And now, with the arrival of Sebastian, two immortals were partying it up in the Mansion without me.
At this point, as I was being driven home by Jameson, I was as much disappointed about not being a vampire as I was just being me and not being included in my boyfriend and his best friends sudden plans.
This situation would have to be fixedsooner rather than later.
Chapter 2 The Heart of a Vampire
The following day, I was bursting to tell my best friend, Becky, the news of Alexanders surprise visitor. I waited impatiently by the swings in Evans Park until I finally saw her heading down the hill.
Where have you been? I asked, catching up to her.
I had to drive Matt to practice. I hate saying good-bye. And yet I love saying good-byeif you know what I mean. She giggled, still in swoon mode.
I knew what she meant and how she felt about kissing her favorite guy. But for once, I had other things on my mind.
I intently led her toward the bottom of the yellow plastic double-wide slide.
Whats so urgent? she asked as we sat down.
First it was Alexanders parents. Although you know I adored them.
Yes. Whats up?
Now Alexanders best friend has invaded the Mansion.
Becky was puzzled. I didnt know he had a best friend.
Neither did I. I sighed.
WowAlexanders so mysterious.
Evasive.
Reclusive, she added.
Tell me about it
Just like a vampire, my best friend said. I think thats why hes the perfect match for you.
You really think so? I asked.
Of course.
A perfect match? Or a vampire?
A perfect match, silly. But if anyone was a vampireAlexander could be one.
You think so? You honestly think so? I prodded.
He is from Romania and has a butler. Come to think of it, Ive only seen him at night, she said, and laughed. And that garlic allergy
But I wasnt laughing.
Did I say something wrong? she asked.
No. In fact, you said something right, I wanted to say. Could I finally bare all the secrets to my best friend? Would she realize this time that her statements were true, instead of laughing at me when I suggested the very same thing? At last Id be able to unleash the truth about Jagger, Luna, Alexanders parents, Onyx and Scarlet from the Coffin Club, and, most important, my boyfriend. The load Id been carrying in silence was too heavy on my temporarily rose-tattooed shoulders.
I weighed my thoughts. If Becky knew Alexanders true identity, then shed surely blab the facts to Matt. I knew he was more tight-lipped than Becky. Guys didnt gossipI didnt even know Alexander had a best friend! But this news was bigger than a footnote to a byline. This was front-page Dullsville Gazette breaking news. Vampires Aliveor UndeadAtop Benson Hill. And if this information did slip out at practice or a game, then Trevor Mitchell would know. Not only would Alexander have to return to Romania, but it would be imperative that he never inhabit Dullsville again.