The Awakening: The Blazing Book Two

By Buffy M. Brinkley

VIVECA
She is a dream walker warrior who fell in love with a vampire. She vowed to save him, but when she pulled him through the blazing, she sacrificed a part of herself that may be lost forever. Can she find a way back to the warrior she once was?

RICHARD

After two centuries of struggle within his vampire cage, he is saved by the woman he loves. Now he is adjusting to life as an ordinary man in a world that may still hold dangers for them both. How can he protect her now that he is only human?

THE AWAKENING
Forces of darkness are gathering in number and an enemy will awaken to seek its revenge. Can Viveca and Richard find the strength they need to fight it?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: May 14, 2020
• ISBN: 9781984579270

Buffy M. Brinkley

BUFFY BRINKLEY fell in love with words at a very young age. Her love of reading sparked a love for writing. Throughout her adolescence and young adulthood, she had written numerous poems and short stories. As an adult, she has continued to write poetry, children's books, short stories, and novels that span the genres. Her love of writing is matched only by her love of family, writing recipes, and the culinary arts. She lives in Central City, Louisiana, where she spends her time developing story ideas, writing recipes, cooking, and running after her two dogs. This is her third book.

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PART ONE

Viveca

Chapter 1

January 9, 2016; New Orleans, Louisiana; 6:47 a.m.

The battle played out. The vampire spirit was viciously fighting to stop her; the tigress was holding it back as she was trying with all her might to pull Richard through the blazing. Then at that moment, she realized what she had to do. Pulling the tigress back, she’d summoned the strength she needed to pull Richard free. The vampire loomed, and she projected the tigress out again to keep the vampire from attacking. Richard, now human, held her in his arms as she concentrated on the battle itself. The tigress’s strength was waning. There was only one way to send the vampire into oblivion, and that meant she, too, would go with it. She peered into Richard’s eyes, her expression conveying her plan. She reached up and touched his face. I love you, she said and released the tigress from her spirit, giving it the strength to defeat the vampire but sending both the vampire and the tigress into oblivion.

Viveca woke with a start, sat up, and wept. Her sobs shook the bed and might have left her in her depression had a voice not sounded in her ears. Sweetheart? Richard Ambrose. The man she loved.

I’m okay, she answered as her tears subsided.

Are you sure, love?

Yes, I just didn’t realize …

How hard it would be to let her go?

Viveca nodded. I just tossed her away.

She saved us. She will always be important to us, Viveca.

I miss her, Viveca whispered, her eyes filling with tears again.

I know you do, my love, he said, and she could feel him tense next to her.

No.

No what? he asked.

No, I don’t regret losing her to have you here with me. That’s not why I’m crying. I just feel a part of myself missing. Every moment.

I’m sorry. What can I do to help you, my love?

Hold me. Love me. Tell me everything is going to be okay.

Richard pulled her back into his embrace and held her close. She turned in his arms, and he brought his lips to hers. In the next moment, their kiss deepened, and the passion that had always flourished between them rose up once more to take them into that beautiful realm where their bodies, hearts, and minds were one. Making love with him was something she had always yearned for since her first womanly feelings for him. And that, too, had saved her. Making love to him had released the healing parts of her nature and the phoenix that now presided over her dream walker spirit.

In the aftermath, Viveca lay in his arms, breathing him in. He had closed his eyes again, content to return to sleep. She stretched and yawned, then she let her vision return to Richard. She couldn’t help herself. She grinned like a silly schoolgirl and reached out a hand to touch his face. She moved her fingers gently over his forehead, down his cheek, and traced the beginnings of a beard along his strong jaw. Less than one month had gone by since he had been a vampire, yet Richard had embraced his humanity and his being human again in stride. He might never have been a vampire if not for the centuries of memories he carried. She wondered—as she often did—just what it had been like to live two centuries before. What had he been like back then before he knew the horror of living in that cage?

She glanced at the clock, noted the hour, and rose for the day. She padded naked to the bathroom to begin her morning routine. When she emerged from the shower, her body wrapped in a towel and another wrapped around her hair, she stepped back to the bed and sat down gently.

Richard, she said softly.

Hmm?

If we’re going to see my Nana, we have to get ready. You going to sleep all day?

Nuh-uh, he said, but didn’t move.

