Druid Vampire PG-13 Version

By KuroKoneko Kamen

A brooding Druid vampire who runs a tattoo parlor...

A vampire running a tattoo parlor? Probably not the best job choice. But Derek Dearg doesn’t care - tattooing is one of the few skills he has besides hunting vampires using Druidic magic. And since decapitating vampires with ink creatures doesn’t pay the bills he doesn’t plan to close his shop Voodoo Tattoo in San Francisco anytime soon.

An old friend who has become the deadliest of enemies...

Sunny San Francisco, probably not the best place for a vampire to live either. However, Derek has been pursuing his Archenemy, Slaine Morvyn, an evil vampire who killed his wife, Cinnia, more than two millennia ago. Derek lives only for avenging his wife’s death, and once he’s finally taken Slaine’s head plans to go out into the sun, and burn himself to ashes.

The red string of fate ties Derek’s destiny with one special woman...

When an unexpected customer arrives in the form of Rebecca “Becca” Thorn, cyber socialite and blogger, his carefully laid plans go out the window. In centuries, there hasn’t been a single woman that has managed to capture Derek’s attention, but the southern belle has. There’s something irresistible about her that makes him unable to control his vampire impulses. He would desire nothing more than to sink his fangs into her throat, and sample her delicious blood...

New cover by Mathia Arkoniel.

Swearwords and graphic sexual content have been removed to make this book more appropriate for my Teen readers.

• Language: English
• Publisher: KuroKoneko Kamen
• Release date: Nov 22, 2015
• ISBN: 9781310967368

KuroKoneko Kamen

Author KuroKoneko Kamen (Black Kitten Mask) has always had an interest in Japanese culture from folktales about yokai (ancient demons) to anime and manga. As a result of being an otaku a lot of her stories are set in Japan or have a Japanese theme. Even when in the midst of a pirate novel expect a samurai warrior to be thrown into the mix. Her latest passion is paranormal romance and she’s written stories where ghosts, demons, and angels find love. Keeping her company as she writes are her several dogs and cats, some of which are rescues (now including a pet turtle someone wanted to make a soup out of). To keep updated on new stories and specials visit the author’s facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/authorkurokonekokamen.

Book preview

Druid Vampire

PG-13 Version

By KuroKoneko Kamen

Copyright 2015 by KuroKoneko Kamen

Cover Design by Mathia Arkoniel

Smashwords Edition, License notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be resold or give away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

This is a work of fiction. All characters are invented. Any resemblance to persons living or dead is purely coincidental.

Chapter 1: Butterfly

Tattoo artist Derek Dearg was finishing up a memorial tattoo for a burly biker whose nickname was Mad Dog. The tattoo was of the man’s dead wife who’d gotten into a traffic accident on her Harley Davidson. The tattoo depicted the man’s blonde bombshell of a wife on her Harley. The bike’s tires were on fire, and a pair of angel wings was outstretched behind her.

As Derek worked on the tattoo he couldn’t help but remember his own dead wife. Cinnia. He shook his head to clear it of such morose thoughts. Derek liked doing memorial tattoos best because they had meaning, spirit, and soul. Unlike some of the random tattoos people had him doing from fandom like Looney Tunes, Star Wars, or Lord of the Rings.

Women were even worse. They’d come from the beach in their skimpy bikinis and want a new ‘tramp stamp’ on their lower backs, four-leaf clover on their inner thigh, a group of stars, a rose, a heart, or a butterfly somewhere indecent. The drunken beach bunnies could barely handle the pain and would leave his tattoo parlor Voodoo Tattoo in tears.

Voodoo Tattoo was located in sunny San Francisco, California, and just a few blocks away from the beach. The four-story townhouse he’d recently purchased had his business on the first floor while he lived in the upper levels. All of the windows were covered with thick, heavy drapes to keep out the sunlight, which was a must since Derek happened to be a vampire.

Derek was able to get away with the odd, dreary, dark décor because his shop was a tattoo parlor. And tattoo parlors tended to attract lots of Goths, punks, hipsters, and bikers.

