I don’t take his hand right away. I want to make him work for it somehow. I still didn’t know why I was here but knew it was essential and somehow related to the guy that was murdered. And that’s why I was here in the first place right? I repeated in my head. The chance to see my parents again was too strong, not to come here. If the vampires were involved, I’d figure it out.
I lift my hand up, so he’d have to step forward to me. He’s hesitant but motivated to play my game.
His cheeks widen as a small grin forms on his lips. He takes my hand and slips it under his arm. “That wasn’t so bad, was it?”
I can’t inhale his gorgeous scent quickly enough. The heat of his body so close to mine makes it difficult to think of anything but it. I manage a half-smile and push my head as far to the opposite side of him, without looking like a freak, in hopes to slow the redness rushing to my face.
“It says a lot that you are here. That means something to me.” Ivor said, as he guides us along the driveway to the house.
As we turn the corner, the house suddenly appears, in all its glory. It’s better than in the movies. It’s a freaking castle! Lights hidden in the grass, reflect on its stone facade. The window panes are wavy, giving me an indication of how old the building is. The front door looks medieval, with its cast iron door knocker.
“Most people are intimidated,” Ivor said, as he let go of my arm and looked down at me, “but I’m guessing you’re not.”
I wasn’t about to admit that he’s right, houses like this mean something. They’ve been around for hundreds of years and seen and know more than any of us ever could. Except, supernatural’s live for many lifetimes as well. “How long have the Stanton’s been here?”
“Since the first brick was laid. My great grandfather purchased this land from the native people. He learned from them and passed it down to us.” Ivor’s hand squeezes mine.
“You’re lucky to have those memories.” I avoid eye contact with him, with his rich family history he’d never understand my background. I’d give anything to have something passed down from my parents.
“I’ve heard a little of your history. I hope one day you’ll feel comfortable enough to talk about it with me.” Ivor gazes down at me.
I move toward the castle ahead of him. As much as I wanted to know everything, he knew about me, this wasn’t the place or time for that conversation. I’d rather see Alexandra than dive into that topic with him. Not that I think he wouldn’t be sympathetic, but I still didn’t know what side he was on. I’d know more by the end of the night.
As we approach the castle door, it swings open, and Alexandra steps out with a scowl on her face. It’s a clear sign she is unhappy that I’m here, and she’s not going to hide it. She’s wearing a tight leather dress on her petite figure. Her long, straight, black hair contradicts her bright green eyes.
“Alexandra,” Ivor said, clearly as a reminder.
“Welcome,” Alexandra states, like a tween being told to do something, to get their cell phones back.
“Thank you,” I mutter, wishing Ivor was at my side, and not behind me. I didn’t trust the bitch as far as I could throw her.
“It shows a strong alliance, Penelope accepting our invitation. Don’t you think, Alexandra?” Ivor said, as he steps beside me.
“Whatever,” Alexandra’s voice purrs in a low tone, her eyes fix on my every move.
Ivor takes my arm and guides me past, Alexandra. I don’t miss the opportunity to show her my delight in her brother taking her down a notch.
I quickly forget about Alexandra, as we enter the foyer. It’s just as grand as its exterior. The heels of my shoes click on the marble floor as I catch my reflection in the large gilded mirror. The walls are covered in wood from floor to ceiling. I sniff the air and determine its walnut. The width of the foyer is larger than my dormitory room. There are several tables with antique vases and other knickknacks lining the hall.
“Do you have a dungeon? You must have a dungeon.” I had too many questions about this historic house to keep my cool. History was one of my favorite subjects, even though human textbooks had it all wrong.
“If I said we did, I’d have to tie you up.” Ivor tilts his head closer to me, and flashes a flirty smile.
“Gross.” Alexandra said, as she drags her feet into a room off to the left of us.
“Don’t let her ruin what could be a fun night.” Ivor extends his hand in the direction of the room that Alexandra had just entered.
“... I have better things to do tonight.” I catch the last half of Alexandra’s speech as I step into the room.
Arthur, Finley, and Hunter all sit around the large fireplace. They’re dressed as if we were going to attend a formal dinner party. I pull at my stretched-out T-shirt and sit in the seat closest to the door.
“Please, have a seat.” Alexandra narrows her eyes at me, and I wonder if there is a trap door under one of the chairs.
At this point, I’m fully aware that nothing I do could please her, and there’s no point in trying. Arthur and Hunter throw a quick nod my way. I’m not sure if they are scared to speak to me because Alexandra is there, or if they are really not pleased that I’m in their parlor room.
“Thank you for coming,” Finley said, approaching me with a drink. The water in the glass shakes from his awkward hand. His hair is slick back, and his complexion pales
