Marked by the Vampire King: The Entire Chained Saga: The Chained Saga

By Arianna Courson

A heart of ice and a desire for blood... A city of frost and an ocean of red... 

What would happen if a vampire and a snow angel clashed together? A boy who fed off her kind... and a girl who was the most powerful being in existence? 

What if your dreams came to life... and you were left with nothing except for him? 

Stained lips on her frosty skin... 

Winter Evans fell in love with a vampire, and now he wouldn't let her go. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Bad Wolfe Collections
• Release date: Jan 17, 2025
• ISBN: 9798230169154

Arianna Courson

Arianna Courson is an author of young adult and adult fiction, specializing in paranormal, fantasy, and romance. She lives in Colorado with her fat kittens and four cute puppies. Despite her writing activities, Arianna also enjoys music, songs that inspire her work. She divides her time between writing, watching anime, and enjoying the great outdoors.

Book preview

Quiet, Now

Book 1 of The Chained Saga

1

Winter stood on a sandy beach, staring off into the distance where the sunlight reflected off the water like city lights.

It was one of those dreams where she could see herself like she was watching everything happen...

Instead of experiencing it truly...

Her black hair blew in the cool breeze, and she could almost feel the relief on her heated skin.

Almost...

But the wind kicked up and sand hit her skin enough to feel like blades...

She almost yelped and waved off some of the debris... maybe attempt to shield her face...

But something caught her eye...

A bundle of flower petals swirled in front of her like a beautiful tornado of pink and red... circling around a section of the sand as if trapping someone...

But it wasn’t trapping someone... it was... creating something...

And as she stared... from the tornado of petals, emerged a boy.

It was him again... dark hair... pasty white skin...

The boy from her dreams. The one her mind created...

Winter thought maybe she wanted someone her age to care about her... like she would to them... but he always seemed so... real...

She couldn’t imagine herself creating this... and how her dreams were always calm and remotely... sane.

She took this moment to study the boy as he stared off into the distance, watching the waves drift up the shore and back down...

He was tall, lean, and skinny, but she never saw his face.

It was always covered by shadows... his expression always a mystery...

What was he feeling? Sadness? Happiness? Anger?

And she hadn’t seen him in over a month... never heard his voice...

She wondered what he sounded like... if he had a deep tone that shook the walls or a soft tone that sounded gentle...

The only thing she noticed about him was that he had dark colored hair... though she could never tell if it was black or brown.

He looked to her then, staring at her for a moment.

Winter couldn’t see the look on his face, what color his eyes were... but she could feel the heat of his gaze burn her skin like fire...

Snowflake, he whispered to her for the first time, it is almost time to go. Be cautious.

Before she could ask him what was coming, the corners of his mouth tilted almost mischievously... and he was gone within seconds.

The only thing left of him were red petals that floated in the humid air.

They almost looked the color of fresh blood...

Winter’s ears burst when the ring from her alarm clock burned through her dreams, turning them to ash as she sat up on her bed, gasping.

It only took a couple of seconds for her sight to adjust to the darkness, but she noted an outline of large blackout curtains, a writing table with papers scattered across the surface, and her clothes that were thrown across the floor in a hurried mess from the night before.

Just my room... she thought. And only a dream...

She wondered why the mysterious boy had been gone for so long... why he had showed last night...

And he spoke for the first time... and his voice wasn’t deep, dark, or scruffy...

It was low and calm...

Calm in a soothing way... and also in a creepy way...

She shook her head, clearing all thoughts...

Just a dream, Winter, she thought. You’re fine...

But why did he say... "It’s almost time to go"?

Where was he going to take her?

She shook her head again.

Dream, Winter, she told herself again. Stop questioning something that’s not real. You have better things to do like get an A on your Algebra test today.

Stretching out her arms, she let out a big yawn, emptying her lungs before slipping her legs off the bedside.

The ringing still shattered her eardrums, but really, she didn’t care. This happened every morning...

After letting out a big sigh, she groaned...

She wanted to stay in that dream and question the hell out of that boy.

But it wasn’t real...

Part of herself knew that... but the other sent a slight coil to her stomach.

But she picked up her alarm clock off her nightstand, the yellow dwarf’s big black eyes haunting her like she was staring into hell.

She drew her arm back and threw the creepy dwarf at the wall, shattering it into pieces of machinery and plastic.

Yes! she exclaimed loudly, mainly to get out of her own head. It’s finally gone!

Lazily, she pulled her purple comforter off herself, the cold rushing up her legs like bitter ice.

She rolled off her bed, tempted to fall on the floor, but the better half of herself just had to stand up.

In half-drowsiness, she stumbled to the door.

And she walked out of the entryway, down the hall to the living room where her mom, Sam, sat on the couch, watching one of her game shows like she did every morning.

Winter had to question whether or not her mother got up at two in the morning just to watch the entire thing...

Sam’s eyes focused on Winter the moment she walked into the room.

Hi, Sweetie! How did you sleep?

Meh, she said, eyes weighing down with exhaustion.

Still having nightmares? she said sympathetically.

Winter nodded briefly.

Was it a nightmare...? She still didn’t know if she could answer that question honestly.

They should stop soon, Sam assured her. I know your father’s death still hurts, but it’ll get better, I promise.

Did you go through the same thing? Winter wondered, actually curious.

Sam nodded, smiling softly now. Yeah.

So... if she knew how this felt, then she must be right.

I need a new alarm clock, Winter stated suddenly, a lazy grin splitting her face.

This seemed to take her mother off guard, as expected. "Another one? she almost yelled. This is the seventh one!"

Maybe you should make them less intimidating and I won’t feel the need to be destructive. She shrugged innocently.

So... Sam’s tone was dripping with sarcasm, "you want a fluffy pink puppy with beating blue eyes?"

"That would be ideal for a five year old, Winter stated boldly. I’m sixteen."

Sam let out a long sigh. Anyways. You have school to go to, don’t you?

Yep. Winter pushed the urge to snap when Sam changed the subject... again...

"Then go wear your most beautiful pink dress!" Her mother batted her eyelashes innocently.

