"UGH!" Lottie feigned retching and rolled her eyes.

Startled, Hannah looked up, following Lottie's gaze, and her eyes widened when she saw Gary and Maeve in the outdoors gym. Gary was doing push-ups while Maeve was underneath him. Each time he lowered himself to the ground, he pressed a kiss to her lips and then pushed himself back up.

Maeve giggled, her face flushed as she barely managed to look into his bright blue eyes that gazed down at her, and his lips twisted into a grin. Small beads of sweat formed on his forehead and chest, but he kept going, his muscles tensing, his strong arms braced on either side of Maeve’s shoulders.

Both Lottie and Hannah stared at them, bewildered - Lottie because she still couldn't believe that Gary had chosen Maeve over her, and twice, and Hannah because she couldn't for the life of her imagine lying under a guy, having to endure his panting, the sweat trickling down his face and onto her own, and getting sticky, sweaty kisses.

What was hot about it? Ew! She shuddered in disgust, averting her eyes and looking at Lottie instead. "That's disgusting, isn't it?"

"Mmm..." replied Lottie absentmindedly, her gaze still fixed on Gary, her eyelid twitching nervously as she clenched her teeth in annoyance.

"Lottie," Hannah tried again, putting her hand on Lottie's arm and squeezing it gently, "stop watching them. You'll feel miserable."

Lottie scoffed, "Oh, I'm miserable already, thank you very much." But she turned her back on them and turned her attention to Hannah, frowning and pouting. "I just don't understand why he would choose her over me. When we came in he didn't even notice her, he didn't step forward for her!"

Hannah clamped her mouth shut, knowing this was going to be one of those endless rants about how Lottie thought she was the perfect partner for Gary, and she decided to just listen and nod her head in agreement. There was no stopping her anyway.

"Are you even listening to me, Han?" Lottie suddenly snapped, glaring at Hannah with her emerald eyes.

The latter nodded quickly and forced a smile, "Of course I am. And I agree, I don't get it either."

For a moment Lottie watched her suspiciously, then waved her hand dismissively. "It's like I don't even exist anymore!" She turned back around, fixed her gaze on the gym and was annoyed to see Gary still doing push-ups and kissing Maeve. "What is it about her? I thought he liked opinionated women, someone who could talk back, but with her it's like she's the complete opposite. Always all sunny and happy, always trying to keep harmony and peace. It's so boring!"

"Maybe we should do something to get him interested in you again?" asked Hannah quietly, almost not daring to say anything because she didn't want to make Lottie any angrier than she already was.

"What did you just say?" Lottie jerked her head around to stare at her, and Hannah wasn't sure, but it seemed like her eyes were shining. Like she was feeling hopeful again.

"I don't know, but if you think he's just forgotten you, maybe get him to remember you. We could test him and find out if he really likes Maeve that much or if she's just the easier option."

"The easier option? What's that supposed to mean?" Lottie narrowed her eyes again and scowled at her.

Hannah swallowed quickly, "I just meant that with her, he doesn't really have to try to make it seem like they're a good couple because they're so boring. Nothing ever happens, they haven't even had a fight yet. And maybe he's taking advantage of her because he knows she'll secure him a place in the finals? He could be playing the game..."

Lottie scoffed sarcastically, "I highly doubt the guy is smart enough to do anything like that. I mean, he's a crane operator. Doesn't take much cognitive ability, does it?"

Hannah winced briefly, wondering why Lottie even wanted him so badly if she thought so poorly of him, but she quickly brushed the thought off. She's just angry...

"But," Lottie put one of her impeccably manicured black fingernails to her chin and tapped it thoughtfully, "you do have a point. Maybe I can make him regret ever coupling up with her."

"Do you have a plan?" inquired Hannah hesitantly.

"Not yet, but I'll come up with one!"

••••••••••••••••

Gary stepped out of the shower, feeling refreshed and full of energy after his workout, dried himself off and couldn't help smiling when he thought of the visual of Maeve lying underneath him, beaming at him with flushed cheeks. She was not his type at all, at least not on paper, but lately he was wondering if maybe he had been wrong about his type all along. After all, he was already thinking about what his nan would say if he brought her home. And he was bloody sure she would adore her.

Maeve was laid-back, easy-going, happy, and she always managed to put a smile on his face, too. He felt comfortable around her, he didn't worry so much about his physique, and he caught himself no longer wondering so often if she thought he was hot. Because the way she looked at him, her sparkling eyes that lit up whenever he entered a room or came into her field of vision, and her lips that twisted into a genuine smile - it made the butterflies in his stomach go crazy.

And the way she touched his body delicately when they were alone, the way she gently squeezed his biceps or brushed her fingers over his pecs as if he were a work of art -

Gary shook his head sharply and forced himself to stop daydreaming like that. He softened around her, he could feel it, and part of him liked it, but he couldn't lose his cool completely either. He couldn't let goosebumps cover his body just thinking about her. It wasn't like he was already in love with her, or was he?

He scoffed softly, concentrating on getting ready, then made his way downstairs. He was jogging through the large, open lobby when he saw Lottie lounging on one of the big couches, stretching her body luxuriously, almost like a cat, seemingly oblivious to the fact that he had just entered the same room. His eyes raked over her figure for the briefest of seconds, then he cleared his throat, "Well, hello there."

