Mirror

I've stayed here for a very long time now. How long, I cannot remember, maybe too long. But there are still things I will never forget. One would be the day I met you.1

The dear smile of yours as you entered my dark mansion – the curious twinkle in your eyes as you rambled your questions. I answered them all with a little smile round the edge of my lips. Yes, I remember that. That day you came; I smiled at a person for the first time my lover decided the house wasn't good enough for him.2

You had a frown when you saw his photo and you asked me in that child-like voice of yours whether he was somebody I loved. You were thinking then about whether I would accept you into my life. With the same smile, I told you he didn't exist in life anymore.3

You laughed, correcting me, telling me I had missed the word 'my'. I laughed as well and made the excuse that I was trying to see if you were paying attention, too see if you were too attracted yet.4

I walk to the mirror. It is dusty, and I cannot see my reflection. Still, I must admit I was pretty in an odd way - not pretty like my mother was, but in my own unique way. It was no wonder you grew to love me.5

We would spent days, cooped up in my mansion - playing hide-and-seek, dancing or maybe even reading in the massive library my mansion hides. Over the time, you began to notice how I had no mirrors. I told you - a mirror caused my loved one to leave. You accepted my reason, but bought me one anyway. The dusty and unused one I now stand in front of.6

I walk, studying every piece of artifact in my mansion, not fearing the silence. I had lived in silence before I met you. I will once again, but not perhaps, without a companion?7

I come to the cupboard. Opening it, I discover the music box you had gave me for my birthday - inside hides the ruby ring of our engagement.8

You had asked me for my favourite jewel - that day before you had asked for my hand. I told you - Ruby, because it was the colour of blood, that very same liquid that provides life. At your expression, I laughed and pointed out it was my birthstone.9

And now, you sit in the living room, on the sofa – lifeless and deep in thought. Your eyes are wide opened - in shock. Was it because I told you my previous lover was dead? It is not my fault you saw his tomb! I told you never to go out into the garden...10

Remember I said my lover left me because of a mirror? The look in your eyes told me you were going to go too.11

Oh, I couldn't let you go! You were the first one to make me smile, the first one to make me laugh since so long ago - since he tried to leave.12

I slip my hand round your waist. Your red shirt is soaked but I do not care. "I'm sorry," I whisper, "I lied to you. I was born in August, and embraced in July. You won't blame me, will you?"13

There is no reply. Silence is consent.14

I sink my fangs into your neck, knowing you will not blame me. You will never speak against me.15

And guess what else I know?16

I know you'll be with me forever and a day.17