CHAPTER ELEVEN

The air was filled with the smell of breakfast cooking. Lazily, I rolled over in the bed to find Daniel missing. He must be downstairs in the kitchen. I rolled back over in the bed and glanced at the clock. It was already 7:30 and Friday. This pregnancy was really going to take a bit of getting used to.

Moving slowly because I was still sleepy, I trailed my way into the bathroom for a shower. Dressing promptly, I finally managed to pad my way down the stairs into the kitchen. Daniel hovered over the gas range cooking. Heather and Jason sat at the table with a plate of breakfast before them, watching television.

Daniel looked up as I moved past him to the coffee.

“Good morning.” He was so chipper.

“Morning,” I mumbled, not exactly chipper.

Daniel moved to give me a kiss on the cheek. “I have something I think will wake you up this morning,” he replied, smiling broadly.

My sleepy eyes lifted to his. Raising my eyebrow, I glanced at the stove. What?

What other than a strong cup of coffee could wake me up this morning? I wondered what he was up to.

“Go! Sit! I will bring it to you,” he said as he slapped me on the rump.

With a slight jump, I gave him a disapproving look, telling him to “behave”. Daniel laughed and waited until I joined Heather and Jason before bringing out my surprise.

Once seated, coffee secured and fork in hand, I waited. Daniel placed in front of me what appeared to be a quiche. I twisted my lips to the right, then left. It wasn‟t a dish I was prepared for. Oh well, it did smell good. Daniel waited with anticipation as I forked the first piece in my mouth. Allowing the flavors to linger a moment, I contemplated my response. Onions, ham, chives, cheese, and that‟s when the tanginess hit me. It actually tingled on my taste buds. I was experiencing a very favorable sensation.

“What is that?” My eyes widened, suddenly I was fully awake.

Heather laughed lightly. Daniel and Jason both let out soft chuckles.

“That my dear is a special feta cheese. A special roasted tomato feta cheese. Heather brought it back from Scotland,” Daniel said proudly.

“It is absolutely wonderful in this quiche!” I turned to Heather.

“Actually, Daniel was the one with the idea to put it in the quiche. It‟s his recipe,”

Heather announced sporting a wide grin.

“We must have more of this,” I said ravishing the rest of the piece.

Daniel checked his watch. “Julie,” he began, “we are meeting with the current leader of the Council at noon.”

The way he made the statement caused my appetite to fade. I was already a bundle of nerves. The day had finally come. What was this person going to do to Daniel and me?

What terrible things would we have to endure? How would all of this work to rid us of this animalistic desire? Or what if this wasn‟t all they were trying to strip from us? These thoughts ran through my mind with the speed of light.

“Julie,” Daniel began softly. “It‟s going to be okay. Whatever it is, we‟ll make it through this together.”

I stared into his eyes. He was right, Daniel was always right. We would make it through this together. It was only a matter of time until we would have to face the inevitable.

Heather and Jason decided to be helpful by taking off to the grocery store, via limousine service. Daniel and I spent the rest of the time preparing. He drove us silently to his father‟s home where we were to meet the Head of the Council.

When we arrived, I had no idea what to expect. I half expected the house to be dark, candles lit all around, eerie music playing, and men in black robes holding candles, or swords. Daniel gave me a stern look, apparently disappointed by my exaggerated expectations. I just shrugged my shoulders and walked through the front door.

Once inside, I slid my hand around Daniel‟s as we walked into the formal living room. Thomas and Charlotte were sitting in their favorite chairs. On the sofa, sitting alone was one man. He appeared to be older than Thomas. Much older, around late sixties, I guessed. His hair was silver gray and his face was slightly more wrinkled, but he was tall and largely built. When he stood, he was as tall as Daniel. His eyes were a mixture of blues and browns. It was a little odd and I noticed it immediately.

“Clayton Powers, I would like to introduce you to my fiancée, Julie Knight.” Daniel gave me a push forward.

“Julie,” he began with a warm smile as he extended his hand out for mine. “It‟s a true pleasure to finally meet you. I‟ve heard so many wonderful things. Your father was an important person to us.”

“It is my pleasure.” I reached for his hand. “I hope Daniel hasn‟t been telling all my secrets.” Humor always seemed to break the ice and my nervousness.

He chuckled softly. “No, actually that was Thomas who spilled your secrets.

However, I promise to keep them.” His mouth broadened into a smile. “Daniel, she‟s as lovely as you described and a very fine choice for you. She‟s a strong woman. A true warrior.” His eyes twinkled with delight.