Lottie lifted her head, gave him one of her piercing looks that made him feel extremely uncomfortable - and not in the good, sexy way - and gave him a lopsided grin. "Just got out of the shower, huh?"

Gary just nodded wordlessly.

When she realised he wasn't going to say anything more, she rolled her eyes, and sat up, crossing her legs and resting her hands in her lap. "How's it going? Is Maeve everything you ever wanted?"

Gary raised an eyebrow and came over to the couch facing her, propping his forearms on the soft backrest. "Where did that come from?" he asked suspiciously.

Lottie grinned and clicked her tongue, "Just asking. Because it's still early days and all that, you know."

"Yeah, I guess so..." murmured Gary, not breaking eye contact. "You happy with Bobby then?"

She burst out laughing, throwing her head back dramatically and wiping the non-existent tears from her eyes. "What do you think? We're hardly the next great romance."

He nodded curtly, "Fair enough. Bobby's more of a mate, isn't he?"

"Yeah, literally. We get on well, but there's nothing more between us."

He sensed she was trying to get something out of him without having to ask him directly, but he wasn't going to make it that easy for her. He wasn't blind, he had noticed both her and Hannah staring at him when he had done one of his training sessions earlier where Maeve had joined him. He didn't know exactly what her problem was, but he was wary.

"All right, I'll just come out and say it," she finally relented, standing up and walking towards him. Gary remained silent, waiting for her to continue, grinning inwardly. There it is.

"Are you really happy with Maeve? I remember you telling me what your type was on paper, and it's definitely not her..." She scanned his face for a reaction, but he gave her none. It wasn't long before she was standing right next to him, putting a hand on his bicep and adding, "I just worry about you. You don't seem yourself."

He scoffed, but quickly disguised it as a cough and thought to himself, Yeah, right. You’re worried. Of course you are.

"Listen, Lottie..." he began, but she interrupted him. "I just want you to be happy, you know? And I want you to be honest with yourself. What does your heart tell you?"

He tilted his head, only now realising how terribly close her face was, her familiar sandalwood scent wafting around him, her piercing green eyes boring into his face, trying to read him. "What does my heart tell me?" he asked, trying hard not to grin smugly.

"Yes, like..." she placed the hand that had been resting on his arm seconds before directly over his heart, then continued, "Is it telling you to keep trying with her, or is it telling you to weigh your other options a bit? We're only ten days in, not even halfway through the month."

He thanked the heavens that his heart was beating normally, that she was unable to raise his heart rate even though she was so close and her whole being practically flooded all his senses. He would have thought it would be more tempting if she were practically begging him to take her back, but there was nothing.

Sure, she had been fun to be with, she was a good kisser, and aside from all the weird spiritual, esoteric stuff, she was cool. But he had never felt the spark with her. The butterflies. Not like he felt them with Maeve now.

"So what does your heart tell you?" he deflected, suppressing a chuckle when he realised he'd caught her off guard.

She pulled back and shrugged, "Well, there are definitely better options for me than Bobby."

"Yeah? Like who? Lucas, maybe?"

Lottie raised an eyebrow and huffed, "Please, not even if he was the only option. He's hot, of course. But apart from that, he's not my type. I'm here for love, you know? Not just for a summer fling."

Gary nodded solemnly, then added, "Does Bobby know you're grafting on me?"

She flinched, surprised by his sudden directness, and her cheeks flushed. She tilted her head to the side, her long blondish-pink hair covering the side of her face so he couldn't see her, then murmured, "Weren't you listening? It's not going anywhere. It's not like he'd mind."

"So you are grafting me," he stated dryly. "Why?"

When she didn't answer, he continued, "I'm happy with Maeve, alright? And I think my heart is telling me to keep pursuing her. I'm sorry things aren't working out between you and Bobby, but I'm here for love too." He pushed himself off the back of the couch and walked past her to the glass doors that led out onto the lawn. Hand on the handle, he turned to the side and added, "Also, jealousy doesn't suit you, Lottie."

With that, he stepped out into the bright sunshine, his eyes scanning the lawn and his heart skipping a beat when he spotted Maeve lying on one of the inflatables with her eyes closed, floating across the pool.

He headed towards her, but halfway there Hannah stepped in his way. "Gary, have you seen Lottie?" she asked, sounding oddly nervous.

"Yeah, she's inside," he gestured towards the villa with his thumb and was about to leave when she grabbed his arm and stepped close to him, whispering, "She really likes you, you know? I know she's not so good with feelings, but she misses you."

She nibbled her lower lip anxiously, the grip of her slender fingers felt too tight around his forearm, and for a brief moment he didn't know what to do. His eyes fell on Maeve, still dozing on the inflatable, and suddenly he couldn't get away from Hannah fast enough.

He put his hand on hers and gently but firmly loosened her grip, then replied in a lowered voice, "First off, she should have told me herself. Secondly, that's nice, but I don't miss her. I really like Maeve a lot. And since you're playing Cupid, will you tell her?"

Her eyes widened in shock and her mouth dropped open. Gary seized the moment and left her to it. Falling into a light jog, he approached the pool where he immediately dived in, the cool water engulfing his body.

