Chapter 50: Origins

Lucien pulled his car up in front of an old plantation house in Savannah, Georgia. Parker stared at the house. It had a white picket fence and several children’s toys scattered across the perfectly manicured front lawn.

Several lights were on in the house, exuding a warm, comfortable glow into the darkened streets. Even from outside, Parker could hear the laughter of two young boys inside the house.

“He’s done well for himself,” Parker muttered. Lucien reached across the seat and took her hand in his. He squeezed her fingers gently.

“Come,” Lucien said as more of an order. He got out of the car, but Parker was slower to follow.

Lucien slipped his arm around Parker’s waist, pulling her against him. She bit her lower lip, still enjoying the heightened sensations of being close to him.

The house had a covered, wrap-around porch. There was a swing near the door that creaked in the nighttime breeze. Lucien knocked on the door.

From inside, the laughter ceased.