Cake and Lace

Ms. Livingston, the family’s maid of sorts, was waiting patiently in the study. Ms. Livingston was not usually an up-tight person, especially when it came to the family’s daughter, Annabel. Moreover, Annabel herself was not one to order around. 1

Annabel, the seventeen year old daughter of the wealthy Clarks family, has been a rebel since childhood. She was always caught skipping lessons, and faking illness to get out of lessons early. Her tongue was sharp and her temper got the best of her often. Even as we speak, Ms. Clarks is sprawled across the study’s loveseat as she reads a book. Reading was the only aspect Annabel loved while in lessons. Her favorites included mythical stories, which for the longest time were banned in the Clarks’ home. “Rubbish” her aunt would call mythical stories. “Pathetic attempts at writing” Ms. Livingston said one day. Annabel eventually whined until the ban was lifted.2

Ms. Livingston sighed and tapped her foot impatiently as she examined Annabel’s bare leg hanging over the armrest. “Ms. Clarks, shall I remind you of your posture? Your aunt would strike you if she were to see you displaying such exposure,” Ms. Livingston stepped forward a few paces. Annabel ignored her and continued to read her book. “Ms. Clarks?”3

Annabel closed her book and waved a hand over the back of the loveseat, “Yes, Ms. Livingston, I heard you.” She sighed heavily and shut her book, startling Ms. Livingston.4

“Ms. Clarks, we should be leaving now. It is time I help you clean up for dinner.” 5

Annabel sighed, “Ms. Livingston, do you believe in myths?”6

With a sharp laugh, Ms. Livingston answered, “No my dear child, myths are fake stories the townspeople cook up. Come now, you must—“7

“Tell me; is it odd, then for me to believe them myself? Or does it depend on the myth itself that labels me a fool?”8

“Please, Ms. Clarks please tell me this is not more about your obsession with those...bloodsuckers, is it?” Ms. Livingston pierced the word as if it were an annoying flea on her skin.9

Now enlightened to have full attention upon her, Annabel swiveled around to look head on at her nanny. “And what if it is? They fascinate me to no end. From what I've read over the years, they seem to be beautiful creatures who are misunderstood in our world...people who want to fit into our way of life, but have trouble doing so. I think they need human help.”10

“What human in their right mind would aid such vile, evil creatures...?” Annabel fidgeted nervously under her nanny’s hanging words. “Young lady, you best change your ways before dinner tonight, or so help me I will lock you in the basement!”11

Before Annabel could reply, her cousin, Edgar, entered the study. Edgar was twenty years old with deep emerald eyes, and thick, dark hair tied into a tail at the brim of his neck. His stance, let alone looks, could silence a room of political leaders in an instant.12

Edgar’s eyes met Annabel’s, to Annabel’s posture, then the book she was reading. He turned to Ms. Livingston, as she shrugged in defeat and exited the room. Edgar refused to look back at his cousin as he spoke, “Annabel, your father and my mother are waiting. You know how they like to meet for dinner early.”13

“Why must I go? What if I'm not even hungry?” She answered while flattening her dress.14

Edgar smirked, walked slowly behind the loveseat and began tickling his cousin’s sides. “Because you are too slender, that is why. Tonight is also calling forth a special announcement.”15

“What for I wonder?”16

“My one and only cousin is to be wed soon, am I wrong? The townspeople gossip about how eighteen years of age is too old for a woman to be married. Best to be—“17

“--wed at a youthful age to bear many children.” They finished together. Annabel took a deep sigh. “My eighteenth birthday isn't for another week.” 18

“Do not fret, dear cousin, the Lord has someone planned for you. I promise you.” Somehow, Annabel could see that her cousin was hiding something behind his promise.19

* * * * *20

Later that same evening, the Clarks family was gathered around the dining table, finishing their five course meal. 21

“Thank you Ms. Livingston. That dessert was simply to die for!” Aunt Charlotte passed her dessert plate to her maid and slipped a lit cigarette through her lips to take a drag. Ms. Livingston nodded quietly and exited into the kitchen. 22

There were a few minutes of silence and nervous fidgeting before the head of the family, Richard Clarks spoke.23

“Daughter, I believe it is time we finalize your wedding plans.” 24

Annabel slammed her head on the dining table in disgust. The others looked at her alarmed, and Edgar reached for her.25

She did not understand why her whole family was attacking her in this way. Maybe she does not wish to marry at all? Annabel had never had a lover before. She wasn’t even sure what to look for in a husband! Annabel felt more alone than she ever had before. This was her battle, and she had to go into it unaccompanied.26

“We already tried to find me a husband. The ball this past weekend, remember? My luck was…terrible.”27

Though the ball was filled of unique dance experiences that resulted in no husband, Annabel had a Cinderellaesque ending that stuck with her since. She recalled the wonderful memory while the others spoke amongst themselves.28