Well, that was fucking weird, he thought to himself, wondering if he should talk to Maeve about it. He couldn't see her getting angry or upset, to be honest, but it was the right thing to do, wasn't it?

When he came back up, inhaling deeply and sweeping his wet hair out of his forehead, two curious brown eyes were staring at him, twinkling mysteriously, and there it was again - the rumbling in his stomach.

"Hi!" Maeve exclaimed, flashing him a toothy smile, the bright freckles on her nose and cheeks dancing and sparkling in the sun, and he returned the grin. "Hey, love. Alright?"

Her grin widened and she nodded, then tried to get off the inflatable and into the water. Gary chuckled and looped an arm around her waist, finishing the job for her. She giggled as he pulled her against him and her arms automatically wrapped around his neck. He leaned in and touched his lips to hers. A warm, comforting feeling spread throughout his body as she returned the kiss and he felt her lips move against his.

Eventually, he pulled back and decided to come right out and say it. "Love, I have to tell you something," he began and his heart beat faster when her nose wrinkled and she frowned.

"Okay?" she hummed, and there was no trace of worry or jealousy in her voice. It put him at ease almost instantly. He brought his palm to her face and brushed her cheek, then smiled reassuringly at her, "Nothing happened, but I thought you should know anyway." She just nodded, her warm eyes open and honest as she looked at him. "I think Lottie tried to come on to me."

She raised an eyebrow, and he noticed one corner of her mouth twitch slightly. But she said nothing, so he continued, "And I think she's jealous. Of you."

At that, her eyebrows shot up to her hairline and Gary couldn't suppress the chuckle that escaped his lips. "Of me?" she asked, and her voice sounded so full of disbelief and genuine surprise that once again he couldn't help thinking that she really was the perfect match for him. "Yes, love, of you."

She shook her head, crinkling her nose again, and pouted, seemingly thoughtful. "Oh, is it because you chose me over her? At the last recoupling?"

He chuckled again, "Yeah, and at the recoupling before that too."

"Oops," she giggled and her cheeks flushed again, a lovely rosy hue.

Gary closed the distance between them and kissed her on the nose as the butterflies rioted in his stomach.

"And what did you say to her?" she finally asked softly.

He shrugged nonchalantly, "I told her I liked you, not her."

The blush on her face deepened and she rolled her eyes playfully, but where her chest pressed against his, he could feel her heart beating harder at his words.

"You're not going to leave me hanging now, are you? Do you like me too?" he probed, a smile playing around his lips.

She smacked his arm and rolled her eyes again, "Of course I like you. I thought that was obvious."

He laughed, "Just wanted to make sure we were on the same page."

She nodded and smiled, "We definitely are."

Then she bit her lip and glanced down at his lips for a moment, but it was long enough for Gary to catch it and before she could lean in, he did and captured her lips in another deep, lingering kiss.

A tiny moan escaped her lips as he tightened his grip around her waist, and this time he didn't even try to stop the goosebumps that covered his whole body.

Bobby had pinched a couple bottles of champagne and hid them on the rooftop terrace.  He’d even managed to sneak a couple glasses up there.  Half of his plan was complete.  

“If you want to know how she really feels about you, get her drunk,” Graham told him earlier.  Bobby felt inclined to believe the sailor, for whatever reason, and even if he had his misgivings about it, he was determined to try.  

“MC!” He exclaimed when he saw her swaying on the lawn to some music that drifted across the villa.  She turned, eyes huge, a grin replacing her shocked look.  

“Hey, Bobby!” She stretched her arms out, and Bobby indulged her in a sultry slow dance.  Sultry for him was just swaying back and forth with her.  

“Do you fancy a chat on the rooftop?  Just you and me?” He asked, and she nodded, letting him take her hand and lead her away.  She was tottering on stilettos, and he made sure to balance her out.  She bit her lip, flushing as she realized she was walking like a newborn deer.  

Once they got to the stairs, she kicked off her shoes and left them in the dressing room.  Finally, they were on the terrace, and Bobby locked the door behind them and popped a bottle.  

“Oooh, fancy!” MC exclaimed, laughing softly.  It was music to Bobby’s ears.  He handed her a glass, and she downed it without thinking.  

“Thirsty, are you?” He teased, and she blushed as she held out her glass. 

  “I know why you’ve got me up here,” she said, winking. 

“Do you?” He raised his eyebrows.  

“You want to get me drunk!” She giggled, and he sighed, shaking his head. 

“Who told you that?  I do not!” He protested, and she shrugged.  It was Marisol, but she wasn’t going to tell him.  

“Don’t remember.  But I’m game, if you’re patient enough.” She downed the second glass, and he chuckled as he filled it up again. 

“With the way you’re throwing these back, I don’t think it’ll be long.” He teased, and she laughed as she threw back yet another glass of champagne.  

“I have a ridiculously high tolerance, Bobby,” she said, and as he pulled at his glass of champagne, she nursed hers, slowing down just a little bit.  She was tipsy already, and she’d miscalculated her tolerance.  

“Do you now?” he raised an eyebrow, and she glowered at him.  She couldn’t keep a straight face for long before she dissolved into giggles, covering her face.  

“You’d better be ready to take care of me in the morning!” MC playfully jabbed him in the chest, and he grinned, blushing. 

