Blood and Love - 19. Chapter 19

Chapter 19

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Excerpts from the journal of Daniel Damien….

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1855, 5^th January.

Today has marked the end of the bond closest to my heart. Arthur has gone. The promises of a lifetime of bliss and love have gone with him. I have nothing left to cherish. My life has come to a standstill. The entire Damien estate around me is bustling with activity: rigorous cleaning and preparations. A serene chaotic atmosphere is pervasive in the mansion. I enquired and was informed by our bubbling butler that my father’s closest friend of years Mr. Askern and his son Alexander are coming to stay with us. While the butler was providing me with the information, I heard my father’s commanding voice from the top of the spiral marble staircase.

 

“Daniel, I would like to talk to you in my study. Now.”

 

I looked up at the frame of the decisive man, his hand clutching his sturdy walking stick, standing against a large portrait of the smiling visages of my brother, my father and me. I noticed the differences between the art and the muse. The thick bushy eyebrows and moustache set on a hard, lined and impassive face. While the art showed a smiling benevolent father, the muse was a decisive, firm, strict and dominating authoritarian. I had no inclination to speak with anyone, let alone him. However, I was in no mood to direct another argument and decided to do as directed.

 

The study was a huge room with shelves of books, maps and artifacts, some family heirlooms while others mere decorations. The ensemble boasted of generations of royal education, the Damien lineage and bloodline. My father was sitting in the ornate chair behind his huge ebony desk covered with papers, few books, quills, ink et al. Perhaps, matters regarding the city’s governance and development. Being the Mayor, my father exhibited the grandeur of the position and the associated responsibilities.

 

“Yes father. You wished to speak with me.”

 

He looked at me with his piercing grey eyes from below the bushy eyebrows. After analyzing me for a minute, he spoke.

 

“How are you?”

 

I bit back the retort and answered in a restrained tone. “Let us not discuss my well- being father. I do not wish to talk about …that.”

He narrowed his eyes but spoke softly. “You know whatever I did was for your good. Your association with that young man was most unnatural and unacceptable. The prestige of the estate, the family and the honor of our lineage was at stake.”

 

“For my good! Unnatural and unacceptable! I’m sorry father but you were, you are and will always be incapable of understanding your children. After mother’s death, you may have given us wealth, name, education but the one thing, the most important one: love; Father, you failed to provide us!” I hissed in frenzy.

 

“Daniel Damien! That’s enough!” He bellowed. I could see anger building in his shivering frame and hurt pride in his eyes. “I will not tolerate an argument from my sons. Behave and be in control of your tongue! You will not indulge in your unnatural whims till I breathe. Arthur Ray was a abomination and you will forget him! You will do as I say!”

 

I looked at him in sheer anger but could not utter another argument. I couldn’t argue any further. Seeing me quiet he continued.

 

“My friend Askern is coming tomorrow. His son Alexander will accompany him. Remember Daniel, I have known Askern since my Wittenberg university and militia days and I shall not tolerate any misdemeanor. Moreover, Alexander is nineteen now and wishes to enroll in the University. You have been an eminent scholar there and with your twenty-first birthday next week, you will have earned your degree. Askern expects you to help Alexander with the University enrollment procedure. And I have promised that you will. Is that understood?”

 

I looked straight into his eyes. I had a lot to say. I wanted to refuse. I wanted to do anything to thwart the man.

 

“Yes.”

 

“Then we are settled. You may leave.” He said and returned to his documents.

 

I turned and walked out to the roof. As I stood looking into the distant orange horizon and the vast landscape of slowly darkening greenery, a tear made its way down my cheek.

 

“Was I going to suffer forever?”

 

1885, 6^th January.

The Askerns arrived today. A certain feeling has emanated in my being. I can’t make sense of it. The more I try to fathom the depths of this alien feeling, the more elusive it seems to comprehension. My existence appears to be a paradox. Perhaps, I’ll narrate the entire episode in this journal. Maybe then I shall receive some clarity about this issue.

 

We stood at the ornate, majestic oak door waiting for the Askerns. My father stood leaning on his stick looking into the distance. I stood near the entrance away from him. Evan was not back from the trip to a relative. The other officials and servants stood according to the decrees and status. As the receiving party stood patiently I started taking in the weather. It was a gloomy day. The January sun was veiled by slightly dark clouds promising rain. The wind had gathered momentum and was cool, slightly strong. The clouds cast their shadows on the earth below and the ambiance was that of a dusk scene at noon. Birds were flying towards their nests perhaps; the rain was to come soon. The scent in the air indicated that the clouds had landed somewhere.