Annabel was about to escape through the kitchen door, but took one last glance backward towards the dance floor. If it wasn’t for the dark and handsome man who was staring at her, she would have been in the confines of her bedroom the rest of the evening.29

Time seemed to slow around them as this lanky, yet intimidating man strode toward her. He bowed slightly, not taking his eerie, burgundy eyes away from her hazel ones.30

Her heart melted as he spoke in the most eloquent, old English accent, “Good evening, Ms. Clarks.”31

“H-hello…”32

The man chuckled under his breath. “I wish to have this dance with you.”33

Annabel nodded and placed her hand in his. “Sure, okay.” It took her a few moments to realize how cold the man’s hands were.34

The man led the waltz until they became center of attention in the middle of the ballroom. The guests hushed as they watched the beloved Clarks daughter dance with a man whom the town did not recognize.35

Annabel and her partner twirled in delight on the marble floor. The song seemed to last forever, if not until morning. Not once did they take their eyes off of one another, as did their smiles never relax. The mysterious man stroked Annabel’s cheek as they danced. She was beginning to sense a unique aura about him; something that told her that she needed him.36

The grandfather clock brought everyone back to reality as it stroke eleven. A majority of the guests began to gather their things to leave. Annabel and her dance partner, however; stood on the dance floor.37

Annabel roped her fingers through his, “Why must this perfect night end...”38

“…just when it finally began to get interesting?” The man finished Annabel’s words. 39

Edgar appeared suddenly, pulling on Annabel’s arms. “Annabel! It's time for us to go. The ball is over; everyone is leaving.” Annabel reluctantly followed her cousin, as she mouthed a goodbye to her guest. The lanky man stood among the scattering crowd, holding his hand to his lips, imprinting her scent into his mind.40

She wished to tell her family of her encounter with the mysterious guest, but feared her family would disregard her feelings towards him.41

“Annabel, you cannot run away from this forever. Your getting married is bound to happen.” Edgar added his two cents. There was a faint tremble to his voice.42

Aunt Charlotte took another long drag of her cigarette. “Yes, and that is no way for a lady your age to react to such news. You're going to send me to my grave the way you act sometimes. I feel as if you don't appreciate all the hard training I've put you through to make you acceptable to be wed to!” 43

Annabel raised her head slowly, and glared at her aunt. “And you will put me in the crazy house trying to think of how you and my wonderful mother were related with the way you act.” Everyone gaped at Annabel’s words, followed by more awkward silence. “I don't understand it! Edgar is twenty, and he has not been wed to a wife yet!”44

The silence was deafening until it was broken by a few nervous coughs. Annabel glanced quizzically between everyone.45

“What is going on? What are you all hiding?”46

Edgar rose from his chair, and stood next to Annabel. He meticulously took her hand to raise her from her own chair. “Annabel…I know this will seem strange. But Father, your Aunt Charlotte, and I think this would be the best decision for the sake of keeping the Clarks the strongest family known.”47

Annabel looked at Edgar, confused. “Edgar…what are you going on about?”48

Then Edgar knelt down to the floor on one knee, and asked for his cousin’s hand in marriage.49

* * * * *50

How ironic would it have been if Annabel had seen her mysterious waltzing partner on the same night as her engagement? The answer is: impossible, but it happened. Though Annabel had agreed to her cousin’s proposal, the only thing that kept her from saying no was her aunt’s gaze. Like a pair of gun barrels to her head, her aunt’s eyes waited for her reply. The pressure was so exhausting, that Annabel retreated to her bedroom soon after the proposal. All fears were lifted as soon as she stepped foot into her bedroom, and locked eyes with her mysterious waltzing partner from the week before.51

Annabel blinked once; he was still there outside her window. She blinked again and this time he stood inches in front of her. The moonlight washed over his pale features, making his skin an ivory white. His eyes were transfixed on the diamond that now claimed Annabel’s finger on her left hand. She hadn’t realized he was holding her hand with a saddened expression upon his face. 52

The silence between them was antagonizing. Annabel did not know what to say. Yes, she felt the need to be with the man who was standing in front of her, but she knew so little about him. Not thinking clearly, she tore her hand away from his. 53

“I’m sorry…I hardly know you and—“54

“That is why I am here. I want to talk with you.” Annabel gave him a confused expression. Annabel nodded in agreement.55

The man motioned her to sit with him on her bed. “Suppose my name is a proper way to start?” He smiled at her slyly.56

Annabel held in a giggle. “I suppose that is better. What is your name?”57

The man rose, bowed courteously and whispered, “My name is Everett Meinhardt. Apologies for not introducing myself at the ball.” As Everett raised his bowed head to meet Annabel’s eyes, her breath caught. His eyes were the most brilliant red she had ever seen, especially within the moonlit glow of her bedroom. A soft shine of pearl-white teeth could be seen through his parted lips. His sitting down again brought her back to his introduction. 58