‘I’d be happy to take care of you for the rest of your life,’ he found himself thinking.  She waved her empty glass in front of his nose, and he laughed as he filled hers and then took a long drink of his own champagne. 

“Y’know,” she said lazily.  “This?  This is bliss, Bobby.” She slid to the floor, leaning against the wall.  He sat beside her, hugging a mostly empty bottle of champagne to his chest.  MC pointed at it, blushing.  “I wish that were me.” 

“Are you drunk already, MC?” He asked, and she laughed softly, shaking her head as she pushed the bottle aside and replaced it with herself.  He couldn’t resist wrapping his arms around her, breathing in her sweet scent as she rested her head on his chest. 

“Tip-shee.” She mumbled into his chest, and he ran his fingers down her back, and then up and into her hair.  She hummed contentedly before drawing back and grabbing the discarded bottle to finish it off.  He watched her as she put her lips to the mouth of the bottle and threw her head back.  

“You are something else, MC.” 

“You’re going to regret this in the morning, Bobby,” she said teasingly, and he laughed and plopped a pillow on her head.  She batted it away and made a move for the other bottle.  

“It’s a marathon, not a sprint!” Bobby protested, but she just grinned back at him as she popped the bottle open, yelping in surprise at the pop it made.  He couldn’t help laughing at her antics.  “At least save some for me!” He pouted, and she held the bottle up, a hand on her hip. 

“Bet I could drink this whole bottle!” She exclaimed, and he shook his head, prying the bottle from her grip before she could demonstrate. 

“I’m sure you can, MC!  Hand on heart, I’ll never forget what you did to that cake!” 

“That poor cake never saw it coming!” She tries and fails to be serious.  He can’t help but laugh with her, but when it subsides, he brushes a strand of hair out of her eyes, coaxing her chin up so she’ll meet his eyes.  

“But really, I’m not going to let you get that drunk, lass,” he says quietly, and she nods gravely before holding out her glass.  He fills it again, one hand still on her cheek.  The skin just beneath his fingers is flushed red and she’s hot to the touch.  She pulls away to take a drink.  

“You’ve been quieter than usual,” She says, frowning.  “Is everything alright?” 

He brightens, leaning in to pull something from behind her ear.  “Yeah, I just remembered I left something here.”  He pulls a cupcake from thin air, setting it before her.  She throws her free hand to her face, her mouth falling open.  

“For me?”

“A sweet for my sweetie,” He says as she giggles and downs the rest of her champagne.  She licks the frosting off of the cupcake seductively, but she just ends up with frosting all over her face.  He can’t help laughing, and she flushes under his gaze.

MC finishes the cupcake, setting the wrapper down and going to stand and look over the terrace.  She wobbles, and Bobby rushes to catch her by the elbow to keep her from falling.  “I’m good, I’m so good,” she says, but she’s slurring her words. 

“You’re so drunk,” Bobby breathes, and she turns, melting into his arms. 

“Yeah,” she breathes, before pushing back.  “No!  I’m not drunk!” She protests, and Bobby laughs softly, downing his glass of champagne.  MC sways, and he sits her down on a bench.  “Bobby, why’d you get me drunk?” She asks suddenly, and his eyebrows nearly fly off his face.  

“No reason, really, I thought you could use some fun.” He’s scratching his nose. 

“You’re a bad liar, Bobs,” She slurs, and he laughs softly.  

“Alright, you caught me,” He says, taking her hands.  He’s suddenly shy, biting his lip and blushing.  “Hey, MC?” 

“Yeah?” 

“How do you uh...how d’ya feel about me?” He asks, looking slowly at her.  Her eyes are wide in realization and something he doesn’t quite recognize, possibly amusement, and she smiles sweetly.  

“I love you, Bobs!” she exclaims drunkenly, throwing herself into his arms.  He catches her, and she can feel his heart pounding a million miles an hour in his chest.  She lets him hold her for a long moment before pulling back.  “Gonna leave me hangin’, then?” She’s swaying, and he pulls her back to him. 

“Of course I love you, MC,” he says softly, kissing the top of her head.  

“You didn’t have to get me drunk to ask me this.” She returns, pouting.  “I mean, I’m having fun, but now I can’t have more fun with you.” She folds her arms over her chest, but she sways a little before falling over.  He catches her again, holding on tight. 

“I don’t know if I could have mustered the courage otherwise!” He protests, and she laughs softly.  It’s music to his ears. 

“You’re meant to be the one drunk, then, Bobs!” She clings to him.  “Have you any water?” Her slurs are making her sound almost Scottish, and for a moment Bobby feels homesick and like he’s found home all at once.  Or maybe he’s a little drunk, too, and hearing things.  He passes her his water bottle, watching as she drinks greedily.  Her face is covered in water droplets, and under the moonlight, she looks magical.  

He can’t stop himself from leaning in, and she closes the gap, kissing him deeply.  Just as he’s starting to get lost in the kiss, she pours the rest of his water on his head.  He pulls away, laughing.  “Why would you do that?” He snorts, and she shrugs. 

“Thought it’d be funny!” She giggles, before pushing off of him and running to the door.  

“Wait!  Where are you going?” He asks.  

“To bed!” She stops, looking back at him.  “Why?” 

