Team Volturi

Around the end of July Aro received a wedding invitation from Alice Cullen announcing that Bella Swan and Edward Cullen were to be married on August 13th although Caius was not happy to hear the news as he knew this was the Cullen’s way of delaying Bella’s transformation further by having a wedding first. Aro on the other hand was excited to hear of the nuptials even if this was the Cullen’s way of announcing that Bella was to become one of them. “I’m going to guess that Danni hasn’t received an invitation or even been notified of the upcoming wedding” Marcus mused aloud “Seeing as they cut her out of their lives months ago, I doubt it” Caius replied “I think we should be the ones tell her” Aro said and his brothers nodded in agreement “I agree. I won’t have secrets kept from her” Caius replied, his protectiveness coming to the surface, knowing that the news would likely upset her.  “Can I be there when you tell her please?” Demetri asked as he and Felix were the only other vampires in the room “Of course my dear boy” Marcus replied “Thank you master. This news is likely to upset her, especially after being cut out of her family’s lives” Demetri replied.

Danni was quiet over the next few days and everyone knew why and didn’t question her about it, they just let her be. Danni kept Nicolai close during these few days too, choosing to spend time with him alone. During one their shopping trips, Nicolai finds a ‘World’s Best Daddy’ mug “Mummy can I get this for Daddy please?” He asked pointing to the mug. Danni smiled before answering “Of course you can sweetie, He’ll love it” “Thank you Mummy” Nicolai replied and hugged her legs.

Later that night after his shift ended, Demetri returned to his room and saw Danni and Nicolai waiting for him, a blue and silver gift bag sitting on the coffee table. “Hello mi amore…” He kissed Danni’s cheek “…Hi buddy” He kissed his son’s hair before taking a seat beside them on the sofa. “Hi Daddy, this is for you” Nicolai said with a big grin on his face, pointing to the gift bag. “Hi babe” Danni replied smiling as Demetri reached over and opened the gift bag to reveal the mug inside. Danni and Nicolai watched as a big smile appeared on Demetri’s face, his eyes becoming glassy with unshed tears “Thank you so much buddy. I love it and you very much” He lifted his son onto his lap and hugged him close, placing a kiss on his hair.

Danni and Demetri started making plans for their wedding as Danni wanted a Winter wedding at the castle. Aro offered to officiate at the ceremony and Danni and Demetri agreed, both surprised and pleased that he wanted to participate in their wedding this way. “It would be an honour Aro, thank you” Danni said as Caius rolled his eyes dramatically from his throne, Demetri tried not to laugh at Caius’ reaction.

Heidi, Chelsea, Jane were asked to be Danni’s Bridesmaids, Gianna taking on the role of Maid of Honour. Felix was chosen as Best Man with Alec and Santiago being groomsmen and Nicolai was given the role of Ring Bearer, something he was very excited about.

Danni asked Caius to accompany her on a walk of the North facing garden and he agreed as he enjoyed spending time with his adopted daughter. They took a seat on the bench in front of the fountain and Danni took an unneeded breath before speaking. “Caius, I have something important I would like to ask you…” Caius took her hand in his and nodded for her to continue “…I wondered if you would give me away at the wedding?” Caius’ face lit up “Of course I would my child. I’m honoured that you asked” He wrapped his arms around her in hug “Thank you, not just for agreeing to give me away but for making me feel like part of the family” “You are most welcome Danni. As far as I am concerned you are my daughter and I would do anything and everything to ensure you are happy and safe always” He pulled her in for another hug, Danni resting her head on his shoulder, feeling tears fill her eyes that will go unshed.

Athenodora told Demetri that she and Caius would pay for Danni’s bridal gown along with the Bridesmaid and Maid of Honour dresses. “You don’t need to do that Mi’ lady” He replied “I know we don’t have to but we want to. As you know we see Danni as our daughter and this is our gift to you both” Demetri nodded “Thank you very much for your offer. It’s greatly appreciated” “You are most welcome my dear” She replied before giving him a quick hug. Demetri has always been Athenodora’s favourite guard and she was very happy he would become her official son-in-law soon.

Danni and Demetri had decided on a Red and White colour scheme for their Winter wedding, deciding on having Poinsettias as the centre pieces as they are a Winter flower. Red and White Roses would make up the bridal bouquets.

Caius had the guards freshen up the ballroom’s décor as it was looking a little dull after years of not being used. The cream-coloured walls looked bright and fresh against the polished real wood flooring once finished.

Marcus arranged for ‘Midnight Fangs’ a vampire quartet to play at the wedding, having had them perform at the castle during previous balls and galas.

If only they knew that all of these plans were going to be put on hold…

It is early December when Irina enters Castillo Volterra and makes her way to the throne room. Santiago opens the doors and she enters, Demetri and Felix walking towards her, curious as to what she wants. “What a pleasant surprise” Aro says as Irina enters the throne room, Marcus looks fed up and closed his book softly. “What do you want?” Caius asks sounding a little irritated turning around to face her “Hmm” She pauses a moment before replying “I have to report a crime…the Cullens…they have done something…terrible.” A smirk appears on Caius’ face and Aro closes his book and flashes over to Irina “Allow me my dear” Aro says taking her hand in his and looking at her thoughts and memories regarding the Cullen’s ‘crime’ “Oh my” He says once he’s finished. “Brother what have they have done now?” Caius asks as he walks towards them “It would appear dear brother they have created an immortal child” Aro replies “WHAT?!!” Caius shouts “ARE YOU SURE?” “Irina saw the child herself, she was jumping in the air catching snowflakes” Aro replied “Then we send the guards now! They can destroy the child and the Cullens” Caius responds “No brother. I think we will take our time, gather some witnesses and pay them a visit ourselves along with the guards” Aro replies calmly, despite the anger simmering inside. “A public trial?” Caius smirks “Yes brother. A public trial…this way we can be sure that our kind are reminded that creating immortal children is still illegal” Aro replies “Thank you for letting us know my dear” Marcus said smiling “Santiago please show Irina to one of our guest rooms” Marcus says looking at the guard “Yes master” Santiago bows his head and leads her to a guest room on the second floor.

Later that day Aro calls Danni to the throne room and asks the guards to leave except for Demetri. “Thank you for coming Danni…we have something we need to discuss with you” Aro starts “Ok. Have I done something wrong?” She asks looking between the Kings and Demetri “No, Danni you have done nothing wrong” Aro replies with a warm smile and Danni instantly relaxes “However, someone you know well has done something wrong, illegal even…” He pauses for a moment “…It would seem that the Cullens have created an immortal child…” “You have to got to be kidding me? Like seriously? What the hell?” Danni cuts Aro off. The Kings and Demetri cannot help laughing a little at her reaction. “Well I hope you plan to deal with them accordingly Caius” She adds looking at him “Yes child we do. There will be a public trial in Forks with witnesses” He replies and she nods “You don’t object to that?” Marcus asks curiously “No, I don’t. Caius gave me a history lesson once whilst Demi was away and informed me of your laws and how you dealt with the immortal children problem when it arose centuries ago” “But Bella’s your sister” Marcus adds, his head tilted to the side slightly “Don’t remind me!...” Danni bites back and Demetri intertwined his fingers with hers, squeezing them gently “…She left me here nine months ago and hasn’t looked back, remember” The Kings all nod at her, sympathy shining in their ruby eyes at the memory of that day.

A moment of silence passed before Danni spoke again “Can I ask how you know about this?” “We had a visitor this afternoon and she told us about the child. In fact, the child was seen with your sister” Aro replied “Bella may not have been aware of immortal children and the law surrounding them but Carlisle would have known and I’m sure Edward would also have been aware. They have broken a law and need to face the consequences and let’s face it you’ve been lenient in the past with Bella and Edward and look how they’ve repaid you” She responds back “That was not the reaction I was expecting from you my dear but I will say I am impressed with the way you have handled the news” Aro tells her honestly “Thank you Aro. I do, however, have a request…regarding the trial and any subsequent punishment” “We’re listening my dear” Caius replies this time and steps closer to her “I do not want Demetri to have any involvement in the punishment of the Cullens, especially Bella and Edward. I am not sure if you are aware but last summer Edward and his brothers killed a vampire who tried to kill Bella and as a result the vampire’s mate sought revenge…she even tried to kill Bella. This took place after Edward left her…before we came here…” She paused to see the Kings reactions, they nodded for her to continue “…As selfish as this may seem I am asking that Demetri is not involved as I do not want any of the Cullens to come after me or him as revenge. I do not want to be looking over my shoulder or worrying about him when he is on missions, more than I do already. Also, I do not want our son to grow up with only one parent” She added looking up at Demetri to see that he was looking down at her lovingly. “I think we can all agree with that request my dear, after all you haven’t asked for anything since you arrived and you understand the situation we are in and have handled it better than we expected. I also have no desire to risk anything happening to my grandson or his parents” Caius answered her “Thank you Caius” She replied and gave him a quick hug “Yes thank you master for agreeing to Danni’s request” “You are both welcome. We do, however, ask that you both accompany us when we go to Forks” He replies “Of course master” Demetri replies and Danni nods in agreement.

The following day Irina was in the library reading along with Alec when Danni entered with Nicolai “What the...?” Irina says shocked when she notices the little boy who resembles Demetri but who clearly has a heartbeat “Irina this Danni, Demetri’s mate and their son Nicolai” Alec introduces them “It’s nice to meet you Irina” Danni smiles at her “Nice to meet you too” Irina replies “Nicolai…he has a-a heartbeat…but how?” Irina asks “I’m half-human, half-vampire” He replies “I had him whilst I was still human, Demetri changed me after he was born…about six months ago” Danni adds “But he-he looks like...” Irina trails off “His vampire side means he grows faster than his human counterparts and is quite smart for his age too” Danni tells her as she takes a seat on the sofa opposite her and Nicolai sits beside his mum. “I didn’t know that vampires could have children” Irina says looking at the boy “Neither did we. It was a surprise to us all to discover that male vampires can father children with human females” Alec responds. “I’m gifted too like mummy and daddy” Nicolai says proudly “Really? May I ask what your gift is Nicolai?” Irina asks, curiosity shining in her amber coloured eyes “I’m a shield like mummy and I am able to track people like daddy, but only those with shields. I fill in the gaps of daddy’s gift” He replies proudly “Wow” Irina breathed out, “I can’t believe how much he looks like Demetri” Irina says looking between Nicolai and Danni “I know, me too. He’s a mini version of his dad” Danni replies and Nicolai just smiles back at Irina.

A few days later Nicolai and Irina were walking in the South facing garden when he stopped walking and gently tugged on her hand to get her attention. “Irina, can I ask why you have amber coloured eyes seeing as you are a vampire?” Nicolai asked curiosity shining in his blue eyes “I have amber eyes because I am a vegetarian vampire…” “What’s a vegetarian vampire?” He asked, cutting her off “A vegetarian vampire survives on animal blood instead of human blood” She responded and watched as Nicolai tried to process this information and knew he would have more questions for her. “What animals do you eat and how do you find them?” “Where I live in Alaska, there is a very big forest surrounding our house and my family and I hunt the animals there. In the forest there are different animals, Bears, Moose, Wolves and Caribou to name a few” “Oh, that’s different. Why don’t you hunt humans like other vampires?” “My family and I used to hunt humans but after many years we decided to try surviving on animal blood and found that we could survive that way, although there are not many vegetarian vampires” “You are the first vegetarian vampire I have met” He said with a smile “You are the first vampire / human hybrid that I’ve met” She replied with a smile of her own. They resumed their walk around the garden and continued to talk about different topics. Irina was surprised at how ‘grown-up’ Nicolai was and sounded despite how young he was.

Whilst the Kings and the four Elite guards were away from the castle to gather some witnesses of their own for the upcoming Cullen trial, Danni found that Nicolai’s shielding ability had developed. “Look Mummy…” Danni looked up from her book to see a faint shimmering glow circling her son, giving him the appearance of being inside a protective bubble. Danni smiled, feeling proud of her son and his growing ability. “That’s amazing sweetie” She praised him and he smiled back at her. She wondered if she could get her shield do the same or something similar at the very least. ‘It’d be nice to be able to protect the ones I love, as well as myself’ She thought to herself and decided to ask Santiago and Heidi for their help in Demetri’s absence.

Danni and Nicolai met with Santiago and Heidi the following morning in the south-facing garden as they had agreed to help them develop their shielding abilities. Nicolai asked to train with Santiago as he knew that Demetri had trained Santiago when he joined the guard and still spars with him regularly. Danni and Heidi worked together to see how her shield worked and if she could shield someone other than herself.

With a lot of hard work, Danni was able to shield multiple people as she had practised constantly, pushing her shield to its max. Her shield looked different to her son’s as hers looked almost like it was an extension of her, a faint shimmering was the only hint that her shield was in use to protect the ones she loved.

Upon Demetri’s return to the castle Danni and Nicolai updated him on the development of their gifts. Nicolai was able to shield not only himself but one other person easily. “I hope I can shield more people when I’m older” He said looking up at his dad “You’re doing just fine as you are buddy” Demetri replied proudly, as he looked down at his son as they both stood inside Nicolai’s ‘protective bubble.’

Caius, Aro and Marcus stood watching Danni and Nicolai with proud smiles on their faces. “At least we can keep Edward from reading our thoughts now” Caius said proudly and nudged Aro slightly “Yes, and it’ll be a good surprise for the damned law breaker too” Aro replied with a smile.

December 31st – Confrontation –

Once it had been declared that Renesmee was not an immortal child, Irina was ripped apart and burned for providing a false allegation against the Cullens. “That’s a shame mummy, I liked her” Nicolai said low so only his parents heard him and she nodded in response.

Alice and Jasper made their way back to the Cullens and their witnesses but before anyone could leave Vladimir shouts out “TRAITOR” and looks directly at Danni “Excuse me?” She asks “You are on the wrong side my dear, should you not be over here supporting your sister?” He replies “Supporting my sister, why would I want to do that after what she and her precious Edward did?” “You mean have a child together?” Stefan replies “No. I’m talking about the fact that they left me in Volterra nine months ago and haven’t been in touch since. In fact, I received one letter from Esme telling me that once Edward and Bella landed back here, they told my dad I had died in an accident and that a memorial was held for me. Edward made that decision on the flight back from Volterra thus, ensuring I could never come home to see my dad, never have the chance to introduce him to my mate. They took away my chance to say goodbye” She replied and noticed the shocked looks on the faces of the Cullen’s witnesses “Oh…you all look surprised. Did they not tell you that part? Did they also tell you that they never invited me to their wedding? I only found out about the wedding from Aro after they sent an invitation to him to let him know it was taking place. It was their way of announcing Bella’s transformation.” She added and Demetri squeezed her hand gently. Caius moved closer to Danni, a scowl settling on his face.

“I notice you have a child of your own” Tanya says looking at Nicolai “Yes, I do. My son was born six months ago and my fiancée changed me after he was delivered, we didn’t want to risk another pregnancy as there was no guarantee I would handle another one so well” She responded and noticed Carlisle looked a little confused. “Danni drank human blood regularly once we discovered she was pregnant, this allowed her to meet the baby’s needs and she was able to keep certain foods down too” Caius advised him proudly and Carlisle nodded, clearly impressed as it sounded like Danni had an easier pregnancy than her sister.

“Why did you not tell me I had a nephew?” Bella asked “Why would I? You cut me out of your life, cut me out of my own family. I have a new family now and I couldn’t be happier” Danni replies smiling.

“You have a chance to reconnect with one another, especially as you both have children now” Esme replies softly “Esme as much as I like you and Carlisle, we’re all aware that if it wasn’t for this ‘situation’ we wouldn’t even be talking. I mean none of you got in touch to advise me of the wedding or that my niece was born three months ago” Danni replied. “You can’t take the high ground Danni, your mate would have killed us if there had been a fight today” Edward called out “That is where you are wrong Eddie. The Kings agreed to my request of keeping Demetri out of any executions involving you Cullens as I didn’t want any of you coming after me or my mate as revenge. I protected my family unlike you. I mean look what happened after you killed James, his mate went after Bella to avenge him and you weren’t even here to protect her. So, I have every reason to take the high ground as you put it as I have done nothing to any of you” She replied. Edward went to speak but Caius cut him off “I would consider your next words to Danni very carefully Cullen or you’ll find yourself joining Irina in becoming a pile of ash” “Why do you care what he says to her?” Bella asked “I care because Danni is my daughter and no one, and I do mean no one will disrespect a member of my family” Caius replies and Demetri smirks at the Cullens as surprise registers on their faces.

“What?…how…?” Bella struggled to speak, too shocked at Caius’ news. “My wife and I always wanted to have a daughter and once we met and got to know Danni, things fell into place and we came to care for her as though she was our daughter…” Caius spoke looking directly at Bella “And I came to care about Caius and Dora as my parents in return” Danni finished Caius’ sentence with a warm smile. Everyone watched as Athenodora stepped forward and slipped her hand into her husband’s as she spoke “We were there for Danni when she needed love and support as she navigated her way through a new relationship, whilst she settled into her new life and her new home...” Bella looked as though she wanted to say something but Athenodora didn’t give her chance. “…You abandoned your sister without a second thought when she needed you, needed your support to navigate her way through a new relationship, a relationship with a vampire no less and everything that came with that, seeing as you had experience with this but you chose Edward instead.” Danni nodded and felt so loved in that moment hearing her adoptive parents speak this way about her.

“Just so we are clear Bella, you will not be receiving an invitation to our wedding as it’s for our family and friends only” Demetri adds and Danni nods in agreement before adding “We had to postpone our special day because of you and your ‘antics.’”

Silence filled the air as no one spoke, as they tried to process everything they’ve just heard. “Danni and the Volturi are telling the truth about everything…” Maggie says looking around at the Cullen’s witnesses “…And Bella and Edward haven’t even bothered to apologise or make amends for their actions” Maggie continued, distaste clear in her voice.

Meanwhile Danni is going through her transformation. Her body felt like it was fire, every nerve ending burning as her blood was being replaced with venom, Demetri’s venom. She couldn’t help the random thoughts running through her head. ‘I felt Demi kiss my neck before he bit me letting his venom enter my system. I know that Heidi, Chelsea and Gianna changed me into a clean dress and brushed my hair for me and that Felix carried me back here. This is too much I don’t know if I can do this.’ “I love you so much cara mia” She hears Demetri say softly in her ear. ‘I can do this. I have do this… for Demi, for Nicolai.’ She tries to lay as still as possible despite the pain she is in, knowing that Demetri would feel bad enough that he is the reason she is going through this right now. She tries to focus on Demetri’s voice as he reads to her, hoping to distract herself from the burning pain that’s tearing through her entire body.

