Chapter IV.

I moved away from him and dropped down to my knees, unable to fully grasp what he had just said. Love. Could it be possible? Only two people in my life at this point loved me. Catherine was one and my mother was the second. But Jean loved me obviously in a way I always hoped a woman would one day. He got down to my level at that point and attempted to kiss me, but I moved back.

"Don't do that Jean." I said icily-not at all caring that he looked hurt by this.

He sighed, closing his eyes briefly as I stand up and lay down onto my bed, leaving him on the floor. I was already feeling guilty for what I had done to him. The silence that followed was unbearable, so terribly unbearable. I couldn't stand it any longer after awhile-feeling that it was my duty to set things back in order with us. Back the way we had been before Jean's confession. I sat up and looked over at where Jean was-about to apologize. But something stopped me. There, on the floor wasn't the always poised-never wrong Jean that I had grown so use to-no on the floor was a trembling and crying boy. And from then on I felt as if we were equals.

The next day, mother told me that my father had gambled me off in some card game and lost. Thus, I was to marry some Duke's daughter when I reach the age of nine-teen. Devasting news for me. To have no say in the matter as if I were some common girl. It wasn't fair. I remember feeling both resentment and anger over the situation but there had been a bright side. I would be married. But where was the love? I would want to have my wife love me. That was important to me.

I set off to the lake to gather my thoughts after hearing the news. Jean followed closely behind-as usual. After I had seen him cry, my view of him had changed. He was no longer worth envying. We both had weaknesses. His is shockingly me. But Jean was still a mystery. But he was all I had-the one person that would never upset me.

The lake near the woods is my home away from home. Not much but the free and open atmosphere calms me-makes me forget problems. While I stood near the edge of the lake, Jean sat close by on the grass. The two of us looking solemn and lost in thoughts-Jean occasionally gazing at me then out at the lake.

"Jean."

He stands up and gives a curtly bow. "Yes Master?"

Once again I'm suddenly angry, clenching my fists. "Don't call me that."

"What ever do you mean Master?"

I stare up at him coldly, gritting my teeth. It's not long before I slap him across the face. "Call me by name, not title."

He nods-taking hold of my hand. "As you wish Gabriel."

I look out at the darkening sky-mind only filled with my future-which at the time was something that was starting to scare me. I had to know it. What would have her scream the way she did? There were so many things that could be the problem.

"Jean, I want to go back to that gypsy." I say aloud, ignoring the small droplets of rain that are coming down. "I need to know what she saw."

His hand squeezes mine gently. "It's troublesome to be going out so late and you know that your mother will not tolera-"

"I don't care." I look up at him defaintly. "This is more important."

He stared at me for awhile then adjusts his braid then gives a short nod of his head. "Very well Gabriel."

For a child of a Earl-life is sheltered and one thing for sure that was way too much of a risk was going into the city at night. Was I scared? A little. Who wouldn't. In the time of night evil comes out. It's dangerous-full of thieves and murderers. Jean being here somehow made me feel safer though. We walked hand in hand in the rain-through the mostly deserted city-keeping our eyes straight ahead. Jean skillfully guides us-even if it's dark he somehow manages. Seems like forever when we finally make it to this small clearing occupied with tents and a small wagon. This was their camping grounds.

Jean gently tugged me in the direction of the wagon, wrapping his cloak around the both of us. As we approach the wagon-light comes on inside and out steps Joanus-candle in hand. She looks from Jean to me-not the least bit surprised.

"Lord Arthur, I was expecting you." She says slowly, walking down from the wagon-gaze now on Jean cautiously.

"I wish to know what you saw." Jean looks down at me as I let go of his hand-getting closer to Joanus.

Someone moves within the wagon getting both Joanus' and my attention. A small wrinkly gray haired woman comes out-complexion the same as Joanus. She pulls the shawl over her head, piercing gaze settling on me. Her mouth draws into a hard line-clearly somehow knowing who I was.

"This is Joanus' great-grandmother Miorakin." Jean explained, grabbing my hand again and pulling me gently back. "Her powers are far greater than that of Joanus."

"Be gone from here young lord." The old woman said slowly-still staring at me as if I were some kind of threat.

"Not until I know my future." I yank my hand from Jean's again-this time getting closer to Jonaus-my weapon within reach. "Tell me gypsy or I'll have the lot of you killed."

Joanus glaces back to Miorakin, eyes widening-the hand holding the candle trembling. "Please we wish for no trouble lord Arthur."

