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Second Chance
Chapter One--Natalie’s 40th Birthday

By: Deborah A. Hymon

April 14, 2003

Thank you, Gloria for
   editing this chapter.

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Natalie Lambert sat at her desk in Toronto’s city morgue.  She had been the chief coroner for several years but she had first started this job in the fall of 1990.  She took a deep breath.  In many ways that first day seemed like yesterday but in other ways it felt like many lifetimes ago.  In actual time, it had been almost thirteen years since she had first stepped into this room.

How had her life ended up the way it was today?  She sighed and felt the sadness fill her body, her heart, her very soul.  Tears filled her eyes but she refused to give them their release.  No, she wouldn’t shed tears; she had shed too many of them the last six years.  She thought she was over the heartache but if she was honest, she knew her heart would never be the same.  Her heart hadn’t been the same since the night of April 14, 1991, her 28th birthday.

Nick.  Nick B. Knight.  Nicolas de Brabant.  He had gone by so many names, been so many enigmas but to her he was ‘her Nick’ and always would be.  “I won’t leave you, no matter what, we’ll be together.” He had promised; and she had affirmed his promise with one word, “Forever”.  And then to seal their eternal love, Nick had kissed her and done what she had asked him to do; he had made love to her.  His fingers, with a slight pressure, had trailed long sensual strokes up and down the side of her neck, feeling her blood flowing from her heart.  He had looked at her and she could see the love, the desire; he smiled and kissed her palm and wrist before he lowered his mouth to hers and then to her neck.  His tongue retraced the path of his fingers, before gently sinking his fangs into her artery and drinking of her life force.  Nick had made love to her, the way that vampires share themselves with each other.

For them this had been more intimate, more erotic than the mortal sexual act could ever have been. Nick had held her head gently in his hands and had taken all of her into him and had given all of himself to her in return.  All of her memories, her feelings, her very soul were given freely and he took it all, passionately.  But in return she had received so much; she had seen all of Nick’s mortal and immortal life, his horrors, his regrets but mostly she had seen the intense love that he felt for her, his hopes and dreams of them marrying, having children; she had seen an image of them with four kids, running and laughing on a beach, Nick playing ball with the kids in the sun; Nick’s dream. All of his thoughts and dreams had flowed through her and with that knowledge she rejoiced because now she knew for sure, without a doubt, that Nick B. Knight truly loved her, her, Natalie A. Lambert. And at that moment she had thought they would be together for eternity, to love freely, something that they'd been denied since meeting that night, April 14, 1991.

But it wasn’t to be. She had always thought and felt in her heart that she and Nick were destined to be together. Many times she had been thankful that Nick was a vampire, for if he hadn’t been immortal they would never have met.  He would have lived his life and it would have been over long before her existence, eight hundred years before she was born.  She was ashamed to admit to this, but now after what had happened that night, she was more honest with her feelings, especially with herself.

The night it had all ended, neither one of them had been in control; she could admit to this now.  Nick had been frustrated and depressed.  There had been too many set backs in the last few months, each one thrusting him closer to the Vampire.  The downward spiral started with her invention of a serum, Litovuterine-B, to cure Nick of the vampire; it had been a temporary fix but it had given Nick hope until the effects had worn off and once again the Vampire was raging and demanding it’s due.  Then his first partner and friend, Don Schanke had died when the airplane he was on exploded from Black Buddha’s bomb.  This sent Nick into a deep depression; he had almost moved on at that time. She knew in her heart the only reason he stayed was because of her.  

And then there had been the night that Nick was shot in the head.  She and LaCroix, his vampire father and master, had managed to confuse people enough so that everyone thought Nick had been slightly wounded.  He had temporarily lost his memory, who he was and what he was.  That had been a blessing in disguise or maybe it had been a hell for both of them.  Nick didn’t remember her name but he did remember his feelings for her. One thing had led to another that night and they had made love, normal mortal love. That night was the most wonderful night of her life; Nick had said the same thing. She had taken a big risk that the Vampire wouldn’t surface and kill her before Nick, the man, knew what was happening; but the Vampire hadn't surfaced and the night was a dream come true for both of them.  They had made love several times, exploring each other's bodies with heated passion.  The entire night had been wonderful until Nick started regaining his memory and had left the loft while she was sleeping; that had been the end of their beautiful dream.  She had told Nick what he was and they had realized that the previous night could never be repeated; it would be too dangerous for Nat.

A few weeks later, Nick walked in on an exorcism and the demon had possessed him.  LaCroix had taken him back to the priest to have the demon exorcised from Nick.  The possession had left him weak, his craving for human blood stronger than ever, but he wanted it from the living source and not the donated, bottled vintage.  The final blow for Nick had been when Tracy, his recent partner, had been shot while he was trying to talk a suspect in to giving up and put down his gun; later that night, Tracy had died.  Nick had lost two partners within two years; this final tragedy had been the catalyst for Nick’s undoing.  Loosing two partners in such a short period of time would have been enough to send a mortal cop over the edge, but for Nick to deal with this and all the other setbacks, it had been just too much.  Damn!  Would Nick ever find peace, or had he already?  

Nat didn’t even know if Nick was still alive. Her memories of their last night at Nick’s loft was a fog of jumbled images. She could remember LaCroix’s voice in the distance, “life is a gift, a precious jewel.”  Another image, Nick telling LaCroix that he was his oldest friend.  But the words that haunted Natalie the most were Nick’s; “I can’t condemn her to this darkness.”  Damn him for that!  She had told him if he took too much of her blood that she wanted him to bring her across.  An eternity of darkness wouldn’t matter if it was spent with him.  Damn you, Nick; I had already chosen my path, but no, you had to choose for me. Damn you, damn you, damn you!  Once again the tears filled her eyes and this time the dam did break, but their release didn’t ease the heaviness of her heart.  Natalie started to laugh as she wiped the tears from her cheeks.  “Nick, I know what you would say; you’re already damned.  But you’re not Nick, you’re not…” she whispered.

