A New Beginning

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Taking place a few weeks after the movie ends. Max, Star, and Michael have died. The Frog brother’s and Sam have fled Santa Carla. The Lost Boys survived and are still living in the cave. A few new friends join their Pack, but can they handle knowing what the boys are? A few references to the past events. Marko has a MAJOR role in this story! The Boys, such as Marko and Paul and Dwayne, have more of a character.

Genre: Angst, Romance

Characters: David, Dwayne, Marko, OCs: Multiple, Other Fandom Character – Crossover, Paul

Rating: PG-13

Notes: I put a lot of Marko, Paul, Caleb, and Gabriel in this one. It practically revolves around them. Dwayne is on his own with Selma, and David has committed the worst crime in the Pack. They have main parts, but it’s mostly Marko, Paul, Caleb, and Gabriel. Paragraphs that are in little star marks *are flashbacks*.

Stats: Posted: 28 Nov 2004 | Chapters: 4 | Status: WIP | Word Count: 14,985 | Status: WIP | Length: 10-20k

A New Beginning by Phoenix

[nextpage title=”Part 1″]

Part 1

The sun slowly sank down behind the horizon. It’s roseate castings danced off the rock walls of the bluff. The ocean cast a million sparkles across the bluff like a giant disco ball, spinning above the rays of the sun.

Caleb sat at the opening of the shaft. Her thoughts trailed to the earlier events. Katherine had been stopped, but not before wounding Caleb very bad. That caused David to convince Caleb into joining the Pack. Of course Caleb loved her Pack, but she almost wished that wouldn’t have happened. She missed the warm rays of the sun, the hot sand beneath her feet, and just seeing the sun period.

Human’s don’t know how good they have it and often take normal things for granted, until they are taken from the day. Caleb missed watching the sunsets with her father, taking walks in the sun, and all the other things she couldn’t do anymore. She was now forever condemned to the nightlife.

“Hey,” a voice called out from above Caleb.

She looked up and saw Marko smiling down upon her. He looked so beautiful from the way he was hanging. His golden hair had gotten so long; it almost grazed Caleb sitting below him. Marko’s jacket was lying on the rock floor below him, piled up into a ball. His hazel eyes were filled with happiness. He dropped from the ceiling, gracefully landing on the rock floor. He reached for his boots, sitting next to Caleb. Marko slid his left one on, followed by his right.

“Hey,” Caleb replied, not looking at him.

“You’re up early,” Marko said, yawning. He stretched, reaching his arms above his head.

“Yeah, I guess,” Caleb mumbled.

“Excited about tonight? It’s the big night;” Marko gushed, jerking Caleb up. He wrapped her in a hug, dancing around the small cave. His excited laughter echoed throughout the small room.

“Alright you two, I’ve seen enough of that to last me a life time,” Paul called playfully, staring down at the two hugging figures beneath him.

“Yeah right! You’ll never get enough action;” Caleb called up to Paul, breaking away from Marko. She pushed him away roughly, hurrying under where Paul was hanging.

Paul dropped from the ceiling and landed before Caleb. She gave a wide smile, hugging the vampire before her. She slid her hands under his jacket, feeling the firm muscle underneath. Paul kissed her forehead loudly, making a wet noise as he did so. Caleb giggled at the gesture. Caleb tugged a piece of his white blonde hair playfully. Paul and she had become best friends since the night she was changed. It was his blood she fed on the nights she layed recovering from her wounds. Caleb confided in him, telling Paul all her deepest secrets and most intimate thoughts.

Marko looked upon his friend and lover with jealousy glowing in his hazel eyes. Marko could feel the anger tighten into a ball into his stomach. He watched as Paul tickled Caleb. She collapsed to the ground, balling up to protect her sides. He leaned down and tickled her some more, proving what she was doing couldn’t keep him from tickling her. As Paul’s fingers danced across Caleb’s body more, the more Marko grew angry.