"Threats will get you nothing." Miorakin stepped down from the wagon to take her place beside Joanus' side.

I move my wet hair out of my face-ignoring the stinging cold and wind whipping about as the rain pours down even harder. "He needs to know. "

I look back to Jean, who's now moved closer. Something about how he's looking. Dangerous-an aura of something more. Joanus and Miorakin both step back-eyes filled with fear and on Jean. For some reason there was something that obviously these ladies were scared of about Jean. At the time I wasn't sure what it was-only that it terrified them.

Joanus sighs, small eyebrows drawing up. "We've always existed in peace with you Jean. You must know the answers you are seeking are not pleasant ones."

Jean pulls me to him, wrapping his arms around me protectively. "So be it-this is what Gabriel wants. I don't want to have unleash what I've spent my whole life hiding but if it has to come down to that then I will-I will for Gabriel."

I watched as the two women exchanged looks of hesitation then finally Joanus bows her head and takes my hand in hers just like before, shutting her eyes. She held it close, drawing it up to her face-brushing her lips across the back. "A death so young-a mortal death. Cold-so cold, with the skin of granite. Child of the night-strolling endlessly through time-taking the lives of others. Blood-so much blood. Such strength-power-the love of many. Not the human you once were-beyond that to something greater. This life gone-gone with all those in it ..."

Listening to all that she said was not what I wanted suddenly. My future-I would die young. I was scared. Scared to lose my mother, Catherine, Jean and even William. All the rest was nothing more than confusing details. I was to die early-my life cut short by something. I became scared. I didn't want to die. I began to think why me. Why?

I grabbed the dagger from it's sheath at my hip and charged at her-not really sure what it was that I planned to do. Luckily Jean got a hold of me again, taking the dagger from me. Tears were already spilling from my eyes and I felt as if I had gone mad. "I don't want to die!"

Joanus and Miorakin moved back-holding each other in fear that I may somehow get to them. Jean tried to soothe me but I continued to wail. "I don't want to die! I don't want to die God!"

My screaming had woken up much of the other gypsies-all coming out of their tents to stare at me in fear. Did they know what I was to be condemned? Surely not but they most likely had some sort of idea. An idea of the evil that I was going to be. Of course I believed her-it was in her eyes. The truth of her words. I always trusted the eyes-these were the gates to a person's soul. It's all in the eyes. I would die.

Jean scooped me up into his arms as if I were a baby, covering me with his cloak while I continue to thrash and scream. He holds me close-attention on Joanus. She meets his gaze, clutching her great-grandmother's hand and paying me no mind. "Nothing will change his fate Jean-not even you. They will have him. The reasons are unknown by me but they're coming Jean-this is beyond my control."

Nothing else is said after that. No more needs to be said. The only sounds are the pouring rain and that of my screaming. It's only when we got back to the castle that I quieted down. The knowledge of my fate still too shocking. That night I made Jean promise me-promise that no matter what he would protect me, be there for me. With no hesitation he promised. I didn't want to die. But that ... was not something that could be helped.

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A year later, William married the King Edward's niece Mary. The wedding had been delayed due to William having to go to war beside my father. Him and his new bride were staying at the castle till theirs was finished being built. Mary was a traditional woman, about the age of twenty-five, rather a bit old for my brother-who was twenty at the time. But her beauty made up for that. Long light red hair, blue-green eyes, a creamy pale complexion, long eyelashes, curvaceous body, full lips and small brownish freckles dotted her nose and cheeks. But it was her servant who mainly got my attention. Annette Kratz, a timid and shy girl of twelve. Annette with her large light blue eyes, slender body, long dirty blond hair, tan complexion had me completely in love. So Jean wasn't my first love-as I'm sure he hoped. The servant girl was just two years younger than me had me completely captivated. She actually made me forget about the sad future I would obviously have.

During her first months at the castle she mainly stayed by Mary's side, so I never really talked to her. Besides Annette there was another reason to be happy now. William got me out of the marriage that I would've had to be in. Wasn't like it mattered since the issue with my unpredictable time of my death. Some small hope. But there were other problems going on. All around England, mysterious murders were happening. King Edward had described them to be gruesome-looked like only an animal had to have committed them. This had everyone in the castle on edge. My main fear was that this could be the work of those that Joanus spoke of. She had only said 'they'. I didn't know who they were, only that they were going to kill me. They would end my life.

