FF-Time and Again[Book 3]COMPLETE!Epilogue now up.PM list page 74* - Page 82

Alina was a very useful ally, Sid mused as they hurtled through space and time. Congratulations to his brother for understanding that. It was evident that the two were close. When they landed, Alina staggered, but Abhay landed on his feet. Even as he propped Alina up, he saw Abhay grab Maithali's neck and yank her away from Piya. He felt a savage satisfaction as she flew through the air and landed a short distance away from them. It could only be shock responsible for her delayed reaction, but she was soon on her feet, her arm raising as though she was about to attack Abhay, who was now on his knees next to a prone Piya. But as she threw a fireball at them, it halted about a metre away from them and rebounded. Instinctively, he glanced at Alina, who was smiling an eerie smile.

And then Maithali turned to them, noticing them for the first time. "Go to him," said Alina quietly. "Sid! Go!"

"Siddharth?" Said Maithali. She sounded confused, bewildered.

"Go!" Alina snapped. "Damn you, go!"

Siddharth smirked at Maithali, and then walked towards Abhay and Piya, never breaking her gaze. And she saw the exact moment that realization dawned on her, and for several moments, she looked like the princess he had loved. But she wasn't, and he knew that.

"No," she whispered. "No...this is a joke, isn't it, Siddharth?"

The next moment, she was hit by red lightning, making her fall backwards several feet into the forest. He looked at Alina, and was just in time to see her twist in air and begin dissolving into the darkness.

And he knew she was going to go after Maithali.

****************

Abhay knew Piya was alive. He could feel a faint pulse, but that was it. His fangs pierced her neck, sucking out Maithali's venom. Once it was out, he cradled her in his lap. Piya was going to die, a cold part of him knew, even as he begged her to wake up, to open her eyes, to talk...

She stirred in his arms. "Abhay." It was a statement, not a question, and her voice was faint. "Please...don't make me leave."

"You're' not going anywhere," Abhay told her desperately. "Piya, you can't-please don't go..."

"Turn her," said a hard voice at his shoulder. "Turn her, dammit." It was Sid. "It's what she wants. Turn her."

"No..." But his resolve was weakening. A disgusting part of himself wondered why it would be so bad, after all, to keep her with him.

"Please," Piya's voice was growing fainter. "Abhay... I don't want to go...let me...turn me..."

"Do it!" Sid yelled. "If you love her, do it -for God's sake, she wants it! Don't fail her, damn it. Do it!"

Her eyes fluttered open for a few seconds. "Abhay...please...?"

Her eyes closed. And then Abhay gave in to his selfish side. His fangs pierced her neck again, this time for an entirely different purpose.

Sid touched his shoulder and walked away.

Abhay let go of her, then bit into his wrist, holding the cut vein in front of her mouth, letting his blood wet her lips, letting it flow into her throat.

Once it was done, he gathered her up in his arms and stood up. Now he had to get her inside the house, call for reinforcements-

"Is she like you now?"

The soft voice from the shadows made him turn around in horror. Misha came out from the shadows, shaking. He hadn't noticed her. Of course he hadn't, so focused had all of them been on Piya...

"Misha, it's not what you-" he began, then trailed off. How much had she seen?

The girl walked forward, till she was standing a short distance away from him, hugging herself. "I know what I saw," she told him steadily. "You're...some creature. A vampire?"

Abhay didn't know why , but he nodded at her calm question. "Yes."

"And she knew too. She's known for a while."

"Yes."

It was then he noticed the tear tracks in her pale face. "That was Maithali, wasn't it? Who you...saved her...from?"

"How long have you been here?" He asked in horror.

Misha pressed a fist to her lips, her face scrunched up. "I'll give you the back entrance," she said tearfully. " We'll have to get her inside."

Abhay couldn't believe that she was taking it ...so calmly. But if she had seen everything...

He followed her to the back entrance. They were not disturbed by anyone as they went upstairs to Piya's bedroom. Misha watched him as he lowered her on the bed and covered her with the sheet. Then she locked the door and burst into tears.

Abhay said nothing, just watched as she slid to the ground and drew her knees up to her chest, her body rocking with silent sobs.

When he could no longer bear it, he murmured, "I'm sorry."

She looked up at him, not bothering to pretend that she wasn't crying. " I never wanted... this is my fault."

"I'm sorry, Misha, so sorry... I couldn't lose Piya... I should have let her-" he broke off.

"I know," said Misha, sounding faint herself. "I came back and saw... I saw that...that bitch-" she bit out the word, "I couldn't think, I couldn't move...and then you all came... is Alina too?"

He shook his head. "Something else."

Misha nodded. "What now? Will Piya...know me? Or mom..and dad..."

He nodded. "Yes. Don't ... Misha, don't leave her. You're her best friend...her sister..she needs you. Please don't tell your parents... Piya will not be able to-"

Misha gave a watery smile. "If I wanted to tell anyone, I would have done it by now. And... Abhay... thank you. For saving my sister... don't hurt Piya again. She loves you...so much."

She swiped her tears away. "Piya... I won't leave her. She's my sister. I don't care. I don't care about you too. You're- you love her. I saw that. You didn't want to do it."

Abhay nodded. "I'm sorry, Misha."

She smiled sadly. "Don't be sorry. Just kill her."

And then, as though it was normal, she said," I'll tell everyone Piya is asleep here and not to disturb her."

Abhay let her out, then locked the door behind her. He went back to the bed. Then he took Piya's phone , still clutched in her hands, and made a call.

*******************

Alina pounced on Maithali, using her extended claws to rake over her face. The vampire screamed in pain and fury, hitting back with a burst of electricity that sent her reeling. She rolled backwards several feet, and that brief respite allowed Maithali to erect her defenses. She swiped furiously with her hand, and Alina was only just in time to throw up a shield to deflect the spell which could cut her side.

She got to her feet, suddenly feeling exhaustion. She would lose today, she realized, as she dodged and deflected. She needed help. But who would she ask?

"Natalya!" She all but shouted in her mind. "I need you, now!" Natalya answered without questioning her, sending her a burst of energy.

It was different from what she was used to, but not by much. She used her newly replenished energy reserves to attack, this time sending Maithali a blow, which forced her to draw up her own shield. And then, Maithali froze, her gaze turning to a spot about two feel from her left. "Siddharth," she breathed.

Alina herself turned in shock. Sid was standing casually, his hands in his pockets, smirking. "Guess what, Princess?" He said mockingly. "Piya lives on...as a vampire. Going to be a little more difficult for you to kill now, isn't she?" Fierce joy swamped Alina. It was happening. Finally.

" Siddharth." Maithali said, disregarding Alina altogether. "You cannot mean that. You are...you're joking. You wouldn't-"

"Of course I wouldn't," said Sid."I left that job to Abhay. She's his mate, after all." His tone was still casual, but now she felt the anger rolling off him, in waves. And that accompanied the realization...

That Sid had played them all. Her, Abhay, Maithali...

She should feel shocked or betrayed, but instead all she felt was a dawning sense of...admiration. And curiosity. Why had he done it?

"Why?" Said Maithali, and she saw the anguish and fury. So Maithali had loved him too. Alina felt a rush of unwilling empathy. She knew how that felt.

"Oh, you know me," said Sid easily. "I wanted to hurt you. The same way you did."

"No," said Maithali, pleading. "Don't... do this, Sid. I love you- I know you love me-"

Siddharth threw back his head and laughed. "Too late, Maithali!" He mocked. "It's too late! And I don't love you. It's so funny you think so." He laughed again, but Alina saw the very real fury in his eyes. "You think I'd let you control me again? You really think so?"

Alina saw the misery in Maithali's face get replaced by rage. "Right," Maithali growled, "Right!"

Alina had only a second's warning as Maithali threw the ball of electricity at her. She erected her shield in a second, deflecting it back to Maithali.

Sid's words to her after she'd found out that he'd plotted to have Piya killed.

"Did you goad Maithali to kill her?" He'd shrugged. "She wanted to bite Piya, and kill her off, so I suggested she use a less messy route."

But of course. He'd been buying her time.

She attacked Maithali, throwing her own ball of fire,which Maithali deflected.

She remembered his words to her,when she'd said he was nothing like Abhay, "Maybe we're more alike than you might think."

This time, Maithali managed to break down her shield, and charged Alina, bringing her down.

Abhay had told Alina that Sid had been the one to give Maithali the idea of throwing Piya off a cliff. God, he'd saved her. Saved Piya, who had trusted him, who had believed in him.

She growled, rolling over so that she was on top, drawing a large gash down Maithali's side. Her powers were weakening rapidly. She wouldn't last in hand to hand combat. Damn Maithali.

He'd fought wolves beside Abhay. To save Piya. Damn it, why had she been so blind?

She managed to throw off Maithali, who screamed out a spell that would cause invisible knives to carve her up. But she was now hardly strong enough to deflect it.

Sid threw her to the ground , taking the spell aimed for her, and she saw his face contort in pain. "Get out of here," he hissed in her ear. "Leave me. Go!"

She reached deep inside her for the remaining power, and transported them both inside her house.

The living room was dark, and they'd both landed off the sofa. Sid got off her. "Alina?" He said. "Don't you dare faint on me now."

She managed to get up, switching on the light, then promptly collapsed on the closest chair.

Sid said nothing, simply standing in front of her, his eyes zoning on every one of her injuries.

"What?" She said self consciously. Sid smiled. Then he lifted a hand and ran it up her her arm, first one, then another. All but one of her recently scrapes and gashes vanished. Alina trembled. Apparently being exhausted did nothing to stop her stupid reactions to his touch.

Then he ran his hand over her face, lingering on each of her injuries. Once finished, he gave a half smile. "There are other places I'd like to heal, but I really don't want to be zapped right now, you know?"

She gave a wan smile. "You were playing her all this while."

Sid shrugged, fiddling with the buttons on his shirt. "We should go. Piya-"

"You go now," Alina told him. "I need to do a few things."

Sid looked as if he wanted to say more, but held his tongue and left.

Alina sank back again, but only for a minute.

************************

Abhay paced Piya's room. He still wasn't sure if turning Piya was the right decision. So many things had turned on its head, and Piya... Abhay had told Misha that Piya would be more or less the same, but a newborn could hardly stay with their human family. The council would never condone it. He'd spoken to Haseena, so he assumed that they would talk to Natalya. She had recently become the Queen, after all. And they would have to attend her Seroza Qil soon. Her welcoming party.

Oh , Piya...

He stared down at her still body. She looked beautiful, in a lehenga of pale blue.Her hands were still covered with the henna. The design on the fingers of her left hand though, would be ruined. His chest ached as he read his name on her right hand. He'd failed her. There was no excuse : he'd failed her.

Inspite of wanting so badly to protect her. To keep her safe. He'd been so sure that one night wouldn't hurt her. What an overconfident fool he'd been.

A shadow fell across the room, and he turned to see Sid come in. "She isn't awake yet?" He asked. Abhay didn't answer, he saw it himself.

Then he turned to Abhay, something like worry in his eyes. Abhay didn't answer his unspoken question :Are you all right?

"Alina-" Abhay said, his voice hoarse.

"Injured, but thankfully, alive," said Sid. "She will be coming here, she said that she had a job to do first."

Abhay nodded. "She'll be OK," said Sid, not knowing who he was trying to convince.

"Of course she will," said Abhay. "She's tough."

" Yeah, well..." Sid fidgeted uncomfortably. He stood awkwardly for several seconds, then said, "Is the wedding still on, then?"

"I don't know," said Abhay. "Probably. Unless Piya doesn't want-"

He broke off.

"All right then," said Sid. "I'll be going."

He climbed out and jumped down the window. Abhay rubbed his forehead. Was Sid on his side? He couldn't find himself to care, not now...

It had been ten minutes after Sid had gone that Luke entered. His usually placid face looked grim as he lowered the backpack. "Blood," he offered by way of explanation. "Haseena said she'd come later. Apparently she and Chand needed to talk to Natalya."

Abhay nodded. He didn't want to speak.

" Do you want me to leave?" He asked.

Abhay forced himself to say, "No. She'll need to talk to - to someone young when she wakes. You're far younger than me."

Luke nodded, and took up a place by the chair,studying Abhay. He looked haunted, as though he wasn't thinking properly. And as much as Luke wanted to say something, he knew it probably wouldn't be welcomed.

And then, about an hour later, Piya shuddered and opened her eyes.

*****************

Piya blinked in the bright light. Was she in heaven? She blinked again and Abhay came into her focus. She could see his lips forming one word, again and again. She swallowed, hating the slight tinge of pain in her throat. And then her ears started functioning properly and she realised it was her name he was saying. "Abhay," she managed to croak.

Suddenly, she was swamped with feelings of terrible guilt and fear accompanied with sadness. The pain hit her hand, making her put a hand in her chest. What was going on?

Then, just as suddenly, the feelings left her. She sat up, still staring at Abhay. "Here," he was holding something to her lips. "Drink this."

She sipped at what she thought was water, but was far better : it felt like honey, like nectar. She'd never tasted anything so beautiful.

And that was when she broke eye contact and looked down at the red liquid in the glass. And she gasped in horror, instinctively knowing that it was not wine. Or juice.

She looked up at Abhay, suddenly remembering everything. And her dying wish.

Her head reeled.

"Am I?"

His eyes were full of sorrow. "I'm sorry."

She closed her eyes and lay back down. She felt another twinge of guilt that was not hers. A thought filtered into her head : Don't hate me, Piya, please don't hate me, please-

The thought and the feelings disappeared abruptly, and she had the oddest sensation of having been cut off.

Her eyes flew open. "I can hear your thoughts!"

" Yes. Don't worry. It's under control. Piya-"

"No more apologies," she cut him off. "My head hurts. Will you give me some more..." she steeled herself, "blood?"

Without a word, he slid the glass in front of her again, and this time she was much faster, downing the entire contents in one go. She felt awkward drinking as her canines elongated, but she didn't complain. Abhay was refilling the glass from a tall bottle as soon as she finished it. She didn't feel sated until she'd downed an entire bottle.

"More?" He asked, unscrewing a second bottle. She shook her head.

"Abhay," she began, " I just wanted to say...thank you."

He looked revolted. "Don't. I just upturned your entire life. Your family, daylight...your eating habits... your world-"

She smiled. "You've been upturning my world since the day we met, Abhay. I'm just thankful you let me live this life with you."

She saw the relief that washed over his face as he , in a rare show of impulsive affection, pulled her to him and held her close. "Thank you," he whispered. "Thank you."

She sighed. "I'll expect a better thanks than this on our wedding night. You hear me?"

Before Abhay could reply, another female voice said, "We hear you, too."

She pulled away in mortification, staring at Haseena. "Right, so that's out of the way," she said briskly, not at all embarassed herself, "You need to know a few things. And you'll go, Abhay. You're not supposed to be here the night before the wedding."

In the corner of her room, Piya saw Luke, standing in the shadows, cringe slightly.

" Mom, don't you dare." Abhay's voice was thunderous. "I sired her, and I've taken her as my mate. You wouldn't -"

Haseena glanced at Piya. "She isn't your mate yet. Have you exchanged blood thrice already?"

Luke cringed again.

Abhay glared at her. Piya could feel the anger, rolling off him in waves. "No," he bit out. "We haven't exchanged blood thrice. It makes no difference. I'm not leaving Piya alone."

Haseena crossed her arms and gave him the same look. "Abhay, Siddharth told me what she did to you. You're going home and resting till the wedding."

" Yeah, well," Abhay bit back, "Maybe he forgot to mention that Alina healed me-"

"Ahem." Both mother and son turned to Luke, who looked slightly embarrassed. "Uh...not to intrude, but shouldn't this be Piya's decision?"

He got a grateful smile from Piya.

"Yes," she said, forcefully. "I want him to stay. And I want to know who did what to Abhay?"

Abhay went very still, then he said, "A few burns. I got taken in by Maithali."

" You call almost being dead a few burns, do you?" Said Haseena scornfully.

" What?" Dread coursed through Piya. "What did she do?"

"Pretended to be you, then lured him into the most horrible torture for a vampire," said Haseena crisply. "You wouldn't have lasted."

She stared at Abhay in horror. He shook his head. "We'll talk about me later, Piya. Now it's you we need to talk about."

" Precisely," said Haseena. "Luke, you can go now. I'm here."

Luke nodded. Before leaving, he sent Piya a sympathetic grimace.

"Right then," said Haseena. "First things first. You'll be thirsty all the time, and I mean all the time. You need to avoid human contact and pray no one gets cut in front of you. You'll be much stronger and faster than humans, so you'll have to move extra slowly in front of them.The best way is to avoid them altogether."

"It'll take time," said Abhay. "It depends. It took me a year to master it-"

"And it took me twenty," said Haseena. "You'll feel lethargic during the day and much more active during the night. Sun will burn you very badly, so next morning, we'll keep the curtains closed."

"Mom, there's a situation," said Abhay. "Misha knows."

"What?" Piya gasped, while Haseena looked horrified. "What did she say?"

She turned to him.

"She was surprisingly... tolerant," said Abhay. "She saw the whole thing. Maithali attacking her and me turning..."

" Well, that's a relief," said Haseena, "but Abhay, you will have to modify her memory. We can't let her-"

"Please don't." Abhay turned back to Piya, who looked pleadingly, first at him, then his mother. "Misha- she's my best friend. She won't tell anyone. I- I can't keep this from her. Just for now? Later on- if you wanted to-you could change her memory. Please."

Haseena sighed. "This isn't how it was supposed to happen. Anyway. As you wish." She looked unhappy. "But most important now is that you sleep. Wash off that-" she nodded to Piya's hands, "we'll talk in the morning. I'm sure Alina will be there by then. Sleep well."

Then she took off again through the window.

Abhay helped take off the henna from her hands. The red colour was stark against her pale skin. The corners of her mouth turned downwards as she looked at the smudged fingers on her left hand. "What will mom say?" She said in dismay. "Hopefully Alina will make sure she won't," said Abhay bracingly."Sleep now, Piya."

"I'm not sleepy," said Piya. "I'll lie down, but-"

A curious heaviness crept over her suddenly. Her eyelids drooped. She had vaguely realized that Abhay must have compelled her. But before she could say a word, sleep claimed her.

Abhay arranged her in her bed, drawing the curtains as tightly as possible. She was going to be mad at him in the morning. But he'd do whatever it took to ease the discomfort she felt in the morning.

When Piya woke, she glanced around automatically for Abhay. The room was dark, so she first assumed that it was still night. Then her eyes found Alina, sitting at a corner of the bed. "Morning," said Alina. "I was getting so bored sitting here without a peep."

"It's morning?"

"Actually, it's afternoon," said Alina. "We had quite the task convincing everyone to let you sleep so you looked all pretty for your wedding."

But Piya noticed the haggard face, the tired eyes, even as her voice was cheerful. "Abhay drew the curtains so that you wouldn't get burned to a cinder. "Now, how do you feel?" Piya swallowed. "Hung...thirsty."

Alina nodded, as though she'd been expecting it. "Misha?" She called. "Get a glass of water for the bride here!" "But I don't want..." Piya trailed off as Misha arrived in the doorway, holding an empty glass loosely in her hand. "Well, your household would think it odd to bring an empty glass, wouldn't they?" Alina was saying, but Piya was staring at Misha, who was staring back at her.

Eventually, Misha gave a slight grin. "You've gone rather pale, you know," she said. "Better put some makeup. We don't want mum thinking you're a you-know-what."

Piya smiled back in relief. Misha entered and held out the glass to Alina, who promptly took out a bottle from the bottom of the bed and filled it. Piya noticed that Misha seemed ill at ease. "I won't bite you," she told Misha. "I'd never hurt you."

"I know," said Misha. "I won't tell anyone, I promise. Not even Kabir. It's just... hard , you know. I don't know if we'll ever meet after today."

" We'll talk," Piya promised her. "I'll meet you as long as I can. You know that, right?"

Misha smiled and hugged her. Piya hugged her back, gingerly. Still, Misha winced. "Ouch."

"Enough talking," said Alina. She held out the glass of blood. "Better drink before you try anything funny."

The thirst clawing at her throat, Piya snatched the glass from her and downed it.

"Wow," said Misha. "You could be a superhero!"

But Piya wasn't listening, downing the blood in a gulp, holding it out for more. Misha studied her fangs curiously as she gulped down four glasses. "What?" Said Piya, subconsciously wiping her chin.

Misha grinned.

"Granny, what big teeth you have!"

Piya thumped her softly with a pillow. "Ow!"

"I'll eat you up if you talk like that," Piya huffed. "Yeah, yeah," said Misha. "I suppose the Khadoos personality is transmitted through blood, is it? She asked, turning to Alina, whose lips were twitching.

" Misha!"

"All right, I'm going," she grumbled.

As Misha walked out the door, she turned and winked. "Just so you know, you're not scary at all." Then she fled, as Piya yelled after her. "Misha! Get back here, you-!"

*****************

An hour, three bottles of blood and one of vodka(consumed by Misha) later, Piya sat still on her dressing table, half dressed as Alina arranged her hair.

Madhu had called a professional, but for Alina, it was an easy matter of compelling her to leave. And then she'd made Piya sit on the dressing table with her hair open.

" You seriously know how to do hair?" said Misha , lounging on the bed, a shot glass in her hand. "Oh, yeah," said Alina, biting the inside of her cheek in an attempt to hold back the smile. "I wanted to be a makeup artist, once. And I do know how to set hair- I do it often for Dishu-"

"You wanted to be a makeup artist? Why didn't you?"said Piya.

"You style Ms.Gupta's hair?" said Misha.

Alina shrugged. "You don't get to do everything you want to do in life. And yeah, I do her hair sometimes. When we're both free and sometimes I play dress up with her. Only she's the one dressing up."

"Why not you?"said Piya. She was watching her paler reflection in the mirror in front of her. "We'll cover that with makeup and even you won't notice," murmured Alina, as she drove pins into Piya's hair, holding the mass of curls in place. "I never liked dressing up myself. But it's nice to dress up other people for once. Misha, why aren't you getting ready?"

"I want to wear jeans and tee," said Misha. "A nice one. But mom wants me to wear something like you!" She said in disgust, gesturing towards Piya's designer copper-and-silver lehenga. "I'm not the bride!"

Piya twisted around to glare at her. "Misha! This is my wedding! And you'll dress properly, or god forbid, I will definitely bite you!"

"Well, you heard the bride," said Alina, grinning as she jabbed another pin. "Go dress, Misha."

"But I-" Misha began. Piya narrowed her eyes. "Misha, if you don't leave, I'll call mom and tell her you're hiding here. Get it?"

Misha paled. "Fine. Fine, I'm going, just don't tell mom."

She leapt off the bed and hurried out.

" You know you're not scary when your human sister's more afraid of your human mother," said Alina, smirking.

" Yeah, well, I have no need to be," said Piya. "Alina- what really happened to Abhay yesterday?"

Alina put up Piya's hair in a bun, letting a few strands hang loose.

"Okay, Piya, now you need to close your eyes and-" She caught Piya's chair and turned her around so she was no longer facing the mirror. "Now lean back and close your eyes."

"Alina," said Piya in a whine. "I'm telling you," said Alina. "Just let me keep working, okay?"

Sighing, Piya did as she was told.

"Maithali's smart," said Alina. "She took your phone and called Abhay and drew him out on the road near the forest."

A light brush over Piya's eyelids.

"And then she pretended to be you. Cried and everything."

" What?" Piya gasped.

"Oh, it gets worse," said Alina. "She lured him into a Hellfire trap."

She went to work on Piya's eyelashes. Piya was rigid in her seat, her hands curled in fists.