She composed herself and finished working on the files; she wanted to get everything in order before she left.

~~~<~~@

“Hi, Natalie.  Ready to go?”  Joe Reese asked as he entered the morgue and walked over to Nat’s desk.

“Yep, just let me send this last file to the 39th and I’ll be ready to blow this joint for three full weeks.”  She smiled at Joe and turned her attention back to her computer screen.

“What time did you say your flight leaves?”

“Nine sharp.  I wanted to finish up these files tonight before heading out.”

“Couldn’t the day shift have done that?”

“Yeah, but you know me, Joe, I like to make sure there are no loose ends.”

Joe looked at his watch.  “I know Nat, but you started your vacation tonight at five.  Come on, give it a rest; it’s about time the others around here work as hard as you do.”

Natalie pushed the email send button and sent her final autopsy report to the 39th precinct.  She wondered if it might truly be her last report, the last one she would ever send. She looked up at Joe and smiled. He had taken it upon himself to become sort of a father figure to her ever since Nick’s disappearance.  Well, it wasn’t exactly a disappearance;  the day after her last night with Nick, there had been a resignation letter typed and signed by Nick and sent to the Captain.  Nat knew enough about how the Community worked to know that the signature could be a fake, but a fake good enough to stand up in court if need be. The Vampire Community was good at covering their tracks.

Just because the Captain had Nick’s signature didn’t mean that Nick was okay or alive for that matter.  She wondered if the Enforcers had gone after him because he had revealoed the existence of the Community to her.  But wouldn’t they have come after her, too?  Nat couldn’t believe it had been six years and no word from him.  There hadn’t been any signs that Nick Knight ever existed.  She had tried finding him, searching all of the likely places; the Raven had been closed and boarded up, the property supposedly sold to a developer, but it had remained empty for the entire six years.

She had driven by the place many times.  She didn’t know why she continued to do that, but she did. Yes, she did know; somehow it made her feel closer to Nick.  Several times she had parked her car and stared at the club, always to surface from deep thoughts to realize she had been sitting there for long periods of time.  Over the years, she had stopped and checked the doors at least five or six times but always found them padlocked and the same sign hanging out front, SOLD.

She had made daily trips to Nick's loft only to find that everything had remained.  Two months later, after a weekend trip to visit her sister-in-law and niece, she had returned to the loft to find it empty.  Absolutely nothing remained to indicate that Detective, Nick Knight had ever existed and lived there.  Another SOLD sign appeared, this time on the front of the property.  But the loft remained empty through the years just as the Raven had.  This at first made her doubt that Nick, Janette, and LaCroix had permanently moved on; but after the years started to pass and the properties remained empty, her hopes of them returning slowly died, along with a piece of her heart.

Some days were better than others for her to cope with the loss of Nick in her life.  Recently she had a stronger need to feel closer to Nick.  She wasn’t sure why she had felt the need again, unless it was her approaching 40th birthday.  After all, she and Nick had met on her birthday and every birthday after that had been special; he had always remembered, even though the first couple of years he’d almost forgotten.  Grace had confided to her; the first two years she had reminded him, but after that he’d never forgotten.  He had always done something to make it special for her.  She ignored her birthdays after Nick had left; it was too painful to remember that it was the day that they had met.  Grace had been curious at first of her lack of celebrating her birthday, but finally Nat had told her that it was also the date she had met Nick and that she preferred to forget the date and go on as if it were just another day.  She had seen the sadness in her friends eyes, but Grace had quietly accepted her decision and had stopped with the surprise birthday parties, but had started a new tradition of putting a gift on her desk each year.

She realized that Joe was watching her and it was making her uncomfortable.  In the beginning, when Nick first left, Joe had hovered over her like a mother hen, but now he only did it when he thought she wasn’t watching.  She knew he cared about her because he and his wife Denise had started including her in family gatherings and asking her over for Sunday dinners.  She had tried declining in the beginning, but the Captain wouldn’t take no for an answer.  Finally, she decided it was easier to accept than to try to find an excuse.  To her surprise, she had enjoyed the Reese’s company and now looked forward to their times together.  They had made her part of their family and she loved them all dearly.

“Joe, can you give me ten more minutes and then I promise, you can drive me to the airport?”

“Sure, Nat. I’ll be in the hall talking to Bob, the security guard.  Just give me a yell when you’re ready and I’ll come get your luggage.”

“Deal. I promise I won’t be more than ten.”

Joe had left Nat alone in the morgue, She had finished with her reports but she needed a few minutes alone before leaving this place for three weeks.  Several times she had the thought of never coming back.  She didn’t know what she would decide to do with her life; she needed time away to think.  

She picked up the picture of her and Nick at the first precinct picnic they had attended together.  She traced his face with her finger and stared at his image.  “Well, Nick.  Here I am, another birthday is approaching.  Boy oh boy, is it ever; this is a big one.  Somehow I always felt you would be here to help me celebrate this one.”  She felt the tears trying to form, but she mentally pushed them back.  “Where are you, Nick?  Do you even care any more?  Do you know how you’ve broken my heart?  I still love you; I’ll always love you.”  She smiled at the photo.  “You’ve ruined me, you know; I’ll never be able to find another man who'll compare to you.  And do you know what, Nick?  I compare every man I meet to you but none of them come close to being your equal.”  She sighed and kissed the photo.  “You’re a hard act to follow. I wish you knew that.”  

She started to put the photo in her desk drawer but something stopped her.  She took another look at Nick’s handsome face.  He was kissing her in the photo. Schanke had taken the photo without them knowing.  The kiss had been given while Nick was apologizing for teasing her about being a modern woman; it had been a friendly kiss, nothing more.  But when Schanke had given them both a copy he had told them that they were more than ‘just friends.’  He had made the statement that photos don’t lie; they tell the truth.  “You know, Nick, Schanke was right; photos don’t lie.  I loved you then, and I think you loved me then, too; we just didn’t know it.”

She still loved him and always would.  She knew that she would be searching for him for the rest of her life; she just hoped that someday she would find him or find out what had happened to him.  She couldn’t believe he would leave her, especially without a goodbye. Her mind told her she should be angry with him, but her heart always won the battle; telling her that he had good reasons for leaving and not contacting her.  Her biggest fear was never finding him or knowing if he was still alive.  She wasn't afraid of dying, but she was afraid of dying without answers. Deep down in her soul, she knew she couldn't go to a final rest without them.  Yes, she would search for answers until the day she died.  Wasn’t her recent actions proof of that?

Just last week, she had driven to the Raven and parked out front.  She sat in her car for over an hour listening to a CD, piano music of Moonlight Sonata.  This was Nick's favorite classical piece.  He had played it often for her and it had become her favorite, too.  Just as she was about to pull away and drive home, she thought she had seen Janette in the shadows, in the alley.  She had stopped her car, jumped out and called for her.  “Janette!  Janette!  Oh God, please!  If you’re there, please talk to me Janette. Please!”  The tears had started to flow. “Why?  Oh God, why won’t you talk to me?  Please, I need to know if he’s okay…Please.”

She had been so distraught that she hadn’t noticed a stranger approach her.  The tall, slim man dressed all in black, with black, shoulder length hair and dark eyes had taken her arm.  “Dr. Lambert, you shouldn’t be here; it’s not safe.”  She had looked up and for the first time had seen the handsome man, but what had startled her had been his pale skin and his cold touch.  AVampire.  “Did you hear me?  You shouldn’t be here.  This isn’t a safe part of town and a lady like you shouldn’t be here, especially alone.  Can I help you with something?” He smiled at her and something told her he meant her no harm.

“I’m looking for Nick Knight, Nicolas de Brabant or Janette.  Do you know how I can find either of them?  And how do you know my name?”

“Dr. Lambert, the entire Toronto Community knows who you are. We’re all very grateful for the vaccine you developed for the fever that swept through the Community.  I, for one, am very grateful to you for your work; your vaccine saved me from sure death. As for Knight and Janette, I’m sorry, I can’t help you. I would if I could, honest; I owe you that much, but I’m afraid they’ve both disappeared, moved on I would presume.  I’m sure you know when Vampires move on, it’s impossible for anyone to find us.”

Natalie brushed the tears from her eyes.  “Yes, I’m well aware of that, but I need to know that Nick is okay. I don’t know what happened the night he disappeared and I need to know.”

“I’m sorry Dr, but I honestly don’t know anything.”

She looked at the handsome Vampire and something told her he spoke the truth.  “Thank you…I’m sorry, I didn’t catch your name.”

He smiled and she noticed he had the same twinkle in his eyes that Nick had when he smiled.  “I don’t believe I mentioned my name, but it’s Dimitri.  If you ever need anything you can reach me at this number.”  He pulled out a business card.  “Please know that I mean you no harm, if anything just the opposite.  You’re famous throughout the Community and I think you would be surprised at how many of us are loyal to you and committed to keeping you safe.”

Nat had been shocked.  She had looked at the tall, handsome vampire and hadn’t a clue what to say in response to his disclosure.   She had been living the last six years, looking over her shoulder, still wondering if the Council would send the Enforcers to kill her.  Now, Dimitri had revealed that the Community was in her debt and protected her. Could this mean that she was safe from the Enforcers?  Could she finally relax on that one issue?

She had looked at Dimitri and wondered if she should ask; before she could change her mind, she had.  She lowered her voice and looked straight in his eyes.  “Dimitri, I’ve been afraid that I would be taken care of if you know what I mean, that I would be eliminated.”

He touched her shoulder in a sincere gesture.  “Dr. Lambert, I can’t say for sure, but I would almost bet that your debt has been paid with the Council.  If they haven’t done anything by now then I would imagine you’re safe.”

She had never thought of it in those terms but maybe Dimitri was right. God, she hoped so; she was so tired, especially tired of looking over her shoulder.  Immediately after Nick disappeared, she had waited and expected them to come for her at any time.  At first she had been terrified, but then she had just not given a damn; if they did come for her, killed her, then once and for all her emptiness and loneliness would be gone. She actually wished that she was dead but her religious upbringing prevented her from imposing that ultimate sentence on herself.

But recently, for some unknown reason, she had decided her life meant a lot to her, a hell of a lot.  Nick wouldn’t want her to throw her life away.  LaCroix’s words came back to haunt her.  “Life is a gift, a precious jewel.”  She had never agreed with anything Nick’s master had said, but this she did. Her life was a gift, a mortal gift, something Nick would have loved to receive. She only wished that she could have been the one to give him that gift.

Dimitri walked her back to her car and waited for her to get in before he shut the door.  He braced his hands on the top of her car and leaned down toward her. “Dr. I meant what I said, if you ever need anything, please don’t hesitate to call me. I think Knight would have wanted you to. I did know him and I know he respected you and cared for you deeply.  I’ll do anything to help you in any way...and I’m truly sorry I can’t help you find him or Janette. When one of us moves on, no one, and I mean no one can find us. I’m sure Knight had a very important reason to go and not contact you…maybe it was to protect you.”

“I’m sure he did.  Thank you Dimitri.”

He had extended his hand and she had taken it. They had shook hands and he had covered her hand with his other one.  “I’m honored to finally have met you. I now know why you were so important to Knight.”  He had smiled at her.  “Thank you again, Dr. Lambert.”

She had returned his smile.  “Natalie, my friends call me Natalie.”

“Alright, Natalie it is.  Drive safe, Natalie, and please don’t come around here again; it’s not safe for you. I don’t mean it’s not safe because of us, the Community; it’s not safe because there are a lot of human undesirables that might take advantage of you being here alone. If you truly feel you must come, then call me and I’ll meet you here. I’ll watch over you and give you your privacy, then at least you’ll be safe.”  He had sensed that she needed to be here, probably because in some strange way it made her feel close to Knight.

“Thank you, Dimitri.  I may not be back but if I do then I’ll make sure I call you. Thank you for everything.”  She had driven home and thought about how strange the night had been.  Nick had been out of her life for the past few years, but she still felt connected to the Community and safe with certain vampires.  Damn, her life would never be normal whether Nick was in it or not.  How could it be when she knew that vampires existed and they seemed to still be a big part of her life?

She realized that she was still staring at the picture.  Joe would be wondering why she hadn’t called him.  Any minute he would be poking his head back in the door.  She smiled at the picture; it was her favorite of all the ones she had of her and Nick.  She realized that it was because this photo was taken when things had been so simple and their relationship had been full of fun; teasing, laughing, but most of all sharing their hopes and dreams.  

She decided she couldn’t leave without the picture.  What if she chose not to return?  No, she couldn’t part with this one sacred photo.  “Nick?  How would you like to go to Florida with me?”  She laughed at her little game.  “Nat, that sounds like fun; let’s go.”  She couldn’t believe she was sitting here with a photo and pretending to act out a scene between her and Nick.  “Damn, Lambert! You do need a vacation.”  She tucked the photo in her carryon bag and went to the door to call Joe.

~~~<~~@

The airport terminal had been busy.  Joe had taken her luggage to the check in counter and waited for her to get her boarding pass.  “Nat, I wish I could wait with you but you know how the security is after the World Trade Center bombing.”

“I know, it’s okay.  I’ll be fine.”

“Nat, I worry about you.”  He had taken her shoulders in his large hands.  “I know I probably shouldn’t mention this, but I haven’t said anything for a while.”  He hesitated and Nat knew where this conversation was going.  “Natalie, I know you still love Nick.  I don’t know why he’s never contacted you.  I know when I see a man in love and the man was definitely in love with you. But hon, it’s been six years.  Life goes on.  I hope you take this time and decide how you’re going to go on without him.  I’m not sure we’ll ever know where he is or why he left.”

She touched Joe’s cheek with the palm of her hand and smiled.  “Joe, I don’t know the answers; I wish that I did.  I can tell you this; I know Nick loved me, I think he still does. I know in my heart he has his reasons for leaving and for not contacting me.  I still live with the hope that someday I’ll hear from him.  I love you dearly, your entire family.  But please don’t push me to forget about him and move on.  I’m not ready for that; I’m not sure I ever will be.  What we had was very special and nothing will ever compare to that.”  

She smiled at him and let her hand drop to his chest, over his heart.  “I know how much you love Denise.  If something happened and she just disappeared, would you ever stop searching for her?  Would you give up on her?”

Joe covered her hand with his.  “No. I wouldn’t.”  He said firmly.  He smiled and pushed a lock of her hair behind her ear.  

A sudden feeling of deja vu came over Natalie.  Nick used to push her hair behind her ear just as Joe had.  “I didn’t think so.  Somehow, I knew you would understand.  I do plan on doing some serious thinking while I’m gone. I need to decide what I’ll do with the rest of my life, but I’ll never give up on Nick…” Her voice trailed off to a whisper, “never.”

He had pulled her in to his embrace, his large arms holding her as if he were trying to protect her.  Once again her eyes filled with tears as she buried her face in his massive chest.  For one brief moment it felt good to have this fatherly figure of a man hold her.  She knew he cared for her and wanted to see her happy, but he couldn’t give her the happiness she wanted; only Nick could do that.

She had pushed out of his arms and smiled at him.  “I love you, Joe, but you’ve got to let me find my own way to happiness and peace.  I’ll be okay; this trip will be a good time to get away from Toronto and all the memories.”  She laughed, trying to lighten the mood.  “Just think of me these next few weeks. I’ll be sitting in the sun on a beautiful beach while you’re here freezing your butt off.”

He had laughed and hugged her one last time.  “Nat, you’re amazing. I’ve always loved your sense of humor.”  He laughed.  He had kissed her on the forehead and watched her walk through security before leaving.

Nat checked through security and was gathering her carryon and purse off the conveyer belt when she suddenly felt a chill pass over her.  She turned and looked back at the main lobby to see that Joe was walking out the front door.  She scanned the crowd, searching, for what she didn’t know.  The sudden chill had caused her to have gooseflesh, the hairs on the back of her neck tingled, and her heart fluttered. She didn't know what had caused the unusual feeling that had washed over her, but she had the feeling someone was watching her.  She thoroughly looked around the terminal again, but she hadn’t recognized anyone.  She had gathered her things and headed to her flight’s departure gate.  She hadn’t seen the person, hiding behind a tall plant, but they had seen her and heard everything.

Nat had boarded her plane and settled in her first class seat.  This was her first vacation in years and she wasn’t about to be frugal.  The flight attendant approached her and smiled.  “Can I get you something while the remaining passengers board?”

“Yes, a glass of white wine would be nice and perhaps a blanket and pillow.”  

“I’ll be right back.” The attendant smiled and walked back to her station.

Nat had reclined her seat and shut her eyes; she hadn’t noticed the handsome man boarding the plane.

Dimitri had been surprised to see Natalie Lambert sitting in the seat across the aisle from his.  He smiled at the thought of the beautiful and intelligent doctor’s company for the duration of the flight.  He touched her shoulder and leaned forward.  “Dr. Lambert, Natalie?”

She opened her eyes and was surprised to see Dimitri’s handsome face.  Damn, just what she needed; another gorgeous, charismatic vampire in her life.  She frowned.  “Dimitri, what are you doing here?”  She immediately became suspicious.  Was the man following her?  Was he the one who she'd felt watching her at the security check-in?  It had been a long time since she had tried to regulate her heart rate, to keep a vampire from knowing she was nervous or scared.  But suddenly she was aware that she was subconsciously doing it.  She took a deep breath and tried to smile. Lambert, don’t let the man know you’re unnerved by his presence.

He must have noticed the change in her breathing and heart rate because he responded.  “Relax, Natalie. I know this must appear suspicious, but I can assure you that your presence on this flight is just as surprising as I’m sure mine is to you.”