“Yes, she is.” Daniel returned proudly.

“Julie, I want to personally apologize to you for the rest of the Council members not being here. It seems that we are being targeted by werewolves. At this very moment, there are two of my best men outside this house. This is why we chose to do this in the daylight hours. I hope you understand the severity of this matter.”

I nodded and remained silent.

“Well, I‟m a man who believes in getting to the point. So, shall we begin?” He stood back, positioning himself in front of Daniel and me. Thomas and Charlotte moved behind him.

“Julie, since your father or mother is no longer present to represent you, Thomas has taken charge for you. Is this acceptable?” Clayton Powers began.

I nodded. My heart raced. What was he going to do?

“All right. Thomas, do you agree and decree that Julie Ann Knight is of the Lycan blood line?” Clayton Powers asked out loud.

“Yes.” Thomas stated.

“Do you also declare and decree your acceptance of her marriage to Daniel James Maxwell?”

“Yes.”

“Charlotte, do you declare and decree Daniel James Maxwell is of the Lycan bloodline?”

“Yes, I do,” Charlotte replied softly.

“Do you also declare and decree your acceptance of his marriage to Julie Ann Knight?”

“Yes, I do.”

“Very well then.” Clayton Powers motioned for Daniel and me to move closer to him. He took a slow breath and exhaled as he closed his eyes for a long moment. I watched in curiosity as he slowly opened his eyes.

Clayton didn‟t speak at first. It was as if he was looking past Daniel and me, his eyes focused on something we couldn‟t see. His attention fell upon us, coming back into the present.

“You both have endured much, strained your abilities. Stressed and pushed Fate, wielding her in your favor. However, this is not going to be a test of your wit, my children. The Rite by itself is a mystery, an unknown force that dwells around us. It forces us into what we are to become by fulfilling the paths Fate has chosen for us. We cannot wield a sword against Fate, for she is the only one who chooses our paths.

“By Rite, you shall have the power to control the rage that wells within you. You will have seven days to endure the Rite. If you both survive, you will have completed it.

“The Rite cannot be told or explained to you. It is something designed by your own purpose to test you in ways you could never imagine. This is the sole reason no one can talk about or explain it. For everyone, the Rite is different. For some it is painful and life threatening. It is dangerous and treacherous. But if you choose to continue, then you will reap the rewards.

“If in one moment‟s time your faith is broken by these tests, you will both be divided. Then you both shall fail, and the bond you share will be broken and lost forever. Please understand when I say this. It is unfortunate that you are with child.”

As soon as he stated that, my heart froze in my throat. Fear ran through me like a bolt of lightning. Daniel squeezed my hand tightly, a gentle reminder he was with me.

“Because of the greatness,” Clayton began again, “which Fate has in store for you both, a high call awaits you and at a very high price. You have to determine now if this is worth all that awaits you. Do you accept the challenges?”

Daniel and I looked at one another. Fate help us. “Yes.” We both said at the same time.

“The first test will break your wills. The second test will test the heart of the wolf inside of you. The third test will be one of greatest importance, choice. I so decree and declare it by Fate herself. The beginning of the next full moon the Rite shall begin!”

Clayton placed both hands on Daniel and me. It felt like an electrical bolt shot through his hands into us. Whatever this man was, he was powerful. Daniel was to take this man‟s place? Wait, the next full moon would be Sunday! Our test would begin on the same day we were meant to visit my family.

Thomas and Charlotte moved to Daniel and me as Clayton stepped back. Charlotte of course, had tears in her eyes. Thomas appeared to be a little weary. I, on the other hand, was a little disappointed. I thought it was going to be more than this. Some elaborate beating of some sort. I could tell Daniel was thinking along the same lines. He was actually thinking he was going to have to watch me while they beat me. I bit my bottom lip, and placed my hand over my mouth, fighting the urge to laugh at his thoughts.

“Well, I suppose we will meet back up Monday morning?” Thomas stated to Daniel.

“Monday it is. Clayton?” Daniel looked up to the older man. “Thank you.”

“Don‟t thank me just yet.” He carried a look of remorse.

Daniel nodded then slid his arm around my waist. It was time for us to leave. I nodded to Clayton Powers. His eyes were sad and my heart dropped to the pit of my stomach. What had I gotten myself into? Am I supposed to expect some strange occurrence of events in the next two days? I feared the worse this time.