“I was born in your town long, long ago. I’m not exactly…human, like you.” He rested his pale, frozen hand on hers. It surprised him that she did not flinch at his touch, like many had done before. “We thought it was hysterical when the humans asked us to give them our land. A war eventually broke out, slaughtering many on both sides. We made a pact with the humans, and were pushed westward, and out of our home.”59

“I see. So, why did you return?” Annabel asked.60

“I was traveling around the area, and felt the need to return. I heard about a ball, and wanted to have a little fun.” Everett smiled mischievously. “Then I saw you. I took notice how independent you are. You have free spirit inside you. Why is that?”61

Annabel figured the subject of her rebellious nature was to come at some point. She sighed and began, “I have been that way ever since I was a child. When my mother died, my aunt took me under her wing, but nonetheless it wasn’t the same. I felt the need to rely only on myself. I had my father and Edgar, but a growing girl needs a woman to look up to.”62

“I can understand that.”63

“Except my aunt is very strict, and forces me to be someone I do not wish to become. I sometimes read mythical stories in my free time. I pray to be free, like the many fictional character I read about.” 64

Everett lifted Annabel’s saddened face by her chin to grasp her attention. “Ms. Clarks, you are truly the most beautiful creation I have seen in all my years. I wish I could steal you away from here, and make you happy for all eternity.”65

Tears began to blur Annabel’s vision. “Then why don’t you? I don’t want to live my life under constant ridicule and expectations. I cannot marry my own cousin who is like my brother!”66

“I’m afraid I cannot take you. Like I have previously said, I am not one of your kind. I’m of a different species; a different way of living. One I cannot allow you to be a part of.”67

“Try me.” Annabel snapped.68

“I am a vampire, Annabel. I am a bloodthirsty, dangerous creature of the night. I know you know what a vampire is. I have searched your mind, and know that you have read about my kind.” 69

That was the moment everything hit Annabel at once. The ruby eyes, pale, cold skin, and how he knew what others were thinking; it all made sense now. Everett Meinhardt was a fully fledged vampire.70

“I don’t care.” She answered. Her wildest dream had finally come true, and she wasn’t letting it escape her. “Change me, and take me with you.” She begged.71

“I’m sorry, Annabel. I cannot do that to someone I care for.” 72

Before Annabel could react, Edgar began knocking on her door. “Annabel? Everything will be okay. I know this arrangement has made things awkwardly unbearable, but I promise this is for the best.”73

The silence was heavy, even more so with a wall keeping them separated. Edgar rattled the doorknob. Annabel began to panic; she knew Edgar was opening the door with the lock tricks she and he used when they were younger. Everett still sat beside Annabel, his eyes glittering crimson and his lips in a tight smile.74

Everett knew the precise moment Edgar was to unlock the door. He whispered hurriedly, “Become one of us, and you’d be with me. To stay here, you will never get the freedom you want. You will search and fight your whole life, only to no avail. Please, Annabel. Make a wise decision in this. And begging me only makes it harder for me.”75

Annabel blinked away her tears in time to see Edgar emerging, a candlestick in hand. “Am I hallucinating or was I hearing other voices coming from your room?” 76

“No. No other voices. Only me. Now please, let me be alone.” Her words flowed together in monotone. 77

Edgar sighed and placed the melting candle on her bedside table. He gingerly stroked her back, as he did many times as when they were children. “Good night, Annabel.”78

She was relieved to hear the door lock behind her cousin. She waited for Everett to return, but he never showed. Still wide awake with tension, Annabel began sorting through the many thoughts which now hung in the air. The invitation to run away, be with Everett, and be free seemed to be the most appetizing to her nerves. Edgar, however; was holding her back. She loved her cousin, but with limitations. Never until now did she imagine baring children with him! Annabel cried herself to sleep that night, under the watch of Everett in her window and Edgar outside her door. 79

* * * * *80

The wedding was scheduled to be the day after Annabel’s eighteenth birthday. Despite Aunt Charlotte’s anxiety, the family agreed to allow Annabel to be a “girl” for one more day. In exchange, Annabel was to be considered a “woman” the next day; the day of her wedding.81

Today is Annabel’s eighteenth birthday.82

The ballroom was decorated for Annabel’s birthday ball. Roses, lilies, and orchids lined the gardens outside and tabletops inside. The guests were more of whom Annabel was not familiar with, but thankfully there were less men who attended. “The green monster is latched onto their shoulders, my dear.” Ms. Livingston told Annabel. This was partially true, considering most business leaders were already jealous of Edgar’s power in the business world.83