Caleb’s laughter floated up to David. He opened his cerulean eyes, watching the scene below him. The irritated vampire sighed in frustration. If he didn’t know any better, David would swear Caleb and Paul were in love. Marko had better watch it, or Paul would steal Caleb away. It looked like Caleb wouldn’t put up much of a fight.

A whoosh of air stirred around those gathered on the floor. Paul looked over and saw his leader standing next to Marko. David was standing just far enough behind Marko to stay out of eye reach. The black clad leader shook his head slowly, warning Paul of what he was doing. David jerked his thumb toward Marko, slightly cocking his head to the left. Paul’s eyes drifted to Marko. Anger, jealousy, and a little bit of hate radiated from the vampire. Paul cleared his throat, picked Caleb up, and backed away. Caleb was confused and slightly disappointed Paul quit tickling her. Her gaze drifted over to Marko. He stood rigid and on edge, about ready to explode with his raging temper. A sheepish look crossed Caleb’s face as she moved to Marko.

His arm protectively landed on her waist, planting his hand on her right hip. He pulled her near, leaning down and kissing Caleb. The kiss was hard and rough, almost cutting Caleb’s lips from the pressure Marko was giving. He was letting her know she was his. Caleb’s hands went up to Marko’s chest. She returned the kiss, reminding him he had nothing to worry about.

When Caleb pulled away, her eyes flickered to Paul. For a moment, she thought she detected a little sadness in seeing her and Marko kissing. Caleb dismissed the thought and turned back to Marko. Amy entered from the shaft just then, smiling at David. She walked over to the gruff vampire, planting a wet kiss on his lips. David grabbed Amy hungrily and kissed her long and hard.

“David, everyone’s watching,” Amy protested, pulling away from David. He held onto her, pulling Amy closer to him.

“Let them watch,” David bluntly stated, looking down into Amy’s eyes.

Amy was the kind of girl who didn’t like PDA, or public display of affection. Her shyness is what attracted David to her. It puzzled everyone because David is so outspoken, blunt, and wild. Amy on the other hand was shy, withdrawn, and tame. It didn’t make sense, but they appeared to be happy… and that was all that mattered.

“So, are we ready to go? I’m hungry,” Dwayne grumbled, his presence made pointed by his loud voice.

Everyone turned to see him standing in the opening of the shaft. Dwayne had his arms crossed over his chest, lounging against the rock. He turned away and started out toward the cave entrance. His footsteps could be heard echoing back to the rest of the Pack.

David and Amy started the lead, Marko and Caleb following them, then Paul making the end. His hematite eyes watched Marko and Caleb sadly. Paul had never really loved in his life and it seemed when he did… the girl was always taken. His friend, brother, and Pack member took this one. Another law of the Pack was ‘Betray not your own’.

Paul had to be careful for if he slipped up; it could mean disastrous results for the Pack. The Pack had already had its share of tragedies, and Paul didn’t want to add to that pile.

Selma walked down the exit from the Big Dipper. So far she was having a blast in Santa Carla. Her blue eyes sparked with laughter. Her whole body swam, as if still on the swirling ride. Selma made her way, a little wobbly, down the Boardwalk. She hugged her jacket closer to her olive skin. So far, Selma had no problems in Santa Carla… not like she did back in Los Angeles.

Selma had just graduated from high school when she met Rudy. He was sweet, kind, sexy, caring, sensitive, and just plain great. There weren’t many Hispanic guys around her neighborhood, but it was nice to finally find one. Selma’s parents emigrated from El Salvador. They hoped a better life would be for Selma, but they went back… leaving her with her grandmother. It wasn’t long after she graduated that her grandmother, or Mama D she was called, died. That’s when Rudy showed up.

He seemed to make it all better. Rudy took care of Selma, making sure she always had clothes on her back and food in her stomach. Selma didn’t think it would come with a price. She knew Hispanic men had a history of beating their women, but she didn’t want to believe that… especially about someone as great as Rudy.