She looked deep into his eyes and saw no trace of deception.  Another passenger had boarded the plane and Dimitri sat down across the aisle from her.  Natalie watched him as he tucked his briefcase under the seat in front of him and removed his black, linen jacket.  The man was dressed as if he had just stepped out of G.Q. magazine; just like Nick.  What was it with vampires and clothes?  Most of them seemed to have extremely good taste, expensive taste.  Well, most of them except Vachon.  Natalie had often wondered what Nick’s partner, Tracy, had seen in the slacker vampire; but Nat knew that the woman had been in love with him so there must have been something deeper to the man.  

The flight attendant had given Nat a blanket, pillow and glass of wine before approaching Dimitri.  The attendant spoke with him briefly before taking his jacket to hang in the storage compartment.  Natalie had observed his mannerisms and couldn’t help making the comparison to Nick.  There were so many things about this man that reminded her of Nick.  He was tall, graceful, polite, and handsome and he had a beautiful smile.  Dimitri's hair and eye color was the opposite of Nick's but his mannerisms and body structure was definitely similar to Nick's.

Dimitri could feel Natalie observing him and couldn’t resist looking at her.  Knight definitely had good taste. She was a unique woman.  There was a break between people boarding the plane and the aisle was clear for the moment. He leaned over and whispered for her ears only.  “Natalie, please don’t be alarmed with my presence.  Honestly, this was not a planned flight.  An emergency has arisen and I need to fly to Sarasota; I booked the flight just hours ago.  Problems with children and one of my establishments, if you know what I mean.”

“Yes, I do know what you mean by children. I just think it odd that we both are on the same plane, but somehow I believe you. I don’t think you’re following me.”

He smiled.  “Good, I wouldn’t want you to get the wrong impression.  I assure you I don’t make a habit of stalking women.”  He had almost said ‘beautiful women,’ but somehow he knew she wouldn’t want to hear such compliments coming from him. No, this woman was still in love with Knight and from what he could sense from the emotions coming from her, she would be in love with Knight for a long time to come, perhaps forever.

The last passengers had boarded; the flight attendants closed the door, announced the fasten seat belt sifn was lit, and the plane began to taxi out to the runway.

Dimitri had noticed the rather large man who, at the last minute, had boarded and seated himself on the other side of Natalie, next to the window.  He had noticed how the man couldn’t stop looking at her and how he had tried to engage her in conversation.  Natalie seemed annoyed ever since the man had sat down. He had been watching and waiting for an appropriate time to ask her and now that the man had once again started talking to her he decided to make his move. 

“Natalie, it appears the seat next to me is free. I was wondering if you would like to join me?   We could catch up on old times, old friends?” He had a mischievous twinkle in his eye when he smiled at her; once again it reminded her of Nick.  She sighed.  Girl, it’s not Nick and don’t you go forgetting it.  But she had known what he was doing; he was offering her an escape from the man sitting next to her.

She had smiled her own mischievous smile and answered him.  “I thought you would never ask. I would love to catch up on old times.”  That had been all the encouragement that Dimitri needed. He stood, removed her carryon from under the seat in front of her and put it across the aisle next to his.  He allowed her to slide past him into the vacant seat, next to the window before he returned to his own seat.  He had leaned toward her and she had felt his cool breath on her cheek.  “I couldn’t resist the offer, you looked miserable.” He whispered in her ear.

“You’re so observant, but then aren’t all of you?”  She raised an eyebrow.

“Perhaps, just call me a chivalrous, medieval knight; once a knight, always a knight. And I do love rescuing maidens in distress.  Call it a trait left over from a previous occupation.” He had given her another smile, this one full of innocence.  

She had to smile.  What was it with her and medieval knight vampires?  She would bet money that Dimitri was indeed a relic from medieval times and truly had been a knight; she had no doubt that his comment was more than an innocent jest.  

Great, Lambert, this is just what you need in your life. Isn’t this what you’re trying to run away from?  She didn’t want to forget Nick, but she did want to disconnect herself from the paranormal parts of her life.  But this man was making it impossible. She had been terribly surprised, but she had found that to some degree she did trust him.  She felt he was honest about being thankful for her vaccine and that he would protect her.  She didn’t know why she had trusted him, but she did. Perhaps because if he had wanted to harm her he could have the night they first met in front of the Raven.

The flight had been a pleasant one.  Dimitri told her he had been in Toronto for almost ten years.  He had kept a low profile and that was one reason she had never seen him. He had whispered in her ear, ‘the lower the profile, usually the longer one can stay in that location.’

He told her he hadn’t been a frequent customer of the Raven.  He’d visited the establishment only occasionally and never after LaCroix took over the club.  He explained that it always seemed a bit too sleazy for his taste, especially after Janette left town and LaCroix became the owner.  Nat laughed at that. A vampire finding a club sleazy was amusing to say the least.  Nick had certainly enjoyed going there; she had known of his frequent visits and why he had gone; it was the one place he could feel comfortable about what he was, he could relax and not worry about being on his guard, afraid that someone would discover his secret.  She hadn’t approved of Nick going there, but she certainly understood and had tried not to vent her frustration to him.

Somehow their conversation did eventually come around to Nick.  Dimitri asked how they had met.  She told him how Nick had regenerated and woke up on her exam table in the morgue after a pipe bomb explosion.  Dimitri laughed.  “I’m sorry, but I can’t imagine the fright that Knight must have caused you.  It sounds like something out a bad B horror flick.”

She had laughed at his comment and before she had known what she was doing she told him a lot about her times with Nick, including the night he had popped his fangs down and hissed at her after they had watched a King Kong flick. She told him how she had thrown popcorn at Nick and how he laughed and later he tried frightening her again, but it hadn’t worked the second time.  Dimitri had again laughed and told her he hadn't  known that Knight had a playful side or a sense of humor.  She assured him that there were many sides of Nick that most people, mortal or immortal weren’t aware of.  

They laughed and talked through dinner.  She watched him push his food around on the plate just like Nick did.  He ordered a glass of red wine and she whispered in his ear that if he needed to add something to it from a flask that it would be okay, she offered to do it for him on her far side so the man across the aisle wouldn’t notice.  Dimitri had taken her up on the offer; he blocked the man’s view with his back while she poured the special vintage from his silver flask to the wine goblet. She took a few bites of his meal so that it looked as if he had attempted to eat.  

Dimitri had been amused by this woman.  She seemed relaxed in his company.  During the entire flight she'd treated him as if he'd been a normal, mortal man.  He sensed no fear from her and had been totally in awe at the ease with which she helped him appear mortal; first by offering to help with his blood wine and then by eating off of his plate to give the appearance that he'd eaten.  He assumed she was well experienced in the art of deception; after all, she had plenty of experience with helping Knight to maintain his persona.

One thing for sure, he didn’t doubt her loyalty to the Community and especially to Knight. Knight was one damn lucky vampire.  To find a woman, and especially a mortal woman so willing to love him unconditionally, well, he had found it astonishing, almost unbelievable.  He didn’t know why Knight had left her, but after meeting and spending time with Natalie he knew Knight had a damn good reason for leaving and he would bet it had something to do with protecting her. The one thing he couldn’t figure out was what Knight was protecting her from.  The Community certainly wasn’t a threat.  Could it be Knight's master, Lucien LaCroix?  He had heard of Knight’s and LaCroix’s battles through the centuries; no one had ever stood up and rebelled so openly against their master, but Knight had and had lived many centuries doing it.

The flight was over before either of them had known the plane landed.  Natalie couldn’t remember when she'd enjoyed someone’s company as much as she had Dimitri’s.  Yes she did; since Nick had left she'd missed this type of companionship.  Dimitri, helped retrieve her carryon and asked her how many pieces of luggage she needed to claim.  She told him two and he insisted on helping her.  He explained that he maintained a condo in Sarasota and never packed when he flew down for a stay.  They claimed her bags and he turned to her and remained silent.

“What?  Do I have chicken between my teeth or what?”

The ice was broken.  “Natalie, your sense of humor is adorable. I dare say you must have kept Knight constantly laughing with your humor.” He again laughed out loud and she found she liked watching him laugh. She still found it amusing to see a powerful, vampire laughing. It made them somehow seem just a bit mortal.

“I’m glad you like it. Yes, Nick always did love my humor; he was always telling me I had a dark sense of humor.  But then maybe that’s one of the things he loved about me.”  She paused.  “Dimitri…there’s no doubt in my mind that Nick did love me.  That's why I have to find him. You see, I loved him too, I still do.”  She could feel the tears threatening to fill her eyes, but unsuccessfully fought them.

Before he knew what he was doing he hugged her.  “Natalie, you don’t have to tell me this, I can tell you love him.”  He sighed and she felt his cold breath on her temple.  He was even holding her like Nick used to, his chin on top of her head, her cheek pressed to his chest.  “I wished there were something I could do to help you find him, but there’s not.  Aristotle is very secure with his relocations and no one, not even someone as old as me can find someone unless they want to be found.”  

Nat had raised her head and looked up at him.  She wiped the tear from her cheek with the back of her hand.  “And just how old may I ask are you?” she smiled at him waiting for his answer.

“I’m not sure I should say. You might hold it against me and think I’m too old to understand matters of the heart.” He teased before he continued.  “What if I told you I’m pushing 3000 years old, give or take a century?”

“Get out of here!  That’s older than LaCroix!”

“Exactly and you do know the older the vampire the more powerful?  So remember this, if LaCroix should ever intimidate or threaten you just mention my name and tell him you’re under my protection.”

Natalie raised her eyebrow and suddenly became self-conscious.  She was standing in the middle of Tampa, Florida’s airport in the arms of a vampire she had just met.  She started to pull away, but he stopped her, as if he could read her mind. He gently took her shoulders in his hands and made her look at him.  “Natalie, don’t read more into my pledge to protect you, than what it’s meant to be. The Community owes you so much; I owe you.  I find you a very unique woman, very fascinating. I'll never harm you; I'll protect you because I consider you a friend.”  He waited and let his words sink in before continuing.  “I know you love Knight and I would bet my life he still loves you. Please know I’m not trying to seduce you, or harm you in any way. I too have a scientific mind and I find it fascinating that a mortal woman can spend time among our kind and not be afraid and that you can actually love one of us.”  

Suddenly, Natalie felt her body relax.  “Dimitri, I haven’t known you long, but I feel I can trust you and I'm sure you mean me no harm.  I appreciate and welcome your friendship if that truly is all you expect. If I’ve read more into your pledge to protect me, I’m sorry.”  She laughed.  “It’s always good to have an immortal friend or two; they can always enlighten you on history and world affairs.”

He smiled at her and released her.  “Then friends it is and I promise to keep you corrected on Ancient History.  Now, that we have that settled how are you getting to Siesta Key?”

“I had planned on renting a car and driving there tonight.”

“Natalie, it’s already past midnight.  Aren’t you tired?”

“Yes, but I really do want to get to my condo and get settled. I don’t want to spend the night in Tampa.”

“Do you trust me?”

She looked at him unsure why he was asking, but once again her gut instinct told her she could indeed trust him.  “Well, I guess I do if we’re friends.” She smiled.

“Good, then you’re going to be my guest and ride with me. I have my limousine waiting out front with my driver. Siesta Key is only twenty minutes south of Sarasota.  I’ll have my driver drop you off before he takes me to the condo.”

“Dimitri, that’s very kind, but that’s back tracking for you. I don’t want…”  He stopped her from continuing her protest by placing his finger over her lips.

“Shhh, it’s not a problem.  And what are friends for if not to help one another?  Please, I insist and I’ll also know you arrived at your destination safely. You can rent a car there tomorrow for your stay, if you need one.”

She shook her head. “I can see now you don’t play fair. Your logic is beyond argument plus it’s too late and I’m too tired to argue.”

“Good, then let’s go.”  He had hired a porter to carry her bags before taking her arm and leading her out to the awaiting limousine.  The driver had been courteous, but she couldn’t help noticing him watching her or the fact that he was a vampire.  “George, this is Dr. Natalie Lambert.  She’s the coroner from Toronto, the one who invented the vaccine for the virus that swept through the Community.  She’s also Nicolas de Brabant’s close friend and she’s under my protection.”