This would've really freaked me out if I wasn't kept so busy with my studies. But everyday it seem my mother was growing increasingly worried about me. Had to keep busy-just thinking about who they could be would drive me mad and on the verge of screaming to live like before.

It had been only three months of Mary and Annette being at the castle-lately things were beginning to get lonely. Even though Jean belonged to me, my father would often take him along when he went to the King's court. When Jean was with me, I would seize any opportunity to be with him. Guess it was only a matter of time before things started to really come to light.

Once again I had been punished by my father-this time for no apparent reason other than he was drunk. No being thrown into the dungeon, just beaten. Beaten so badly that it took me two days to stop coughing up blood. He hated me. No reason-only that I wasn't good enough for him. Not fit to be his son.

"It's not you Gabriel, nothing is your fault." Jean reassures, scrubbing my back.

Seemed like Jean was always having to comfort me. Seemed like my father beat me more and more. These things could not be helped. "He hates me."

Jean sighs, resting his head on top of my own, scrubbing slowly. "Gabriel you are special, he just can't see that-doesn't want to see it. He's too involved with himself."

I lean back against the basin, the steaming water tingling my bruises. It was the night after the violent episode with my father. Getting ready for bed seemed like a way better choice than going down to join everyone for dinner. Now that William was married off-father would try again with me. The sooner the better he believed. The beatings will increase if he doesn't get any suitable girl for me. I just knew that.

"Gabriel ... if there ... um ... was something that I didn't know about you, would you ... tell me?"

I look back, meeting his ebony eyes-matching the intense gaze. He knew everything about, maybe not how much I was in love with Annette or that lately I had been thinking of ways that I could die. But if he wanted to know about these things I would tell. There was something that Jean had been keeping though-this wasn't about me. He wanted to share something-confide his secrets within me. What could he be hiding?"

He didn't wait for any answer I might give-instead got back to talking. "Gabriel there are some things in this world that cannot be explained. Despite all these things I am your friend-no matter what. I am here to protect you."

The only thing I do is nod-not sure what he was trying to tell me or why he bought it up. "Remember sometimes things can be explained but not believed-often driving some insane. But I want you to know the secrets that I possess, I don't want to keep anything from you Gabriel."

I turn all the way around to face Jean, sitting up on my knees in the basin. His face gets closer to mine-clearly getting the wrong impression. I took his face in my hands-stopping what he was trying to do. "What are you trying to say Jean? What's with all this?"

He let out a long sigh before moving back and caressing my chin. "If I tell you-this must stay between us."

"As you wish Jean-this stays with us." I agreed, never looking away from his eyes but feeling slightly scared. I thought that this could not be good-whatever he was about to say just didn't sound good at all.

"I know who they are." He started. "The ones that will come for you are known as Blood Suckers-Vampires. They walk this world consuming human life, cold blood thirsty creatures that look mortal but are far from it."

"Vampires." I repeat, feeling a chill run down my spine. "That's nothing more ... than myths."

He shakes his head, hooking his arms with mine and standing-pulling me up with him in the process. "They exist and so do other ... um ... supernatural creatures. I know this just sounds crazy but it's ... true. You have to believe this if I am to try and help you against th-"

"I believe you Jean." I said with too much panic in my voice, staring into his eyes. There was no lie in them and as strange and unbelievable as this whole thing was it was happening. The word Vampire was one I mainly heard the servants or peasants use. Nothing more than folklore-myths. Almost like when someones accused of being a witch, people get scared and believe it, thus making up stories. Vampires and all things like them weren't supposed to exist-that's what William use to tell me when we were kids-said that they were condemned by God.

Jean dried me off quickly then got to dressing me in a fresh purple tunic and leggings. "Jean why are they coming for me? What did I do wrong?"

Tears were beginning to roll down my cheeks and all I could do was tremble and keep asking questions. "Why Jean? Why does all the bad happen to me?" I started to shake violently, crying harder. "Why?"

Jean grabs hold of my shoulders, stopping my hysterics. "Calm down Gabriel, I'm here so nothing will happen to you."

I clinged onto Jean desperately, searching his face and only seeing him strangely at ease. He wasn't panicking like me-he was confident in this protecting me. He stroked my hair, kissing my temples. "There's more Gabriel-a lot more."

He hugs me to him, whatever he was about to say was obviously serious. I suddenly didn't want to know. The vampire news was more than I cared to stand-what he's to say next could only mean another problem.

"I'm not ... exactly ... mortal myself."