California probably wasn’t the most ideal place for a vampire to live, but Derek didn’t care. He liked to live dangerously. And even if he were exposed to sunlight it would take a few minutes for his skin to catch on fire, and for him to burn away to a pile of ashes. And that was looking on the ‘bright side’ of his curse.

Derek also had a very good reason for being in California. He’d pursued his Archenemy; a vampire named Slaine Morvyn, across the globe and had ended up there. Slaine had killed his wife Cinnia more than two thousand years ago.

When Derek had first arrived in San Francisco a little more than three years ago, he hadn’t expected to stay in the city for very long. His only real skill besides hunting vampires was tattooing, and so he’d opened up a tattoo parlor. Unfortunately, he’d had an incident where he’d been unable to control his bloodlust, and had bitten one of his customers. This had landed his butt in prison where he ended up meeting three nonhumans who were now his best friends - merman, Levi Devlin, Hellcat shifter, Garth Mackenzie, and plant alien, Malakye Sterling.

Levi had really saved his butt in prison by letting him drink his blood. Derek hadn’t planned on making ‘friends’ in San Francisco, but he’d ended up making new allies anyways. In prison, Derek had learned how to cook and how to be a grill chef or rotisseur. Levi, Garth and Malakye had also taken cooking lessons. Levi’s plan was to open up a seafood restaurant named Poseidon’s Trident as soon as he got out. The merman offered Derek the position of grill chef. Derek had been unable to refuse because he owed Levi. And Derek always repaid his debts.

Unfortunately, their peaceful lives as chefs didn’t last for very long because Levi had some very powerful enemies. One day, the ADTF (Anti-Demonic Terrorism Force) came for Levi and blew up his restaurant. To make a long story short, Derek, Garth, Malakye, and Levi’s girlfriend, Vivien Tempest, had stormed the secret underwater base of the ADTF, and had rescued the merman before he could be vivisected.

In order to thank his friends for their daring rescue, Levi had done a little deep-sea diving and managed to salvage four treasure chests full of gold doubloons from sunken ships. The merman had managed to rebuild his restaurant, but instead of asking Derek, Garth and Malakye if they wanted to work for him again, Levi had given each male their own treasure chest full of gold. Levi had then told them to pursue their own dreams and had suggested they open up their own businesses.

As a result, Derek reopened his tattoo parlor, Voodoo Tattoo. Malakye opened up a flower shop named Out Of This World Flowers, and Garth opened up a candy shop named Helltastic Confectionary. Levi also opened up a new Poseidon’s Trident that was right on the beach this time, which made the merman extremely happy.

The split saddened Derek, but in the end it was for the best. Now he could concentrate on finding Slaine and avenging his dead wife Cinnia. At night, Derek prowled the streets, dark alleys, and rooftops of San Francisco searching for vampires who sought to prey on innocent humans. And when Derek found them, he killed them without mercy. The city of San Francisco was currently under his protection.

Each city in America had a Druid Vampire Hunter that was charged with its protection. When a vampire had killed the Hunter, who was in charge of protecting San Francisco, Derek had simply taken over his identity and duties. Because of this a replacement Hunter hadn’t been sent to the city, which was incredibly convenient for Derek.

As Derek did the finishing touches to the face of Mad Dog’s wife, he couldn’t help but think about Cinnia again. Cinnia had been so beautiful with her long, crimson hair and sparkling, forest-green eyes. Her skin had been pale, and blue, Celtic, animal tattoos had adorned her arms. She’d been so brave and was always the first to charge into battle, especially if it meant saving a friend. Cinnia had also been kind, intelligent, nurturing and understanding. She’d had this fiery, unbreakable spirit. It’d taken proposing to Cinnia two hundred and forty-five times before she’d finally said ‘yes’.

Aw crap. Derek mentally cursed. The woman was beginning to look more and more like Cinnia. He decided he’d better stop before he screwed up this poor guy’s memorial tattoo. Derek set his tattoo gun down on a stainless steel table, and with a clean towel lightly dabbed the blood off the man’s skin.

His pupils dilated slightly at the smell of blood, but other than that he had no visible reaction. He had his bloodlust completely under control these days. There. All done. Take a look in the mirror.

