Page 12 of Eternal Obsession

Chapter Eight

ORPHEUS

Within the cellar lay five dead bodies pushed up against the far wall. As an uninvited guest I had resided here in the manor for two days, feeding on the unsuspecting residents upon my arrival. I winced with disgust at the scene, irritated by the familiar stench that emanated. This part of the kill was tedious. Mr. and Mrs. Brandenburg and their three servants had been taken by surprise.

The place needed straightening up, so I acted quickly, spending an hour burying the bodies in the farthest corners of their land. I worked tirelessly to make sure the old family plots were put to good use and that no one would ever uncover what I hid there.

Back at the manor, and with practiced efficiency, I washed, then dressed in the finest garments and polished leather shoes. A crisp shirt fastened beneath a richly embroidered waistcoat, followed by a precisely tied cravat and gold cufflinks that clicked softly into place.

With a final glance in the mirror, I imagined the kind of man who might appear there—poised, polished, and perfect—if ever a vampire like me could cast a reflection.

I sensed Alex’s arrival.

Swiftly, I took the steps three at a time down from the bedroom toward the entranceway. Distracted by thoughts of tonight’s plans, I forgot to wait for the knock on the door before I opened it. I quietly chastised myself for such thoughtlessness.

Alex inhaled, taken off guard. He admired my attire. I was dressed in the finest black linen, a style that was purely European.

“Good evening, Alex.” I stepped out, walking past him with a smile. I approached Alex’s horse and untied the beast, which initially seemed a little uncomfortable with me. I led the stallion into the stables situated at the side of the property. Alex followed and watched me position the horse in front of a drinking trough. It leaned its long neck toward the water and drank while I patted its neck. “Such a fine creature.”

“Thank you.” Alex studied me. “And thank you for yesterday.” He seemed a little nervous. “You risked your life, and for that I am deeply grateful.”

“It was a good thing I was there.” I stared at him intently.

“Yes,” he said.

I turned back to his horse. “You’re lucky. He’s of good stock, very well-bred.”

Alex appeared uneasy. “He’s my brother’s horse. Jadeon lets me ride him occasionally. Well, all the time, actually. Our father gave the stallion to him as a gift.”

“I see. And what was your gift from Lord Artimas?”

“Well, um . . . He did give me a new sword.”

“A new sword? How curious, to give your brother this fine horse, and you . . . a sword.” I tilted my head.

“I—I never thought of it like that.” Alex frowned. “But he might as well be mine. I ride him all the time.”

“But he’s not yours.”

“No, he’s not.”

“Fascinating,” I said.

“It’s not what you think.”

“And what is it that I think, Alex?”

“That my father favors Jadeon over me.”

I approached him and straightened his necktie. “The oldest is very often favored by the father and the youngest by the mother,” I said. “I expect your mother adores you.”

“I—”

“After all, Alex, you are possessed of a handsomeness not easily equaled. Women swoon at your feet and men . . . covet you.”

He was speechless.

“You have not yet realized your true potential. Perhaps that is where I come in?” I said.