Once again, she stated. Not five.

Fine then. Her lips twitched. She was clearly fighting a smile. Go wear your teenage crop top and torn jeans.

I’m not popular either, mom.

"Black death metal shirt, and torn jeans?"

Nor am I emo or goth, she stated.

Just go, she looked back at the TV and waved her hand lazily, indicating for her to leave, shoo, shoo.

Winter rolled her eyes again and stepped to her bathroom to get ready for school.

It only took fifteen minutes to get to school, but Winter was there, standing in the middle of a giant crowd of high schoolers.

For some reason, these teenagers always found it easy to stop and talk to their friends in other people’s ways.

The double doors rested in front of her, she stared at them for a moment, hesitating to go inside.

It was the first day of school after a ridiculously short fall break.

Why did her school specifically have to have a Friday off in October, and call it a break?

She never really understood that.

On a scale of one to ten, she was excited a one and irritated a nine.

She always hated school... And no, it was not the reason why other kids hated it.

It wasn’t the school work or homework or just anything learning related.

It was the stupid teenagers that treated others like trash.

Build them up, get them to spill their secrets, and gossip their personal stuff they told you to other students.

And, no, this did not happen to her. She saw it happen to one of her older friends. She had an abusive problem at home that she expressed to the wrong people, and the news was in the entire social media network. People called her names, weak, deranged, stupid, submissive.

And... that led her to her death... She just couldn’t stand it anymore, Winter guessed...

After her, Winter refused to make any friends, talk to anyone, and try to get alternative assignments so she didn’t have to do group projects. She honestly didn’t care about the extra work, just as long as she could stay quiet.

The thought of her being stereotypical never crossed her mind... she had one personality placed on every child in the school...

It really wasn’t them... it was mainly her...

She had major trust issues.

Eventually, enough people got out of the way so Winter could open the door, and she stepped in.

This school smelled overwhelmingly like perfume, cologne, and sweat mixed in one odor.

She wasn’t sure if she should’ve been surprised or not.

When she stood in the entryway, she stared up into the ceiling, examining the color scheme of the school like she had never been there before.

Just blue... grey...  green... Nothing remotely interesting...

Hey, a man’s voice echoed from behind her, you dropped this.

She turned to see a tall teenage boy standing in front of her. He had light blue eyes that held something dark in them.

He also had dark hair, a slight lighter color than hers, he was lean, skinny, and had pale skin.

He reminded Winter of someone... though she couldn’t think of it at the moment...

You okay...? He tilted his head to the side, studying her with a small smile.

Something about him didn’t sit well with her... Especially with the look in his eyes...

Umm... yes... she managed to mutter, hoping he heard her.

You dropped this, he said again, holding out her wallet.

Whoa... any teenage boy would keep the money for themselves... and buy a car... especially with the money she had in there...

Why was he different...? This surely was odd...

What’s your name? he wondered.

Oh... Winter....

She was being very hesitant, and she could tell by the way he talked to her that he noticed it.

I like that name, the boy said. It’s my favorite season.

Thanks, she whispered, though she knew she didn’t sound like she meant it.

She couldn’t get attached to him. He looked a little scary...

Do you recognize me? he quizzed.

A shock of surprise hit her gut. No, she almost sounded defensive, but really she was confused, what are you talking about?

He did seem familiar, though.

The boy only smiled. I’m Cameron, but I go by Cam.

She tried complementing him back. I like your name, as well.

Thanks, he said. I appreciate it.

You have a little red on your chin, Winter said, pointing to her face as an indication.

He wiped it off with his thumb. Hmm... so I do.

What is it? she quizzed.

"Aren’t you nosey?" Cam smiled, though not innocently.

When she was quiet, he exhaled a low chuckle. It’s just tomato juice.

Gross... she commented, sticking out her tongue. "You drink tomato juice?"

You don’t like tomato’s? he wondered, dodging her question.

No, they’re gross.

That’s good to know, Winter Evans. Thanks for the input.

You’re welc— She broke off, staring up at him then. Hold on... I didn’t tell you my last name. And I don’t have a ID card in there....

She snatched her wallet out of his hand seconds later, and he smiled at the harsh response.

The bell’s going to ring soon, Cam warned. It’s almost time to go, Snowflake.

She froze, ice sticking her feet to the ground, but he continued walking to his class as if he didn’t notice her being phased at all.

But he was smiling... and it clearly was lethal around the edges...

What did he just say? It was almost like the boy from her dream... but, no... that couldn’t be possible...

It was a dream... and dreams couldn’t come to life...

Snowflake, it’s almost time to go. Be cautious.

2

Winter sat at her desk in her Algebra class, staring at the clock as her stomach stirred.

The teacher hadn’t come in yet, all the students messing around and tossing papers at each other even when class started in two minutes...

She let out a sigh, resting her head on the table...

She just wanted to do the math test... to take her mind off Cameron... the thoughts that questioned her sanity...

She looked down to her lap, where her wallet rested in her hand...

Just comprehending how the hell he knew all those things was making her thoughts stir...

She never told him her last name... and he asked for her first name...

Maybe she knew him when they were in elementary school... did she even know any Camerons back then...?

The name didn’t seem familiar in any sense...

And... he said "It’s almost time to go. Be cautious" just like the boy in her dream... He even called her... "Snowflake."

If this was a coincidence then this was one hell of one...

He hadn’t appeared in her dreams in over a month... and the next day... this happened?

Winter started to think she was going crazy.

Alright, class, Mr. Young’s voice broke through her thoughts, and she looked up, watching him stroll into the classroom. He was one of those overly kind teachers who gave Winter some alternative assignments... mainly when there were group projects, but when it came to distractions, he wasn’t the... kindest...

Class starts in thirty seconds, he said, proving her point, and all of you better put your phones away now. I don’t want to see them. And if I do, I’ll throw them in the trash can and you’ll have to dig it out of the disgusting tissues after class ends.

Some of the students muttered something angrily, other’s listening without another word.

Good job, he praised sarcastically, the bell rattling Winter’s years a second later. Before I start class, he uttered, we have a new student today.