Mad Dog sat up on the padded table, looked at his back in the mirror on the wall, and grinned. This looks frigin awesome, man. Thanks. Anna would love it, for sure. You made her look smoking hot!

Derek checked his reflection in the mirror to make sure it looked okay. Vampires didn’t cast reflections because they had no souls, but since Derek possessed magic he was able to will his reflection to appear in mirrors. It was a pretty handy trick. Especially when a vampire was trying his best to blend into human society.

The bell above the door jingled as a new customer stepped inside the shop. For a moment, Derek’s breath caught in his throat at the sight of the stunning female and her long, red hair. It was like seeing a ghost from his past.

But then he shook his head to clear it of the image of his dead wife, and focused on the young woman before him. He recognized her instantly - it was Rebecca ‘Becca’ Thorn. Becca was a cyber socialite and power blogger. She was also a writer for Epic Taste Magazine. Becca was an…acquaintance of him and his friends. She’d written an article about Poseidon’s Trident to help them out, and when Levi had needed help during his kidnapping Becca had spread the word online that a top-secret, government organization was about to dissect the last merman on Earth. As a result, the President had been forced to make Levi a citizen.

Derek had always admired Becca from afar because of her sexy red hair, and had even shared a dance with her at a friend’s wedding recently. But that was as far as he’d let things go between them.

Derek had promised to love Cinnia forever and he took that promise very seriously. Even though she was dead and he was immortal. For more than two thousand years, he’d kept that promise to his dead wife, and hadn’t looked at another woman in a romantic way, or slept with one either.

Derek only lived to avenge Cinnia and kill Slaine. And once he’d gotten vengeance he would let the sun have him, and then he’d finally be reunited with Cinnia on the other side. This was his plan.

A surprised but pleased look came to Becca’s face as she caught sight of Derek. Derek? You work here?

Derek gave her a chagrined look in return. I’m the owner.

Becca frowned slightly at this revelation. "You don’t work at Poseidon’s Trident anymore? What about Levi and the guys? What happened? Did you guys have a falling out or something?" Her expression turned concerned.

Derek chuckled and felt touched by her worry. No, it was nothing so serious. Levi gave us the money to open up our own businesses. I opened up this tattoo parlor, Malakye opened up a florist and Garth opened up a candy shop.

Becca’s expression turned relieved. Oh, I see. That was really nice of Levi. She looked around the tattoo parlor curiously as if to take notes. Dark purple drapes covered the front windows, white pages with examples of blue tattoo designs covered one entire wall of the shop, and she spotted a stainless steel table covered with tattooing tools. Her eyes were drawn next to a stand that contained bellybutton rings and earrings for those who got piercings at the shop. Becca had expected rock music to be playing and was surprised that relaxing Celtic music was playing instead. Your place is very…Goth.

Derek smirked. It’s supposed to be.

It’s so dark in here…how do you see what you’re doing? Becca whipped out her smart phone. Mind if I take some pictures?

Derek scratched the back of his neck, beginning to feel a little uneasy about her presence there. Uh…sure, I guess. What’s this for?

Becca began to snap photos of the interior of the shop, and walked over to the wall covered in pages of tattoo designs and began to take pictures of them next. I’m starting a new blog. It’s going to be all about tattoos and about all the tattoo parlors in San Francisco. I’m going to give them ranks and reviews.

Derek raised an eyebrow at the southern belle. Tattoos? What happened to your dessert blog?

Becca frowned at the mere remembrance of her dessert blog. I’ve decided to stop writing it. I’m sick of having to go to the gym all the time just so I can keep my figure.

Derek chuckled and raked his eyes over Becca’s curvy physique. I think you look great. I like a woman with a little meat on her bones. He winked and couldn’t believe that he was flirting with her.

Becca blushed at the unexpected compliment. Uh…thanks. I was getting sick of having to eat lettuce like a rabbit when I wasn’t eating desserts. She glanced away since staring directly into Derek’s eyes was just too intense.

So why tattoos?