 

Suddenly, the call of the watchman brought me back to my company and I saw the iron gates being thrown open to let in a carriage drawn by two handsome white horses of superior breed. The black but lavish carriage traversed the path leading up to the house and halted in front of us. The valet got off the ride and handsomely, with the grace of a noble’s official, opened the carriage entrance. An old man in his sixties, clad in a traveling coat on top of a handsome suit, with a stick and an eye-glass, got out. With a beaming face he walked towards my father and the men embraced.

 

“It’s been so long, Damien.” Mr. Askern spoke in a cheery booming voice.

 

“Sure it has. There is a lot to talk about. Let’s proceed to the hall.” My father stopped for a second and looked around puzzled. “Where is Alexander?”

 

“Oh! Alexander was behind us. You are aware how charged a youth my son is. He decided to ride on his horse to the place. He will be here in another minute. Ah! There he is.” Askern pointed towards the gate from where the neighing sound had come.

 

I turned to look and time stopped.

 

A handsome black horse was galloping on the stony gravel path that led up to us. But the rider, Alexander was a rarity. Young man, the look of an eighteen year old, an innocent face with a cute grin rode the horse. The wind was flirting with his medium length blonde hair. His coat flying with the wind as the horse gained speed. He stopped at the door and dismounted. He wasn’t that tall. In fact he came up to my shoulders.

 

“Alexander! How are you, my boy?” My father cheered and embraced him.

 

“I’m fine, sir.” Alexander curtseyed and flashed a shy charming smile.

 

I found my self gaping at Alexander. His face was flushed with the ride and a rosy complexion arose on his pale cheeks. His lips were light pink and his eyes the color of the emerald green. They twinkled like a diamond and had an intensity that could seer through you. His physique was impressive. He appeared to be athletic.

 

“Meet Daniel. He will be helping you in the admissions.” My father suddenly said.

 

Alexander turned to look at me and flashed another charming smile and lifted his hand.

 

“Good morning, Mr. Damien.”

 

I hesitated for a second as his words got me out of my reverie. Slowly, I took his hand. It was very soft and cold. My hand was cold and sweaty. At the touch he politely frowned for a split second before smiling cheerfully.

 

“Call me Daniel.” That was all I managed.

 

“Only if you call me Alex.” Alexander answered softly and winked.

 

I simply shook my head and smiled confused.

 

“Let’s get going. It’s time for dinner. I’d suggest that you both get ready for the dinner. It’d have been a long journey.” My father announced and everyone entered the mansion.

 

Alex stopped and turned to look at me. There was something in his eyes that I couldn’t read. A soft smile on his face as if he was amusing himself on a private joke. With that he turned and entered.

 

I stood watching him go. I walked outside the portico and stood staring into the mansion. I could see Alex smiling. Laughing and talking to my father, acting a perfect gentleman. I could see my father being impressed. I felt a rush of warmth in me. But, this warmth had a tinge of fear to it. I was soaring into unnamed territory. I had no idea. Was this right?

 

Suddenly, the sky burst open and thunder and lightning filled the atmosphere. Rain made its way to the earth. I stood in the rain letting it wash over me. I needed answers. But for now tranquility was what I desired.

 

1885, 10^th January

 

Alex. The mere mentioning of the name sends shivers throughout my being. An unfamiliar nervousness coupled with ecstasy, a fluttery feeling in the heart and an immediate smile are the results of his name. I can only imagine how I look when he is actually present.

 

It’s been a few days yet I feel drawn towards him. His charm is magnetic. Whenever we sit for the meals or during the conversation sessions in my father’s study, I can’t stop myself from looking at him and losing track of time and space. But, the best feeling of bliss comes when I see him subtly looking at me and smiling softly. Often he winks at me while taking a sip of wine. Whenever we run into each other in the corridors, he smiles his charming smile while I stand with my hat in my hands, staring at him and smiling foolishly. Often he arms brushes mine while passing in the corridors and I can’t help getting shivers of anticipation running all over me.