One day, Selma came home from work… only to find Rudy in bed with another woman. Selma freaked out and started to pack. Rudy told her that she would never leave, even though she desperately tried.

“You will never leave me, senora,” Rudy had shouted, gathering the confused woman’s clothes and shoving her out the door.

“Oh yeah, don’t believe that for one moment,” Selma retaliated, gathering her clothes and packing them into the only suitcase she had.

Rudy reached out and backhanded Selma, throwing her into the wall. That left her with a black eye, sprained wrist, and bruises all over her body. He beat her almost every night after that, until she couldn’t take it anymore. Selma left one night, leaving all her things except a few outfits. She snuck out while Rudy was gone. Selma never came home after that.

Now, Selma walked alone down the Boardwalk. She descended the stairs, stepping onto the soft beach sand. The salty breeze tousled her ebony hair. Tears welled up in her eyes as the memories of Mama D came flooding back to her.

Selma remembered the hot summer nights when Mama D would make homemade ice cream and eat it on the porch swing with Selma. They would count the stars and wish on every one. She remembered when they walked along the beach. Selma saw a dead fish washed up on the beach. She was just a baby then and didn’t understand what death was.

“What is wrong with it Mama D,” Selma asked? She reached up to her grandmother.

“It’s just gone to another place,” Mama D replied, picking up the small Selma.

“Will it swim again,” Selma asked innocently? She played with Mama D’s hair.

“Yes it will, if you believe in the magic. Do you believe in the magic Selma,” Mama D asked.

“Yeah,” Selma replied, watching the fish.

Just then, the tide came and washed it out to sea. Selma thought she could see it flip and dive down. When she looked out at the ocean now, Selma believed it.

“Yeah Mama D, I believe in the magic, Selma whispered and turned away from the ocean and walking back toward the Boardwalk lights. She heard noise and turned toward it. It came from the near darkness. It sounded like… motorbikes… coming her way at high speed.

Caleb held on tight to Marko’s waist as they tore across the beach. The Pack was eager to feed, or at least everyone but Amy. Amy still ate regular food and was the only one who could go out in the daylight. She served as the protector during the day.

Dwayne pulled up beside Marko and Caleb. He matched Marko’s speed, barely noticing his worried friend beside him. His dark eyes were trained ahead of him. As he drew closer to the ocean, he saw the silhouette of someone standing up ahead of him. From what it looked like, it was a girl. Her long ebony hair waved in the breeze. She looked straight into Dwayne’s eyes as he passed. The girl didn’t look away or anything.

“Marko, I’ll catch up with you all later,” Dwayne called, giving Marko a wave. Caleb sarcastically saluted, turning back to the front of Marko’s bike. She leaned her chest against his back.

Dwayne turned sharply to the right, the back wheel sending a spray of sand behind him. He raced toward the girl he had seen. Up ahead, she stood in the ocean… her back facing to Dwayne. He pulled his bike to a stop and hopped off. The girl turned to him as Dwayne made his way to her.

“Hey,” Dwayne called, carefully stepping up to the girl.

“Hey,” Selma whispered in reply, looking down at the ocean she was standing in.

The tide reached out to Dwayne, meeting his feet and splashing around them. He watched the girl before him. Dwayne could feel her pain, emanating from her every pore. The vampire closed in on the female. He put his hands on her shoulders.

“What’s wrong, senora,” Dwayne asked softly, trying to figure out what was the matter.

When those words landed on Selma’s ears, she cried out. Selma’s hands flew to her ears, wrapping in her hair and tugging. She sank to a squatting position in the ocean. The tears poured out now, dripping and mixing it’s own salty liquid with the ocean. With out a word, Selma scrambled up and ran. She left Dwayne standing there with his outstretched hand.

Caleb climbed off Marko’s bike and melted into the darkness. She stood and watched Paul pull up and park next to Marko’s bike. Caleb felt her breathing quicken to a rapid panting. She didn’t know why she was feeling this way, but she knew she liked it. Maybe it wasn’t Marko she wanted all along… maybe it was Paul. Caleb chewed on the thought, not noticing Marko walk up next to her. He didn’t catch her gaze, for Paul had already moved to a different spot.