On the third day of Danni’s transformation Demetri took Nicolai to Heidi’s room “Can you watch Nicolai for me? Danni should wake up today and I’d like to take her hunting before she sees him again” “Of course I can, just come and find us when you’re ready” Heidi responds smiling “Hello little one, ready to spend the day with auntie Heidi?” Nicolai coos in response; Demetri chuckled as it would seem that his son has awakened the maternal side within all the females in the castle.

Demetri returned to his and Danni’s shared room and stood at the balcony doors looking out over the garden waiting for Danni to wake up. Her heartbeat had slowed right down now so he knew it would be soon. Danni’s heart stopped beating and Demetri looked over his shoulder to see her open her now bright ruby red eyes. She could see everything more clearly, including the little dust particles in the air and she could feel the individual threads on the Egyptian cotton duvet cover beneath her. 

It took her a moment to adjust to this new sight, then a scent she had never smelt before flooded her senses ‘sandalwood and citrus’ Her eyes scanned the room and they fell on Demetri and she smiled wide, getting off the bed and running into his arms. She threw her arms around his neck and held him close “Oomph. You’re a lot stronger than I am now, so it’s your turn not to break me mi amore” Demetri said into her ear “Sorry Demi” She pulled back a little as he took in her appearance, his eyes looking her up and down “You’re absolutely stunning baby” He ran his fingers through her hair that was now longer, brighter and fuller than before. He leant down and kissed her lips. “We’re the same temperature now Dem” She said smiling holding his hand in hers and he nods “I’ll have to get used to that” He chuckles “I’m so used to you being warm, but I’m so happy that I get to spend forever with you” “I love you Demi” She kisses him soundly on the mouth “I love you too.”

“How’s Nicolai?” She asks “He’s amazing cara mia and so gorgeous. Everyone loves him” “Where is he? Can I see him?” She looks towards the door “I want to take you hunting first. Come on” He takes her hand in his and they make their way out of the castle and as it is an overcast day, they don’t have to worry about being exposed.

They leave Volterra to go hunting, Danni noticing every little thing around her as they run together, including how fast Demetri is. He stops running and turns to catch her in his arms, Danni coming to a stop in his embrace. “Close your eyes and listen, tell me what you can hear amore” She closed her eyes and focused on listening to her surroundings. “I can hear faint chatter of people below, birds in the trees, traffic in the distance. It’s amazing Dem” “You’ve focused really well cara. Come with me and I’ll show you how to hunt. Stay close”

Ten minutes later they were standing on the roof a building looking down at an alleyway that was about a five-minute walk from a bar. “Keep your eyes on those two” Demetri said pointing to a couple leaving the bar and making their way towards the alleyway. He took her hand in his “Jump with me cara” They landed silently in the alley below them. Danni caught the scent of the couple and squeezed Demetri’s hand tightly “It’s ok cara. I’ve got you” She nods and brings her other hand to her throat feeling the burn. “You stay here and I’ll lure them in ok” He kisses her temple and releases her hand. About 30 seconds later Demetri and the human couple enter the alley and make their way towards Danni, once they are near enough Danni hears Demetri softly call out “Now” She watches as he grabs the man and sinks his teeth into his neck, the woman goes to run but Danni is quicker and grabs her around the throat holding her to her chest and bites down on her neck, the blood flowing down her throat easing the burn. When she had drained the human, she released her and she fell to the ground. “Well done amore” Demetri says smiling and kisses her “Very efficient. Still thirsty?” “Thank you babe and yes I am, a little” She kisses him back “Let’s dispose of these two and then we’ll find you someone else.” Demetri snaps their necks and then they throw the couple into the nearby river and watch as the bodies wash away. “Come on cara” He takes her hand in his and they make their way towards another part of the city where they kill and dispose of two more humans. “You were amazing cara. You were fast, efficient and they were very clean kills…for a newborn. I’m so proud of you” He wraps his arm around her, pulling her to his chest and kisses her “I learnt from the best babe” She kissed him, tasting a little blood from his last kill “Let’s go home” She laced her fingers with his and they made their way back to the castle.

Danni enters her and Demetri’s shared room and sees Nicolai for the first time since waking as a newborn. He was lying in his crib and she leant down and picked him up gently. She didn’t make a move to harm him, just cradled him to her and took in the new baby smell he had. She felt multiple sets of eyes on her and realisation flashed in her eyes “You think I’d harm my baby…my son?” “No, no not all mi amore” Demetri replied stepping closer, though her eyes never left Felix, Heidi or the twins’ faces. “We never knew that our kind could have children before now and therefore do not know how or if the scent of his blood would affect your senses. Newborns are…driven by instinct and I didn’t want to take a chance with the two of you as I know you would absolutely hate yourself if you harmed our son in any way.” Danni thought for a moment before responding “So you had four vampires watch over me along with yourself, that’s a little excessive Dem. Surely you and Felix would have sufficed” The others chuckled “So you aren’t mad at us sweetie?” Jane asked “Of course not, a little irritated that I was being scrutinised whilst I held my son for the first time since waking as a newborn” She replied “That’s on me darling” Demetri said as he wrapped an arm around her back and kissed her temple. “I know but I am going to ask everyone to leave us so the three of us can bond as a family. I don’t want any other firsts with my son to feel…tainted” Demetri felt a little guilty hearing that his mate felt that way and knew that she would never forget feeling that way whenever she thought back on today now that she was immortal. The others nodded “Sorry Danni” They murmured as they left the room.

Once they were alone Demetri whispered into her ear “I’m so very sorry that I have upset you, that I have ruined this moment between you both…” He looked down at his son briefly before continuing “I love you both so very very much, I don’t know what I’d do if I ever lost either of you” He kissed her temple again and stepped back from her. “Where are you going?” “I thought I would step away for a bit, allow you two to bond as I did with him whilst I waited for you to wake up” “Don’t be silly, come here. I just want some time with my boys” She smiled at him and watched as he stepped closer to her “Kiss me Dem” He complied, kissing her lips softly before leaning down to kiss his son’s head. “For the record you didn’t ruin anything. You were just being overprotective…like way overprotective” She chuckled and he did too “Can you blame me? I’ve dealt with many newborns over the years but…you’re different…you’re mine. My mate, my creation, the mother of my gorgeous son. You are acting nothing like a typical newborn, you’re so calm and in control and I…” “…You worried if my newborn instincts would kick in around our son, that I may harm him without ever meaning to” She finished for him “Exactly darling” “And that is why I am not mad or upset as your actions came from the heart, from your love for me as they have always done” She kissed his cheek “I love you more than I ever thought possible Dem” “I know mi amore. I feel the exact same way about you and our son.”

The others heard their conversation from the corridor as they lingered outside Alec’s door down the hall. “Danni is amazing and she is very calm for a newborn. I’m impressed” Jane said “I agree. I think that maybe that has something to do with the fact that she knew ahead of time that she would be turned, knew what to expect. I mean she has lived with us for three months and therefore was prepared for this life” Heidi replied “Not to mention she is a mum and her maternal side is clearly showing” Alec added with a smile “I think they’ll be fine and if they need us, Demetri knows where to find us” Felix added before walking back towards his room, the others doing the same.

Later that night Demetri and Danni stand over Nicolai’s crib and watch him sleep for a bit “I just want to say thank you for giving me a son” He cups her face in his hands and kisses her “I still can’t believe I’m a dad” She smiles up at him “I didn’t do this on my own, you helped Dem...” She kissed his lips softly “…I’m glad that I got to have a baby with you” She added and rested her head on his chest and looked down at their sleeping son “I thank the gods every day for bringing you into my life…” He kissed the top of her head “…you and our son.”

As soon as Danni closes the door to their closet Demetri pulls Danni towards him, turning her so her back is against his chest, his arms wrapping around her from behind, and slowly leaves a trail of kisses up and down her neck before gently turning her head upwards towards him, covering her mouth with his in a loving kiss. She turns in his arms and resumes kissing him. He bites her lip asking for entrance and slips his tongue into her mouth, their tongues moving together as he puts his other hand on the back of her head deepening the kiss. She moans into the kiss and one hand goes to the back of his head; nails scratching at his hair at the base of his neck. He growls low and Danni moves her other hand downwards and brushes over his crotch “Danni” He says with a warning tone breaking the kiss and he feels her hand squeeze him “Demi” She replies and winks at him.

Before he knows what’s happening Danni pushes him on to sofa and climbs onto his lap straddling him and begins leaving a trail of open mouth kisses along his neck. A soft growl left him when he felt her fangs bite down on his neck and the tingle of her venom marking his skin “Mine” She purred in his ear and he smiled, liking that she had marked him as hers.

He placed his hands on her cheeks and captured her lips in a passionate kiss; she bit his lip gently as she grinded against his hardening cock, his lips parting allowing her to deepen the kiss, their tongues dancing together in a sensuous rhythm. She started to unbutton his shirt, her hands moving over his chest, her nails lightly scratching him; a light growl left him at the feel of her now cold, firm touch. A reminder that she was no longer human, that she was in fact, now an immortal like him.

In one swift movement he pulled at her dress, ripping it from her “Hey” “It was in my way amore” His ruby eyes darkening with desire and he moved his hands to her ass and stood from the sofa, gently laying her down on the rug in front of the fireplace. “So beautiful and sexy” He said as he gazed down at his mate, if she was still human she would be blushing. They resumed kissing and touching one another, their arousal building and filling the air around them. “These are in my way” Danni said low and she pulled his trousers from him, ripping them in the process. He chuckled low before tugging her bra and panties from her. His head dipped down and he took one nipple into his mouth before she could respond. Danni’s back arched slightly in response to Demetri’s actions as he massaged one breast as he continued to kiss and suck the other.

Demetri adjusted himself between Danni’s thighs and slowly entered her, stilling for just a moment before slowing moving in and out of her, making love to her. Soft moans filled the room as Danni’s body responded to every touch, every kiss that Demetri left on her naked body. “Oh…Dem” He pulled almost all the way out of her and ran his hand up her thigh holding her leg to his side as he re-entered her filling her fully, deeply, completely being at one with her. Another moan of pleasure slipped past her lips as he hit that spot inside her over and over again. He roughly thrusted into her and captured her lips with his muffling her cry; her nails scratching up his back as he continued to take her roughly, growling into her ear “Oh God…Danni!” He felt her walls tighten around him just before her orgasm washed over her, her body alight with a pleasure she’d never known before. She held him tightly to her as the intensity of her orgasm kept building as he continued to chase his release. “It’s…it’s…” She trailed off and felt his release fill her, noticing that it didn’t feel cold this time, in fact it felt warm and she smiled knowingly at him. He smiled and nodded in response, knowing what she was thinking in that moment. A few moments of silence passed between them before Danni spoke softly “I thought my first time with you as a human was amazing…but god that was…” “I know baby” He smiled and kissed her softly as he held her closer to him.

Although Demetri had enjoyed being intimate with Danni whilst she was human, this time was different, this time he was able to enjoy being with her intimately without the fear of hurting her. “I love you Demi” “I love you too cara mia.” They made love to one another over and over again that night, seeing as Danni no longer needed to eat, breath or sleep.

Nicolai was just a week old when he said his first word “Daddy” Demetri’s face lit up with pride as he scooped his son up into his arms, holding him close. Danni watched the two of them from the closet doorway and couldn’t help smiling. “Such a clever little boy” Demetri praised his son and turned to see his mate watching them. “I can’t believe he said his first word at only a week old” Danni said “None of us know how slowly or quickly he will grow and develop as he is the first human / vampire child to be born” Demetri replied “All the more reason to document his development in his baby book.” She replied with a smile.

Nicolai shocked everyone when he took his first steps, seeing as he was only three weeks old. He was playing with his cars in the family room and pulled himself up and took his first shaky steps over to where Demetri was building a castle out of building blocks, Danni sitting beside him. “Can I help daddy?” His little voice rang out in the almost quiet room “Of course you can” Demetri replied as Danni lifted him into her lap smiling proudly at her son. “He’s amazing Demi” “Yes, he is” He replied and kissed his son’s cheek.

Nicolai was so loved dearly by his parents, grandparents and his aunts and uncles in the castle, that he was never without someone to play with or spend time with. The vampires were amazed at how quickly he was developing compared to his human counterparts outside the castle and the Kings put it down to his vampire side. Aro tracked his development with his parent’s blessing “We are curious about your development and growth little one as we have never met anyone like you before” Aro said softly to him as he measured his height again and made a note of the physical changes to the boy in the past week.

Caius would often ‘steal’ his grandson and would hide away in his study so he could read stories to him. Athenodora would join them sometimes, sitting beside her husband cuddling her grandson whilst Caius reads aloud. Nicolai often fell asleep in his grandparent’s arms following story time, something they all enjoyed.

Nicolai is cuddled up to Danni as they watch Hotel Transylvania when he suddenly turns and asks her “Does daddy turn into a bat? Can you turn into a bat? Ahh, can I turn into a bat?” He asks excitedly, Demetri hears him from the closet and chuckles. “No sweetie, we can’t turn into bats” Danni answers “Oh” Nicolai replies looking and sounding a little sad, Danni holds him a little closer and kisses the top of his head. A little while later Nicolai asks “Does daddy say ‘I’m Dracula blah blah blah’?” Danni can’t help but laugh a little “No little one I don’t say ‘I’m Dracula blah blah blah’” Demetri replies imitating Dracula’s voice from the film and smiles as he sees his son’s eyes light up a little “Daddy you’re the best” Demetri smiles and takes a seat beside Danni lifting Nicolai onto his lap “I know” He kisses his son’s hair and they continue to watch the film as a family “Mommy was daddy your zing?” Nicolai asked once the film ended “Yes sweetie. Daddy was my zing” She replies smiling and kisses Demetri’s cheek “I love you Dem” “I love you too Danni” “What about me?” Nicolai asks “We love you too” Demetri and Danni say at the same time.

The following day Demetri spoke to Marcus and asked if Gianna could be turned as she is not only friends with Danni but she helped him take care of Nicolai whilst Danni was undergoing her transformation. Marcus agreed and even added that her dedication to her work also went in her favour. “I’ll change Gianna myself as you have one newborn already under your care Demetri” “Understood Master and thank you” Demetri replied with a nod “You’re welcome and I’m glad that Gianna will be joining the family permanently.”

Demetri returned to his room and found Danni in the closet. “Danni, I have some news for you” He says as he approaches her, she turns and nods letting him know he had her attention. “I have spoken to Marcus and he has agreed to make Gianna an immortal and is even going to turn her himself as I already have a newborn under my care” Demetri said with a smile “Oh my god. You’re amazing. I love you” Danni says excitedly and threw her arms around Demetri’s neck. He chuckled and wrapped his arms around her, holding her close “I love you too darling” “Does she know? Can I tell her?” Demetri chuckled again “No, Gianna is not aware that I asked Marcus to turn her and yes, you can tell her. Marcus will talk to her about when her turning will take place once he’s told Aro and Caius of his plan” Danni kissed Demetri before leaving to find Gianna.

Demetri?” “Hi Gianna, it’s nice to see you too. Demetri and Nicolai are well. Nicolai is growing up so fast bless him, it’s taking a little getting used to” “I get that. It is a little weird to see him walking around the castle given how old he actually is” Danni smiled and nodded in agreement. “I have some news for you” Danni said, trying to contain her excitement “Ooh tell me, tell me” Gianna replied, curiosity shining in her eyes “Demetri spoke to Marcus about you becoming immortal…” Gianna gasped, clearly shocked “…We’re really good friends and you helped Demetri with Nicolai during my transformation. Marcus agreed and has decided to turn you himself” “Oh my god. Really?” Danni nodded “Really. Dem told me about ten minutes ago and Marcus will discuss the details with you later.” Gianna got up from her desk and hugged Danni “Thank you so much. I owe Demetri one” “No, you don’t, this is his way of saying thanks to you remember” Danni replied and felt Gianna nod in response.

A few days later Marcus changed Gianna and stayed with her for the first day as he wanted to ensure she was handing the change well. On day two Danni and Nicolai sat with her so she wouldn’t be alone. Danni read to Gianna hoping it may distract her a little from the burning sensation. Nicolai talked to her, telling her what he had been up and what was going on in the castle. ‘Ah bless him, love him greatly’ Gianna thought to herself. Danni smiled down at her son, proud that he was so caring and compassionate given his young age. Demetri spent day three with her as he didn’t want Nicolai in the room with a newborn as he was unsure how Gianna would react once she woke up.

Upon waking on day three Demetri and Alec took Gianna on her first hunting trip as it wasn’t safe for Marcus to do so as he was one of the Kings. Demetri noticed that Gianna was a messier newborn during her first hunting trip than Danni was. Gianna acted more like how a newborn vampire would than Danni did and Alec put that down to the fact that she had less time to adjust to the thought of becoming immortal than Danni. The one thing that everyone noticed about Gianna was that she was not tempted by Nicolai’s human side, something Danni and Demetri were pleased about.

Danni had been gone for most of the day and Demetri wondered aloud to himself “I wonder where your mummy is” “I know where she is” Nicolai replied and took off running to find his mum. “Hey, wait up” Demetri calls as he runs after him.

Nicolai finds Danni sitting in the north facing garden talking with Caius “Mummy” He calls out and runs towards her and Danni lifts him onto her lap just as Demetri enters the garden. “Hi Grandpa. See daddy, I said I knew where mummy was” Nicolai says grinning “I know and you found her very quickly. How did you do that?” He asks crouching down in front of them. “I just thought of mummy and I knew she was here.” This caught Caius’s attention as he and his brothers were waiting to find out if the boy was gifted like his parents. Demetri stands before sitting beside Danni on the bench turning slightly to face her and Nicolai “I think you may have a gift little one, like me and mummy” “You and mummy have a gift. What does that mean?” Nicolai asks “Some vampires have gifts, for example; Uncle Alec can take away a person’s senses, mummy is a shield; this means she can shield herself from psychic attacks and no one can read her mind unless she allows it and I am a tracker; I can pick up on the essence of someone’s mind and can follow it like a scent over any distance. To be able to do this I have to either have met that person physically or anyone who has met the person in the past. Although I cannot track mummy due to her shield” Nicolai nods smiling “Wow! Daddy yours and mummy’s gifts sound cool” Demetri and Danni smile hearing this “Are you able to track me daddy?” He asks curiously “I have never tried to” Demetri replies and concentrates on his son, trying to reach out and pick-up Nicolai’s tenor. “It would seem that I cannot track you little one. I think you may have a shielding ability like mummy, as well as the ability to track her” Nicolai smiles wide at his dad “Really? That’s cool. Can we a play game, get mummy to hide and see if I can find her again? Please daddy” Excitement shining in his blue eyes and Demetri looks at Caius who nods “Go on let’s have some fun and test his gift” “Thank you master. Sit with me and Caius whilst mummy goes and hide.” Danni passes Nicolai to Demetri and leaves the garden to go hide. “I’ll count to 20 mi amore and then we’ll come find you.” Twenty seconds later Demetri smiles at his son “Right let’s see if you can find mummy” Nicolai nodded and thought about Danni and how much he wanted to find her. He quickly climbed off his dad’s lap and started running towards the castle “Come on daddy, Grandpa” He called out and Demetri got up and followed his son “He’s very fast” Caius said as he ran beside Demetri.