 

Today, he spent the afternoon with me writing his applications for the university. We were seated in my room. While he sat at my table writing a letter, I sat across from him feigning to read a novel. Often I tried to sneak a glance at him. Heaven knows he was innocent and beautiful as he sat nibbling at the end of the quill, slightly frowning at the contents of his letter, thinking deeply. He then looked up and our eyes met. I hastily returned to my novel.

 

After a few minutes I heard his soft boyish voice addressed to me.

 

“What are you so engrossed in Daniel?”

 

I looked up aghast. Perhaps, the look on my face showed some mortification, for he instantly said.

 

“Did I disturb you? I’m sorry I had no idea you were busy.”

 

“Oh! No, not at all.” I immediately spoke. “I was just lost in these lines here. It took me time to take in what you were saying.” I tried to smile.

 

“What lines have enamored you so much? Can you read them to me?” He suggested and leaned on the table to listen.

 

I was trapped. I looked down at the random page that was open. What impressive lines would I talk about? My nervousness was getting paramount when I noticed a line which explained my predicament well. I cleared my throat and in an almost steady voice read.

 

“He stepped down, trying not to look long at her, as if she were the sun, yet he saw her, like the sun, even without looking.”

 

That was all I read. It hardly took a few seconds. I looked up at the reaction of my listener.

 

Alex was smiling softly. There was a twinkle in his dark brown eyes.

 

“You seem to be of a very romantic disposition.”

 

“Uhm…Well…I can’t really say.” I tried to formulate an answer. “It’s just that the lover’s predicament is so universal.”

 

“This predicament has been the bane of several unrequited relationships.” He said.

 

“True. But it’s not his fault. Love is an over-whelming emotion. We tend to transgress all boundaries, all social and even moral codes for love. Love is like the raging waves of the oceans. Once they cross the limits of the shore and enter lives, they wash everything away that comes in their path. Love over-whelms everything. Hence, this predicament is natural and justified. It prevents any crossing of lines.” I answered thinking about Arthur and my failed relationship and my swaying aside the feelings for Alex.

 

Alex got up and walked towards the window. He cast the curtains aside and threw them open. It was raining outside. Cold strong winds made their way into the chamber. He stood looking into the night without speaking. I felt uncertain about what to do so I sat still looking at his back. Finally, he spoke.

 

“Do you see the rain, Daniel? It’s another form of the waves you talk about; another form of water’s existence. You say love is like the raging waves. It encompasses and over-whelms. Love is also like this rain. It sooths, it washes away the mundane, the dust, the weariness of the summer sun. It liberates and rejuvenates. True love breathes life into you. You look at the destructive side only. Yes, love over-whelms. But that’s the nature of love. The thirst for love…..the pining for affection. Unrequited love gives a lot of pain. But, the worst is the regret of not confessing your love. It stays there forever like a thorn stuck in your heart.”

 

He turned to look at me. He was smiling. I sat transfixed, staring at him. I had been swept away by what he had said. Lightning and thunder appeared outside and I woke from my trance. I looked at him framed against the rain enveloped landscape. I don’t remember how it happened. I threw the book aside, crossed the distance between us in three strides and came face to face with him. He was a head shorter and looked up into my eyes. I looked into the deep twinkling brown eyes.

 

“Then, I don’t want to live with this regret forever. I love you, Alexander Askern.”

 

With that I took his face in my hand and kissed him on the lips. He reciprocated and our lips united in a passionate confession of love. The rain intensified, the winds blew harder and thunder filled the air. Love had prevailed.

 

1885, 17^th January

 

It has been the most exhilarating one week of my life. Alex and I are gradually coming to terms with this new found intimacy and platonic love between us. Ever since the first kiss and declaration of love, I have started feeling the familiar warmth and deep connection with Alex. I become uneasy if he’s away from me for more than an hour. The desire to hold him to me and never let go is gradually gaining strong hold in my heart. I feel a yearning for him whenever he’s away from me. Our physical intimacy is restricted to kissing and lying together. The consummation of our relationship may happen tomorrow night.

 

Evan is back and I immediately told him everything. Evan and I are very close and never keep secrets from each other. He was extremely happy for me and congratulated me while embracing me. I was at peace. As long as I had Evan with me, I felt the sense of right being there and my conscience wouldn’t prick. But, the moment of truth remained. My father was unaware of what was budding under his very roof. What he had banished in the form of Arthur from the door step had crept in and pervaded his entire realm as Alex.