“Hey, are you ready,” Marko asked, placing his hand on her bare shoulder.

“Uh… yeah,” Caleb muttered, swinging her attention to Marko. She watched the proud expression cross his face.

Marko’s long, blonde curls blew in the breeze. His hazel eyes filled with a happiness that couldn’t be described. Now Caleb felt ashamed for thinking about Paul like that. One single tear slipped from her eye as she bowed her head. Marko was looking at his leader and didn’t notice it at all.

David stepped up in front of Caleb. The black clad vampire placed one hand under her chin. He turned her head so she could look at him directly. David cocked his head slightly, making sure he had Caleb’s attention. Caleb watched David with sad green eyes.

“Now, let me explain this to you. We feed first, and then you… got that,” David asked, firmly and softly at the same time.

“Yes, I got that,” Caleb whispered, smiling at the same time. No one but David could make something so simple be so gruff.

David released her chin and turned away. His black trench coat brushed against Caleb as he turned. She watched as the three male Pack members gathered in the darkness.

Suddenly, David’s hand shot out. It grabbed the nearest female. The girl was about 19 or so, with long red hair and blue eyes. David ripped into her throat hungrily.

Paul reached for the next female. Caleb didn’t get a good look at her, but had the feeling she was about 20 or so. As Paul tore into her, Caleb felt something in her body stir. She realized seeing Paul do this was a turn on. Caleb tried to hide the new explosion of emotion, but didn’t do so well. Amy caught the reaction on Caleb’s face. Caleb watched in interest as Paul kicked the girl against the wall. Blood slowly dripped down his chin, spilling onto his chest. Caleb had the sudden urge to run over and lick it off, but held it down with barely enough will.

Marko reached out and grabbed another passing female. This one wasn’t young or pretty like the others, but old and shriveled. As he tore into the lady’s throat, Caleb turned away. She couldn’t stand the sight of what Marko was doing, but loved the sight of how Paul did it. This confused the half vampire, but she pushed the though to the back of her mind as David turned toward her. Caleb watched as David approached her. His cerulean eyes fixed upon the girl. Caleb shrank back into the shadows, trying to unnerve the gaze David placed upon her. As he reached her, Caleb felt something in her stomach tighten. It was almost as if her veins were burning. They felt parched… like the dried and crumbling leaves.

“Now… it’s your turn,” David ordered, his voice dipping low. Slight trace amounts of blood were still visible on his face. David’s ivory teeth were covered in it as well.

Caleb nodded and turned away. Her breathing picked up as she scanned the crowd for her first kill. She spotted a male sitting alone on a bench. Caleb though a moment. If she did it the way David chose, would it make an impact on Paul? She decided to go her own way. Caleb made her way to the dark headed male sitting alone on the bench.

Caleb put sway into her walk, shaking her hips with each step. She looked down and watched the short-shorts she was wearing slightly sway. Caleb let herself pour out the pheromone that attracted male and females for mating. The boy’s head snapped up, swinging in Caleb’s direction. His eyes grew big as he watched Caleb approach him.

“Is this seat taken,” Caleb purred, reaching the boy. She leaned heavily on her left leg, thrusting her hip out. She placed her hands on her slender hips, emphasizing them. She flipped her fiery hair over her right shoulder. Her green eyes trained on the boy sitting before her.

“N-no, it isn’t taken… at all,” the boy stammered, scooting over and making room for Caleb. He licked his lips as he added the last piece of the reply.

Caleb giggled a little bit, coming out almost as a whisper. She sat down exaggeratedly, thrusting her butt out as she sat. The boy’s eyes hungrily landed on it. He licked his lips again thoroughly. He watched as Caleb crossed her legs toward him, lightly grazing his knee with her own.