“I uh...I still wanted to talk,” he says, a little sheepishly.  “Maybe give you a chance to sober up before bed.  I know how you hate going to bed drunk.” 

She totters back to him, throwing herself into his arms.  “You are too good to me, Bobby,” she murmurs dreamily into his chest.  

“You deserve the world, gorgeous.” He returns, passing her his water bottle.  “You should drink this, you’ll feel better in the morning.” 

“I don’t know what I’d do without you.”  She sits down on the bench, her back stick straight.  Her expression is gravely serious, and she seems sober, but Bobby knows she isn’t.  At least, she’s got plenty of alcohol in her bloodstream.  “I mean it.” 

“I know, babe.” he sits beside her, rubbing her back. 

“Is it okay if I…” she trails off, wringing her hands nervously.  He waits patiently.  “If I pour my heart out to you?” 

“You don’t even need to ask, of course it is.” He squeezes one of her hands reassuringly.  “It’ll never change how I feel about you.” 

“When I first got here, I didn’t think I’d meet anyone I even fancied a little.  I figured it would be the same type of men I’ve always been around.  I’ve kept my walls up, and stayed guarded as much as I could, but as soon as I saw you, I knew I was in danger.”  She takes a deep breath, meeting his eyes.  He’s quiet, hanging on her every word.  She continues. 

“And with you, at first, I could not for the life of me figure out if you really liked me, or if you were just playing the game.  I won’t lie, sometimes I still wonder, but tonight has become a turning point for me.  I feel like I shouldn’t be scared anymore, and that I’ve found someone who really gets it.  I love you so much, Bobby, and even if you didn’t feel the same, I feel better for having told you.” 

She squeezes his hand, batting back tears with her other hand.  “I honestly can’t believe how lucky I am to be with you, Bobby.  We’ve been through a lot in here, but the fact that we’re still here, despite obstacles keeping us apart sometimes, tells me we have what it takes to make it on the outside.” She sighs, biting her lip.  

“MC, I love you, too.” He throws his arms around her, and she sniffles against his chest.  “And a lot of it was the same for me, too.  But being with you here, now, I know this is where I’m supposed to be, and it’s exactly where I want to be.  I didn’t think I’d ever meet anyone like you, I didn’t even know if I could ever fall for someone again.  But when I think about leaving the villa without you, it makes me fall apart a little.  

“You’re the only girl in here, in the world, for me, MC, and I want to do everything I can to keep you smiling.  Maybe I should be saving this speech for when we’re in front of everyone, but I can’t help it, I’ve never met anyone like you.” He holds her a little tighter when he feels her shoulders shaking.  “Are you...MC...are you crying?” 

“No!” She exclaims, but her voice wavers.  He leans back and tilts her chin up, wiping her tears away with his thumbs. 

“What’s wrong, cutie?” He asks, frowning, and she smiles, shaking her head. 

“Nothing, I’m just overcome with emotion.  I’m happy.” She cups his face and pulls him to her for a kiss.  He runs his fingers through his hair as he deepens the kiss, but he keeps it short.  

“You’re so beautiful,” he breathes, running his thumb along her cheek gently.  She shuts her eyes, and for a moment, she dozes off before jerking awake.  “I reckon we ought to get to bed, MC.” He tells her, and she nods regretfully.  

“I wish this moment could last forever,” she whispers, and he grasps her hand, pulling her to her feet. 

"Hi, so, newsflash - vampires are real. They're not just some mythical creatures, they're here. In our town. I mean, I need to know because one of them is sleeping in my bed." Davina giggled furiously and rolled her eyes at her boyfriend, "Even if I told someone, they would just laugh at me. No one would believe me because why should they?"

Youcef took a step closer and stroked her cheekbone with his thumb, "They don't have to believe you, amour. Doesn't make us any less real."

Smirking, he leaned closer to her and pressed a gentle kiss to her lips, then murmured, "Besides, it's probably better if it's our secret anyway. I wouldn't want any of your friends or - God forbid! - any of your family to freak out unnecessarily, would I?"

Davina giggled again, "Depends. Are you a threat to me? Because if so, I might have to tell them about you."

Youcef raised an eyebrow and clicked his tongue, "And what would be the point? If I wanted you dead, you'd already be dead. But I guess today is your lucky day, isn't it?"

She bit her lip, wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her lips to his, "Make it a lucky night and I'm all yours."

He chuckled and murmured against her lips, "Oh, but you've always been mine. Ever since you gave me your blood, ma belle."

She blushed and pulled back, "God, you're such a bad influence, babe. We need to get ready for my high school’s Halloween ball!"

Youcef shrugged nonchalantly and nodded, "I'll pick you up at nine sharp. Make sure you're ready!" He gave her a pointed look that let Davina know he was serious, then turned and strutted away.

Sighing, Davina went to her room and started getting ready for this year's Halloween party.

Of course, Youcef and she had decided to go as vampires. He didn't even have to come up with a proper costume because he was literally a vampire, but Davina had to put in a bit more effort, starting with the fangs and the red contact lenses. She curled her dark brown hair and applied a dark eyeshadow to her eyelids, a delicate stroke of black eyeliner and a few generous coats of mascara. She drenched her lips in a dark red lipstick, deliberately smudging some of it around the edges and expertly dripping fake blood down her chin.

