Subj: Secrets and Alibis 4
Date: 3/23/00 9:18:06 PM Central Standard Time
From: KimD
Barnabas awoke with a cold, deathlike feeling. He couldn’t remember clearly what had happened to him, or what he was doing in an alley. He did however know that something was different. He didn’t know how long he had been out, but it was still dark. As he made way through town, deciding to return to the old house, he felt overwhelmed by old familiar desires, which he had thought himself rid of. It was then that he remembered what had happened to him.
The next night was the engagement party. Mrs. Stodard had an elaborate dinner planned. All the family and a few close friends were there. Vicki felt wonderful, having everyone she cared about together. But something wasn’t right. Barnabas had seemed distant and distracted since he arrived. Vicki promised herself that later, when they were alone, she would find out what was wrong.
After dinner there was drinks in the drawing room. Everyone toasted the happy couple. “Vicki,” Mrs. Stodard said, “I have something for you.” She placed a wrapped package in Vicki’s lap.
“Oh, you’ve always been so wonderful to me. You didn’t have to do this.” Elizabeth smiled back at her. Vicki opened the box to find an exquisite crystal vase. “I can’t accept this. It looks much to expensive.”
“It’s been in the family for a hundred years. If you’re going to be a member of this family, I want you to have it.”
“You don’t know how much this means to me. Thank you so much,” she said, feeling as if she finally belonged somewhere.
The guests were going home, and the family was going to their rooms. The party had been wonderful. An air of friendship and comradely had set the tone for the evening. There was only one dark spot on her evening; Barnabas had seemed so distracted. Now that they were alone, it was time to find out what was wrong. She put her hand on his arm, feeling the need to connect with him in some way. “You’ve seemed so distant all evening,” she said. “Is something wrong?”
“Vicki,” he said. He paused and looked into her warm trusting eyes. What could he tell her that would make her understand? “I’m sorry if I’ve put a shadow over you’re evening. I’ll make it up to you,” he said deciding to tell her nothing.
He pulled her into his arms. He would have to find a way to put his problems aside for her. He lowered his head to hers and kissed her deeply. He felt the old familiar desire build up in him. When he moved to kiss the line of her jaw the blood lust became nearly overwhelming. He quickly pulls away from her. “I’m sorry. I must go now.” He turned and rushed out the door leaving Vicki hurt and confused.