It was a long drive to the area the Dark ones were hiding. I knew each second was one we did not have to lose. So it began the search for Corinne. I would not stop looking for her ever. We followed the long winding road, next to the river to Doc’s childhood home once known as the Parker manor.
Chapter 26
“Back to Corrine”
The Woods
I had fallen asleep, but awoke now. I was not sure if I was dead but when I felt the bitterly cold wind hit my still wet clothes, I knew I was very much alive. I moved my arm, and heard a crunching sound; ice had formed on my coat, while I slept. I knew I did not have much longer. I was so tired I could not even hold my eyes open, breathing was a major effort. I tried to go back to sleep, when I heard the sound of some animal waking close to me.
I tensed up, or thought I did, being a half vamp, half-human ice cube made it hard to tell. I had no strength to open my eyes, so I didn’t bother trying. I really didn’t care; whatever it was could go ahead and eat me for all I cared. The “animal” was moving closer, it stopped for a long time as if it was listening or waiting for something, maybe for me to run from it.
I had news for it; unless it liked frozen food, I was not going to be a very good meal at all. It moved again, and I did get nervous now, it was closer. I was still half-human and my stupid fight or flight instinct was kicking in. I tried to get up, but where would I even go. I couldn’t even stand up. I quit trying; it was not to be if this animal wanted to attack me, I would have no way of escape.
It was next to me now I could hear the pine needles crunch as it crouched next to me. I tucked my head down, as some lame way to keep it from eating me head first.
I felt it touch me, but it was not a paw or a set of claws it was a hand, it caressed my face.
“Corrine, my God can you hear me?” It was my William, he was here now.
“William.” I managed to whisper. I reached out my shaking hand blindly as I could not open my eyes. I felt him take it in his own. I felt him pick me up and cradle me in his strong warm arms; his breath was as warm on my icy cheek as he kissed me softly.
“I thought you might be gone already, you were so still. I was afraid to touch you and know the truth. I went ahead of Roth; he’s not far behind me. We will get you back to Doc and Pratt; it’s going to be ok honey.”
“No.” I whispered weakly. “I don’t think I can make it, I’m so sorry.”
“No don’t say that, now” He whispered louder. “You’re going to be ok, just hand in there just a little bit longer please.” He begged.
I knew he wanted me to be strong now, but it seems all the times I had to fight for my life, had drained me. I had no more strength. I could not do this anymore. I wanted desperately to stay with William and never leave his side, but my body was not going to let me.
“Corrine, please I’m begging you, just hang on a little longer. Roth’s coming; he will drive us back to the coven house.”
“I will try, it just hurts so badly, and I’m just so cold. I can’t move.” I struggled to open my eyes. I needed to see him, to look into his eyes possibly for the last time. I slowly fought the heaviness in my head, and looked up at him. He smiled, placing one hand on my face.
“I’m here my love, right here. It will be ok now.”
“You can’t stay, the Dark coven will be coming, and they are looking for us!” I sighed, clinging to his warm body.
“Us? You mean you and me?” he looked puzzled.
“Well yes, but Sayann too, she helped me escape, you must make sure Doc and them do not hurt her. She wants to be one of us. That animal Kyle made her a vamp against her will two years ago. I would not be here if she hadn’t helped me