 

1885, 19^th January.

 

What has happened? The sole question has been gnawing at the edges of my existence as I’m trying to comprehend the events that have happened in the last 36 hours. Where has everything suddenly come to? Everything that has happened since the eve of 18^th January is now a blur for me. I need a clear memory to envision my next step. I need to get rid of the frenzy. I’ll write down everything that has happened chronologically and decide my stratagem.

 

It was the town’s establishment day. The elite members of the society of Mysticus Domus were to sign the document of the town’s establishment and establish governance comprising of the elite families. The historic event was to happen during the grand gala ball in the evening. Our family was the oldest and most respected, hence the Damiens were hosting the event. Needless to say, my father had gone all out to ensure the grandeur of the historic event that would mark the prestige of our lineage.

 

The guests had gathered in the atrium of the Town Hall. The Town hall was at a convenient distance from the Damien estate and hence the management of the event had been easy. Amidst the huge gathering that had turned up for the event, the proletariats staid outside, waiting for the announcement. Inside were the rich and wealthy upper middle class and aristocrats. The inner circle of the governance, the core of the establishment comprised of the Damiens, the Rochesters, the Gellars, The Brontes, the Keats and the Oakwoods. The atrium was huge and could accommodate about five hundred people. Ornate, grand with beautiful and expensive portraits, velvet curtains and intricate designs, the Town hall was a symbol of power, position and the town’s history.

 

The evening commenced with the signing of the documents by the core members at a table in the centre of the hall, designed for the specific purpose. My father was made the Mayor while the legal authority went to the Brontes. Oakwoods took the economic departments while Keats the public concerns. The Gellars held the law and justice departments while Rochester became the deputy Mayor. Hereafter the Mayor declared the celebrations to commence.

 

An exquisite night of fireworks and carnivals! The entire town was rejoicing its new status as a developing place. Development was knocking at the doors. The elite celebrations moved from the atrium to the Damien’ estate. Wine, music and dance- a lavish feast and ball had been thrown for the rich. I stood with a glass of wine looking at the party. My father was busy socializing while Evan was dancing with the Ms, Rochester-s and the Ms. Bronte-s. As I turned towards the staircase I saw Alex and my heart stopped due to the breathtaking view. He looked exceptionally handsome, in fact gorgeous. The suit he wore fit his form perfectly and accentuated his physique. His hair was done neatly and he glowed. At that moment I just wanted to rush to him and make him mine.

 

He came down and socialized with the other families. After some time he walked towards me with a glass of champagne.

 

“You look amazing.” I whispered to him.

 

“And we’re still in this boring party.” He looked straight into my eyes and said. That was one of the most wonderful things about him. His straight-forwardness, his defiance, his unabashed manner gave me strength. I felt a new person around him. I felt I could take the world with him. I took his hand and we sneaked to my bedroom. Once in our lips met passionately. Passion and lust over-whelmed me as his scent and ardor filled my senses, switching all off except the need for contact, for pleasure, for love. Our clothes were gone in a jiffy and I was on top of him kissing every part of his beautiful body. Pinning him to the bed, rubbing myself against him, getting every contact I could to satiate the yearning in my skin to feel him, to touch him. Our love-making became intense and soon I was in him. Our bodies swayed rhythmically as he moaned in pleasure while I became passionate with the strong sensations of thrusting, of control, of making him moan. We climaxed in our arms. Sweaty, heavy breathing, glassy-eyed we kissed. Our relationship was consummated. I declared I would love him till the end of my days. Before he could reply the door opened and my father walked in.

 

In my lust, I had forgotten to lock it. One look at us and rage, shock scarred his face. He walked to the bed and pulled Alex away from me and onto the floor. I growled in anger and pushed him away. I went to help Alex and turned around to face the even shocked, disheveled and angry old man. My father’s aura and power had diminished with my act of defiance.

 

“What the hell is happening here? In my house, under the very roof of your lineage, you are defiling the family name and honor with this most unnatural, desecrating act of -”

 

“That’s enough!” I interrupted. “I’ve had enough of your worthless rants for honor and the pretence that enthralls every little happiness of my life. I defy every protocol, every belief, and every pretence of hollow honor that you talk about. I couldn’t do anything in Arthur’s case.”

 

At this moment Evan walked in and stood shocked on witnessing the scene. Alex took my hand and I continued.