The Pack watched in awe as she brought the whole new concept of ‘BODY LANGUAGE’ into light. Paul felt the sexual drive in him rise, as did Marko. Marko started to shift his weight back and forth, bouncing back and forth between each foot. He chewed on his right index nail. Watching from behind entranced hazel eyes, Marko felt his sexual urge go into overdrive.

“So, what’s a nice boy like you sitting her all alone for,” Caleb asked, her voice appearing sweet and interesting. Her pale fingers made their way up the boy’s bare arm.

“J-just waiting for… friends,” the boy replied, nervously watching Caleb’s fingers dance across his skin. His brown eyes followed them intently, not moving from its gaze.

“What’s your name? I’m Caleb,” she whispered, leaning in close to his ear. Her lips grazed his ear as she spoke. Her breasts pressed against his bare arm as she moved. Caleb made no intention of moving them. A shudder tore through the boys’ body.

“A-Adam,” the boy replied, his brown eyes growing wide. He then got it under control. “Adam Rodgers.”

“Well Adam Rodgers, tonight may be your lucky night. Want to come with me,” Caleb whispered, not moving from her perch close to his ear. She nibbled slightly on his earlobe.

“Oh, yeah,” Adam called, suddenly standing up.

He extended a hand to Caleb. When she stood, Caleb realized she was a whole foot shorter than he was. He had curly blonde hair that was cut short. He looked like Marko, but didn’t have the long train of hair down his back. He also didn’t have that look about him that just made you want to kiss him all over… like Marko did. Adam thrust his hands into his pockets.

“So, where do you want to go,” Adam asked, side glancing at Caleb, heading across the Boardwalk. They passed the building that shadowed the Pack, hiding them well.

“To the top of the world,” Caleb whispered.

She gripped Adam’s shoulders and slammed him against the wall. Caleb stared down into the boy’s surprised eyes before kissing him long and hard. The kiss caught Adam off guard, for a while he didn’t know how to react. He warmed up to the kiss, his hands flying and wrapping themselves in her hair. Caleb made her way down to his neck. Adam moaned and pulled Caleb closer to his skin.

Caleb felt the itching in her teeth as the ivory fangs made themselves present. She felt them lengthening into the tearing daggers they were used for. They scraped lightly across Adam’s skin, sending a shudder tearing through him again. Caleb reared back and plunged her teeth into his neck. Adam cried out and clawed at Caleb. She held his thrashing arms down as she felt the life draining from him. The feeding vampire felt the mortal begin to go limp in his arms, slowly sinking into the brick wall. When she was finished, she let him drop to the ground.

“Stupid boys and their wet dreams,” Caleb growled, looking down at the corpse at her feet. She gave the lifeless corpse a sharp kick in the ribs. The body jumped in reply, the nerves still thrashing at the sudden shock of being drained of all your blood.

A sharp pain cut through her, sending Caleb crashing toward the ground. Marko rushed for Caleb, ready for what was coming next. He caught her before she hit the ground fully. The girl curled into a ball, scrunching up as much as she could. She balled her hands into fists, pressing them into the base of her stomach. This felt like period cramps, only much worse. Caleb raised her green eyes painfully to Marko.

“What is it Marko? It… hurts,” Caleb wailed, allowing one hand free to grip onto Marko’s new jacket.

“I know… I know. It’s your body dying. It will be over in a few moments,” Marko soothed, smoothing her fiery hair down.

Caleb let out a small sigh of relief, then went limp in his arms. Marko picked Caleb up, cradling the sleeping girl against his chest. Marko turned to David, facing him with a little concern. The black clad leader nodded at his friend.

“You know what to do… go,” David ordered, waving Marko off.

Marko nodded and turned, disappearing into the shadows. Paul watched as he disappeared, carrying the reborn Caleb gingerly in his arms. Anger raced through the vampire, with a little bit of jealousy and hate mixing with it. He secretly wanted to be the one to stay with Caleb, but didn’t fully admit it until now. Paul now realized he was truly in love, but there was nothing he could do about it. Paul turned away snarling, disappearing into the night.