Damn, I look hot as a vampire…

Davina winked at her reflection and then slipped into her costume, which consisted of a tight, black, strapless silk corset dress, leather overknees and long, elbow-length satin gloves. She knew Youcef would go absolutely bonkers as soon as he saw her, and she was looking forward to it.

When he finally picked her up, he almost started drooling. Faster than Davina could blink, he had her pressed against the wall, his face so close to hers that she had trouble breathing. His eyes darkened and turned red, the delicate veins under his eyes began to show, and she could see the light reflecting off his pristine white fangs.

With one hand he pushed her hair over her shoulder and leaned forward, his hot breath caressing her skin and the tip of his fangs grazing her throat as he ran his nose along her neck.

"Putain, t’es trop sexy," he growled in his throat, then grinned devilishly. "And I can hear your heart hammering in your chest. What's wrong? Are you afraid of me?"

Davina's cheeks flushed and she shook her head hesitantly, "Would now be a bad moment to admit that seeing you like this,” she gestured at his face, “fucking turns me on?"

Something flashed in Youcef's eyes and she held her breath in anticipation of feeling his teeth sink into her flesh, but he took a step back and murmured, "Yeah, I'd say that was a pretty bad moment."

She watched him suck in a deep breath and shake his head sharply, but then he nodded and held out his arm to her, "Let's just get through this night. But I want you to know that I can't wait to get back home, amour. You don't get to just say something like that and assume I won't do anything about it."

He winked at her and she blushed even more, but she put her arm through Youcef’s and let him walk her to her high school where the annual Halloween ball would be held.

Every now and then Davina glanced at Youcef and bit her lip as shivers of pleasure ran down her spine and made her abdomen tingle in anticipation of what he would do to her when they were back in her room later that night.

He was wearing tight black trousers, a black shirt that was only half buttoned, showing off his well-toned physique and gloriously pale skin, and a dark red blazer. As always, he wore heavy silver rings on his fingers, bracelets on his wrists and several necklaces around his neck, making him by far the most attractive man she had ever met.

But that wasn't really hard to achieve either, because after all, it was Youcef. What else had she expected?

"Do you like my outfit?" he snapped her out of her thoughts and grinned smugly.

She shrugged and replied, "Yeah, you look hot. But you don't need me to tell you that, do you?"

He laughed. "Yes, I do. You're my girlfriend, your opinion is important to me."

"You're fishing for compliments, love," Davina rolled her eyes, "and I'm not falling for that. You're going to have to manipulate me into stroking that huge ego of yours."

"And that's exactly why I love you, you sassy little minx." He pressed a kiss to her cheek as they entered the school gym, now transformed into a spooky mess.

Huge cobwebs hung from the ceiling, carved pumpkins glowed in the darkness and loud, pulsating music echoed through the hall. Artificial fog billowed on the floor and the red, flickering and stroboscopic light of the spotlights bathed the hall in an eerie ambience.

Davina was quivering with excitement and tugged on Youcef's hand, "Come on! This is going to be so much fun!" She rushed towards the dance floor, pulling her boyfriend along with her, who chuckled softly.

"Dance with me!" she shouted over the loud music, and Youcef's face contorted briefly. He leaned forward, his mouth hovering next to her ear, and growled, "No need to shout like that, I can hear you perfectly."

Without giving her time to say anything back, he wrapped his arms tightly around her waist and pressed her against his body, enjoying the way her breath hitched and her eyelids fluttered.

All around them, people in various costumes danced the night away, getting drunk on the free booze. Davina kept an inconspicuous lookout for her friends but couldn't make them out in the mass of teenagers grinding against each other, the smell of sweat engulfing her.

But she didn't mind. She felt so alive at that moment, especially considering the way Youcef's hands were practically burning through the fabric and into her skin.

"You know," she began, careful to keep her voice down, "in the tales they used to say vampires were the kiss of death itself. Cold, bony, their skin unnaturally grey, but you seem perfectly normal. Like a normal living human."

Youcef chuckled and leaned towards her again so she could hear him over the noise, "You shouldn't believe everything in those myths. Most of it is bullshit anyway."

She laughed and wanted to slap him, but he grabbed her wrist before she could even touch him.

"I'm faster, remember?" he hissed and winked at her, to which she shrugged and replied, "Maybe I'm just testing your reactions because I think it's really hot?"

She could hear him inhale sharply, and then he growled, "Someone's feisty tonight, huh? Careful, ma belle, you know I have a hard time controlling myself around you."

Davina bit her lip gently and looked at him, doe-eyed and as innocent as possible. "Maybe I don't want you to control yourself around me tonight?"

No sooner had the words left her mouth than his eyes darkened dangerously again and he asked in a hoarse voice, "You want me to drink from you? Here?"

"I mean, it's not like people are paying attention anyway, right? Might as well take advantage of it," she winked at him and he shook his head.

"Bon sang, Davina," he cursed softly and she felt her heart beat faster as she saw the familiar veins bulging under his eyes.

She slowly removed one of her long gloves, raised her hand to his face and presented her bare wrist, which she knew he had a hard time resisting.

Then she hissed, "Bite me," and the next moment she felt his fangs burying themselves into her skin. She moaned in pleasure, knowing no one would hear her.

Fuck, it was turning her on so bad.