I’ve always had a thing for guys with tattoos. Her blush deepened at the words coming out of her mouth. I mean, tattoos. I think they’re very interesting…like works of art that last forever. I’ve always been drawn to them. I wanted to get a tattoo actually, but my conservative, old-fashioned mother would have had a cow! But she’s all the way back in Arlington, Iowa so I’m free to do as I please now! Becca’s lime-green eyes were sparkling with mischief.

Derek gawked at her. "What are you saying? That you want me to give you your very first tattoo?"

Becca nodded. That’s exactly what I’m saying, sugar. She reached into her cleavage, pulled out a small folded piece of paper, and handed it to Derek. I want this tattoo done on my lower back.

Derek unfolded the paper and looked at the image of a Celtic, Tribal butterfly tattoo. A tattoo that looked exactly like the one his wife Cinnia had had on her arm! What the hell? Derek reached out and grabbed Becca’s arms in a tight grip. Where did you get this design? He demanded.

Becca blinked up at Derek in confusion and her brow furrowed. I…a friend gave it to me. Why? Does it have some sort of special significance?

A friend, you say? Derek let Becca go when he realized what a paranoid idiot he was being. A Celtic butterfly tattoo was a popular design. It was just a coincidence that the design Becca wanted looked just like Cinnia’s old tattoo. He scrubbed a hand down his face. Fool. No…it’s a pretty design. That’s all. I’m impressed.

Becca’s expression shifted to relief and she beamed at him. I’m glad you think so. So where should I lay down?

Mad Dog had finished gingerly putting his leather jacket back on, and stood up from the padded table. He walked over to Derek and handed him four hundred and fifty dollars. Derek charged one hundred dollars per hour, and it had taken him four hours to do the memorial tattoo. Thanks again, man. Keep the change.

Derek grinned. No problem. Don’t forget to recommend me to your friends.

Mad Dog chuckled. Oh yeah, I’ll tell the gang alright. They’ll all want tattoos after they see mine. The biker left the shop with a skip to his step.

Derek motioned towards the padded table. Please, lay down over here.

Alright. Becca made her way over to the table, sat down, and began to take her shirt off.

Derek watched her, transfixed.

Becca blushed when she noticed that Derek was staring at her. Uh, Derek, would you mind turning around?

Oh, yeah. Sorry, babe. Derek quickly turned around and wondered what the hell was wrong with him. With his acute hearing he could hear Becca taking off her shirt, and then her bra. Derek gulped. Becca was shirtless and sitting right behind him.

Becca lay down on the table on her stomach, and rested her chin on her hands. You can turn around now.

Derek turned around and tried not to stare or drool. But it was hard when he could see the way her curves were pressing into the padded tabletop. Her bare back was exposed and her skin looked extremely soft and inviting. Her long red hair was cascading down her back and his heart clenched inside of his chest at the sight. Cinnia. He shook his head to clear it of such thoughts. Becca was not Cinnia.

Derek approached the table, and set the butterfly design down on the small stainless steel table that had his tools on it. Not that he needed it. He would be able to tattoo the design into Becca’s skin from memory. Derek gathered a new single-use needle, his tattoo gun, a new bottle of blue ink, a bottle of black ink, some other thicker single-use needles, a clean towel, and some cotton balls and rubbing alcohol. What color would you like the tattoo to be?

Blue. Like yours. If that’s okay.

Derek swallowed again, his throat feeling dry. Yeah, that’s okay. He cleaned and disinfected Becca’s lower back. This is going to hurt a little bit…but I’ll try to be as gentle as possible.

Don’t worry. I know. And I trust you. That’s why I decided to do this now and with you. The other tattoo parlors I’ve visited so far…just weren’t the one. As soon as I walked in here and saw you…I knew I’d come to the right place for my first time. Becca admitted softly.

Derek was touched by Becca’s words and also slightly amused. I knew I’d come to the right place for my first time. Heh. I’m honored that you would trust me with your first time. He said in a deep, husky voice.

Becca giggled at his suggestive words.

Derek attached a new needle to his tattoo gun and began drawing an outline of the butterfly tattoo under her skin. She flinched at the feeling at first but then seemed to get used to it. She didn’t complain and didn’t cry. Derek was very impressed, and discovered a newfound respect for her. She was a real trooper. Once the outline was completed he cleaned it with antiseptic soap and water.

