

"I understand," she replies. "I should get back to my assignments, but thank you for calling. Love you, Damon."

"Love you too. Take care."

As the call ends, I lower the phone, staring at the screen for a moment longer than necessary. Perhaps I’m overthinking, but the thought of anyone else standing by her side unsettles me.

She is the one person I hold dearest in this world—my rarest treasure—and I will protect her, no matter the cost.

Melania
" Who’s that?" Maeve, seated across from me in the cafeteria, inquires curiously.

I sigh, lowering my phone. "It’s Damon. And what else? He’s just being jealous about me going with Anderson. He’s far too overprotective... it’s frustrating."

Maeve raises her eyebrows knowingly. "Well, at least he cares. What can you say about Gabriel? He barely pays attention to me, even when I trip and fall. Instead of helping, he laughs."

Gabriel, sitting nearby, smirks and retorts, "To be fair, Maeve, the way you trip and fall is... amusing."

Laughter erupts from Gabriel and me, much to Maeve’s dismay. Flustered, she buries her face in her hands. "You two are impossible. Always making fun of me." She pauses for a moment, then perks up. "By the way, let’s do something exciting after prom night. I’m bored out of my mind. Melania, you have to join us. We’re planning to visit a luxury club—the kind that only billionaires and, well, gang leaders frequent."

Her suggestion makes me uneasy. I hesitate before replying, "Don’t you think that might be dangerous? It doesn’t seem like the best idea."

Maeve shrugs, her enthusiasm unwavering. "All the other clubs in town are dull. Besides, Anderson mentioned he has a pass to get into this one. He’s probably going there to meet someone regarding his father’s business ventures. Let’s skip prom night altogether. Please, Melania. We need to live a little. You can’t stay trapped by fear forever."

Her words stir something in me, though apprehension lingers. I glance at Gabriel, who looks equally hesitant but remains silent. Still, Maeve’s persistence is difficult to ignore. Reluctantly, I relent. "Alright, Maeve. I suppose I can’t always be the ‘good girl.’ Maybe it’s time to step out of my comfort zone. We do need to have some fun."

Gabriel shifts in his seat, visibly conflicted. He seems unconvinced but resigned, likely knowing that Maeve’s moodiness will not tolerate opposition. Regardless, I trust he’ll look out for us, as he always does.

Maeve claps her hands together, excitement gleaming in her eyes. "Perfect! Tonight at 9 PM, it’s settled. Gabe will pick us both up in his car. Let’s make it a night to remember."

As her words echo in my mind, a sense of unease mingles with anticipation. I know Damon would never approve if he found out, but perhaps some secrets are better left untold—for now.