24 what you know

Raige

I scoffed, his eyes narrowed. “Do you really think I’d tell you who I am? To someone I consider an enemy?”

I ignored him, my focus on getting Aliyah to safety. Heading towards the back of the property, I avoided the main path. My plan was to take her to my car without attracting any unwanted attention. I pulled out my phone and called my driver.

“Where are you taking her?” The man who’d helped Aliyah asked, his voice a low growl. He was still following us, his presence like a shadow, a silent guardian.

I couldn’t shake the feeling that he was something more than human. A hunter, maybe, but if he was, why wasn’t he attacking? Why just follow? Why only care about Aliyah?

“Don’t tell me you followed me all the way into my house. I can take care of Aliyah myself. Thank you for saving her. Is that what you want to hear before you leave us alone?”

The man scoffed. “I told you, my concern is for Aliyah. Not you or your words.”

I slipped Aliyah into my car, I turned to my driver, dismissing him with a wave of my hand. “You can go. I’ll drive.” securing her safely before turning back to the man. I crossed my arms, trying to calm my nerves. I didn’t want to fight him. Aliyah was just a few steps away from waking up, and I didn’t want her to see how dangerous I was.

“I’m her girlfriend, damn it! Do you think I can just trust you like that? Either answer my question or disappear.” My voice was calm but firm, laced with authority. The man, however, remained relaxed, his demeanor unfazed.

“Do you think she’s not more in danger with you? At least with me, she’s safe. I’m going to protect her, no matter what.”

“Protect her? Seriously? Why would you do that for a normal human girl, with nothing in return?” I asked, incredulous.

“I can’t tell a vampire like you. All I can promise is that I can protect her.”

I narrowed my eyes, my mind racing. There was only one reason that made sense, but it was a conversation I couldn't have here.

“Come with me. We’ll talk somewhere where no one can hear. I swear I won’t let you touch her.”

“How can I be sure you’re not going to sabotage me? What if you’re just playing tricks? Besides, you’re a vampire, your kind are known for their cunning.”

The man gave me a sardonic smile. “How about I give you a hint?”

He seemed unconvinced, but I pressed on, leaning closer, my voice barely a whisper. “Elixir…”

“What the… how did you…” His eyes widened in shock.

I gestured for him to get in the car. He didn't need a second invitation.

As I sped off, the man sat beside me in the passenger seat, while Aliyah lay secured in the back.

I pulled my car into the driveway of my mansion, a sprawling estate bathed in the soft glow of the moon. I slipped out of the car, heading to the backseat to retrieve Aliyah. The man was there, already opening the door for me.

Jammy stood frozen in the doorway, her face a mask of worry as she saw me carrying Aliyah. “What happened to her?”

I shook my head. “She just collapsed. I’m not sure if it was what she saw, or something else. This new friend of mine might have some answers…” I paused, gesturing to the man. “By the way, I’m Raige. This is my house. You’re safe here. This is Jammy, my servant.”

“I’m Ryan,” the man said, cutting to the chase. “Let’s cut to the chase. What do you know about…” He stopped mid-sentence, glancing at Jammy.

“Wait here. I’m going to put Aliyah to bed so she can rest. Jammy, come with me. Take care of Aliyah. This young man and I have a lot to discuss.”

******
Ryan


This wasn’t just a house. It was a mansion, a sprawling palace of wealth and power. I wondered if the man was being humble, or simply so rich that he couldn’t comprehend the difference between a simple house and this architectural masterpiece.

I waited in the grand living room, my gaze sweeping over the opulent furnishings, the intricate details of the room. Ten minutes passed, the silence broken only by the soft ticking of a grandfather clock in the corner. Then, I saw Raige descending the grand staircase, his steps sure and powerful.

“Now, let’s go to my office. We need to discuss what you know about the elixir.”

I nodded, agreeing that a more private setting was definitely preferable. However, I made a silent vow to myself to keep some of my knowledge hidden. I needed to know what he knew, and why.

We walked down a long hallway, the walls lined with portraits of people I assumed were his ancestors. It was a glimpse into a world I never knew existed. We stopped in front of a door, crafted from solid gold. It was an imposing sight, a testament to his wealth and power.

“This room is soundproof. No vampire outside can hear us.”

As the heavy gold door closed behind us, I took a moment to survey the office. It was simple, but with an air of understated elegance, a feeling that something more was hidden beneath the surface. It was a simple office, but who knew what enchantments were woven into its very walls to prevent any vampire from hearing our conversation?

“So, let’s talk. What do you know about the elixir?” I asked, wasting no time.

“My best friend, a hundred years ago, drank it. I was responsible for it. As you can see, I am a vampire. I can’t hide that from you. I assume you are a hunter? But why are you interested in Aliyah?”

His words sparked confusion. I couldn’t connect the dots between his best friend and Aliyah.

“I want you to tell me the truth, everything you know. And I assure you, I’ll do the same. Just promise me you won’t tell a soul.” Raige’s eyes were serious, demanding my trust.