 

“I love Alex. And whoever comes in between us. I swear to God, I’ll destroy him.”

 

My father looked at me in rage and opened his mouth to speak when a chilling scream of a woman filled the room. It had echoed throughout the mansion, having emanated from the hall. We rushed towards the scene. The guests were huddled at one side while the leading family heads and sons were looking upon something.

 

“What is the scream about? What happened?”

Rochester and Gellar cleared the way and our eyes met the most horrifying of sights. There lay on stretchers, four almost mangled blood-drained bodies of humans. My father froze and looked at the others with an incredulous and puzzled look. I turned to look at Alex. His face was impassive and showed no sign of emotion. He simply looked ahead at the remains.

 

“The police just walked in. One of the carnival processions in the east of town, towards the woods was attacked. This is a small example of the bloodshed that has happened there. No one knows what or who attacked. No witnesses or survivors. It looks like a savage animal attack.” Rochester spoke.

 

“We shall intensify the search. Look again. Any witness or survivors who saw what happened.” Ms. Bronte spoke to the officers.

 

“This is most unfortunate. I think we all should meet and discuss what security measures are needed.” Oakwood suggested.

 

“As well as get a high alert in town and ask people to stay safe and indoors. At least till the time the attack has been seen into.” Keats added.

 

“Yes. That would be best.” My father said and turned to the others. “The celebrations have to be ended. This is a matter of great chaos and obloquy. It has to be dealt with. The men of the families are requested to stay. We need to figure out what has happened and how should it be dealt with. Good night the rest.”

 

All dispersed except the men from the families of the town. The hall was arranged for a conference and chairs were set up according to hierarchies for people to sit. The hall was buzzing with whispers. Everyone present was speculating about the incident that had happened. Finally, my father got up and silence followed.

 

“We have a major issue at hand. Mutilated bodies of our kin have been found and there is no idea whatsoever of who is responsible for this horrendous crime. What do the police have to say about it? Sherriff Bronte?”

 

Mr. Bronte cleared his throat and spoke. “The mishap tonight has not been the first in town.” A collective gasp and rising whispers followed but were immediately silenced by my father’s look. Bronte continued, “There have been individual deaths in the past one month and we have been attributing them to that of animal attacks. But, an event of such magnitude has dismissed our conviction and we are forced to believe the hand of a more lethal agency.”

 

“Why was this hushed up?” A man spoke and others agreed.

 

“It wasn’t hushed. The event did not seem significant enough to raise panic and disturb the town’s peace.” Bronte answered in defense.

 

“What has happened is done. We need to make plans to deal with this threat.” Oakwood added.

 

“The citizens will work with the police and organize themselves into groups to patrol the streets and ensure the town’s security at nights. The council will have a meeting after this. The gathering is now dismissed.” My father announced.

 

As the people exited to perform their respective duties, the members of the council set forth to their meeting. Evan, Alex and I decided to leave, considering we were not the members of the order. However, father stopped me. He said that it was time for me to be a part of the council. I looked at Alex who showed signs of wanting to stay but I pressed his hand slightly and gave him a meaningful look. He left with Evan.

 

For the next hour the council debated over the possible causes of the event. The policies of governance and the collateral damage were discussed for the search of alternatives. It was at the moment when the council decided to end the meeting that our butler walked in and announced a visitor. The visitor had refused to send his name but had emphasized that the council was in dire need of his help regarding the happening casualties. He was allowed entry amidst whispers of curiosity and speculation. The stranger was dressed in black. A huge black overcoat covered his attire which showed a sturdy frame. His face was half-hidden by a hat. His almost white chin, blood red lips and slightly sharp canines were noticeable when he spoke. His presence had brought sheer silence and a certain chill in the room. His aura was intimidating and slightly hypnotizing. He spoke in a low but clear cold voice.

 

“My details are not important. And I do not have much time at hand. I have come to inform you of the dire danger that surrounds this town. Death and destruction is on its way. It will be a massacre you have never seen before. Every night will bring death. In the darkness lurk the shadows of the horrifying nightmares.”

 

“What do you mean?” My father spoke. Everyone present was looking intently at the stranger.

 

“Ever heard about the creatures of the night, the drinkers of blood, Mr. Damien?”

 

My father stood up angrily as everyone else. “What rubbish do you talk about? There is no such thing. Mere foolery! Fables!”