The tests that were to come would be of a natural occurrence. Our very will would be tested. Even our hearts and our love would not be exempt. Above all these things, we would have to make a choice. What kind of event would be as intense as this? Yes, I feared the worst.

At least I understood why no one could talk about the Rite and explain it in detail to us. You never knew what it was. There was no way to describe it. It was a series of events to test you beyond your comprehension. How could you describe it? There were no words. I could only hope we had the strength that everyone believed we had to endure this. Only time would tell.

Daniel and I returned to the house to find Heather and Jason still out shopping.

Both of us had decided to let Fate run its course, and we agreed not to worry unless we had reason.

We walked through the house into the living room. Daniel headed to the bathroom while I lingered. My mind was still in pretty much a whirl. There was so much going on around us. Sitting down on the sofa, I decided I needed something to take my mind off things. A movie would be nice.

Daniel came through the living room and paused behind me.

“I am going to run out for a bit.”

“For?” I said as I turned around to face him.

“Well, I really think it is time for another car. So…” He raised his eyebrows.

“No.” I said with a smirk on my face. “I don‟t want to go with you.”

Daniel chuckled softly. “I did not think you would. I will be back soon. Promise.”

“Daniel, please don‟t buy anything extreme.” I pleaded. My words almost came out in a whine.

Leaning over the sofa, he placed a kiss on my lips. “I will only pick out something safe for you and junior.”

“Junior?” I jumped back in surprise. “What makes you think it‟s a boy?”

“Well,” he grinned. “It could be a girl.”

I grinned and shook my head. “Let‟s just concentrate on one thing at a time shall we?”

“Car.” Daniel gave me another kiss. “Be back in a few.”

I suppose it was about time for a new car. I just hoped he wouldn‟t buy something big, like some big boat of a car. Absolutely no way was I going to drive that. I loved my little car. But this was something Daniel wanted to do, and it was a task I needed to trust him with. I was sure he would do just fine.

I turned on the television wanting something to preoccupy my mind. My thoughts of a nice movie, however, were interrupted as the doorbell rang. I leaned forward then peered toward the front door. Oh dear Fate, it was Richard again. Does he just wait for Daniel to leave, then show up? How is it he always knows when I‟m alone? Was he stalking me? Wearily I stood and walked to the door.

“Should I even bother asking?”

Richard‟s expression was grim. The purplish circles under his eyes told me something was wrong. Even as beautiful as he was, Richard looked like crap. It took an average of two seconds before his presence stirred something inside of me. Damn it! I swore to myself. What was it about him? His build? His inhumanly beautiful features?

The way the soft blond and brown tones blended in those locks of hair? Was it the lean but strong muscular build? The kind of sex appeal that made a woman weak at the knees? Could it be those lips? The lips that was capable of such a powerful and sensual kiss. To deliver such a kiss that left you breathless and wanting more of him. The kind of kiss that could make a woman swoon in his arms. The kind of kiss that made you call out his name. The name of the vampire….

“Julie…” he began. “There are some things about me you do not understand.”

I hadn‟t realized my thoughts had drifted so far. I gathered my thoughts and returned my full attention to him.

“You‟re right, Richard.”

He looked up toward the top of the house. There was something more on his mind.

I could sense it. He was not acting like himself. Richard was always too in control. His attitude was confident. The confidence of knowing he could have anything he wanted and anyone.

“Should I take the chance and let you in?” I questioned his expression.

“Yes.” His voice was flat.

I stepped aside against my better judgment, allowing him to enter. This time I motioned for him to have a seat in the living room. There at least, I could keep him at a distance. “So what‟s wrong, Richard? You look worse than the living dead.”

His eyes narrowed toward me. “Living dead, huh?” He forced out a small smile.

“The other day, when I was here…I,”

“You were going to bite me?” My eyes narrowed.

“Yes. I wanted to very badly. But when you swooned in my arms, I could not. You were so beautiful. Then when you came to my home…”

“Richard, why?” I wasn‟t afraid just annoyed.

“I tried to tell you. I am drawn to you. There is something about you. Never before have I come across something like this. It is you, Julie. I cannot help how I feel. I only want you. Not just your blood, but all of you.” Richard‟s tone was firm.

He was not pleading. No, not Richard. He was honest. Richard sat on the sofa and rested his elbows on his knees. His beautiful face was in torment. What did he expect I could do? What did he want me to say?

“Richard.” I began as I tried to gather my own thoughts. “If this is something you can‟t control then why are you here?”