Ms. Livingston helped Annabel into her evening gown. Now to be considered a woman by age, her gown exposed her neck and shoulders. The red color of the gown stood out against the guests’ formal attire, and it faded downward into a pale pink with a black, rose-like embroidered lace on the bottom hem. To top off the elegance, Annabel’s brunette curls were gathered into a beautiful flower-like bouquet on the crown of her head. 84

Annabel examined herself in the large vanity mirror before attending her ball. She looked paler than usual, what with her nerves and the bright red clashing with her white skin. She felt beautiful, pure, and elegant. Though she felt like something was missing in her reflection. The bright red fabric in her gown reminded her of Everett’s eyes. More than anything, she wanted to run away with him, if only he was present. She refused to let that emptiness ruin her birthday nonetheless.85

The whole night seemed to be a blur. She was running on auto-pilot; saying and doing the things she was taught to say and do. Her performance was not Annabel Clarks, but rather Aunt Charlotte. For years, her aunt spent time teaching Annabel how to act like a proper young lady. She would have acted like herself tonight, if it wasn’t for the pact the family agreed to the previous day.86

The music shifted to an upbeat waltz, and Edgar pulled his fiancée to the dance floor.87

“You look absolutely stunning,” he said quietly as he pulled Annabel into a warm embrace. A few bystanders “awed” in response, including Mr. Clarks, Aunt Charlotte, and Ms. Livingston. 88

“I’m so sorry about this arrangement. Please, before tomorrow, can you find it in your heart to forgive me?” Annabel opened her mouth to speak, but was interrupted by Edgar’s lips pressed onto hers. A shiver ran down Annabel’s spine. The kiss was a forced action, something Annabel was not used to her cousin performing on her. It felt foreign, and strange. When the kiss ended, she still had no time to reply. “Annabel, let this be the best birthday you will ever have. You may now be a woman, but I know your heart is still the child I grew up with.” 89

Looking at her cousin at arms length, she could see the stress lines that have recently grown around his eyes. His eyes looked darker, and weak. She rested a hand on his cheek, as he closed his eyes. “Thank you. To be honest, I don’t want this between us. I wish--” Her words faded as her eyes found the familiar, blinding smile of Everett Meinhardt. Edgar’s eyes opened, and followed Annabel’s gaze. 90

“Annabel, who is that man?” Edgar said coldly. Annabel and Edgar continued to watch Everett as he made his way towards them, and bowed.91

“Please, sir, may I have this dance with the birthday girl?” Annabel slipped a light giggle, which startled Edgar. Edgar’s emerald eyes bore into Everett’s ruby eyes, as if trying to telepathically say something. Everett nodded, ignoring the death glare, and began dancing with Annabel.92

“He is worried about my being with you. I have not literally met him yet.” Everett said sternly.93

Annabel nodded in agreement and rested her head on his broad chest as they danced. The musicians played their music with such passion, that each note was carefully played. The waltz was calming to the ear, as were the steps of Annabel and Everett’s feet moving as one. As the music shifted to a more jazzy sound, Everett paused to take Annabel’s hands, and led her into the gardens outside.94

Everett was quick enough, that the other Clarks and guests didn’t notice their leaving. 95

The gardens were lit by lanterns, creating pathways through the earns and terraces. A fountain bubbled softly nearby. Flowers of many origins created a unique mixture in the night air. 96

Everett gradually took Annabel into his cold, hard arms, and pressed his lips to hers. Annabel enjoyed the cold pressure on her lips. She felt she could breathe freely. Annabel locked her slender arms around his neck, and brought him closer to her. Everett chuckled darkly under his breath as he, too brought Annabel closer, and grazed his fingers across her bare neck. Their lips unlatched, and Everett whispered, “I love you Annabel. I cannot return to my people without you. But, if I were to stay with you, I would eventually be found out. They would lynch me and burn the pieces within minutes.” 97

“Then transform me now. Give them a reason to lynch me with you.”98

Everett shook his head. “No! Are you crazy? I will not allow that to happen to you!”99

“Please, Everett. I have never wanted anything more in my whole life than to be free from the people in that ballroom. I love you too much to let you leave, and I want you to take me with you.” A silent tear of despair falling down her rosined cheek was all it took to make Everett give in. He slowly leaned down to kiss Annabel’s neck, and pierced her throat with his fangs. The deep red blood cascaded down her neck. Annabel’s vision became a disarray of colors, and her breathing quickened. The venomous pain began shearing away her insides until she felt numb. The transformation was quick, though she felt weakened by it. He cradled her limp body in his arms. A small smile broke across Annabel’s lips.100

Everett did not want to live with the burden of changing her, but she wished it otherwise. If the night had gone any other way, Annabel would have had to continue with marrying her cousin, and go on without Everett – which bothered him. He loved her too much to watch her live a miserable and unfulfilled life. Annabel was to be young and free forever, and with the man of her mythical stories.101