It was going to look gorgeous and sexy when he was done, and not only that. As a gift to her, Derek was going to use his magical powers to make this tattoo very special. Next Derek installed a thicker needle into his tattoo machine, and began shading the butterfly design. After cleaning the area again, he began to inject color. Periodically, he dabbed a clean towel against Becca’s skin to remove her delicious smelling blood.

Derek couldn’t help but breathe in her delectable scent. She had a very clean, citrusy scent…like lemons or limes. He reached out and moved her long, silky hair out of the way revealing her neck. His pupils dilated and his fangs lengthened inside of his mouth at the sight of her bare neck.

Derek could hear her heart beating loudly in his ears, could hear her blood rushing through her veins. He eyed the throbbing pulse on her neck. He jerked backwards in shock at how his body was reacting to her. What the? What the hell was wrong with him? He usually had such good control over his bloodlust, but right then, in that moment he craved biting Becca.

Derek growled low in his throat, wondering what Becca’s blood would taste like. He bet it would be delicious. His black leather pants were feeling too tight.

Is something wrong? Becca asked in her lilting, southern drawl.

Derek realized that he’d stopped moving. He cleared his throat. No, sorry. I zoned out for a minute there.

That’s okay.

Derek resumed tattooing her. I have to say, I’m impressed. Most girls would be in tears by now. You’re tougher than you look.

Becca smiled wryly. It hurt at first, but now it just feels numb. And I feel like I’ve… She trailed off and nibbled at her lower lip as if embarrassed.

Feel like you’ve…? Derek prompted.

No, never mind.

By the time Derek finally finished with Becca’s tattoo he was incredibly aroused. He wanted to take her right there on the table. What the hell was wrong with him? He hadn’t been this attracted to a female since…Cinnia. Derek grabbed a towel, gently dabbed the blood off her lower back, and cleaned her tattoo.

"Are you finished? Because I really have to pee." Becca admitted.

Derek put a hand over his mouth to hide his elongated fangs. Yeah.

Becca began to sit up and Derek quickly turned around to give her some privacy as she pulled on her shirt without her bra.

Where’s the bathroom?

Straight back and to your left.

Okay. Thanks. Becca hopped off the table and ran for the bathroom.

Phew. Derek let out a breath of relief. If Becca hadn’t said anything…he may have attacked her! This was so not good. He had to get Becca the hell out of here as soon as she came back. He sighed and ran his hand over his mouth in a worried gesture.

The bell above the front door jingled as a customer stepped inside and closed the door behind him. Derek turned to face the doorway and his eyes widened in horror. "You!" He snarled.

Standing in front of the closed door was a male who was the same height as Derek at six-four. He had spiked-up white hair, and a pair of silver sunglasses on his face. The man was wearing a black, Gothic T-shirt with a silver design of the Grim Reaper on it, a long, white leather trench coat, black and white leather pants, a belt with a skull on it, and biker boots. Diamond earrings sparkled in his ears, a diamond and gold Rolex was on his wrist, and a few golden chains dangled around his neck.

Slaine smiled amusedly at Derek. "Oh, look it’s Derek Dearg. What a coincidence-" Sarcasm was dripping from his voice.

Derek attacked Slaine before he could finish his sentence, and punched him hard across the face. What the hell are you doing here, you punk? Derek couldn’t help but think about how Becca was in the bathroom while this psycho murderer was here in his shop!

Slaine wiped the blood from his mouth with the back of his hand. Now that wasn’t very nice. Is that any way to greet an old friend after a century of not having seen each other? He pouted.

You’re no friend of mine, Slaine! Derek moved to punch Slaine again, but Slaine caught his fist, twisted Derek’s arm behind his back and shoved Derek over to the front desk. He then pushed Derek against the desk and bent him over it.

Slaine leaned over to breathe in Derek’s ear. Now where are your manners, Derek?

Derek’s face flamed and he struggled against Slaine’s iron hold. But it was no use. Slaine’s vampire strength was far superior to his own. Slaine fed from humans whereas Derek fed off of rats. Because of this Derek was physically weak when compared to the supernatural strength of a true vampire. Derek could fight Slaine using his Druid magic but…Becca was still in the building and so until she left he was at Slaine’s mercy.