" It's the worst torture for a vampire," said Alina. "Or a werewolf. Pretty much all creatures, humans included. As far as I know, Abhay was in for around fifteen minutes. That's something huge. Most vampires-especially young ones-die in five. You'd probably have lasted a minute."

Piya's eyes were still closed, so she didn't see the shudder in Alina's body.

She resolutely kept working.

"You can open your eyes now," said Alina. Piya's dark brown eyes flew open, as she stared blankly into space, her expression horrified. "You asked, I answered," said Alina.

"Yes, I know," said Piya. "What happened then?"

"Before I could come," said Alina, applying blush on Piya's cheeks. "She took his phone and called you."

"That's when..." Piya couldn't continue. She remembered going out looking for Abhay. The excruciating pain.

" I know," said Alina. "Sid called me, and I came as soon as I could. He was in a bad way, I'll give you that. But I managed to heal the worst parts. And then, of course, we came here, and the rest you know."

"Sid called you?"said Piya in shock. "To save Abhay?"

" Yup," said Alina grimly. "He also saved me- I was fighting Maithali, and losing. I was weak- I still am."

"He saved you?"

"He's been playing with all of us," said Alina. "Feeding Maithali partial information, taunting us with clues- that's Sid for you. What I understand is, he's been waiting for the moment to screw her up. Hurt Maithali the same way she hurt him."

Piya digested this in silence. "I guess," she said in a strange voice. "But Abhay said that he plotted to kill me-"

Alina's mouth twisted. "He kept you away from Maithali. In a way, he probably laid the framework for Abhay to save you. It was genius."

She finished her work and stood up. "There. We're all done. Look at you. You're lovely."

Piya turned to stare at the mirror. She looked at herself and admitted that Alina had done a very good job. She did look lovely.

Alina glanced at her watch. "It's six twenty. When were you supposed to go down?"

"I forgot," Piya admitted. "I think it's eight."

"Oh, OK," said Alina. "I'll call your mom."

Misha burst in, wearing a green-and-pink lehenga, looking harried- till she saw Piya. "Wow, sis. You actually look pretty."

" You would too,if you let me work on you," said Alina lazily.

Misha snorted. "No thanks."

And then of course, her mom and dad came up, telling her how she would always be their daughter ("Misha's half a son anyway," said Madhu Dobriyal, making Misha protest indignantly that she was as good as a full son,thank you very much.)and that Abhay would keep her happy, and if he didn't, they'd see to him(this part was from her dad). Piya wanted to cry, but no tears came. And soon enough, the guests began to arrive , and Piya's parents had to go, leaving the three girls alone.

"Has Abhay arrived yet?"

" That s number one," said Alina teasingly. "You'll be asking us twenty times more in the next twenty minutes."

Piya scowled and turned away while Misha howled in laughter.

But over the next twenty minutes she proved Alina wrong by asking thirty-two times(Misha kept careful count) and making both girls sick. In the end, Alina forced her to down two more bottles of blood, but it didn't calm her much.

"Piya," said Alina finally, "if you don't shut up, I'll put a silencing spell on you."

Thankfully, ten minutes later, Madhu arrived to tell them it was time.

Alina and Misha helped her down as Piya glanced around the hall, seeing Tracker, who looked teary eyed in a blue dress, Kabir, who winked at Misha, then at her, making Misha blush, Ms Dasgupta, looking resplendent and quite blinding in a golden sari, Haseena Raichand, looking stunning in an indigo sari, and then her eyes fell on Abhay and she missed a step. She would certainly have fallen if Alina hadn't steadied her.

Abhay was staring at her in a way that made her insides melt and flop into a puddle at her feet. His mind was still shielded from her, but there was no mistaking the way his eyes moved down her body. She felt his gaze as a physical caress, searing her through the clothes she was wearing, making them feel uncomfortably heavy. Then there was the way he looked: impossibly handsome, in dark brown.

"The quicker you get there, sweetheart, the quicker you can make out for real," hissed Alina beside her,dousing cold water over her uncensored thoughts. "It's looking indecent."

Mortified, she broke eye contact , realizing that they had reached the bottom. Somehow, she found herself sitting beside Abhay, in front of a fire. She saw Alina go and hug a gorgeous woman in red, and felt surprised as she realized it was Ms Gupta. Smiling, she faced forward again, trying her best to avoid brushing her elbow with Abhay's arm.

The wedding started. Piya was on autopilot :she held out her hand when told, walked the seven pheras and smiled till she wondered why her cheek wasn't aching. She was happy. Ecstatic, even, but she couldn't stop thinking that it was going to be over, she didn't belong with her family and friends anymore.

Luke glanced at Disha, standing two places away from him. She was smiling, her eyes on the happy couple, but something seemed terribly off. She seemed tired, and exhausted.

He somehow made his way to her and tapped her on the shoulder. "Something wrong?"

She turned to him, her smile wary. "What? Of course not. Two of my favourite students are getting married. What could be wrong?"

"Nothing," said Luke. "Except that you look exhausted."

Disha sighed and turned to face the front. "Ask Alina about exhaustion. She had a bad accident recently and wouldn't sleep. She's more exhausted than I am, only I put on less make up."

"You care for her a lot?" said Luke.

This time her smile was genuine. "Yes. She is dear to me."

When he finally looked away, the wedding was done and the newly married couple were getting congratulations from all quarters.Disha made her way over to them, but Luke's eyebrow rose slightly as she held on to Abhay for a mite longer, saying something in his ear.

It was ridiculous. He had no right to be jealous.

He moved forward, embracing Piya. She gave him a wide smile, and he thought he might be friends with her in time. She was certainly holding up remarkably well.

And then Abhay realised his shoes were missing, sending dirty looks to the unrepentant faces of Alina and Piya's sister.He'd forgotten the name.

A round of bargaining later- Luke would later learn from Piya that it was apparently tradition- Alina and Misha were several thousands richer.

Piya wanted to hold Misha. It was excruciating, pretending to be happy in front of everyone, while inside she wanted to cry. Misha must have been feeling the same, for she hadn't come to embrace her at all.

She kept staring at her sister, who looked determinedly away from her. Swallowing, she followed Abhay and his parents outside. Just as she neared the car, there was a yell. "Wait!"

She turned around, her chest squeezing, as Misha hurtled through the crowd, slamming into her with a force that would have hurt her had she been human. Then she felt wetness in her shoulder as Misha hugged her tightly. "Damn you, Piya, you made me cry," she sobbed. "Don't forget me, please don't ever forget me-"

And Piya didn't notice Luke, Chand and Haseena's astonished faces and Abhay's resigned one as tears began to fall from her own eyes. "Never, Mish. Never."

NOTE : A bit of mature content in the beginning. Read at your own risk.

It was Abhay who gently pried Misha apart from her, giving her to Alina. Piya wiped her eyes, catching a glimpse of worry on Haseena' s face.

"Piya?" Abhay's hand was touching her arm. She nodded, to her family, Misha's stricken face, and concentrated on slowly settling into the car. Her tears felt cold on her cheeks.

Abhay got in beside her as she was touching her cheek. "Abhay-what is it on my face?" Abhay's mouth twisted. He pulled out a handkerchief and scrubbed at her face, then showed her the shards of ice that had come off.

"That's what happens when our kind weep," he said, self loathing in his voice. "We don't cry often."

"Oh." She looked down, embarrassed. "Sorry."

"Don't," said Abhay, and she caught a hint of his tortuous thoughts before they were masked again.

" Why do you keep hiding your thoughts?" She said, without thinking. "I can't even do that."

Even as he raised his head, she realized the thoughtlessness of her question. "Sorry," she mumbled, turning away. "I didn't mean to intrude on your privacy."

Abhay caught her chin and turned her towards him. "Piya, the reason I'm doing this is because you shouldn't have to deal with my problems right now. Once everything gets...settled, I will never hide anything from you."

She gave him a watery smile, settling closer to him. "And besides, you really shouldn't talk about privacy," he said, his voice heavy with irony. "I doubt you know the meaning of the word."

She mock scowled at him. "Sniping at me already, husband? You could have waited till the next day, couldn't you?"

" You know I can never resist with you," murmured Abhay. He lifted the block over a fraction of his thoughts, and smiled slightly at Piya's gasp and her subsequent thoughts.

Piya saw him smirking, and fought to block her thoughts from him. This was all his fault. He was the one who'd started this.

"Typical," he murmured. "Not an hour married, and already everything is my fault. Nagging shrew."

This time she glared at him. "How dare you call me a shrew, you overbearing, controlling-"

He shut her up with the simple expedient of kissing her.

Dear God, Piya thought, as reason flew out her mind. He was drugging her, she was sure of it : what other explanation would she be able to give for the mind numbingly slow kiss he was giving her?

His hand remained at her waist, hers around his neck. They were simply kissing, but there was nothing simple about it. Her entire being was aching for him.

With a muttered oath, Abhay wrenched himself from her, pressing a button to draw up the privacy screen between them and the driver.

She all but threw herself on him , hardly ashamed of her desperation when he was just as undone as her.

He explored the moist recesses of her mouth with slow strokes, as though she was his favourite flavour of icecream. She returned the favour, sensing his turmoil. He wished to forget everything, if just for a while, and she intended to help him as much as she could.

She felt his hand slip under her skirts, and her breath caught as she felt his fingers on her calf, then on the inside of her thigh. "Abhay, what are you doing?" She whispered breathlessly against his mouth.

He smiled, a devilish grin. "What do you think I am?"

And his fingers cupped the mound. She let out a soft squeak, but Abhay ruthlessly took her mouth in his.

Then she heard his voice in her head, deeper than usual."Don't make me lose control or we'll cause an accident, Miss Temptation," just as his fingers slid into moist flesh. "It's Mrs to you, Mr Raichand," she managed to gasp, her words ending on a low moan.

Her fangs slipped out, cutting her bottom lip. She looked up at him, seeing her own indigo eyes reflected in his glowing pupils. He gave her a fanged smile. "We match," he said in her head, just as his questing fingers found her secret spot, and she gasped. "Are you married, then, Mrs Temptation?" He whispered. "What will your husband say if he sees you like this?"

"He'll say -don't stop!" She said as he stroked her relentlessly, building up the ache inside her until she wanted to scream.

"Then I suppose I must do what he wishes," he murmured.

A few seconds later, she exploded, blindly reaching for him. Her aim was slightly off, though, and her fangs pierced his collar. With his other hand, he held her steady against him, till she stopped shaking, and turned to him. Her fangs had retracted , and her eyes were going back to a warm, sated brown.

She ducked her head. "You- you have lipstick on your face," she said, feeling inexplicably shy.

"Where?" Said Abhay. She raised her finger and wiped it off him, then looked mournfully at his collar. "That's bad form, you know," said Abhay. "I didn't tear off your dress, but you haven't been a good girl at all."

She was too shy to retort, so she busied herself with arranging her hair as best as she could, as well as her skirts.

When she finally returned his gaze, he was calmly licking the end of a finger. "You taste too good, you know," he murmured. "Your husband is a very lucky man."

Their eyes locked and they shared a heated look before the car stopped.

Embarrassment replacing desire, she hurriedly took his handkerchief, wiping his hands. Thank God for vampire speed, she thought, just as the driver got out.

Trying to maintain the pose of a bride who hadn't spent the entire ride being...well, thoroughly kissed and sated, she got out.

Abhay's arm came to rest possessively on her waist as he walked her inside the Raichand house.

She wouldn't lock eyes with either of his parents, who had just arrived, too.

Accidentally , she glanced at Luke, whose eyes widened slightly, then he turned away, the corners of his mouth twitching.

" There's a situation, Abhay," said Haseena, as soon as they entered. "We've just spoken to the Queen. She wants you two to go off to the Court right now. "

"The Court?" Said Piya in dismay. "What have we done?"

"Nothing, Piya," said Chand. "Abhay will just have to explain himself to her. The reasons for turning you without informing the Council."

Dismayed, she turned to Abhay, whose face was a stoic mask, and then to Luke. "Don't worry," he told her. "Natalya already knows this anyway, it's just a formal thing, but it's important. It's nothing you should worry about."

" Very well," said Abhay. "We'll be back in a while."

She followed him upstairs, upset that he was shutting himself off again. When they reached his room, he said, "Piya, pack some dark colored clothes. You'll need it there."

"Where are we going?" She asked timidly. Abhay had already pulled out a suitcase and was packing his things neatly in one half. "Kashmir," he said. "Take three changes of clothes. We'll be back soon."

"Our honeymoon-?" Would that be cancelled, too? Like their wedding night?

"No, of course not," he said, as though he was shocked. "Look- I'm sorry, Piya. But Natalya's the Queen, we can't... can't defy her, not if we have to stay in the good books of the Council. There's politics at play here."

She smiled at him, seeing the weariness in his gaze. "I understand, Abhay."

She went to the wardrobe, taking the darkest clothes she could find. A black pair of jeans. A midnight blue gown. Two long sleeved tunics in maroon and chocolate brown.

"You really hate black, don't you?" He said, sounding amused. She looked up, her heart squeezing at the gentleness in his eyes. He was doing so much for her...going to so much trouble. Because he loved her.

"Of course I do," he said, shaking his head as though she was silly. "I didn't have a chance when you set your sights on me."

She giggled. "I know."

He sighed and zipped up the suitcase, then picked it up, "Come on, then."

*********************************************************

Sid had lost count of the number of shots he'd drunk. Blood was fine and good, but there was nothing like vodka to dull the senses. And that was what he was fine with.

And then a woman materialized out of thin air in front of him. He blinked, not used to see Alina dressed up. And when she began to shimmer in front of him, he regretted being drunk.

Or was he imagining her?

Alina wrinkled her nose at the smell of alcohol. She detested it's had always detested it, ever since that night when Rehul had pawed her, a mere child of thirteen...

"You're drunk!" She exclaimed.

He smiled at her lazily. Drunk he might be, but he was definitely still charming. He began to walk towards her, and her eyes widened in sudden fear.

"Don't come near me!" She almost screamed.

To her astonishment, he halted, his focus becoming clearer. "Alina," he said, weary recognition in his tone. "What ...do you want now?"

He reached out, holding on to the bar as he tried to focus his thoughts.

" Are you in your senses?" She said accusingly.

"Yesshhh...of course." Both of them grimaced at the slur in his words.

"I... I will... do...better," he gritted out. "Is...it impo...important?"

She sighed. "You're foxed. No, it can wait. Let's get you up to bed."

"Bed," he said, as though something had clicked in his head. "Want you. Bed."

"Yeah, me and every other female," she said derisively. "Save your breath. I'm not going to bed with you. Ever."

His shoulders slumped. "I..knowww," he said , his words slurring again. "You...hate me."

He looked at her, his gaze almost heartbreakingly sad...and was that longing?

How long had she secretly wanted him to look at her like that?

It's the drink, idiot, she told herself. He'd use the same line on Dishu if he could.

Then she grimaced. Not a nice picture.

She came closer. "I can help you upstairs, " she said. "But you'll keep your hands to yourself."

Sid nodded vigorously.

She swallowed. She could do it. She was not weak or helpless.

Prying the bottle of alcohol away from him, she took his arm, and Dematerialized in a bedroom.

She led him to the bed, fighting the strange urge to smile. He looked so innocent. Like an angel.

"Will you stay?" He asked.

She shook her head. "No."

"Pleashhh?" He begged. "Just for a while?"

She considered, then sighed. "All right," she said, settling on the edge of the bed.

Sid looked at her. "Beautiful."

She let out a small squeak of surprise. "Me?"

He nodded. "You. Vera...beautiful. But you hate me."

"I don't hate you," she said, sighing. "I suppose I never did. You saved my life... and my honour."

"Sorrieee," he mumbled.

She shook her head. "What about?"

"Your... Gaurav."

Alina bit her lip, blinking.

"I killed yours," he said, his voice surprisingly clear. "But you saved mine.My brother..."

She looked at him sadly. "It was his decision. You didn't know."

"Sorry," he said again. "I should have tried..."

Alina sighed. "Sleep, Siddharth," she murmured, and watched as his eyes closed. She'd only come to tell him that she'd charmed his boundaries. Well, she could always tell him tomorrow. She rose from her perch, and in a few seconds she was gone.

***********************************

Abhay was driving. If they were lucky, they'd reach Srinagar before daybreak. He glanced to his left. Piya, now dressed in a black tee which spelled "I'm Fabulous!" and dark blue jeans, was leaning against the window, her eyes closed. He knew she wasn't asleep, though, because he could hear her thoughts, which were worried-for him. Her irritation that he was shutting her out. She opened her eyes, gave him a frown, and closed her eyes again. Now, her thoughts weren't so random,

"He'll never change," he heard her think. "Abhay, if you're hearing me now-which I know you are- then let me give you the pleasure of informing you that you are the most thick headed, overbearing, hypocritical, bad tempered vampire in the world." She went on to call him several, much more explicit names, ending her tirade with, "I swear, I don't know why I married you."

It was a grim moment. And no doubt, he was expected to offer a contrite apology, but quite unexpectedly, he let out a sudden bark of laughter, shocking himself.

Piya's eyes opened as she stared at him. "Did you just laugh?" She said in shock.

Abhay didn't answer.

"You did!" She exclaimed in incredulous joy. "You laughed!"

"Yeah, yeah," he muttered. "It's been known to happen."

"Yes, like the blue moon," she said. He never could predict how easily her moods shifted. "Do it again," she ordered him.

He turned to frown at her. "What?"

"Do it again!"

"Do what again?"

"Laugh," she said, as though it were the easiest thing in the world. "Go on."

"I most certainly will not," he said. Both of them would not act like a child. "It's not something I can do at the drop of a hat."

"The heroines of all the shows can cry at the drop of a hat," she said petulantly.

" Well, I'm not a daily soap heroine," he gritted out.

She grinned, took a swig of blood from a bottle. "Well, we'll just have to see won't we?"

He rolled his eyes as he caught a glimpse of her not-innocent thoughts. " Now I know why you married me. You 're addicted to my body."

She smirked back. "Caught. What are you going to do now that I've trapped you?"

He gave a short laugh . "You're a bad influence, Piya. A very bad influence indeed."

"He laughs again!" She crowed. "And don't call me a bad influence. I was perfectly content with just kissing."

"Like hell you were," he snorted. "And might I remind you that you tore my collar?"

"Only because I missed your neck," she said cheerfully. "Don't worry. I'll be more careful in the future. Maybe you could go shirtless till I practise."

He shifted in his seat. "Piya, stop it before I veer off the road."

She looked at him intently, and smiled when she caught another hint of his thoughts.

She was definitely progressing. And not at a bad pace, either.

Abhay snorted beside her. "Understatement of the year, sweetheart," he said drily in her head.

***********************************************************

When Sid awoke, the sun was streaming in through the windows, leaving him with a faint burning sensation. He sat up, putting his head in his hands. He'd been drinking...and Alina... had he imagined her?

"I don't hate you," she'd told him.

Yeah, definitely his imagination.She'd never say that.

She dialled her number. It rang once, twice, three times. Finally, she answered. "Hello," she croaked, sounding completely tired. She cleared her throat. "I mean- yes. What is it?"

"Did you come to my house yesterday?" He said shortly. A memory hit him. Alina, looking terrified, almost screaming. "Don't come near me!"

And then, it didn't matter what she said, because that couldn't have been a dream. Never had he seen her look like she'd seen a ghost. Always poised, always in control.

"Yes," she replied just as tersely. "You were drunk."

Well, that was informative, he thought bitterly. "Did you tell me you didn't hate me?"

To his surprise, she let out a choked sound midway between a sob and a laugh. "Yes," she said,sounding as though she'd gritted her teeth.

"Are you in pain?" he asked. He knew he was being nosy, but he didn't care. He heard her quick intake of breath, and then he was sure. "You are!"

"No, I'm not," she snapped back, sounding like her old self- although she sounded rushed. "Look, I'll talk later.And I can't come to office today, sorry, I'm taking the day off. Bye."

And then the phone was cut, and Sid stared broodily at it. Alina was clearly in pain. But she hadn't shown any of it the previous night. But what if he'd been too foxed to see the details? An awful thought struck him. Dear God, she hadn't come to him for help, had she? And he'd turned her away.

Yeah, he was a sick bas***d. Now he'd have to go and visit her. And she wouldn't allow it. Nor would her dragon companion.

Wait. Where exactly was Alina? Was she even with her friend? Alina didn't like showing off weakness. Had she gone somewhere he didn't-

Yeah, good luck not turning into baby brother. He'd just have to check with the very prissy Ms Gupta . If she didn't tell him, he'd definitely make her.

*********************************************************************************

Dawn was breaking on the horizon as they reached Srinagar. Sometime during the journey, Piya had fallen asleep, and had changed positions several times during her sleep, so now instead of leaning on his shoulder, she was lying across his lap.

For his part, he felt weary. Piya had chattered on and on, tempting him again and again to skip propriety . He couldn't bring himself to be angry with her, though. It was her way of coping with everything that going on- getting separated from Misha and her family, turning into a vampire- and he knew she was worrying about meeting Natalya. He was damned grateful that she hadn't gone to her silent treatment route, because that would be the worst thing imaginable.

So Piya could chatter on as long as she liked. As long as she was still sharing herself with him.

He touched her lightly as they arrived at the hotel and she awoke with a start. "Oh, god, I'm tired," she moaned. "Let's just sleep here. I won't be able to stay awake long enough to check in."

She would be, he knew. Quite apart from everything else, Piya was a newborn, and she would be sleepy during the day. For the time being, anyway.

"Come on, sleepy head," he said coaxingly. "Wouldn't you like a bed to sleep in?"

She shook her head. "I can sleep on top of you."

His lips twitched. "If you don't get out now, Piya, I'll carry you to the rooms."

That made her get out of the car in a hurry, her eyes still drooping. He was by her side in a flash. "Damn it, Piya, there are people here," he said in a low, urgent voice. "Move slowly, please."

She blinked. "Right. Sorry."

He still had to put an arm around her as they checked into the room. Without a word, she flopped on to the bed and closed her eyes.

Abhay locked the door, then hurried to draw the curtains so the sun would stop coming. Regretfully, he stared at the blisters which had already formed on her hands and on one side of her face. He kissed them away, leaving her skin as before.He'd caught her wince once , just at the lobby, but he'd kept his mouth shut and she hadn't said a word about it. Not for the first time, he marvelled at her quiet strength.

Piya wasn't someone who gone harsh against the world. She could easily have become like him. Or Alina. Or Sid. Or any of them. But no. She was still the same as ever, and no matter what life dealt her, she took it in her stride, sometimes scowling, sometimes crying, sometimes silently. She gave everyone a chance. And somehow, she'd got everyone wrapped around her finger.

Sid had told him not to fail her. There were several things he would have to work out, but right then, he'd seen the genuine worry that she'd die without becoming a vampire. Alina had gone above and beyond what she'd originally been supposed to do for Piya. She'd risked her life for a human. And him? He'd hated her , at first. And then she'd slipped inside his defenses without his consciousness or approval.

She'd done it centuries ago, even when he had been too blinded by Maithali to recognize the amount of trust he'd always had in her. The trust that she'd never leave him...and now, he was selfishly grateful she was taking to being a vampire so well.

She had wanted to be one, because she'd wanted to stay with him. She'd given him more importance than he life. How could someone want to hurt her? How could Maithali?

Witch or not, he was going to kill Maithali. He could feel it in his bones. He wanted to be the one to plunge the stake in her black heart. He wanted to see her suffer for what she'd done to Piya, but more than anything, he wanted her gone from Piya's life, and his.