Winter’s stomach stirred...

Oh, God... not him... please not him...

This is Cameron Arcus, Mr. Young continued.

God dammit...

He’s not new to this school, but he transferred classes due to there being overcrowding in his other class.

And as a new actor introduced to the play, a dark-haired boy strolled into the classroom confidently, standing in front of the room as his dark blue eyes searched all the students curiously.

Then his eyes landed on Winter, and his lips titled into a smirk.

Crap...

Where do you want to sit, Cameron? Young wondered. You can sit anywhere. There’s a lot of room.

Winter looked to the empty chair next to her, then back at Cam, shaking her head.

He knew very well what she was saying, but clearly did not care.

I know her, he said, gesturing to Winter with a wave. I’ll sit next to her.

She wanted to slam her head into the table until this dream would be over.

Alright, Young said, go on.

And he weaved through the valley of desks, clearly knowing some girls staring at him in surprise, others with jealousy, but he didn’t seem to care.

He was hyper focused on Winter, and she couldn’t understand why.

Cam settled into the seat next to her, resting his cheek in his hand while eyeing her thoughtfully.

She just kept her face in her hands, trying not to look at him and give him the satisfaction.

Hey, he said, tapping her back, you awake?

"Don’t touch me."

He pulled his hand away then, though she still didn’t look at him. You okay, Snowflake?

Don’t call me that either.

Why?

Because it was what the boy in the dream called her, and she felt her sanity hanging from a thread, but she kept silent.

Why, Winter?

She gritted her teeth, wanting to snap at him but she knew the entire class would watch their conversation if she did. Right now, she’d rather be the only one hearing him talk.

Playing the silent game? he said, tone dripping with amusement. If I get you to talk, I’ll win?

Leave me alone.

Why are you suddenly so freaked out by me? he questioned.

Because he was making her feel insane.

So, Snowflake, he said then, leaning down as an attempt to see her face, how’s your mom?

Stop talking to me like you know me.

Why?

Because you don’t.

Yes, I do.

No, you don’t.

Will you look at me if I prove that I do?

She was silent.

But he only continued, "Your name is Winter Evans, your favorite food is bagels and cream cheese, strawberry specifically, you enjoy reading young adult romances and fantasize being in them."

Hold on, she said, "what?"

But he ignored her. "Your favorite book is Darker than Day, which is about a vampire and a teen girl. And your father died a year ago."

She was silent, but despite her entire body screaming otherwise, she looked to him, brows drawing together.

He only smiled.

How did you know that? she questioned then.

It’s all here. He tapped his forehead.

He didn’t mean he could read minds...

She hoped he didn’t...

So, Snowflake, he said then, smirking, any questions?

Who are you?

You know very well who I am, you just don’t want to admit it.

Because who she thought he was couldn’t even be slightly possible.

I want you to meet me somewhere, Winter, he said then.

No.

He raised his brows at her stern tone. You’re going to meet me there whether or not you like it.

You can’t force me, Cameron.

No, he said, smirking with mischief, but I’ll hunt you down and take you myself.

That’s called kidnapping, she stated despite her heart pounding against her chest. It’s illegal.

I don’t really care, he said, eyes growing dark, "because I’ve done much worse things, and I haven’t been caught."

He couldn’t be serious... He was messing with her.

"Are you trying to freak me out? she questioned silently, glancing at Mr. Young to make sure he didn’t overhear them talking. Because if that’s your ‘hookup’ tactic, it doesn’t work. She narrowed her eyes. On anyone."

You can drive, he said, ignoring her comment, right?

She glared.

Yep, you can. So, he tilted his head to the side, after school, meet me at Dunston River.

"Or what?"

He repeated the threat. "Or I’ll hunt you down and drag you there."

You’re freaking me out. She looked away.

I’m very much aware, but I have my reasons.

"Like what?"

He smiled. Ones I’m not telling you.

She shook her head, attempting to take deep breaths. "What did you mean by... ‘done much worse’ than kidnapping?"

If I tell you, you’ll freak out.

"Like I’m not already." She shot him a glare.

Are you?

"Answer the question."

"Meet me at Dunston River, and I’ll tell you, Winter."

She shook her head and stared back at the teacher. "No."

And before he could respond, the bell rattled the classroom, and she grabbed her backpack, stood, and stepped out of the classroom without another word.

She hoped he would back off... because something was building up inside her...

Some sort of curiosity... and she needed it to settle.

Because she knew something about him was dangerous... and she shouldn’t be near him.

She doubted he knew where she lived, and if her mother was home—and she should’ve been because she worked from home—he wouldn’t be able to get near her...

She was safe...

You’re fun, Winter, a voice echoed from behind her. "Very fun, and interesting, too. I’ll see you soon at Dunston River."

She turned to snap at Cam, but the spot where the voice came from was empty.

It probably was just in her head.

But she shook her head as if to clear her thoughts, and started to her next class.

3

Winter had been walking down the shaded roads for over twenty minutes when she made it to her street, starting down her neighborhood.

She knew her mom was home, so once she got there, she’d be safe... She also knew that she should’ve driven to school, but she couldn’t foresee the future... and she sure as hell didn’t expect a guy from her dreams to be real, and the fact that he was most probably stalking her.

Winter guessed it could’ve been her subconscious mind giving her those dreams... maybe she knew that he was stalking her... seen him somewhere...

Yes, that sounded like a possible reason...

Not the fact that supernatural beings existed.

When she made it to her doorstep, she froze in place, blood turning cold.

There was a certain someone sitting on her doorstep... dark hair... blue eyes, staring down at the sidewalk lazily as if he’d been waiting there for a while.

Cameron...

He looked up when she stood there, and smiled. "Now you’re home, he said as if he knew she’d be home earlier. Do you drive twenty under the speed limit, Snowflake?"

She opened her mouth and closed it again, trying to understand why the hell he was sitting outside her house, and also... how long...

I walked, she said finally. And stop calling me ‘Snowflake.’ It’s creepy.

Cameron only smirked, but looked to the ground, hiding his expression.

How did you know where I live? she said then. "And how did you know when I usually get home?"