There it was. Jean. My Jean was not what I thought him to be. This is when I believe it was all too much for me to handle. Jean not human. He couldn't be a ... vampire. He's not cold and he doesn't sleep in a coffin. No. Jean was something else.

"I'm ... a-"

"No, Jean." I declare, holding onto him tighter. "I don't want to know what you are. You're Jean-my friend-comrade. It doesn't ... matter what you are."

Nothing was going to cause me to be afraid of Jean-not him. He's more than like a friend-he's like family. Whether he's part of this crazy supernatural stuff or not it doesn't matter. Whatever he is doesn't change who he is to me-who he's been for a long time.

"Please Gabriel, try to understand that I need to reveal th-"

I struggle away-not about to hear a word of this. Not wanting to hear anymore. Jean wasn't some scary creature-he was Jean, someone that was so close to me-slept in the same bed as me at times-loved me. "No no no Jean!"

He carries me to the bed where he pins me down with relative ease-while I still thrash about repeating no.

"Gabriel stop!" He rests his head on my chest, hands still holding down my own. He was crying. Crying just like on that long ago night-the night he confessed his love for me. Why did I always seem to make Jean sad. He made me happy yet I was always the one that seemed to make him dwell on lament matters. But I didn't want Jean to change in my eyes-I wanted things to remain as they were. Jean be with me forever without all this talk. But that was a futile-trying to block out unpleasant things just wasn't right. I knew better than that. Harmony comes to an end eventually.

"I'm not like you Gabriel-not worthy of you. I am ... a Lycanthrop. What ... I am was ... not by choice-I ... never chose this." He had stopped crying, head up now and looking at me with so much fascination that I thought he expected me to say something to this-like he was waiting for my reaction. But that was it. I didn't know what to do or what to say. I knew what Lycanthrops were-another mere tale from the servants. Can't exactly say I wasn't the least bit scared of Jean but that fear was suddenly subsided. All I had to do was look at him. Jean-he wouldn't hurt me-not now, not ever. He was my friend-a friend that just wanted me to accept him.

Something in me bravely moved closer to him and when his hold on my arms was no more, I quickly pulled him to me in a tight hug, kissing his cheeks. "It ... doesn't .... matter Jean, not to me."

He presses foreheads with me, smiling a little at being accepted. This must have bothered him for quite some time. My view of him mattered-that's how much he loved and cared about me. I was the only one he trusted-maybe even his first love. For this one moment there was just us. The disappointment of a son and the werewolf that was in love with him. Quite the pair we made. If only it would've stayed like that. If only ....

The months after that for me consisted of being around Jean. He wouldn't want me from his side anyway. Things were just hard-the vampire situation seemed to get to me everyday. Not easy to ignore this growing threat-the murders around only increasing. King Edward had advised for people to be off the streets by sunset. Eventually my mind left from the unpleasantness of what was going on and my impending doom. This was because of Annette. We became fast friends-didn't matter if she was a servant at all. She too didn't call me by title-I demanded her not to. She was my friend, my first love. I spent almost every hour of the day with her when I could since Jean was gone from the castle often. My father wanted to marry Jean off and get the profit of that. Jean, after all was quite sought after within the King's Court. No surprise there. Don't think he wanted to get married-still in love with me.

I hated that me spending time with Annette angered Jean but when I was alone those same overwhelming fears would take over. I didn't want to die-as worthless as I was viewed by my father death just wasn't what I wanted. Back when I was eight I use to wish I was dead but not anymore, especially getting ripped to shreds. Without Jean it seemed I was scared all the time but as soon as he was with me-holding me and reassuring me that everything was going to be alright I was calm. Maybe I used Jean but I couldn't help it. Scared, defenseless Gabriel who sometimes cried himself to sleep. Pathetic I know. I vowed almost every day that I would not cling to Jean-rely on him for protection like some helpless child.

Annette was my companion when Jean was gone. She was quite a unique girl. For her age she knew a lot, including more myths than I knew. Not like the myths mattered. To me, anything could real. But I never told her that, just enjoyed her company. I loved her. Everything about her made my body respond. Her smile, her lips, her eyes, her scent-she was the girl for me. Status didn't matter, I wanted to marry her-give her the things she never had. Cherish her. The lake near the forest was our favorite place to go-Jean's was the forest. That was where he showed me his other form. Not scary at all-if you like giant wolfs with spooky yellow eyes that glowed at night. He couldn't talk in the other form but he communicated in other ways, barks, howls and other gestures. We would sometimes go for rides through the forest at night when he was in that form-which was pretty much me sitting on his back. It was fun-another thing that got me from thinking about vampires. I became confident-I had Jean.