She pulled the covers away from his body and smacked his backside with the back of her hand. Not hard enough to hurt but enough to get him moving. God Almighty, woman! I’m up.

She smiled wickedly. Shower’s free.

He rose from the bed, his hair tousled, his eyes half-closed, and walked toward the bathroom. She watched him move away from her, content to take in the sight of his naked body. As beautiful as he’d been as a vampire, he was even more so as a human man. He was everything she imagined her perfect lover to be. They fit together as if they had been made for each other. He quickly learned her curves, her slopes, and her valleys. He knew how to touch her, when to touch her, and where. As she’d matured, she had begun to believe that because of her age, she’d be awkward at lovemaking, but not with him. He’d made even that first experience a wonderful one, bringing her as close to elation as she’d ever hoped to be. She was learning his body as well. What he wanted in a lover, how he liked to be touched. They were explorers, each discovering new and distant lands within each other.

Viveca pulled herself from her musings and dressed in a pink cable-knit sweater and jeans. She was just putting on her shoes when Richard stepped from the bathroom. She looked up and smiled warmly at him. Want to wear something we picked up for you yesterday?

Yes, I believe so. He walked over to the dresser she’d cleared for him and rummaged through it for a moment before pulling out the soft blue jeans and sweater she’d purchased for him. You know, I am going to have to find a job, love.

She suppressed a giggle. Still amused, she asked, And what did you do for a living in the eighteen hundreds?

I was a farmer. I raised crops, tended to the animals, and helped my father manage the land.

I’m picturing you in a plaid shirt, overalls, and a straw hat with a reed of wheat in your teeth, she teased and grinned.

You’re poking fun?

Not seriously poking fun. Do you still want to be a farmer?

What else would I do?

Well, you can go to school for a career, or you can be my househusband.

Are you picturing me in an apron now?

She rose from the bed and approached him. She smiled, wrapped her arms around his neck, and kissed him. An apron. And nothing else.

You are a wicked woman!

Oh, don’t even pretend you don’t like it.

He pulled her into his arms and kissed her more deeply. If we continue like this, all our clothes will come off again, and Nana will never have the chance to meet me.

I know. Should we wait until tomorrow?

Viv, she’s been asking for us to visit. I think we have waited long enough. Any longer and I’m afraid she will not approve of me. His words sounded serious, but his expression was playful.

Okay. She moved from his side and headed toward the bedroom door. You get dressed, and I’ll walk over to Stan and Mike’s and see what’s on the agenda for the day. Want to meet me over there?

Sure.

She stopped at the door, turned back to face him, then said, Then after Nana’s, we’ll start our search for a home in the country.

What?

Well, if you want to be a farmer, we can’t stay here. Not that we were going to stay here much longer anyway. I think I’ve taken far too much advantage of Stan and Mike of late.

He nodded, then asked, Wouldn’t that take you farther away from your work?

Maybe we can find a nice place in the country that isn’t too far from the city. We won’t know until we look. I was asking Frank the other day if he knew of any good real estate agents.

How is this new partnership working out for you?

It’s going great. He’s a consummate professional content to keep his hands to himself, he doesn’t pry into my private life, and he’s catching on very quickly. He’s going to be a great detective.

You know Rollins was—

Do not say that name to me, Richard!

I’m sorry. You know your former partner was keeping you close, crossing those lines, because he thought he could seduce you. He was working for Malcolm.

Another name I don’t want to hear.

We’ve got to face it sooner or later, love.

They killed my parents, my friends, and my cat. I don’t want to hear their names!

Because of me.

Viveca had screwed her face up in a disgusted expression. At his words, she immediately let the expression soften. No, because of me. Because I could take you from him.

He closed the distance between them and pulled her into his embrace. Sweetheart, you have a very special gift. You are an amazing woman. Those two acted like monsters because they were monsters. Not because of you but because of them. They are to blame. Not you. Not me.

I can’t see anymore, Richard, and I think I’ve lost the dream walk.

How do you mean, love?

I used to be able to see things and people for what they really are. But without the tigress, I can’t anymore, and I haven’t been able to go into the dream walk. I feel so afraid, Richard. I’m scared for the first time in my life, really scared that I’m going to lose you somehow.