Nicolai ran into the castle ballroom “I found you mummy” Demetri heard his son declare just before Danni giggles “Yes you did, my clever little boy” She bent down and scooped him up in her arms, spinning him around. “Well done son, you did great” Demetri said smiling at his son and placing a kiss on his head before kissing Danni’s lips “Looks like you can track me after all Demi, as long as our son is with you” She smiles and winks at him “That’s ok with me cara mia.” Demetri replies and wraps his arm around her.

“I’m curious though, can you find Aro, Nicolai?” Caius asks Nicolai and he shrugged, before closing his eyes and focusing on finding Aro “I can’t sense Uncle Aro, I’m sorry Grandpa” He sounded sad “Don’t be little one, this just confirms what I thought. You have a gift like your parents or should I say you have two gifts. First it appears that you are shield like your mummy and secondly, your tracking ability fills in the gaps of your daddy’s gift; enabling you to track people with strong psychic shields like your mummy” Caius replies and Demetri looks at his son in his mate’s arms with a proud smile on his face “That’s my boy” Nicolai smiled back at Demetri.

“I wonder how he is able to track people. Do you think he can pick up the tenors of someone’s mind like you or do you think it works differently for him as it seems he can only find people with shields?” Danni says curiously “I’m not sure but we have plenty of time to find out” Demetri replies wrapping his arm around her and placing a kiss to her temple. “Are you ok knowing that he can track the people you cannot?” She asks “Of course cara. It means when Nicolai is older, he will be able to help me track people down and then there won’t be anyone that can hide from the Volturi” Demetri says smiling proudly and ruffling his son’s hair. “I can promise you this, Nicolai will a member of the elite guard along with his parents once he is old enough” Caius says smiling wide “Really Grandpa?” Nicolai asks “Yes my boy. You and daddy will be a great team when it comes to tracking others and I can’t wait to see how your gifts develop” Caius replies smiling “That’s good isn’t it daddy? I get to work with you when I’m all growed up” Nicolai replies “You mean when you’re all grown up sweetie” Danni corrects her son softly and he nods at her. 

There was a knock on the door “Come in” Danni called not bothering to get up off the sofa. “Hello my child and congratulations on your engagement and the baby” Athenodora greeted sitting beside Danni and wrapping an arm around her for a quick hug. Sulpicia sat on Danni’s other side and gave her a quick hug too “Hello my dear. How are you feeling today?” “Temperature wise I’m fine, although both the baby and I are thirsty” Danni replied getting up “Sit back down. I can sort getting you and the baby a drink” Athenodora said getting up and walking to the door. “Guards!” She shouted and Afton appeared moments later “Yes mil lady” “Please bring Danni some juice and blood bags, her and the baby are thirsty” She instructed “Of course I’ll be right back” He bowed and made his way to the kitchen.

“That is a beautiful ring” Athenodora said “What did you expect from Demetri?” Sulpicia said when they saw the sapphire and diamond engagement ring.

“Afton” Caius called as he passed the throne room “Why was my wife shouting for a guard?” “Danni and the baby are thirsty and the wives don’t want Danni getting up to get the drinks, so I have been asked to do so” He answered “Well don’t keep them waiting” Caius said sternly. Demetri couldn’t help smiling, feeling amused that the wives are making sure Danni is being catered for in his absence, the way they are on a daily basis by the guards.

Afton returned with a few blood bags, a carton of orange juice and a glass “Can I get you anything else?” He asked “No thank you. You are dismissed” Sulpicia said waving her hand to dismiss him and he left the room.

“So baby names. What have you got so far?” Athenodora asked. “We haven’t actually discussed baby names, in fact we haven’t done much to prepare for our son’s arrival” Danni replied quietly. “You have less than two weeks left child. Come on bring your laptop, we have work to do” Athenodora said helping Danni off the sofa. Sulpicia picked up the drinks and followed her sister and Danni out of the room knowing exactly where they were going.

The wives and Danni entered the throne room, again surprising the Kings and the guards. “Demetri, you are needed for a meeting in Caius’ study. You too my dear. Now come along” Athenodora said looking at Caius, leading Danni out of the throne room and down the hall to his study. “Come on Demetri, you heard my wife we are being summoned” Caius said as he crossed the room to leave “Yes master” He replied bowing his head and following Caius out of the room. “What is that about my dear?” Aro asked his wife “Athenodora just learnt they haven’t picked a name for their son nor have they prepared much for his arrival. So Athenodora is taking charge” Sulpicia replied, amusement clear in her voice “Oh my, that will be an interesting chat” Aro sounded amused too. “They’re first-time parents they’ll work it out, I’m sure. After all, finding out Danni was pregnant was a shock for everyone” Marcus said sympathetically.

“What’s the meaning of this my love?” Caius asked once inside his study “Well my dear our grandson is due in less than two weeks and they have not chosen a name nor have they prepared much for his arrival. This just won’t do” “Grandson?” Danni mouthed to Demetri, who shrugged looking a little shocked too. “Ok, but they do still have time and I’m sure they’ll sort things out. Danni please take a seat” Caius said and she did so nodding. “I have been thinking about names but we just haven’t spoken about them” Danni said quietly “Really cara mia?” Demetri asked coming to stand beside Danni, she looked up at him nodding. “Take a seat Demetri” Caius said smiling as he and Athenodora sat down on the sofa opposite Danni as Demetri sat down beside her.

“What names were you thinking of?” Caius asked “I know what last name he will have, Volturi” She said smiling and squeezing Demetri’s hand. “Not Swan?” Demetri asked “No, he’s your son and you’re a Volturi” He nods smiling at her “Ok, but he still needs a first name” He added “I have some ideas, Theo – it means God’s present, Xander – Defender of man or Nicolai – People’s triumph. What do you think?” She asked the three vampires “They’re all Greek names” Demetri replied surprised at her suggestions. “I know that. I looked up Greek boy names on google. I wanted our son to have a Greek name like his dad” Danni responded and Demetri smiled at her lovingly. “I think that is a wonderful thing to do child. To honour Demetri’s heritage that way” Athenodora adds smiling. “Thank you, I thought so too. We haven’t got to pick one right now, have a think and we can decide later” Danni adds smiling to Demetri. “Danni do you know what kind of crib you would like for the baby? We can go shopping for stuff or we can order it online, whichever you prefer?” Demetri asked “I think we should look at stuff online and go from there. I do know that I’d like to keep a baby book for him” She replied “A baby book, what’s that?” He asked curious “It’s a book you keep that tracks your pregnancy and the first five years of the child’s life. I’ll google one later and show you” She replied and Demetri nodded, he looked up to see Caius smiling at them. “This worked out well my love” Caius whispered to Athenodora “The baby will need his own room as he grows up, is there one near them, my love?” Athenodora asked Caius “Yes, I think there is one opposite their room, if not we can put one in as there is space up there” He replied and she smiled back at him nodding.

Later that night Danni and Demetri are cuddling on sofa watching a film “Sorry if you felt put on the spot earlier babe. Athenodora asked about baby names and when I said we hadn’t spoke about them the next thing I knew she was summoning you to Caius’ study” She looked up at him “No need to apologise cara, it was a bit of a surprise but it was nice to talk about it. I’m just sorry I didn’t bring up the topic sooner” He replied looking down at her, kissing her. “Me too. Let’s discuss stuff now then. What do you really think about the baby names I suggested?” “I like the name Nicolai” He responds “Nicolai Volturi it is then” She smiles kissing him. Danni opens her laptop and shows Demetri the different baby books that they can get and they choose one with a baby jungle animal theme.

The following morning Demetri and Danni went shopping to buy stuff for the baby, they picked out a beautiful wooden crib, a wooden rocking chair and a changing table that they had delivered to the castle. They also bought a selection of baby clothes, bottles, toys, nappies and a bottle steriliser. “I must admit this feels really weird buying all this baby stuff. I feel like a real grown up” Danni said laughing to Demetri “If I’m being honest, I never thought I’d be doing this myself either and you are a grown-up” He replied kissing her forehead. “I love you Dem” “I love you too.”

Demetri, Felix and the twins were called into the throne room “We need the four of you to travel to Forks and track some newborns that are starting to draw attention to themselves” Aro informed them. “You are to observe them and make a decision regarding their punishment as my thoughts are likely being watched by Alice” He continued. “Demetri do not worry about Danni, we will look after her in your absence and you should be back in plenty of time before your son is born” Caius added. “One more thing do not think about Danni or the baby when around the Cullens, should your paths cross. They do not need to know anything about her seeing as they have removed her from her family’s life” Marcus advised. “Of course master” The guards reply nodding. “I understand that may be harder for you Demetri, but please remember this is for the best” Marcus spoke quietly. “I understand master” The guards bowed their heads and left the throne room. Demetri said goodbye to Danni and met the other three guards at the castle doors.

The four guards arrived in Seattle and observed the newborns “They’ve already drawn too much attention” Demetri said “So has our in action, others may start to question the Volturi’s effectiveness” Felix adds “Let them” Jane responds; Felix turns and starts to walk away from the other three vampires “Maybe we should consult with Aro” Felix continues before falling to the ground in pain; Demetri and Alec smirking at the sight before them “Aro’s decisions are being watched, we must decide” Jane replied, turning to face the back of Felix “Then decide sister, it’s time” Alec added, placing a hand on his sister’s shoulder. Jane turns back around looking down at the newborns, smiling “We either let them do what they were created for or we end them. Decisions, decisions” She replies.

June 13th 2006 – The day of the Cullens’ confrontation with the newborn army.

Demetri text Danni to check in and see how she was doing without him.

Good morning darling, hope you slept well. How you are you and my son doing? Xx

Good morning babe, didn’t sleep too good, but I’m ok. Me and your son are doing great but I am missing you so much xx

Sorry to hear you didn’t sleep much, try and nap during the day if you can. I miss you too. Love you xx

I will and I love you too xx

The four elite guards arrived at the site of the confrontation as the newborn’s dismembered bodies were being burnt on the bonfire “I’ve never seen a coven escape an attack of this magnitude intact before, impressive” Jane said to the Cullens “We were just lucky I guess” Carlisle responds “I doubt that” Jane replies “Looks like we missed an entertaining fight” Alec adds “Yes, it’s not often we are rendered unnecessary” Jane comments “If you had arrived half an hour ago you would have fulfilled your purpose” Edward adds “Pity” Jane replies “You missed one” She continues, looking over at the small girl behind the Cullens. “We offered her asylum in exchange for her surrender” Carlisle states and Jasper moves to stand beside Bree “That wasn’t yours to offer” Jane says smirking looking at Bree as she drops to the floor in pain. “Who created you? Why did you come?” Jane asks. “You don’t have to do that; she’ll tell you anything you need know” Esme says “I know” “I don’t know. Riley wouldn’t tell us. He said our thoughts weren’t safe” Bree answers. “Her name was Victoria, maybe you knew her” Edwards says looking at Jane “Edward, I’m sure if the Volturi had knowledge of Victoria they would have stopped her. Isn’t that right Jane?” Carlisle asks “Of course. Felix” Jane responds “We’ll take responsibility for her” Esme adds and Jane holds up her hand to stop Felix “Give her a chance” Carlisle says. “The Volturi don’t give second chances, bare that in mind. Caius will be interested to know she’s still human” Janes says looking over at Bella “The date is set” Bella replies “Take care of that Felix, I’d like to go home” Felix walks up to Bree and executes her before leaving with Jane, Alec and Demetri.

Danni was pleased that Demetri stayed in touch by text when he was away as she really missed him and worried about his safety.

Whilst Demetri was away Danni made a start on filling in the baby book and organising the baby clothes in their closet. Heidi came into the room to see her “Hi Danni I have something for you” She said handing Danni a small bag; inside were a selection of bibs, one with the phrase ‘Mommy’s little boy’ and some muslin cloths. “Gianna said these would be things you’ll need” “Thank you Heidi they’re lovely” She replied hugging her. Heidi then joined Danni on the sofa and they watched ‘Three Men a Baby’ “Wonder how Demetri will get on with the baby whilst you’re being changed” Heidi mused “He’ll probably get Felix and Alec to help so expect some of these shenanigans to happen” Danni replied pointing to the film, both girls started laughing. “That said Demi and I haven’t actually talked about me being changed” “I think you two should have that talk before the baby comes hunny, just in case as no one knows what will happen” Heidi replies softly and wraps one arm around her shoulder. Danni nodded and rested her head on Heidi’s shoulder.

Demetri, Felix and the twins arrive back at the castle and report to the throne room to debrief the Kings before heading to see Danni.

“I’ve missed you so much” Danni says hugging Demetri once he’s hung up his cloak “I’ve missed you too darling” He replies holding her close. “We’ve missed you too sweetie” Jane adds as her, Alec and Felix sit on the sofas ready to watch a film “Missed you guys too” Danni replies “How’s the baby doing?” Alec asks “He’s doing well, likes to move about a bit and he lets me know when he’s thirsty” Danni replies smiling.

That evening Demetri makes Danni Vanilla waffles, using her waffle maker and tops them with strawberries. “Oh wow. Look at this Chels Demetri’s gone all domesticated” Heidi says laughing “I am making Danni one of her favourite things to eat and then we’ll be spending the night together. No interruptions” He responds “Aw that’s lovely Dem” Chelsea says smiling “Danni’s one lucky girl” “Thanks Chels but I’m the lucky one” He replies and makes his way back to his room.

Once back in the room they cuddle up and watch North and South, drinking their blood bags. “Thank you for the waffles, they were yummy. Although the baby prefers blood, he is at least letting me enjoy some food now” Danni says smiling and kissed Demetri. “You’re welcome” He wraps an arm around her shoulder, gently moving her closer to him. “Dem can we talk about me being changed?” “Of course. What did you want to discuss?” He replied “Once the baby’s born what happens? Will you change me or do I get to remain human a little longer?” She asked “I will be the one to change you because you are mine mi amore. As to when you are changed that depends; if it’s a case of losing you once the baby’s here I won’t hesitate to change you Danni, I can’t lose you. I won’t lose you” He kissed her temple “I know Demi, I can’t and won’t lose you either” She lifted her head up and kissed his lips. “Caius said there’s no rush to change me as I’m here in the castle with you and they figured I’d want to get a little older, nearer to your physical age of 21…” Demetri nods as Danni continues “…But that was before I got pregnant. So, I was wondering would you have a problem if I was 16 forever?” Demetri smiles at her “No amore I wouldn’t have a problem with that; you’d be forever sweet 16” He kisses her hair “Are you asking me to change you once the baby’s here?” He asks “I was thinking about it, I mean it would be easier in some ways, although…” She paused “Although what?” He asked turning to face her and placing a hand to her cheek “I was thinking if I stayed human a bit longer…maybe we could have another baby…hopefully a girl. You know have a little family” She continued “Cara mia, I’d love that but I don’t know if I want to risk having another baby with you. What if the next pregnancy doesn’t go as well as this one, I could lose you. We could lose you” He moves his hand to her belly “I know, it was just a thought I had the other day. How nice it would be for you to have a daughter as well as a son, you know daddy’s little girl” She said quietly “Oh Danni…that is a nice thought really but I’m happy to just have one baby with you, as that is something I never thought would happen once I was changed. I would much rather have our son and you by my side immortal and 16 forever than risk losing you” He kissed her hair again “If you’re sure you’d be happy with just one child, then can you change me once our son is born so we don’t risk another pregnancy?” She looked into his eyes “I am sure and I will change you once he is here and I will look after him whilst you go through the transformation” He kissed her “I love you more than you’ll ever know mi amore” “I love you too Dem, so much.”

June 19th 2006 – Baby Volturi’s arrival

Dr Watts was in his guest room at the castle preparing himself for delivering a half-human half-vampire baby. Caius had given Dr Watts an extra room so he could deliver the baby somewhere other than Demetri and Danni’s shared room.

Demetri was fussing over Danni “Are you sure you’re ok? Do you need anything? Are you sure you want me to change you once Nicolai is here?” “Demi calm down everything will be fine. I don’t want anything except a cuddle from you. Yes, to being changed once he is born. I miss being with you” She smiled and winked at him “I miss being with you too” He whispered to her “I want to spend forever with you Dem” “And I with you” He took her into his arms holding her close until Dr Watts was ready for them.

A few hours later Danni was lying on a bed in a guest room waiting for her son to be delivered. Demetri was holding her hand whilst the doctor carried out the caesarean. Gianna was acting as the nurse as Demetri didn’t want any vampires in the room with them due to the blood. “Dem you can wait outside if you need to, please don’t make yourself uncomfortable” She squeezes his hand a little “Danni I’m fine and there is nowhere else I would rather be right now” Demetri kisses her forehead “I love you” “I love you too Dem.” The moment is cut short when they hear the soft cries of their newborn son. “Congratulations it’s a healthy baby boy. Who would like to hold him first?” Dr Watts asks “Hand him to Danni please for a cuddle before I change I her” Demetri says smiling. “Hey little one, I’m your mommy and I love you very much. Be a good boy for daddy over the next few days” She kisses his head “Mmm I love the new baby smell” She continues, Demetri smiling wide at the sight of Danni and his son ‘My two-favourite people in the whole world’ he thinks to himself.

Five minutes later Gianna takes the baby from Danni and goes into the bathroom to clean him up. “Danni has come through this pregnancy really well. She is all stitched up and she’ll have a very neat scar” Dr Watts says to Demetri “Thank you for everything Dr Watts. I really appreciate it” Demetri says shaking his hand. “Yes, thank you doctor” Danni says smiling at him. “I’ll leave you now. I have given Danni some more morphine for the pain following the caesarean” Dr Watts says before leaving the room.

Gianna comes out of the bathroom with Nicolai all cleaned up and in a simple pale blue Babygro “Congratulations you two he’s gorgeous” She says smiling “Here you go, support his head with your arm” She continues as she places Nicolai into Demetri’s arms. Demetri looks down at his son and smiles “Hello son, I’m your daddy and I’m very happy to meet you” He leans down and kisses his son’s head “He’s gorgeous cara mia” He says to Danni smiling before leaning down to kiss her. “I love you both so much” She replies “We love you too Danni” “Look after him for the next few days Dem” Danni’s eyes begin filling with tears “Of course, I will cara” He responded and kissed her hair.