When Piya awoke, the room was dark, with only a lamp beside her bed alight. Abhay was talking on the phone. "Yes. Yes, that's exactly what I mean. Thank you."

He switched on another lamp, and turned to face her. "How are you feeling? Thirsty?"

She nodded. Her throat felt as though it was literally on fire. He unpacked the backpack he'd brought along with them, and poured her a glass of blood. Her fangs came out, and she had to maneuver the glass so her teeth wouldn't clink. Of everything that was going on, the fangs were annoying her.

"What time is it?" she asked, once she'd eaten her fill, and was lying back down on the bed. Abhay lay down next to her, his hand covering hers. "It's 7.20 in the evening," he said. "And I realise I should have told you this before, but you'll be tired during the days."

She digested this in silence. "For how long?" she asked.

"About a week to ten days," said Abhay. "Then you start getting used to it, and after a while, it becomes second nature. You won't even need to sleep."

She was silent for a while. "You're worried about the meet," he said quietly.

"A bit," she admitted. "What if I don't get accepted?"

"That's not going to happen," he told her. "Everyone gets accepted- even Sid did, although he's still somewhat ostracised by the vampire community because he insulted our then King. I'll tell you that story once we go there tonight," he said, picking up on her thoughts.

"Tonight?"

He grimaced. "yeah. Reporting out presence. The actual meet will be tomorrow night."

She groaned. "Another day of worry."

"I shouldn't worry about it," he told her. "For once thing, you'll be sleeping. For another, you could always pick on me."

She swatted his arm. "You pick on me as much as I do."

"Yes, dear," said Abhay in an obedient voice that , rather ridiculously, sent her into a fit of the giggles.

About ten o'clock, Piya and Abhay made their way out of the hotel. Piya wasn't tired now. So when Abhay told her they'd have to go by foot to the Court, she had no objections at all.

They walked side by side on the deserted roads, before discreetly sneaking to the woods. Abhay took her hand, for which she was grateful. vampire sight or not, she still didn't like the dark very much.

"Tell me about Sid," she said suddenly. "You said you would."

He glanced at her , and nodded.

"It's not a long story," he said. "As you know, when you convert someone without prior permission from the Council, we're supposed to go to the King, or Queen , in your case. In my time, it was Aster. Rude man, really, but he was fair. Anyway, when we went there, Sid refused to bow to him."

"What?" she said incredulously. "He wouldn't bow? Even I would have guessed that you would be supposed to bow."

"Yeah, well, he's always had a problem with people telling him what to do," said Abhay, shrugging. "So he flat out refused to bow. Said he wouldn't be a sycophant, and he didn't know the King anyway, so apparently he wasn't deserving of respect."

"But you know," said Piya quietly, "I kind of..can see why he'd do that. It's so like him. And it is rather outdated...although, not in your times, I'd guess."

"Yes, well," said Abhay, "Then he went and flirted with one of the female Council members. Suffice to say, she was not pleased." He grimaced.

Piya couldn't help smirking. "Typical."

"Yeah , well, the Council took offense," said Abhay."So they ostracised him from vampire society. And all of us were forbidden to fraternize with him. I was only too happy. I hated him."

"Yes, well, nothing's changed on that," she said candidly. "Though I didn't peg you for being a vindictive person."

He frowned. "Yeah, well. I never claimed to be perfect. Far from it. So-"

She bumped his arm. "Don't get sensitive now. I understand what you were going on that time. With the way things happened..."

Abhay stopped. "Come on," he said. "We've got to climb a bit. It's easy." Piya gulped. "Abhay, I can't." Abhay's brows met. "Okay, I'll go first and give you a hand. You can. You just have to get used to your body." She watched nervously as he climbed a few yards, then balanced precariously on a rock , he reached out for her. "Don't think about it," she chanted in her hand. Taking his hand, she surprised herself when she came to stand up easily next to him.

"I did it!" She said in delight. "Voice down," murmured Abhay, but she saw him smile. "Come on, then." She continued climbing after him, surprising herself. She'd never have been able to do this in her past. Probably not even with a safety harness.

"I could become a stunt double," she said in wonder, as they reached the top. "It would be so easy!"

"You could be anything you like," said Abhay. "Come on."

The ground was flat now, and Abhay guided her to a large cavern, so dimly lit that she hadn't even known it was there.

"Piyali Dobriyal, newborn," he announced. "Here escorted by her mate and sire, Abhayendra Singh."

She gave him a look. "That's how they know they'll always recognize us, by our human names," he said in her head. "Since most of us change our names to fit in with the humans."

She barely had time to ponder on the possibility about getting her name changed over the years when a vampire arrived, holding a flaming torch.

"Your request has been taken," he told them, unsmilingly. "Her highness will see you on the morrow, at ten seconds past midnight precisely. You are dismissed."

She stared incredulously at him ."That's all ?" she said to him through their linked minds. "Yes," he replied wryly in her head. Aloud he said to the vampire, "Thank you, Markham."

Then his arm went around her waist, and they exited the cavern.

Piya found that her worry was gone, replaced by expectant curiosity.

"Come on," said Abhay. "I told you not to worry."

*********************************************************************************************

Sid knocked on the door for the third time that day. It was now half past nine in the evening. The first time, he'd come at ten to eleven, and Alina was apparently out, as told by her friend. Then, he'd come at three in the afternoon, and she'd been asleep. He thought, rather unreasonably, that if this time, she turned him away, he would barge in regardless. He didn't know why he hadn't done it yet. He would not admit that Disha Gupta, with her x-raying eye,s unnerved him. The woman looked at him as if she knew all his secrets. Then again, alina would probably not appreciate it if he offended or hurt her friend in any way. Best to stay on her good books. Or at least that was what he told himself.

Just then the door was opened- by Alina. A rather surprised Alina. "Hello, Sid," she said perfectly politely. "Come on in."

Her nice-alternately-nasty attitude was starting to get on his nerves.

"How are you?" he said, looking her over. She looked completely fine. "I'm good," she said, ushering him to the sofa and taking a seat opposite him. "Why?"

Oh, so now she was going to play dumb.

"I know you weren't fine a few hours ago," he said. Shooting point blank was never his style, but perhaps it would shock her enough that he would get a reaction from her. "I know you were in pain."

Very satisfyingly, he saw her start, before her features fell back into their normal blank stare. "You've been mistaken, Sid," she said coolly. "Must have been the network. I was perfectly fine. Just a bit tired from everything that's going on."

"Where were you?" He said bluntly. "I came here twice before. And twice, you weren't here, or you were sleeping. Unless your friend is lying, I'm inclined to think you were out. Where were you?"

She glared at him. "I had to go outside for an important job."

"More important than coming to the office, where you work like ten of my employees combined?" He said caustically.

"Gee, thanks, I didn't know you had such a high opinion of me," Alina shot back.

Sid threw up his hands. "I didn't come here to fight with you , Alina. All I want to know is what's going on. That's it. I know you are going through something- don't try to deny it- and all I want is to help."

Alina bit her lip, looking unconvinced.

"Look, if you don't tell me,"he said, "I'll get it out of your friend. The dragon."

"How very flattering," said a dry voice from the corner. Sid groaned mentally as he realised he hadn't noticed Miss Gupta sitting in a chair at the corner of the room, wearing large glasses, book in hand. "It isn't everyday that young men call me a dragon. I am delighted to have made such an impression on you."

Sid bit back the many retorts he was itching to give, and instead looked at Alina. "Is there somewhere we can talk alone?"

"You know, if you wanted me to leave, all you had to do was say so," said Miss Gupta, picking up her book and exiting the room. "By the way, Alina," she said, just before she disappeared into the bedroom, "I'm right here. Yell if you need me."

Sid glowered after her retreating figure.

"What was it you wanted to talk about?" said Alina.

He hesitated. "Look... I'm sorry I was drunk yesterday. If...if you needed my help...and I wasn't -"

Alina looked astonished. "You think I came to ask for your help?" Sid glanced away. Now she would laugh at him.

"Thanks for the concern, Sid," she said , almost gently, "But no. I only came to tell you I'd placed a protective ward around your house. Because we both know that Maithali's going to come back."

But Sid was shaking his head. "You didn't have to do that. Why risk your life for mine?"

"Why risk your life for mine?" she countered back. "You helped save my life in that fight. I shouldn't have fought anyway. I was angry, and reckless. I should have-"

She broke off. "Anyway. Consider it repayment."

Sid was smiling slightly. "So, I guess you really don't hate me."

Alina rolled her eyes. "So? Doesn't meant I like you."

"I don't want you to like me," he said, grinning. "I'd like you to love me."

"Lord hail his arrogance," said Alina, rolling her eyes. "Are you done?"

"There's one thing else," he said. "How come I could heal you yesterday, but not that day? I think you've still got that scar."

Alina sighed as though explained one plus one equals two to a stubborn child. "Because that was a spell wound and the others were merely flesh ones. You do realise all injuries aren't the same, don't you?"

"Right," said Sid. "I...thanks. I'll go now. Good night and take care."

She watched him go. "You too, Sid," said Alina quietly to the wind. "You, too."

******************************************************************************************

The night of the meeting, Piya wore her blue gown. "What if I rip it, though?" she asked as they made their way to the cavern. Abhay had carried her for most of the journey, not wanting Piya to go in with half her legs visible in case she had tripped and tore the gown.

"You've asked that question about six times, you know," said Abhay, rolling his eyes. "I'd have no problems in carrying you right inside, but I'm not sure if the Queen would, you know, be impressed by that-"

She scowled, then promptly lost her balance on the rock they were standing on, waiting to get entrance. Quick as a flash, Abhay caught her waist and pulled her back to position. "Don't get nervous," he said. "Answer whatever she asks you, but don't be too deferential. Treat her like you treat Dad. I'll be in your head,so don't worry."

They walked silently through the cave, which was surprisingly wide and tall. Fire lit torches lined the walls, reminding her of the time she had spent as Piyali, in the 18th century.

And then, the cave widened into a room. A very large room.

"Piyali Dobriyal," announced a monotonous male voice.

Piya swallowed nervously as about fifty heads turned to look at her. And, then , in a flash, she knew. She could do this. She'd done it before. All she had to do was walk up to the dais, where six others were sitting. And she knew she could do this. She was an ex-model, after all. If nothing else, she knew how to walk...and do it well.

"Yeah, you do," said Abhay in her head. "Just relax."

She lifted her head and flashed her trademark "I'm fabulous" smile. Abhay's face was expressionless, but he suppressed a grin.

He kept an arm loosely as Piya walked, all lithe grace and easy confidence.More than a few heads turned. Piya certainly knew how to hold the spotlight, something he'd never liked or wanted. When she was ten steps away from the dais, he let go of her. She turned to him at once, and he saw the panic in her eyes.He smiled. "You can do it," he mouthed. Then, he pushed down the barriers of his mind, letting her in, so she could hear his every thought.

"You've come this far, Piya," he said in her head. "I'm proud of you. Go to them. Be yourself. The entire crowd already loves you anyway."

Piya nodded, her chest squeezing. He loved her, and she knew it. She would do this, for him. She straightened her spine and made the final ten steps to the dias, sinking into a curtsey in front of the Queen, without prompting from Abhay, though she felt his approval through the link. And when she finally raised her head, Natalya looked approving, too.

"Please sit down, Piyali Dobriyal," she said, gesturing to an armchair by the side of the dais. It was in plush velvet, but that made no difference. She was definitely not a guest here, to be welcomed with food and drink.

"Or blood," quipped Abhay in her head.

Or blood, indeed.

A hush fell over the crowd. The six Council members were staring at her, but she only looked at Natalya.

"You are Piyali Dobriyal. Born two nights ago, at 11: 55 pm?"

Well, she wasn't sure about the time. "Yes."

"You were created by Abhayendra Singh. Were you in agreement with his actions?"

"What?" The question slipped out before she could reconsider it . She was rude, oh god, she'd just made a blatant mistake.

"We mean to say," said another female voice, and Piya glanced to Natalya's right to see a beautiful woman with dark red hair ; "Did you agree to be a vampire?"

What a silly question, she thought. "Yes."

There were some murmuring among the Council members.

"You wished to become a vampire?"

Keep calm, said Abhay in her head. "They're just psyching you out."

"I did," she said clearly. "I was dying, and in my dying moments, I asked to become a vampire."

"And you were aware that your...sire...was a vampire himself?" said a man to her left.

She felt suddenly sympathetic with Sid. "Yes, I was."

A murmur went up against the crowd.

"Abhayendra Singh," said Natalya, "You realise, do you not, that telling humans about our...existence is a flouting of several of our laws?"

"I did not tell her, Your Majesty," said Abhay calmly, standing up from his seat. He wasn't looking at her, but she felt his amusement. "I told her nothing."

"But then-" said the red haired woman, clearly confused.

"I found out by myself," Piya interrupted.

Now everyone turned to her. She pushed out Abhay from her head. She had the feeling he was having too much fun.

"You found out by yourself?" said Natalya. Now she too looked amused. "How, if the Court may ask?"

Well, that was it. Straightening her spine, she said boldly, "I fell in love with him, Your Majesty. And they do say all is fair in love and war. I may have employed...some underhanded methods."

"All your methods were underhanded, darling," said Abhay in her head.

The Council was glancing at each other. She had no clue of knowing whether they'd taken offense or not.

Then finally, Natalya spoke. "Very well. The Court recognizes Piyali Dobriyal as newborn vampire, mated to and sired by Abhayendra Singh. You are also invited to the Seroza Qil. The Court is dismissed. Everyone may leave."

But as Piya got up from her chair, Natalya winked at her.

But as she went to Abhay, she realised he'd put up the barriers again. "By the way," he muttered, as they walked back down the aisle, with the rest of the vampires milling around, "We won't be going to Greece for the honeymoon. Sorry..."

She stopped midway. "What?"

NOTE : Some mature content. Reader's discretion advised.

"Not so loud," Abhay murmured, steering her through the crowd. She glared at him all the way.

Once they were out, she wrenched her arm away. "Tell me what's wrong," she said. "Why can't we-" "Please, Piya," he said in her head. "Don't be angry. I swear I'll tell you everything once we get back to our room." She was silent all the way back, chewing on her words. She couldn't get a hint of what he was thinking. She wished she knew how to do that with her own confused, jumbled thoughts. Abhay was never confused. He always did this to her, making her a confused, stumbling mess, she thought, as the gown snagged on the floor. She yanked it free, too angry to care about the rip in the gown. She would have liked to rip his head off. Abhay could probably still hear her thoughts. Why wasn't he saying something? Why didn't he ever react like she did? She fought to make her mind go totally blank, but couldn't quite manage it. Not when she was feeling as angry as she was. Okay, fine, so they weren't going to Greece. Why did he have to shut off ? Once they were inside the room and the door was locked, she turned to glare at him. To her slight surprise, he was leaning against the wall, his eyes closed as he rubbed his forehead. "Look, I know you're mad," he said finally, looking at her. He looked tired. "And I know you're upset about that I close my mind...I just... I have to, Piya. There are...there's a lot of things going on...and I...I...I'm just not used to doing this. It's...not something I'm comfortable with, and you're still...you're still dealing with a lot right now. I don't think you deserve to burden yourself with my problems, not now, Piya...I know I said I won't hide anything from you, and I won't...once everything gets settled..." He trailed off. "You have every right to be mad," he said. "I know you are." "Why?" said Piya. "Why are you still doing this, Abhay? Why can't you let someone else take your burdens for once?" He smiled sadly and kissed her forehead. "Because I can't be sure they'll be able to carry it." "And as for the honeymoon," he said, "We're not going to Greece. We'll go somewhere else. Now go sleep. We leave for Dehradun tomorrow." "Where?" said Piya, not budging an inch from her position. Now, Abhay gave a slight smirk. "It's a surprise." It was only because the sun was rising that Piya went to sleep. Abhay lay down next to her. In sleep, Piya's thoughts were less in turmoil, more relaxed. He moved closer, and subconsciously, she burrowed into him again. Well, at least that part hadn't changed. He'd been proud of her that night. She'd been been nervous, sure, but when she'd been there, she'd pushed it back and strode off to the Queen. It would be a talking point for several years, just like Sid's had been, but for entirely different reasons. She was right. He was hiding things from her. But he was worried. About so many things. He'd have to teach her how to hunt. She would not like that... He needed to keep her safe from Maithali. Yeah, big headache. Major. He needed to figure out exactly what side Sid was on. And then, he needed to have a long talk with Reina. Oh, and then he didn't want Piya to know where he was going to take her for their honeymoon. He owed her a perfect honeymoon at least.

He touched one of her curls, glancing over at her damaged dress. Should he undress her? She'd fallen asleep in the gown. Surely he should. Well, of course there was the tiny matter of himself. What would it take to resist the temptation of waking her up? His jaw set in a firm line. He could do this. He was only helping her out. He just hoped she didn't wake up accidentally. ***************************************************************

When Piya awoke, she was mildly pleased when she found herself lying half on top of Abhay's chest. She raised her head, seeing his eyes closed, his body unmoving, even as his left hand rested across her lower back. Was he asleep? Maybe she could take the chance to get inside his head. She tried. No such luck. Apparently, Abhay guarded himself in sleep, too. She glanced down at herself. He'd taken the liberty of changing her clothes. And she'd been asleep then. He should have woken her up, she thought.

Abhay shifted in his sleep, his other hand coming to rest on her waist, while his head burrowed into her chest. She shivered. God, no, it was wrong. He was sleeping. She mustn't think of such thoughts.

Still, she could not help herself from stroking his dark hair , so smooth and...soft.

"I like that," said a quietly amused voice. A split second of confusion later, she was shoving him off her. "You pig!"

Abhay lay back on the pillows, his hands behind his head. He was smiling, a real smile, which left her temporarily dazzled before she realized she was supposed to be mad at him. She smacked his chest. "You are such a -" "Hey, don't blame me," he said. "It's not everyday I get to listen in to your thoughts without trying. "

She scowled at him. " I'm still mad at you." He raised an eyebrow. "Are you? How mad are you?"

She resisted the urge to stick her tongue out at him. "Very mad." He nodded gravely. "I feared as much. Nothing I can do will placate you, will it?"

She narrowed her eyes suspiciously. There was something going on... "No." He nodded, as though she had confirmed something. "I see. Well, then-"

She let out a soft squeal as he flipped her over, so that he was now on top of her. "I- No!" she said indignantly. "You can't seduce me into capitulation!"

"I wasn't going to," he assured her in all seriousness, though his eyes were glinting. "Besides, you're hardly going to, right? Nothing I can do can change your mind, isn't it?"

"Yes!" said Piya, trying to push him off her. Damn, damn, damn, she should have escaped when she had the chance.

He simply caught both her wrists in one hand and pinned them above her head. "Sorry, Piya," he said, his tone sounding anything but. "But I'd really like to kiss you. If you don't mind?"

"Huh?" It took her a second to understand what he was saying. "No. No, Abhay, you won't seduce me into this."

"Into what, Piya?" He asked, his voice deceptively soft. His eyes had gone a very dark indigo, and damn, but she thought she could see her own reflected in them. She wet her lips, and his gaze rested on her mouth, centimetres away from contact. "Into...into not being angry at you," she managed to say, and hated herself for her voice not having the bite she had wanted it to have.

"Oh, no," He assured her easily. "I love it when you pretend to be mad at me."

She would have definitely protested, but her mate would not allow that. His lips came down on hers.

And then, of course, resistance was futile. His kiss was slow and inflaming, making her startled at her own response. A low moan escaped her throat as he delved deeper, her own thoughts running amuk with longing. She squirmed against him, wanting to free her hands so she could touch him, but he wouldn't let up.

Her fangs extended without warning as her tongue darted out to outline his own elongated canines. His control slipped, and for a burning moment, she felt the full force of exactly how much she had affected him, and that thought emboldened her. She wasn't the only one here.

He let go of her mouth, staring down at her flushed face. "No, I'm not seducing you into calming down," he said wryly, his voice holding an edge. "You're the one doing the seducing."

She cried out as he dropped nipping kisses down the slender column of her throat, aching to pull him closer, yet he still wouldn't let her free her hands.

His mouth pushed away the fabric from one shoulder, kissing the patch of creamy skin. He dropped to lower skin, his fangs and tongue running over sensitive flesh that puckered at his touch.

She was almost sobbing by now as she pleaded for release. And just like that, the hand that was binding her wrists let go, moving instead to tangle in her hair. She yanked his hair, holding him in place. Her name. She heard her name, running through his head.

And then, abruptly, Abhay paused and moved away from her, gently disentangling her hands. She gaped at him in confusion.

Abhay tugged her T-shirt back into place and got off the bed. "Come on. We mustn't get late."

He faced the mirror, casually setting his own shirt to rights. Piya shot off the bed, shaking in anger. "How dare you!"

His reflection cocked an eyebrow at her. "How dare I what?" She gave him the most hateful glare she could muster. The corners of his mouth twitched. "Before you claw my eyes out, little tiger," he said, "I only stopped because it's not our honeymoon yet. We have to get back first. Consider it a little prologue."

"Prologue," she muttered under her breath. "I'd like to write an epilogue." Her black mood lasted for the rest of the journey back. She glared out of the window and turned her back on him. He made no attempt to apologize, either. When she felt thirsty, he simply handed her a bottle, and she sensed his amusement.

Jerk was laughing at her. Fine, she'd show him- No, better not plan now. Not now, not now, not when he could hear everything.

***************************************************

Haseena stood near the long , shuttered window with tinted glass. Light filtered in, the slanted rays of morning sunshine. Abhay and Piya were to arrive today. A touch of envy hit her. Piya was so lucky. She'd become a vampire at her dying breath, at the hands of someone she loved and trusted. In accordance with her wishes.

She would get blood whenever she wished. She would not know the pain of thirst. Not know how it felt to kill an innocent...hundreds of them.

She was staring off into the light, but she belonged in an age long ago.

Thirst. Horrible, aching thirst. Where was she? She had only gone to pick up some firewood for her family. Then an animal had attacked her...

She rose to her feet and looked around and at herself. There were no injuries on her body, but her neck prickled . She rubbed it unconsciously. She felt dizzy and weak, in addition to thirst. Water. She should get to the river-

She stumbled over to it and took several thirsty gulps, but it didn't help at all. Rather than assuage her thirst, it made her sick. And once she finished retching, she felt more thirsty than ever.

A clatter of hooves, and she stared up. A richly dressed man was dismounting, his handsome face drawn in concern. The Prince. She had long loved him from afar, but had only ever caught glimpses of him. Now, it was only the two of them in the forest. He reached out a hand to her. "What are you doing here in this forest, fair maid?"

"Oh, I-" Haseena had been about to tell him about the animal, but some deep seated instinct told her to hold his tongue. "I'd like to get home," she said formally, bowing. "Of course," he said. "You may ride with me. I can get you home. Should you have no objections, of course."

Happiness swelled in her, almost drowning out the thirst. She accepted his offer, and the two of them rode to the outskirts, where he was joined by his men. Haseena stiffened suddenly.

"Zaid?" said the Prince to someone. "Why are you bleeding?"

The man may have made an an answer, but she didn't hear it. Hardly knowing how she got down, she hurtled towards the direction of the delicious smell, her fangs sinking into skin, the taste of something liquid, enriching her . This was what she had been waiting for. This was what-

"No!" There were a yell, and then she was wrenched away from her meal. Without thinking, she turned on the creature which was depriving her, and sank her fangs into its skin. The body went limp in her arms, falling to the ground. She heard the screams of men, the nervous neighing of horses, the clattering of hooves.