My father was amused with my frequent time with Annette. He thought it was weird that I was being friendly with a servant and insisted on taking me to the King's Court, in hopes of marrying me off. William-too was finally being bothered by father. Pressuring him to get to work on producing a heir. So I rarely saw my brother-either at war or with Mary. Sometimes to get away from my father's demands I would travel with my mother and Catherine. Hard to be away from Annette but I would always buy her something from where we went. Fancy tailor made dresses, bakery sweets, jewelry, books, flowers and any other treasures I thought I could court her with. She was special to me after all. If I pleaded she would accept the gifts-which happened only if it were some kind of book.

When I had got back from a trip to Italy, I bought back a beautiful diamond and ruby choker from Florence then in Rome I got her a painting of the city. When I presented her with the gifts it was the usual response.

"Oh Gabriel, they're ... beautiful." I watched her hold up the choker in her small hands then clear her throat. "But I ... can't accept ... them."

She puts the choker back in the black velvet rectangular box and looks up at me, cheeks stained with a light blush. I sit down near where she's standing on the grass and stare out at the lake, deciding I'd let her off the hook. Usually I'd plead with her right now, but just seeing her adorable face blushing will be reward.

"You don't have to take the gifts this time."

"Thank you anyway Gabriel." She giggled, then knelt down beside me. "Was it fun in Italy?"

I nod, turning to look at her. "It was great-maybe should've bought you back a book. The libraries there have so much interesting books that it was hard to just read one."

"Well, without you here I've mainly been entertaining Lady Catherine." She insists on calling my family by title. Can't sotp her from that.

We're both suddenly quiet. I tilted my head up and gazed up at the stars-thinking. "Annette, what do you think of death?"

She picked a nearby daisy from the ground and held it before letting the flower get carried away by the wind. "Death? Why would you be thinking of such a thing?"

"Well ... death is a fascinating subject to me." I reply, drawing my knees to my chest.

"Death just happens. Nobody really knows when and nobody really knows why."

"Do you think there's an after life?" I asked this one out of mere curiosity, the other questions had to do with myths about death I had heard in Italy and maybe my own if Jean couldn't protect me.

Annette had never shy-ed away from any question I ever asked her-no matter how weird it was. Another factor that drew me to her. "Gabriel is there a reason for these questions?"

I watched the wind blow her hair a bit into her face and couldn't help but lean closer to her to the point where her eyelashes brushed gently against my cheek and that's when we locked eyes. Something about those light blue orbes was captivating, made me feel content, loved. Seconds later my lips were on hers, as if I had no control over them. They moved on their own, wanting to explore hers my only concern. This was something I had longed to do with her. My hands were cupping her face while her body pressed more to mine. The feel of her delicate bosoms under the thin gown could only be described as delicious. I kissed her hungrily, letting my hands drop down to wrap around her small waist.

My thoughts came back when I heard the unmistakable low growl of an animal from the forest. Opening my eyes, I spotted a maroon colored wolf peaking out from a thicket of trees, glowing yellow eyes seeming as if they were glaring. In an instant the wolf was gone. I lept up from Annette and stared out more into the thick forest. What I saw was no ordinary wolf of course.

Annette cleared her throat, getting my attention. "Gabriel, what's wrong?" She asked in a small voice that was slightly shaky.

Without giving her an answer I sprinted back to the castle, half angry-the other half a bit embarrassed. Wasn't the first time I had seen that wolf, it was no threat to me at all. I went up to my bedchamber, dodging all the servants. I found the chamber strangely empty, which was a surprise. I closed my door and went more into the room, gazing around at everything. That's when I heard a howl, which seemed to be getting closer. In an instant the wolf I spotted in the forest had came in through the window. I watched it shake and spasm, transforming back into human-not the least bit scared. Jean shook the excess fur off his sweaty body and smoothed back his hair. This wasn't the first time I had seen him morph-seen it dozen of times. Not much of a shocker now. It's the morphing to wolf that looks painful to me.

He stares at me for awhile before speaking. "Gabriel, why would you kiss Annette?"

His tone sounds a little sad. I sat down on the bed, forgetting my the anger-more embarrassed that he had seen.

"Jean I can't really say anything but how great it was." I sigh, feeling my face heat up. "She's just so beautiful, so angelic."

He gazed at me for awhile, then sighed as well. "Are you in love with her?"