I know a lot about you, Winter, he said, pushing his hands on his knees and standing.

"Have you been stalking me?" she questioned as he brushed the debris from the sidewalk off his pants.

Maybe.

Why?

I have my reasons.

"You haven’t told me what yet, Cameron."

His smile somehow widened. Because you didn’t me at the arcade yet.

I wasn’t planning to, she snapped.

He only chuckled. That’s why I’m here. He gestured to her house.

Because you saw me walking home and you guessed I wasn’t going to follow through? she quizzed.

No, he said, shrugging, I knew you weren’t going to follow through the moment I said it.

"Then why did you threaten me?"

He raised his brows. "I didn’t ‘threaten’ you, Snowflake."

"Really? she said sarcastically. So when you said, ‘Come to Dunston river or I’ll drag you there myself,’ that wasn’t a threat?"

He laughed softly. "You make a good case, Snowflake. Do we need to take this to court, ‘cause I have a good defense lawyer."

"What’s your ‘defense’ then?"

That I was testing you, he stated.

Why?

Because I wanted to see if you’d get scared and run away with your tail between your legs, or be interested and come with.

And what did you find out?

Neither.

She narrowed her eyes. Elaborate.

You’re a spit-fire, Winter Evans. Nothing I say will get you to come willingly.

"So you’re just going to kidnap me?"

"It’s more of... save."

"From what? You?"

Amusement still lit his eyes. That’s part of it.

"You’re making no sense."

I’m very much aware.

"Then why the hell are you confusing the hell out of me?"

He laughed then. Once again, I have my reasons.

She pointed to the road. Get off of my property before I call the police.

Why? he wondered curiously. Do I scare you?

He did more than scare her, he screamed insanity.

And she was going slightly crazy. "Get out."

He stepped over to her then, continuing until they were inches apart. I know you’ll come willingly... eventually, and you can call me when you’re ready to, Winter.

Before she realized it, his warm grip held onto her wrist, and she pulled away suddenly, making his lips tilt higher.

Call me, Winter, he said. I know you will eventually. That won’t come off any time soon.

She followed his gaze down to her arm... where there were ten numbers written in red on her skin...

His phone number...

When did he...?

But when she looked up to question him... he was gone...

She ran up to the road then, looking up and down the street to find it empty despite a couple cars parked on the side of the road...

Jesus... it was like he could teleport or something...

He was probably a fast runner.

She looked to her arm.

Call me. 207-344-0089

No, she wouldn’t. She would not call him...

But she had to question... why did he want to meet at Dunston River specifically?

Well... it was one of her favorite arcades to go to after school... and he was a stalker...

She wanted to go there tonight... but not when he would be there...

Just him knowing where she lived freaked her out...

He might as well know everything about her, her social, her number, her driver's license code...

She didn’t have her license with her today... because she wanted to walk to school... but he knew her name which gave her bad vibes... and she wasn’t sure if she liked it.

Or him for that matter.

You have a little red on your chin.

Oh... so I do.

What is it?

Tomato juice.

It mind as well be blood... because Winter wouldn’t be surprised if he killed people in his spare time.

She sighed stepping up to her front doors seconds later.

Acouple minutes after Winter stepped into her house, she found no signs of her mother... Just a note on the fridge that said:

Had a work emergency, also had to go deep in the city... Sorry, Honey...

I’ll be back after five.

-  Mom

Great, she thought at the time.

Currently, Winter sat on her bed, staring down at the floor as she kicked out her legs as an attempt to get her energy out.

No math homework... no homework in general...

What was she supposed to do?

She wanted to go to Dunston River to play some games... but that was before she had a little encounter with a certain stalker.

Creepily pale... too...

She looked to the clock on her nightstand:

2:49 pm.

God... why did school have to end at two every day?

And why did she have to wait two hours until her mother got home...?

Then an idea popped in her head...

Maybe she could go to Dunston River... she knew it was where Cameron told her to go, but if she called him to make sure he wasn’t there and then ended the call before any other conversation... and if she wore a disguise... she might’ve be able to not draw attention to him...

A smile crept onto her expression.

Goodbye, boredom...

She looked to the phone number on her arm... He might’ve known her phone number... but if she called from her home phone... he probably wouldn’t recognize her...

She tiptoed out from her bedroom, sneaking to the kitchen which was where the nearest phone was and typed in his phone number, taking a deep breath before blowing it out and pressing talk, holding the phone to her ear.

The line rang for a moment, and it clicked...

Hello? Cameron said through the other line.

Oh, God, oh, God, oh, God... What was she supposed to say to not sound suspicious?

Hello? he said again.

Oh, yes, Winter said with a Texan accent, sorry about that, I was talken to my boss.

Who is this? he questioned.

Oh... good... he knew it wasn’t her...

She knew practicing her fake accents would come in handy one day.

Is this Cameron Arcus? she said.

Yes.

Hi, I’m Amelia from the police department, we got a call from a... Samantha Evans? Do you know her?

Yes... he said suspiciously, what’s this about?

Her daughter Winter Evans told her that you’d been stalking her, and while this investigation is undergoing, we need you to stay away from her.

He was silent.

Where are you right now, sir?

He was quiet for a moment, and she worried that he hung up when he responded, I’m not near her, if that’s what you’re asking.

I’m not asking that, sir. I’m asking for your whereabouts.

Why?

Tell me where you are sir so we know she’s safe or I’ll get a warrant out for your arrest.

He sighed. I’m at Mario’s subs on twenty-second street.

Alright, she said in the same accent, excitement warming her inside, I’ll send some officers to your location so we know for sure.

That’s really not necessary, he stated quickly as if scared. I swear I’m nowhere near her house.

If you go near her again, we have reason to arrest you, understood?

Yes, ma’am.

Have a good day.

And she hung up.

Holy crap... she actually fooled him!

Winter couldn’t help but jump in the air happily...

She could go! And he wouldn’t bother her anymore!

So she slipped on her shoes, grabbed her purse, and darted out the garage door.

It was a little after three when Winter parked in front of Dunston River, swinging out of her car and locking it with her key.