When she looked up, they were all running away from her. She turned back to the dead body of the Prince on the ground, the body of his companion next to him, and she realised what she had done.

She dropped on her knees, an awful scream reverberating around the forest, clawed from her own throat , lamenting the horror and shame of what she had done.

She was still there when the army arrived, bearing weapons to kill her.

There was a tentative hand on her arm, and she jerked back into the present. "Lucas?" She didn't bother to smile. "When did you return?"

Luke shrugged. "About an hour ago. But I was going to say...they're back. Abhay and Piya."

Oh. She shot up to her feet . "Thank you, Luke." He smiled, in that easy manner of his, and followed her outside.

*****************************

The car slowed to a halt, but before Piya could open her door, Abhay's larger hand covered her. She raised her head . "Yes?"

"Wait, please, " he said, shrugging off his jacket and handing it to her. She sat dumbly as he helped her wear it, touched by his concern. The sleeves were past her fingers, and she began to roll it up, but he shook his head. "No. It'll help against the sun."

Once she had managed to zip it up, leaving her with the rather awkward feeling of wearing a balloon, he lifted up the hoodie. "There," he said. "Now it won't burn you."

He opened the door for her and helped her out, while she struggled not to drown in the large jacket. It didn't help that it smelt rather wonderful- A mix of pine, musk and something entirely Abhay. How hadn't she recognized them before? It was addicting.

She saw his mouth twitch, but he said nothing as they walked to the house, where Haseena was waiting for them, along with Luke.

It was a relief being indoors, she thought, smiling.

"Great firstie there, Piya," said Luke, sounding admiring. "Everyone's talking about you."

She frowned. "What?"

"Your spark!" said Luke, as though she were being deliberately obtuse. "You know, at the Court?"

She turned astonished brown eyes to his own, a shade darker than hers. "You were there?"

Luke laughed. "Of course I was."

"Oh," she said stupidly.

"We're so proud of you, dear," said Haseena, smiling. "Abhay, take the poor girl upstairs. She must rest. Your father's just gone out to clear some of the tickets- by the way, why is Piya wearing your jacket?"

Abhay lifted an eyebrow. "Sunburn, Mom. You know that, right?"

"It suits her," said Luke, grinning as they walked to their rooms. "She looks like a drowned kitten."

"Luke!" She gasped in outrage, but he only grinned. "It's true."

"Oh, go to your room," said Abhay rudely once they reached the landing. "Piya needs rest, not more yelling at me."

Luke grinned at her and walked to his own room.

Piya yawned, as they reached the room. "Abhay...have to pack clothes," she murmured. "When do we leave?" She was too exhausted to fight anymore. He helped her out of her jacket, then carried her to the bed, gently arranging the covers around her.

"Don't leave," she said on another yawn. He kissed her head as he came to lie beside her. "I won't."

"Mmm..." She cuddled up to him, and then murmured, half asleep, "I'm not really mad at you."

"I know," he said, cradling her close to him. "Good."

And then she was asleep.

When Piya awoke, she was at first disorientated to realise that Abhay wasn't next to her. The room was dark, the fire having burnt low in the grate. Her eyes didn't take long to catch on to the solitary figure sitting in the chair, his head lolling back.

"Luke? Where's Abhay?" Startled by the question, Luke sat up. "I-uh- hey," he said. "Abhay just went out a few minutes ago. Some important meeting. Don't worry, he'll be back. Want a drink?"

He was already unscrewing the bottle, pouring the red liquid into a tall glass and handing it to Piya. "Thanks," she said, downing it. "Where's he gone?"

She didn't want to show it, but she was worried. Why had Abhay gone? To meet whom? Luke shook his head. "Wouldn't tell me. Why don't you use your link?"

Piya delved inside her mind , catching the thread that connected both of them, and called his name. The response was instantaneous. "Piya," Abhay said quietly,"I'm sorry I left. I had to talk to someone. Are you all right?"

"Fine," she sent back, and opened her eyes to see Luke hold out another glass. "Wow," he commented lightly. "You really did mate. Sorry," he added to Piya's questioning look. "It's rare to happen this soon. A lot of feathers were ruffled when Abhay introduced you as his mate to the Court, you know?"

She finished off her second glass. "Why?" Luke grinned. "A lot of vampires held something of a...crush, you call it, right?-on Abhay." She gave him a sour look. "Figures."

"He's never been interested," said Luke. "So you don't have to worry. "

"Oh, thanks," said Piya. "Luke, listen...how do yo block your mind from your mate?"

Luke looked surprised. "Why? Are you angry with him?" "No," said Piya sighing. "He keeps doing it. I'm just worried he'll explode some day bottling it all up."

Luke nodded. "Yes, I know. Abhay's always been like that. But with you, he's different, Piya. More...tolerant, I think. More talkative."

Her eyes went wide. He used to be worse than now?

"Yeah," he said, chuckling at her expression. "Well, anyway- Piya, if you're planning to get through the block, it's not likely to happen. Abhay's a lot older than even me...a lot more experienced. So even if I wanted to help, I wouldn't know how."

"How old are you?" said Piya curiously.

Luke smiled. "Young in vampire terms. Old in human, I think. Natalya changed me in 1942. I was dying on the battlefield. World War II."

She gasped. "You were a soldier?"

Luke looked confused. "Yes. Why?" "Nothing," said Piya hastily. "It's just..you're so friendly.I'd have thought you'd be like Abhay, more...it would have been awful, wouldn't it? Any war is..."

She saw pain flash his face, before it was gone. And Piya realised, with a flash of insight, that Luke's mask was almost as good as Abhay's- even though it was different.

She stared at him. "Luke, I-"

"Hi." Abhay entered the room, and Piya's eyes flashed to him. His own flickered between the two of them . "What's going on? Exchanging confidences already?" Luke smiled easily. "Of course not. Well, I'll leave you two to it, then." He glanced at Piya. "We must meet again. I have a feeling you'll help me understand humans a lot more."

She smiled back at him, and he left. As soon as they were alone, Piya turned to Abhay. "Where were you?" She asked, crossing her arms. He ran a hand through his hair. "Sorry, Piya," he said, sounding genuinely apologetic. "I had to meet someone before we left."

"Before we left?" said Piya. "Yeah," he said, as though it was quite obvious. "Before we left for the honeymoon."

Her eyes widened. "Now? I haven't packed anything!"

"Relax," he said. "Alina's already got your bags packed. We leave in an hour, so all you have to do is dress up." Piya frowned. She didn't like it. And then an idea took root in her head. "Okay, Abhay," she said very politely. Abhay's eyebrows instantly met. Keeping her thoughts carefully blank, she said, "It's really bugging me that you're keeping things from me. But I'm not going to fight you over it, if you will do something for me."

His eyes widened. "What is it?"

She smirked as she walked over to the wardrobe and selected an outfit. "You'll teach me how to close my mind off from you." She smiled. Abhay shook his head. "Underhanded, Piya. Underhanded."

*********************************************************************************

Vienna, Austria.

"You own a house here?" said Piya in shock as they sat in the car. "Um, yes," said Abhay. "I've lived here. You'll like this place," he said earnestly. "It's better for you right now. You need to be in colder places. That's why we couldn't go to Greece."

She waved a hand, all anger gone. He'd more than made up for everything, what with teaching her to throw up shields in her head.

And she'd been a horrible student. It had taken her quite a few hours of patient guidance from him to make a weak shield. She'd got so frustrated, but Abhay had never lost his calm. He'd in fact told her that she was progressing very well, that it was horribly difficult for newborns. For the past three days, it was almost a rehash of the past when they were both human and he was teaching her how to shoot an arrow. Still, by now she could somehow put up a shield, although she knew that if Abhay exerted himself, he'd get past it in no time.

"Tell me what I'm thinking," she demanded, looking up at him. She'd become obsessed by her new game. Abhay frowned. He could sense her shield now, and it disconcerted him. Was this how Piya felt? He could have broken it and told her exactly what she was thinking, but that wouldn't be fair. She was only a newborn. So he studied her expression instead. "You're thinking up new ways to turn my hair grey somehow. Even if that's not possible. " She swatted him. "I am not!" "No?" he echoed, amused. "That is certainly a relief to know."

Vienna was beautiful, Piya thought, as she looked out through the windows. It was early in the night, and she wanted to look around already. "How long will it take for us to reach your house?" She asked him. Abhay smiled slightly. "About half an hour now."

"Since when have you had it?" She asked. There were so many places Abhay had probably lived in, that she hadn't even seen once... "It's Dad's, actually," said Abhay. The speech barrier was up, so he could speak freely. "Or should I say , his grandad. Left the place in 1923, poor guy was taken rather ill." She giggled. "And they won't recognize you?" She asked him. "The caretakers or anyone?" Abhay shook his head, smiling wryly. "Of course not. I'm coming here for the first time." "Liar," she accused, rolling her eyes. "Yeah, but no one except you know that," he said. "And I doubt you want to get me arrested on our honeymoon."

She shook her head. "No. Not now, anyway."

That night, when everything had quieted down on the roads, Abhay took Piya up to the top of the Danube Tower. "My god," she gasped as she stared out at the stunning view of the lit city, leaning over the bannisters. "Can we stay here for the whole night? Pretty please?" "Anything you want," said Abhay softly, moving to stand behind her, his hand over hers. "I'm glad you like the view. We'll tour the city for the rest of the week." His lips moved to nuzzle her earlobe. She shivered, before throwing up a shield and moving away gracefully. "Not now," she said easily. "Let me enjoy the view, Abhay."

She smiled a secret smile at Abhay's off-kilter expression, and redoubled her efforts at keeping the shield steady. "Of course. I wouldn't dream of disturbing you."

The next few days passed like a dream. The next day, Abhay took her to the Vienna State Opera, for a magical evening. They went for long walks through the many gardens at night, when there was not a soul around.

Abhay kept a distance, his eyes always watching her. She would have been sorry that she kept pushing him away if she hadn't wanted revenge on him first. Nevertheless, Abhay took her to the Burgtheater( translating the entire play to her, which was in German) then took her to the Kursalon Vienna concert hall to listen to Mozart. She'd never had much of a taste for him, but after that evening, she decided he was her new favourite.

Then, he'd taken her to view the beautiful historical buildings and palaces on Ring Avenue, explaining the many historical events, as well as a few things Piya doubted she'd ever find in a history textbook.

On their last evening, he took her to see the Hundertwasser House, designed by an eccentric architect, F.Hundertwasser. She could only see the exterior, but it was a riot of colours, with hardly a straight line. She'd never imagined that so many colours splashed on a house could look so beautiful, but somehow it did.

And then Abhay surprised her beyond belief by taking her to a nightclub. "What?" He said defensively when she stared at him. "I didn't know you liked this sort of thing," she observed, frowning. "I don't," said Abhay. "But I know you did. I thought... I'd try out something new with you."

She stared at him in astonishment, and something inside her burst. She reached up and kissed his jaw. "Abhay, I don't deserve you. But for what it's worth, I love you." His eyes softened at her. "You deserve more," he said, his voice rough. "It's the least I could do." She couldn't say a word, as he escorted her inside.

Once in, Abhay glanced around distrustfully at the crowd and pulled her closer. "Abhay," said Piya softly, "We don't have to be here, you know. We could leave."

"No," said Abhay. "We'll do this." Piya smiled. "You've never danced at a nightclub, have you? Never got drunk, never taken a one night stand..."

He grimaced. "Never saw the appeal." Piya smirked. "Well, come on, then. Let's cross them off."

"I'm not getting drunk and I'm not getting a one night stand on my honeymoon, Piya," he said acerbically.

Piya grinned. "Yes, you are. Wait here." She all but pushed him to the bar. "Now. Can I buy you a drink? Mr..."

Abhay's eyes widened ever so slightly as he realized. "Raichand. Actually, I was about to ask you if I could buy you a drink."

Piya smiled, her lashes lowering. "Why didn't you, then?"

"You beat me to it. What would you like?"

"Vodka, please. You?" He smiled slightly. "Same." He gave the order.

Their shots arrived. "You didn't give me your name," said Abhay.

"Piya."

"Pleased to meet you, Piya," he said, his voice low, but she didn't miss a word, even with the loud music. "I'm Abhay." Piya emptied her glass. "Hi, Abhay. Would you dance with me?"

He finished his own drink, and held out a hand. "It would be my pleasure."

She let him pull her closer as they joined the throng on the dance floor. "So,Piya," she loved how he said her name, "What brings you to Vienna?"

His hands rested on her hips as they swayed to a rhythm of their own. Piya smirked, playing with the collar of his shirt. "Stalking my husband."

"Oh, I see," he murmured. "Where is he now?" She leaned closer to whisper in his ear. "I think he's dancing with some girl over here." "Are you trying to make him jealous?" said Abhay, his left hand now resting on the back of her neck. "Maybe," she replied, her brown eyes blazing. "Then," said Abhay, whose eyes had gone very stormy, "By all means, let's give him a show."

Their lips met, even as they moved on the dance floor. Piya felt as though every nerve ending had been electrocuted to life. Abhay's mouth. She ran her tongue over his extended fangs, mimicking him. Abhay pulled her closer still, stroking her hair, but his gentle touch belied the urgency she caught a glimpse of in his head through the mind link. He tore away from her. "I don't know about you, but I would really rather not take you on the dance floor of a nightclub."

"Fine," she said through closed lips. Her fangs were still extended. "Your place or mine?"

His brow quirked in humour. "Ours."

Piya had no idea how she and Abhay managed to get back. The way back was tense, both of them sitting as far apart as they could, pressed to the doors. Yet, as they got out, Abhay calmly paid the driver, then unlocked the door. "After you," he said coolly. And it made her boil. How dare he act all nice and calm when she was breaking apart inside. She clenched her fists. As soon as Abhay locked the door, she yanked him to her, her mouth melding to his.

And just like that, the icy hauteur dissolved, as he backed her up almost instantly against the wall, trapping her with his hands placed on either side of her face. Not that she wanted to move, but she'd rarely seen this side of him, the completely uncontrolled side that was almost animal. His shields were down, and she could hear every thought, every desire, and need coursed through her like a potent drug as he ravaged her mouth, making her toes curl.

Shaking himself, Abhay let go of her - but only for a second. The next, he'd caught her short red dress with one hand and ripped it off her body. His own shirt was unbuttoned- when had she done that? She didn't want to waste wondering, as Abhay swing her up in his arms and carried her to the bedroom.

"God, Piya, you're gorgeous," he murmured, removing the final barriers of her clothes. Not wanting to be held back, she worked on his shirt and trousers stopping only when he was just as bare as her.

He rolled her over, so that she was now on top of him, as she stared down at him, with eyes that were as blue as his own. She leaned over and kissed him, her fangs grazing his lips, his own nipping her tongue. Piya rode him to a breathless completion, her fangs sinking into his neck as she let out a scream. It was only when Abhay'd rolled back on top of her that she realized he'd bitten her, too.

Abhay buried his face in her , holding her close. "Damn, Piya, you tease," he said. "You planned this out , didn't you? That's why..."

She raised herself on an arm , looking at him. "Serves you right." He smiled then, a full, happy smile. "I liked having a one night stand with you." His smile turned teasing. "I think this'll go down as one of my top favourites."

She smirked. "Good. Mine, too."

His expression suddenly went from teasing to serious. "I do hope you're not tired yet, Piya," he said, tracing a slow pattern over her breasts that ignited her again. "Because you have a lot to make up for."

*************************************************************************************

Skagen, Denmark

The first impression that Piya had when they landed at the town of Skagen , in Denmark was of a wonderful coolness of weather. That was followed by the realization that there were hardly many people.

"No, we don't have a house here," said Abhay in response to her thought question. "We're staying at a hotel. You don't mind, do you?" She shook her head, her loose hair flying. "No. Isn't this place great? There's hardly anyone here." "Compared to Dehradun, no," said Abhay, his hand absentmindedly drawing circles over her back. "This place is the northernmost part of Denmark.I thought you'd appreciate the cold." She smiled. It was sunset, and the view was beautiful, as they stood on the balcony of the hotel, holding glasses of what would look like wine to a casual observer. "Tonight," said Abhay, "We'll be visiting the Skagen lighthouse." She turned to him , her eyes shining with pleasure. "I can't wait." He smiled. "We'll be the only ones there. The lighthouse is open till 4 pm only." His eyes gleamed as though he too was revelling in the thrill of their shared transgression. "You were awake for almost half the day today," said Abhay. "How are you feeling? Tired?" She turned to him. "A bit, but not much." He nodded. "I think you must try to sleep tonight, once we get back. Tomorrow, we'll have to take an outing in the morning. But only if you're up to it." A few hours later, when they were both standing at the lighthouse, watching the waves, and Piya said, "What am I thinking, Abhay?" Abhay turned to her. It took him a full minute to push back her shields. "Good improvement," he nodded. "And no, you are going to sleep tonight. There'll be plenty of time later." "Bore," she complained."Really?" he said incredulously. "That's the worst you can come up with ?" ******************************************************************** The next day, they went to see a museum which was once the house of celebrated painters Michael and Anna Ancher. "They married quite young, from what they said," said Abhay quietly as they stood in front of a portrait by Michael Ancher, of his wife. "I knew them briefly, but they did seem happy." "You're a walking historian, just because you know half the people," said Piya teasingly. "It's not nice, you know. You're giving me a complex." Abhay rolled his eyes. "If you'd like me to keep my mouth shut..." "No." She scowled at him. They spent four days in Skagen, touring the city. Piya loved the Grenen, which was the meeting point of the North and the Baltic seas, and was very interested in the Rabjerg Mile sand dune- "It moves about 20 yards each year," Abhay told her. When they were leaving in their private jet, Piya turned to Abhay. "Where are we going next?" She asked brightly. Abhay smiled. "Go to sleep, Piya. You'll find out once we get there." Olden, Norway If Piya had loved Vienna and Skagen, she was beyond mesmerised by Olden, the small, charming village uncluttered by the taint of pollution. Most of the people there were tourists, given that the number of locals was in hundreds. But Piya loved it from the first moment she saw it, and told Abhay so. "It's like you in your human life and you later," she said earnestly. "Like, I couldn't help falling for Abhayendra, you know? But you... I never had a chance with you." He couldn't help the short laugh which escaped him. "Thank you, I guess. I'm now wondering whether to be flattered or jealous." She smiled. "Be flattered." They would be staying at a cottage. "No, this isn't ours," said Abhay wryly as they entered. "One of Dad's ...friends. He lent us for a while. He's in Iceland now."

"Your dad knows a lot of people, doesn't he?" said Piya curiously. "Our pilot, and this man, whoever he was..." "Oh, yeah," said Abhay. "Dad used to be member of the Council, you see. So yeah, he's really kind of popular among the community."

"Was he really?" said Piya, astonished. "Why did he leave?" Abhay shrugged. "He never explained too much about it. But I think it was because of Mom...why, I don't know. Maybe he just got tired of the politics."

Of course, thought Piya, Abhay's adopted father could have easily been a Council member. No wonder he was so intimidating. She felt Abhay's amusement at her thoughts. "Come, Piya," he said gently. "You should go sleep."

"I can stay awake during the day now," she said obstinately. "You should still avoid the sunlight, Piya," said Abhay, shaking his head. "You're still a fledgling."

She made a face. "Don't call me that. I'm not a kid."

"Of course not," Abhay agreed gravely. "You're definitely an adult." The spark in his eyes gave him away, and she fought back her own smile. "Okay," she said. "I'll go and change."

It was dusk, and Piya was still sleeping soundly. Abhay was in the living room, staring into the depths of the burning fireplace, thinking about his last meeting with Reina. God, but why Piya? Why him?

Piya was still under danger as a vampire, somehow trying to accustom herself to a different way of life. Sleeping at different times, getting a new diet...oh, she'd taken it like the fighter she was, but he hadn't even taught her how to hunt, yet. And their supply was running out. He would have to hunt for her.

"Stop worrying about me," said a soft voice, and Abhay felt Piya's arms wind around him. "By the way, were your shields down?"

He took her in his arms and kissed her lingeringly. "No, my shields weren't down," he said as they parted. "But...you're supposed to exchange blood thrice with someone to be their mate. We're closer now because we've done it once. But you're getting better with your shield. I didn't hear you at all."

Piya smiled, and shook her head. "No. That was because you were worrying yourself to distraction. I don't think you realize how lucky I feel to have this life with you, Abhay. I don't expect this to be a cakewalk, and I know it won't be. But you're worth it, Abhay. You've always been worth it."

*********************************************

They went for a walk that night. Olden was very sparsely populated, so the streets were totally empty as they walked. Abhay held her close, as they talked, using the mind link.

It never failed to amaze Piya exactly how much she loved talking with him. Discussing every other thing with him, from books and movies to music and art. She wouldn't have thought it possible, but she fell even harder for him. They watched the sun rise, and then returned so Piya could sleep.

The next night, Abhay took her hiking. They crossed two mountains, the mud under her boots turning to snow, crunching under her feet. Finally, Abhay stopped. The moon shone overhead, almost full, and the snow sparkled. It was beautiful.

"Where are we?" said Piya, taking a deep breath, inhaling the many scents in the air.

"This is the Jostedal Glacier National Park," said Abhay. "We're breaking quite a few rules by entering...but you need to have fresh blood." "Oh."

She had been anticipating this, but her stomach still felt a little queasy. She would be killing something... "You don't have to do it," said Abhay softly. "Tonight, you watch. Just try and keep up. "

And then they were silent. Abhay walked softly, purposefully, with the easy grace of a predator accustomed to winning. She found herself mimicking him subconsciously, watching the fluidity of his movements. And then Abhay stopped, standing very still. She recognized the scent from the image that Abhay sent her, and then she saw it. A fox.

The fox yipped, noting their presence, and took off. Abhay stayed still for several moments, giving it time, and then took off.

Running Abhay felt amazing. The cold wind whipped her hair, snow scrunching under her foot. She felt breathless with anticipation. But Abhay was much faster than her : she sensed he was slowing down just a tad so that she could keep up. And then he was on the fox, puncturing the neck swiftly, and offering it to her.

Piya took a deep breath, knelt down on the ground, and drank. It was a magical, exciting thing : the blood was more invigorating than she had ever tasted, and soon she had drained him completely. Abhay took her arm, motioning her to stand. She stood up, and he immediately held her in a hug, soothing her immediately troubled mind. "We have to do this to survive, Piya," he said softly. "And the regret doesn't go, but it's the only option right now." She drew away shakily, shaking fox fur off her gloved hands and shirt. She'd expected some bloodstains, but there were none. It was a clean, precise kill.

"Come see the glacier," said Abhay quietly. "It's right in the middle of the park."

For the major part of the night, they stayed sitting on the glacier, arms wrapped around each other. Sometimes, words weren't necessary.

Two nights later, they went hiking up to the Briksdal glacier. The road was slippery, and twice she slipped, but Abhay held her each time. And then they came closer to a waterfall. The water cascaded with a roar, spraying them both lightly.

"The Kleivafossen waterfall," Abhay told her. "It's one of the most famous waterfalls in Norway."

"Can we go closer?" said Piya, delighting in the feel of water over her face. His hand was closing over hers. "I don't mind," he said, his voice almost a whisper. He watched, as she moved closer, letting the water drench her from head to foot. Piya jumped for joy, her laughter ringing over the hills, as the light of the full moon washed over her. He couldn't look away from her, all innocence and exuberance.

Her hair glinted in the moonlight as she twirled, making Abhay's chest constrict with the now familiar feeling. Walking to the ends of the earth suddenly didn't feel so ridiculous anymore. Piya stopped, turning to look at Abhay.