“Because I cannot stay away from you. My desire for you has driven me to the point …almost to the point I have to have you.” His eyes locked on mine.

Cold chills ran down my spine. What was he trying to say? Should I be afraid of him? At this point, I didn‟t know what to think. My senses burned, warning me of him.

And that warning tolled like large church bells on Christmas Day.

“Is it because I remind you of Juliet?”

“No.” He frowned slightly, appearing insulted.

“What then?”

“I told you. I am drawn to you. The attraction for me is greater than you can imagine.” He stood up, turned and walked to the bar. “I know you are with Daniel. This makes it an even greater challenge for me. You are something I can‟t stop thinking about.

You haunt me. “

“Richard, I can‟t offer you anything. I‟m going to marry Daniel. I told you this. I‟m even pregnant.” I spoke softly. In a way, I felt sorry for him.

Richard turned. His eyes sadder than before. Hearing this news, he should know that I was truly Daniel‟s. Maybe this would give him an incentive to try a bit harder to control himself.

He lowered his head and inhaled a deep breath, then nodded. “You can offer me one thing.” He spoke almost in a whisper.

“What would that be?” I wondered. Almost biting my tongue for asking a question to which I already knew the answer.

His eyes hopeful, he answered. “Your companionship.” He paused, contemplating his thoughts carefully. “At least if I am around you more, maybe it would help. When I am away from you… I long to be near you.”

I almost didn‟t believe him. “Friendship? Is that what you are willing to accept?”

He nodded. Richard smiled gratefully. I motioned for him to sit back down. He returned to the sofa and his demeanor was less threatening. I could almost feel the peace flow over him. Richard was satisfied, at least for the moment. I could offer him friendship. At least I thought I could. It was worth a try. Still, I wondered if he knew the effect he had on me? Did he know I was drawn to him? Could he know about the feelings of desire that his mere presence evoked?

“I will have to warn you though. If you do try anything like that again, I may kill you. Nothing personal. It‟s just a pregnancy thing.” I wrinkled my nose then smiled.

He laughed softly. “Nothing personal? Well, I guess if I were to bite you it would be a vampire thing? Nothing personal, of course.” His eyebrow rose.

“Let‟s try not to think about that, shall we?” I teased.

“Deal.” He smiled broadly. It was good to see him smile. “But, of course, you know I am a vampire. I may not be trusted.”

“Richard, a deal‟s a deal. I am holding you to it.” I stated firmly.

I was more curious than ever. He was satisfied with our masochistic friendship.

What would drive him to such levels of torture? Was he really that lonely after all those years? Did being a vampire make him half insane? Or did he have alternative reasons for this friendship? He was right. I couldn‟t trust him, not completely. Fear him. Now that was what I could do. I tried to think on the brighter side. Maybe he was longing for companionship. This brought to my mind, Casey, my best friend.

“Have you heard from Casey and Nathaniel?” I asked hoping to hear good news.

His face brightened immediately. “Yes, I spoke with Nathaniel yesterday. He and Casey are still in France.”

“How‟s she doing? I mean has she…” I was almost afraid to ask the question. I mean, how do you ask if your best friend has turned vamp?

Richard nodded. “Yes, Casey has made the change. I suppose you could say she is doing well.”

I couldn‟t help myself from prying. My attention was immediately drawn to the way he spoke the words “I suppose”.

“What‟s wrong? I mean is she okay?” My voice was filled with concern.

He laughed softly. “Yes. She is fine. She…” He frowned slightly. “Appears to be having a little problem.”

I wasn‟t exactly sure what to expect. The humor on Richard‟s face didn‟t match the fear in my heart. I soon learned the truth. Within a few minutes, I found myself laughing loudly at Casey‟s expense as Richard proceeded to share a few stories with me as told to him by Nathaniel.

One of which, Richard mentioned, occurred while he was on the phone with his brother. Nathaniel had taken Casey hunting, more for her benefit than his. He said Nathaniel was talking to him on the phone, and trying to talk to Casey at the same time while watching her hunt. Nathaniel would say a few words, then stop in mid-sentence and begin calling out a bevy of pleas to Casey to watch out. Richard said it was probably the most hilarious thing he had ever heard. Then all of a sudden, Nathaniel gasped a loud breath of air, and then dropped the phone. Richard said he could hear what sounded like a mountain lion in the background roaring loudly. Next came Casey screaming, followed by Nathaniel‟s excited and very alarmed voice swearing loudly. He assured me the swearing was not at Casey. The animal she was trying to have for dinner didn‟t seem to be particularly cooperative with her. From the sounds of it, the animal was trying to have Casey for dinner.