There was a knock on the door “Hello Demetri, Athenodora and I wanted to see how you, Danni and the baby were doing” Caius says entering the room. “We’re all doing ok. I’d like to introduce you both to our son Nicolai Volturi” Demetri says to Caius and Athenodora smiling. “Congratulations my child he’s gorgeous” Athenodora says looking at Nicolai in Demetri’s arms. “Thank you Athenodora. Would you like to hold him?” Danni asks “Yes please, if Demetri doesn’t mind parting with him” “Here mi’ lady you need to support his head with your arm” Demetri instructs politely. “How are you feeling Danni?” Caius asks “I’m ok thank you. Demetri is going to change me later today so we don’t risk another pregnancy, he is worried in case another pregnancy doesn’t go as well as this one did” She replies “That’s understandable child” Caius responds “He doesn’t want to lose you and nor do we” He finishes stroking her hair gently. He really had come to care for her as though she was his daughter. “Caius come look at our grandson. He’s gorgeous” He nods walking to stand beside his wife and looking down at Nicolai smiling “Hello little one”.

“We’ll leave you now so you can prepare and don’t worry child we’ll help Demetri with Nicolai during your transformation” Athenodora says reassuringly, after about half an hour “Gianna will you hold Nicolai whilst Demetri turns Danni?” Caius asks, Gianna nods taking him from Athenodora and walking into the bathroom to give Demetri and Danni some privacy as Caius and Athenodora leave the room.

Demetri climbed on the bed carefully beside Danni and wrapped his arm around her “I just want to hold you once more before I turn you. I’m going to miss hearing your heartbeat when I hold you and when you sleep bedside me. I’m also going to miss your warmth. I love you so much Danni.” “I love you too” Danni responds, he unwraps his arm from her and positions himself so he is hovering above her, leaning down he kisses her neck before biting her, letting his venom flow through her system. He then licks the wound to close it, leaving his mark there. “I’ll see you in a few days mi amore” He kisses her lips and rests his forehead against hers.

Demetri calls out for Gianna “Gianna you can come out now” “Here take him and show off your son to everyone, I will go to your room and get a change of clothes for Danni” She replies with a smile and he nods “Thank you Gianna.”  

Demetri exits the room to see Felix, Heidi and Chelsea outside in the corridor “I’d like you to meet my son Nicolai Volturi” Demetri says proudly. “Aww he’s gorgeous Dem” Heidi says as Demetri smiles down at his son full of pride. “Congratulations Demetri. How’s Danni?” Chelsea asks “Danni is great. Dr Watts said she came through the pregnancy well. She is currently going through her transformation” He replies “Chelsea, Heidi will you help Gianna change Danni’s clothes please? She has gone to get an outfit from our room” “Of course we will” Heidi responds smiling.

Demetri and Felix make their way to the throne room so Demetri can introduce his son to the others whilst the girls change Danni. “Afternoon my dear boy” Aro says smiling “I hear congratulations are in order” He adds. “Afternoon masters. Thank you. I would like to introduce you to my son Nicolai Volturi” He says to Aro and Marcus “Congratulations Demetri” Marcus says smiling. The twins walk over to them excited to meet the baby “Congratulations Demetri” Alec says “Congratulations. He’s so cute” Jane says smiling at Nicolai “Thank you” “How’s Danni doing?” Marcus asks “Danni is great. Dr Watts said she came through the pregnancy well. She is currently going through her transformation. Heidi and Chelsea are assisting Gianna to change Danni’s clothes” Marcus smiles and nods in response.

“Can I hold him please Demetri” Jane asks and Demetri hands her the baby, not bothering to explain how to hold him as she used to hold the immortal children they used to execute. “Aww listen to his little heartbeat and he feels so warm to hold” She smiles holding him closer to her chest and Demetri nods. “We know that he has a few human traits from Danni, but I wonder what vampire traits he will inherit from you D” Felix says “Me too Fe” He replies.

“Brother” Marcus says quietly and holds out his hand to Aro, showing Aro the new ties he sees forming between Jane and Nicolai. Aro nods but says nothing to the vampires in the room. “We’ll wait and see what happens” He says to Marcus too low for the others to hear, Marcus nods in agreement.

Demetri took Nicolai back to the guest room along with Felix. “Hi Dem, Danni is ready. I didn’t want to leave her on her own. Are you going to move her back to your shared room?” Heidi asks “Thank you Heidi for changing her clothes she looks beautiful. Yes, I want her with me in our room. Fe would you mind picking Danni up and bringing her back to our room please?” “Not at all D. Do you want me to move her now?” He asks and Demetri nods. Felix picks up Danni carefully and carries her back to her and Demetri’s room and gently lays her down on the bed. Demetri thanks his friend as he takes a seat on the sofa in front of the fireplace and cuddles his son close to his chest placing a kiss to his temple. “How are you doing D?” Felix asks “I’m ok. I just can’t believe how much my life has changed in the last three months. I met my mate, fell in love, got engaged and had a baby with her” Felix nods in agreement “Yea who would have thought that one little human would have changed your life the way she has. Honestly though she’s had an effect on all our lives” “That she has. Sometimes I find myself thinking how I ever got through the last thousand years without her. I can’t wait for her to wake up as an immortal so we can really start our eternity together” Demetri says with a big smile on his face.

A little while later there’s a soft knock on the door “Hi Demetri, Felix. I’ve brought a bottle up for Nicolai as I thought he may be thirsty” Gianna says handing Demetri a bottle of formula. “Thank you Gianna” “No worries just let me know if you need any help with him. Before you give him that I’ll just get you a bib from the closet” Gianna says smiling “Gianna I have no idea how to feed him, please can you help me?” Demetri asks feeling a little helpless “Of course I can” She puts the bib around Nicolai’s neck before instructing Demetri on how to feed his son. “So you are holding him correctly already so you just place the bottle in his mouth and tilt the bottle up slightly” Demetri nods “When he has had enough you’ll know because the bottle will either be empty or he’ll stop drinking. Then you sit him up slightly holding his neck gently at the front and rub/pat his back gently to wind him” Demetri looks confused “I’ll stay and show you what to do when we get to that point” Gianna continues and sits beside Demetri on the sofa. “Thank you. I appreciate your help” Demetri says. “Anytime. I said to Danni that I’d help you. Being human has its advantages when it comes to babies and children. I’ll also show you how to change his nappy later too” Demetri nods smiling grateful for Gianna’s help and advice. He decided that he would ask the Kings to turn her as a thank you for helping him and because she was best friends with Danni.

Danni woke the next day to find Alec reading on the sofa “Good morning, what do you fancy for breakfast?” “Not sure, let’s go to the kitchen” She replied. Danni checked her phone to see a text from Demetri

Good morning Darling, hope you slept well. Hope you have a good day. Love you, Demi xx

Morning Babe, I slept ok, although not as good as when you’re beside me. Hope you have a good day tracking. Love you too, Danni xx

Danni and Alec made their way to the kitchen to find Gianna making bacon and eggs “Would you like some?” “Yes please Gianna, thank you” “What have you got planned for today?” Gianna asked “Reading in the garden, followed by movies” Alec replied smiling.

The following afternoon Demetri came home and made his way to his and Danni’s room “Danni?” “On the balcony” He crossed the room and stepped onto the balcony to see Danni lying on a blanket in a blue bikini sunbathing. He removed his cloak, jacket, shirt and shoes and laid down beside her “You know you’ll get a better tan if you take your trousers off” She says smiling, he laughed at this “I best remove them then” “Yes, you better” He removed his trousers and socks and laid back down beside her “Better?” “Much” She replied rolling onto her side to kiss his cheek. “I missed you” “I missed you too cara” He kissed her lips soundly. “I’ll be back in a sec” Danni said getting up and Demetri nodded “I’ll be here waiting for you.”

A few minutes later Danni walked out of the closet wearing the mid blue with pink flowers baby doll set and made her way back to the balcony and sat on Demetri’s lap so she was straddling him. He opened his eyes and smiled “I knew you’d look great in that when I bought it” “Thank you again, it fits nicely” “Yes it does” He licked his lips and sat up, wrapping his arms around her “I want you amore. No, I need you” He whispered kissing her hair, inhaling her scent. He lifts himself up slightly and with one hand and starts to shimmy out of his boxers. Danni swings her leg to the side so she’s sitting beside him and removes her shorts and then moved so she was straddling him again.

Demetri’s hands trail up her body under her top and taking both breasts in his hands, he massages them gently, his thumbs brushing the nipples lightly. A sigh falls from Danni’s lips involuntarily and her head falls back as Demetri kisses the front of her neck, sucking her neck slightly before his teeth graze over her pulse point.

Danni rises up onto her knees, her hands on Demetri’s shoulders and gently lowers herself onto his erect cock, his hands move to her hips as he begins to lift her off of him before lowering her back down over his hard length “I love you” She whispers and his hands trail up her sides taking her top with them and throwing it aside. He places his hands on her back holding her against him, before leaning her back slightly, his head dipped down to kiss her breasts and he took a nipple into his mouth. Her breath catches in her throat “Oh god” He switches breasts taking her nipple between his teeth whilst he rolls her other nipple between his thumb and forefinger. She lifts herself off him almost completely before sinking back down on him hard. “Fuck baby” He growls moving his hands to her hips stilling her for a moment and pulls out of her only to thrust up into her hard “Fuck Dem” She cries out as he hits a new spot inside her, a knot forming in her abdomen. As he pulls out and thrusts up into her, she grinds down against him, her being filled deeply with every thrust. He crashes his lips to hers and she bites his lower lip and he opens his mouth allowing her to deepen the kiss, their tongues moving against each other. He’s chasing his own release as he can tell she’s getting close to hers “Bite me…please” She begged grinding against him again. He lifted his head and gently moved her head to the side placing a kiss against her neck, he then bit her taking a few gulps of her blood before licking the wound shut with his venom. Danni felt the knot break the moment he bit her. “Oh. Dem. Yes” She said between breaths, her head falling onto his shoulder.  His release followed “Fuck Danni” She could feel him still moving inside her filling her with his seed “Don’t stop baby. Please don’t stop” She begged him softly and she felt him nod then kiss her neck where he bit her moments ago.

Still inside her he picked her up and carried her to their bed and laid her down, resting his forehead to hers “You my darling are amazing” He kissed her lips “You are amazing too babe.” He pulled out of her, lifting one of her legs over his shoulder and slid back inside her “Ahh, that feels so...” Another slow deep thrust “…Good” She finished and he smiled into the next kiss. Demetri slowed his rhythm taking his time to make love to her despite her pleas for him to go faster. He wanted to take his time with her, to show her how much he loved her, worshipped her. Danni had one hand on his shoulder the other in his hair, tugging slightly “I’m so close…please Demi” One of his hands reached down between them and he began flicking and pinching her clit and she arched into him “Oh, ahh…Dem” He loved hearing and seeing her reaction knowing he was he only one who could please her this way. She grinded down on his hand kissing his neck “Mine” He growled low in her ear as Danni’s orgasm hit her like a tidal wave “Always” She replied, her walls clamping down around him bringing him to his climax. He removed her leg from his shoulder and continued to move within her, riding out their orgasms together. “Will it always be this…” She trailed off, still feeling a little breathless. “Once you’re immortal, it’ll be even better. I won’t need to be so gentle…not that I’d ever hurt you, it’s just …you’ll be less fragile” He replied “Less fragile but still yours” She said “Yes mi amore, you’ll always be mine as I’ll always be yours” He responded “Mine” She said smiling against his neck “Always.”

A few days later Danni was walking to reception to see Gianna when she saw two of the lower guards crawling on the floor “Everything ok gentlemen?” She smiled at them “It appears there’s a mouse in the castle and Gianna doesn’t like them” Says the blonde guard “We’re trying to see if we can find it and catch it” Says the brunette guard. “Ok then, have fun with that” Danni replies and continues to reception to see her friend.

Throughout the day Danni heard the vampires talking about hearing mice in the castle but not actually finding any. What Danni didn’t expect when she returned to her room was to find Demetri searching for something, the furniture pulled away from the walls “Let me guess you can hear mice too?” She asked “Yes, but I’m not too bothered by them but I wasn’t sure if you’d appreciate one running around” “Never really thought about it” She replied walking up to him and wrapping her arms around him.

Demetri was on guard duty that night so Danni was alone in their room when she was suddenly woken up with the overwhelming urge to be sick, running to the bathroom and sitting in front of the toilet she began vomiting. Once she was done, she rested her head on the seat still feeling nauseous. When she had finally emptied the remaining contents of her stomach she flushed the toilet, brushed her teeth and climbed back in bed hoping she’d feel better in the morning.

Demetri came back from guard duty the following morning carrying a tray with a glass of orange juice and a plate of toast with bacon and eggs. He set the tray down on the coffee table and made his way over to Danni “Good morning cara mia” He said kissing her forehead “Morning babe” She smiled back sleepily. “I’ve bought you breakfast” He says as he goes to get the tray from the coffee table. As soon as the smell hits Danni’s nose the nauseous feeling comes flooding back and she rushes to the toilet to throw up again. Demetri sets the tray down on the bed and follows Danni into the bathroom and holds back her hair just in time and asks “Are you ok Danni? Can I do anything?” “I don’t feel well and the smell of breakfast isn’t helping…sorry” She apologised low “Don’t apologise Danni, I’ll take the tray back to the kitchen” He reaches for a scrunchie and ties her hair back and then leaves the room, making his way back to the kitchen.

“Didn’t want her breakfast?” Heidi asks as he enters the kitchen “No, she isn’t feeling well. She’s throwing up as we speak” He replied “Why aren’t you with her?” Chelsea questions concerned “Because the smell of this…” He puts the tray of food on the table “…is making her feel worse so I said I’d return the tray to the kitchen. I am going back to her now” He says turning to leave “Wait. Get her to try these, they’ll help with the nausea” Gianna says passing him a pack of ginger nut biscuits. “Thank you, Gianna” He replied smiling.

Demetri returned to their room to find Danni still sitting on the bathroom floor head resting on the toilet seat “Gianna said to try these…they help with nausea” She looked up at him but before she could say anything she threw up again “Sorry Dem” “You don’t need to apologise Danni you’re ill, it happens with humans” He sat beside her and gently rubbed her back.

Danni couldn’t keep any food down including the ginger biscuits, in fact the smell of most foods made her feel worse, she could just about keep water down. After two days of this Demetri got quite worried but did the best he could to look after her, this meant mainly holding her close as his cool temperature was cooling her down.

Demetri had been back from his last mission for about a week when he had to leave again, this time only for a day, two at the most. “I feel bad for having to leave you when you’re ill” He said holding her close. “I’ll be fine don’t worry, you’ll be back in no time” She kissed him and wrapped her arms around him “I’ll miss you” “I’ll miss you too cara” He gave her one last kiss and then left to meet Felix and Jane at the front of the castle.

Later that morning Danni made her way to the kitchen, luckily Gianna was at her desk so Danni wouldn’t be bothered by the smell of food. Sitting at the table was Santiago, Heidi, Chelsea and Alec “You don’t look too good” Heidi said concerned “Do we need to take you to a doctor?” Chelsea asked “No doctor, I’m fine” She replied sounding tired and setting down a glass of water on the table. The vampires were drinking glasses of blood and Santiago poured himself a fresh glass and set it beside Danni’s glass. They were all talking about the mice problem as the vampires could hear the small heartbeats but still couldn’t find them. Heidi then told them about the upcoming ‘tourist events’ and the new ‘contest’ she made to catch the next group.

Danni was so tired and distracted she didn’t notice she had picked up Santiago’s glass of blood. She took a sip and heard the vampires gasp. “Danni you’re drinking blood” Alec sounded concerned and placed a hand on her shoulder “Hmm, oh…yea, it doesn’t taste that bad” Danni says quietly and continued to drink the glass of blood. Santiago refilled the glass once it was empty. “Shh” Santiago says and everyone stops talking “What is it?” Alec asks “I can hear a heartbeat” He replies “Hello, human” Danni says tapping Santiago on the arm and pointing to herself, this caused the other vampires to chuckle “Let me rephrase, I hear a second heartbeat” He responds “It-It’s coming from Danni” He continues as he leans down and rests his head on Danni’s stomach “Let me hear” Heidi says pushing Santiago away and placing her head near Danni’s stomach. “Oh my god Danni…you’re pregnant” “What? No, it’s not possible” Danni replies shocked “Vampires can’t have children” She added “True but humans can” Chelsea says smirking “I know but I’ve only been with Demi…and again vampires can’t have children” Danni says getting teary. “Come on let’s go see the masters, they’ll know what to do” Heidi says softly and taking Danni’s hand in hers as she leads her to the throne room.

“Good morning my dears. How are feeling Danni, better I hope?” Aro asks “That’s why we are here master” Heidi holds out her hand to show Aro the recent events in the kitchen. “Oh my” Aro says looking at Danni. “What is it? What’s wrong?” Caius asks getting up from his throne to stand beside Danni placing a hand on the small of her back. “It would seem that Danni is pregnant and our dear Demetri is the father” Aro replies smiling “That is why Danni has been ill recently, why she’s not been able to keep food down. However, she has drunk two glasses of blood in the kitchen and seemed to have enjoyed it” Aro adds “Really?” Caius asks shocked, looking at Danni “Originally I picked up the wrong glass due to being tired and distracted but after trying some, I liked it and finished the glass. Santiago gave me second glass which I also drank. I do feel a bit better now” She said looking at Caius. “Congratulations Danni” Aro says smiling and wrapping her in a gentle hug. “Heidi please go to the hospital and see your doctor friend; we will need blood bags for Danni and the baby” Aro says to Heidi “Of course master. Maybe I should take Danni with me, that way he can check her over?” Heidi replies. “No” Caius says voice raised slightly “Get the doctor to come here and see her and get him to bring the blood bags too. I am taking Danni back to her room and will be there for the remainder of the day” With that he picks her up gently and carries her back to her and Demetri’s shared room.

