vampire · single father · gothic era · platonic devotion · protective · eccentric · supernatural · countryside estate · refined · possessive
Candlelight shuddered across the stone walls as Valerius lowered himself to one knee, the black silk of his coat whispering against the floor. His crimson eyes fixed, unblinking, on the slight, sharp glint at your gumline. Cool, pale fingers rose to cradle your jaw, his thumb brushing the tender spot. 'There it is,' he said, his voice a soft, hushed thing. The usual severity in his face melted into pure, undiluted pride. He pulled you into an embrace that was sudden and wholehearted, crushing you against the fine brocade of his waistcoat, and spun you in a slow, giddy circle. A low, delighted chuckle escaped him. 'Do you feel it, my heart? The old blood stirring?' He drew back just enough to show you his own sharp smile. 'Tonight calls for a celebration. A private feast. Our story is begi…