Slaine seemed to realize Derek’s predicament as well. "You’ve gotten so weak, Derek. Haven’t you been feeding properly? Let me guess, you’re still feeding off of rats like a pathetic pet cat?"

Curse you, Slaine! I’ll kill you! Derek growled and struggled against him.

Bull’s eye. Slaine chuckled and pressed Derek’s face into the desk’s countertop, just to be a jerk. I could kill you right here and now, you know? Or use you as a snack. I wonder how your blood would taste, Derek? He purred.

Sick freak…

But you can’t do anything to me because of your…guest, can you? Ah, she’s coming back. Now, play nice, Derek. We wouldn’t want to make a scene in front of the lovely lady. Slaine let go of Derek, and backed away from him.

Derek quickly straightened, spun around, and glared at Slaine heatedly. What he wouldn’t give to rip the man’s head off.

Becca entered the main room and it was obvious she wasn’t wearing her bra. She caught sight of Slaine, smiled brightly, and ran over to him. Hey honey, you’re right on time. Becca kissed Slaine right on the lips and pulled back.

Derek’s jaw dropped as he watched Becca’s casual greeting kiss. What the hell was going on?

Slaine smirked at Derek’s slack-jawed expression. Hey babe, so did you get your new tattoo?

Becca nodded, a gleam of excitement in her lime-green eyes. Yep. Take a look. She turned around and raised her shirt to reveal her lower back to Slaine.

Slaine bent over, peered at it closely, and his pupils dilated slightly because of the scent of her blood. His sunglasses hid that though. He licked his lips. It looks great. Very sexy. I can’t wait until it’s healed so I can run my tongue all over it.

Becca dropped her shirt, spun around and whacked Slaine playfully on the arm. Geez, don’t be such a perv in front of my friend, honey.

Friend? Derek frowned. Had he just been friend-zoned? Becca, I don’t understand. Who is this man to you?

Becca flushed. Uh, he’s…my new boyfriend.

Slaine strolled over to Becca and draped his arm over her shoulders in a possessive gesture. "We’re lovers, actually." He breathed into her ear, and Becca shuddered with delight.

What the hell was going on? Please let this be some kind of nightmare. Lovers? How the hell did this happen? Derek’s voice was tinged with anger and he clenched his hands into fists at his sides.

Becca blinked, not understanding where Derek’s sudden anger was coming from. I met him at Tristan and Issy’s wedding. After our dance when you just…disappeared. Slaine kept me company and we just hit it off. She explained casually. You know, it’s funny, he has the same allergy to the sun that you do, Derek.

I think for me it was love at first sight. Slaine teased.

Becca whacked his arm. Geez, you’re such a joker, Slaine.

Derek felt like the ground was crumbling beneath his feet. He couldn’t believe that Slaine had somehow managed to become Becca’s boyfriend! And judging from how they were interacting so intimately with each other, they’d even slept together. He felt like ripping Slaine’s head off. Both of them. How dare he sleep with Becca Thorn. Becca was in grave danger. Slaine was going to kill her. It was only a matter of time.

How much do I owe you for the tattoo? Becca’s voice pulled Derek from his grim thoughts.

Uh…it took two hours so two hundred. Derek said distractedly.

I got it, babe. Slaine whipped out a white leather wallet with a black skull on it, and handed Derek two hundred and fifty bucks. "Keep the change, friend. Shall we go, Becca? We have a dinner reservation for eight o’clock at Gary Danko."

Becca’s green eyes sparkled as Slaine reminded her of their dinner date. Ooo, that’s right! I still can’t believe we’re going there. It’s so hard to get a reservation for that place sometimes. How did you do it, Slaine?

Money talks, babe. Shall we? Slaine offered Becca his arm in a gentlemanly manner.

Becca readily looped her arm around Slaine’s. Yep. She glanced over at Derek. Thanks again for the lovely tattoo, Derek.

Uh, yeah, no problem. Have a nice evening. Derek found himself saying.

"Oh, we will. We’re going to have a very good time tonight." Slaine assured, his voice dripping with innuendo.