She had a baseball cap on and tucked her hair behind it, hiding the color and style, she also put on some of her old clothes that she wore in middle school...

Cosplay, mainly...

She had to choose between the anime skirt and a death metal T-shirt, or a maid costume.

She choose the primary for obvious reasons...

She didn’t want to attract attention to herself... and compared to what she wore now... the maid cosplay would do the exact opposite.

After checking her car was locked by pulling the handle, she looked around under her ball cap to see any signs of Cameron, and ended up finding none...

So she stepped casually to the front doors despite her entire body screaming to get inside where it was darker, louder, and it would be harder for him to recognize her...

When she made it inside, after feeling a heat wave from the vents on the ceiling, Winter walked in—once again—checking for anyone who looked similar to Cameron, but there was no one.

So she stepped over to one of her favorite games named, Arcus... Which was a tad concerning due to that being Cam’s last name, but she pushed the thought away.

She inserted some coins, leaning back up and started playing...

It was a game where you learned how to defeat every boss with strategy, but never got boring no matter how many times you played it.

Winter got to the point where she won almost every time, and she started smiling as little explosions splattered across the screen.

She was in the game for about three minutes before a voice echoed through her ears:

You go girl.

Her entire screen exploded, and she got the "YOU DIED" logo, but she froze at the sound of Cameron’s voice.

So... he said, you up for a game of foosball?

She was silent for a moment, staring at the screen in shock. You weren’t supposed to be here... and you weren’t supposed to talk to me....

"Is this about that ‘police call?’" he wondered curiously, leaning a shoulder on the machine. "‘Amelia,’ huh? You’re a pretty good actor, Snowflake. I almost believed you."

What gave me away? she wondered, looking to him now.

He had a small smirk, but his eyes searched hers thoughtfully. "The fact you said ‘police department’ and didn’t state what city. And how you were so eager to know where I was."

I thought I was convincing.

You were, he said, nodding, but I knew you were going to do something like that.

How?

He shrugged. I just expected it.

"What if I was the police? she questioned. Then you would’ve talked to me, and they could’ve sent you to jail."

True, he said, so that’s why I searched up all near police department phone numbers, and none of them matched yours.

She gulped...

Crap...

I thought I fooled you, she said then.

I know, he said, smirking, that’s why I’m a good actor, too, Snowflake.

She was silent.

So... he said, foosball?

No... she shook her head, my mom’s going to be home soon... I should go back.

He grasped her arm, turning her to face him.

Despite his mischievous nature... his grip was gentle. Come on, straight-A student, he said sarcastically, have some fun for once.

I said my mom’s—

Your mom’s not going to be home until five, he interrupted. It’s three. You have two more hours.

How did he know that?

He wasn’t inside her house... she knew because the front door was locked... and the note was on the fridge...

Come on, he said, have a little fun.

"I don’t know what your definition of ‘fun’ is, but keep me out of it."

"One game, he said. One?"

She looked to her car outside and back to him. That’s all?

I swear on my still-beating heart.

She told herself he was joking.

Fine....

H aha! Winter yelled as the plastic soccer ball went into Cameron’s goal. I win again!

You got lucky, he said, let’s try again.

"You said that the last fifteen games, she joked. And I exceeded the limit of our deal of one. That, and it’s four, we’ve been playing for almost an hour now."

So? he countered.

"So I have other errands to run, and I don’t need you attempting to win games and lose."

"One more, and I won’t lose."

She laughed not for the first time that night. "You’re a sore loser, Cam. Admit it."

He looked to her then, narrowing his eyes. Why the sudden urge to leave? Are you getting bored?

No, she said, shrugging, I already told you it’s getting late, and I have errands to run.

Like what?

Something I’m not telling you.

He shrugged. Alright, Winter. See you tomorrow.

She grabbed her purse and threw it over her head after shrugging on her jacket. See you tomorrow.

Before she could leave, he grasped her arm, pulling her a little back.

She shot a glare at him. I said I have to go.

I know, he responded, I just have a question.

What?

You didn’t want to come here with me, and you were terrified of me, I know you probably still are, but did you have fun?

She stared for a moment, recalling all the memories of earlier that day...

She came here because she thought he wasn’t here... he was stalking her and she was a bit freaked out by him... that and he was a creation of her dreams... something that shouldn’t be possible...

When she looked into his dark eyes, she still noticed the cold look in them, and she pulled out of his grasp. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves here.

Winter, he said before she could leave, you’ll come back tomorrow.

She shot him a glare at his demand. "You can’t control me, Cam. And I don’t have to listen to everything you say. Especially when you’re stalking me."

He smirked, the look saying, You sure about that?

Anger burned her inside with his smile.

But he waved. Bye, Winter.

She turned and stormed out of the arcade.

4

Winter sat in Kit-Cat cafe , holding a chai in her hands and hoping the warmth would heal the anger and fear burning her inside...

But despite the heat, she felt cold... and not because it was freezing outside... but because she was struggling to control her emotions...

She felt like she was losing her mind, and she needed control over herself when she wanted to ball up on the floor and cry until the pain left.

She still felt the dread of her father’s passing... It was a year ago and the police hadn’t ruled the cause of death...

He was shot... but whether it was a murder or a suicide, they hadn’t decided...

There was always evidence that declared both ways...

Winter’s father wasn’t depressed in the slightest... he was a good, loving man who cared about her dearly... and she couldn’t imagine who would want him dead...

A picture of Cameron flashed before her eyes...

She shook her head...

No... he didn’t seem the type to kill... he just was a little creepy... and well... secretive...

She looked out the window, watching small specks of snow drift onto the streets... melting into water on the cement...

The new season was slowly coming in... developing clouds among the blue sky...

Cameron’s words echoed through her thoughts...

I like that name. It’s my favorite season.

Why did he ask her name if he already knew it? If he was going to freak her out anyways?

She didn’t know... nor did she understand him...

There was something off about him... and not in a "he’s crazy" sense, but more of a... "he’s pale, and never eats" way...

He looked almost... dead...

She shoved the thought away, staring back into the streets.