He was standing where she had left him, but his eyes were watching her intently. They stared at each other for a few moments, and the atmosphere shifted, suddenly charged. Piya was suddenly conscious of her white shirt sticking to her body, and Abhay's gaze, lingering on each of her curves. "Maybe, Piya," said Abhay softly, but with that predatory expression on his face. "We should go home."

His voice was velvet, shooting bolts of electricity through her. Without a word, she tossed back her hair and took off at a run, racing back, over the mountains. She didn't turn to see if Abhay was following her, slowing down to a jog as she made her way back to the cottage- except that Abhay was already there, the door half open.

She crashed into him, their mouths fusing together. Without breaking the kiss, he caught her up in his arms and took her to the bedroom. She yanked at his shirt, making buttons scatter everywhere. "Another one ruined," said Abhay reproachfully. "You'll pay for that."

His hands kneaded her curves through the transparent fabric, causing her eyes to roll back in her head. His fangs nipped her chin, making her gaze snap back to his. "Look at me," he whispered, as he slowly, excruciatingly, peeled her clothes away from her, his skilled hands finding each one of her erogenous points, touching and stroking until she was sobbing with pleasure. His gaze broke off from hers, but only to place a bite over her breast, then soothe it with his tongue.

Her nails scourged his back, leaving gashes none of them cared about, as they took turns pleasuring each other. When they finally became one, she shattered, and an instant later, she felt him collapse on top of her. "I love you...God, so much," The words were a whispered murmur, as she ran her fingers through his hair.

Abhay didn't let go of her for two entire days. Not that she was complaining : when he wasn't seducing her, she was seducing him. It didn't take much, after all.

Swansea, Wales

The picturesque town in south western Wales was cool. The Swansea Bay crashed against the cliffs, and Piya could hear them from their room in the hotel, close to the beach.

"Go to sleep," said Abhay firmly. "We're going out in the evening."

She sighed. "Fine. Dictator."

As they walked along the Bracelet Bay beach in the evening, Piya was having a hard time ignoring the many female stares directed at Abhay.

"You know, I think I liked it better in Norway," she told Abhay. "At least we didn't have so many people!"

"You didn't seem to have a problem with people before," said Abhay, amused. "You're just jealous."

"I'm not jealous," she growled. "Yes, you are, and it's cute," said Abhay, smiling. "If it helps, you're attracting a lot of attention yourself. Perhaps you should have worn a longer skirt-"

"And perhaps you will keep your fashion sense to yourself," she told him severely. "Black even at night." She shook her head.

They walked on, till they were alone. Then Piya took off her slippers, squealing in pleasure as the sand trickled under her feet. After a minute, she forced him to do the same, too. They sat on a cliff, watching the crash of the waves. Then Piya said quietly , "So maybe Swansea has more people, Abhay, but I think I love this place, too." "Good," he murmured, his lips on the top of her heard.

The next day, they went to visit the Oystermouth Castle, which was apparently built in the 1100s, then destroyed in a fire and rebuilt again a century later.

Abhay had never been to Wales, so this time, they were on equal footing for the history at least. They toured the castle, with the beautiful paintings, the high glass bridge, Alina's Chapel ("Wait till I tell her she's got a chapel named after her," Piya said, grinning as they clicked photos) and the breathtaking view of the Swansea Bay.

The next day, they went walking through the Penllargare Valley Woods, a beautiful place with lakes and waterfalls. Abhay hunted for her again, and this time, she was less queasy as she drank the blood. "I'll take you hunting once we get back," Abhay promised her. "It'll be easier then."

Two days and quite a few parks,castles and beaches after, they went on a bike trek in the Dulais Valley. "Did you ever learn how to ride a bike?" Piya'd asked skeptically. Abhay'd rolled his eyes. "Try me and find out." After an hour of riding through mountains at breakneck speed, Piya did indeed "find out." She certainly found that she did need to rest.

The next night,Abhay took Piya to Brandy Cove, a secluded beach which they arrived at by a cliff path.

The tide was low, so the sandy stretches were partially visible. Piya slipped off her sandals again, sitting down on the wet sand, wetting her feet in the water. Abhay seemed to hesitate before he came to sit beside her. She moved closer to him at once, and felt his arm come to rest around her. "This place used to be a favourite with the alcohol smugglers," said Abhay, rubbing her arm perhaps unconsciously, but it made no difference : her awareness ratcheted up. "Hence the name. Did you know the locals believed that a witch used to live here?"

She raised her head to nuzzle his neck and jaw. His grip on her tightened fractionally. "How romantic," she said drily. "Who was this witch?" Her sandy hand went to his shirt, carefully undoing a button. Abhay's eyes darkened. "They call her Old Moll," he murmured, his voice deeper than usual. "Apparently she brought bad luck-" He broke off on a hiss as she kissed his now uncovered chest. "What are you doing?" He said in her head. In answer, she pushed him back on the sand, coming on top of him. "Piya, no," he said shaking his head. "This is a beach- we can't-" He broke off on an expletive as her hand stroked his abdomen, and moved lower. "I think we can," she said coyly, kissing his navel. "Don't you want to?"

He took by surprise, rolling over so that she was underneath him. Sand tickled her , and she wriggled, causing a delicious tremor to shoot up to her nether regions due to the delightful friction.

His mouth came down on hers, robbing her of all thought except him. But then a wave crashed down on them.

They froze, Abhay's hand inside her cotton shirt, hers in his hair. "Oh, damn," he said, and she agreed with the sentiment. They stood, the tension still between them, greater than ever. "I can't wait till the hotel," said Piya, shaking. "I'm not asking you to."

Seconds later, they were in one of the many caves in the beach, exploring each other with their hands and mouths. Abhay's fingers stroked a fiery trail down from her neck to her breasts, while her own explored the hard planes of his stomach. "You're covered with sand, and it makes me jealous," he whispered in her ear, his eyes glowing indigo, his fangs extended. "Then clean me off," she suggested, nipping his earlobe. "I'd prefer your hands on me rather than-" She broke off as his tongue swirled over the sensitive spot on her shoulder. "Abhay, please, please-"

He acceded to her unspoken plea as they fulfilled each other till the first pinkish glow appeared on the horizon.

Paris, France

"I thought you could help me tour this place," said Abhay, as Piya let out a gasp at the familiar city. She had so many memories associated with this city. And now, Abhay would become a part of them. Was this how he felt ? "Not exactly," Abhay muttered wryly, shaking his head. "You're in every happy memory I have."

His casual statement, delivered without an ounce of anger or pain at the horrible loneliness she knew he'd gone through cut through her. She took his hand. "You wait, Abhay. I'll make Paris unforgettable for you."

The following week was something entirely different. She took him to the Eiffel Tower, the Opera Garnier, the Hemmingway Bar as well as the modelling agency she'd worked at. Piya was a known face in the city, and more than one person who recognized her would stop and talk to them, demanding to know about her next calender, or her handsome boyfriend- husband, she corrected them, to Abhay's amusement. He was very patient, she thought, as he conversed endlessly with them in fluent French, telling them what she hesitated to : that she was not going to work for the camera now, because he didn't want anyone else looking at her.

She'd blushed at that. The gossip rags tomorrow would be full of the romance between the model of yesterday and her whirlwind marriage with her secret boyfriend.

"I don't mind," said Abhay in their hotel room, as they lay tangled together, when she told him about it. "I mean, yeah, it's going to be awkward, but that's one of the thing I'll have to deal with, you being a celeb and all, while I'm a boring business guy-"

She laughed aloud. "Yeah. And you've got the celeb working for you anyway, so it's hardly a bad situation for you."

He smirked. "Exactly. I have you at my command 24*7."

Abhay's cell phone rang. She caught a glimpse of an unsaved number and his guarded expression as he answered in a clipped voice.

"Yes?"

Whoever was talking must have given some really horrible news, because Abhay's mask was back in a flash. "Fine. Wait till I get back."

He cut the call and turned to her. He didn't have to tell her : he'd opened his mind so she could hear his thoughts. They would have to go back a month shorter than planned. Horror and panic engulfed her as she read his thoughts and realized why.

And the same four letter word echoed in both their heads.

"We have to do something, Alina!" Piya exclaimed, pacing the Raichands' library.

She was the only one on her feet : the other three vampires were sitting at a table, whereupon a note lay. Piya had memorised it word for word, which was no testament to her memory skills : the note itself was quite short, having been delivered to the Raichand Mansion. " My dearest Piya, I would love to meet you soon. We are quite overdue for one, don't you think? You may of course bring your husband with you. Your sister and her boyfriend are already here with me. We are establishing quite the bond. Won't you come meet me, this Saturday, 12 o'clock at night? Your old friend- M."

The note, inocucous as it sounded, nevertheless was awful for Piya, because M stood for Maithali, and what the note basically meant was that Misha and Kabir would be in her power. Held to ransom and the ransom was her.

It had been Sid who had brought it to them.

"Piya, do sit down," Alina snapped with little patience. "We can't just do something, because we're trying to figure out a way by which we can save the three of you. So I'd appreciate it if you stopped lording it over the rest of us!"

"She's my sister!" Piya cried, sweeping out a whole shelf of books on to the floor. "This is my sister, and my friend's life on the line, damn you! This is not a game."

Abhay caught her arm, forcing her to look at him. She stared at his face, inscrutable as ever, but behind the many barriers he'd once again erected she sensed an uncoiling pain...and fear. He was afraid, for her, for Misha, for Kabir. "Shh," he murmured, holding her passive body in a one armed hold. "Calm down. Calm down, okay? Worrying isn't going to do any good." " As much as I hate to agree with my brother, in this case I must," said Sid in his slow, drawling voice. "We can't exchange one for the other. Maithali knows what she's dping- she'll expect us - especially you, Piya-to come running to your sister's aid. No doubt, that is just what you were going to do?"

Abhay frowned at his brother, while Piya glared at him in cold hatred. "Like you'd understand. Every single thing you've ever done is for yourself! What would you'd know about giving someone else's life greater priority?"

Sid's eyes flashed, but he smiled back just as coldly. "I wish dear old Mum had changed you. Or Dad. I swear, you're more noble and reckless than my dear brother."

"How dare you imply-"

"Enough, damn it!" Alina yelled. "Enough! This is what she wants, don't any of you get it? She wants to pit us against each other!" "I do get it, honey," said Sid, still maddeningly casual, " It's my baby vampire friend who doesn't. We are friends now, I suppose?" He asked, glancing at Piya."You are my sister in law, you know."

"Stop it," said Abhay mildly. "Right now, if you please. I won't be able to hold her off if she decides to take a swing at you." His tone was calm, but his eyes were glittering. "We have to make a plan," said Alina shortly. "I can find out where Misha and Kabir are- and we'all need two people. I can hold her off for a while now-"

"No offense," said Sid, "But last time I looked, you weren't doing too well against her. How do you know if-"

"I was weak and exhausted," said Alina shortly. "No thanks to your sweetheart. I can handle her, so save the concern."

"I'm in,' said Abhay. "I don't know if any of you have noticed, but so far, we haven't discussed the fact that Maithali has not-" he picked up the paper,"-written a place where Piya will meet her."

"That's because ever since you came here, we've all been busy," said Alina tartly. "Sid with his lovely, unhelpful comments, Piya ranting against the entire world, save you, and you very kindly trying to prevent her committing a murder-"

Sid and Piya both opened their mouths to retort, but Abhay beat them to it. " And you're busy flinging accusations," he said. "You realize we are all under stress here?"

This time, Piya flopped on the chair, her eyes sliding closed. "Please can we get on with it?" "Right," said Alina. She stood up and began to pace. "Like Abhay said, Maithali hasn't given a place -which means, she is expecting you to come to me for help. And Abhay, too. So either we make a plan excluding you and Abhay-because I'm the only one who'll be able to find them-yes, Abhay, what is the joke?"

Abhay, whose lips were twitching, said, "Nothing, Alina-except that you'll have to take my parents with you, and explain so many things along the way...and there is the fact that Dad cannot stand to be told what to do, and while Mom might help, she's not a fighter and never has been. So your best choice is me." "And me," said Sid. "But of course, you already knew that, didn't you, Alina?" Alina bit her lip as she considered. "Okay," she said finally. "But Piya will have to stay back here." Piya's eyes widened. "Excuse me?"

"Excused," said Alina. "You can't go. It's unsafe for you as well as Misha- if Maithali had any sense, she would use the bond you two have against each other, and Kabir. She would use your love to destroy you. Not only that, but Abhay will not be able to function properly if anything were to happen to you. You must understand that." Piya was shaking her head in horror. "No. You can't do this. I deserve to go, I'm a vampire now, I need to see them-" She looked at Abhay pleadingly. For a second, Abhay hesitated. Then he shook his head. "I'm sorry, Piya."

All the fury seemed to ebb out from her. He still didn't see her as an equal. She was a risk. "I see," she said bitterly. "Sorry to be such a threat to your plans. I'll let myself out. I'm sure you all would prefer it if stayed away from your strategies. Good luck." She turned her head and stalked put, head held high. Only when she had reached their room and locked the door did she scratch away the ice from her cheeks.

*********************************************************

Far away, in a town where it was night time, a house stood on the outskirts. Dilapidated and run down, it seemed completely uninhabited, just as it had been for several years. The locals stayed away from it, since no one who had gone in had come back alive to tell the tale.

But in this very house, in one of the dark rooms, a young couple was sitting on the bed, huddling close to each other in fear. They were not bound, but they were trapped for sure, because they could not get down from the bed.

The girl spoke in the silent darkness. "When do you think she'll be back?" Her voice was barely a whisper. "I don't know, Mish," the boy whispered back. "She must have left a few minutes ago."

There was silence.

"Thakur?" whispered Misha weakly. "Do you think we'll ever get out of here?" "I don't know," said Kabir, swallowing. They were both thirsty, and hungry, after being kept in captivity for a day. In the beginning, he'd been even more clueless than Misha- mistaking Maithali for Piya. But he was already cataloguing the differences : Maithali's eyes were narrower and colder. Her laughter was high, and chilling. And oh yeah- she kidnapped people just to get back at her doppelganger. He had no idea how he'd mistaken it the first time, but then, so had Misha. Both of them had thought it was Piya.

When she's brought them here, she'd smiled that cold smile of hers, and said, "Don't worry. I won't bite you- yet. I'm just waiting for your sister, Misha Dobriyal. I'm sure she'd come."

When she'd left them, Misha had explained to him about Piya and Abhay being...well, not human. He just didn't feel like saying the word "vampire" in his head. Not sweet, innocent Piya who had helped him win over Misha.

It didn't fit. Now Abhay- yes, he could believe that. He exuded danger. But then again, he'd seen the guy when Piya'd taken off for a week. Abhay had hardly come to college then, except a day or two. And he'd gone to Paris, to search for her. It was too human, too real. Several times, he'd wondered if Misha was imagining things due to fear and stress. But no : he'd seen the conviction in her face. And when Maithali spoke of Piya coming for Misha, it was probably safe to assume it was true.

Goddamn it, but his throat was parched and Misha was lying down. She was probably in a worse way than him. He didn't care what Piya was. He just wanted to get Misha out.

************************************************

She knew he was outside the door the moment he was there : not by the quiet knock that followed, but by the way she felt him in her head, pushing for entry. Abhay never pushed. "Let me in, please," she heard him plead : it was both literary and figurative.

"Go away!" she shouted aloud, hoping he would take the hint- large as it was- and leave. She didn't want his consoling words right now. No such luck.

Abhay pushed again, this time cleaving through all her barriers as if they were nothing, and then, of course, she might as well have left the door open for all the difference it made.

Shame and humiliation crashed through her. She was pathetic. Five minutes and hardly his effort- that's all it had taken for him to destroy the barriers around her head. No wonder he didn't think she should go. She was a liability. A threat.

"No, damn it Piya, you are not a liability," she heard him say, sounding frustrated now. "Piya, please try to understand-"

"Just go!" she hurled at him. "Go do whatever it is you're doing with both of them. Consider this goodbye. Just get them back."

She felt his sharp pain, and knew she had hurt him. "Fine," she heard him say, and his voice was bitter. "I won't bother you anymore." His presence receded from her head, leaving it dark and silent. And Piya stared up at the ceiling of her room, wondering if she should have listened after all.

When she couldn't take it any more, she rushed to the door and opened it. She could see the three of them in the living room from the corridors. "Well, we should be leaving," Alina was saying. "Thanks for coming, Luke."

"No problem," she heard Luke say. "Stay safe. Good luck."

They were going- and she hadn't even bothered to say goodbye. Abhay was risking his life for her sister and her friend, but she had been busy wallowing in self pity.

Right. Time to correct herself. Now.

She raced down the stairs, hair flying behind her. All the people in room were staring at her, but she didn't look at them, or she'd lose her courage. She looked only at Abhay, seeing the regret in his eyes, and all but flung her arms around him.

She felt Abhay's surprise, and his relief. "You're not a liability," he muttered. "You're not weak."

She was, but she wasn't going to argue now. They didn't have time.

"I love you," she whispered. "Please be safe. I- call me. And- just be careful."

"I will," he said, cupping her jaw. "You take care of yourself, Piya. We'll be back before you know it. I'm so sorry."

"Me too," she said quietly.

"Well, now that's done," said Sid, "Can we get a move on?" Abhay and Piya broke apart, and Abhay frowned at Sid. "Is being a jerk your default setting? Wait- don't answer that. I already know."

Alina smiled, but her face was pinched. "We'll get them back," she told Piya. "You take care in the meantime."

"Yeah," Sid echoed. "And thanks for coming. You've really cured the bearhead."

Piya forced a brittle smile as she turned back to look at Abhay, who was shaking his head at his brother. "Okay, then," she said. "I guess you guys should go. Does your mom and dad-?"

"They know," said Luke from behind. "Not that they approve, but they know and understand that while Abhay and Alina have gone, Maithali might as well go after you. We're going to take care of that part."

There it was again. Involuntarily, she glanced at Abhay. "Don't even think it," he said warningly. "I can't say the same thing a dozen times.I'll send you a taped recording on the way."

Inspite of herself, she felt her mouth twitch. "Okay. Good luck."

He nodded once. Then Sid, Alina and Abhay walked out. Sid was the only one who looked back at Piya. He grimaced , then gave her a half salute as he turned back to follow them out as Piya watched them go forlornly. She could lose much more than Misha and Kabir...

"Hey, Piya," said Luke beside her. "Do you have any movies we could watch? I've recently developed an addiction to the human cinema."

She turned, aware he was doing his best to cheer her up. "Sure. Come on up."

She led him to her and Abhay's room, and took out Charlie's Angels. Luke looked skeptically at the cover. "What is this about?"

She grinned. "Ever seen a group of girls beat up the bad guys?"

He looked puzzled. "Lots of times. Natalya always wins."

Piya shook her head. "No, no. I meant in movies." Now Luke looked confused. "Not many," he said. " I don't know."

"Okay, then," said Piya. "We're watching this one."

***************************

Maithali entered the room with a flourish. Kabir registered her presence, but kept silent, except for squeezing Misha's hand, who squeezed back. And then, without any explanation whatsoever, darkness engulfed both of their senses. In seconds, they were in another house...another room. Why? It made no sense...unless they were moving to escape someone. Someone who would possibly rescue them? But how? How could he help them?

Maithali was sitting at the foot of the bed, eyes narrowed as she stared into a crystal ball. Kabir tried to see, but he couldn't. So instead, he tugged at Misha's hair. She turned to stare at him in great surprise, but a few curls had come off. Kabir tucked them in the bedclothes. He didn't dare tell her anything for fear she would overhear, but Misha seemed to understand, for her eyes widened.

At the other side of the room, Maithali's eyes widened, first in confusion, then in excited glee, and then in consternation. She looked worried...upset.

***********************

"Damn!" Abhay yelled. They'd missed Misha and Kabir somehow, with no clue of where they'd gone.. "How the hell did this happen?" He turned to Alina, who was frowning in consternation, too. "I...I don't know," she said. "We could track them again. It'll take me another hour, though..."

"It took us two hours to get here," said Sid. "It's enough time for her to move, she's not going to be waiting for us."

"Unless we use your mode of transportation," Abhay told Alina. Alina opened her mouth, but Sid beat her to it. "She's a High Witch, little brother. Not some god. She's already expending enough with the protection she's placed on my house and yours. And not to mention, tracing them. D'you want her to faint?"

Abhay's brows lifted.

"How did-"Alina began. Sid snorted. "Give me some credit. I did spend some time with one, you know. Not a true one,maybe, but I know these things."

"Right, fine," said Alina, turning pink. "I'll just-er- go and start." She hurried away, taking out her her crystal ball and muttering things under her breath.

Sid leaned against a tree and frowned as he watched her. He didn't care about those two humans. Okay, fine, so they were Piya's friends- family, so what? Alina was putting herself in danger. Damn it all, she could kill herself. Abhay could have gone alone. Alina shouldn't have put protection over their houses. He supposed that made him selfish, but hell, who was perfect?

"So that's genuine?" said a mild voice near him. He glared at his younger brother. Perfect Abhay. He was a bloody hero. How was he supposed to compete with that?

Abhay raised his eyebrow. "Well?"

"Well what?" He snapped. "Nothing," said Abhay mildly. "You know, it makes sense. Why you left Maithali...why you're suddenly on our side..."

"You know nothing," he said coldly, turning away.

"Maybe not everything," Abhay conceded. Ha! So he wasn't perfect after all, too. "But- correct me if I'm wrong-that was Alina you were looking worried about, wasn't it?"

Sid shot him the dirtiest glare he could muster. Abhay smirked. "Good choice. She'll run rings around you before you realise what she's doing. Quite fitting, I think."

Sid looked murderous. Abhay turned away, smirking, letting him stew.

"I got them," said Alina finally, after fifty-seven minutes- not that Sid was counting. "Come on."

***********************************************

"Piya?" said Luke softly, once they'd finished their movie. They were lying side by side on the floor. Piya's eyes were closed. They opened. "Yeah?"

"He'll be okay."

She smiled sheepishly. "I know. I just can't help it." Luke smiled. "So tell me. How did you get Abhay to tell you he's sorry?"

Piya snorted. "I -er- might have fought with him. Anyway, it was my fault for being so damn insecure."

"You're a brave woman," he said, shaking his head. "I don't even know what his problem is, but my guess is...he's still messed up, Piya. More messed up than that brother of his."

Piya raised an eyebrow. "More than Sid?"

"I think so," said Luke. "I...well, we spent a lot of time one winter. Hunting down Reid- you know. The vampire who turned Natalya?But he just...he cared, and yet, he didn't. You never knew when he was going to watch your back or cut you up.His brother, Sid, he's more straightforward, from what I can tell. It's either he cares or he doesn't, and with his behaviour, it's really quite clear. "

"Why were you hunting Reid?" said Piya curiously. "He hurt her," said Luke, and she noticed the faint undertone of anger in his voice. "He hurt her, and he deserved to be punished. I swore I would help her. Then we came across Abhay, and he helped us- without conditions. Without any demands, you know? And - during the fight- he protected my back more than once. But when it was over, Abhay walked away. We crossed paths several times over the years, but Abhay was always curt...he somehow knew exactly what to say to hit me the worst."

He looked apologetic. "I know what you mean," said Piya, shaking her head. "He's done that several times to me."

"And you somehow won him over regardless-?" Luke looked amazed. "Yeah, you've got serious guts."

She smiled. "What were you saying about Sid being more straightforward? He's the most puzzling person I've met- save Abhay."