Becca and Slaine left the tattoo parlor, and as soon as the door was closed Derek sunk to his knees in shock. What the hell should he do? Just what was Slaine up to by dating Becca Thorn? Was this just some plot to hurt him? Had Slaine known of their acquaintance? He’d tried so hard to stay away from her for this very reason, and it appeared that his efforts had been in vain.

Derek stood up, rushed to the front door, flung it open, and ran outside. He was just in time to see Slaine drive off with Becca in his flashy, white and black Lamborghini Aventador. That was a three hundred and seventy thousand dollar car! He looked at his old, gray ’59 Rover and noticed a small dent in its fender. That punk!

Derek went back inside his shop, grabbed one of his hooded leather jackets (this one with long sleeves) put it on, and went back outside. He flipped the sign on his door to ‘closed’ and locked up his shop. Derek fished out his car keys, got in the Rover, started the engine, pulled out of his parking spot, and smoothly merged into traffic. He headed in the direction Slaine and Becca had gone.

They were already way ahead of him because of Slaine’s fast car, but Derek didn’t need to see them to follow them. Because he’d decided to imbue magic in Becca’s butterfly tattoo he could now use it to track her. And use it he did. He followed them to Gary Danko. He parked his car about a block away, got out, and headed for the restaurant. With his acute eyesight he was actually able to see Becca inside the restaurant through the front windows. He entered and approached the hostess. Table for one, please.

The hostess was still looking at the reservation list in front of her when she began to respond. I’m sorry you’re going to have to- The hostess looked up and blushed at Derek’s handsomeness. His black T-shirt clung to his muscular chest, and his tight black leather pants left little to the imagination. The braids in his dark brown, wavy hair were exotic. His sky-blue eyes seductive. You know what? You’re in luck. We’ve just had an opening. Right this way, please.

Derek smirked. Sometimes it paid off to be good looking. Not that he used this card often. The hostess led Derek through the restaurant, and he spotted Becca and Slaine already seated together at one of the tables. The hostess led Derek to a table towards the back - it was in the perfect spot to spy on his Archenemy and Becca. A waitress will be right with you. The hostess assured him.

Thanks. Derek smiled at her and returned his attention to Slaine and Becca. He watched as the couple - gah - ordered wine and decided on a five-course meal. The three-course meal started at eighty-one dollars, and each additional course was eighteen dollars. Ordering a five-course meal was pretty standard at Gary Danko.

The hostess let out a dreamy sigh as she walked off in the direction of her podium. A few minutes later, a waitress arrived and handed Derek a menu. Hello, my name is Lila. And I will be your server this evening. May I get you something to drink?

A glass of Merlot. Derek ordered a glass of red wine.

Right away, Sir. The waitress skipped off to place his order.

Derek sighed. This was going to be a long night. When his waitress returned with his glass of wine he went ahead and ordered a three-course meal. Foie gras for his appetizer, seared beef filet (extra rare) for his main dish, and a coconut parfait for dessert.

He continued to watch as Slaine and Becca dined and chatted together. It was surreal. He watched as Becca laughed and smiled at something Slaine had said, and then Derek saw Slaine’s face. The vampire was smiling and it wasn’t his usual sinister smile or cocky smirk either. It was a genuinely happy smile. An almost warm, fond smile.

In the past two millennia Derek had never seen Slaine look at a human woman like that before…except for Cinnia. But that was more than two thousand years ago. Something strange was going on here. Very strange. But Derek couldn’t put his finger on it. He found himself wondering if perhaps Slaine could have actual feelings for Becca.

Feeling like a stalker and a fool, Derek continued to spy on Becca and Slaine’s romantic date. Once a beautiful, Latina pianist named Carmen began to play Feelings, Slaine stood up and offered his hand to Becca. Becca giggled, took Slaine’s hand, and he led her over to the dance floor. Derek watched as Slaine and Becca danced together, and Slaine spun her around.

Derek’s gut clenched painfully at the sight. That should have been him on that dance floor with Becca. But…he’d pushed Becca away that night at Issy and Tristan’s wedding and into the arms of another man. This