Chapter 22 Home at Last Once they arrived, Kie personally oversaw the transfer of his loved ones back to their home with added security and comfort in mind, and a team of skilled healers and guards stood watch around the clock. Bella wanted to be with her mom so he had her bed placed next to Raven's but He told her whenever she was ready she could have her own room. Brent agreed as he came in to check on them. Sam had taken his old room back and moved in there. Kie had a recliner between Raven and Bella's bed. with Lucas's bed across the room As the days passed, Lucas slowly began to stir, their minds and bodies healing from the trauma they had endured. Raven, too, showed signs of improvement, with each passing day. Kie was overjoyed to see them recovering, and he spent every spare moment by their sides, holding their hands, and talking to them, willing them to come back to him fully. "Kitty!" Bella said as she reached for scuttlebutt. He was more than happy to get pets and belly r

Chapter 24 Niklaus Pays a VisitKen learns that Marie's mother, also named Marie Laveau, was a powerful voodoo priestess who had a secret relationship with the inn's former tenant, Jacques Saint Clair, one of the oldest Vampires in New Orleans. Kie, says that he has heard his Father mention Marie in the past and that he would be coming soon to meet his Grandaughter, Bella.. and they could ask him about her. He asked Lyra to reserve four rooms for them. She goes to her laptop to make the reservations. My heart skips a beat when I hear that he's coming. *********************** Niklaus arrives.. Kie's father, Niklaus, a towering figure with piercing deep blue eyes His long hair drapes down his back. He is powerful and has a commanding presence, He walks into the lobby, where we all are waiting to greet him. His gaze scans the space until it lands on Bella. A soft smile spreads across his face, and he kneels, his long coat billowing around him."Bella, my little princess," he says, hi

Chapter 26 The Secret Garden As my health continues to improve, I am eager to return to my Bed and Breakfast, the charming inn, That Kie helped me to build from the home, that I inherited from my adopted parents. I missed the warmth and comfort of The Mystic Manor, the cozy rooms, and the friendly guests. Brent and Lyra, my sister and brother-in-law, have been managing the inn in my absence, but I know they are eager to have me back at the helm. I'm grateful for their support and help, but she's ready to take the reins again. As I walked through the lobby the wood floors creaked, and a sense of nostalgia washed over me. The familiar scent of fresh-baked cookies and the soft, warm glow of the chandeliers envelop her, making me feel like I'm finally home. My staff welcomes me back with warm smiles and open arms, They are thrilled to see the inn's beloved owner return. I throw myself into my work, pouring my heart and soul into every detail, from the fluffiest towels to the tastiest b

Chapter 28 Whales Song The sun breaks through the clouds, casting a warm glow over the battered yacht and its exhausted passengers. I let out a sigh of relief, my body and mind exhausted. We've made it through the worst of it, but I know the storm's aftermath will bring its own challenges. For now, I'm just grateful to be alive, surrounded by the people I love. The next day.... As we step off the yacht and onto the dock in Brownsville, Texas, I feel a sense of relief wash over me. We've made it through the storm, and now we can finally rest and recover. After a good night's sleep and a hearty breakfast, we set out to explore the sights of southern Texas. The warm sun shines down on us as we stroll along the Rio Grande River, taking in the vibrant culture and rich history of the region. Bella's eyes light up as she marvels at the colorful murals and street art that adorn the walls of the city. "Mommy, look! A rainbow butterfly!" she exclaims, pointing to a beautiful mural. I smile,

Chapter 30 The Real Matt Then, as suddenly as she appeared, the girl vanished into the crowd, leaving Bella feeling shaken and confused, the feeling of unease lingers, like a shadow in the corner of her mind, waiting to pounce. Bella knows she'll never be able to shake off the feeling of being watched or being hunted. Kie and I, standing across the room, we were immediately aware of Bella's distress through our mind link. We turn to each other, our eyes locked in a flash of understanding as we link minds with the others. Without a word, Kie moves with Vampire speed to Bella's side. Lyra and Sam join him. Niklaus was already there scanning the room for her, with Lucas and I, not far behind them, our movements were swift and urgent. As we reached her side, the girl had vanished into thin air, leaving everyone staring at the spot where she stood. The mind link between them crackles with tension, their thoughts racing with the implications of what just happened. "Bella, are you okay?"