"Compared to most people, I'm sure he is," said Luke neutrally. "But you can always tell with Sid if he cares or not. If he cares, he'll go on life threatening missions like the one he just took on - because of you. And Alina. But he doesn't really care about Abhay, not so much. He's got a very clear behaviour pattern. Abhay, on the other hand...pretty much keeps you guessing if he cares or not."

It made no sense to Piya, but she kept her mouth shut. For a while there was silence, then she said, "Let's play noughts and crosses. It's been ages since I played that."

"Sure," Luke answered, and they spent the rest of the night filling up sheet after sheet of paper. Luke was very good at it : he trapped Piya neatly several times. In the end, however, they had a tie.

As it was dawn, Luke left Piya so she could sleep. Not that she felt sleepy; not with the people she cared most about in danger of losing their lives.

************************************************

They'd gone to about five houses by now. After the first time, they kept finding clues that Misha and Kabir had been there : a lock of Misha's hair. Nails. Some blood. It had made tracking them much faster, but Maithali had still eluded them.

"It's almost as if she's watching us," Abhay growled in frustration, as Alina took the clue from him -this time, a shoelace. "And we've only got till tomorrow night. How in hell are we going to do this?"

"Alina!" said Sid sharply. "What is it?"

But Alina had gone very still, staring at Abhay. Then she closed her eyes, a million miles away.

"Of course," she muttered. "Of course."

************************************************

Disha Gupta was looking through the sheafs of assignments she'd just received when the bell rang. Her eyebrows rose as she got up and opened the door. "Luke," she said with some resignation. "What are you doing here?"

"Disha," he breathed. "May I come in?"

Her eyebrows creased in a frown before she stood back to let him pass, all the while scanning the road and the woods behind him. Then she closed the door and faced him. "What brings you here so early in the morning, Luke? Were you passing through again?"

"Yeah- sort of," he said, ill at ease. She took pity on him. "Sit down," she said, gesturing to the sofa. "Tea?Coffee?"

"Nothing, thanks," he said, as she sat down opposite him. "How are you?"

Dishu shrugged. "Good."

"Really?"said Luke. "So why do you have dark circles under your eyes?"

She laughed. "Occupational hazard of being a teacher. Don't worry. I'm fine."

"Fine," echoed Luke. "If you say so." "I do say so," said Disha firmly, lifting the half-empty cup of coffee to her lips. There was an awkward silence. "Have you had your breakfast?" he asked, lightly. She shook her head. "Not yet. I was about to go fix it in a while. Why?Do you want some?"

"No," he said. "I was wondering if I could take you out for breakfast."

Disha stilled. "It's okay if you don't want to," Luke found himself saying. "I was just hoping maybe I could take you to breakfast and in return you could help me pick out a book. I always go to the store, but I have never any idea what to buy."

Disha put the coffee cup down, her face carefully blank. Luke watched her as she slowly arranged the sheaf of papers into order. Then, finally, she looked at him. "Could you spare me twenty minutes to get ready?"

Luke blinked. "You- you're agreeing?" he said in shock. "I- I thought-"

"Against my better judgement, yes," said Disha, the corner of her mouth lifting in a half smile as she went to her room.

Left to his own devices, Luke looked around the room. It was sparsely decorated. Some paintings, a clock. And a few photographs. He gazed at the nearest photograph. Alina and Disha sat on a sofa, holding each other, their faces turned to the camera, bright smiles on their faces. Another showed Disha with Abhay and Piya on the night of her birthday. She was standing in the middle, arms around both of them. Abhay had the oddest expression, though. He was looking to his right. Piya was smiling, but she, too, had a strange expression on her face. As he studied it, he realised it was worry. Or fear. What had she been thinking?

One showed Alina laughing, her head thrown back in an uncharacteristic expression of joy and innocence. And the last one made him stop in his tracks and stand before it. Disha was sitting on the sofa, wearing a long silver gown.Her mouth was smiling at the phoographer,whoever it was, her eyes happy, yet not. The picture summed her up perfectly : Disha could be with people, yet there was something about her that she kept separate from everyone. As though she knew something you didn't, but were about to find out. And her eyes, as piercing as ever, seemed to bore into him even now, out of a two dimensional photograph.

So why didn't she understand the depth of his feelings for her? Unless...unless she did. And didn't return them.

"Luke?" He whirled around. He'd not noticed her standing behind him, looking stunning in a simple long shirt and jeans. Now, she was looking at him, her eyes amused. "Did I disturb you?I did give you five minutes, but I don't really deserve any more." She smiled teasingly.

"Oh, you did," he said grinning. "At least an hour. But I forgive you. Let's go."

Luke watched Disha eat, licking chocolate off her fingers as she finished her croissant. He'd ordered a latte for himself, and hoped she wouldn't ask too many questions.

"Don't you want to eat?" She asked him. He shook his head. "I ate already."

Disha regarded him. "I see," she said finally. "You just wanted to take me out."

"You mean you didn't know?" said Luke, lifting an eyebrow. She let out a burst of surprised laughter, and something warmed over in her eyes, as well as his heart.

The air around them shifted and crackled with a sudden intensity. Disha stared at him, something in her cracking and bursting. She couldn't move. In a movement that seemed deliberately slow, Luke reached out a hand and swiped his finger across her chin, and she shivered.

"Chocolate," he said, and the spell was broken. Disha's cheeks pinked over, and she hurriedly rose. "We should get going," she said. To her relief, Luke didn't push her or press her to answer why.

She selected almost half a dozen books for Luke, half in a daze. What was happening to her? How had he done it to her?

She was silent as he walked her home. Luke did not try to hold her hand. Not that she wanted him to. Of course not.

They reached her house. She turned to bid him good bye, but somehow, the words wouldn't come out of her mouth. "Luke-" "Disha?" said Luke quietly. "I think I'd like to kiss you. If you're not unwilling."

She gaped at him. Dimly, she realised she ought to say no, she was not willing, but she couldn't say the words.

His lips brushed hers once, twice, three times. It wasn't some passionate, romantic-novel, Hollywood-scene kiss- quite the opposite, in fact. But what scared her was the way she found herself reacting to it. To him.

No. This would have to stop. She would have to hurt him enough to make him go away.. "I'm sorry, Luke," she schooled her face, "That shouldn't have happened."

He stayed still. "Why not?"

"Because I don't have any feeling for you. I cannot return your feelings for me."

Anger sparked in his gaze and he took a step closer. " I call it bullshit. I saw it in your eyes, I know you feel attracted to me, if nothing else-"

"You don't know anything about me!" She snarled, desperate. "What do you know about love? Loss? How would you know what it felt? You're as mature as a teenager. You don't know anything."

He flinched, and her heart turned over. "You're right," he said quietly. "What would I know? Seeing your best friend bleed to his death because of a mistake you made- that won't count, will it? What do I know about love, loss, a broken heart? I served in the army, Disha. I watched my best friend die because I couldn't get help for him. Because I gave our position away. And you know what? I know a damn sight more than you'd think about losing someone you'd loved. And thanks to you, I know what it's like to have a broken heart, too. Thanks, Disha. I won't bother you again."

He tipped her an imaginary salute and stalked away. Disha walked into her house, and closed the door. Her chest screamed with pain, but Dishu did not cry , not even as she glanced at the photograph on her bedside table.

****************************************************

It turned out that Alina's exclamation had referred to the possibility that Maithali might have been in Dehradun the whole time. They retraced their steps to the forest, but there was no one there.

"This is stupid," said Sid. "We're going on a mission we have no clue of!To save a couple of humans?"

Abhay turned to glower at him. "We never forced you to come! You knew what you were getting into."

Sid snorted. "You're so adorably boring. And while it's been fun, playing hide and seek, I'm bloody tired of this. Why don't you just send Piya over to her?"

"Sid," said Alina, "What's wrong with you?"

"There's nothing wrong with me," Sid snorted. "It's Abhay you should be thinking about. God, who are these people! They're just Piya's human friends! What, are you scared she'll leave you if you don't get them back?" he taunted Abhay.

Abhay's jaw clenched. Alina's eyes swivelled from him to Sid.

"Stop now, Sid," he said menacingly. "I won't be responsible for my actions if you keep pushing me."

Sid snorted. "What actions? That chick's turned you into a girl. Look at you!" He laughed. "We used to have so many fights. Now you're afraid to fight with me."

Maithali's eyes widened with glee as she watched them through the crystal ball. She knew that Sid would come back to her. Sid wasn't like them. So she wasn't getting Piya yet. Even better- she would capture Abhay, and torture him till Piya came. She would force her to watch him die.

On the bed, Misha and Kabir looked at each other with horror. Anything that had Maithali so excited could not be good.

Maithali watched keenly as Abhay bristled with anger, squaring up to Sid. Alina screamed as Sid threw the first punch, sending Abhay flying. He landed on his feet behind Sid and attacked, throwing him off balance.

And then fight started in earnest as they fought viciously. Sid was winning, Maithali could see it. Abhay was losing...

And then Sid lifted the stake at sliced it through the air, towards Abhay, who lay sprawled on the ground. Before she could see Sid stake Abhay, however, the images in her crystal ball dissolved into nothing, and all she was was darkness.

What had happened? Maithali was seldom taken by surprise. Had that witch saved Abhay somehow? She began to cast spells to break through the block, but somehow they wouldn't work at all this time. What was going on?

************************

In the evening, when Piya had woken up, she spoke to her mother. Madhu Dobriyal was worried, even with the explanation they'd given her that Misha had gone on a road trip. "Piya, Misha's phone isn't working," she said in a hushed voice, and Piya almost wanted to be sick. "And Kabir's phone is switched off. I don't understand-"

"Mom,you know how hiking trips are," said Piya quickly, striving to keep her voice casual. "They probably went out of the network coverage. I'm sure they'll call. I talked to them in the afternoon."

"All right," said Madhu, still sounding doubtful, but clearly placated. "If you reach her, tell her to call me, will you?"

"Of course."

Piya ended the call and turned over the phone in her hand. Sick worry engulfed her. She hadn't had any contact with Abhay, either through phone or through the mind link...though the latter was because Abhay was far from her and they hadn't completed the three bites.

But every instinct screamed at her now that something had gone wrong. Somehow, she would have to know...

She dialled Abhay's number. It rang and rang. No answer. Damn it, she could not panic now. She scrolled to Alina's number. Out of network, said the operator's voice. Okay, time for desperate measures. She dialled Sid's number.

"Pick up, please pick up," she chanted. "Piya? What is it?" said Sid's voice by way of greeting as he answered the phone. She could have cried with relief. "Siddharth," she said instead. "Where's Abhay?"

"Get right to the point, don't you?" Sid snorted. "He's here. Hold on.."

A pause, and then Abhay's voice. "Piya. Are you all right?"

"F...fine," she stammered. "How are you?"

There was a pause. "I'm okay," said Abhay finally. "Listen, I'll talk to you later."

Piya stared at the phone in her hands as the call cut. She'd just talked to Abhay. So why was she feeling worried? Because she knew she'd been taken in by impersonations twice. Dear God, what if it hadn't been Abhay at all? What if-

"Piya?" Luke walked into the room. She stood. "Hi. Erm, Luke, I wanted to ask you if we could-"

"We can't leave the house," he reminded her. "Or I can, but you can't. Do you want me to go hunting for them or-?"

"No!" Oh God, she was going crazy. Abhay was going to be fine. He'd flip a switch if he came to know that she'd sent Luke away. Besides, she was going to need a backup just in case...just in case she had to go.

"Okay,then," said Luke. "Do you play chess? Humans do still play that, right?"

"Oh, yeah," said Piya mechanically. "I mean, people do play chess, but I'm really not in the mood right now. Sorry."

"Okay, sure," said Luke. "Let's talk, then. Why don't you tell me all about how you and Abhay met."

She looked up at him in disbelief, and saw an odd determination in his eyes. She recognized his expression as something she often wore.

A smile tugged at her lips without reason. "All right then," she found herself saying

"Okay, enough!" Alina's sharp voice cut through the air, instantly making the two vampires freeze. Then Sid moved away from Abhay and dropped the stake to the ground. Abhay got to his feet, and brushed off the dirt from his shirt. "You know, Alina, you might want to cut it a little less fine next time," he said. "One second more and I would've been staked in a staged fight. Maybe we could do a little role reversal next time?" Sid looked at him. There was a strange expression on his face. "I wouldn't have staked you." Abhay snorted. "Yeah, and Piya's overjoyed at being left alone in that house. In a word-like hell." "That's two words," retorted Sid at once. "Don't know how to count now, little brother?" "Yeah, we get the memo, you two hate each other," Alina butted in. "Now can we please focus on the plan? It's annoying talking to you two in your heads." "Seconded," Abhay muttered. "Extremely annoying." "How are you going to find out where they are, anyway?" demanded Sid. "You expended a lot of energy setting up that block. I don't think-" "You don't have to," she snapped. "I have my ways and means. Are you in or not?"

He shrugged. "Guess I am."

***************************************************

Haseena stood near the window, thinking. She was worried. Piya hadn't made too many protests after the three of them had left, which should have relieved her, but Piya had taken it quite gracefully. She hoped Piya wouldn't give Abhay too hard of a time when they returned.

Abhay. Her son. She had loved Sid more, but Abhay had made her proud. He was the one she worried about, the one she wanted safe and happy. Because Abhay, more than anyone else, deserved it. Sometimes, she wished Chand had turned Sid, too, instead of her. Then maybe he'd have more self control. Nobility. Not reckless and uncontrolled like her.

"That's not true," said a quiet voice next to her. She looked up at Chand, who was standing next to her. "Both of the boys had their own choices.They made them."

"I just worry," Haseena murmured. "I hope Piya won't be too angry at him." Chand said nothing.

********************

Maithali paced the forest floor, muttering incantations to lift the block over her. But whoever had put it had done a surprisingly good job. She glared malevolently at the now almost-unconscious pair of humans. Everything was going wrong. She'd been so sure that Piya was going to come to save them. And yet she hadn't. She'd wanted to kill something till Sid turned on Abhay , which had resurrected her mood surprisingly fast.

Sid...oh, why had he not told her?He should have told her. They would have to talk about it.

She went very still as she sensed the scent of a vampire near her. The scent of a familiar vampire...

"Evening, Princess," said a quiet voice from behind her. She turned to see Sid leaning against a tree. "How are you doing?"

Maithali rushed to him. "Siddharth!" she said in delight. "Is Abhay dead? Did you kill him?"

Sid smiled wickedly. "Of course."

The smile brightened on her face. "I'm so pleased. I should have known you'd never side with them." Her smile dimmed. "Why didn't you tell me about your plans?"

"Which ones?" inquired Sid lazily, taking her hand and kissing her knuckles. She pulled her hand away. "The ones where you pretend to betray me, then betray them! I thought..." A look of hurt came over her face. "I thought you didn't love me anymore."

Sid smiled. "Really?"

"Yes," she said. "Siddharth- the witch who was with you-"

Sid snorted. "Well, I killed Abhay, of course," he said derisively. "Obviously, her plans had failed. I let her go on the condition that she never bother us again."

Maithali scowled. "I don't see why you didn't kill her."

Sid shrugged. "She told me where you were," he said. "I guess I repaid her. She won't be coming after us- but I never said you couldn't go after her." He smiled.

"Damn, I'm starting to believe him," said Abhay in his head as they finally broke through Maithali's spell barrier surrounding Kabir and Misha. Both Abhay and Alina were invisible.

Abhay fought off the curse word as he stared in anger and horror at Kabir and Misha, lying almost comatose on the ground.

"Right," said Alina in his head. "You grab Kabir, I'll grab Misha and then we can go."

Alina transported the four of them into a highway in Dalhousie, where a car was waiting for them. Abhay and Alina helped arrange Misha and Kabir in the backseat of the car. Misha gave an unintelligible moan, and his blood thrummed with anger.

"Well, I guess, I should be going," said Alina. "Rescue your brother."

"You sure you don't want help?" said Abhay doubtfully. Alina smiled. "I will have help. Natalya-"

"Of course. I know. Stay safe."

Alina nodded, an enigmatic smile on her face- whether sad or happy, he didn't know.

He pressed a hand to Kabir's forehead. There was no fever, but Misha was certainly running one, which began to go down at his touch.

He pulled out a water bottle from the crate and managed to make Kabir take a few gulps. Soon enough, his eyes fluttered open. "Misha-"

"She's fine," said Abhay. "Or she will be, soon. Want to eat?" Kabir's eyes widened in recognition. Abhay pulled out a packaged sandwich, mentally making a note to promote Sanjay. He'd done everything Abhay'd asked him to in a matter of hours. "Here," he said, holding it out to Kabir, who had put his arm Misha protectively, making her take a few sips of water. Misha stirred.

"Piya-" "She's fine," he answered. Kabir found his voice. "How did you find us?"

Abhay shrugged. "A friend helped us." "Thanks, Abhay," Misha's voice was faint. "I'm really glad Piya chose you to fall in love with."

Abhay glanced at Kabir. "We might be here for a few minutes. Do you think you're-"

"We'll be fine," said Kabir. "He'd half expected Abhay to be fanging out when he next saw him. But the guy didn't seem to be acting that different.

"Why can't we go now?" Misha said, biting into a sandwich.

"Because we're waiting for two people," Abhay said shortly. "We'll have to take them."

Misha nodded. "I guess so- eww!" she said. "Who puts lettuce in a sandwich? I want a burger. And a beer. Please."

Abhay rolled his eyes. "Not yet. Now, you make do with the sandwiches. We'll reach you guys home in a few hours."

She nodded, slumping against Kabir, who was staring at him as though he'd never seen Abhay before. He raised an eyebrow in question. Kabir opened his mouth to say something, but thought better of it.

"Thanks," he said finally.

"No problem," said Abhay automatically.

**********************

Piya was sitting alone in her room, watching hour after hour of sleep inducing soap operas. She wasn't even paying attention to what was going on, instead taking inventory. Seven chairs in the room...a chandelier...What was wrong with Luke? He'd been on edge for a while. They weren't bosom buddies yet, so she'd held her tongue.

The heroine was being forcibly dragged out of the house by her husband, while a sad song played in the background. Abhay would be proud of her for not interfering...

Wow, was that the thirsty-second tear which fell down the heroine's cheek in slow motion? She briefly wondered why the girl didn't wipe her tears away. Someone should give her a hanky.

Damn it, was Abhay all right? Had he got to Misha and Kabir? What if he hadn't? Why wouldn't he call her?

A cacophony of music began to blare, and irritated, she muted the television. That's when she realised her phone was ringing. She bounded to it, her heart skipping when she saw Abhay's name.

"Piya?" said Abhay, when she answered. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine," she said impatiently. "Where are you? Is everyone okay? Have you seen Misha?"

"I'm in Dalhousie," Abhay answered. "Misha's fine- a little exhausted, but overall, okay. Kabir, too. I thought you might like to talk-"

She sank down on the floor, clutching the phone in relief. For several seconds, she couldn't speak. "Piya? Piya? Are you there?"

"Yeah," she answered, keeping her voice low. "Yes- I want to talk to her."

"Hi, Piya," said Misha. She sounded exhausted, a far cry from her usual exuberance. "Thanks for sending your vamp over. He's the best. But just tell him to check up on his food tastes, you know? I hate sandwiches."

Piya was laughing and crying, all at once as she listened to Misha's voice. "I love you," she said at last. "God, Mish, I'm so sorry-"

"Don't be," said Misha. "It's over. We're coming back, sis. It's over."

When Piya hung up a few minutes later, she was grinning from ear to ear.

************************

Sid caught Maithali's arm as she moved closer. "Not just yet, Maithali," he said coolly. "There are a few things I'd like to tell you."

Maithali laughed. "What is it?"

"Why don't you sit down," he suggested. "It might be a while."

Some of the mirth in her face was replaced by confusion as she sat. "Yes?"

Sid smiled. "Do you remember the day I turned you, Maithali?"

"Vividly. How could I not?" She tossed back, smiling.

"Yes. Maithali, do you remember Piyali?"

Maithali made a dismissive motion. "My companion?" Sid nodded. "She used to be my best friend, you know. And there was something she had said to me once..."

Maithali quirked her head. "And what that?"

"She told me that you cannot force someone to love you. And she was right."

Maithali was silent. Then she said, "But what does this have to do with us?"

"Oh, I imagine it has everything to do with us," Sid said drily, and then paused as Alina's voice echoed in his head. "Keep her distracted. I'm right here. Give me five minutes."

"Okay," he sent back, and she was gone. He turned his attention back to Maithali. "Maithali, you didn't love me, did you? Not once in those two centuries. It was always Abhayendra, wasn't it? Never me."

Her face registered shock...guilt...horror. "That's- no, Sid. I love you. I don't love him. I swear I don't."

"You didn't," said Sid very quietly. "Why else did you come to him? Why did you freeze him? Why did you bring me back from the dead? Because you wanted to get back at him."

"No- it wasn't like that-" Maithali rose to her feet.

"Wasn't it?" said Sid conversationally. "Regardless of what you feel now, be honest : you loved my brother, and my brother alone."

There was a pause, and Maithali bowed her head. "I am sorry," she said in a low voice. "It - it was foolish of me."

In another lifetime, Sid thought wryly, he would have felt sorry for her.

"So you admit it?" he asked quietly.

She looked up at him, her expression contrite. "Yes. Yes- I loved him. But, Sid, please understand- I love you. I love everything that you are. I didn't know how it happened, but-"

"Shhh..." said Sid , cutting her off. "So...you loved my brother. You used my feelings to get back at him. Get him back. I died as a result, but unfortunately, your plan failed."

She opened her mouth to interrupt him, but Sid kept talking. "So, when Piya Dobriyal broke your hold over my brother, you brought me back from the dead. I thought you loved me even then, you know? Fool that I was. But no...it was Abhayendra. Always him. And then we both realised we'd become human. Do you know, I still remember the contempt on your face," he said conversationally, as if they were talking about the weather.

Maithali looked stricken, at a loss for words.

"So that's when I realised she had been right all alon. Piyali, you know? Because you cannot control love. And my love for you...had gone."

She was standing still.

"So I decided," said Sid lightly, "That I would do the same to you."

Alina's voice came in his head. "It's done."

"So that's what I set out to do," continued Sid. "To make you fall in love with me, as I once loved you. And then, to see your face the day you realised...it was never you."

He smiled now. "I don't love you, Maithali. I hate you. No, I don't care. All I wanted was to see your face when you got backstabbed by the person you loved."

"Then..." Maithali's voice was little more than a whisper.

"So I played you!" He yelled, laughing. "I played you. I played all of you. I was never on your side. All those times I suggested how to kill Piya? I did them knowing Abhay would be able to save her. When you sent Kerath to bite her, and me to distract my brother...I warned him!" He laughed. "And no...he's not dead. Another of my lies, just like you lied to me then. I didn't kill him. I just made you think that."

"No..." She was shaking her head. And then he saw...tears falling from her eyes. Solidying into ice.

"So yes. I betrayed you twice. Just like you did."

Maithali began to move towards him, but she was stopped. An invisible barrier of air surrounded her. For the first time, she felt the stirring of cloying panic.

"I won't kill you, " he informed her. "You didn't kill me. Good bye, Maithali."

Panic was replaced by fury. A slow, burning rage as she lifted her gaze to him. "What have you done?"

Sid shrugged. "I didn't do that.Someone else did. Damn helpful, isn't it? Oh- and the humans are gone. Don't bother looking for them."

Maithali glared at him in impotent fury as she began to mutter a spell to come out. It wouldn't work. She knew what this was. Called a Setlark, it was a most effective means of imprisonment. A person could be kept inside for days on end and only a High Witch could have cast that spell. A very accomplished one. She screamed, but it accomplished nothing. Sid merely turned back to give her a half wave, his eyes glittering.

