“Now, child, we do not forbid feeding directly from our guests,” Thaddeus went on softly,  “However, we prefer a much more modern, sustainable method of procuring our needful things with as little harm as required.”

With that, he stood the lantern on a nearby tray table near some surgical instruments and a group of glass juice carafes. Thaddeus took up a box of latex gloves from a shelf underneath and offered them to Melissa. She shook her head and stepped back, wordlessly. He replaced the box on the shelf, and looked at her directly.

“You won’t always be able to ignore the hunger inside you, miss,” he said. “And as we go to meet Mr. Fletcher, you’ll find you’d have rather been sated beforehand. But that choice is your own, of course. For now. It is not wise to let your thirst rule your decisions.” He paused only a moment and lifted the lantern, again offering his arm to her. Shall we retire to the upstairs? Or would you prefer some time here to change your mind?”

Again, Melissa shook her head, but more slowly and unsure this time, with a hand over her belly as if trying to stifle the reminder of her need for blood. She looked over her shoulder searching aimlessly in the dark for the stairs to the exit, and looked back to the manor’s servant who was again waiting patiently.

“I think it might be better to come back later,” Melissa said, not daring to outright refuse. “The thought of meeting your Mr. Fletcher sounds more…appetizing.” Her tone carried like a sale, the way she might with one of her club customers.

Thaddeus leaned close with the lantern glow under his face, hiding its features. “Young lady,” he said with a warning and low voice. “You are free to deny what you are to the brink of its dangers. But keep in mind I do not bear that same luxury.”

ISBN - 979-8-9873772-5-3