Cameron Arcus... she thought. Who are you and why are you showing now?

She looked back to her tea then, watching the steam drift out from the hole in the lid before something caught her eye.

She looked up, seeing a certain someone watching her from another table.

He looked as if he were watching her thoughtfully before... as if studying her curiously, but when she locked eyes with him, his lips tilted.

She stormed up to him, glaring down at him as he sipped his tea as if not noticing her.

"Can you ever just, not follow me?" she snapped.

Then what will I do in my spare time? Cam said innocently, staring up at her.

"Be a normal person, that’s how."

"I’m not normal, nor am I a normal person."

She just shook her head. If you continue stalking me, I’m going to call the police.

"You sure? ‘Cause I feel like you’re stalking me... Everywhere I am... poof... there you are."

She glared, opening her mouth to yell at him but her phone came to life in her pocket, making him raise his brows when her fists clenched.

You gonna answer it?

She snatched the phone out of her purse, sighing in annoyance as she stared down at the screen. It’s my mom.

She probably was wondering where Winter was.

Winter swiped the answer button and pressed the phone to her ear. Hello?

Static.

What was going on with all these creepy things today?

"Hello?"

More static.

"Mom, if this is a prank call, I swear to God."

Wi— a voice said, ter— ba— don— come ho—

Mom, you’re breaking up.

"Winter! she yelled finally, her voice clearer than day. Where are you?"

Was it just her... or did she sound terrified...?

I’m at a cafe, mom, she responded.

"Are you safe?"

She looked to Cam, who’s brows were raised, then back at the wall. Yes, I believe so.

Oh, thank God!

Mom... Winter said softly, startled by her panicked tone, I didn’t hear you call... Don’t be scared... Don’t worry, I’ll be home soo—

No! her mother cried. "Don’t come home, Winter! Don’t!"

"What do you mean, don’t come home? she questioned sternly. What’s going on?"

Everything okay? Cameron said, but Winter’s adrenaline rush immediately blocked his voice.

A loud crash echoed from the other line... like a shattering of a window...

"Mom! What’s going on?"

He’s coming... I have to go, Honey... I’m sorry... This wasn’t how I wanted you to find out....

"Find out what? she yelled into the phone. Who’s coming? What the HELL is going on?"

I have to go, Honey... she whispered. I’m sorry....

"Mom! Winter yelled, panic coursing through her veins. Answer me!"

Another crash shook the house, and she heard her mother’s scream...

"Mom! she cried. MOM!"

Silence...

No one hung up the phone... but she could hear the wind howling through the broken windows...

She pulled the phone from her ear, staring off into space in horror.

Snowflake... Cameron whispered, did something happen?

She stepped back. I have to go.

Wai—

But she launched out of the cafe seconds later, ignoring the chills from the snow storm and got in her car, hauling down the road to her house.

5

The snow was dissipating when Winter drove up to her house, and she launched out of the car and up the steps, not caring that she parked in the middle of the road.

Once she saw the shattered living room windows, her body grew cold, and she darted up the steps, throwing open the front door and sprinted into the house.

Mom! she called. MOM! WHERE ARE YOU?

She made her way to her mother’s bedroom, the hallway that led to the kitchen, and her bedroom... no sign of her...

Pure panic burned her veins with frost, and she was hyperventilating to the point of where she felt light headed.

He’s coming...

This isn’t how I wanted you to find out...

WHO’S coming? Find out WHAT?

Did someone want her dead? Did they kidnap her?

MOM! she cried into the house, fighting down tears. WHERE ARE YOU?

Her sobs caught in her throat, temporarily choking her but she didn’t seem to care...

She was about to go to her mother’s bedroom again when she heard a low growl from behind her...

Like a dog...

But they didn’t have a dog...

She spun around... seeing a human-like shadow casting along the living room floor from the moonlight outside the windows...

It wasn’t Cam this time...

It was something else entirely...

Winter’s body froze in place when the shadow moved toward the kitchen’s entrance...

This wasn’t a human... this was growling like a dog...

But then it got closer to the kitchen, and she looked around for exits but there were none... just the entrance to her mom’s office...

So she grabbed a knife from a block on the counter, the ones that her mom always used to cook, and pointed it threateningly at the shadow...

But it creeped closer to the kitchen’s entrance, and closer...

Until it walked into her eyesight...

Winter’s eyes widened, breath catching...

It was a human-like figure with a long pointy tongue sticking out like it was taunting her... he had a bald head that was shaped like an upside down pear... skin a bright green... and back hunched like his spine was in a U shape.

She gulped when she noticed his long, sharp canines...

A monster...

He launched at her suddenly, faster than she could handle, and she screamed, slashing it with the kitchen knife but it wasn’t fazed at all, it just launched toward her again and threw her on the ground, knocking the breath out of her...

She fought back despite her being unable to breathe, reaching for the knife that slid across the floor when he tackled her...

Before she even knew it, his dagger-like canines sank into the skin of her neck, making her scream as his teeth burned her like fire...

She caught the knife then, stabbing him in the back, and he actually got off this time, rolling over in agony with some weird pain-filled growl, but she only rolled on top of him, stabbing him over, and over, and over again...

Until blood stained her shirt and hands...

And before she knew it, she fell off the demon and onto the kitchen floor, the blood inside her burning her veins like poison...

What’s happening to me...? she thought. Why can’t I move? Why does everything hurt...?

Winter felt the blood drip down her skin, leaving a cold, dark pathway from her neck to her chest, disappearing under the fabric...

I feel like I’m paralyzed... and I’m so tired...

She barely heard a door kick in before she left the real world, into the darkness of her mind...

Winter woke slowly , easing out of her dream world while she lay on something cold, but soft... and something warm draped over her chilled skin... she knew by the feeling... that it was a jacket.

When she opened her eyes, she looked around for a moment, taking in her surroundings before she saw a figure above her, staring off into the distance...

It was quite odd... she couldn’t see what it was... her sight was blurry as if she needed glasses...

She blinked slowly, still unable to move but couldn’t understand why...

Her arms and legs were paralyzed...

She pushed away her anxiety, staring back up at the figure who sat above her...

