After dinner Laura stood up from the table with a smile that was never had to pretend," dinner was amazing, but I would love to return to my room now for a good night sleep, I would bade you goodnight now." Laura curtsied politely.
Leandro took a napkin and wiped his lips,he said" I would love to escort you back to your room if you don't."
Laura wasn't the least pleased to have him accompany her," I would be honored to have you accompany me back,but I fear it would be a lot of stress for you, I would manage."
Leandro seems more than ready to keep up with his offer."I insist I don't mind accompanying my wife to her chamber, don't worry about stress if I get too stressed I would be more than honored to spend a night in your chamber." Leandro said with a smile that felt too unreal.
Laura wasn't in the mood for banter, she offered a polite smile," if you wish to accompany me then it's as you wish, and if you feel stressed I would be more than honored to help send you your chamber."
"Great then." Leandro said and stood up going around to give Laura his hand.
Once their hands came in contact Laura felt the unimaginable warmth from his hand,she knew pure vampires had warm temperatures like humans but this was beyond imagination.
They walked through the long hall silently,candles were lit by the side,Laura felt very uneasy she had this deep feeling something was watching her from behind ,she looked around several times but they were the only one walking in the hall.
"Creepy"?Leandro asked noticing her constant
Laura smiled nervously, brushing off her unease. "Just a fleeting feeling, probably my imagination playing tricks on me," she replied, hoping to dismiss her fears.
Leandro's grip on her hand tightened slightly, his protection and concern evident. "It's natural to feel a bit unsettled in a new environment, especially one as mysterious as this mansion," he said reassuringly. "But I assure you, Laura, you are safe with me."
His words brought her a small measure of comfort, and she couldn't deny the warmth that his presence provided. As they continued walking, the sound of their footsteps echoed through the seemingly endless hallway, filling the silence that weighed heavily on them.
Finally, they reached the door to Laura's chambers. Leandro released her hand and turned to face her, his gaze gentle yet intense. "I hope you find solace and peace within these walls, Laura," he said softly. "If ever you need anything, do not hesitate to let me know."
Laura nodded gratefully, her apprehension momentarily pushed aside by his sincerity. "Thank you, Leandro," she murmured. "I appreciate your hospitality and willingness to accompany me. Goodnight."
"Goodnight, Laura," Leandro replied, his voice filled with a mix of tenderness and mystery. With a small bow, he turned and made his way back down the hall, leaving Laura to enter her room alone.
As she settled into her comfortable bed, Laura's mind raced with thoughts of the mysteries that awaited her. She knew deep down that her journey had only just begun, and that there were still many secrets to uncover within the walls of Leandro's mansion. With that in mind, she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.
*** *** ***
Leandro walked through his mansion hall, and as he did, the flames on the candles flickered, casting eerie shadows that seemed to dance along the walls. He ventured deeper into the mansion, knowing that this part of the house held secrets and a sense of foreboding.
Eventually, he reached a massive wooden door, adorned with intricate carvings that told tales of mystery and dark magic. Leandro pushed the door open cautiously, revealing a hidden chamber that lay beyond.
Inside, a single candle cast a dim light in the room, barely illuminating the figure of a man who stood with his head bowed low. Leandro approached him, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and authority.
"Greetings, my loyal servant," he greeted the man. "I had believed you to be dead, as you were nowhere to be found when I returned with my bride. Explain yourself, Fred."
The man, known as Fred, lowered his head even further. "Forgive me, Milord," he pleaded. "I had ventured into the forest to rid your chambers of unwanted pests who had dared to intrude."
Leandro nodded, seemingly accepting his explanation. He settled into a comfortable sofa nearby, crossing his left leg over his right. "Very well, Fred. Fetch me a fresh drink, one that is young and full of life."
Fred bowed once more and silently left the room. Left alone, Leandro took a deep breath, his eyes focused on the moonlit night outside the window.
Minutes later, Fred returned, accompanied by a young maid, who trembled under his intimidating gaze. Fred directed her towards Leandro, and she approached him nervously, offering her hand.
Without hesitation, Leandro took her hand and sank his fangs into her delicate flesh, drawing out her life force. Unlike other vampires who preferred the neck, Leandro had always had a peculiar taste, finding satisfaction in the taste of blood from his victims' hands.
Within minutes, the maid's lifeless body slumped to the floor, and Leandro released his grip. He stood, using his thumb to wipe the blood from his lips, then turned to Fred.
"Dispose of her body," he ordered coldly. "And make sure to keep a close watch on everyone within this mansion."
Fred bowed once more, his eyes filled with fear, and began to carry out his master's command. As Leandro surveyed the room, a sinister smile played on his lips.