Sebastian Alexander was shocked. My boyfriend was familiar with the guy I thought was a stranger. What are you doing here?
Thats what I wanted to ask you. I had to find out from your parents that you werent returning to Romania. But now I see why His gaze bore through me. Well, arent you going to introduce us?
This is Sebastian, Alexander said politely. Sebastian, this is
Raven. Sebastian took my hand in his. He wore more rings than I did and sported black polish on his bitten fingernails. He kissed my hand. I couldnt quite tell if this character was charming or just an annoying flirt.
Well, arent you going to invite me in? he asked with a wide grin.
Of course, Alexander replied, still surprised.
Alexander stepped back, but Sebastian didnt follow.
Just a minute, Sebastian said. Ill get my things.
Things? Alexander asked, his mouth hanging agape.
Sebastian had already taken off toward a vintage mint-condition 1960s black Mustang with silver racing stripes, which was parked in the Mansions drive.
Alexanderwho is? I began softly.
Alexander didnt answer. Instead, he remained focused on Sebastian.
The handsome visitor popped open the trunk and reached inside. I could see in the distance that he was pulling out a large duffel bag and setting it on the drive. He reached in again and placed another bag on the broken pavement. Then another.
I assumed Sebastian intended to spend the night, but judging from the amount of luggage he possessed, I wasnt sure just how many nights he planned on staying.
I wasnt sure how I felt about this strangers visitor moveinto the Mansion. Alexanders parents left Dullsville and we were free to resume our independence. Now we were accepting boarders?
But more important, who was this person and why was he here?
I better help him, my boyfriend said, and headed for the Mustang.
From my vantage point on the crumbling steps, I wasnt privy to their conversation. But by their gestures, I could tell the two chatted like reuniting brothers. After a few minutes, they carried Sebastians bags back toward me. I trailed the ghostly pair back into the Mansion, up the stairs, and into one of the vacant rooms.
The room was stark and cold. A velvet eggplant-hued curtain covered a single window. There wasnt so much as a bed or air mattress. The only decoration present was a tiny vase with dead lavender flowers Id placed on a small table a few days before.
Appears you still like living in the past, he said to Alexander. Wheres the TV, man?
Down the hall, Alexander said, pointing to the far end of the house.
Alexander retrieved a candelabra sitting on a table in the hallway. He lit a match and illuminated the room.
Sebastian dumped his oversized bags on the floor. They landed with a thud, making me suspicious about the weight of his clothes. He walked around the room with the candelabra.
Lavender? Sebastian asked as the candles spread light on the vase.
Its just Ravens touch, Alexander said.
I can put it in another room if it bothers you, I offered.
Sebastian gazed down at me. His eyes glistened in the candlelight. I wouldnt have it any other way.
Alexander stepped between us. Ill give you some time to settle in, he said. You must be tired from your trip.
Sebastian surveyed his new digs and stretched out his arms while Alexander closed the door behind us.
I stopped Alexander before he moved. Who is this guy? I asked. One of your relatives?