George had approached her and extended his hand.  She had expected him to shake her hand, but to her surprise he had bowed slightly and kissed the back of her hand in a courtly gesture.  “Dr. Lambert, I’m pleased to finally meet you. Your cure saved several of my children and I’m eternally grateful for you. I’m also in Brabant’s debt; he has helped my family on numerous occasions. He’s a very trustworthy and honest man. I’m truly honored.”  He looked at Dimitri and Natalie was sure she had missed some type of signal or eye contact before he continued.  “Please allow me to say that I’m not surprised at a fine lady like you being a close friend of Brabant’s.”  He then released her hand and turned away to load her luggage.

She was speechless.  She had no idea that vampires in Florida had heard about her and her vaccine, but she was equally astonished at his reference to Nick and the debt he owed him.  She wasn’t sure exactly what George was indebted to Nick for or even if she wanted to know, but the reference to his family could mean no other than his vampire family.

The drive to Natalie’s condo had gone rather quickly.  She had been surprised to find white wine and appetizers stocked in the limo’s mini fridge.  Dimitri had seen her inquisitive look and laughed before explaining he had many mortal business contacts and needed to keep ‘supplies on hand.’  Now it was her turn to laugh at his comment of ‘supplies on hand’; she explained the humor, that it was what Nick had always called the blood packs she kept frozen at her apartment for his emergency snacks.  

That statement and the information Dimitri had picked up from Natalie through the evening made him wonder if Knight and her had been lovers.  He had detected the slight aura of an essence around her that he had immediately determined was Knight’s.  How could this be?  Their friendship was too new to ask such personal questions, but his inquiring brain had to know.  He flipped the switch to raise the soundproof panel in the back of the limousine.  The panel had been constructed to be vampire sound proof; George wouldn't hear what he was about to say to Natalie.

“Natalie?”  His voice was serious and she immediately sat up straight in her seat and looked at him.  Something told her he wanted to talk with her about something, but he wasn’t sure how to approach the subject. In the short time she'd known him she had already picked up on some of his body language, and now she was reading him loud and clear.  He had been kind to her and professed his protection and friendship, the least she could do was make him feel comfortable with whatever he wanted to discuss.

She reached over and covered his hand with hers.  “Dimitri, if we’re going to be friends then I find honesty and trust to be the necessary ingredients for a true lasting and close friendship. Nick and I always had that and I would like to have that with you. I know something is on your mind so feel free to ask me anything.”

He smiled before covering her hand with his other one.  “Natalie, I’m not sure I should ask or if I have a right to, but I’m very much like you; we’re both very curious about things.”  He looked down at his feet and kept his eyes on the toe of his shoe.  “I’m not sure what or how much Knight told you about us, but…”

“But what?’’

He looked up at her and decided he would be honest.  “Natalie, you carry Knight’s essence. Do you know what I’m talking about?”

“No.”

“I didn’t think so. I can’t believe he didn’t tell you.  How long ago did he bite you and how many times?”

She could feel her face starting to burn and knew it was flushed.  He put his arm around her.  “Listen, I don’t mean to embarrass you; I would never cause you any discomfort, but I think this is something you need to know.”

Suddenly Natalie felt fear, her heart sped up and her breathing became faster.  “Natalie, it’s okay.  I’m curious, yes, but more than that I think you need to know.”

She decided to be honest with him.  Everything about his approach to this conversation indicated he was just as uncomfortable as she was with discussing it. He must have felt it was important because otherwise she felt he never would have mentioned it.  She also wanted more information about the essence he had mentioned.

“Dimitri, I’ve told you that Nick and I love each other very much.  One night, about seven years ago, Nick was shot in the head. He forgot he was a vampire and that night we made love, mortal love.”  She got quiet as she remembered how beautiful that night had been.

“Are you telling me that Knight didn’t know what he was so the vampire stayed dormant while you made love and he didn’t take your blood?”

She looked up at him and nodded her head, acknowledging what he had asked.  “We had wanted to be together like that for several years, but he was always afraid he would take too much and hurt me.  The night he came home from the hospital, he didn’t know who or what he was, but he remembered how he felt about me. One thing led to another and things sort of went further than they ever had. I know I took a big risk that the Vampire could surface because of the extreme emotions he was feeling, but I was willing to take that chance.  I love him too much not to risk anything to be with him.  I would do it again if the opportunity arose.”

“But what about the bite?  He had to have bitten you at some time for you to carry his essence.”

“The night he disappeared was six years ago. I had asked him to make love to me. I told him to take my blood and if he took too much then he was to bring me across. I remember beautiful visions, his deep love and devotion for me and his dreams for us to have a life together.”  She bit her lower lip and waited, trying to calm her voice before continuing.  “That’s why I don’t know what happened.  He didn’t take too much, but the visions he shared with me were so over whelming that I think I passed out.  When I woke up, I was on his sofa with a pillow under my head and a blanket carefully draped over me. Somehow I knew immediately that he was gone.  His things were still there, but I knew what possessions he cherished the most and when I found them gone, along with some pictures he had of us together…well…it was then that I knew he had left without me.”

Suddenly the tears couldn’t be held back any longer.  Dimitri held her close and let her cry until she couldn’t cry any more.  “God, I’m sorry. You must think I’m such a whiner, weak…”

He pulled her cheek back down to his chest; his arms were wrapped gently, but protectively around her.  “No, Natalie, I don’t think that at all. I’ve known you for a short time, but I think you’re a very strong, intelligent and caring woman, but a woman who has fallen so deeply in love that she can’t survive without the other half of her; and Knight’s your other half. My friend, you’re not weak at all.  It takes a very strong woman to love one of us, you’ve done that and survived. I’ve crossed paths with Knight many times over the centuries.  I know him well enough to know that he’s an honorable man and I believe he had very good reasons for leaving you. I also believe if it were possible he’d return.  For your sake I hope he does return and I hope it’s soon.”  He stroked her hair and rubbed her back, soothing her, nothing more.

He had to tell her; it was clear that Knight for some reason hadn’t the time or wasn’t able to tell her.  “Natalie, when a vampire bites a mortal, that vampire’s essence is imprinted on the mortal.  You carry Knight’s essence. I sensed it the first night I met you, but I couldn’t determine if it was his; I assumed you were his, but I needed to make sure.”

She raised her head from his chest and looked at him.  “Dimitri, what are you saying?  What do you mean his?’  

“Shhh, it’s okay.  You carry his essence so other vampires will leave you alone.  Think of it as an extra protection.” He tried to ease her concern with humor.

“She sat up and pulled out of his arms, her eyes were wide with surprise.  “Are you telling me that I’m marked as his property or something like that?”

He knew she was a modern woman and this probably wasn’t going to sit well with her.  “Natalie, the essence will not harm you; it’s not the vampire virus that we carry in our blood.”

“You know about that?  I thought I was the only person that had figured out it was a virus.”

He smiled and gave her a quick hug.  “Natalie, I told you that I have a scientific mind too.  I think this friendship is going to be very educational for both of us.”

“Well, damn.  I carry Nick’s essence and I didn’t even know it.”

“No one will know except another vampire.  Why did you think George mentioned Brabant?  He sensed it, too.”

Nat felt her face start to flush.  “Oh this is just great! So that was what that look between you and George was about.  Now, every time I meet a vampire, they’ll know that I’m Nick’s property and how intimate we’ve been. Damn, him. I can’t believe he didn’t share that bit of information with me before he took my blood.”  She felt her anger start to rise. Not only had he left her, but he had also left her with a little souvenir.

“Natalie, don’t be angry with him.  I don’t know what pushed you two to attempt to make love that night or why he didn’t bring you across, but if you passed out then he didn’t have time to tell you.  If you two attempted this vampire love making in a heated moment without discussing it in detail beforehand then…well… his emotions probably over took him and he wasn’t thinking about what his bite would do to you.  His passion over rode his clear thinking; it’s not that unlike a heated mortal moment of lovemaking.  Also, it appears that he had to leave you rather quickly to have left without a note or phone call. I have to say in his defense that if his leaving was to protect you then leaving a note or calling you was out of the question; it would have endangered you.”

“But still…”

“If you had known about his essence marking you, would you have still allowed him to take your blood?  Be honest with yourself because your answer will be very important when and if you ever see him again.”

She thought about it.  “Yes, I still would have told him to make love to me. I love him, I want to share everything with him. I want him to know me totally, all my dreams, all my desires.”

“Oh my friend, rest assured, he knows; he knows it all.  During the sharing, the sharing of your blood with him, he saw all of your life and dreams, felt all of your emotions and now knows just how much you love him.  What you said you saw from him, he saw the same from you.  He knows, Natalie, he knows."  He slowly rubbed his hand down her arm, trying to sooth her.  "I find it amazing that the two of you have shared lovemaking both ways, mortal and vampire.  When I said you are a unique woman, that my dear, was so true.  No, you’re not a weak woman.  You’re the strongest woman I’ve ever known in my long existence.  Trust me when I say if there’s a way, Knight will be back for you. He’s a very intelligent man, too intelligent to give up a woman like you.”

“Thank you, Dimitri. I appreciate you informing me, but mostly I appreciate you making me be honest with myself.  I love Nick and no one, mortal or vampire will ever replace him.  If I can’t be with him, then I choose to be alone.”

Dimitri, smiled and felt a bit envious.  Knight truly had a treasure in this woman and he was totally convinced that if Knight was alive and could return he would if for no other reason than to claim what was rightfully his.  Natalie might not want to admit to being Nick’s, belonging to him, but he had never seen a more powerful love than he saw in Natalie.  He believed her; if she couldn’t be with Knight then no one would have her.

Before long she realized they were turning into her condo’s parking area.  She had enjoyed her time with Dimitri.  He was a fascinating man, full of surprises.  His honesty had been refreshing.  She felt at ease with him, as if she had known him for years.  It seemed as though they could talk about anything and she had a feeling that they would be friends for many years to come.  She somehow felt he was a man of honor, like Nick; it didn’t matter that they were vampires.  The one thing she had learned from Nick was that vampires could have honor, be honest, loyal and loving and most of all still possess a soul.    

Dimitri had been a perfect gentleman, but had touched her and held her when somehow he had known she needed it.  She had never been an affectionate type, but the loving gestures from Nick over the years had changed that.  Dimitri never once made her feel uncomfortable; it had felt like a friend comforting her.  She did trust him.  Amazing, she trusted him almost as much as she did Nick.

His age was amazing. She had always been intrigued with Nick and LaCroix’s ages, but her new friend made both men seem like babes.  That thought made her laugh.  She couldn’t help wondering what Nick would think of her hanging out with her new friend, a 3000 year-old vampire.  She knew what he would do if he ever found out and she didn’t want to think about it.  Nick would turn into The Knightmare for sure, pop his fangs and go on a rampage.  She remembered the time he had been angry and had taken his frustration out on the loft’s cement wall.  The wall had lost and it hadn’t been a pretty sight.

Well, Nick wasn’t here and if he were, he would just have to deal with it.  She liked Dimitri, liked spending time with him.  He laughed a lot and enjoyed her humor, that was what she needed right now.  He told her he had business to attend to, but that he would be honored if she would join him on Sunday night at his establishment, Midnight’s Dream Cove, for dinner.  She had almost declined, but then he had told her about the atmosphere of his restaurant and confided that it was mostly a mortal establishment, it had been too much of a temptation not to accept his offer. What kind of a restaurant would a vampire own that served mostly human customers?

He promised to send George with the car at eight; they would dine at eight-thirty.   She made it clear to Dimitri that this was a friend having dinner with a friend and nothing more. She wanted to make sure that there were no misunderstandings; this was a date.  Once again he assured her that he only wanted her friendship; he totally understood that she loved Knight.

