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“Very.”
“Fuck. Thanks, man.”
“My pleasure.”
Nate opens the door to get out, but I stop him.
“Oh, and Nate?”
“Yeah?”
“There’s no such thing as vampires.” I wave my compulsion away as I start the car, leaving Nate slightly dazed on the sidewalk.
Smiling to myself, I head back to my rental. I’ll be paying Dan Reynolds a visit very soon. Slowly but surely, I’ll rid Neubrook of every kind of bully there is.
Ah, it’s good to be a vampire.
* * *
A week later, I stand behind Maren in the town square as reporters and citizens gather. We worked out a proposal and are ready to announce it to the public. In the short time since I’ve returned to Neubrook, I’ve managed to buy every empty and foreclosed property. It’s just a matter of time before I remake the town into my own personal haven.
I glance at my watch. I do need to get back to my personal business soon, but another hour or so won’t hurt.
As Maren steps up to the podium, the people quiet down. Up front and center is Garrett Landon. It’s the first time I’ve seen him this close since I arrived, and the sight does nothing to settle the rage inside me. He looks almost the same, but older, heavier, angrier. Like a man who knows his glory days are behind him.
Garrett is the king of the bullies, and he spent years making my life miserable. As tempting as it would be to take him out right now, I decided long ago that I would drag it out. Just like he spent years ruining my life, I’ll return the favor. He’ll crave his own death by the time I’m done with him.
He narrows his eyes at me but there isn’t even a hint of recognition. Not that I expected there to be. I doubt he even remembers what I used to look like. I was just an outlet to him. A weak and injured antelope to his lion.
“Thank you for joining us today,” Maren begins. “I have an exciting announcement. As all of you know, Neubrook has suffered economically for several years now, losing our youth and our businesses to the lure of new and glitzy areas. We’ve long wondered what we could do to make Neubrook attractive again.”
I glance around the crowd, noting those who look disapprovingly at Garrett as Maren discusses the town’s downfall. I also make note of those who seem agitated by the mayor’s preamble. I’m starting to learn this town may be more divided than it seems on the surface.
“In order to help us step into our rightful place, I’ve created a new role to assist. Please welcome Neubrook’s first official city planner, Michel Toussaint.”
A mixture of surprised gasps and murmurs ripple through the crowd. At least some of them remember my name. I step up to the podium, nodding my head at the smattering of confused applause.
“Thank you. Some of you may find my name familiar.” I turn my hard gaze to Garrett, who doesn’t seem to have made the connection yet. “Granted, it was many years ago. The last time some of you saw me was in high school.”
A flicker of panic flashes across Garrett’s face. Ah. He remembers now.
“I’ve been away for a decade now, cultivating my skills, and when my parents told me how Neubrook had fallen on hard times, I was compelled to return and help. Like Mayor George, I long to see Neubrook return to the idyllic place it once was.”
“What makes you qualified to do that?” A man yells from behind Garrett. I immediately recognize Ben as the man who spoke. Next to him is Nial. They haven’t changed much at all, except they appear older, like Garrett.
“I assure you my qualifications are well suited for the role, but the mayor’s office created a bio sheet we’ll be passing out.” Granted every credential is fabricated, but they don’t know that.
I glance across the crowd, noticing Nate in the back. He smiles and nods in acknowledgment. Slowly my eyes move across every face, pausing at my own parents who look on proudly, before moving back to Garrett.
“Let me be clear,” I begin again. “My plans for the city are aggressive but designed to improve everyone’s quality of living. I hope to bring in new jobs and businesses, restore run-down areas, and increase property values. I’ll be visiting with many of you to hear your concerns and learn how I can help.” I pause for effect. “Any opposition that stands in the way of progress will not be tolerated.”
“That’s right,” Maren says, standing beside me. “We’ve had enough starts and stops. It’s time to move forward as a community. Michel is the right person to take us there.”
I can feel the anger pouring off Garrett even from here. I’m sure he thinks I’ll be an easy target, as I once was, but he has no idea what he’s up against.
“To kick things off, next Saturday I’ll be hosting a masquerade ball. I fell in love with the tradition during my travels, and would very much like to bring a touch of intrigue and extravagance to Neubrook. The masquerades are invite only, but please know, if you aren’t invited this time, there’s always another opportunity. I look forward to getting to know you all again.”
I turn and walk away without waiting for questions. I told Maren earlier I had another appointment, and she agreed to field the media.