 

“Bodies ripped limb to limb, bloodless, and you call it the work of beasts? Perhaps, you’d like a demonstration.” With that he suddenly moved, grabbed a man from the other end of the table and buried his face in his neck. There was a splash of blood while the man screamed in agony. All watched in horror, transfixed. The man crumpled in a heap on the floor. The stranger removed his hat. Red eyes with black slits, protruding canines and blood dripping from his lips, shining against the alabaster skin.

 

“Don’t worry about that. He was a spy. Appointed by the Noctimonstra to report your moves.” The stranger answered casually as he wiped his face with a handkerchief.

 

In the next fifteen minutes the stranger informed us of the events happening around us. Apparently, there were two clans of vampires: the sun-walking Sanguinatus and the night-creatures Noctimonstra. The feud between the clans had been centuries old but now the Nocti had involved the humans in it. One of the witches of the ancient order had prophesized that in one of the bloodlines of the town would be born those that shall either end the Nocti or provide it unimaginable power. Hence, the Nocti were determined to destroy the town and capture the family. But, that couldn’t be allowed by the Sanguinatus. If the bloodline fell into the hands of the Nocti, the Sanguinatus would be doomed. It was a political pandemonium for them.

 

We listened, rapt in attention, horror and incredulity. My father stepped forth.

 

“We will work with you.”

 

*****

“What happened at the meeting? You have to tell me everything. You don’t look well.” Alex spoke earnestly as I entered the room. Evan came forward too. I looked into Alex’s eyes and saw frenzy. He really cared about me. My heart filled with warmth at the thought.

 

Over the next ten minutes I informed them of the vampire Oblonsky’s arrival and the information he had related.

 

“But, did he tell us which family is threatened?” Alex asked.

 

“Yes, he did. He says the Oracle has told them that the Gellar bloodline is the one. The Nocti are not aware yet. The Sanguinatus’ witches have performed charms that have prevented Nocti from deducing the identity of the bloodline. But, promise me Alex, you can’t tell this to anyone. This information is shared only by the top order of the Council.”

 

“I love you, Daniel. Why would I possibly betray you?”

 

I looked into his deep emerald green eyes and saw sincerity there. I kissed his softly. The time ahead was sure to test our love.

 

1885, 20^th January.

 

It is over. My life, my dreams, and my love, my family: it is all over. Alex is gone. And I… I am no longer who I was. Evan is lying next to me. He’s dead. But, he’ll wake up. I know he will. And then he’ll be like me.

 

The Nocti attacked in full swing last night. The Sanguinatus were there to help us. The battle raged at midnight. But the beings were ferocious monsters. So much bloodshed, so many lives lost. Battle was fought everywhere. Troupes of men with guns and stakes accompanied with Sanguinatus stationed themselves at different location of the town, to battle. The Gellars were hidden in the cellar at our mansion. A number of Sanguinatus supporters and the men of the Council were guarding them.

 

The attack was vicious and sudden. We were betrayed by someone. They knew that the Gellers were the bloodline they sought. I saw my father ripped limb to limb by a monster. I screamed and buried the stake in him. Every single man around me was dying. But the Sanguinatus were powerful. Victory seemed to be coming. Dawn was nearing. Sun break was to happen any moment. I ran to check on Evan and Alex. The room was in a huge mess. And there was blood splattered on the walls. Horrified I rushed out of the door that led into the woods. As I approached a grove, I saw Alex fallen on the ground. A Noctimonstra was pinned to the tree by a stake through his arm while a Sanguinatus grabbed Alex and buried his teeth into his neck. I screamed in horror and anger, and rushed at him with my axe. The vampire released Alex who fell to the ground and lay still. He grabbed me and bit me in the neck. As he began sucking blood, I felt life draining out of me. But, suddenly, a stake surfaced from his chest. Evan had rescued me.

 

But he staggered, swayed and fell to the ground. I saw blood gushing out of his throat too. The Nocti got rid of the stake that pinned him to the tree and moved towards Alex. I saw him bend and look at Alex’s dead body.

 

That was the last I saw before the world faded out… forever.

 

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Aaron’s Story VIII

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I finished reading and kept the journal aside. The mist shifted a little. It was a cold, gloomy day, much like my mood after I had finished reading Daniel’s journal. I finally knew his life’s story. I saw how much he had been hurt. The pain he had felt when he had lost Alex. No wonder he was so unwilling to commit to our relationship, any relationship.

