Embrace the Night

Page 57



lingering at her waist, before he vaulted up beside her. Taking up the reins, he clucked to the horse.

Later, he stood at the foot of her bed, watching her sleep, his lust for her flesh, and her blood, burning through him like a dark flame. He touched his tongue to his teeth, felt his fangs lengthen as he imagined the ecstasy that would be his, and hers, if he allowed himself to succumb to the hunger. Just one small taste, he thought. What harm could it do?

The power of his presence called to Sara's subconscious. Sleepily, she opened her eyes. She blinked once, twice, but the creature at the foot of her bed didn't disappear. Only stood there, staring down at her through eyes that glowed with an unearthly incandescence. Even in the darkness, she could see its fangs—long and white and deadly.

It was the monster who haunted her dreams.

"I'm dreaming," she murmured shakily. "I've got to be dreaming."

She stared at the creature for what seemed an eternity, and then, like an image in water, the figure began to blur until it faded to a dark mist and disappeared.

Deep in the catacombs, Gabriel took on his own shape. The time had come, he mused with regret. He was going to have to let her go, now, while he still could.

Sara stared up at him. "Go? Go where?"

"I've made arrangements for you to attend the School of Ballet in France." "France!" Sara exclaimed.

She looked up at him, her eyes shining. "Oh, Gabriel, do you mean it? The School of Ballet!"
"You're pleased, then?"

"Oh, yes, but I'm too old to begin."

"They are willing to make an exception in your case." "Really? Why?"

A wry smile hovered over Gabriel's lips. "With enough money, anything is possible."
"Oh, Gabriel, you're so good to me!"

"You leave tomorrow. I've opened an account for you at my bank in Paris. All your expenses will be paid. In addition, I want you to buy yourself a new wardrobe."

"Aren't you coining with me?"

"No".