Feeling the pain of his bite surge through her sent her into a kind of ecstasy she couldn't get enough of. Especially because she loved watching him pull back, his tongue running over his lips to taste the last drops of her blood, his features becoming human again and then moaning, "God, you taste heavenly," his voice full of hunger and lust.

Eventually, she put her glove back on, reached up, wrapped her arms around his neck, pulled him down to her and locked his mouth in a deep, passionate kiss.

She knew she had withdrawn from her friends ever since Youcef had come into her life, but it was almost as if he had cast a spell on her. She couldn't get away from him, she was addicted to his touch, his taste, and she felt like she was losing her mind if she couldn't be near him.

Was it toxic? Maybe. But what did you call it when there was a supernatural involved in the equation and not just mere humans?

Youcef wasn't just some college student boyfriend. The attraction she felt for him was supernaturally charged, and that changed a lot of things - at least on her part. And her friends hadn't even come by to check on her. None of them liked Youcef and they all blamed it on his sarcastic, arrogant manner, but Davina could only laugh at that.

If only they knew!

"I'll get us something to drink, okay? Don't move." Her boyfriend reluctantly loosened his grip around her waist and pulled away, then - with a reassuring nod from her - made his way to the bar.

He had barely disappeared when she heard Dylan's voice behind her. "Well, hello, beautiful! Where's your protective boyfriend?"

She turned and shot him a glare. Dylan was dressed as a devil and Davina almost burst out laughing.

Of fucking course he’d choose the devil, oh Lord!

She put on her sweetest smile and replied, "He just left to get us something to drink. But you knew that, didn't you? You would never have approached me if he was here."

He threw his head back and laughed, "You really think I'm afraid of him? Of that pretty boy? That's ridiculous. I'm disappointed you would even think that."

Davina rolled her eyes - Dylan, that arrogant bastard who thought he could have anything and anyone he wanted. Well, he hadn't expected Davina to publicly reject him, damaging his ego. When she had started dating Youcef instead, Dylan hadn't been able to let a day go by without pestering her in some way. Especially when he knew Youcef wasn't around.

He didn't know, of course, that even now, when Youcef was several feet away from her and a crowd of clueless teenagers was between them, he could hear what was going on around her if only he wanted to.

And a wicked grin spread across Davina's face, knowing that he would most definitely overhear their friendly conversation.

She shifted her gaze to Dylan and leered at him, "How many times do you want me to turn you down before you realise that I will never agree to go on a date with you?"

He winced and his eyes narrowed in anger, but he quickly regained his composure, took a step towards her and hissed, "You'll regret getting stuck with that pathetic Frenchman and then, when it's too late, you'll come crawling to me. You'll see."

She chuckled in amusement and raised an eyebrow, "Another empty threat? Oh Dylan, when are you going to learn that you better not mess with me?"

His jaw clenched and he wrapped the fingers of his right hand around her wrist, tightening his grip painfully, and growled, "You better not mess with me, love."

His fingers dug into Davina's skin and she contorted her face in pain and gritted her teeth, "Let go of me and don't ever call me love again, asshole!"

Dylan just laughed and moved his face so close to hers that she felt his breath, reeking of alcohol, on her face and an unpleasant shiver crept over her body.

A sudden movement caught her attention and Davina felt herself relax instantly when she saw Youcef standing behind Dylan. His whole body was rigid, ready to snap Dylan's neck, and his jaw was clenched tight.

"Let her go right now," he growled, but Dylan ignored him.

"Oooh, love, your pretty boy has come to rescue you, hasn't he?"

The next moment Youcef had his hand wrapped around Dylan's neck, squeezing his fingers together, and his eyes darkened, crimson flashing in his normally hazel eyes.

"Do I have to make you let her go?" He growled, and for a moment it seemed as if time had stopped. Youcef's eyes were full of rage and Davina knew he would have no problem actually killing him. Somehow she knew that everything depended on what else would come out of Dylan's big mouth. But as much as she hated Dylan, she couldn't let that happen. Not in a room full of people.

"Youcef, stop it!" She hissed, willing him to look at her, and when he finally did - very reluctantly - she added, "I know what you're thinking, but don't. Please."

Youcef scoffed angrily, then whirled Dylan around and stared him straight in the eye, forcing him to hold his gaze. A moment later he let go of him and Dylan left the hall as if nothing had happened.

Youcef took a step towards Davina and hugged her to him, wrapping his arms around her shoulders and whispering in her ear, "You know that happens when that pretentious moron can't keep his filthy hands to himself."

Davina shuddered and at the same time felt her pulse quicken. She lifted her head and pressed her lips to Youcef's. "I love how protective you are of me, but I never said you should kill for me, babe."

He chuckled darkly, "See, but that's where you're wrong. I would definitely kill for you without so much as blinking an eye if it meant I could protect you."

She thumped his chest in exasperation and rolled her eyes, but he leaned forward and muttered, "You can roll your eyes all you want, but it turns you on and you know it."

At that Davina gasped and her cheeks flushed. "Stop it, Youcef, you're impossible."

Youcef just shrugged and pulled her close again, resting his chin on top of her head. But Davina was more than ready to leave this party and go home instead, so she whispered, "Let's go, shall we? I've had enough of this boring party."