I nodded, wishing I wasn't so happy about it since it obviously has Jean upset. I watch him knell down in front of me and lay his head down on my legs. "Why don't you love me the way I love you Gabriel?"

"You don't need me to love you that way Jean." I answer solemnly, hating to make him upset. I run my fingers through his silky hair, staring up at the ceiling. "So many women throw themselves at you Jean, be with one of them and be happy."

He let me continue stroking his hair for what seemed like hours before standing up and sitting next to me on the bed. I'm pulled into his arms moments later, Jean caressing my back. "Love is love Gabriel. It will come and go but your heart will never forget the feeling of that love. You'll want to die for this person, never want to leave their side. Love has no rule, laws, standards-only the power to grow. It's a hard emotion to shake, hard to cope with. Dangerous."

After saying this he placed a small kiss to the side of my mouth, resting on me again. I then realized that Jean was still exposed. I tried to get up but he kept me in his arms. "You'll freeze" I started saying, not wanting him to get sick.

"I am no human Gabriel. I do not feel the cold, it's always hot to me." He lets me go then, holding onto my hands instead. "This country isn't safe. While you were gone I heard news of others like me invading. Miorakin had a vision. In her vision, England was overrun with Immortals, Lycans first then the others will come."

Once again my fear returned. Jean saw this and quickly gave my cheeks kisses. "Do not worry my dear Gabriel, I shall keep protecting you with my life."

He kissed my lips then and mustered up a smile to reassure me that things would be fine. This made me feel a little safe but it couldn't make my heart stop beating so fast. Things were strange enough with a werewolf loving me but the tragic nightmare that awaited me in the future would be the loss of everything I held dear.

That nightmare started with me becoming a man. After that night I kissed Annette, I felt different. Something in me wanted more. A lot more. Jean unfortunately was edgy whenever I was around Annette-doing little to hide his jealousy. On the day he turned nine-teen, Jean, with my permission married the wealthy Countess, Mina Vont and he was set to live at her castle all the way in Transylvania. He got my scent before he left-said his nose was strong that he pick up where I was and whether or not if I was in danger.

"Your scent changes you see." He said, running a hand through his hair.

I smelled myself out of curiosity. Smelled like my bath oils-don't know how that carries all the way to Transylvania. "So you can protect me all the out there?"

He nodded, wiping his palms on his tunic. "Yes I will be Gabriel. It would be better if I weren't leaving at all."

"You cant blame me-the Countess has been begging me for you for years." That part was true but it was also to get him away-I didn't want him to feel jealous any more. Being around me wasn't helping obviously.

That had months ago. Jean's leaving was not pleasant for me but it was time I stopped being selfish and let him live his life-get over me. It was hard, after all he was the closest friend I had. It was good that I had Annette, my beloved Annette.

The murders around England increased just like Jean had told me they would. Strangely around our castle everything was fine. I was just relieved by that fact. When Fall came, Mary gave birth to twin girls, both took after William, light blue eyes, curly blond locks and dimpled cheeks. The whole castle was talking about how adorable the babies were. Aristocrats came for and wide to offer their gifts to William and Mary for the babies. Madeline and Caroline were more beautiful than Catherine and they certainly were loved by father more. I've never seen the man shower so much attention on the twins. I was completely ignored, able to spend all my time with Annette, considering Mary loved being with her daughters. My mother still had the need to overprotect me, but she was easy to evade.

Ever-since Annette and I had kissed that night it seemed that's what we did any time we were together. But that all changed one afternoon, while the two us were playing near this hidden meadow of flowers. It use to be where my mother came all the time but then she just started mainly staying in her chamber. It's another one of my places to go now, especially since Annette likes to pick flowers.

Annette had finally wore one of the gowns I had given her. A blue dress of fine silk, satin and velvet, with the buttons of precious pearls. She even wore filly ribbons in her hair and the sapphire slippers on her feet. Everything she wore was bought by me, knew when I bought them that they would complement her perfectly. I watched her spin around, arms loaded with flowers that she had picked. she places a kiss on my cheek throwing her armful of flowers up in the air.

"Let us dance my beloved." She sang, twirling about.

I laughed to this and proceeded to dance with her in our own little silly way. Our lips met then, the two of us kissing so hungrily that we stumbled on one another and ended up falling to the ground. The kiss becoming more passionate as I pin her arms up. I break the kiss to gaze at her from head to toe. I wanted her so much that I could not control myself.

"Gabriel."