He released her from his embrace, held her at arm’s length, and met her eyes with his own. You’re not going to lose me, my love. I am here, right here, and I’m not going anywhere.

Chapter 2

Come in! Nana beamed from the doorway, and Viveca and Richard entered. Viveca raised the sleeves of her sweater, and Richard removed his light jacket. Nana took the jacket and hung it on the coat rack, which stood just behind the door.

Nana, it’s so good to see you, Viveca said as she stepped into her grandmother’s embrace. Nana hugged Viveca, then turned her attention to Richard. Nana, this is Richard.

Hi, Mrs. Hampshire … Richard stepped forward and took Nana’s hand and held it gently rather than offer her a handshake.

Mrs. Hampshire, bah! Call me Nana. Goodness, but you’re a handsome young man, and a gentleman as well.

Richard blushed and smiled. Thank you, Mrs. … Nana.

And you’re an Englishman. I do like your accent. Oh, and look at my manners! Come on in, you two, Nana said as she led them to the dining nook just outside the kitchen. Haven’t seen you in a few weeks, honey. Where have you been?

I’m sorry, Nana, Viveca said as she took a seat. Richard sat next to her. Work has been so hectic, and, well …

You wanted some time with your beau before you brought him home to meet me. I may be old, honey, but I still remember what it was like to be young and in love. She peered amusingly into Viveca’s face and gave her a sly wink.

Viveca laughed. We really meant to visit sooner. Really.

I understand, but now you must catch me up on all your news. How about some tea?

Would love some. Thank you.

What about you, Richard? Nana offered.

Yes, ma’am. Please, he answered and reached over to hold Viveca’s hand.

Nana stepped into the kitchen to prepare the tea. Tell me, Richard, how long have you been here in Louisiana?

Quite some time now.

You plan to be here a while more?

Yes, ma’am. Richard squeezed Viveca’s hand, and she gave Richard a perplexed expression.

Why are you asking, Nana?

Richard chucked under his breath. She’s making sure I am not going to leave and break your heart or, worse, leave and take you away with me.

Viveca turned toward her grandmother again. Is that what it is, Nana?

Not to upset you, dears. I just … well, we’ve only been a real family now for what amounts to a few months. I don’t want to lose you, honey.

Viveca let go of Richard’s hand and stood up to hug her grandmother. Nana, we’re not going anywhere. Okay?

Nana looked into Viveca’s face. Okay, sweetheart.

Viveca returned to her seat and slipped her hand back into Richard’s. He closed his fingers around hers and gave her a light squeeze. Nana smiled at them, then prepared the tea and brought it to the table on a tray.

Nana sat at the table and turned to her guests. There’s honey and lemon and sugar there, and here’s some cream if you prefer. Do either of you want a scone or cookie to go with your tea?

No, thank you, Richard said and added a bit of honey to his tea.

No, thanks, Nana, Viveca said. She preferred her tea with a bit of honey and cream.

So you said work has been hectic. How so, dear?

Viveca took a sip of her tea, then placed the cup back in its saucer. I’m breaking in a new partner, Frank Taylor.

Oh? What happened to your partner, Rollins?

Viveca tensed, and Richard leaned closer to her. She sighed, shut her eyes for a moment, then looked at her grandmother. He died, Nana.

Oh, Viveca. I’m so sorry, dear.

Viveca nodded, but she said no more. Richard took a sip of his tea, then turned his attention to Nana. It was an emotional time, and we’re so very sorry to have missed celebrating Christmas with you, Nana. Viveca eyed him curiously but said nothing. Then Richard continued, Nana, can you and I speak alone?

Why? What’s going on? Viveca sounded slightly panicked.

Nothing, love. This will only take a moment, and then we’ll be back in your company before you know it, Richard assured her.

Of course, Richard. We can speak in the sitting room if you’d like. Nana rose and gestured for him to follow.

Viveca turned in her chair and watched them step out of sight. What in the world is he doing? she wondered.

When they’d stepped into the sitting room and the door was closed behind them, Richard turned to face Nana. If you would allow me a moment, Nana?

Of course, Richard.

He reached into his shirt pocket and withdrew a small box. I’ve loved Viveca for a very long time now. I’d give my life for her, and I’d do anything to protect her. I can’t imagine spending my life with anyone else, so I’d like to ask your permission for her hand.