He looked down at her and grinned slyly, "Well, that’s my girl. Can't say no to that, can I?"

He winked at her and then led her out of the hall back outside into the night, where the cool air immediately made Davina shiver and she wrapped her arms around herself. Youcef casually slipped out of his blazer and draped it over her shoulders.

"Better?"

When she nodded her thanks and smiled up at him, he grinned and took her hand. "Let's go then."

They continued to walk in silence, each indulging in their own thoughts, until Davina interrupted it.

"Have you ever thought about what it would be like if you turned me?" she asked softly.

At first he didn't respond and just kept walking beside her, but then he said, "Of course I have. Why do you ask?"

She shrugged her shoulders anxiously. "I dunno. It's just something I've been thinking about a lot lately." She blushed and he noticed but didn't comment.

"How come?"

"I'm just afraid of losing you and I know the day will come when I have to say goodbye to you."

Her voice sounded thin and brittle as she said it, and he squeezed her hand, intertwining his fingers with hers, and murmured, "Is this your way of telling me you love me?"

Davina gasped and narrowed her eyes, "You know I love you."

Youcef laughed, "Yes, but it's always nice when you say it." He looked at her and lowered his voice, then added, "Don't think I haven't noticed you pulling away from me lately. You used to say it back every time I told you I loved you."

She winced and tried to pull her hand out of his grip, but he tightened his hold. "Ah non, you won't. See? That's exactly what I mean... Talk to me, please."

"I already told you."

He clicked his tongue and stopped walking, then turned to her and lifted her chin, "You know I could manipulate you into telling me what you really think. But I don't want to do that. So please talk to me."

Davina knew he would so easily be able to suck it out of her mind, and maybe then she wouldn't have to say it?

But no, she knew she had to say it out loud. She just didn't think this would be the day, but then again, she had started talking about it, so she only had herself to blame.

So she sighed deeply, "I don't want to let you go, but I know I'll have to eventually because you can't stay with me forever. I'll..." she gulped, "I'll get old and people will start asking questions." Her lower lip began to tremble, so she bit down on it and added in a husky voice, "But I don't know if I'm ready to give up my human life yet either."

With his hand still cupping her chin, Youcef pulled her close and kissed her gently, sending a sweet tingle down her spine.

As he pulled away, he murmured, "You have to want it yourself. You can't give up your life for me. Eternity is a hell of a long time, my love."

Tears filled her eyes and she stared up at him, "And what if I choose not to?"

His eyes twitched slightly at the corners, but otherwise they were almost blank, devoid of any of the thoughts running through his head or the emotions coursing through his veins. "It would break my heart. But I would never force you into it."

She shook her head, a single tear rolling down her cheek, and he gently wiped it away, his thumb lingering on her cheekbone.

"I don't want to break your heart."

"Amour, that's a risk I'm willing to take if it means I get to spend my time with you, however long or short it may be." He gave her a crooked smile that elicited a quiet sob, and impulsively she pressed her lips to his to keep from crying.

"I love you," she whispered in the brief pauses to catch her breath before she captured his lips in more long, deep kisses.

Finally, he gently pushed her away from him and sighed, "You can't even begin to imagine how much I love you, ma belle." He took her face in both hands and looked directly into her eyes, "You know that as a vampire all my senses are heightened, all my emotions are intensified. I love you so much that I would sacrifice eternity to be with you and that is..."

She interrupted him softly, "...and that's saying something, knowing how much you love being a vampire. Oh my God, Youcef."

He just nodded and she felt herself melt in his hands as he breathed, "God, I need you so much right now, Davina."

Choking on her own feelings, she whispered, "I need you too. Take me home with you, please."

______________________

As soon as Youcef had closed the door shut behind him, they tore each other's clothes off. His fingertips dancing over her skin with the grace of a pianist, setting her body on fire, his desirous open-mouthed kisses made her head spin and her vision blur because all she smelled, felt and tasted was Youcef and his all-consuming love for her.

Their lips colliding was like throwing a lit match into a petrol can - they exploded in burning flames and desperate desire.

He kissed and sucked and teased at every inch of her skin, devouring her and worshipping her at the same time with respect and adoration engraved in his every touch.

Davina writhed beneath him, demanding that he complete her, that she feel whole as she begged him to claim her again and again. But as soon as he buried himself inside her, the flames faded, and what was left was raw, pure love.

This time it was different. Perhaps because they both knew she would have to make a decision at some point. His thrusts were slow and measured, but no less deep and full of power.

Sometimes he let himself get so carried away, get so lost in the merging of their bodies, that he forgot she was still human. That she would never get used to his power and speed unless he turned her.

And when he sent her over the edge and exploded in ecstasy right there with her and she felt him bottom out inside her and moan her name - in those moments she was so close to blurting it out.

That she wanted him to turn her.

But it was also those moments when she was clearly not thinking with her head. Only with her body. And with her heart. And that told her now that she knew she would give anything to spend eternity with him.

But she wasn't ready to tell him yet. Maybe it was the uncertainty, maybe it was the fear of losing control of her life.

Hell, maybe it was even the fear of death, she didn't know.

All she knew was that she needed him, just like he needed her. And that she would probably need him forever.

Forever in a world where forever actually existed. In a world where forever wasn't just an empty promise.