Selma reached the dock that served as a bridge for passing tourists. Their heavy footsteps echoed off the sand from underneath. A sigh if relief escaped her. She rested her hands on one of the round support beams. Selma was out of breath from running from that guy on the beach. Selma’s eyes landed on the feet that supported her, and she didn’t like the sight. Her feet were rubbed raw from running so hard on the sand, the first layer of skin almost worn away. She put so much pressure on them that it was as if she really ran on sandpaper as each step hit. Selma rubbed her aching feet, sinking to the cold sand below her. The cool sand meant brief relief for her injured feet.

When the man said what he said, Selma bolted. What scared her was the way he said it. When he said ‘Senora’, Selma ran for her life. She didn’t get a good look at the guy, for it was too dark to really see anything. He could’ve been Rudy for all she knew, sneaking up on her and wanting to take her home again. Then aliens would abduct her, want to make her their queen, and live happily ever after.

“Yeah right Selma, you had no right to run from him on the beach like that! It wasn’t Rudy coming back to get you… he probably doesn’t even care! Quit being such a chicken-shit! It’s time for you to take a stand,” a voice in her head raged, shaking Selma from her trance.

She had to admit the voice had a point. Selma knew she could always count on her conscience, which was a very good thing. Selma decided to listen to her conscience this one time. She stood on her feet, brushing the sand that caked her butt and legs. Taking a deep breath, Selma started to step forward. She jumped back as Dwayne stepped out of the shadows again, startling her.

Marko gently layed Caleb on the shorn mattress that sat against the far wall of the room. This was the room that all new born vampires would wake up in. Paul nicknamed it the ‘New Born Room’. Each of the Pack members was brought her the night they were changed, like so many before them. Marko tingled as he remembered his first time coming here.

[nextpage title=”Part 2″]

Part 2

*It was going to be the greatest summer in history when a huge surf contest was being held. It would give a grand prize of $500 to its winner, plus a new surf board complete with resin for it.

Marko’s eyes looked over the sign with interest. He had never won any surf contests before, but knew he was a great surfer. He practically lived in the water, practicing everyday after work. His hazel eyes lit up when they came across $500 and the new surf board with resin. It seemed a perfect way to show everyone how good he was.

The new Boardwalk lights shone behind him. They reflected off the plastic casing of the information poster. Marko turned and stared out toward it. The Boardwalk seemed to sparkle in reply. Only three days into it’s grand opening and already the whole California state has packed in.

Marko chuckled slightly. His recently grown out hair blew in the breeze, the blonde curls tickling his face. He walked down the planks of the entrance to the Boardwalk. Above him, the sign reading ‘Santa Carla Boardwalk’ brightly lit the way. It’s neon pink, white, red, and neon green lights cast across his face. Marko urged himself forward.

Passing him was a group of three guys. Their gruff appearance is what caught Marko first. They were known as a notorious gang of bikers that led unruly lifestyles. They were known as ‘The Lost Boys’. The group sparked Marko’s curiosity, drawing his stare unconsciously. They wore leather, black, and all the tough things that you could find. The typical biker gang.

The one leading eyed Marko curiously. His cerulean eyes locking on Marko’s own hazel ones. His blonde, spiky hair blew in the breeze. It was somewhat long in the back. As his gaze met Marko’s, Marko shifted his eyes away. He stuffed his hands into the pockets of his jeans. He turned his back and started in the other direction. Marko could feel their eyes burning into his back. He just ignored it, keeping his head forward as he walked away.*

That was when Marko first saw their Pack. It intrigued him in a way that he couldn’t explain. It was almost as if he was born to join them, but that couldn’t be explained either. It was something strange that Marko didn’t want to explain.

Caleb whimpered beneath Marko. She shifted to her left side, tucking her legs beneath her. Marko gently ran a finger across her forehead. Her forehead felt cool against his lips as he kissed her. She smiled subconsciously at the touch.