And then he began to fade into thin air. That's when she saw the silhouette of another person with him.

So Sid had one really powerful High Witch on his side. She attempted escape again, but it was futile. Completely futile. What was going on? Who was more powerful than her? If a High Witch had joined forces with them...they could easily take on her, and they had. she'd underestimated them..she'd thought a High Witch wouldn't get directly invovled. She would have to find allies now...

But first, she had to figure out how to get out.

********************************

Abhay was just getting impatient when he saw them appear out of thin air, holding hands. As soon as they materialised, Alina jerked away from his brother and almost ran to him and the car.

"She's trapped for a few hours," said Alina. "We have to move." Abhay nodded. "I'll drive. Listen- check up on Misha. At the back."

She nodded, opening the door and sliding into the backseat, giving a hesitant smile as Kabir and Misha's eyes widened. At the same time, Sid slid in the passenger seat next to Abhay, his face taut.

Without asking any questions, Abhay slid into the driving seat and pressed the accelerator. In a few hours, they would be back.

There was silence in the car except for Alina murmuring things to Misha. Abhay and Sid avoided each other's gaze, for reasons only they knew and refused to acknowledge.

"You ever felt like killing her?" Sid asked abruptly, after a few hours of silence. They had entered Uttarakhand. Abhay shrugged. "Several times, yes. I had the chance but I didn't, and I will always regret it."

"Yeah," said Sid. "Welcome to the club, bro."

Abhay shrugged.

"So why did you help us?" asked Misha. "I know you tried to kill Piya. Why the nice act?"

Sid looked extremely uncomfortable. Abhay smirked as he glanced at Misha in the mirror. She was perfectly normal now, and it was Alina who was slumped against the window now with her eyes closed.

"Oh, it's a long story, Misha," said Abhay. "The thing about love is, it makes you do crazy things."

Sid shot him a glare full of venom Misha looked confused.

"What...?"

"Shut up," said Sid roughly. "Not another word."

Misha rolled her eyes, but held her tongue.

Abhay himself refrained from saying much more. For someone who loved to needle people, Sid sure didn't like it when the tables turned on him.

********************

When Piya went to tell Luke that they were coming back, she found him sitting alone in his room, staring off into space, looking the picture of abject misery.

"Hey," he said as soon as he saw her, and all traces of the sadness she'd glimpsed were gone in an instant, under that smile. She found herself wondering if she'd imagined it all. "What's up? You seem happy."

"I am," she told him. "I talked to Abhay a while ago. They're on their way."

Luke smiled, but this time, it looked slightly forced. "That's great. I guess I should be packing my bags, then. See you, Piya."

Piya's eyebrows furrowed. "What's wrong, Lucas?"

"Nothing. Why should there be? I'm happy for your sister and her friend. It's great news."

He strode up to the window, turning his back to her. Piya went after him. "Tell me what's wrong," she demanded. "You've been off for a long time. I was going to be nice and pretend I didn't notice, but- " She shrugged. "Well?"

Luke turned to her, his lips twitching upwards. "Yes... I can see why you'd be good for Abhay. Did you try this on him?"

Piya snorted. "No. I had to do a lot more. But then, I'm not, you know, crazy-attracted-in-love with you- don't take it personally," she added, in case she'd offended him.

"It would be gross if you did," he agreed, grinning. "You know, Piya...you're a great person to be friends with. I'm going to miss you when I'm gone."

She tilted her head, studying him. "I see," she said at last. "Who else?"

"There's nobody else who'll miss me," said Luke, shrugging. "So I'll only miss you."

"Oh..." Piya's eyes gleamed, and she leaned closer. "Lukey's fallen in loveee!"

He looked horrified. "Please don't call me that."

"So you have fallen in love?" She persisted.

"Yes. No. I don't know," he said, finally. "It hurts."

Piya's eyes reflected compassion. "Love tends to hurt, yes. I know that well."

He felt a newfound respect for her, as he studied her. "He broke your heart, too, didn't her?"

"Too many times," she said, shaking her head. "To be fair, I hurt him too. So what's her name?"

"What?"

She fixed him with a blank look. "You know. Her name. The woman you're in love with." A sudden thought struck her. "Unless it's a guy?"

He laughed. "No. It's a woman. Her name is Disha."

Piya's eyebrows furrowed. Where had she heard that name?

"She's a teacher," he elaborated. "And she'd-"

Understanding dawned. "You're in love with Miss Gupta!"

"I-you know her?" He said in surprise.

"Of course I do!" said Piya, still shocked. "She was the librarian, then she became our teacher. Wow, so you fell for her? That's...unexpected. Although, it isn't really... I mean, you're both really kind, and nice..."

Luke was hanging on to her every word. "Tell me more."

"You were dancing with her at her birthday, weren't you?" said Piya, remembering.

"I didn't even think about that. She invited you?"

Luke shook his head. "Actually, Alina did. Disha isn't...well, she's not interested." His tone was bland, but she had seen the flash of real pain in his eyes.

"Oh, Luke," said Piya, feeling terribly sorry for him. "Are you sure?"

There was a pause. "I don't know what to think anymore," he said finally. "There were moments...when I was with her, that felt as if...as if we shared a connection. And then...then it was gone, and she doesn't realise at all...she acts as though it's just a very casual thing, my feelings for her..."

He stopped. "Sorry," he said. "I didn't- forget it. I've made peace with it."

"So...you're just going to give up?" said Piya. "Just like that?"

Luke smiled bitterly. "Not giving up has made her hate me. I don't know if I want her to hate me more. It'll only reaffirm her belief that I'm immature."

"Okayyy..." Piya didn't look convinced. "If you say so. But personally, maybe you should keep in touch with her. Some people really need to be treated that way, or they start thinking that you don't care."

"Yes, well..." Luke didn't want to discuss the matter further.

To his relief, Piya changed the subject, asking him to come and look at her work.

*********************************************

When they entered Dehradun,dusk had fallen and Abhay felt Piya's presence at the fringes of his mind. He closed his eyes for a second, and caught a flash of her, talking to Luke. A flash of pure irritation socked him in the gut and he pushed it away, trying to keep his face completely neutral. It was stupid, irrational, completely insane. He'd known they would become good friends. So why did it bother him? He deserved it. She deserved it. He'd cut her off from her family and now he was grousing over her talking to someone else. Better Luke than Sid , anyway. Luke, he knew wasn't complex. He was surprisingly innocent, for a vampire. Probably because Natalya never let him interact with too many people.

Soon enough, they were reaching the driveway of the Raichand house.

Piya smelt them the second they entered the house, and the sudden urge to bite Misha rushed through her. It was bizarre,and scary, because nothing like that had happened when she'd married Abhay.Misha hugged her, and she fought the urge to taste her blood.

What was wrong with her? This was her sister, who'd gone through hell. And here she was having horrible urges.

She almost cried in relief when Misha was gently prised away from her. Lifting her gaze, she felt another wave of shame when she caught Abhay's understanding gaze. Of course he'd know. Abhay shook his head, wordlessly. They stared at each other for a minute, then Abhay moved closer and pulled her to him , holding her in a loose hug. "Don't," she heard him murmur. "What you're thinking... stop it. Get me?"

She stepped away as his reassurance made her warm. "Thanks," she said shyly.

"Well, hello," said Misha. "Guys? You're married now. Stop creeping me out with those staring contests. Abhay, I'm sorry, but I need a moment with my sister. Kabir, is that okay?"

Kabir looked hesitant. "Don't worry," he said. "We won't bite. Okay, Misha."

Piya said nothing. Part of her was really, really happy. she hadn't chatted with her best friend for ages. But another part was telling her it was a bad, bad idea. Well, the thirst didn't seem bad now. Maybe if she spent time with Misha, it would leave.

She smiled. "Sure. Come up to my room."

Piya led the way, not noticing Alina's calculating smile.

Abhay's phone vibrated, and he glanced at the message from Luke. "Congratulations. See you around, mate."

Misha was very impressed by the room, and more so the balcony, where Piya took her, so she could clear her head, but refrained from commenting on the size and material of the bed.

Once alone, Piya launched into speech.

"Misha, are you okay? Did she hurt you? God, Misha, I wanted to come so bad, but they wouldn't let me- Misha, I'm so-"

Misha cut her off by pressing her hand to Piya's mouth. "Whoa whoa whoa. I'm fine, okay? And it's good that you didn't go. Piya, that vamp is a psycho! If you'd heard the plans she was making-" Misha broke off, looking sick. "Piya, thank God you didn't go. That woman is beyond crazy!"

She leaned against the side of the verandah. "Ouch."

"What happened?" said Piya in horror. But Misha didn't have to reply. One of the vines draping over the railing had had thorns. It had scraped Misha's wrist. A red line had formed over the skin.

"Oh, shit, man," muttered Misha. Then she looked up at Piya and gasped in horror. Her sister's dark brown eyes were glowing an unnatural, iridiscent blue, and her canines had elongated to something Misha could only describe as fangs.

Misha watched, frozen in a kind of fascinated horror, as she stared back at the monsterized version of her sister. Her stomach turned as she thought how much she looked like Maithali then.

"P-Piya?" She said hesitantly. "It's me. You wouldn't-"

And then she saw it. Piya's eyes, her glowing blue eyes, widened. Her hands fisted into fists and she took a step back from Misha. "Get out," she bit out at Misha.

The tone was harsh, but Misha saw the pain that lanced through her sister's face. Piya was still her sister. She was warning her, trying not to hurt her.

She reached out a hand. "Piya, I-"

A growl emanated from Piya. "I told you to go!"

And then she lunged for Misha.

Misha's eyes snapped closed, but there was no pain, nothing. After several seconds, she opened her eyes.

Piya was being pinned to the side wall by Abhay, whose back was to her. They were struggling silently, but even Misha could tell Abhay was having no difficulty in keeping her restrained.

Piya snarled at him viciously. "Let me go!" He pinned her wrists above her head, and held on. "No." She struggled- yes, for a newborn, Abhay admitted she was quite strong- but she had very little on him. He stripped aside her defenses and entered her mind, fighting to make her register what was going on. Her thoughts were fuzzy with bloodlust, hazing over.

Damn. He should have come before.

She screamed now, trying to fight free, both physically and mentally, but he wouldn't allow it.

He glanced back at Misha, who was as white as a sheet. Her face registered horror.

"Misha," he said calmly. "Go to our bedroom, will you?I'll be with you in a while. Be calm, please."

Surprisingly, Misha did not argue. She simply turned and left.

Piya howled in rage and fury as she saw her prey leaving. Somehow his hold on her relaxed, and since he was the one who had deprived her of her meal, she sank her elongated teeth into his neck.

The first thought that registered was that it was the wrong blood. But even so, she could not stop. Memory after memory hit her.

A girl and a boy. Arguing outside a classroom. Smiling at each other. Dancing in a hall. Fighting viciously, with words meant to inflict pain. Kissing.

Something inside her shifted in recognition. My soulmate.

Abhay.

And then she felt his fangs piercing her neck. Some other memories were hitting her now. They were hers. Two girls. Laughing, talking. Teasing. The memories were forcefully brought to the front of her mind's eye, forcing her to relive them.

One, she knew now, was herself.The other...the other was Misha. Her sister. Her best friend.

The one she'd wanted to kill.

And just like that, the thirst subsided. She went stiff, a different kind of pain lancing her chest.

Abhay lifted his head as Piya lifted hers, going slack.

She was staring at him in wide eyed horror, the realization of what she had almost done- what she'd fought him for, to do- sinking in.

A dry sob. "No."

It was a plea for him. To twist the truth.Make it better.

But he didn't. "Yes," he said clearly. "I'm sorry."

Piya pushed away and turned her back on him. Her hands gripped the railing, stark white against black metal.

"I know how this feels," he said, keeping his voice low. "I went through it, quite a few times with you. The only difference is that you're too young. You're not used to it."

He gripped her shoulders and turned her around to face him. She refused to meet his gaze, so he tilted her chin, forcing her to look him in the eye. "Trust me, Piya," he said softly. "For a second, I actually thought you might master yourself. It was my fault. It was not yours, it was never yours. I'm the one who changed you. I should have-"

He broke off. Piya blinked. "I didn't want to feel like this," she said. His gut ached at her, sounding so lost. "Even during the wedding- not even once-"

"Reina put damping spells on you," he said, hating himself, but he vowed he would not keep this from her. "I didn't know for sure until later. And...there were no bleeding guests. Also, Piya, the thirst is more...violent when you're attached to a human. I...I know I didn't tell you before, but-"

Piya blinked, but the tears did not leave her eyes. It was Abhay who brushed them off with his thumb. "She hates me."

Abhay shook his head. "You can't know that."

"She does. Anyone would. God, I am a monster."

"More shame to me, " Abhay muttered to himself, missing the stricken look Piya flashed him at his words.

"Look," said Abhay,"Wait here. I'll talk to Misha, all right? I'm sure she won't hate you. I know it."

He brushed a kiss over her forehead and left her on the balcony, alone with her thoughts.

******************

Misha sat on the bed, her head reeling. She knew she was in shock. Part of her was horrified that her sister had attacked her. The other part of her felt terribly sorry for Piya, remembering her obvious struggle.

"Misha." Abhay's voice made her whip her head around to look at him. His face was stony, but his hair was slightly ruffled, giving him- Misha had to admit- a handsome, rakish look. There was a smear of blood on his chin, but Misha didn't want to think about it.

"Don't hate her."

She blinked twice as she realised who he was talking about. "Oh."

"It's not her fault," said Abhay, coming to sit on a chair at a distance from her, so she wouldn't be too uncomfortable. "She's very young in vampire terms. She's not used to dealing with thirst."

"I know," said Misha in a small voice. "She tried to warn me. I saw that, but..." She blinked, now to make the burning in her eyes go away. "It's like something's broken, between us...it won't be the same again. Piya won't be the same again, and I- I don't even know whose fault is it."

Abhay got up, took out a box, and offered her a band-aid to put over the cut. "I'm sorry," he said. "I thought Piya might...stop. It was foolish. No one in her position could have. I doubt even Dad could."

She shrugged, helplessly. "How will I even be around her? Everything is just so messed up!"

And Piya chose that moment to walk into the room.

"You know, Misha," she said quietly,"You're quite right. Maybe you should go home with Kabir. I'm sure Abhay or someone could drop you."

Misha stood up. "What's wrong with you?"

"Everything, apparently," Piya replied, her voice losing the coolness she had managed to inject into it. "I think you should leave."

"Damn, Piya, I didn't mean it like that-" Misha started to say.

"I don't care!" snapped Piya. "Just leave! It's my fault, okay? I get it! Just go!"

Abhay shook his head, resisting the temptation to bury it in his hands.

"Yes well, maybe you should show a bit of emotion!" Misha snapped back. "You're not supposed to let me go! You're supposed to tell me we'll work this out!"

"How the hell am I going to do it?" Piya raged. "How do we work this out? The psychotic bitch who wants to kill me is after your life. God, I came within an inch of killing you! You think I would have lived with that? My sister's blood on my hands?"

"I don't care!" Misha yelled right back. "Like you don't care about Abhay! You think I'm not scared? I'm bloody darn terrified! But I need you to not give up on me! Us!"

Then her lip began to tremble. "You're my best friend, Piya," she sniffled. "My best friend. Don't cut me out,please."

Neither of them were very sure who moved first, but then- in a matter of seconds- the two girls went from a raging fight to sobbing in each other's arms. (Abhay would have said it was Piya who'd moved first, though.)

"I'm going to live forever," Piya mumbled. "The more we stay close the more it'll hurt-"

"Oh shut up, vamp sis," muttered Misha. And then she pulled away. "Stop making me cry!"

Piya snickered.

"And it's blood in your mouth, not hands." Misha continued.

"Yeah, I love you too," said Piya, half laughing as she brushed back Misha's hair.

"Well, now that's sorted,ladies," said Abhay, standing up, "Maybe now Misha should go home, after all? We've told your families that you and Kabir went on a hiking trip."

***********************

"And whose foolish plan was this?" said Haseena, pacing the room. She turned to Alina. "Which of my sons had this insane idea to go bait Maithali?"

Alina's lips twitched. "It worked, didn't it? It was Sid's,by the way . I'd suggested he distract her, but..."

Haseena glared daggers at Sid. "Are you more idiotic than I believed? You intentionally went and provoked her? Now you know she'll come after you! You do realise what she's like? She'll kill you. She's going to be out for murder now!"

Sid shrugged. "Then she'll kill me. So what? How does one disgraced vampire's death make a difference? Besides, I'm supposed to be dead by rights. I'd say I outlived myself. Not like anyone cares, right?"

Alina couldn't help turning to him, looking at him. His face was defiant as he glared back at Haseena, but somewhere , she saw the defeat in his eyes. Was he playing them again or was he so jaded that he'd just accept no one cared for his death?

"He won't be killed," she told Haseena. "Not on my watch. I've put wards around his house."

Haseena snorted. "And you are very confident, are you not, that Maithali will not be able to break them? And what about the drain on your own powers? Your house, the Dobriyals, and now Sid's? Are you even preparing for a war?"

Alina squared her chin. "I am, Haseena. And I am not weak."

"But placing the protection around the houses weakens you?" said Sid very softly.

Alina threw him a swift look.

"You are going to stay here, Siddharth," said Haseena imperiously. "You will pack your bags and come here."

"What?" said Alina and Sid together.

"No," said Sid. "Unconditionally, NO. I am not staying in this house."

"And what is wrong with that?" Haseena asked. "There is strength in numbers, surely you know that. And at least, Alina will be spared from one of the houses. I'm sure you know what an important ally she is?"

Alina considered. It did make sense...but...

Sid laughed. "Don't joke, Mom. Your son hates me." "You are my son, too," said Haseena, her features softening. "He will understand."

"And what about my dear Dad?" said Sid. "I think he might burst a vein, and then you will definitely change your mind."

Chand walked in. "The humans have left," he announced to Haseena, ignoring the other two people in the room. "What's going on?"

Haseena made an exasperated gesture. "I told Siddharth to shift here for his safety, but he just won't listen!"

"Is that so?" said Chand, turning. "Ah. I see. I did not expect you to fear your brother, but everyone must have their little...insecurities, I assume. Do not waste your time, Haseena. He is too afraid."

Sid glared at him at silence fell across the room. Alina, too , was watching Chand. His eyes were shrewd...calculating.

"Blast you," said Sid finally. "I'm not afraid." He turned to Alina. "Come with me. I'll need your help in packing."

Hiding a smile, Alina followed him out of the house. At the foyer, she turned back just in time to see the small smirk on Chand's face.

********************

Abhay did not go with Kabir and Misha when they left.Piya had decided to curl up in bed with a book, avoiding his gaze. He slid in next to her. "You know it's futile, don't you?" he remarked conversationally after a while. "Both of us know you're not really reading. Not unless you developed the skill of reading upside down in the short while that I was gone, which is very commendable."

Mortified, Piya hastily shifted the book to the proper position. "Leave me alone."

"Sorry, but no," replied Abhay in the same tone. "Stop trying to shut me out.It's not like you're succeeding anyway."

Piya shut the book and made to get out of the bed, but a quick tug of her arm from Abhay meant that she sat back on the wrought iron bed with an ungraceful thump, her feet not even touching the ground.

"Let me go!" She snapped, trying to maintain her calm with Abhay on top of her, inches from her face-not successfully.

"But I want to talk," said Abhay, not moving. "You haven't talked to me since we came back. Are you that angry at me?"

It took her a second to form a coherent reply, what with Abhay's hands inching up her waist and all.

"I'm not angry at you, I'm angry at myself," she snapped. "And stop that." She pushed him off her.

He propped himself up on his elbows and stared at her. "Did you know how we distracted Maithali?"

Piya blinked. He was actually telling her? She'd thought he'd blow her off the second she asked.

"Um, no?"

His eyes sparked with amusement. "Oh, good, or else you'd be bored if you heard it too many times."

He explained their fight, and how they got Misha and Kabir away, as briefly as he could, without omitting too many details.

"Wow, " said Piya, once he'd finished. "That must have been dangerous...and exciting, too. I wish I could have seen-"

She broke off.

"I wished you could have been there, too," said Abhay. "I wanted to keep you with me. "

"I shouldn't have gone anyway," said Piya morosely. "I might have ended up attacking Misha there itself."

"She would have played on your feelings, Piya," said Abhay quietly. "She might have tortured Misha and forced you to watch. She might have attacked us- and we still don't know if she should try attacking her. High Witches and Wizards are deliriously difficult to kill, and- we didn't want to take chances, not at such short notice.She's not even a proper High Witch. It could be a huge risk. Alina wasn't at her full strength either. She kept relying on help, and with humans in the fray..."

He broke off. "I'm sorry, Piya.If I'd just killed her when I'd had the chance, but-"

"I wish I could kill her," said Piya quietly. He went very still, staring down at her. Piya's eyes were burning with a cold rage that was almost scary. "For everything that she's done to you, Sid, my family...I wish I could kill her, and torture her while doing it. I would..." She turned her gaze on Abhay. "I would like to tie her up in silver chains and stake her repeatedly."

Abhay delved into her head without warning, recognizing the darkness that swirled behind her eyes. Bit by bit, he leached it out of her before she realized what was happening, and her gaze turned pleading. She was silently begging him not to judge her.

He simply kissed her head. "I don't want you to become like Natalya, Piya," said Abhay, calmly. "You know you're not like that. You don't enjoy inflicting hurt on other people."

She grimaced, but her eyes showed relief. "I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me."

"It's the Seizar," he explained, getting off the bed and pouring her a glass of blood. "It happens to new borns often, brought on by a combination of thirst and emotional instability."

She made a face as she drank it. "Nice way to say I'm going loony."

"I said emotional, not mental instability, woman," said Abhay, rolling his eyes and pouring her a second glass of blood. "I've had it a few times when I was younger."

Now, Piya's lips twitched. "Just a few?" "Yes," said Abhay firmly.

"A few."

She grinned. "Sure about that? I could always ask your mom, of course, but..."

"Fine," he grimaced. "Seven times, okay? And no more."

She smirked. "See? That wasn't so hard."

**************************

Sid did not speak to Alina till they reached the house, so she took advantage of it to close her eyes and rest. The movements of the car lulled her to sleep, so much so that when Sid's hand on her shoulder woke her up in a hurry, she was surprised to see they had reached. She suppressed the smile on her lips as she turned to him and berated herself for letting her guard down. Idiot!What if he found out-

"Alina, do you really want to stay here?" he asked, his voice unusually gentle. "I could carry you in. You'll be more comfortable inside."

Realising that her musings had given him the wrong idea, she hastened to correct him. "Of course not. I, ah, just got carried away by my thoughts. Of course I'll come with you." She got down, and accompanied him to the door, steadfastly avoiding his gaze.

He unlocked it and went inside. "You can wait here," he told her. "I'll be back in a few minutes. Need something to drink?"

This time she did smile at him. "No, thanks. It's okay. You go pack."

When Sid had gone off to pack, she did a quick scan on his living room. A sofa. Two couches...one centre table. Nothing of interest. A large bookcase stood on one side. She went over to it, her eyes skimming through the collection without much admiration.

She pulled out a book of poetry.Hard backed and leather bound, it had several bookmarks within its pages, which struck her as slightly odd. She opened the first one, "La Belle Dame Sans Merci" by John Keats, and pulled out the bookmark, and then realised it wasn't a bookmark at all, but a rectangular sheet of of paper folded over several times to achieve the effect.

She unfolded it...to find the face of Maithali staring back at her.