Two hours later Heidi knocks on the door “I have bought Dr Watts with me. He is going to check you over and the blood bags are in the kitchen except for these two, I figured you may need them” “Thank you for coming Doctor” Danni says. “Please do this home pregnancy test for me” Dr Watts says handing a box to Danni. Ten minutes later Danni comes out of the bathroom “The tests are positive. I used both tests to be sure” She said as she handed him the tests “That’s quite all right Danni. Lay on the bed please and pull your top up. This may be a bit cold. Congratulations by the way” He rubs some gel on her stomach and proceeds to carry out a sonogram “How strange” Dr Watts says looking worried. “What’s wrong?” Caius asks “Well, Heidi said that Danni is pregnant but would not be too far along but the sonogram says otherwise” “This is an unusual situation, as you know the baby’s father is a vampire. Could that be a factor?” Caius asks trying to stay calm “I am well aware of the fact that the baby’s father is a vampire Caius and yes that could account for the accelerated growth of the baby.”

Danni wiped the gel off her stomach and climbed off the bed “You have a baby bump showing my dear” Dr Watts says looking at Danni as he hands her a set of sonogram pictures “Scan pictures of your baby. One more thing, Danni will require a caesarean. We should pencil in a date now. How long do you think you’ve been pregnant?” He asks “I’d been sick for about 3- 4 days and I last had sex a few days before then” Danni answered staring at the sonogram pictures “Well going by that information and the sonogram Danni should be ready to give birth in about 10 days, 2 weeks at most” Dr Watts replied looking at Caius “That’s a bit quick doc” Danni said now sitting on the floor shocked. Caius and Heidi joined her “Demetri. Wh-what is he going to think? What is he going to say about this?” She asks looking worried “As long as you are ok, he’ll be fine” Caius says wrapping an arm around her “Nothing is going to happen to you my child, I promise” He adds.

“If it is ok with you Caius I will pop by every few days to check on Danni?” Dr Watts asked “Yes that’s fine, but you will stay here from day 10 onwards in case you are needed” Caius responds “Of course” Dr Watts nods.

Heidi and Dr Watts left the room “You will need to make sure she stays hydrated Heidi, especially if the baby is only letting her keep down the blood bags. If you can, however, please try to get her to drink fresh orange juice too as she will need the vitamins and try a little food every now and then” Dr Watts advised “Of course Doctor, I’ll pass this information on and we will do our best” Heidi replied.

Caius picked Danni up off the floor and carried her to the sofa and covered her with a blanket as she started to shiver. “Let’s watch Beauty and the Beast, I hear it’s your favourite” He says trying to work out how use the TV. “Ok, here let me” Danni says taking the remote and showing him how to work it. Caius got comfortable beside Danni and opened the first blood bag “Here drink this” He wrapped his arm around her and adjusted the blanket so it covered them both. “Thank you Caius for staying with me, I know you must have other things to do” “Not a problem child, I can translate the books another time, I have plenty of it” He said smiling. Danni nodded and drank her blood bag “You know I never thought blood would taste so nice. Then again, I never thought I’d be drinking blood as a human” She says, Caius laughs and squeezes her arm gently “It’s ok, no one will judge you here” He hands her the second blood bag as soon as she finishes the first one. “That doctor knows about you guys and he’s still human?” She asks “Yes, he knows about us and he supplies us with blood bags when needed and looks after the human secretaries when they’re unwell. He is a friend of Heidi’s and will be turned soon. We gave him time to get his affairs in order as he has been a great help to us and has kept our secret.”

They continue to watch films until Danni falls asleep, but Caius doesn’t put her in the bed, instead he just lays her head in his lap and strokes her hair checking her pulse every few hours.

The following afternoon Demetri returns to the castle and heads straight to see Danni. Felix stopping by the throne room to update Aro. Demetri enters his and Danni’s room to see her curled up beside Caius watching the TV and drinking from a blood bag “Afternoon Demetri” Caius says with a smile “Afternoon master” He replies walking to the sofa and sitting beside Danni “Are you ok? Why are you drinking blood mi amore?” Concern clear in his ruby eyes “Erm, well I” She’s unsure how to tell him. “I’m pregnant” She blurts out and Caius chuckles beside her. Demetri just stares at her, his mouth open in shock “But that’s not…are you sure?” He asks “Yes, I’m sure Demi. I’ve taken two pregnancy tests, both positive and had a sonogram done see” She points to the pictures on the coffee table “The doctor said I’ve got about two weeks left before I deliver. He’s coming tomorrow to check on me” “H-How?” Demetri asks “Well now Demetri at your age I would have thought you knew how babies were made” Caius says smirking “No, I know that Caius. I mean how did you find out, it’s not like we knew this was possible?” He replied holding the sonogram pictures. “Well, I found out by accident. I was in the kitchen and was having a conversation with Santiago, Alec, Chelsea and Heidi and I was tired and distracted and picked up Santiago’s glass of blood by mistake and drank some. It tasted good and I kept it down, he then said he could hear two heartbeats coming from me and when he put his head against my stomach, he heard the baby’s heartbeat. Heidi heard it too. Heidi and I went to see the masters and well Caius has been here ever since. Dr Watts left after confirming I’m pregnant” She explained “Thank you for staying with her master. I appreciate you taking the time to do so in my absence” Demetri said bowing his head and holding out his hand for Caius to shake, which he did “It was my pleasure Demetri. I’m going to leave you two alone to talk” Caius said leaving the room. “Thank you” They both replied together.

Danni stood and made her way to the bathroom, Demetri now noticing the slight swelling of Danni’s stomach. He followed her into the bathroom and wrapped him arms around her from behind resting his hands on her bump “You look so beautiful darling” He spoke softly in her ear and she smiled at him as they stood in front of the mirror “How do you feel about having a baby so young? I mean I-I didn’t know this was even possible. I’m sorry, I don’t know what will happen” She turned around in his arms looking up into his eyes “I admit I was shocked at first but I’m happy. I get to have a baby with the man I love” She cups his face in her hands “Something I didn’t think would ever happen, seeing as you’re a vampire. I know it’s going to be difficult and it will be an accelerated pregnancy compared to a human pregnancy but…as long as I have you by my side, I know I’ll be fine” She gave him a peck on the lips “Are you ok with this?” She asks quietly “I was shocked too when you told me but I’m happy too as you’re giving me something I didn’t get to have in my human life and never thought possible in this life. I get to have a child with you. You are my world Danni and I love you more than anything and I will always be by your side” He bent his head down and kissed her “I love you too” She replied resting her head on his chest.

The following morning Danni woke up in Demetri’s arms “Morning cara mia” He kissed her, tightening his hold slightly “Morning my love” She replied kissing him. “I’m going to get you and the baby something to drink. I’ll be right back” He kissed her forehead and left to go to kitchen.

“How’s Danni and the baby doing?” Felix asked as Demetri entered the kitchen “Danni’s doing great and Dr Watts is coming to see her today for a check-up” He replied “How’s Danni finding drinking blood?” Jane asked “She’s actually doing ok with that too. You should come see her when you’re off duty” Demetri said to Jane as he grabbed blood bags from the fridge along with a carton of orange juice for Danni. Alec had filled Felix and Jane in on the news of Danni being pregnant when they returned to the castle.

He came back to the room to find Danni lying on the sofa, her hands on her belly “How are you feeling?” He asked lifting her up slightly so he could lay behind her, her back against his chest and rested his hands on her stomach too. “A little warm and really thirsty” “Well I can help with both” He replies handing her a blood bag and placing a cold hand to her forehead and the other resting on her hip. “Whoa” Danni says suddenly “What’s wrong cara mia? Demetri asks “I felt a weird sensation in my belly, I think it’s just the baby” She replies “Dr Watts is here with Heidi” He says just as there is a knock on their door “Only us” Heidi says as they enter the room “How are you feeling today Danni?” Dr Watts asks “A little warm but ok” She replies “Lie on the bed for me, I’d like to have another look at the baby” Dr Watts says as he makes his way over to the bed. Demetri helps Danni up off the sofa and over to the bed. Once Danni is comfortable on the bed Dr Watts carries out another sonogram. Demetri sat beside her holding her hand, looking at the screen and smiled at hearing his baby’s heartbeat. “Nice healthy heartbeat and ten fingers and ten toes see” Dr Watts says pointing to the screen “Can you tell whether the baby is a boy or a girl?” Danni asks “I’ll have a look.” Demetri looks at Danni “You want to find out mi amore?” “Yes, especially as I won’t be pregnant for long and there’s so much to do before the baby arrives. If I had the usual nine months, I’d probably keep it as a surprise. You don’t mind finding out, do you?” She asked “Not at all darling” He responded kissing her forehead, amazed at being able to see his baby on the small screen. “Congratulations you’re having a boy” Dr Watts say looking at Danni and Demetri smiling. He prints out another set of pictures and hands them to Demetri. “A boy. We’re having a boy” Demetri smiled wide at Danni, kissing her hand “You’re ok having a boy then?” She asked laughing “Yes baby I’m very happy having a boy, although I would have been pleased either way” He said still smiling. “Congratulations to you both on having a boy” Heidi says smiling and gently hugged Danni.

Once Dr Watts and Heidi left the room Demetri stood from the bed and made his way to the bedroom door still holding the sonogram pictures and smiling wide “I’ll be back in a bit, I’ve got to go find the guys” He left the room and Danni smiled at how happy and excited her mate looked after finding out they were having a boy.

Demetri found Felix in the training room “Hey Felix! Look at this” He called out getting his friend’s attention “We’re having a boy” He handed Felix the sonogram picture “I am going to have a son” He continued smiling proudly “Congratulations D. A mini Demetri running around the castle. Do we really need that?” Felix replied smirking and Demetri smacked his arm “Hey!” Felix called out.

“Congratulations Demetri” A few guards called out who were in the room “Thank you” He replied still smiling wide.

He found Jane and Alec in the throne room when he stopped by to share the news with the three Kings “Masters, may I share some news with you?” He asked “Of course my dear boy” Aro replied smiling “Danni and I are going to have a son” He said smiling “Congratulations my dear boy” Aro said crossing the room and shaking his hand. “Congratulations Demetri” Marcus said smiling. “Yes, congratulations to you both. I trust Danni is doing well” Caius responded. “Thank you masters and yes Danni is doing great” Demetri replied still smiling proudly.

Jane and Alec followed Demetri back to his and Danni’s shared room “Demetri told us your news. Congratulations on having a boy” Jane said hugging Danni “It’s great news, but I really don’t think we need another Demetri in the castle” Alec said smiling, Demetri smacked the back of his head “Watch it” He warned, Jane and Danni laughed at them. The twins stayed for a while and the four of them watched some films including Cinderella as this had become a favourite of Jane’s.

Later that night Demetri held Danni in his arms as she slept ‘I can’t believe I’m going to be a dad. I’m going to have a son’ he thought to himself smiling, looking down at his beautiful mate. Danni was woken up by the baby moving about “Oh” She said rolling over “Quick, give me your hand Demi” She says placing his hand on her belly “What are you…” He was cut off when he felt his son kick his hand. Danni looked over to see shock then happiness wash over his face and the baby kicked again “Not sure he’s a fan of your cold hands though babe” She laughed “Oh he’s just saying hi to daddy, isn’t that right son” Demetri says to her belly and the baby kicks again “See daddy was right” He sounded a bit smug, he then proceeded to talk to his son quietly whilst Danni went back to sleep, telling him all about how daddy met mommy, how he’s looking forward to meeting him and how he will love and protect them both forever.

Danni and Demetri got dressed then got comfortable on the sofa and was just about to watch a film when the twins and Felix arrived “Knock knock” Alec said opening the door “Actually knocking works too Alec” Demetri says sighing. “Happy birthday sweetie” Jane says smiling, sitting beside Danni and hugging her “This is for you” She continued, handing Danni two small boxes wrapped in blue tissue paper. Danni opened the first box and saw a rose gold necklace with 3 stars in a vertical line. “Jane it’s beautiful” She opened the second box and found matching rose gold star earrings” She wraps arms around Jane for a hug “Thank you so much, I love them” Jane smiles at her “You’re welcome.” “Open mine next” Alec says excitedly handing Danni a big box wrapped in Disney princess paper. He sat on the coffee table so he could watch her open his present. Inside the box was a selection of art stuff; some canvas’, paints, pencils, colouring pencils and some adult colouring books. “Aww thank you Alec” Danni says leaning forward and giving him a hug. Lastly Felix hands her a gift wrapped in silver and white paper and inside is The Vampire Diaries book set and The Hunger Games book set. “You mentioned you had them when you were back in Forks and I thought it’d be nice for you to have them now you’re here” “Thanks Felix” Danni stands up and hugs his waist. Demetri couldn’t help smiling as he watched their friends give Danni her presents, pleased that they accepted her.

A few hours later Demetri turns off the TV and stands up holding out his hand to Danni “Come on we need to go the throne room the masters want to see you on your birthday” The four elite guards and Danni make their way to the throne room and Felix opened the doors and let Danni in first “Surprise!” comes from the multiple vampires in the room. “Oh my god” She says placing a hand on her chest surprised and looking around the room she notices the ‘Sweet 16 Birthday’ banners, the balloons and the two helium ‘Sweet 16’ balloons by the throne steps. Danni then noticed two long tables on the right side of the room; one table is divided in two by a birthday banner, one half has a birthday cake and a few plates of snacks and drinks for herself and Gianna and the other half has a few jugs and a selection of glasses. Danni doesn’t ask what’s in the jugs but guesses it’s blood for the vampires. The second table is full of colourfully wrapped boxes and gift bags.

“Happy birthday Danni and welcome to your surprise party” Aro says smiling. He walks towards her arms held out and then wraps his arms around her giving her a hug. “This is from Aro and myself” Sulpicia says as she comes to stand beside her husband and handing Danni a box. “Thank you” Danni says opening the box to see a gold Volturi crest necklace inside along with a pair of gold earrings with a small ruby in each. “Now you’re officially one of us my dear” “Thank you, it’s an honour to receive this whilst I’m still human” She says bowing her head to Aro, Sulpicia then wraps her arms around Danni. She steps back and shows Demetri the gift as he’s standing beside her. Marcus makes his way over to Danni and hands her a gift bag “This is for you my dear” She takes the bag and inside is a beautiful deep purple knee length dress “Thank you Marcus…” She says bowing her head “…It’s beautiful” Marcus steps closer and wraps an arm around her “You’re welcome” Next Caius and Athenodora come over “Happy birthday my child, this is from us” Caius says smiling as Danni opens their gift and there’s a selection of books inside; one on Italian Architecture, one on Greek Mythology and first edition copies of Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility. “These are great, thank you so much” She says still smiling and hugging both Caius and Athenodora. “Glad you like them child” Athenodora smiles at her.

Demetri takes the gifts and puts them on the table with the unopened gifts. Chelsea grabs Danni’s hand “Come on there’s a table full of gifts for you still to open” Danni looks down feeling a little embarrassed at the attention she’s receiving. Danni notices Demetri, Felix and some other vampires drinking and passing around glasses “It’s blood for us” Chelsea whispers to Danni who smiles and nods. Gianna hands Danni a glass of lemonade “For us. Happy birthday hunny” “Thank you Gianna. Did you do this?” Danni asks looking around the room. “It was Demetri’s idea. I bought the decorations and organised the cake as the only other human in the castle. Demetri spoke to the masters and got permission to have a little party for you” Danni looked over her shoulder when she felt Demetri’s arm wrap around her. “Thank you for doing this. Both of you” She says looking at Demetri and Gianna “You’re welcome” They reply together.

“Present time” Chelsea says excitedly “Yours is the first birthday celebrated in the castle in god only knows how long” Chelsea hands her a gift bag from under the gift table “Here open mine and Afton’s” “Calm down Chelsea” Demetri says laughing as Danni unties the bow on the bag to reveal a Jimmy Choo shoe box and inside is a pair of black strappy stilettos. “Oh my god! They’re gorgeous Chelsea” She says happily as she hugs her. “I thought they would go with the dress Marcus got you” “You coordinated?” Chelsea and Marcus nodded “Chelsea is better at this than me” He said honestly.

“Mine next” Gianna says handing her a gift bag; inside is a box with a wine glass with ‘Sweet 16’ in silver writing on it along with the first volume of Disney Twisted Tales box set. “Thank you Gianna” Danni says hugging her. “You’re welcome hunny.”

Heidi bought her the second volume of Disney Twisted tales “I coordinated with Gianna” “Thank you Heidi, they’re great” She says smiling and she hugs Heidi.

Corin hands her an envelope and inside is a Boux Avenue gift voucher for €50. “Thank you Corin.” Santiago hands her a box wrapped in blue paper “This is from me and Matt” Inside was a waffle maker “I hear you love waffles for breakfast half as much as you like pancakes” “Thank you Santiago, Matt. Gianna and I will have fun making waffles.”

“Here this is from me. I hear you’ve been borrowing Heidi’s or Jane’s” Renata says as Danni opens her gift to reveal a pair of hair straighteners. “Thank you Renata.”

“We don’t really know you that well but some of us got together and bought you some flowers and a few bottles of wine” Says one of the lower guards pointing to the 4 bouquets of flowers and the two bottles of wine on the table. Six other guards wave and smile at Danni “Thank you, the flowers are beautiful” She says smiling.

Josh came over next “Happy birthday Danni” Danni opens his gift to find Grimms’ book of fairy tales and Hans Christian Andersen’s book of fairy tales. “I remember you saying you loved to read them when you were younger. They’re what made you want to grow up to be a Princess and live in a castle” Josh said smiling. “Thank you Josh” Danni said smiling and giving Josh a hug. “Sorry about Demetri not being a prince” Felix says laughing and nudging Demetri “But at least you’re living in a castle” Jane says smiling “One out of two isn’t bad” Heidi adds laughing. Danni looks at Demetri “Sorry Dem” “Don’t be cara. I may not be a Prince but you’re my Princess and I’ll always treat you like one” He replied kissing her. “Aww, he’s gone soft” Chelsea says giggling. “Oh, leave him alone” Danni defends him smiling “Every little girl dreams of finding her Prince Charming when she grows up and I found mine in Demi” She says looking at him lovingly, wrapping her arms around his waist and placing a kiss on his lips. “Thank you mi amore” He replies smiling and holding her close.

“Danni, Gianna tells us that we need to sing to you whilst you make a wish and blow out your candles” Caius says as he lights the pink ‘1’ and ‘6’ candles on the cake. Danni nods and makes her wish whilst the vampires in the room sing Happy Birthday to her.

“She really has livened up the castle” Aro says to Marcus who was looking at the guards drinking their glasses of blood, laughing, joking and dancing to celebrate Danni’s birthday. Marcus nods in agreement.  

Caius taps Demetri on the shoulder “May I have this dance with the birthday girl?” “Of course Master” Demetri bows his head and places Danni’s hand in Caius.’ “Care to dance mi’ lady” He asks Athenodora who was dancing with Caius previously “Thank you my dear” She nods “She’s a beautiful girl Demetri, inside and out. Look after her” “Yes, she is. I’ll love and protect her forever mi’ lady” He replied.