They clearly didn’t notice she was awake... just staring off into the distance...

She wondered what the figure was looking at...

The way they were sitting... and how close they were... she knew by the cushion under her head, that she was resting on their lap.

As her sight adjusted a bit, she attempted to say something, but her voice was lost in her throat... her throat that burned like fire...

She did make little quiet noises, though... and it caught their attention.

The figure looked down at her, though she couldn’t see it’s expression. Oh, hey, there. How are you feeling?

She recognized that voice...

Cameron.

She tried to speak again but failed.

I know... he whispered, I’m sorry, Snowflake. I had to give you some holy water to counteract the venom.

Wait a minute... Holy water? And venom?

How does blessed water stop venom?

It does burn a little, he stated, so if your throat hurts, that’s why.

How did he make it go down her throat?

You fainted before, he explained as if she said her thoughts aloud. I managed to wake you up long enough to get you to drink it, and you fell back asleep.

She was silent, just stared up at him.

My— mo— m... she managed to get out from her scratched throat.

I don’t know where she is, he said softly. "But what I do know, Snowflake, is that you’re not safe by yourself anymore."

Oh, God... Where was this heading...?

Now that you’re here with me, his smile was all fox, you’re not allowed to leave.

She narrowed her eyes at him, wanting to say something along the lines, "You can’t kidnap me," or maybe, "I’m not coming with you," but she couldn’t speak.

He smiled at this. From now on, Winter Evans. You’re mine to keep. Mine to protect. All mine.

The look in his eyes told her he wasn’t joking in the slightest... there was a hardened look to them... possessive almost, but in a protective manner...

He’s not right... Something about him didn’t make sense...

Something’s not right...

But he looked back to the sky, smiling at the clouds...

It wasn’t a charming smile...

He was planning something... something bad... and she didn’t know what...

So, he said then, looking back down at her, do you want to go back to the chai place? Get some warm tea down your throat, it might help the burning.

She nodded slightly, unable to move still, so she opened her mouth to tell him but he pressed his finger to her lips. No more talking, Snowflake. I’ll carry you there, I know you can’t walk.

Her eyes rounded at the thought of this creepy boy holding her and taking her places when her voice was too scratched to call for help.

He might tell her where they’re going, but that doesn’t mean he wasn’t lying.

But he lifted her head off his lap, knowing fully that she was dead weight but didn’t care, just lifted her up and cradled her to his chest.

Oh, God... No, no, no...

She didn’t trust him enough...

She attempted to squirm in his hold, but she was only moving a little, and it made him look down at her with his brows raised. Why are you struggling? Are you not comfy?

She shook her head, attempting to say, No, I’m not comfy, but he took it the opposite way.

You are, that’s good.

His bare arms were pressed under her knees and back, and she could feel the warmth radiate off him in waves...

No... she was starting to enjoy this...

Damn it...

Why couldn’t she control herself?

Fighting him harder, she managed to squirm a little more, but was too weak to push against his chest and relaxed for a moment, catching her breath.

He was smiling down at her, clearly in amusement.

When she looked to his expression, she glared, shoving against his chest but he didn’t even sway...

Why won’t he let go?

She squirmed harder, only making him hold her tighter, but she managed to relax in his arms, catching her breath again.

You’re wearing yourself out, Snowflake, he stated then, watching her breathe. Struggle all you want, I won’t let go.

Why? she said, her voice raspy.

Because I don’t want to.

She glared, fighting again, but he only sighed, pressing her harder against him until her face met the bare skin of his neck.

She froze for a moment, feeling his skin lightly rub against her cheek...

How could someone so pale... be so warm and soft...?

One of his hands started caressing her back in soft circular motions, almost as if he were attempting to calm her...

I’m not letting go, he whispered in her ear. As I said, you’re mine to protect... All mine....

She didn’t move away from his neck even though her body screamed at her to... she just held herself there, letting his warmth deepen into her skin...

I swear on my still-beating heart...

If his heart was still... then how was he so warm...?

I’ll take you back to the cafe, alright?

Silence.

Order you a chai?

Silence.

Are you asleep already? He chuckled, his voice buzzing in her ear.

She shook her head.

Okay, then, I’ll take you there, and then I’ll take you to my place.

Silence.

I was kind of expecting you to freak out there... he admitted. But I guess not, huh?

Sc... Sch... School... she whispered.

He only smiled. No more school for you, Snowflake. I’m not letting you go. Ever.

No... I... need to go... tomorrow... go... to college....

Believe me when I say this, Sweetheart, he said, you don’t need to get a job.

W... why?

"Because I have a butt load of money. Enough to last us a lifetime."

How...?

I’m not answering that without a lawyer present, Evans. Don’t question me.

She gave up then, staring off into the distance as he started walking.

They were under a tree before... the white specks of snow catching on the leaves above them... So there was a patch of grass under the tree that was left out from all the other frost.

Winter recognized this place... it was the park a couple blocks from her house...

She watched the moonlight reflect off the metal of the playground... and a memory flashed across her vision...

Green skin... pointy tongue... dark eyes...

She touched the spot on her neck where he bit her... and she winced when the two holes in her neck burned with her touch...

Cam seemed to notice her flinch, and he looked to her. You okay?

She pointed to her neck. There was... a... mon... ster... and he... bit me....

Cameron only chuckled, holding her a little higher. "He wasn’t a ‘monster,’ Snowflake, he was a rogue vampire."

She froze.

They become rogue when they commit too many sins, he explained. Their bodies turn green, their tongues grow, and they become greedy and want blood all the time. They don’t really care what they do to get it.

Vampire? Sins? Monsters?

What the hell was going on? She didn’t understand anymore!

Are you... messing... with me...? she said then, a little annoyance in her tone.

Sadly, no, he stated. You should believe me, you saw him.

She froze again, body turning cold. "He... bit me! Am I... sick?"

No, he said, you won’t turn into one. I made sure of it.

A sudden thought crossed her mind...

Holy water...

That’s why he gave it to her...

You cold? he said suddenly. You’re shaking. Do you want a little closer?