“Paul,” she whispered, her hand drifting to her neck. She shifted again, this time facing away from Marko.

Marko sat up straight. He could feel his temper boiling at his veins. Marko’s hazel eyes fixed with anger on Caleb’s sleeping form next to him. Using one hand, he pushed the girl away. She went rolling to the other side of the mattress. Caleb didn’t know anything was going on, for she was too in deep of a sleep to notice.

Marko jumped up and started pacing the room. His blonde hair flipped up every time he turned. He chewed on his right index nail. Marko thought about what this could mean. Maybe Caleb was just dreaming about things the Pack had done and mentioned Paul’s name, or she was secretly in love with him. Marko didn’t want to accept the second thought. He turned and swiftly left the room, leaving Caleb laying on the bed alone.

“Don’t worry, I won’t hurt you,” Dwayne softly said, extending his large hand to Selma.

Selma cowered in the shadows, not moving. Her blue eyes watched the silent vampire standing motionlessly before her. Selma felt her heartbeat recede enough to extend her own hand to meet Dwayne’s. As she layed her small hand in his, a smile crossed his face.

“I’m Dwayne, what’s your name,” he asked, not breaking the eye contact he finally made.

“S-Selma,” she stammered, not daring to move another inch toward him. She curled her right hand into a fist and pressed it over her heart.

At Dwayne’s touch, her heart pounded in her ears. Selma felt a little attraction to the taller male before her. She finally smiled, feeling the relief wash over her. A feeling of safety and security mixed with the relief, setting her strained mind at ease. She took two steps forward to Dwayne.

“I’m sorry I ran like that. It’s just… I’m not used to being around other Hispanics,” Selma explained, her head bowing to escape his reaction.

“It’s alright… I completely understand, which is the strange part,” Dwayne admitted, laughing at his joke.

Selma laughed at his joke as well. This one had a sense of humor, not many Hispanics did. It was nice to feel this safe, secure, and happy around another male of the same ethnic background as Selma. A silent sigh escaped her lips, more of a wash of relief. The ball of panic that started to build in her stomach unraveled as each passing second she spent with Dwayne went by. She realized he wasn’t like any other Hispanics she had met before, especially not Rudy.

“So, what are you doing in Santa Carla,” Dwayne asked, his big hand drifting to the small of Selma’s back.

“Uh… it’s a long story,” Selma began, her blue eyes drifting to the ground beneath her. Her long raven hair shielded her face, it also shielded the tears that escaped from her eyes.

Marko sat lounging on the red velvet sofa in the main room of the cage. Laying on his right side with his left hand resting on his knee, Marko rested his head in his right hand propped up on the couch. His anger still boiled at his veins. He took a deep drag off the cigarette in his left hand. The smoke billowed out of his nose and mouth with the same angry movements Marko felt inside. He didn’t usually smoke, but this time called for a cigarette. His hazel eyes were fixed blankly on the firelight, the flames dancing in the reflection of his eyes.

“How could she love Paul,” Marko thought angrily to himself. He didn’t get to finish the thought, for he heard Paul’s wild shouts drifting down from the entrance of the cave.

Marko sat up angrily, the extra smoke quickly blown out of his mouth in frustration. He stabbed out the cigarette on the cave ground. Just as David entered, Marko stood up. David stopped short, his cerulean eyes fixing on Marko in surprise. Paul wasn’t watching where he was going and slammed into his leader behind him. Paul peered around David and widened his eyes in surprise.

“What… things didn’t go like you planned,” Paul asked, laughter ringing in his voice.

“Oh, shut the fuck up asshole,” Marko raged, leaping into the startled vampire’s face.

“Whoa man… what’d I do,” Paul asked, holding up his hands. He backed up a few steps from his angry friend.

“Marko,” David growled, his strong voice penetrating through Marko’s temper.

Marko turned his head slowly toward his leader. His hazel eyes fixed in a trance on David. David shook his head slowly, closing his cerulean eyes. Marko’s upper lip curled back, baring his ivory fangs. With a snarl, he turned away and stormed into the back tunnels of the cave.