 

I looked up from my spot under the tree and saw Daniel smiling sadly, sitting under the huge oak opposite to me. I got up and walked slowly towards him. The twigs and dried leaves crushed and broke under my feet as I headed towards him. Apart from the chirping of a few birds and the occasional wind that swayed the mist, everything was silent in the woods. This was the spot where he had lost Alex, his love, his humanity… his life. As I reached near him, he let out his left hand for mine. I gave him my right hand and he pulled me close to him. I sat between his legs, resting on his chest. His strong arms surrounded me in a tight embrace and I softly kissed the nape of his neck.

 

“So, how did you find my love story?” He asked with a slight smile.

 

“I never thought you could be so romantic.” I answered with a wink.

 

A wide grin appeared on his handsome face.

 

“You still don’t know a lot about me.”

 

“And what could that be? I thought I pretty much saw everything last night.” I winked and laughed.

 

“One hell of a smart ass, aren’t you?” He retorted before tickling my sides.

 

I giggled and tried to get away from him. But, he grabbed my arms and pushed me toward himself. I crashed into his chest and he wrapped his left arm around my waist while tickling me with the right hand. Our combined laughter echoed throughout the woods.

 

“Ok! Stop. Come on, stop!” I insisted out of breath with laughter.

 

He stopped and looked at me with an affectionate smile.

 

“You know why you’re so special for me?”

 

“Cuz’ I’m super hot and you can’t get a better guy.” I joked.

 

He laughed. “That and the fact that you make me feel. All these years, I never felt anything. After Alex I just couldn’t feel for anyone, anything. But when you came, I don’t know. Everything just changed. Even in the frequent arguments with you, there was this passion, this feeling of being alive. Yeah, that’s it. You make me feel alive.”

 

I leaned in and kissed him on the lips.

 

“You really need to stop complimenting me so much. It’d be bad for you if I became a snob due to all that praise.” I added to the kiss.

 

“Excuse me? If you became a snob? Really now? So, you are saying that you’re not a snob?” He replied sarcastically.

 

I narrowed my eyes. “You know dude, that attitude won’t get you any from me.”

 

“Really?” He questioned wickedly and pulled me closer. He breathed on the nape of my neck. A strong tingling sensation ran through my body. I felt my member stirring. His hand moved from my shoulders, travelling the length of my body and coming towards my waist. I shifted in his embrace and my hand travelled to unzip his jacket. I slipped my hand under his shirt and caressed his chest. The feeling of the strong pecks with a little hair on the chest made me crave for more. My member was throbbing and leaking now. He pulled me for a kiss and his tongue began to ravish my mouth. I caressed his chest with my right and grabbed his member through his jeans with my left. I felt him grunting as he kissed me with increased intensity. He pulled me closer as if he wanted every part of me. The feeling of being desired so much filled me with great ecstasy.

 

But the moment of bliss and love was not to last. Daniel suddenly pulled away.

 

“Someone’s coming.” He said with alertness. It was amazing how he could get out of the making out so soon. My brain was still fuzzy with all the testosterone.

 

We got up and I turned to look in the direction Dan was looking. Within a minute I heaved a sigh of relief. It was Evan with Sean.

 

“It’s you guys! Dan here freaked me out.” I said jovially.

 

“What’s wrong?” Dan said and then I noticed the tense looks on their faces.

 

“You guys are together now?” Sean looked at us holding hands.

 

“Yeah!” I smiled and Dan put his hand around my waist.

 

Sean and Evan exchanged crestfallen looks.

 

“Okay! Seriously, what is wrong?” Dan questioned noticing them.

 

“Daniel…”

 

I looked around. Evan had opened his mouth to speak but it wasn’t his voice. Sean stood frozen. I turned to look at Dan. His face registered nothing but shock. He was numb and pale. I followed his gaze and saw a young blond guy step forward. He looked pale and slightly weak. He walked towards us. He stopped a foot away from us. Dan was staring at him incessantly. His hand fell from my waist and he staggered. I started to realize, the description I’d just read… the innocent face, the blonde guy, and the emerald green eyes. No! It couldn’t be. This wasn’t him. How could it be? But my fears were realized. I had nothing left to say when I heard my lover’s voice.

“Alex…!”