He walked her to the door of her condo.  George had taken her luggage into the bedroom and left them standing in the entry.  Dimitri had taken her hand and said,  “Natalie, thank you for becoming my friend. I’m honored to know you and I hope we’ll be friends for a long time.  Rest assured, your friendship is all that I desire.”  George walked out and wished her a good night.  Dimitri kissed the back of her hand and told her that he looked forward to Sunday night. He told her to lock her door and left her doing just that.

~~~<~~@

Natalie had wakened the next morning feeling more relaxed and cheerful than she had in years.  She had known that spending time with Dimitri was part of the reason she felt more alive this morning.  In an odd way, spending time with him had made her feel closer to Nick.  She wasn’t substituting Dimitri for Nick, but it was spending time with someone that she could talk freely with without fear of letting the wrong comment slip.

She had eaten a quick breakfast that she ordered from the cafe across the street.  The beach club had sat up an umbrella and chaise lounge for her use.  She had packed her small cooler with snacks and water, taken her romance book and parked her butt on the beach the entire morning.  She had found the sound of the ocean calmed her, the seagull’s calls filled her with a contentment that she hadn’t felt in a long time.  She was glad she had decided on this location.  

Siesta Key had been a recommendation from Grace.  Her family had come here often in the past years and Grace had given it thumbs up for beauty and relaxation. Grace told her that from mid to late April was the best time to visit because all the kid’s spring breaks were over and the beaches were practically deserted until the beginning of summer.  Grace had been right; the entire morning, she had counted twelve people on the beach.  

She slept more than she read.  She couldn’t remember the last time she had fallen asleep on a beach.  This was definitely a much-needed vacation.  She only wished that Nick could be here.  She couldn’t help but remember the vision he had shared with her when he'd taken her blood, the vision of them together, with their children on the beach.  “Oh Nick.”  She had whispered softly, unaware that someone had actually heard her.

By early afternoon the weather had taken a turn for the worst. A storm rolled in off the ocean and chased Natalie back to her condo.  She showered and taken a taxi to rent a car.  After getting the car she had gone to the grocery store and then to the bookstore before returning to her condo for a quiet evening that included an early dinner and a good book. She would never know why was she still reading damn historical romances; but that seemed to be what she always purchased.  This latest one was The Devil in the Kilt. That title alone made her chuckle.  She couldn’t help wondering if Nick had ever worn a kilt; that she would have given a month’s salary, if not more, to see.  A vision of him in a kilt made her smile.  Damn, if only she knew he was alive and safe.  Her biggest fear was that something had happened to him, the thought always brought her to tears.

The late afternoon turned chilly after the rains passed through. But she couldn’t resist sitting on the balcony and enjoying the sound of the ocean.  After dinner she dressed appropriately, had taken a blanket, her glass of wine and a book to the balcony.  She spent several hours reading and relaxing.  A strange feeling came over her.  The hairs on the back of her neck stood up and a chill crept through her causing goose bumps.  The feeling had been so sudden that she'd dropped her book and almost turned over her glass of wine.  It was the same feeling that she had in the Toronto airport.

Was it her imagination?  She looked around at the neighboring condo’s balconies; they were all deserted.  She assumed the weather had kept everyone inside.  Leave it to a Canadian girl to brave the elements.  She looked below and noticed for the first time the parking lots were almost deserted. She looked at her watch and decided that most likely everyone had gone to dinner or out.  Again, she scanned the balconies that faced hers and didn’t see anyone. The sun had already set, dusk was just approaching, but she noticed there weren’t any lights in the condos that were facing hers.  The entire feeling of the condo complex made her uneasy; she had the distinct feeling that someone was watching her.  Was it Dimitri?  No, she didn’t think he would spy on her or frighten her.  Who ever or what ever was watching her made her feel uneasy.

Lambert, do what you always do, take charge of the situation.  She knew her heart was racing; her breathing was faster. If it was a vampire watching her then she knew she didn’t stand a chance if he wished her harm.  She made her decision; she was no longer afraid. What ever happened would happen.  She wouldn’t throw her life away, but she sure as hell wouldn’t run in fear for the rest of her life.  If Dimitri was right, then most of the Community had sworn to protect her. She spoke in a normal tone, but knew if it were a vampire that they could hear her.  

“I don’t know who you are or what you want.  I’m tired of the games, tired of looking over my shoulder. I don’t care any more.  Do you hear me?  Do what you want with me. Do it now or leave me be.  I’ve already lost all that is important to me so I really don’t give a damn.  I just want to be left alone.”  

Tears started to fill her eyes. She'd never been an emotional woman, but that had changed on the day Nick left her.  God, she wanted him back in her life, she didn’t care how, whether as friend or lover.  She hadn’t realized that she had spoken the last out loud, she had only been aware of thinking the words.  It was only a whisper, but it had been enough to be heard.  “Nick, where are you?”

She had sat in silence, waiting for what, she didn’t know.  When no one appeared she took her book, blanket and wine and started to go inside.  She paused at the door and looked over the balconies again.  She didn’t know why she stopped, but she had and before she knew why, she had spoken one final time before going inside for the night.

“You should know that I’m now under the protection of Dimitri of Toronto.  I would assume whoever you are you know he’s not someone to piss off.”  With that said, she had gone inside, locked the patio door and closed the blinds.  “Screw the bastard!” She said aloud and wondered who the hell had been watching her. One thing was sure, someone had and she was certain it was a vampire.  She decided that tomorrow night she would mention the incident to Dimitri and maybe he would be able to enlighten her as to who it was or what they wanted with her.

~~~<~~@

Natalie had gone out on her balcony the next morning.  She was still in her red silk nightgown and black robe with red floral print.  The weather had improved a bit; it was sunny, but still chilly.  The palm trees near her balcony were blowing briskly in the wind.  The wind whipped and tugged at her silk robe, opening it to expose her skimpily clothed body to the elements.   She had decided this trip the sweats and almost threadbare pink bathrobe weren’t making the trip; she had splurged on Victoria's Secret and decided her life was due for a change no matter how small.

She stretched and pulled the robe tighter around her body then belted it.   The waves were crashing, the surf was higher than normal for the gulf side; the sound drew her attention to the ocean.  It was beautiful, almost like a postcard, she only hoped the weather improved soon and she could enjoy some days on the beach. She felt a chill run up her back, but this time it was induced by the day’s temperature and not some paranormal experience.  Doubt hit her.  Was someone still watching her? With the cold temperatures it was hard to tell.  Nat, it’s daytime for God’s sake, even Dimitri as old as he is can’t go out in the daylight.

She rubbed her arms briskly trying to add some warmth.  “Well, Lambert, what are you going to do with yourself today?  It sure as hell doesn’t look like it’s going to be a beach day.”  She looked at her watch.  “And you have ten hours before Dimitri sends George with the car to pick you up for dinner.”  She laughed.  “You know, old girl, you’re turning 40 tomorrow and you know what they say about talking to yourself.”  

She had gone inside to get a cup of coffee, grabbed the throw blanket, swung it around her shoulders like a shawl and headed back out to the balcony to enjoy the view.  She had been sitting outside for some time and lost track of time.  She felt so at peace here. Briefly she had thought of never returning to Toronto, but what if Nick showed up and he couldn’t find her?  She knew she was holding out for a long shot, but she refused to give up on him. She would wait forever if she had to.  She glanced at her watch. Damn, how could she have been outside for two hours?  She hadn’t even realized how long she had been sitting outside until she looked at her watch.  Where had her thoughts drifted to?  She knew where and didn’t want to dwell on it because thoughts of how much she still missed him made her sad.

She had to get moving; it wasn’t like her to waste time.  Whoa, wasting time was what vacations were supposed to be about; to hell with time.  As long as she was dressed and ready when George showed up tonight then she could waste as much of her damn time as she wanted.  What better day to go shopping?  Maybe she could waste time going from dress shop to dress shop. In the parade of shops that she had all intentions of marching through perhaps she would find something special to wear to dinner tonight.

She had brought two dressy outfits with her from home, but she had the urge to go shopping and enjoy herself.  Recently she had made a list of 40 things she planned to change in her life.  From now on, she would go with her urges; she thought that it was number twenty-four on her list. The other one was to enjoy life; that one she remembered as number five on her list.  “Okay, shopping it is.”  Perhaps I’ll pop in a salon and treat myself to a manicure and pedicure while I’m at it.  She quickly got ready and took off for her day.

~~~<~~@

Natalie was applying her lipstick when the doorbell rang.  She opened it to find George standing with his hat tucked under his arm.  “Dr. Lambert, are you ready?”

She smiled at George.  “Yes, I am, but only if you call me Natalie.”

“Oh miss, I couldn’t do that.”

“Yes you can and if anyone,” she winked. “I mean anyone, reprimands you, tell them that I insisted and wouldn’t come with you unless you called me that.”  She smiled.

George broke into a big smile.  “Okay, Natalie.  Shall we go?”  This woman was unique, just like Dimitri said.  George could tell she was full of life and he would bet she could hold her own even with the toughest of vampires.  From what he had heard from friends in Toronto, she survived several encounters with LaCroix and that in itself was a miracle; she had survived.

Dimitri had talked to him on the way to Sarasota after they had dropped Natalie off last night.  He hadn’t revealed much except that she was a special lady and was still very much in love with Brabant. Brabant had disappeared six years ago and Natalie hadn’t heard anything from him and didn’t even know if he was still alive.  

Dimitri commented that the type of love that Natalie had for Brabant came along only once in a lifetime whether it be a mortal or immortal lifetime and Brabant was a fool to ever have left her unless it was to protect her.  He also confided to George that he would almost bet his life that that was exactly why Brabant had left her because no man, or vampire, would leave a woman like Natalie.  George had been with Dimitri too long not to recognize the fact that his friend and employer was deeply attracted to Dr. Lambert and he would bet a bit jealous of Brabant.  If Brabant wasn’t still in the beautiful doctor’s heart he had no doubt that Dimitri would pursue the lady.  Over the centuries he had never known him to be attracted to mortal women, but there was no doubt that the doctor was an exception.

~~~<~~@

Natalie arrived at Midnight’s Dream Cove and was immediately enchanted.  Dimitri had been right, the establishment did have an atmosphere like nothing she'd ever seen.  The restaurant was built on a pier in a quiet deserted cove. There were two parts to the restaurant.  Nat could see an inside dining area across the pier, but where she stood, at the entrance, was the outside dining.  

The outside was a pavilion; tables were placed strategically for intimate dining.  Each table had a white linen cloth; a candle with a fresh wildflower candle ring sat in the center of each table. Tropical vines covered every inch of the pavilion and thousands of tiny white lights were woven among the vines on the over-head trellis.  She noticed the people who were already seated and having wine with dinner had silver ice buckets on stands, placed next to their tables.  Each ice bucket held a bottle of wine and a bouquet of fresh wild flowers. Hundreds of candles lit the pavilion, the candles and tiny white lights being the only source of light.  A handsome man in a black tuxedo was seated at a black baby grand piano, playing Somewhere My Love.  She could see the water on the far side of the pier; there were candles placed on what appeared to be floating lily pads.  Everything was beautiful and she was glad that she had accepted Dimitri’s invitation.

Dimitri saw Natalie the moment she'd stepped into the pavilion.  She was beautiful and if he'd a normal heart rate he was sure it would have skipped a beat.  She wore a black silk dinner dress.  The top was fitted to the waist, with tiny straps on her shoulders.  She had a black scarf draped around her lower back and over her arms. The skirt of the dress had a slight flare and stopped mid calf.  Around her neck she wore a thin gold chain with a single diamond pendant and a pair of small diamond earrings adorned her ears. Simple and elegant; that alone spoke of the type of woman she was. Her auburn hair was loose and swirled around her shoulders. She was beautiful and sexy and he doubted she knew it; He found her enticing.  Yes, Knight was a lucky man.

She saw Dimitri approaching her from the inside dining area.  He gently took her shoulders in his hands and smiled at her.  “My dear friend, you are exquisite tonight.” He leaned forward and kissed her on the forehead.  “So my dear, how do you like the Cove?”