Danni and Gianna are seated at the side of the room eating a slice of cake and talking when Demetri takes a seat beside Danni holding a plate with a slice of cake on. “I couldn’t eat another slice right now babe” Danni says looking at Demetri “Good because this slice is for me” He replies and takes a bite “Really? You’ve been drinking blood all afternoon” Danni questions. “I know but it looks delicious and I know that lemon cake is your favourite so I thought I’d have a small slice. For you” He doesn’t look repulsed by the taste due to having practiced his facial expressions when eating food with Danni out in public but she knows he probably doesn’t find the taste pleasant “Thank you” She smiled at him.

“Ah the things we do for love” Marcus muses as he watches Demetri eat a small slice of cake whilst talking with Danni and Gianna. “She’s good for him brother” Athenodora comments smiling “That she is my dear” Caius adds “It’s good to see him happy in his personal life as well as in his work” Marcus says smiling.

“Thank you to Demetri and Gianna for organising this party for me. Thank you all for coming and celebrating my birthday with me and for my lovely gifts, I really appreciate it. I feel thoroughly spoilt” Danni said to everyone “You’re very welcome” Comes the response from the vampires in the room.  

The party ends and Felix, the twins, Heidi, and Chelsea help Demetri and Danni carry her gifts back to their room. “Did you like your surprise?” Alec questions “I did thank you. I can’t believe you were able to keep it a secret and that so many of the guards turned up and bought gifts. They didn’t have to bring gifts” She replied “They came and bought you gifts Danni because they like you and you’re part of the family. It was also a very good way to spend the castle wide day off” Felix replied.

Demetri and Danni sit side by side on the sofa in front of the fireplace, the twins on the sofa to the left and Felix on the sofa to the right. “Let’s get comfy and put a movie on” Danni says and the four vampires agree. Whilst Demetri is finding a movie to watch Jane asks “Did you get anything from your mum or dad or Bella?” Danni shook her head “No, but I wasn’t expecting to” “Wait!” Alec sounded annoyed “Your family got you nothing for your 16th birthday?” He continued. “Yep, but like I said I was expecting anything” She sounded sad. “What’s wrong cara?” Demetri asks concerned “Nothing I’m fine” She cuddles into his side, tears slipping down her cheeks. “Has this got anything to do with you thinking you’d spend today alone?” He continued but Danni didn’t answer him, she just cuddled further into him, tears still falling. “She’s crying” Felix said to Demetri, too low for Danni to hear. Demetri nodded and wrapped his arms around her tighter “Sshh please don’t cry mi amore, not today. It’s your birthday” He soothes stroking her hair “I can’t help it…it isn’t fair, what they’ve done... I hate them” She said through her sobs “Who do you hate? What have they done?” Jane asked sounding upset “They-They told my family…” She paused trying to collect herself “…They said there was an accident…that I-I didn’t survive.” More tears fell and she hid her face in Demetri’s chest and she heard and felt the deep growl that came from him. It was breaking his undead heart to see her this way especially as it was her special day. “Are you talking about the Cullens?” Felix asked, she nodded and sat up wiping her eyes “Yes. Edward told my dad once they landed back in Forks that there’d been an accident and that I was dead.” Danni got off the sofa and went to her bedside table to collect the letter from Esme and the order of service. “They already had their ‘cover story’ sorted by the time they landed. They even held a memorial service for me. See” She handed them to Demetri as she sat back down beside him. He read the letter from Esme before passing it to Felix “I’ll kill him” Demetri growled. “He’s not worth it Dem” She said still crying and she cuddled into him. “None of them are. I’m just glad I have you…and my new friends and family here in the castle” Demetri, Felix and the twins smiled at this “You’ll always have us” Alec said. ‘They’ll pay for ruining her day’ Demetri thought to himself as he held her close, she was his entire world and he’d be damned if anyone hurt her and got away with it.

“I thought Bella would have stayed in touch, you know seeing as we’re both mated to vampires” She said quietly “But she cut me out of her life so quickly and after everything I did to help her after Edward left. I never got to say bye to my dad and now I’ll never see him again.” “I’m sorry Danni that’s my fault for not letting you go when you asked” He replied. “Don’t apologise Demi I don’t regret staying with you. I understand why you didn’t let me go. Edward didn’t have to kill me off. He’s the one to blame, always dictating what everyone does. He took away my chance to go home, my chance to introduce you to my dad” “You really don’t blame me?” He asked “No, how could I? You kept me here because you had waited so long to find me, kept me with you to ensure I was safe and so that you…we wouldn’t end up like poor Marcus. All you wanted was the chance to get to know your mate” He smiled at her “I really am lucky to have you Danni.” “I’m lucky to have you too Demi.”

“Sorry for upsetting you sweetie” Jane apologises “It’s ok, you weren’t to know, none of you were” “You should have told me about the letter Danni” “Why Dem? It wouldn’t have changed anything” “True but at least we could have had this conversation before now, that way you wouldn’t have been upset on your birthday” Danni doesn’t say anything, just places a kiss to his lips. Felix stands up and pointing to the twins says “Come on you two, let’s leave Danni and Demetri to spend the evening together” The twins nod getting up from the sofa “Goodnight we’ll see you both tomorrow” With that the three vampires leave the room.

Demetri adjusts his hold on Danni “Did you still want to watch a movie?” He asks “Not right now, I’d really like a shower” She replies getting up, Demetri nods “Join me” She whispers holding out her hand. He places his hand in hers and gets up and leads her to the bathroom. He turns the shower on and removes his shirt as Danni gets the shower gels and shampoo from the vanity cupboard. Danni turns around so her back is to Demetri and starts to undress “So you’ll share a bath with me and invite me to shower with you, but won’t actually let me see that beautiful body of yours” He says low in her ear “I-I’m sorry, it’s just…” “Sshh no need to be embarrassed mi amore, it’s just me” She nods and turns around and places her hands on his bare chest “Let me” He says reaching around her back and unclasping her bra letting it fall to the floor, his eyes travel from her eyes down her body and back up “Beautiful” He whispers against her lips and kisses her. Danni undoes his trousers and lets them fall and he steps out of them, moving them out of the way with his foot. He then kneels before her and places a kiss to her stomach, hands moving from her waist down her hips continuing down her legs removing the lace shorts as he goes. He looks up to see her looking down at him blushing, he stands and wraps his arms around her and pulls her into him kissing her. Danni can feel his growing erection against her and breaking the kiss she kneels before him, kissing just below his belly button and removes his boxers freeing his hard member. She stares at him for a second amazed by the size of his erection and he smiles at her reaction. “Shall we?” He holds out his hand to help her up whilst nodding at the shower.

They climb into the shower and Demetri stands Danni in front of him so her back is against his chest, his arms wrapped around her and one hand resting on her stomach. “Let me wash you darling” She hands him her shower gel and turns in his arms. He washes her back first then turns her back around so she’s facing away from him, her back against his chest again. He gently washes her front taking her breasts in his hands massaging them gently, thumbs brushing her nipples and a sigh escapes her lips as her eyes close enjoying the feel of his hands on her. He smiles and places kisses below her ear, making his way down her neck and across her shoulder. She raises her arm bringing her hand to rest behind his head as she turned her head to kiss him whilst gently playing with the hair at the back of his neck. They both moaned into the kiss and he turned her in his arms, his lips leaving hers as he placed kisses along her neck, her collarbone and down between her breasts stopping at her stomach. He was on his knees in front of her and gently turned her and pushed her so her back was against the tiled wall. “This will feel good I promise” He says looking up at her, she nods taking her bottom lip between her teeth. He kisses his way up her thigh, placing a kiss on her centre before parting her legs slightly and lifting one leg to lie over his shoulder, kissing her nub gently as his hands rest on her hips holding her in place. He slipped his tongue inside her, tasting her “Mmm, ahh” were the only sounds Danni could make, her eyes closed as her hands made their way into his hair. He withdrew his tongue and licked his way up to her clit then begun sucking and flicking the bundle of nerves gently and he slowly eased one finger inside her. Danni gasped at new sensation, he gently thrusts his finger in and out of her a few times before adding a second finger. She soon feels a knot begin to form in her abdomen, his fingers and tongue working together to bring her closer to her release. “Ahh Demi” He could tell she was close “That’s it darling, relax, cum for me” His cool breath hitting her clit sending a warm feeling through her as he continued to curl his fingers inside her as he kissed and sucked on her clit. Danni’s head fell backwards as the knot finally broke and she experienced her first orgasm.

Demetri removed his fingers and placed them in his mouth tasting her “Mmm you taste so good baby” He said quietly standing up and kissing her “I love you” She whispered against his lips holding him close. This caught him by surprise, smiling back at her he whispered “I love you too” and kissed her again. “Make love to me Demi…please” Demetri nodded and shut the shower off. He lifted Danni into his arms wrapping her legs around his waist and carried her to their bed, laying her down never breaking the kiss.

He pulled away resting his forehead to hers “Are you sure cara?” “Yes. I want you, I need you” She unwrapped her legs from around him, sliding her hand down between them and stroked his hard cock, her thumb brushing over the tip. His eyes closing at her warm touch. He kissed her again and he adjusted himself between her legs, taking his erection in his hand he gently guided himself inside her. He stilled allowing her to adjust to his size when he heard an almost inaudible gasp, before continuing to slide in until he was fully inside her, stilling again for a moment. “You’re so tight baby” He kissed her nipping at her bottom lip asking for entrance, which she happily gave him, their tongues moving against each other in sync. Danni felt him pull out slightly before slowly re-entering her, filling her deeply “Ahh” She breathed out eyes closing, her hands moving up his back, her nails gently scratching his skin. She left a trail of kisses on his shoulders working her way up his neck to leave a kiss below his ear before gently biting his earlobe. He growled and thrusted back inside her hard and one hand moved up her leg to hold it in place at his side. This new position allowing him to get deeper inside her with every thrust. His head dipping down, taking a nipple into his mouth sucking gently and flicking it with his tongue. His cold breath against her warm flesh sent sparks through her and she could feel another knot forming in her abdomen. His other hand moved up her side to take hold of her other breast, rolling the nipple between his thumb and forefinger and he felt her wrap her legs around his waist. “Demi” She cried out. He quickened his pace feeling his orgasm building and sensing hers was close too, filling her deeper with each thrust. “Danni” He growled low, lifting his head to kiss her and slipping his tongue inside her mouth. Danni sighed into the kiss. He dipped his head back down kissing her breast, his teeth grazing over the sensitive bud. Danni felt the knot break again pleasure washing over her like a tidal wave, her back arching off the bed and he snaked his arm underneath her and he held her close. His thrusts slowing as he came inside her, riding out his own orgasm along with her “I love you Demi” “I love you too Danni” He rested his forehead against hers.

He continued to hold her in his arms as her breathing returned to normal “That was amazing” She whispered before kissing him, love and devotion clear in her eyes “You were amazing” He replied kissing her. Still inside her he sat up on his knees bringing her with him and holding her to his chest, her legs still wrapped around him. “Don’t let go” He felt her nod as he got off the bed carrying her into the shower and turned it on. He climbed inside the shower and set her down in front of him, gently cleaning them both. She turned in arms and wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him down for a passionate kiss “Best. Birthday. Ever” She said between kisses and he chuckled “Glad you enjoyed your day cara mia” He pressed his lips to hers in a soft kiss.

That night he held her in his arms whilst she slept, her breathing and heartbeat soothing him. He closed his eyes relaxed and happy knowing that she loved him as he loved her.

The following morning she woke in his arms “Morning babe” She kissed him nipping at his lip, their tongues moving against each other. He moaned into the kiss pulling her closer “Morning mi amore” He said allowing her to catch her breath. She placed a chaste kiss to his lips and then his cheek making her way down his neck to kiss his chest; his eyes closing at her touch as her hand made its way down his chest over his stomach before slipping inside his boxers. She wrapped her fingers around his hardening length and heard him growl as she started moving her hand up and down his length “Lay on your back” She whispered and he complied. She raised herself a little removing her hand from his boxers and looked up at him. She then moved closer to him as he lifted his hips off the bed to allow her to remove his boxers. She crawled up to him and swung her leg over him so she was straddling him and then wrapped her hand back around his hard cock and began to gently pump him. Her warm hand felt good against his cold erection and a “Mmm” escaped his lips and she smiled looking at him lying bare before her, his eyes closed enjoying her touching him. She bent her head down and took his cock into her warm mouth, letting her tongue lick him from base to tip. Demetri sat up slightly, surprised, supporting himself on his elbows as he looked at her. She looked up at him through her lashes then looked down and continued to suck and lick his cock. He laid back down placing a hand at the back of her head and tangling his fingers in her hair, liking how her mouth felt around him. She gently began to move her head up and down his length building to a steady rhythm, his cock hitting the back of her throat with every suck as she took as much of his nine inches as she could. Her hand was still wrapped around his cock pumping the base and she felt him twitch slightly before feeling him tug on her hair pulling her off him. She looked up to see him looking at her again “Am-am I doing it wrong?” She whispered sounding a little upset and he sat up, wrapping his other arm around her “No, baby. You’re doing great really” He says smiling “It’s just I’m worried I’ll hurt you. I mean I could crush your head with my hands if I grip you too tight” She nodded “You best be careful then” She smiled and placed her hand on his chest and pushed gently. He laid back down and felt her mouth close back around his cold hard cock, his hand still in her hair. His other hand gripped the sheets as she continued to suck him off, her tongue lightly flicking his tip. She heard him growl and he tightened his grip on her hair “Danni” Her name falling from his lips as his head fell back, eyes closing as his nears his orgasm. She let her teeth graze his hard length, her tongue swirling around his tip as she felt him cum inside her mouth. She swallowed everything he gave her and once he stilled, she began to lick him clean “You taste so good” She said as she made her way up to him and kissed him, allowing him to taste himself. He smiled at her “My turn.” He rolled them over so that she was now beneath him, swiftly removing her panties as he settled himself between her legs. He left butterfly kisses from her knee up to her centre, placing a kiss there before repeating his actions on her other leg, only this time when he reached her centre, he placed a kiss to her lips there before licking and sucking on her clit. He parted her lips and slipped his tongue inside her entrance and one hand moved up to massage her breast as his other hand moved to her hip holding her gently in place. One of her hands found its way to his head holding him where she needed him most. “Ahh Demi” She breathed out and he withdrew his tongue from inside her and moved back to sucking and licking her sensitive nub. He then alternated between slipping his tongue inside her and sucking and licking her clit. She could feel a knot forming in her abdomen, every kiss, lick and flick of his tongue bringing her closer to her release. Danni gripped the bedsheets as the knot finally broke, her orgasm washing over her. He made his way up to her placing one hand on her cheek, kissing her whilst holding her close with his other hand “I love you” He said looking into her eyes “I love you too” She replied.

On the way back from the car Demetri passed the Pandora shop and noticed a charm bracelet with Disney charms on it ‘That’d be perfect for Danni’ he thought to himself. He went into the shop and purchased a charm bracelet with a couple of charms; Belle’s golden dress charm, a Mrs Potts and Chip charm and a ‘16th’ charm. He decided he’d buy her some other gifts too but will come back on his own without her.

“I’m back” Demetri whispered in Danni’s ear and kissed her temple before walking to round to sit across from her “Hey you. What are we going to do now?” She asked reaching over and taking his hand in hers “We can shop some more or we can head back. The choice mi amore is yours” “How about we have a look around a few more shops, you know window shop” She suggested “Sounds good to me. Ready to go?” She nods and gets up from the table intertwining her fingers with his.

They pass a shoe shop and Danni stops when a pair of red and black shoes catch her eye. They’re dark red at the front but blend into black at the back; they also had a dark blue and black pair. “Ooh look at them, they’re gorgeous” She says pointing to the shoes and Demetri looks at the shoes and back to Danni who has a smile on her face “Come on let’s get you a pair” With that he leads her into the shop and Danni tries on the red pair. “I’ll get them” Demetri says reaching for his wallet “No it’s ok I’ve got them” She hands over her card to pay for them. “Danni how could you afford them? I remember you saying when you first arrived you didn’t have much money” He asked once they were outside of the shop “I didn’t have much money when I arrived. However, when Esme sent me some of my stuff there was a bank card inside. The letter mentioned she and Carlisle opened an account for me so I could buy myself stuff. They wanted to know I was taken care of” She responded “It’s my job to take care of you, you’re my mate. If you need anything you let me know, better yet I’ll get a second card for my account for you to use. Is that how you were able to buy the new dress and my gifts amore?” He replied “Yes. Sorry if I have upset you, it wasn’t my intention” She said sounding a little sad “You haven’t upset me, I just wish you’d let me know. I would have sorted out a card for you sooner” He said softly “But Dem” He cut her off “I’m not taking no for an answer Danni. What’s mine is yours always” He wrapped his arm around her and leant down to kiss her “Ok, but as soon as I am able, I’ll get a job” She said “No you won’t, there is no need. I earn more than enough money for the both of us, plus what I have saved up over the centuries and anyways once you’ve been changed you’ll no doubt join the guard and you’ll earn money that way. Until then enjoy being looked after and spoilt…please” “I’m not going to win this am I? She asks, he shakes his head “No, no you are not” “Ok” She replied nodding.

Once back at the castle Danni put the new Lord and Lady cushions on the bed and the silver and purple ones on the sofas, whilst Demetri read the instructions on how to set up the TV. He hung the TV above the fireplace; Danni helped him download the apps on the TV and then they sat back on the sofa together. “Let’s watch a film” He said “What were you thinking Dem?” “How about Beauty and the Beast? Be nice to see it on a bigger screen” He answered “Perfect babe” She kissed him. Just then Felix and the twins arrived “Hi we’re here for movie night” Alec said. “Nice TV” Felix added looking impressed. “Thanks” Demetri replied. “I love the new cushions” Jane said smiling “Here look at these” Danni said showing off the cream Lord and Lady cushions on the bed. “At least now with the TV mounted on the wall we haven’t all got to sit on one sofa like when we used the laptop, we can spread out” Demetri said. He pulled Danni down beside him on the sofa facing the fireplace wrapping his arm around her; the twins sat on the sofa to the left and Felix on the one to the right. “This is my favourite Disney film” Danni says as the film’s intro starts. When Beauty and the Beast ends they watch Hotel Transylvania 2 and 3. “I like the new girly touches to the room” Felix says smiling at Demetri “It’s Danni’s room too now and it should reflect that, starting with some new cushions and bedding” Demetri replied.