I escaped my trance to gaze back to her face.

"What's the matter, Annette?"

Her small thin brows knitted close together and she frowned. "I don't think we should be ... doing this."

I stroked her neck and grinned. "Doing what Annette?"

Her face goes a deep red and she looks around. I undid each delicate pearl button, exposing the fine walebone under the dress. Her body tensed under mine and she started trembling. Lost in my own blissfulness and drove with curiosity I tore open the whalebone then ripped through the other gowns till finally I reached her tender pale flesh. First time I saw a girl naked. Annette was everything I could ever imagine, everything so delicate. I took each of the light pink nipples into my mouth, suckling each one with careful precision. I didn't really know what I was doing, just wanting to taste.

It had an effect on her body. She whithered under me, moaning softly, eyes half open. I stopped, ignoring her little whimper at the loss. I continue exploring her-going lower. I dipped two of my fingers into my new found interest, gazing up at at Annette after doing so. Her beautiful mouth parted and her her body arched. I watched her pant, the long blond locks partially covering one side of her flushed face. Quite a sight for me. I began to caress her there, slowly at first but then picked up the pace. Her moans became louder, legs trembling. I wanted her. Knew very well what I wanted to do.

I removed my fingers from her, my body aching with desire. So much desire. I quickly shed my clothes, not caring that it was the middle of the day and that if anyone were in my chamber you'd get a clear view of what we were about to do. None of that mattered, I loved Annette and I planed to make her mine. Joining her back on the ground, I got between her parted legs, balancing myself on my arms above her. She leaned up, scanning my face.

"I love you Gabriel."

That was the first time I heard her tell me this. Caught me off guard really but I immediately kissed her and concentrated on the matter at hand. I drew carefully into her, the tight entrance rather resistive. I went deeper, Annette's hands crisscrossed at my back. I felt her nails scrape my flesh, bucking from the intrusion. I began thrusting, her trembling legs wrapped around my waist as I continued. A surge of heat ran through my body from my groin, every nerve in me felt like electrified. Abandoning all the things I've regretted and my fears. There was only her. I moved faster and faster, losing myself entirely to this as Annette moaned and panted, gripping me tighter. The two of us moving in sync-as one.

After I had gave forth inside of her we had laid together-still naked and glowing from what we had just done. She sat up after catching her breath and began pulling the remainder of her dress back on. I followed sut and started pulling my clothes on.

"Oh I'm so sorry." She gasped.

I looked back at her confused then noticed that she was staring at my back-obviously she had been scratching. If she hadn't mentioned it I wouldn't have even payed much mind to the slight stinging from the cuts. Too happy to care.

"That's fine Annette, it's not like they hurt." I gave her a small smile, while slipping on the leggings.

She crawled to me and fixed my hair, her own a mess as well. "You're so red Gabriel."

I laughed to her comment and grinned, getting to my feet. "You're red too Annette."

I help her up, the two of us giggling and kissing our way back to the castle. We stop once we get to the front, my eyes landing on this fancy gold carriage up near the entrance. The coat of arms matches that of the Countess Vont, but she never came to England.

"See you ... perhaps tomorrow." Annette said slowly, letting go of my hand.

I nod, watching her head into the castle then get back to looking at the carriage. I head to my bedchamber then-not really caring about my disarray of my clothes. Sure enough in my chamber is Jean, looking out my window, hands behind him. He looks different somehow. Dressed in a embroidered robe of blue velvet, hair braided neatly back. I wasn't clear on just how long he was in my room or if he had seen what Annette and I had been doing.

He turns around, smiling and opening his arms out to me. "Gabriel, my has time passed."

I go to him, feeling old memories as he embraces me, giving my forehead a kiss. "What are you doing here?"

He laughs a little then looks me over. "Relax, didn't come bringing bad news. My have you gotten tall and it seems this never stops growing. He lightly touches a strand of my hair.

It was true I guess. It seemed I was growing after all. I came to Jean's shoulder, which was good progress for me and as for the hair it was past my waist. My father wanted to cut it but with the twins I was just something that he didn't really care much about. Plus a lot of the women liked my hair so he'd rather put up with the long hair than lose a potential wealthy woman.

I sit down on the bed, Jean joining-looking me over again and raising his brows. "What?"

His smile draws into a thin line, face hardening. "It's nothing ... I guess. You look rather different."

I wasn't sure if he could smell Annette's scent on me or something but if he did I wasn't about to admit to it. My business was mine, not Jean's. I was about to ask what news did he get on the whole Immortals invading when a knock suddenly came to the door.