No... she whispered. "Don— Ahh!"

He dropped her legs suddenly, holding under her thighs with his arm and used his other to press her head to his chest.

Umm... she uttered.

Are you still not comfy? he wondered curiously.

N... no... she said then, you... j... just... surpris... ed... me....

He only chuckled. I’m going to run, okay? We’ll get there faster.

She shook her head. I don’t... want to call the... pol— police... because you had a hear— heart attack... when you’d... try to run for the first time... in a couple... years....

Are you saying I’m unhealthy? He gave her an annoyed, but amused look.

She only smiled.

He shook his head in defeat, holding onto her tighter. I’m going to run in three, two....

I... don’t need you... to count do—

One.

Before she could utter another word, the world launched by them in light speed, making a choked cry escape her burning throat, and she clutched onto Cam with the little strength she had left.

The lights from the houses and buildings flashed across her vision, making her head spin, and her stomach sank to her feet as if she’d been falling off a cliff.

C— Cam! she cried. Too fast!

He only held her tighter, chuckling low in her ear. Oh, relax. We’re almost there.

And he stopped suddenly, making her lurch forward but his grip only tightened, almost knocking the breath out of her when she was pressed against him again like his arms were a safety belt.

We’re here, he said as if what he just did was normal.

She was gasping, clenching onto him like he were the only thing preventing her from sinking into hell.

He started rubbing her back gently as if to calm her, but didn’t say anything.

How... she whispered, tightening her grip on the back of his shirt. "Do you have... roller skates with rockets attached to them or something?"

Don’t you ever question why I just keep on vanishing? he wondered.

I thought you were just a fast runner... she admitted, like... you ran track or something....

"You think a normal person can run that fast?"

I thought... you... would hide behind things to freak me out....

She seemed to discard the normal person comment he made.

No, Snowflake, he said. I don’t.

Her grip still didn’t loosen.

I won’t do it again, he promised, when I’m holding you, okay?

She nodded, and he stepped into the café, her still in his arms.

When he made it to the tan-colored booth, he sat down with her in his lap.

Cam... she said, a little of her voice coming back, I don’t want to sit in—

I know. Give me a second, he interrupted, scooting a little in before setting her on the other side of him.

When he took his hands off her, she realized last minute that she didn’t even have enough strength to sit up, and she fell forward, face inches from the table when Cam caught her, chuckling.

I’ll let you lean on me, he said, guiding her to rest on his side before she could respond. There, better?

Her eyes moved to his arm that was wrapped around her, hand resting above her hip. Do you... have to put it there?

I have to make sure you don’t fall again. He was smiling. Either this, higher or lower.

She looked to her chest, then to her thigh, heart pounding. Never mind....

He chuckled. That’s what I thought.

But he waved at a waitress, catching her attention and she moved over to them, smiling. Hello, ready to order?

Yes, he said, I’d like a chai with some espresso and... he moved his gaze to Winter, who was staring off into space lazily, what do you want, Honey?

Regular... she murmured.

He watched her stance for a moment before returning his gaze to the waitress. Just a traditional spiced, decaf.

Alright, she said, scraping down to order into a small notebook. That’s all?

That’s all.

She smiled down at them. You didn’t hear this from me, but you guys are a cute couple.

Cam chuckled, then looked to Winter who wasn’t fazed by the waitress’s comment at all, just staring off into space, eyes darkening.

I’ll be back with your drinks, she said.

Thank you, Cam stated, and watched her walk off.

He then looked to Winter, watching her dark expression before snapping his fingers in front of her eyes, making her jump.

She shot a glare at him, but he wasn’t smiling now, just studying her curiously. Something’s off about you, he said, what’s up?

I just got bitten from a vampire, she snapped, what else?

He continued watching her. There’s something else, too. About your mother. You’re scared.

No, I’m not.

Yeah, he countered, "you are. Why else would you take off after a panicked phone conversation? And then when I come into your house—which by the way, has broken windows like it was robbed—I see you on the floor, passed out with a knife in your hand, and a dead vampire next to you which has... what... a hundred stab wounds in his chest?"

She was silent.

You killed him, he said, and stabbed him multiple times, repetitively.

He bit me, she said.

You could’ve ran.

I could’ve, and he probably would’ve followed me. And I would’ve collapsed with the venom he had.

You stabbed him in the back, Cam stated, I’m pretty sure he wouldn’t.

I didn’t know that. I was panicking.

Clearly, he said.

She was silent.

I’m not saying you shouldn’t have done that, he stated. I’m just proving a point.

"What ‘point?’"

You said you were panicking, he said.

"Duh. Who wouldn’t?"

Okay, drop the tude, he said.

She was silent, eyes slightly glistening from tears, but she blinked it away.

Winter, he said then, "you were panicking. You were scared."

No response.

Snowflake, he uttered, studying her dark features, why did your mom call you?

Silence.

You are going to answer me, he demanded.

It’s nothing.

You’re lying.

I’m not confiding in you. I don’t even know if you’re involved.

"Involved? he echoed. In what?"

I don’t know, she said then, "maybe you’re staking me because you want something from me. I’m probably the only kid in school who has no one who cares about me, so I’m an easy target. You decided to take my mother out of the picture so I had no one left, right? What’s next? Kill her? Demand something from me? Take me? And if I try to resist you, you’re going to do something drastic? Sadistic? Make me watch you torture her? Why else would you show up in my life?"

He was silent for a moment.

"Okay, one, you watch too many cop shows. Two, I’m not sadistic and I don’t torture people, okay? Three, I’m not the one who took your mom and I have no idea what’s going on. And four, I don’t want anything from you, alright?"

So, you’re saying you’ll let me go then.

Oh, he said, chuckling coldly, "nice loop-hole, Evans. But, you didn’t let me finish. I don’t want anything from you other than keeping you safe."

Yeah, she said sarcastically, I totally believe you. Because stalking me, freaking me out, and shoving burning water down my throat—which by the way, I don’t remember—is totally making me feel safe.

You’re right, he said, that’s not the only thing I want from you. But I already told you before, you’re mine, Winter.

She was silent.

"You