Two dimensional and clearly made with pencil, Maithali's mouth was curled in a cruel smirk, her eyes narrowed. She looked beautiful...dangerous. Who'd made it?

She scanned the lines.

"And I awoke and found me here,

On the cold hill's side.

And this is why I sojourn here

Alone and palely loitering,

Though the sedge is withered from the lake,

And no birds sing."

And suddenly, Alina began rifling through the pages, pulling out one bookmark after another.

She opened the next one at "The Arrow and the Song," by H.W Longfellow.

"I shot an arrow into the air,

It fell to earth, I knew not where;

For, so swiftly it flew, the sight

Could not follow it in its flight.

I breathed a song into the air,

It fell to earth, I knew not where;

For who has sight so keen and strong,

That it can follow the flight of song?

Long, long afterward, in an oak

I found the arrow, still unbroke;

And the song, from beginning to end,

I found again in the heart of a friend."

A poem about the consequences of not knowing what consequences your actions might have...she had not expected Sid to mark it. But marked it was indeed, with a portrait of a woman with her face veiled, except for the eyes. Piyali, as Sid would have seen her...

But gosh, if he'd made this , and the one before...Sid was a talented artist. He'd never hinted at it...

She rifled through the pages and found "The Eyes of My Regret," by Angelina Grimke.

The picture used as a bookmark was not a single protrait, as the others had been : there were at least a dozen faces, just faces, looking out at her, rendered beautifully in pencil. A few leapt out at her : a young girl with pigtails, glasses and wearing a choker round her check : her expression were fearful and furious, all at the same time.

And then...she was shocked. A handsome man, staring defiantly out at her, his jaw set. Mikhail...he regretted that?

Her brother , Gaurav. Smiling. Abhay, finally, right at the bottom of the page. His portrait seemed the newest, judging by the sharpness of the lines.

She read the poem again, hardly believing it of Sid.

"Two eyes, unfathomable, soul-searing,

Watching, watching, watching me;

The same two eyes that draw me forth, against my will

dusk after dusk;

The same two eyes that keep me sitting late into the

night, chin on knees

Keep me there lonely, rigid, tearless, numbly

miserable -

The eyes of my Regret."

She blinked. Unbelievable.

By this time, she was extremely curious, because only one bookmark remained, that she hadn't seen yet. She opened the book to a poem entitled "My Love Is Like To Ice," by Edmund Spenser. She'd read Spenser, but not this particular poem.

My love is like to ice, and I to fire:

How come it then that this her cold is so great

Is not dissolved through my so hot desire,

But harder grows the more I her entreat?

Or how comes it that my exceeding heat

Is not allayed by her heart-frozen cold,

But that I burn much more in boiling sweat,

And feel my flames augmented manifold?

What more miraculous thing may be told,

That fire, which is congealed with senseless cold,

Should kindle fire by wonderful device?

Such is the power of love in gentle mind,

That it can alter all the course of kind.

She wondered who they were for, but just as she was unfolding the paper that had been used as a bookmark, a hand nimbly snatched both paper and book away from her.

Heart hammering, she looked up guiltily into Sid's face. His expression was stony as he tucked it back into the book and without a word, walked to a bag and packed the book into it.

"I'm sorry," she blurted out. "I didn't mean to- it was purely accidental- I didn't know-"

She broke off as he straightened to look at her. "What would you have done in my place?"

"I-" She bit her tongue. It was not a fair question. "I wouldn't leave personal items about in a place where anyone else might see them."

And now she saw it, the intense irritation in his face. "Of course," he sniped. "The great Alina R.Khurana would always take precautions into letting anyone see anything in her life that was remotely personal."

The accusation stung, in part because it was true, in part because he had no business saying it. "Rich of you," she shot back, "At least I don't keep people hanging over what they mean to me, unlike you! And I do reveal things about myself to people whom I trust," she added as an afterthought. Why she was defending herself she had no idea.

Sid nodded. "Yes. And I am not whom you could trust, am I ?"

"That's not what I-what did you call me?" she asked, suddenly suspicious.

Just like that, Sid's dark mood vanished, and he grinned. "I rile you up, don't I?" he asked. "I don't think many people have the guts to do it."

Alina gave him a rueful half-smile. "A few do. I don't let them rile me."

"But you let me." His expression was serious as he stared at her, and she fought not to lose herself into the unfathomable depths of his black eyes.

She searched for an answer, and found the one in the back of her head. She couldn't tell him that, so she lowered her gaze.

"We should leave," she said coolly.

"We should," Sid agreed. "Want a beer?" The sliver of disgust and horror passed over face she masked it with indifference. "No thanks."

He'd seen it the night he'd been sloshed, too. "Okay."

He followed her to the car, with his things. Alina stood next to the car, hugging herself. When he finished, he went up to her, to see her looking up at the stars, a strange sadness in her face. Longing. Without thinking, he put an arm around her, and drew her so that her head hit his chest. She stiffened, but he didn't relax his hold.

"Let me go," she said, and if he wasn't mistaken, her voice was breaking. Dear God, she was crying. "You looked like you needed it," he murmured, gingerly stroking her hair. It felt soft and silky under his touch: how had he not noticed it before?

She took a great, shuddering breath, and then he felt wetness through his shirt. His arms tightened convulsively around her, not understanding what he had to do to make it better, while his head went into a tailspin of horror that Alina was crying, Alina, the consummate tough girl.

What was he supposed to say? What was he supposed to do? "Please stop crying," he said at last. "If it's something I said-"

She drew away from him, swiping furiously at her eyes, but Sid hadn't let go of her yet. "No- listen," he said, forcing her to look at him. "If this is about earlier-"

She shook her head, giving a watery smile. "No. No, Sid. It's not about you. Well, some of it is, but not everything-"

He opened his mouth, then closed it again. He didn't really know what to say to that. Alina sniffed loudly, taking deep breaths as she managed to compose herself. "Sometimes..." she said finally, "Sometimes, I wish... I wish I knew what it was to live as I'd like to...to have a normal life. To have a normal family, to have normal goals...sometimes, I wish I was a clueless human. I wish I wasn't so foolish as to-"

"I'm sorry," he said, feeling miserable. "I know it's not much..but I... care for you, Alina. I care for you more than anyone else- even me. I'd do everything I could to make sure you were-"

"Do you?" she asked, looking up at him? "Why? Because I'm a powerful witch? Or because I'm an efficient employee?"

Sid smiled wryly. "You make me want to be better," he said, shrugging. "You make me believe I could be better. And I know that...you've got more secrets than anyone I know, and I know you have problems which you deal with alone- " He broke off. "Sorry. I know you don't like me very much. Nor do you trust me - this is probably all just talk to you-"

But Alina was smiling. "Thank you," she said. "Like you said, it's probably all talk. But it's nice talk, Sid. It's okay. I...care for you, too.A lot."

Sid looked shocked, then laughed. "That was funny."

"I wasn't joking," said Alina primly. "You don't trust me much either, do you?"

The laughter died away. "For real?" He shook his head. "I used to wish, maybe you'd care for me, as a person, some day...I never believed you would -"

Alina felt herself flushing. "Okay," she said, embarassed. "Look, we really should get going-"

"Right-of course," said Sid, ducking his head. He held the door open for her, then got in himself.

The car sped along silently, along the almost deserted mountain road.

"Do you know," said Alina suddenly, her voice soft. "When I was very young, I...there was a wolf in my clan. One day, there was a party in our house...I didn't like it. I stayed away from the guests...I stood alone in my garden."

Sid's hands tightened over the wheel as he saw Alina's face whiten with the memory. He forced himself to stay silent.

"He had been drinking." She could even smell it now, the smell of alcohol in his breath when he'd dragged her to him, forcefully attacking her lips.

She shuddered unconsciously. Next to her, Sid's own face had gone stony, his eyes murderous as he realised...

"There was a struggle." She paused, taking a deep breath. "He didn't- rape me. I...I went a bit insane." She gave a weak laugh. "I attacked him. Clawed, scratched,bit...ran."

He couldn't help it. His hand closed over hers, convulsively. She didn't move.

"My mother was not amused," she continued, in a whisper. "I had already become a teenager...I should have let him..."

Sid slammed the brakes, stopping the car so they were both flung forward. "That b****!"

She turned to him. "The clan voted to punish me. They decided to award me to him as a slave, to punish me as he saw fit. My mother agreed."

Her fingers finally returned his grip. "And then...and then you came. You came, and fought...you killed him. Do you remember? You killed him."

Sid's voice was little more than a whisper. "He was holding the chain...you had a choker around your neck. You were only a child..."

"You saved me then," said Alina softly. "And when you went, the clan was terrified. They'd never seen such a brutal killing before...one of them told my mother that if I had vampire protectors now...none of them would touch me. Gaurav had tried to help then, but after you killed him...he swore that if any of the clan laid a single finger on me, he'd hunt you down and forge a treaty with you to kill every last one of them. And strangely, Gaurav was...well, a lot of the clan respected him."

Sid exhaled, closing his eyes. "My mother was furious, though," she said smiling bitterly. "She found ways and means to torture me with her powers. It was a game for her, to see how long I lasted before I begged. And every time, I thought of you, coming to a stranger's aid...and I kept myself sane."

She looked up at him. "Don't you see, Sid? You don't need me or anyone else to make you a better person. You're enough for yourself."

Sid felt sick. There was no word to describe the cloying horror and anger that was rising in his gut : the impulse to go and destroy every last one of them...the shame, that he had left her in such a state...

"I am not good, Alina," he bit out. "If it were Abhay, he would have taken on the entire clan, and your mother, too. And he wouldn't have left you there...He would have done something..."

"But it wasn't," she interrupted. "Abhay wasn't there. You were. You saved me because you knew they were wrong."

He turned away in disgust and started the car again, speeding through the roads. "I should have taken you from there," he gritted out. "I should have found out everything...all I thought was that it was too unfair punishment for such a small girl. I should've killed your mother. I shouldn't have let Piya do it. I should have killed her that day. I would have made her suffer..."

Alina looked taken aback at the vehemence of his tone.

"It's all right," she said, hoping to calm him down. "It's over now. It was years ago."

Sid did not reply. He didn't say a word till they reached the house.

And even then, when he entered, he walked straight up to Chand and Haseena and told them he was going out for an indefinite period of time and . Then, without glancing back at Alina, Sid walked out, leaving her puzzled, even as the servants scurried about taking Sid's things to his room.

"Are you all right, Alina?" said Haseena. "You look a little ill."

She smiled. "No, of course not. I was hoping I could talk to Abhay and Piya? I haven't spoken to Piya yet."

"They're in their room," said Haseena.

As Alina started to climb the stairs, Haseena's voice floated after her. "Don't forget to knock!"

Which left her feeling a weird combination of jealousy, awkwardness and the strong desire to laugh.

She found the door open, with Abhay casually pouring himself a drink, while Piya stared at him from her perch on the bed.

The back of her eyelids burned and something heavy lodged in her throat. She could not describe it in words, the expression on Piya's face. Then Abhay turned and met Piya's gaze, and Alina had the impression of looking directly into the sun. Something had shifted between Abhay and Piya, making them seem strangely unreal, as though they were sharing a moment out of time.

She averted her gaze : it was blinding her. She blinked rapidly, then gave a discreet knock on the door.

The moment was broken : Abhay and Piya both turned to look at her, and Alina felt an odd pang for intruding.

"Hi," said Abhay. "You all right?"

Piya got to her feet. "Hi, Alina," she said in a slightly choked voice, which made it very clear that Piya was rather mad at her. Oh, well.

She cleared her throat. "Hi. Um, I was thinking, I'd like to talk to Piya alone for a few minutes, if that's okay."

"You could talk to me in front of Abhay," Piya snapped. "I've heard that I'm at a susceptible stage to bite people."

Alina had the mad urge to to laugh, but controlled it. "It won't be long," she said patiently. "A few minutes is all I ask."

"Okay, Alina," said Abhay. "I'll leave you two to it." He looked at Piya. "You'll call me if there's anything you need, right?" And Alina knew what it meant- Abhay would be reasonable, but he'd have Piya's back. Always.

Piya nodded. "Of course."

He nodded to the two women and left the room.

Alina came closer. "Do you mind if I sit?"

"Oh, by all means," said Piya sarcastically. "Do make yourself comfortable. You're welcome to lie down if you so wish."

Alina sighed as she sat on the armchair. "I'm sorry."

Piya crossed her arms. "About what?"

Alina raised an eyebrow. "Why don't you start? I'm sure, that way, we won't miss anything."

Piya gritted her teeth. "Well, then. Let's start with how you put enchantments on me on my wedding day. Without my knowledge."

She sat down, crossing one leg over the other, her arms firmly crossed over one another.

Alina shrugged. "It was only a precaution. In case any of the guests were injured."

"Well, too bad it lulled me into a sense of security then," said Piya caustically. "Because I almost attacked my sister today!Couldn't you have put a spell on me today?"

"No," said Alina simply. "One, I wanted you to see and experience for yourself what it felt like. Nothing would ever have happened to Misha- Abhay followed the two of you upstairs as soon as you went. I wanted you to see why we didn't want you to come with us in a situation where Misha would be cut and scraped all over. You do see now, don't you? Not, of course," she added, "That the other reasons weren't enough already."

Piya glared at her, wondering if she could get away with a bite on her. "You're a manipulative, calculating, selfish-"

"Oh, I know, trust me," said Alina, bitterly. "Reason number two : I wasn't strong enough. I expended too much of my energy healing Kabir and Misha, locating Maithali, helping to trap her...no, I wasn't strong enough."

The anger abated somewhat, but Piya's irritation refused to go away. "Is everything you do motivated by your end goal?" She said finally.

When Alina looked surprised, Piya rolled her eyes. "Oh, come on. You do have an agenda. It's more than obvious. No, what you need to answer is, are we all just pawns to you? No more than collateral damage, if any of us get in danger, or die? Did any of us matter to you?"

Alina's eyes sparked fire. "If I'd been so heartless, I wouldn't have gone to get your sister and her boyfriend back. Risking my life along the way, might I add."

"How do I know it wasn't just a means to an end?" asked Piya. "How do I know it wasn't just another way to get back at Maithali?How, Alina?"

It was a simple question, but it effectively rendered Alina speechless, because she saw the underlying fear and pain under the question. The pain of someone who felt betrayed and the fear of someone wanting to trust again.

Her anger dissolved, and she came up to Piya. "Trust me," she said earnestly. "I took up the mission to make Sid and Maithali suffer. And then, well, Sid defected, and I...emotions were never my plan. I didn't like Abhay very much. Too reckless, too stubborn. I wasn't sure if I liked you or not. You seemed too naive, too pliable, when we met. And I hated Sid. Well, just goes to show, doesn't it?" She laughed softly. "I never planned to make friends. I never planned to fall in love. But that doesn't change the fact that it happened. I care, Piya. More than I should. Emotion- any kind of weakness- is a danger to me and others. Even so-" She shrugged.

"I know how you're feeling," she said, more gently. "You're angry, at yourself, at the situation, all of us. I know. I can tell."

Piya's lip curled. "I felt a lot helpless when I was human. I don't know what else to say."

"I know," said Alina. "That's why, we're going to train you, for potential battles. Against vampires stronger than you, against High Witches. Against werewolves. Starting tomorrow."

"What?" said Piya in shock. "What- why? How?"

Alina smiled. "So that next time, you're with us. Besides, Maithali's not going to sit idle now. She might go after you now. She's certainly going to be very tired of games, if she goes around trying to get your family. She won't be able to breach those shields." She smirked. "So what do you say, Piya?You in or out?"

Piya blinked several times. Then finally, in a voice like sandpaper, she spoke. "Tomorrow?"

"Oh, yeah," said Alina. "Tomorrow, morning. You'd better get some sleep. On that note- good night."

She smiled, and glided out of the room. Piya stared after her. Excitement and trepidation hit her in equal measure.

She was going to be trained. That did call for celebration, except...

*****************************************

As soon as Alina left, Piya was aware of feeling irritation..anger. Not hers. She closed her eyes, trying to concentrate on finding out where Abhay was and why he was in a snit. At least one good thing had come out of it all : they'd exchanged blood thrice now, which made things easier for her.

She felt his surprise as he registered his presence, and then she realized he was in the library, book in hand. Stewing, from the vibes she was getting. What had happened?

"Don't ask," he replied, sounding highly displeased. "Leave me alone."

Yeah, right. Abhay really should know better than to give her orders.

In seconds, she had reached him, snatching the book out of his hands. "You'll shred it if you hold it much longer," she said, pulling out a chair and sitting opposite him. "So tell me what's wrong. And don't tell me nothing. I felt you."

When Abhay finally raised his eyes to her, he looked resigned, and felt it, too.

"Mom's got Sid to stay here," he said, his voice hollow. "Full time."

It was with difficulty that she stopped the exclamation on her lips. Abhay grimaced,reading her. "I know," he said, leaning back and closing his eyes. "Apparently he's in danger from Maithali. And the inconsiderate, irresponsible idiot hasn't even come in yet. Sent his bags and went out somewhere."

Piya bit her lip. She couldn't deny Haseena's logic, but surely there had to be a way?

"There isn't," he told her. "Maithali's going to attack again, soon. Alina's exhausted and if she's not at her full strength, it could be disastrous for us. And I don't like the idea of asking her to put protection around him."

She grimaced at his words. They were trapped. For a heartbeat, they sat in silence, till Piya asked, "Would it be so bad if he came, Abhay? We could...learn to trust him...maybe?"

The smile Abhay gave her was a little too understanding for her liking. "I can't trust him, Piya," he said softly. "It goes both ways. I know what Mom's trying to do. But...there's too much between us. The years...you can't undo the past. None of us can. We can't change the fact that we hate each other."

He rose, turning his back to her. She went up to him, wrapping her arms around him, resting her cheek on his back, her palm over his still heart. "Do you really believe that you hate him, Abhay?" she said softly. "Or is it that you want to believe it?"

He released a ragged breath, his palm coming to cover hers. "I don't know."

He twisted, turning to face her, holding her face in both of his hands. "Does that make me weak?"

She smiled, a slow, knowing smile. "No, Abhay. I don't think you are weak"

She was the one who initiated the kiss. Their lips met, soft, exploratory. His fingers went to her scalp,burying itself under the mass of curls, even as her own arms wrapped themselves around his neck, as she pressed closer.

After an age, they broke apart. "Dad wouldn't like it if we christened his library," he murmured, resting his forehead against hers. "Some of those books are pretty valuable, you know."

She giggled softly. "I know. Disrespectful, that's what it is."

"Exactly."

He moved away from then, then took her hand, threading her fingers through his. "Come on. We should go to our room."

A few hours later, they lay on their bed, her head on Abhay's chest, the one that was as silent as her own.

"Say it out loud," said Abhay finally. "What you're thinking. Tell me."

She exhaled. "Abhay, I don't understand it,"she said finally. "When you said Maithali's not a true witch...what did you mean?"

Abhay had known she would ask that question, yet he tensed.

"The thing is," he said quietly,"High Wizards and Witches can pass on their powers to not only their natural born children, but to any other creature they choose. People like us, too."

"I know that," said Piya. "What are you telling me?"

"I'm saying," said Abhay softly, "That Maithali was not chosen to be a High Witch."

Silence followed. "But-?"

"She researched them," said Abhay, and his voice was hard. "Found out their weaknesses. And then, she managed to kill one of them- with Sid's passive support. All I know is that he didn't help her kill that wizard."

She gasped. "But you told me they're-"

"Difficult to kill," said Abhay. "So they are. But you see, the wizard was yet young when he...was converted. He did not know...did not realise. He was apparently...naive."

She twisted her head to stare at him in horror. "She killed him for power?"

"For his power," said Abhay, his eyes chips of ice. "She leached it off him. Fed on it. And then killed him while...while his...family sat in a clan meeting.

She swallowed. "So..."

"Oh, that's not all," said Abhay grimly. "Feeding off a High Wizard's power gave her...powers of her own, different from normal High folk. Darker, more twisted. Maithali killed twelve other witches and wizards."

"Not High folk," he said, his mouth twisting. "The less powerful ones. She knew enough not to attempt another murder of a High Witch or Wizard when the entire community was- and is still- baying for her blood. Quite literally."

"The others..." Piya's voice had dropped to a whisper.

"Elementals," said Abhay. "They're magic users, but not that powerful. Regardless, twelve Elementals..."

She wanted to be sick. "So yes. It gives her powers that we still don't know the extent of. And that's why," he said softly," That's why you need to train as hard as you can. Alina, me, Dad- we're all going to help you in some way or the other."

She shook her head, brushing it away from her eyes.

"The High Wizard who died..." she said, then faltered. "His family...?"

"Oh, his family's helping in their own way, all right," said Abhay with a twisted smile. "I believe you've met his sister. Natalya?"

This time she sat up in shock. "Natalya! The Queen?"

"Oh, yes," said Abhay. "Our Queen. Also, a High Witch. You remember?"

Piya couldn't think.

"So," she said finally."Is that why Reina always seemed to...dislike Maithali?Because she killed one of her own?"

Abhay nodded, and she felt him level up the walls over his thoughts again, and this time, she knew he was sparing her things which she could not have been able to handle. "Oh, he was one of her own, all right."

They stayed silent for a long time.

Finally, Abhay said , "It's late. Go to sleep, Piya. You're going to have a long day tomorrow."

She lay back down, but sleep would not come to her, her mind milling with the recent horrors she had found out, as well as more questions that would have been exhausting but were mostly unnerving. "Oh, tiger," she heard him whisper. "I only wished to hide less things from you."

She kept her eyes closed, and after a few minutes, she felt his mind touch hers.

Abhay reached inside, pulling all her happy memories to the front of her mind, till the thought of death and murder left her, and finally, she slept.

*****************

Maithali collapsed on the ground as the spell which she had managed to design to free her finally worked, sapping her of a lot of her strength. The Setlark could be easily removed by any true High Witch, but since she was not, she had had to work it out the hard way. Icy rage burned through her, but even so, she knew better than to let go of it.

They would pay. All of them. Piya, Abhay, that witch they called Alina. And Sid most of all.

She had loved him, she thought, unable to control the helpless pain and fury that surged through her as she recalled his words. And regret. Terrible, cloying regret.

An age ago, he had loved her. She had known it then, and she had disregarded it. How could he have stopped so easily? Why had he started to hate her?

Had it happened when he had become temporarily human? She'd lost her temper with him,several times, she recalled with shame. But he'd always been so contrite, so accepting... Had she turned him away with her cruelty?

A sliver of hope welled up in her. If she could just turn him human again, and treat him with love and kindness, would he love her again?

Would it work? And then, she wondered...would she have to kill him? Would she be able to?

She sat up, the beginnings of a plan in her head. First, she would take out that bitch who had imprisoned her...find out who she was and why she had chosen to stand against Maithali.

Pain lanced through her head, and she closed her eyes. No. First, she would need to rest. And then...and then, she would regroup.

*******************************

Kabir accompanied Misha to her room, after a lengthy interrogation which they had only managed to escape by saying they were tired. She had seemed unusually quiet all the while.

"You okay?" he found himself asking. "Mish?" She turned to smile tiredly at him. "Yes, I am. What about you, Kabir? Are you?"

"I..." He couldn't lie to her. She was his best friend, she'd know. Just as he knew she was keeping something from him, right now. "I will be."

She reached over and kissed him, briefly. "Go home," she whispered. "Call me when you're there."

"Good night, Mish," he said quietly. "I will."

They stared at each other for a second more, each wondering if they should say the thing in their minds. Finally, Kabir ducked his head, and left. It wasn't the time or the place, anyway.