“Oh Dimitri, you weren’t exaggerating when you said it was beautiful, mysterious and enchanting.  It’s all of those things and more. I’ve never seen anything like this.”

He smiled; the smile went all the way to his eyes and she could have sworn she saw flecks of gold dancing there.  “I’m glad you approve.”  He took her arm and escorted her toward a table that was isolated from the others.  “I thought we would dine here so that we could talk freely.”  He pulled her chair out and allowed her to sit before taking his own seat.  He knew he was staring, but he couldn’t help it.

“What?  What’s wrong?’

He dropped his head and looked at his plate.  If he could blush he was sure he would have. How could a mortal woman have such an effect on him?  He looked at her. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to stare.  Your hair is reflecting the light and I was admiring it.  You’re a very beautiful woman, Natalie.”

Natalie couldn’t help but blush.  “You know Dimitri, you’re good for my ego.  I’m very flattered. Tomorrow I’ll be 40 years old and to have someone tell me that I’m beautiful at that age, well, it makes a girl’s head spin.”  She laughed.

Dimitri reached across the table and caught her hand in his giving it a light squeeze.  “Natalie, you are beautiful, don’t ever doubt that. You’re always going to be beautiful and I’m sure I’ll still be saying that to you when you’re ninety.”  He gave her a wicked grin.

“And you’re still going to be handsome and look young so I’m not too sure you’ll think a ninety year old woman is beautiful.” She laughed again and couldn’t help but swat his hand with her free one.

“Well, maybe we should make a bet on the future of that and see who wins.” He arched a brow in challenge.

“And just what should be the payment for the winner?”

“Let's see, if I win, I get a night to take you to dinner and dancing. If you win, you have my services in whatever capacity you see fit.”  

Natalie couldn’t’ help laughing.  “Dimitri, I can’t see you taking a ninety year old woman dancing; dinner maybe, but dancing?”

“Natalie if the woman is you then I can see it.  You’re going to be just as feisty at ninety as you are now."

They both laughed.  Dinner had been wonderful, the grilled tuna with a citrus sauce was the best meal Natalie could ever remember having.  The wine Dimitri had chosen to accompany her meal had been from Germany and he proceeded to tell her that he had owned the vineyard for almost two hundred years.  He told her about the estate, how he had acquired it and that he hoped that she would visit it sometime when he was there.  She agreed that she would, perhaps sometime soon.  He promised to take her into neighboring Bamburg, a small ‘off the tourist beat’ village; there were many things he wished to show her there.  

They had finished dinner, but Dimitri found out her secret weakness.  He ordered a Midnight Passion delivered to the table, it was a whipped chocolate mousse over raspberries.  She told him a dessert like that should be labeled on the menu as wickedly sinful.  He laughed and told her that even though he had no idea what it tasted like, according to the customers comments he agreed.  

Natalie couldn’t believe she was actually enjoying herself. How long had it been since she'd been to dinner with a handsome man and thoroughly enjoyed it.  She remembered; it was six years ago when Nick had taken her to dinner at the top of the CN tower; they had celebrated her birthday and the six-year anniversary of their meeting.

It had been a beautiful night, they'd talked about all the things they had shared through the years and briefly discussed the one night that they had made love, mortal love.  She told him that she would never forget that night and she would never regret taking the risk to be with him. She also confided to him that she would take any additional risks if it meant they could be together.  She had seen the love and desire in his eyes that night.  She had also seen what Nick hadn’t known she'd witnessed, a blood tear in his eye.  He'd turned to the window and made a comment about the evening, but not before she had seen the tear.  

She'd sworn her love and loyalty to him that night and also her faithfulness. She'd finally told him that unless she could love him, be with him, then she chose not to be with any man.  He had squeezed her hand and pulled her up from her chair in to his arms before leading her to the dance floor; there he held her and whispered beautiful and loving words for her ears only.  They'd left the restaurant and returned to his loft where she had lain in his arms on the sofa in front of the fireplace until late morning. It had been her last birthday with Nick, six months later he was gone.  She felt the tears sting the back of her eyes.

Dimitri had been watching Natalie.  She had become quiet and he could see that she was fighting with her emotions.  He had no doubt that she was remembering other birthdays, other celebrations with Knight and that he was the cause of the sadness that had come over her.  He couldn’t imagine what it would be like to have a woman love him as Natalie loved Knight.  He had been right when he told George that love like that only came along once in a lifetime.

He reached across the table and took her hand.  “Natalie. Do you want to talk about it? I have good ears and big shoulders if you need them.”

“Dimitri, I don’t have to tell you what my thoughts were. For tonight, I don’t want to think about Nick. I’m enjoying myself too much to let my thoughts and memories destroy tonight. You’ve made it very special and I appreciate that.  No, I don’t want to talk about it. Let’s enjoy the night.”

“Well, in that case, may I have this dance?” He stood, gave her a slight bow and took her hand.  He led her to the dance floor and took her in his arms.  The pianist was playing a slow version of Unchained Melody.  Natalie relaxed in his arms, it felt good to have a friend to hold her. She laid her head on his chest and he wrapped his arms around her back. He tucked the top of her head under his chin and pulled her closer.  He could easily fall in love with this woman, no wonder Knight had.  She was one of a kind and very special.

Natalie couldn’t help thinking about Nick.  Once again the tears threatened to flow and this time a few did escape.  Dimitri was holding her just like Nick always had.  She knew it was unfair to Dimitri, but just for this one song she wanted to pretend it was Nick holding her. This was their song and it felt good to fantasize that it was Nick and he was here celebrating her 40th birthday.

Too quickly the song ended and Dimitri stood holding her. He waited a few seconds before kissing the top of her head and releasing her.  “Natalie, are you okay?” he whispered. He felt the dampness of his shirt and knew that it was from her tears.  “Dimitri, I’m sorry. I’ve had a wonderful evening, but would you take me home?”

“Of course, Natalie.”  He kissed her on the temple before releasing her.  “Let me find George and I’ll take you home.” He led her back to the table before briefly leaving her to locate George.  

The ride back to Siesta Key was quiet.  He waited for her to make the first attempt at conversation.  When she didn’t he took her hand.  “Natalie. I’m worried about you.  What can I do to help?”

She took his hand and intertwined her fingers with his.  “Just be my friend, that’s all I ask.”  She looked up at him, her eyes full of tears.  “That's what I need.”

He couldn’t resist. He wrapped his arm around her, pulled her to him and held her.  “Cry, my friend, if it’ll help. I’m here.”

With his permission, the tears did come.  She had thought she had cried until she couldn’t cry any more, but once the fountain was turned on, there was no stopping it.  He wrapped his other arm around her and gently rubbed his hand up and down her back, trying to calm her.  

“God, I love him, Dimitri. I’ll always love him.  I have to find him; I’ll never rest until I do and I know he’s alive.”

“I know, my dear, I know.  I wish there was something I could do to help you.’

“You already have. You’re here listening to me and dealing with me ruining every shirt you own.” She laughed as she sat up and tried to compose herself.  

“Natalie, you have my permission to ruin all my shirts if it makes you feel better.” He gave her a wicked smile that caused her to laugh.  “This is the way I like to see you my friend, laughing. You should laugh more often.”

“I’ll try. You know…I use to laugh a lot in the old days.  I haven’t had much to laugh about or anyone to laugh with in a long time.  Nick was more than my love; he was my best friend.  We'd been best friends a long time before we became lovers.  We shared so many things. It seems we were always laughing.  The last year, before he disappeared, had been difficult.”  She told him about all the set backs and false hopes they had experienced.

Dimitri was curious. She had explained to him that she wanted Knight to bring her across if he took too much, and he wondered if she would freely follow her love into the darkness.  “Natalie?  If Knight comes back, what will you do?”

“What do you mean?”

“If he does come back, nothing will have changed.  You’re still mortal and he'll still be a vampire.  Do you want to be with him?  I guess what I’m asking is would you be willing to follow him into the darkness, to be brought across, in order to be with him eternally?”

She didn’t hesitate.  “Of course. Yes, I would want that. Nick wouldn’t approve because he hates what he is and his damn thirteenth century religious beliefs make him think he’s condemning my soul to Hell, but I don’t believe that.”

“What do you believe?”  He was intrigued with what her answer might be.

“I believe that there is good and evil within the vampire community just as there is in the mortal community. I know that vampires today don’t have to kill to survive.  Even if you should choose to live off human blood instead of cow, there’s the donated, bottled vintage.  If I’m ever brought across, that would be my choice. I would never kill.”  She was quiet and he knew her thoughts had drifted.

“Natalie, what else are you thinking?”

She looked up at him.  “Dimitri, I’ll never agree to be brought across unless I’m too old or know for sure that I can’t have children.”

“That’s important to you?”

She smiled and felt her heart grow warm with her dream, Nick’s dream.  “Only if they’re Nick’s children.  I would give my life to give him a child.  That’s the one thing I think he desires more than regaining his mortality.  If I could do that for him, then I would gladly, no matter the cost.”

Dimitri didn’t know what to say or how to respond to that confession.  “Natalie.” His voice was barely audible, but she'd heard and looked at him.  “I don’t know what to say.  I wish that I could grant your heart’s desire, but I’m afraid you dream of the impossible.  This cold, dead heart aches for you, for what you desire and can never have, for that I’m truly sorry.”

She squeezed his hand again.  “Thank you, for understanding…and for being my friend. I haven’t had anyone to talk to.” She chuckled.  “This is not something I can talk about; vampires having babies.  I don’t think so! The Council would have me killed for sure and the mortals would think I had lost my mind.”

He did love her sense of humor.  He laughed and agreed.  “So true, my dear, so true.” He didn’t know if he should mention it to her, but he felt she needed to know that she had an option.  “Natalie, if you should ever find yourself ready to join us, and Knight isn’t around or won’t do it, know that you can come to me.  I promise that if you should decide, I would be honored to have you as my daughter. I would teach you and protect you, but I would never try to possess you as LaCroix has done with Knight.  You’re too much of a full spirit and I would never want to crush that.”

She was shocked at his offer and it must have shown on her face because he quickly tried to ease her concerns.  “I would never expect anything in return, please remember that.  I would gladly remain your friend for eternity if that is all you ever desired.”  He saw her face relax and knew that she believed him.

“Thanks, I’ll remember that.”  The car came to a stop and they both realized that they had arrived at Natalie’s condo.  George opened the door and offered her his hand.  “Thank you, George.” She smiled and gave him a wink.

“You’re very welcome, Natalie.”

Dimitri didn’t say anything, but he gave George a frown.  Natalie and Dimitri entered the elevator.  She hadn’t missed the look.  “Don’t you say one word to George.” She demanded. “I told him to call me Natalie and I won’t have it any other way. So don’t go scolding him.”  She hadn’t realized it but she was pointing her finger firmly in his chest to emphasis each word.

He took her hand and kissed her finger.  “I wouldn’t dream of going against your wishes and bringing your wrath down upon me.” He teased.

“Good and don’t go forgetting it.” She laughed.

“Natalie, you are so refreshing. I’ve enjoyed this evening and your company.  I’m glad I met you. You’ve certainly livened things up for me, pun intended.” He grinned.

“Well, that seems to be my specialty, livening up the undead.”

He wrapped his arm around her back and walked her toward her door, both of them laughing.  It was then that Dimitri felt a presence.  His protective instincts kicked in. He turned toward her and that’s when she had seen that his eyes had changed to gold.  It had shocked her and he had felt her body tense under his arm.  

“Natalie, don’t be afraid; I won’t harm you.”

“I know, I was just shocked; this is the first time I’ve seen you…”

He placed his fingers over her lips and leaned toward her. He held her head against his mouth so she could hear him.  “Go to the car and tell George to protect you.  There’s a vampire inside your condo and I’m not sure who it is,”  he barely whispered.

She pulled out of his embrace.  “No, I won’t hide!  I felt the presence yesterday and I dared them to show themselves, to come for me or to leave me be. I won’t run and hide like a coward.”  