My goodness! You’re a very proper young man! Nana turned her back to him a moment and then turned to face him once more. You said, ‘a very long time.’ How long have you two been seeing each other, if I may ask?

Richard took a breath. I’ve known her all her life.

How’s that?

It’s a bit complicated, but we met when she was a little girl, before she knew you.

That’s odd. Whenever I’ve asked her about her love life, she’s only recently made real mention of you.

I think it was because she wasn’t sure I was going to stay. She says it’s an orphan thing, but I believe I’ve convinced her now that I’m not going anywhere.

He saw Nana visibly relax. Then she looked into his face and smiled. It’s clear to me that you love each other. There’s just one question I must ask, but I must ask it of her.

All right. I understand, Nana.

Nana and Richard returned to the dining table and took their seats again. Richard slipped his fingers through Viveca’s and gave her a reassuring squeeze. Viveca looked at her grandmother, then to Richard, and back again. What is going on?

Nana said, I need to ask you a question, dear.

Okay?

"Do you love Richard with all your heart?

Viveca turned to look at Richard. Richard, who was once the vampire who saved her from monsters. Richard, the vampire she had been willing to die for so that he could be human again. Richard, her Richard. She nodded. I do, Nana.

Nana smiled and returned her focus to Richard. Well, then you certainly have my permission, young man.

Richard smiled broadly and presented the box to Viveca. Thank you, Nana. He released Viveca’s hand, then opened the box and turned to her. The ring within the box was a small sterling silver band adorned with three diamonds, each a different size. It wasn’t flashy; it wasn’t a ring meant to capture the light and sparkle. It was simple and simply a symbol of love and devotion. It was perfect.

Viveca, this ring was given to me as an inheritance. I’ve carried it in my possession, not because I knew this moment would come but because I hoped it would. These small stones represent time. The one to the left—the smallest—represents the past. It’s small and light to remind us to allow what has gone to remain there. The one to the right—the slightly larger stone—represents the future. It’s slightly larger to allow for all our hopes that will come with tomorrow. And the stone in the middle—the largest—represents the present. It’s the largest to remind us to always live in the moment and fill our todays with all the love we can. Richard removed the ring from the box and held it up to her. My love. My Viveca. Will you marry me?

Viveca sat in silence for a moment, taking in his words, his expression, and the vast and eternal love she saw there. When Richard had said forever, he’d obviously meant it. Then she smiled and said, Yes, I will!

Nana clapped her hands as Viveca and Richard embraced. When the hug was spent, he slipped the ring onto her finger. They sat at the table in a moment of silence, smiling and sipping their tea. In another moment, Nana stood and declared that she had people to call.

Um, Nana? Viveca knew she had to stop her grandmother before matters got out of hand.

Nana stopped in midstep and turned to Viveca and smiled. Yes, dear?

We want a very small ceremony, Nana. Richard won’t have any family here for the wedding, so we want just a small affair. Something simple, nothing fancy.

But you haven’t even set a date yet, honey. Who’s to say if Richard’s family can’t come once you’ve set one?

Nana, Richard said sadly, my mum and dad are dead. So are my brothers. I’m afraid I’m all who’s left of my family.

Nana sat back down. Oh my, I’m very sorry, Richard. I got so excited that I didn’t think of your family. Please forgive me.

There’s nothing to forgive, Nana, Richard said warmly.

Well, then, Viveca, we must introduce him to my friends in the community. Why don’t the two of you accompany me to the church social tonight? It’s a nice mix of older and younger people. There will be food and music and fun. She reached over and patted Richard on the hand. You’ll have family then, my dear.

Chapter 3

It might have all been a dream, or at least Charles Rainier hoped so. He pulled into his parking space in front of the morgue building and switched off his vehicle’s engine. He sat in silence for a moment, gripping the steering wheel and staring ahead at the glass doors, which stood a short distance from the parking lot. Everything about the building looked the same as before. He took several deep breaths, then opened his vehicle’s door, and headed toward the entrance.

He took his time inside, straightening papers, slipping into his lab coat, and checking some equipment in the lab. He went to the sample cabinet and removed the vial of blood from Brenda Matthews’s autopsy. There was visibly less blood inside the