We exchange looks. "Enter." I commanded, folding my arms across my chest.

In walks Mary, which was a rare sight. Never has she ever come to my room or even said anything to me. I was just her husband's little brother, not only that but we had nothing to discuss with each other.

"Sorry to disturb you my Lord." She bowed curtly.

I nodded, hating that she called me by title. "No need to apologize, you're welcome to my room."

She smiled, clasping her hands together. "Lord William and Midius ask for thee presence in the common room."

Groaning I stood up. "Did they tell you why?"

She shook her head and quietly took her leave. Jean grabbed my arm after she had left standing in front of me.

"Gabriel I shall be here when you get back." He released my arm arm and I strolled out the room, making my way slowly to the common room. The door to the chamber was slightly open so I walked in. My father was sat in this huge leather chair, William in the opposite one, the two of them deeply in conversation. Unnoticed I stood in the corner of the room listening to what they said.

"These deaths are ruining the economy. England is growing weak, think how vulnerable we are." My father said through clenched teeth.

William pounded his fist on a nearby table, sounding just as angry as father. "The way the murders are is just as bad as how they were done. Countess Vont has sent Jean back I hear, said she wanted to see if he could be of some assistance to us."

My father grinned slightly, smoothing down his curly hair. "Well he is pretty good when it comes to handling financial affairs. But of course they'll will be other issues at hand."

"The murders aren't the only thing, King Edward informed me yesterday that tension's rising in Russia. War's not yet came up but it's only a matter of time before it does."

They talk more about this for thirty long minutes then finally I'm noticed. "Gabriel!" Barked my father in my direction.

I made sure not to show fear or anything that might encourage my father to start picking on me. "Yes father?"

"You shall start training as a knight immediately, your brother will be your instructor, considering he is the best."

I look over at William as he stood and came over to where I was. He grinned and clamped a large hand on my shoulder. "We'll train come sunrise to sunset. Mother agreed to cancel you French lessons and rest of your studies."

The news struck me hard. When could I spend time with Annette? Why had mother agreed to such things. Anger swelled over the brief happiness I had had before coming into the room.

"Gabriel!" My father barked loudly. "That will be all!"

I turned on my heel and headed to my mother's chamber. She never sent me away when I came unannounced, which most of my visits were. Unannounced. She loved when I came to see her, cheered her up. But this time I wasn't there to be nice or be reasonable. She had no right in doing what she did. Anything to please my father.

I barged through the double doors rudely, set on telling her exactly what my problem was. My mother was nestled in her large velvet lounge chair, a thick book on her lap. She looked up from the closed book, perking up upon seeing me.

"My precious, what brings you to see me?" Her voice always had a soothing effect on me, so I tried not to be drawn to her.

Staring as coldly as I could into her soft olive green eyes, wishing as that moment that we weren't the same height. We strangely had a lot alike characteristic. Straight long black hair, the long eyelashes, our light complexion. I always thought she was beautiful-more beauty than a goddess.

Her small oval face became marked with worry. "Is something wrong Gabriel?" She asked concerned.

I snatched the book from her lap and threw it across the room-mad by how calm she was. "Why did you agree to cancel all my lessons, I don't want to be trained as a knight."

She smiled and tried to hold my hand but I moved back. "Answer me mother!"

"Gabriel, it was what your father demanded of me." She stood to her feet and sighed. "I thought you hated your French lessons, it's a wonder you even learned to speak Italian."

I watched her nervously pull at the sting of pearls on her lovely throat. "This is just another chance for him to see me fail at something and you know it!"

She shook her head. "No, he just wanted you and William to spend some time together. No harm in that."

I stomped my foot in anger. "I don't want to be like William or spend time with him. I am me!"

She quickly seized the opportunity to wrap her arms around me, holding me close. "I know that, probably better than anyone. Show him that. Show your father what I already know, my precious."

Something about her words and the soothing caress of her hand stroking my hair made me relax in her arms. I loved my mother of course. She could make me do anything. I use to wonder how such a beautiful, caring woman could marry a man like my father. The heartless, greedy, who would most likely kill me than to have me take over his place as Earl if he could. No surprise there. I had my mother though and she had the purest heart out there. My mother was where I had learned to accept my flaws. Accept them and know that they made me who I was. I made a promise that day to release my father's hold over my mother. Save her from the crazy, power-driven man she had to call her husband.