The following day Demetri, Felix and the twins had the morning off and were discussing what they could do to fill the time. “How about we play a game Dem?” Danni asked “What were you thinking?” He replied. “How about hide and seek? You get to stretch your gift and keep the promise of playing it with me some time” She replies smiling “That sounds good, but we need to be careful Danni” He responds and she nods “Rules then please Demetri” He thought for a second before replying “Ok, you may hide in the castle and the gardens. You are not to leave the castle walls. OK?” “Ok. This should be fun; I love this game” She said running to the closet to put on a pair of flat shoes. Demetri loved seeing her happy and excited. “Can we play too?” Alec asked. “Of course. Should we get some of the others to play too?” She asked from the closet. “I’ll go ask them” With that Felix left and made his way to the throne room.

“Masters, Demetri is going to show Danni his tracking gift with a game of hide and seek and we were wondering if anyone else would like to join in?” Felix asked “It’s a quiet day and I think a game is a splendid idea. Caius?” Aro said “Yes why not? I’m getting bored of this book for now anyways” He responded “Marcus will you join us” Caius asked “Yes, as it’s for Danni. I am also curious to see if he can track her with his gift as Aro and Jane’s do not work” “Felix gather the others and meet us back here in fifteen minutes” Aro says excitedly.

Fifteen minutes later everyone is in the throne room waiting to start the game. “Game rules, you may hide in the castle and the gardens only. Last one found wins” Demetri says and goes to the back of the throne room and stands beside Marcus’ now empty throne. “1 2 3 GO” Demetri shouts and the room empties and he begins to count. He gives them extra time to allow Danni a chance to hide. He is curious if he will be able to track Danni with his gift because when he tried to reach out previously to pick up her tenor, he couldn’t find it. He’s hoping now they have spent time together and are closer the mate bond will allow him to track her. ‘Fingers crossed’ he thought to himself.  

Using his gift, which did give him an unfair advantage, he found Heidi first in the secretary’s store cupboard, followed by Chelsea in the lower tunnel, Corin was hiding in kitchen, Afton behind a tapestry, hoping his gift would help him (it didn’t) Alec and Felix were in the library, Santiago was found in the training room. Marcus came next in Aro’s study, then Aro in Jane’s room. Caius was found in a cupboard in Aro’s wing of the castle and Renata hid in the wives’ tower. Jane was outside in the south facing garden and then came Matt and Josh in the north facing garden. Sulpicia had hidden in Demetri’s room, curious to see how it looked since Danni moved in and Gianna hid in a guest bedroom. He found Athenodora next in Marcus’ wing, next to be found were some of the lower guard who were playing too. Everyone made their way back to the throne room to see who would win the game.

“Do you think he is leaving Danni till last or do you think she is immune to his gift too?” Chelsea asked “I think it is the latter my dear” Aro answered. “That means he’ll have to track her the old fashion way, by her scent” Felix said smiling “Or her heartbeat as Gianna has already been found” Alec added amused.

The throne room doors opened and in walked Demetri alone “Lost your mate?” Santiago says smirking. “She’s not lost; I just haven’t found her yet. There’s a difference. She did tell me that she was good at the game and would beat Bella and their friends when they played. I was looking forward to the challenge, but I must admit I thought I would have found her by now” He says. Aro laughs “She will make for an intriguing immortal just like her sister my dear boy. Luckily, we know she is in the castle so she is safe. I think I will come with you as I am curious as to where she has hidden” “Of course master. I am also curious about her hiding place and her possible gift once she is one of us” Demetri said as he and Aro left the throne room. Jane followed them out of curiosity.

Demetri closed his eyes reaching out for her tenor, finding nothing again. He then concentrates on her scent Strawberries and Vanilla with a hint of Champagne and follows it and gets excited when he nears a closet on the other side of the castle, but when he opens the door it is empty. Jane giggles “She is good at hide and seek” Demetri ignores her and focuses on Danni’s scent again. About fifteen minutes later he finally picks up a very faint trace of Danni’s scent as he passes the doors that lead down to the castle’s dungeons. He stops; Jane and Aro come to a stop slightly further back. Demetri looks to the doors ‘She wouldn’t’ he thought to himself; hoping Danni did not hide down there. He opened the doors and made his way down to the dungeon, Aro and Jane following “She’s a clever girl if she thought to hide down here” Aro says sounding slightly proud, Jane nodded “Although it’s not entirely safe down here” He added looking a little worried.

Once in the dungeon Demetri can hear a steady heartbeat and relaxes knowing he has found her; she is hiding in a cell in the furthest corner on the right. The cell was situated between two cells that were occupied by two older vampires who were curious now as to why a human would willingly enter the Volturi’s dungeon. “There you are cara mia” Demetri says walking into the cell. “I feel like I’ve been down here a while” She replies. “Try being us sweetheart, sixty years and counting” Comes the voice of the vampire in the cell to the right. “Ignore them” Demetri says. “You are the last to be found” He sounds relieved “Really Dem?” Danni jumps into his arms excitedly and he catches her holding her close and inhaling her scent.

“Yes child, you beat us all. It seems Demetri cannot track you, so he had to follow your scent like other vampires would” Aro says. “I don’t like doing that, I much prefer my gift” Demetri says “Aww is the world’s best tracker sulking because he can’t track his mate” Danni says in a mocking tone and taps his nose playfully. Jane laughs “Bested by your mate, by a human. This is a good day Demetri” “I don’t like her” Demetri muttered following her and Aro out of the dungeon with Danni still in his arms. He puts her down outside of the throne room. “You finally found her then” Afton says laughing; Demetri just glared at him. “Where was she?” Felix asks. “Danni hid in the dungeon and managed to leave a fake scent trail along the way” Aro says proudly looking at her.

“Can we play again, but this time I’ll be with Demi so I can see how his gift works?” She asks “Of course my child, it is a quiet day and it gives us something to do” Caius answers happily.

Demetri and Danni walk to stand beside the thrones as everyone gets ready to hide again “1 2 3 GO” Demetri shouts and once again the throne room empties. “I’m glad I beat you, especially as you said that you always win” Danni says smiling at him “You said you always won when you played with Bella; so I was looking forward to the challenge, although it was more of a challenge than I was expecting” He replied “Is it a problem that you can’t track me?” She asked, worry evident in her eyes “It just means if anything was to happen to you, it would take me a while to find you” He said looking down at her, worry in his eyes too. He placed his hand on her cheek and she turned her head and closed her eyes at his touch “I was hoping being my mate meant that maybe you weren’t immune to my gift. Just know I will be more protective of you now” He leant down and kissed her “I understand Demi” She whispered nodding “Ready to go?” He asked “Yes” she replied smiling and slipped her hand into his.

They found Afton first hiding behind a statue, hoping his gift would hide him (again it didn’t) Gianna was found next in a broom cupboard, followed Corin and Matt in the library, Santiago in the elevator and Sulpicia in Caius’ study. Chelsea came next in a kitchen cupboard, then Heidi in the training room, Alec in an empty tower room and Aro in a cupboard in Marcus’ wing. They found Felix in Alec’s room, and then Josh in the North facing garden, Marcus and Caius were in the south facing garden. They found Renata next in Heidi’s room, followed by Athenodora in Marcus’ study, then the lower guard were spread out through the castle. Jane won as she was the last to be found on the castle roof. The three of them made their way to the throne room “Wow. Your gift is amazing babe! The way you found everyone so easily” Danni says smiling proudly, wrapping her arms round him “Thank you mi amore” Demetri smiled back at her, wrapping his arms around her waist, puffing his chest out a little with pride.

Later that day Demetri and Danni walked to the kitchen to get dinner and due to his vampire hearing Demetri could hear the conversation before they got there. “Wow babe you’re amazing” One of the lower guards says laughing, mocking Danni “Thanks mi amore” Says another smugly, mocking Demetri. “I don’t see what’s so special about her; she’s just a human” Says a third. “You’d think being an elite guard he’d be mated to a beautiful and gifted immortal, but no he’s mated to a human and a Swan no less” Says the first guard laughing.

Jane had also heard the guards talking as she was passing the kitchen and decided to teach them a lesson. Hearing the guards disrespect Danni and him; Demetri growls entering the kitchen and notices one of guards is on the floor on his knees crying out in pain. Danni looks to see Jane staring intently at the guard smiling. “What did he do to piss her off?” Danni asked “He was mocking us mi amore” Demetri answered as he had one of the other vampire’s heads in his hands, the third guard sitting in silence with his head bowed, knowing what was to come. “Mocking us but why?” She asked “Why don’t you tell her” Demetri growled speaking to the vampire in his hold “Demetri you’ve removed his head already” Danni said pointing to the now headless vampire in front of him.

“What do we have here?” Aro asks as he enters the kitchen. “Jane, my dear” She blinks “Master” and holds out her hand, showing him recent events. “This is very disappointing, being disrespectful about an elite guard and his mate. I see that one of you has already lost their head” He says looking to Demetri “Sorry master, I didn’t realise I’d actually removed it until Danni pointed it out” “No matter my dear boy. We can always reattach it later. I see Jane has punished another, but what to do with you?” He says to the third vampire who’s still seated at the table. “Aro I’d like to know what was said about me and my mate. Can you get him to tell me please?” Danni asked “Of course my dear. Go ahead” Aro said looking at the guard. The third guard then proceeded to tell Danni what he and the others had said about her and Demetri. Demetri could tell she was upset at hearing what had been said about them, although she was trying very hard not to show it. “Thank you for telling me. I’ll leave you to deal with him. Demetri I’ll meet you back in our room. Aro” With that Danni nodded her head to Aro and left the kitchen. “Demetri go with her; Jane and I will finish dealing with this matter” “Thank you master” Demetri bowed his head to Aro and ran to catch up with Danni.

Once back in their room Demetri went straight to the bathroom to run Danni a bath, lighting some candles too. “I’m sorry Demi” Danni said almost inaudibly but with his vampire hearing he heard her clearly “Do not apologise, you have done nothing wrong” “B-but I’m the reason they were mocking you…us” She said low “I do not care what those idiots think, they’re no one. You my darling are everything to me. I am very happy and proud to have you as my mate and cannot wait to see your gift in action as an immortal” He looked at her lovingly holding her close, resting his forehead to hers. “I was just so amazed by your gift and I didn’t think about my reaction or how it would affect you” She replied eyes closed. “I loved your reaction to my gift, no one has been that impressed for centuries. Never hide your reactions from me; after all you are experiencing everything for the first time. Now come on the bath’s ready” He said leading her into the bathroom “I’ll leave you to get in the bath then I’ll come back to check on you, maybe wash your hair” He said and as he went to leave Danni grabbed his hand “Why don’t you join me?” This caught him by surprise, he looked at her “You-you sure?” He sounded unsure of himself and she giggled “Yes, or I wouldn’t have asked. Don’t worry I won’t look” He laughed as she turned around and got undressed. Danni climbed in and bought her knees to her chest as Demetri climbed in behind her. Danni let some water out and added more hot water to compensate for Demetri’s cold temperature. He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her to him so her back was resting against his chest. “I’m so glad you have a large tub Demi” “Me too cara” They laid together in the bath relaxing as the soft scent of Vanilla filled the room as the candles flickered away.

Danni spent the following morning reading and watching TV in her and Demetri’s room as Demetri said he had errands to run with Felix. The two vampires were going shopping for Danni’s birthday presents and when the twins found out they decided to tag along. Gianna lent Demetri her car as hers was bigger than his Lamborghini. “Any ideas what you two are going to get Danni for her birthday?” Demetri asked the twins “I’m going to buy her a necklace and some earrings” Jane replies “I’m getting her some art stuff, like canvas’, paints, pencils that sort of thing” Alec says. “I’m getting her The Vampire Diaries book set and The Hunger Games book set. She mentioned she had them when she lived in Forks. I thought it’d be nice for her to have them here” Felix added. “They’re really good gift ideas, she’ll love them” Demetri said smiling. “So what are you buying her?” Jane asks “I won’t tell you everything I’m getting but I’ll tell you some stuff. First, I’ve bought her a Pandora charm bracelet with 3 charms. There is a pair of blue/black shoes that she has seen that I’m going to get her, she bought the red/black ones a few days ago.” “Sounds like you plan on spoiling her” Felix comments “I am and I enjoy doing so. She deserves the best and I intend to give it to her” Demetri replies smiling.

Once at the mall the twins set off to get their gifts for Danni whilst Demetri and Felix get theirs. Demetri buys the shoes first and then they go to the bookstore so Felix can get his gifts. Demetri then goes to a jewellery store as he had already decided on buying her a ring and settles on a white gold ring with a heart shaped sapphire in the centre surrounded by mini diamonds. “Wow D. That’s an impressive ring” Felix comments “Thanks. Not a word to anyone Felix, I’m not sure if I’m giving it to her on her birthday or not” “Is that an engagement ring?” Felix asks “Yes it is. I plan on marrying her whilst she’s human. I want her to have as many human experiences as possible” Demetri replies quietly. “You really love her, don’t you?” “Yes Fe, I do. How could I not? She’s amazing, she’s beautiful, funny and caring. She makes me feel human again in some ways and I haven’t been human for 1000 years. I know it’s only been two months but we’ve come a long way, we’ve actually become really close. I mean we’ve shared intimate moments and it’s not felt rushed, it’s developed naturally” Demetri said smiling “I’m happy for you D, seeing you with Danni makes me want to find my mate sooner rather than later” “And you will Felix and it will be great when it happens.”

Demetri also bought Danni a silver necklace with a heart shaped pendant that had a small diamond on it, he had it engraved on the back ‘Happy Sweet 16 Love D’ “Felix I want to buy Danni another gift, would you mind waiting out here?” Felix looked at the shop they were standing in front of and nodded. Demetri went into Boux Avenue and picked out two baby doll sets, one black with a lace trim and the other a mid-blue with pink flowers. He just hoped Danni liked her gifts and enjoyed her birthday. He bought himself two new shirts on their way back to meet the twins.

They meet up with the twins who have done some personal shopping as well buying Danni’s birthday gifts. “Ready to go?” Demetri asks and the other three vampires nod and they make their way back to the car and to the castle.

Once back in the castle Demetri left his bags in Felix’s room until Danni was asleep, then he went back and got the bags and hid them in his empty closet.

Over the next few days Gianna and Demetri got things ready for Danni’s surprise birthday party. Gianna bought banners and balloons and ordered a lemon drizzle cake with a lemon curd and lemon buttercream filling, covered in fondant icing and decorated with flowers. Gianna remembered Danni saying her favourite cake was lemon drizzle. Gianna also ordered a few helium ‘16’ balloons that she’d collect Wednesday night.

Jane and Alec were tasked with picking up gifts for Danni from Aro, Marcus, Caius and the wives.

The vampires in the castle were getting excited about Thursday seeing as many of them hadn’t celebrated a birthday in decades, if not centuries and it would make a change from just being on guard duty in the castle.

Danni had no idea what was being planned for her birthday in the castle. She wasn’t looking forward to her birthday this year, seeing that her parents thought she was dead and she hadn’t heard from her sister Bella in the two months she’d be in Italy. Although her birthday was mentioned on the day she arrived in Italy, Danni had never actually told Demetri the date and he had never asked. So she figured it would go and she was ok with that. She just hoped she could spend the day cuddling with him and watching TV.

“Can I come to the training session with you?” Danni called from the bathroom “No. It’s too dangerous” Demetri called back “Please Dem. Don’t leave me on my own all day. I promise I won’t get in the way” “Danni that’s not what I’m worried about. I’m worried about you being in a room full of vampires. It’s my job to keep you safe” He placed a hand to her cheek “It’s not your job Dem, your job is being an Elite Volturi Guard and anyway I will be safe, I’ll be with you” She smiled at him then kissed his cheek. Demetri knew then he couldn’t say no to her “Ok, you can come with me, but you do exactly as I say. Understand?” “Yes. Thank you” She was excited and gave him a quick kiss. He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her into him kissing her, a soft moan left Danni’s lips and she wrapped her arms around his neck. Demetri smiled against her lips and then deepened the kiss wrapping his other arm around her holding her to his chest.

Demetri took Danni’s hand in his as they made their way down to the training room. Santiago and Felix were already there with some of the lower guards. Demetri led Danni over to the benches on the right side of the room “Afternoon Santiago, Felix.” “Demetri” They both replied. “Good afternoon Danni, it’s nice to see you again” “Afternoon Josh” Danni replied walking over to the bench where Josh was sitting and taking a seat beside him “Danni stay beside Josh please” Demetri said smiling at her and Josh and she nodded in response.

Demetri made his way over to Felix “Let me guess Danni has come to watch the training session?” “Yes. Yes, she has” Demetri replied to Felix, who was smirking “Couldn’t say no to her huh?” Felix nudged his arm gently “Shut up” Demetri said getting into position at the front of the room.

“You staying to watch the training session?” Santiago asked “Yes I am. Demetri said I can watch as long as I do what he says” Santiago nodded and took a seat next to Danni “Don’t move from my side or Josh’s unless I say otherwise” He said and Danni nodded “Ok” Demetri smiled knowing she was safe with Santiago and Josh.

As the rest of the lower and transitory guards arrived they noticed the scent of a human, Danni more specifically, coming from inside the training room. “Listen up!” Demetri shouted getting the room’s attention “My mate Danni is here watching us today as she wanted to see a Vampire training session. If any of you even think of harming her, let alone attempt to, I’ll rip your heads off! Is that understood?” “Yes” “Yes sir” Came the replies from the room.

Danni watched as Demetri explained what he wanted the guards to do and then he and Felix gave a demonstration. “You two you’re up” Felix said as he pointed to two guards. Danni watched as they re-enacted the demonstration although at times they moved so quick Danni struggled to keep track of the ‘fight’. Demetri stood with his hands behind his back watching the guards “Not good enough! If you did that in a real fight you’d be dead! Again!” Demetri shouted when needed as the guards teamed up in pairs to ‘fight’.

“Training’s over. Pick up any limbs that need reattaching” Felix called out. The session had lasted a few hours and Danni was amazed at how many limbs got tore off and needed to be reattached. Demetri walked over to where Danni was on the bench “What did you think?” He asked “Wow! You were amazing. I couldn’t keep track of the some of the guards or the dismembered limbs but it was interesting to watch. Thank you for letting me sit in on the session” Danni stood up and moved so she was standing in front of him “Thank you cara, it’s years and years of combat training and experience in the field” Danni felt uneasy when she heard that he’d been in fights for real “Do-do you have to fight often when you’re away?” She asked worry evident in her eyes “Only when necessary and I am not usually alone in those situations. I usually have Felix and the twins with me and sometimes even the transitory guards. Ok?” Demetri responded pulling her into him, he felt her nod against his chest. He lifted her head so he was looking at her “I have to go to the throne room now with Felix and Santiago. So I will see you later tonight” He placed a quick kiss to her lips. “Josh, please see that Danni makes it back to our room safely” “Of course Demetri. Come on Danni, we’ll swing by the kitchen to grab you a snack or something” “See you later Demi” Danni said before placing a kiss to his cheek. “Can we say hi to Gianna on the way? I’d like to make plans to see her at dinner” She asked Josh as they left the training room “Of course we can” Josh replied.