Tears were streaming down my face as I laughed. I could visualize the event as Richard told me the story. I reminded him that was pure Casey. Even as a vampire, she was never going to live down her natural blonde beauty. Richard assured me Casey would get the hang of it. I mentioned to him if anything ever happened to Nathaniel, I could only hope they would have a drive thru made for vampires. Casey wouldn‟t stand a chance on her own. He laughed loudly. We both agreed that we hoped it would never come to such an end.

“I suppose I have taken enough of your time.” He spoke softly.

Glancing at my watch, I realized it was already four. No one had returned. I couldn‟t understand why everyone had such a long afternoon. Smiling to myself, I, too, had a long evening. And I had enjoyed it with Richard.

“Richard, I did enjoy this afternoon.” I smiled as we both rose to our feet.

His smile broadened. “Julie, I did as well. It has been many years since I have enjoyed the company of a woman. A woman such as yourself.”

I walked him to the door and he lingered a moment. The uncomfortable feeling swept over me again. It was an awkward feeling, and I wasn‟t sure how to approach this sudden situation. Under normal circumstances, I would have given him a hug. He looked as though he needed one. But I remained still. Inside of me, I could feel the caution ringing loudly. My heart mourned for him, but my senses warned me to be wary of this beautiful creature.

“Julie, again, it was a pleasure.” He finally spoke up.

“Yes, it was.” I smiled warmly.

He opened the door and stepped outside. My heart was somewhat saddened.

Richard, although he was a vampire would have really made someone a wonderful husband. He was beautiful, charming and very delightful.

“I hope to see you again.” A slight frown crossed his face. “Be careful. The werewolves are still growing in their numbers.”

“Have you ever found out what they are searching for?”

He glanced away, turning his attention to his car. “Not at the present time.” Slowly his gaze turned to meet mine. “I will find out what it is they are searching for. I promise.”

Richard was telling me the truth. He would find out. I realized for the moment, he was trying to be more human. At least I thought he was, showing me a softer side of him, a more human side. Maybe it was all that was left after all those centuries of being a vampire. Nevertheless, we gave what each of us could offer, a friendship.

“Thank you.” I spoke softly.

“Julie,” he paused, his expression firm and serious. “I will protect you and your unborn child. This feeling I have… I cannot deny it.”

“Richard…” I began and stopped as he raised his hand.

“You have given me your friendship. I shall regard this highly. I give you protection. You should do the same.”

“And is this the nature of a vampire to protect others?” I asked only because I was concerned. I didn‟t want to give him the wrong impression.

“It is only the nature of a vampire to protect when it is something worth protecting.

Something he considers valuable.” He warned.

I nodded. Richard turned and walked off to his car. I folded my arms across my chest as I watched him drive off in his manly Mustang. He was truly an interesting person. My thoughts fluttered back to Casey, poor thing. She was lucky to have Nathaniel. I knew in my heart they were meant to be together. Casey, as dingy as she was, needed someone like Nathaniel, someone who was patient and loving. It took a vampire to win her heart. And I‟m sure he saved her from a lifetime of pain. Many men could be caught up in her beauty, but how many of them would appreciate her heart? I was sure in that one dreadful night, it was Nathaniel. His eyes told me he loved her. He carried the same look as Daniel did. The unconditional love, the type of love you would die for. This was what she needed. I was happy for her that she found it, even if it did come with a price. She would make it. I was sure of it.

An hour after Richard left, I prepared dinner. It was around five when Heather returned via limousine with the trunk filled full of groceries. Daniel pulled into the driveway in my car followed by Jason driving a brand new sporty SUV. It was a Mercedes. Yes, he surprised me.

Daniel couldn‟t resist showing off the new purchase. He stressed the importance of the safety features. Also, how easy it would be for me to access our little one. He even mentioned he special ordered a car seat for the baby. I have to say, I was a little more surprised about Daniel‟s enthusiasm with the pregnancy. This child was already loved dearly by his or her father.

The long day had ended, and I was exhausted as I dragged myself to bed. Daniel was still chatting with Heather and Jason downstairs, but I couldn‟t keep my eyes open another moment.

Climbing into bed, my eyes closed and I was already falling asleep before my head was even resting comfortably on the pillow. Tonight, I needed the rest. Tomorrow would be another day.