Before he could stop her she had unlocked the door and barged in.  The lights were off and she immediately flipped on the light switch.  “Oh my God!”  Nick!!!!  Nick!!!”

She started to run toward him, but Dimitri grabbed her arm and pulled her behind him in a protective gesture.

“Let me go, what are you doing?”  She demanded.  

“Hello, Natalie.”  Nick’s voice was low, his tone lethal; it was then that she had seen his eyes were golden as Dimitri’s. She looked up and had seen that Dimitri’s jaw was clenched; his eyes were still gold.

The two vampires stood staring at each other. It was then that Natalie realized that both were daring the other to react.  She suddenly felt like an animal caught between two hungry wolves.  She had only seen one vampire fight, that time when Nick had killed Spark during the asteroid scare.  Once in a lifetime was enough for her; she certainly didn’t want these two going at each other.  Once again she tried going to Nick, but Dimitri’s hold became tighter.  “What the hell are you doing?  Let me go, Dimitri.”

Dimitri’s voice was a warning.  “Not until I know you’re safe and he won’t harm you.’

“For God’s sake, Dimitri.  Are you serious?  This is Nick, he would never harm me.”

“Are you so sure, Nat?”  Nick’s voice was deadly.  

She looked at him as if he was crazy; it was then that she saw the anger.  He was barely in control. She had seen that look before and recognized it, but it had never been directed at her.  “What the hell’s the matter with you, Nick?”  

“Knight, leave the lady out of this.  If you have a problem then take it up with me. I won’t let you hurt her.”

“So now you’re her protector?  For how long?”

“Nick?” Natalie had no idea what was wrong with him. All she wanted to do was run to him and hold him.

“Yes, Natalie is under my protection.  If you have a problem with that then I suggest we take this disagreement elsewhere.”  Dimitri still held Natalie’s arm and had once again pulled her behind him, shielding her with his body.

Natalie had heard kids coming down the walkway and closed the front door with her foot. She didn’t need an audience witnessing this confrontation.  “Whoa! Time out! You two aren’t taking this disagreement anywhere.  In my opinion there’s nothing to disagree on.  Nick, stop it! Dimitri is my friend and he’s only trying to protect me.”

“Just how close a friend is he, Nat?  How long did it take you after I left to turn to him?  What is it with you and vampires?  Is that the only type of man that can satisfy your hunger, you’re hunger for the abnormal, the thrill?”

Nat felt as if knives had stabbed her heart. This couldn’t be Nick, her Nick, talking to her like this.  “Damn you! What the hell right do you have to talk to me like that?”  She pulled out of Dimitri’s hold and flung herself at Nick. She slapped him hard across the face and drew back in horror at the violence she had released on him.

Nick grabbed her arm, swung her around, pulled her back to his chest, holding her firmly against him with his other arm around her waist. He pulled her hair away from her neck.  She could feel his breath on her neck.  “Did you miss me, Nat?  How long did it take before you found another vampire to replace me?  Did you tell him that you loved him?  That you wanted to spend your life with him?”  

Nick knew he was out of control, but he couldn’t stop his reactions to what he'd witnessed at the restaurant. He had heard what she'd told Dimitri.  “For tonight, I don’t want to think about Nick. I’m enjoying myself too much to let my thoughts and memories destroy tonight. You’ve made it very special and I appreciate that.  No, I don’t want to talk about it. Let’s enjoy the night.”
 
Then he'd seen her in Dimitri’s arms, seen how she'd relaxed in his embrace while the pianist played Unchained Melody; that had always been their song. How could she so easily surrender to another man, another vampire?  Hadn't he meant anything to her? Didn’t it matter who held her, who loved her?  He had taken to the night sky and flown away after witnessing that; he couldn’t bare to hear any more or see any more. His Nat in another man's, another vampire’s arms was just too much to watch.

Again, Nick pulled her hair from her neck and lowered his mouth.  "Nat, did he make your heart race?  Did you offer yourself to him?"  Nick's tongue seductively stroked the length of her neck several times.  "Did his touch make you feel like this?  Can any Vampire make your heart race, your blood rush with desire?  Does his touch make you feel sensations like I do?  Don't tell me that I don't make your blood rush with desire because I've felt it,  I've tasted your desire...your body's lust for me to possess you."

Dimitri was watching Knight lick Natalie's neck. He was aroused, his beast was beginning to stir. He pushed his Vampire back and refused it's release.  Two aroused vampires with one mortal woman could be dangerous.   Damn Knight, the man needed to get control.  Dimitri could see the anger in Natalie's face.  She was embarrassed at Knight's accusations, her face was flushed.  But Knight's words had also hurt her.  Dimitri could see it in her eyes.  Dimitri found it hard not to hit Knight for the emabarrasement and pain he was causing Natalie.  But he would wait, not get involved, unless there was a threat to her safety.

Dimitri had been surprised when Natalie had unexpectedly pulled out of his hold, but he'd been more shocked at her slapping Knight.  He'd been surprised at Knight's control of his Beast when Natalie slapped him.  No one attacked a vampire and lived; it was the vampire instinct to strike back without thought.  Knight was pissed, but he hadn't retaliated.  Dimitri knew then that Knight would never harm Natalie.  He had been watching Knight and now it was obvious to him, if not to Natalie, the man was jealous.  He had seen that look before; this had nothing to do with possession, her belonging to Knight, Knight marking her as his own, this was all about Knight being so blinded by his love for her that he couldn’t see that he was making an ass out of himself.

Suddenly, Dimitri couldn’t help but see the humor in the situation.  Natalie loved the man with her very soul and had been totally faithful, but Knight was so full of anger and jealousy he couldn’t think straight.  This would be comical if it weren’t so damn scary for Natalie’s safety.  He had no doubt that Knight would never hurt her intentionally, but as angry as he was, he might forget his strength.  Dimitri crossed his arms across his chest, leaned against the wall and started to laugh.  His eyes had turned back to their dark brown.

Natalie had started to say something, but Dimitri’s laughter got both Nick and Nat’s attention.  “I’m glad your finding humor in this.”  Nick’s voice sounded more frustrated than threatening, but his eyes were still golden.  

Nat looked at Dimitri as if he had grown another head; that only made Dimitri laugh harder.  “Knight, you’re a fool.  The woman is in love with you.  She would give her life for you.  She’s been absolutely faithful for the six years you’ve been gone and all she can do when I’m with her is talk about you and how much she loves you.  Jealousy doesn’t suit you, Knight. I’ve known you for centuries and I’ve never seen you out of control, especially over a woman.  Tell her you love her and get it over with.”

Natalie tried to look at Nick.  He relaxed his hold enough to allow her to turn in his arms, to face him.  His eyes changed back to the beautiful shade of blue that she loved.  Nick saw the anger, the hurt in her eyes.  God, what had he done?  Had his jealousy, his words, hurt her beyond her forgiveness?  He took her face into his hands and lifted her chin upward.  “Is it true, Nat?  Do you still love me?”

Nat saw the doubt that she had always seen in his eyes.  Damn him, he had a lot of explaining and apologizing to do.  Where the hell had he been for the last six years?  Why did he think she had been unfaithful and what gave him the right to be jealous after he had left her without any word?  When she looked in his eyes she knew she was lost.  She caressed his cheek with her palm and felt her heart turn over.  

“Damn you, Nick! I should stake you myself or shove garlic in that filthy mouth of yours.”

That got a chuckle out of Dimitri, but neither on them heard him because they were too caught up in the moment. Dimitri was enjoying watching this pair. Yes, they had a passion and love that went beyond what anyone hoped for in a relationship; what they had was very special.

Nick tenderly brushed her hair from her face and tucked the stray strands behind her ear. She covered his hand with hers; she had missed these small loving gestures from Nick.  “Nick, I never stopped loving you. I told you that if I can’t have you then I don’t want anyone.  God, I’ve missed you.” As tears filled her eyes she buried her face in his chest and wrapped her arms around his waist.  It felt so good to feel his arms around her. Dimitri’s arms had felt good when he had comforted her, but they had never made her feel like this.  

“Shhh, it’s okay, Nat. I’m here.  I’m never going to leave you again.  I swear it.”  He buried his face in her hair and inhaled her scent; it was unique and totally Nat’s; a mixture of lemon and roses, tart and sweet just like her. Nick kissed the top of her head and pulled her closer to him. He couldn’t get close enough to her or hold her tight enough.  “Nat, I’m sorry. I’ll explain everything, I promise.  Shhh, Love, don’t cry.  I'm truely sorry, sorry for everything.”  He pushed her from him enough to take her face in his hands.  “Look at me Nat.  I’m here and I’m never going to leave you. I swear nothing will ever come between us again. I can’t loose you.  Do you hear me?  You’re my life, my light, my love.”

He lowered his mouth to hers, his tongue slowly asking acceptance and she opened to him. He eagerly thrust his tongue into her mouth, feeling her warmth. He was home.  This was where he belonged, to Nat and to her love. Her tongue met his and the power of him within her ignited an ember that she had thought no longer existed; the flame shot through her and once again felt the burning desire that only Nick could cause her body to feel. Her arms wrapped around him and before she'd known what he was doing he had lifted her and she had wrapped her legs around his waist. Their kiss had deepened and they were unaware of anything but each other.

Dimitri was amused by this performance; he felt like a voyeur and was growing uncomfortable with the scene that was playing out in front of him.  He could also smell Natalie’s arousal and was sure that she was unaware of it.  Knight had his lady back and Natalie was happy; for that he was grateful.  He still wanted to hear Knight’s story of where he had been all these years and why he had left her, but that could wait.

“Well, if you two kids will excuse me; I think I should be going.”  Nick had forgotten all about Dimitri and so had Natalie.  Nick released Natalie, but kept his arm possessively around her.  Natalie's face was flushed and she briefly buried her face in Nick's chest before reluctantly looking at Dimitri.  “Dimitri, I think I owe you an apology. I’m sorry about my behavior.  I know I jumped to conclusions, but I couldn’t stand the thought of…”

“Knight, no apology necessary. If I loved Natalie like you do I would have reacted the same way.”  Dimitri extended his hand and Nick accepted.  “Natalie is a very special lady and I admire her.  But we’re only friends, good friends, and I want to remain so. I hope you don’t have a problem with that. I want nothing more than friendship.  Can you handle that?”

Natalie looked up at Nick and he saw the love she had for him. How could he deny her anything?  He trusted her completely. He had been a fool.  “I don’t have a problem with it, not at all.  Thank you for putting her under your protection; I’m in your debt.”

“Not at all.  Just take care of her and love her. But you better never hurt her again.”  The tone of his voice was even, but the threat was there.

“Don’t worry, I won’t. I’m never leaving her, nothing and no one will ever come between us again.” Nick was friendly, but Dimitri caught the warning and so did Nat.

She rolled her eyes at the two vampires.  “You know, you two are so much alike, you could be twins.  Gees, give it a rest guys; stop with the threats.”  She pulled out of Nick’s arms, went to Dimitri and hugged him tight.  “Thank you for everything and I hope you’ll stay in touch.” She kissed him on the cheek before returning to Nick, who protectively took her under his arm.

“I will, don’t worry.”  He laughed and couldn’t resist teasing her one last time. “I have to make sure that Knight is behaving himself and treating you well.”  

She couldn’t help it, she punched him in the arm. “Natalie, you’re so much fun to tease.”

