Serenity

We arrived at Caffrey & Dahl the next day. The look of shock on the receptionist's face spoke volumes. Garen sat across from me looking over some files with a bored expression. We had agreed that I'd portray the nervous intern while he was the annoyed boss demanding answers about this inquiry. I thought he would break the back of the chair I'd been sitting in last night when I teased him about our first role-playing session.

"Miss Matthews, they're ready for you," the woman said hesitantly. Garen and I both stood and her eyes bulged. "Uh, sir, this is a private meeting. I'm sure the partners would be willing to speak with you separately."

 Garen's eyes flashed red, and his voice was low. "If they wish to discuss my firm, then they need to do it in my presence." He took my elbow and practically dragged me down the hall to the double doors without waiting for her response. He growled at the young man who had led me to the chamber the last time, and the man cowered under his glare. "Where do we sit?" He emphasized the word "we," leaving no room for argument.

"Th...this way, sir," the man stuttered. I fought the urge to giggle, instead acting as if I were equally shocked and afraid.

 When Garen entered the room, the board members were on their feet instantly. "Mr. Willet, welcome," Mr. Caffrey uttered, putting forth a hand to greet him. Garen simply looked at it like a piece of rotten meat. "We didn't know you'd be joining us. I'm afraid this is a private company matter, sir."

Garen gave me a sharp look and I wilted into the chair next to him, my eyes darting around the room as if I were terrified. In all truth I was trying to find someone, but I couldn't remember who. "It seems our daily business workings have captured your attention, Mr. Caffrey. As I informed Miss Matthews this morning, if you have so many questions, then by all means, ask me."

"Fine," Mr. Dahl gruffed, "We're having a difficult time understanding how your business, although relatively new to the area, is thriving and quite frankly stealing business from well-established companies. It's no secret that as part of the exchange program, the intent was to learn from one another, but over the years, we've even lost associates to your kind. It has raised questions."

I looked at Garen in confusion, then asked, "What do you mean lost associates? Did they quit or something?"

Garen seemed to be uncomfortable, but answered. "No, he means not only did they quit, but some chose to be changed." I had no doubt the color drained from my face. I didn't understand.

"So you admit that your kind is converting humans to gain an unfair advantage?" Dahl accused.

Scoffing, Garen turned to look directly at the man. "Is that what you think? You keep losing people because they are sick of being worked to death to make money for someone else. You don't offer any incentives or chances for advancement. The best your employees can hope for is a pathetic retirement plan and maybe a corner office with a window. They come and work where they see their efforts rewarded instantly, not with false dangling carrot promises. When our employees excel and help our firm, we recognize that with praise and opportunities. As for those who wanted to experience the change, well that is an entirely different story. A few found someone they loved, some had chronic health issues they knew would end their lives early. Others simply wanted to become vampires. It has always been our way to provide the gift of eternal life to those who wish it and are prepared."

 Before anyone could continue, the side door opened, and a man walked in. His presence seemed to weigh down the air. "Mr. Drake," I whispered. I could feel Garen's gaze on me, but my eyes were glued to the man who now sat across from me, not speaking.

Serenity? I heard Garen in my mind, but I couldn't look away from Mr. Drake, nor could I reply.

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Mr. Willet. We've heard many good things about you and your partner from Miss Matthews." Mr. Drake spoke to Garen, but his eyes still held me. "Now, I'm certain all of this can be sorted at another time. We wouldn't want to upset this young lady further, would we?" I suddenly found myself uncomfortable as tears began to stream down my cheeks. In seconds, both Garen and Mr. Drake had a tissue in front of me. I took them both with a soft word of thanks.

Mr. Drake looked to Caffrey and Dahl, "Gentlemen, I think this meeting has reached an end. Miss Matthews, I sincerely apologize for your discomfort. Randall will escort you and Mr. Willet out now." I stood as if being commanded, nodding my head and following the young man from earlier. Garen followed after a few words as well. Just before we reached the door, Mr. Drake spoke again. "Don't be in such a rush to follow the steps of others, Miss Matthews. Humanity has its advantages too."

"Who the hell was that?" Garen snapped once we reached the limo.

I felt my skin flush. "Mr. Drake."

"I gathered that, but who is he, Serenity? It was as if he held you transfixed, but I couldn't sense any magic on him, just humanity."

Something in his tone upset me and I snapped back, "Why are you jealous that a simple human could catch my eye, Garen? He's on the board, I guess. I don't remember where I met him."

He reeled back as if I'd struck him, then lowered his voice. "Serenity, please love, I didn't mean any offense. It just seemed odd the way you reacted, and in light of recent events it makes me wonder if he's connected."

"You said it was Daniel's mother. Not to mention after the temper tantrum you and Dahl just threw, I have no way of finding out anything! Don't you get it? I don't want to spend the rest of my life being hunted!" I was screaming, tears coming down faster than I could wipe them away. "Matt, stop the damn car, I need some air!"

He pulled over and faster than I even realized I could move, I was out of the car and sprinting down the sidewalk. I could hear both of them calling my name and for a few moments it seemed like they were right behind me, but then the air smelled sweet and I found myself looking into Mr. Drake's eyes. I gasped, but his finger touched my lips, "Shh, little human. Nothing to worry about now." I stood frozen as I watched him smirk, then lean forward and press his lips to mine. For a fleeting second it felt good, then all I felt was searing pain like razors shredding my very soul. I tried to struggle, but he held me firmly. "No need to fight, human. Before long you won't even be able to think without my command," he sneered, then biting his wrist, he pressed his arm to my mouth and I began gulping the intoxicating substance just before everything went black.

Author's Notes:  Again with Mr. Drake....

Sorry for my absence, between illness, work, and family drama, I need a nap and chocolate.