“I like her Demi” Santiago said smiling and slapping Demetri on the back “It’s Demetri to you” He growled and Santiago and Felix chuckled, Santiago holding his hands up in mock surrender “I think she’s brave to sit in a room full of vampires” Felix said “Or is it a case of the little human has you wrapped her little finger?” He added and Demetri sighed “Both” All three vampires laughed at that “Come on or we’ll be late” Santiago said and with that they sped to the throne room.

Josh left Danni with Gianna at reception for the rest of the afternoon, Danni helping Gianna with her duties. “I’ll come back and get you once you two have had dinner” “Thank you Josh.”

Gianna and Danni were in the kitchen making pizzas “How about we take these to my room and we can talk?” Gianna asked “I’d like that” Danni replied.

Once they were in Gianna’s room, they took a seat on the sofa and ate dinner whilst talking. “How are you and Demetri after the other night? I heard about what happened” “We’re ok. We spoke about things, I cried and he apologised. We spent the day together yesterday; we went to the museum and Dem liked his gift. Then we had a lunch in a nice little bistro before going an art gallery and Dem bought me a print from there. We had dinner out too and looked around the street market before coming back to the castle. I haven’t seen or heard about Leon since he caused trouble” Danni replied “I’m glad you two sorted things out. Leon was dealt with by Felix and Alec” Gianna answered “Oh right” Danni said looking down “Don’t worry about it sweetie. He had to be punished for what he did and Aro left that punishment up to Demetri. Demetri made his decision and it was to protect you. Anyway, what did Demetri think of the other gifts?” Gianna asked “He asked about his other gifts when we got back to our room last night, so I showed him what I bought. He said he liked them and is looking forward to seeing me in them. I explained about me not having dated before, not having had sex before and that I hadn’t even been kissed before. He totally understood, even said he had no expectations from me and would never rush/push me into anything I wasn’t ready for. He then asked if he could kiss me, I said yes and it was amazing Gianna. I fell asleep in his arms and woke up in them too” Danni said smiling “Aww sweetie, I’m glad things are going well between you. Demetri is a nice guy, even if he is a vampire” Gianna replied “We also found your little gift” Danni said and Gianna giggled “You’re welcome” “Dem seemed to like them” Danni told her and felt her herself blush a little.

“Have you heard from your family since you’ve been here?” Gianna asked “No, nothing. Esme wrote a short letter when she sent me my laptop and a few things. I don’t want to think or talk about them though, sorry” Danni replied “No need to apologise, I was just curious. What are you up to tomorrow?” “I have no idea, why’s that?” Danni asked “I wondered if you wanted to spend the day with me on reception, if you’re free?” Gianna responded “I’d like that. As long as Dem has nothing planned for me, for us then I’d love to help you out” Danni answered her “Great.”

Josh knocked on the door “Hi Gianna, I came to see if Danni was ready to go back to her room?” “Yes, I am. Sorry I didn’t realise it was so late” Danni said “No need to apologise, it’s just I’m on duty overnight and wanted to ensure you got back to your room safely beforehand” Josh explained “I enjoyed tonight Gianna, hopefully I’ll see you tomorrow, goodnight” “Me too, see you tomorrow, goodnight Danni.”

Danni exited the bathroom after brushing her hair and teeth and made her way into the closet to get ready for bed. She startled slightly when she felt arms wrap around her from behind. “Sorry, didn’t mean to scare you cara” Demetri kissed the top of her head. “It’s ok, I just didn’t hear you come in” She turned in his arms and rested her head against his chest. “How was guard duty?” She asked “Uneventful. How was your evening with Gianna?” He replied “Good, we had a catch up and she asked if I could help her on reception tomorrow, if we weren’t doing anything?” She replied “Tomorrow morning, I am taking you out for breakfast and then shopping. The afternoon I am on guard duty in the throne room, so if you want to help out when we get back that’s fine. I’ll back around the same time as tonight” He replied “That sounds great, I get spend time with you and help Gianna too. Is it ok if I have dinner with her again?” She asked “Of course, mi amore. I plan to take you out Saturday for a date, and it will be somewhere you can wear the red dress” Danni blushed “Really? That’d be nice. Thank you” “No need to thank me. I enjoy spending time with you” He kissed her lips gently, then took her hands in his and led out of the closet and over to the bed.

Once in bed Danni moved over to Demetri and placed her head on his chest and laid her arm over his waist and he wrapped his arms around her and held her close. She raised her head and kissed him and ran her fingers through his hair and let her hand rest at the base of his neck as he bought his hand up to her head running his fingers through her hair. Danni pulled away slightly breathless and placed a quick kiss to his lips “Goodnight” She whispered against his lips “Goodnight” He whispered back. Danni put her head back on his chest and snuggled into him and fell asleep. Demetri held her in his arms and closed his eyes letting her steady breathing and heartbeat soothe him.

Danni woke in Demetri’s arms, noticing his eyes were closed she placed a gentle kiss to his lips “Morning” She whispered, he smiled and whispered “Morning. You know I could get used to being ‘woken’ this way every day” “I promise to always wake you this way, even though you don’t sleep” She pressed her lips to his and he gently rolled her onto her back so he was laying above her supporting his weight on one arm as he held her close with the other and deepened the kiss. Danni moaned into the kiss giving him access to her mouth and their tongues move against each other. He pulled away to allow her to take a breath and looked at her with love in his eyes, something Danni noticed and hoped he could see in her eyes that she cared for him too. She knew that she was falling in love with him. With her arms wrapped around his shoulders, her hands resting at the base of his neck she pulled him back down for another kiss, gently taking his bottom lip between her teeth, asking for entrance to his mouth which he happily gave her. He was just happy that she wanted him, wanted to be this close to him. He knew he loved her and wanted nothing more than to tell her, but he didn’t want her to feel pressured to return those feelings. He had made her a promise that he would never push/rush her into anything she wasn’t ready for and he intended to keep that promise. After all, he had waited 1000 years just to find her and he would wait as long as he needed to until she was ready to be with him. He pulled away and said quietly “As much as I am enjoying this mi amore, we have plans this morning” “Can’t we change our plans so we can stay in bed and do this?” She leaned up to kiss him again. He broke the kiss and shook his head gently “I’m afraid not, I’m taking you out for breakfast and then shopping remember?” She nodded “I remember. Sorry I was enjoying kissing you” “Do not apologise amore, I enjoy kissing you too” He placed a kiss to her lips. “Come on, let’s get ready” “It better be a damn good breakfast Demi” She tapped his chest playfully and he chuckled “Only the best for you mi amore”

Once they were both ready Demetri took Danni’s hand in his and they made their way to the garage. He held the passenger door open for her and she climbed in his car “Thank you” He climbed in the driver’s side and they made their way to the mall. He took her straight to the food court’s newest eatery Wendy’s Waffles & Pancakes. Danni’s eyes lit up when she saw where they were going. “Oh my god babe, you’re the best" She pecked his lips and he smiled wide “Gianna mentioned this place opened two weeks ago and I know how much you like pancakes and waffles” He kissed the top of her head. Danni ordered a vanilla waffle with strawberries and maple syrup whilst Demetri just ordered a coffee.

After breakfast they made their way to the shops on the lower levels. The first shop Demetri took her to was a jewellery shop “Pick out a necklace to go with that stunning red dress” He said quietly to her “Dem you don’t need to buy me a necklace” “I know don’t but I want to, so please just choose one and don’t think about the price either” He kissed her temple. Danni went to say something but before she could Demetri kissed her lips and then placed his hand on her lower back guiding her to the necklace display cases. They looked at many necklaces but Danni kept looking back at a white gold chain with a teardrop shaped diamond, Demetri noticed this and smiled at her. “Can I help you sir?” The saleslady asked. “Yes, can we have this necklace please?” He replied pointing at the necklace. “Oh, that’s a lovely choice…” She smiled at him “…We have matching earrings if the lady would like to see them” She said looking at Danni. Danni looked at Demetri shaking her head “We’ll take the matching earrings too please” He responded with a smile. “Very good sir. If you would like to come to this till” They followed the saleslady to the counter and Demetri paid the bill then took the bag thanking her as he did so. “Demi…” Danni began before he cut her off “Don’t say I shouldn’t have got the earrings too” She looked down and nodded “Thank you, they’re beautiful” “You’re welcome, beautiful jewellery for my beautiful girl” He said smiling at her, she blushed resting her head against his chest briefly.

Saturday came quicker than Danni was expecting and she was nervous and excited about her second date with Demetri. Jane knocked on the door and entered the room “Would you like some help getting ready?” “Really?” Danni asked with an eyebrow raised. “Yes, and anyway I want to see you in the red dress” “Ok and thank you” Jane nodded “I’m going to run you a bath, come on” Danni nodded and followed Jane into the bathroom. “Has he told you where he is taking me tonight?” “No, he may have told Felix, possibly Alec, but not me. Probably thinks I’d tell you and ruin the surprise” Jane laughed a little, something she didn’t do often. Once Danni was in the bath Jane came back in “Any ideas on how you want your hair and make-up done?” Jane asked “No idea, sorry. Heidi did that for me last time” “We’ll figure it out together then” Jane replied smiling.

Danni got out of the bath, dried off and made her way into the closet to put on the new red underwear then covered up with a towelling robe. Jane got Danni to take a seat in the bathroom and began brushing her hair, parting it in sections, and straightened each section. Once Danni’s hair was straightened, Jane pulled her hair back and braided a fish plait into her hair, allowing the plait to lay over one shoulder. Jane then applied some light make up including a rose-pink lip gloss. “What do you think sweetie” “Oh wow, thank you Jane. I love what you did with my hair” Danni smiled at her “Glad you like it. Now let’s get you in that dress” Danni nodded and the girls made their way to the closet. Jane helped Danni into the red dress and her silver sandals, before putting the new jewellery on Danni.

That same morning Demetri went Gianna’s room and knocked on the door “Demetri, hi. What can I do for you?” “Hi Gianna. I’m after some advice actually. Is it ok to come in?” He replied “Of course” They both sat on the sofa in front of the fireplace and Gianni could tell Demetri was nervous, which is something she has never seen before. “How can I help?” Demetri was looking down at his hands in his lap and took a deep unneeded breath. “Danni turns 16 on Thursday and erm...” He pauses and Gianna nods “You want to know what you should do to celebrate her birthday. Maybe wanting a gift idea?” “Yes. Exactly” He replied, a look of relief washed over his face “I can’t remember the last time I celebrated a birthday or anyone else’s.” “Well, I can say that for us humans certain birthdays mean more than others. For example, when a girl turns 16, it’s referred to as sweet 16 and it’s a big deal. I would suggest a gift that means something, maybe a keepsake or jewellery. We need to sort out a cake for her and maybe speak with the masters and see if they’d be ok if we had a little get together for her. A mini party if you will. After all she’s made some friends here and I think it’ll be nice, especially as her family have not been in touch since she’s been here” She replied “What? Are you being serious? She’s been here nearly two months and they haven’t contacted her?” He sounded shocked and felt a bit angry at hearing this. “Yes, she mentioned it the other day when I asked if she had heard from them. Esme sent her a short letter with her laptop and bits, but nothing else. Sorry I thought you knew” Gianna looked down feeling a little guilty “You have nothing to apologise for and nor has Danni. I am definitely going to make her birthday special especially as it’s her first one with me…” Gianna nodded “…It’s amazing to think she’s only 16 as she seems so mature/grown up for her age. Please don’t let on to her what I am planning, I want it to be a surprise” Demetri replied “Of course Demetri, my lips are sealed. I will take care of the cake, seeing as I’m the only other human in the castle. Let me know if you need help with anything else” “Thank you and I will. I need to be going as I need to speak to the masters and get ready for my date with Danni tonight” Demetri said getting up from the sofa and leaving her room.

Demetri made his way to the throne room. “Masters may I have a private word please?” He asked “Of course my boy” Aro stated and raised his hands to dismiss the few guards in the room. “How can we help you” Marcus asked “Well, it’s Danni’s 16th birthday on Thursday and I was wondering if it would be ok if I arranged a little get together for her? She has made some friends since she’s been here and I think it will be nice; especially as Gianna’s just told me that Danni’s family haven’t been in touch since she’s been here” “I think a little party for Danni is a splendid idea, don’t you brothers?” Aro said smiling “Yes, I think it will make her feel more at home. We are her family now” Caius said firmly “It will help strengthen her friendship ties here in the castle and will also strengthen your mate bond further too Demetri” Marcus added with a smile “Thank you Masters” Demetri replies, bowing his head slightly “Gianna is arranging a cake and I am going to buy her a special gift to mark her special birthday. I would like this to be a surprise for Danni too” He continued “Of course. It’ll give us all something to look forward to” Aro says “We are very pleased that you were able to overcome that little problem you had too” Caius added “Thank you, me too. Masters” Demetri bowed and left the throne room.

Demetri got ready in Felix’s room, dressing in black suit trousers and jacket, with a white shirt and a red tie to match Danni’s dress. He had bought her a colourful bouquet of mixed flowers. “Where are you taking her this evening?” Felix asked “I have booked tickets to the opera. We will have dinner first at Di Marco’s” He replied “Ooh that’s a bit posh” Alec said smiling “I want her to feel special. It’s our second date” Demetri replied “It’s your third, you spent the day at the museum and Art gallery a few days ago remember?” Felix pointed out “I meant it’s our second date night” “There’s a difference?” Alec asked looking confused “Yes, date nights give us an excuse to dress up and do something a bit special, whereas date days just give us a chance to spend the day together outside of the castle” Demetri said smiling “Look at him. He’s totally smitten” Felix said smirking “I think you’re right” Alec agreed “Just wait till you two find your mates. I’ll remember this.”

Demetri made his way back to his room with the flowers to collect Danni for their date. He knocked on the door before entering “Danni, you ready?” “Yes, one sec” She replied and a few seconds later she stepped out from the closet and took Demetri’s undead breath away. “Wow. You look breath-taking cara” He said looking her up and down before kissing her cheek and Danni blushed “Thank you” “These are for you amore” He handed her the bouquet of flowers “Thank you Demi, they’re beautiful” “I’ll put them in water for you and bring them back to your room for when you return. Have fun” Jane says as she takes the flowers from Danni “Thanks Jane” Danni replied.

Demetri took Danni’s hand in his and made their way to the garage. “Where are we going Dem?” “It’s a surprise Danni” “OK” He held the door open for her and she climbed in “Thanks” “You’re welcome.”

They arrived at the restaurant and Danni was amazed at how nice the restaurant looked “Wow Dem, it looks really posh” She said slipping her hand into his “It is but…it’s only the best for my girl” He smiled and kissed her temple and she smiled back at him.

Once seated their waiter came over “Good evening my name is Gino, I’ll be your waiter tonight. Can I take your order?” “Can I have the Marco Polo Pasta please?” Danni asked “And for you sir?” “The same please” “Very good and drinks?” “Two lemonades please?” Demetri answered “Of course sir, I’ll be right back with your drinks” They both nodded. “Are you ok eating again Demi?” Danni asked quietly “Yes, I’ll be fine. It’s a date Danni. I’m not going to take you out to dinner and not eat with you” “You really are great, thank you. We’re sharing a dessert though” She said smiling “Of course” Demetri agreed smiling and took hold of Danni’s hand rubbing his thumb over it gently.

Once they had finished their mains Gino came back to clear the plates “Can I get either of you dessert?” “Can we get the Tiramisu please with 2 spoons?” Demetri replied “Of course sir” “You know you ‘play’ human very well Demi” Danni said smiling, “Thank you. I have someone to ‘play’ human for and to be honest it’s nice to do things I didn’t get to do when I was human, seeing as there were no restaurants around in my day” Danni laughed “What?” He asked “You sound old when you say ‘in my day’” “Well I am old Danni, even if I don’t look it” He said quietly “You’re not old, you’re ancient” She laughed again and Demetri smiled, he loved the sound of her laugh “You really should be nice to your elders, little one” He said laughing “I like that we can laugh about your age” “Me too amore, me too.”

Demetri paid the bill and walked back to the car with Danni, an arm wrapped around her waist. Once in the car Demetri said “Now for part two of our date” “Will you tell me where we’re going now?” “No, still a surprise” She nodded. Ten minutes later Demetri parked in the Opera House car park “We’re seeing a show?” Danni asked “Maybe” Demetri replied smirking taking her hand in his. Once inside Demetri bought Danni a programme and made their way to the box he had paid for. “Wow, these are really good seats” She was looking around amazed at the view from their seats “Only the best for my girl” Demetri said for the second time that night, wrapping his arms around her waist from behind. Danni looked at him over shoulder, blushing “You’re spoiling me” “I am and I always will cara mia” He kissed her hair “Come and sit, the show is about to start” “I’ve never been to an Opera before” She said “I hope you like it. Madam Butterfly is a good show” “You’ve seen this before?” She asked “Yes, back in 1904, the year it came out and again in 1906. There were a few changes made during the early years and the version we’re seeing tonight is the 5th version released in 1907. I have not seen this version” He replied and Danni was amazed “Wow. I never knew there were different versions of this show” “I’ve made myself sound old again, haven’t I?” He said looking at her beside him “No. You’ve shown yourself to be very cultured, knowledgeable even and I’m very lucky that I get to benefit from that” She leant over and kissed him, smiling. She held his hand whilst they watched the show.

Once back at the castle Demetri helped Danni out of her dress “You look so good right now” He whispered in her ear rubbing his hands gently up and down her arms, placing a kiss below her ear causing Danni to close her eyes and tilt her head slightly giving him access to her neck. He placed kisses down her neck and across her shoulder before working his way back up to her ear. Danni turned in his arms so she was facing him and wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him down for a kiss. She then stood on tip toes and trailed kisses across his jawline, under his ear and down his neck, one hand trailing from behind his neck down to his chest. He closed his eyes at her warm touch and tilted his head back a little enjoying her touch and kisses. He gently took her hand from his chest and walked backwards to the sofa in the closet and sat her on his lap so she was facing him. He kissed her wrapping his arms around her holding her close, she moved one hand to the base of his neck, playing with the hair there and her other hand was on his chest. He loved how warm she felt against him.