“That she is.” Nick agreed.

~~~<~~@

After Dimitri had left, Nat turned to Nick.  “Okay, Knight, spill.”

“What?”

Don’t give me that 'little boy' smile because it’s not going to work. I’ve had six years to perfect my immunity to it.  I want to know what the hell happened six years ago and where the hell have you been. I want answers and I want them now.”

Nick took her hand, gave her the 'little boy' smile and urged her toward the sofa. He sat down and pulled her down next to him, wrapped his arm around her shoulders and kissed her temple.  “Do you want the long version or the short?”

“The short, you can fill in details later.”

Nick sighed.  “Nat,  when I took your blood on the night we attempted to make love, I wasn't sure I'd be able to stop, but I saw all the love you have for me, the dreams you have of us together and I did stop; I didn’t take too much.  I don't know why, but you passed out. I knew you were safe because I could hear your heartbeat.  I put you on the sofa and that’s when LaCroix appeared through the skylight.  I was so wrapped up in the moment, I had no idea how long he had been watching us. “

“I thought I had heard his voice, but my last memories are all foggy.”  Nat admitted.

Nick kissed her temple while his hand kept caressing her arm.  “We had a long discussion and he told me the Enforcers were coming to take care of you, but that if I left he had it on good authority that they would leave you alone.  He said that together we drew too much attention and it was just a matter of time before someone figured out what I was.  He told me the Council wasn’t worried about you alone because if you started talking about vampires everyone would think you were crazy.  Nat, it all made sense; at least it did back then. I was so distraught over Tracy and then the thought that my presence was causing you to be in danger; it was just too much.  He convinced me that if I left you and didn't contact you, you'd remain safe.  He said the Council owed you that much for your past loyalties and for the vaccine that you created to save vampires from the virus that was killing them.”  He paused, but knew he had to tell her the rest.  "Nat, there was another reason for leaving.  After tasting you, I knew that no amount of your blood would ever be enough.  God, Nat...I saw the love that you have for me and it warmed this cold dead body like nothing ever has.  I wanted more of you.  I never wanted to stop that feeling. I stopped that time but I wasn't sure I could if we shared again.  It was too dangerous for me to stay near you.  I was afraid I couldn't control myself."

“Okay, I can understand.  But, Nick, why didn't you tell me about your fear of loosing control?"

"Nat..."

She saw his discomfort of discussing this issue so she quickly changed the discussion to something less personal.  "Nick, I believe you about LaCroix.  Where did you go?  Did you go back to him?”

“No, Nat, I think that’s what he thought I would do, but I didn’t.  I was so depressed about leaving you that I had to do something to try to forget. Not about you, I could never do that, but forget about what we would never have.  Also, I knew that if I didn’t totally break contact with you, I would be tempted to see you again and I knew if I did that I would want you, want to share again.  I couldn't take the chance and if the Enforcers ever found out, they might still come after you. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done.   I knew the only way I could stay away from you was to go as far away as I could so I headed down to South America, to the rain forest.  I threw myself back in to my study of archeology and that’s where I met Professor Ralph D. Finley, a fascinating man to say the least and a brilliant one, too.”

“Wow, South America?  Is that where you’ve been all this time?’

“Yes, the entire six years.  But, I’ve had a friend in the Community watching over you and reporting to me.  Recently, his reports started to alarm me.  He told me you were taking too many chances and didn’t seem to be happy.  He told me that you hadn't moved on with your life...that you had isolated yourself...that you weren't seeing anyone and hadn't since I'd left."  He paused, remembering how when he'd first left that he'd wanted her to move on with her life, but how relieved he'd been when he'd discovered that she'd never dated and showed no interest in doing so.   "Nat, I was worried. It's not like you to be careless of where you go, what you do.  When I heard how unhappy you were I felt guilty for leaving you.  I started to think maybe I had made the wrong decision to leave, but I knew I hadn’t because my leaving was protecting you.  But I couldn't stay away, I had to see  I was in Toronto a little over a week before you came here on this vacation.

“You were in Toronto last week and you didn’t contact me? Nick!”

“I know, but let me finish.  I contacted Janette. She told me you had gone to the Raven and she had seen you with Dimitri.  The next thing I knew you were flying off to Florida.  I went to the airport and was going to try to see you, but Joe had taken you to the airport and I didn’t want him to see me and start asking questions.  I also didn’t want anyone seeing me until I could talk to you first.  I followed you here, but then I found Dimitri here. I've been watching you. I heard what you said on the beach and then on the balcony.  I didn't want to frighten you, for you to think it was another vampire.  I almost came over to this condo several times, but I honestly didn't know how to approach you, it's been so long. After I heard you on the beach, I thought that you still loved me, needed me, but then I heard what you said to Dimitri at the restaurant.  I guess I didn't hear enough because I jumped to the wrong conclusion.  Nat, I thought I had lost you, lost you to him. I'm sorry for the things I said.  I wish I could take back the cruel words...I'm so sorry.  Damn, I was so confused. I was hearing one thing and seeing another..."  He ran his fingers through his hair.  "Nat, I know what I said earlier hurt you, deeply hurt you.  I could see it in your eyes...I'm so sorry."

"Nick, the words did hurt but I can understand.  The pain you felt, the misunderstanding of my relationship with Dimitri...I would feel the same if I were to see you with another woman, heard you speak the same words to another woman.  I do understand, but it hurts to know that you didn't trust me, that you would think I could love another, give myself to another and especially a vampire.  I told you once and I meant it then and mean it now, if I can't love you and be with you then I don't want anyone."

He pulled her in to his arms and buried his face in her hair.  "God, Nat, I don't deserve you or your love.  I've been an ass, a fool and I've hurt you so much."

"Its okay, Nick, but never again.  My heart can't stand any more heartbreak."

"I know love and I promise, never again." Nick said and pulled her tighter in to his arms.  

They held each other in silence until Nat decided she needed more answers.  "I thought I saw Janette at the Raven that night, the night I met Dimitri, but she wouldn't answer me.  Why?"

"She told me about that.  She said she didn't know what to say to you; she wanted to talk to me first.  Hon, she didn't know why I had left you and that confused her.  Nat, she knows how much I love you, that you're my one true love.  This is why she was confused with why I had left."

"How often have you talked to Janette since you left Toronto?"

"Hon, I haven't.  I told you she didn't know where I was, no one did.  Last week, when I spoke with Janette, it was the first time I had spoken to her since…”

“Since you brought her back across?”

“You knew about that?”

“Nick, I’m not stupid.  After finding the bites on the necks of those two guys, I put two and two together which added up to you saving Janette’s life by bringing her back across. I understand, you couldn’t let her die.”

He kissed her on the temple and gave her a hug.  “You’re right, I couldn’t let her die and Nat, she was dying.  We’ll talk about Janette later, I promise.  But it was when I talked to Janette that she told me that most of the Community was in your debt and they were protecting you. I knew then that once again, LaCroix had deceived me.  Janette had also heard that the Council had decided to ignore our relationship as long as we didn't do anything to bring attention to ourselves.  Janette told me I had to find you and tell you.  Her loving Robert was what made her finally understand my love for you.”

“Oh Nick!”  She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him.  Before the moment became heated with passion he stopped her. “Nat, there’s more.”

“Nick, what could be better than us being given the green light by the Council and the Community?”  

Nick laughed and she started to get very curious.  “What?  Nick!”  

“Nat, remember me telling you about the professor in South America, Professor Finley?”

“Yes, what about him?”

“Nat, he’s a vampire and a very interesting vampire.  He’s found a secret deep in the rain forest that has opened up all types of possibilities to me.”

“What do you mean?”

“Nat, three centuries ago he fell deeply in love with a mortal.”  He smiled.  “Sound familiar?"  She nodded.  "They had the same problems that we do.  He wouldn’t bring her across for the same reasons I don’t want to bring you across.”

“What happened?”

“It’s rather sad.  They were never able to consummate their love; she remained loyal to him until she died her mortal death.  But the professor was determined that if he or another vampire should ever love a mortal that things would be different.  All these years he’s been searching for a cure and Nat, he’s found something that is almost as good as a cure.”

“Nick! What are you saying?”  Her heart raced and her breathing increased.  

He could see her excitement.  “Nat, it’s not a cure, but it’s damn close.  Professor Finley found a plant deep in the rain forest; when the sap of the plant is mixed with a few other ingredients and the dosage administered according to the vampire's body weight, then a lot of the traits of the vampire are diminished.”

“You’re kidding?  It’s something that simple?  And what traits and how diminished?”

“Nat, I’ve been taking this medication, for over six months; it works!  I no longer have the blood lust. I still need to drink blood for survival, but occasionally, I can substitute a piece of steak that’s cooked rare for the blood; I’ve even been able to eat eggs.  God, I love omelets.”  He grinned.  "I can tolerate being outside during the day as long as it’s not direct sun.  I'm still immortal, but if I'm injured it takes longer to regenerate, and I need more blood than usual to do so."  He paused and smiled at her.  "Nat, I can make love without taking blood.”

That got her attention.  “And how would you know this if you haven’t tried?”  Suddenly she felt as if her heart had stopped.  Had he been with someone else, another mortal woman?

Nick had that I would blush if I could look.  “Nat, I know what you’re thinking, but trust me, I’ve been faithful.  Hon, there’re other ways of knowing; let’s just say I’ve been experimenting and leave it at that.”

She couldn’t help but grin at his confession.

“Nat?”  He took on a serious tone. He hoped that she would be as excited about his next news as he was. He only hoped her dreams for them remained the same as they had been when he had left her.”

She could tell there was something he wanted to tell her, but he wasn’t sure how she would react.  She took his face in her hands and made him look at her.  “Nick, what ever it is, we’ll deal with it together. What is it that you’re trying to tell me?”

He took a deep breath and hoped for the best.  “Nat, the professor has been running some test and…well…”

“Nick, what?”

“I can father children.”  He held his breath.

It took a few seconds to sink in.  “Oh my God! Are you sure?  Is it really possible?”

“Very possible.  Nat, there’s no danger of you being contaminated with the V-virus or of the baby being infected.  The baby will be a normal healthy mortal.  As a matter of fact there are several children who have already been born.”

Her eyes got big with excitement. Could this really be true?  Did she dare hope?  “Nick, this is all for real?”

“Yes, Nat, it’s all real and very possible. I’ve seen the children myself. The oldest child is fifteen.  The professor has somehow kept this all a secret. I didn’t ask how he’s done that, I’m not sure I want to know. Now he’s ready to reveal it to the Community, but before he does he wanted me to find you and tell you.”

“Why?”

Nick smiled and hugged her closer to him.  “The six years I’ve been with him we’ve grown very close.  I’ve done nothing but talk about you; he’s seen your pictures, heard every story that I could possibly share with him about us.  Nat, I think he sees our relationship as a reminder of what he lost and he doesn't want that happening to us; he wants better for us.  So what do you say?”

“Nick Knight are you asking me to be the mother of your children?”

He gave her a smile so bright that it reached his eyes and they twinkled.  “Not unless you agree to marry me.”  He got down on his knee in front of her, reached in his pocket and pulled out a diamond engagement ring.  “Natalie, will you give me the honor of becoming my wife?”

“Oh yes. Yes to both questions. I’ll gladly marry you and gladly have your children.”

He slid the ring on her finger and kissed the ring.  He stood, took her in his arms and kissed her passionately, fear of the Beast taking what it wanted gone for now.  “Nat?”  He murmured between kisses.

“Hmmm?”

“What if we get started on those kids now?”

“Sounds good to me.”  She managed to respond between his kisses.

He pulled away from her, but held her close.  He kissed her on the forehead before glancing over her shoulder at the clock.  “Nat?”

“Hmmm?” She had started kissing him, her hands exploring, caressing, becoming familiar with his body once again.

“Happy Birthday.”

She stepped back and smiled at him before wrapping her arms around his neck.  “This is the best birthday present ever and one I’ll never forget.” She pulled him toward her and covered his lips with hers.  She heard him moan before he swept her into his arms and headed for the bedroom.  “Oh Nick, what are you doing? Nick? Oh my…that feels…”

Those were the last words that Dimitri heard.  He had been leaning against the limousine listening to the conversation; curiosity had made him remain until he'd heard Knight's story. He smiled and got into the limousine.  “To the airport, George.  It would seem my business here is all wrapped up.”

George looked in the rear view mirror and smiled.  “Yes, sir, the airport it is.  Toronto?”

“Toronto for now, but I may soon be taking a trip to South America.”


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