Paul opened the door the ‘New Born Room’, where Caleb lay resting. He caught glimpse of the girl sleeping against the wall. The blonde vampire gazed at the sleeping female tenderly. Her fiery hair lay spread out around her head. His trapped love for her threatened to show itself any moment. Before he knew what he was doing, Paul stepped into the room and quietly closed the door behind him. He silently made his way over to Caleb. Paul stood hovering over her, his hematite eyes smiling with delight. Caleb’s eyes slowly opened, feeling someone’s gaze upon her. They set on Paul. She smiled and turned to her right. Marko was gone. She sat up hurriedly, frantically searching the room for Marko.

“Shh,” Paul began, sitting on the bed beside Caleb. “He’s gone.”

“But… why,” Caleb whimpered, the sadness becoming evident in her voice. A blanket of tears built up behind her eyelids. She felt the sadness overcome her once more. “He promised he wouldn’t leave.”

“I know girl, but Marko has some things to work out right now,” Paul explained, resting his hand on her arm. “You’re not alone… I’m here with you.”

“Yeah, you are,” Caleb whispered, her teary gaze locking with Paul’s. She scooted toward the vampire ahead of her. Caleb scooped Paul’s hand up in hers gently. “There’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you.”

“There’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you, but let me go first,” Paul explained. When Caleb fell silent, he went on. “I love you Caleb, and I never fall in love. Those rare times I do though, the girl is always taken. I must have the worst timing in the world.”

“No, no! You don’t because… I feel the same way,” Caleb admitted, pausing to search for the right words. Paul’s startled gaze fixed upon Caleb’s face with love.

“You do,” Paul whispered, scooting ever so further to Caleb. A pained expression, mixed with pure happiness, crossed his face.

“Yes… I…,” Caleb whispered, her face moving closer to Paul’s.

Their eyes locked upon each other. Caleb’s face was only millimeters away from Paul’s. Both were breathing very heavy. She could feel his breath upon her face, sending tingles up her spine. Paul leaned in and kissed Caleb, finally letting out the pinned up emotions. Caleb, also letting hers out, felt the trapped emotions for Paul come flooding out. The tears that were welled up streamed down her cheeks as she leaned into the kiss. She suddenly pulled away.

“Paul,” she said, standing up and facing the lusting vampire. “I guess we’re going to have to be secretly in love with each other and just leave it at that.”

“What,” Paul said, reaching for Caleb again.

“No,” she yelled, pulling out of his reach. She turned her back to him, talking through clenched teeth. “I died… well the mortal me anyway. And when I did, all feelings for you went with it. Now, I’m going to give Marko my whole heart… because it belongs to him. It always has.”

“No Caleb, don’t do this,” Paul pleaded, standing before Caleb. She held up her hands up and backed away.

Neither noticed the figure hiding in the shadows. Marko, hidden by the door, smiled happily at the thought. So, she loved Paul after all, but was going to give Marko her whole heart because she loved him now. A smile crossed Marko’s cherub face.

“Yes… Paul… I’m sorry,” she whispered, her hand flying to her mouth. Caleb turned and fled from the room, not looking back at the heartbroken vampire behind her.

Amy sat on top of the bluff, the breeze blowing her raven hair behind her. She closed her eyes and leaned back, enjoying the feeling of the sweet air upon her face. A rare smile touched her lips, letting itself free after being pinned up for so long. She dug her fingers into the soft ground beneath her. Grains of dirt caught themselves between her nails, pressing against the skin underneath.

It felt to be alone, after being trapped in that stuffy old cave all the time. The only alone time she had to herself was during the day, in which she spent most of her time sleeping. Amy preferred the night to the day. It’s cool air wrapping itself around the stressed female, helping her forget the strains of being in love with a vampire.

David was the thing Amy valued most in her life. Sure he could be demanding, pigheaded, and sometimes even cruel… Amy loved him just the same. She would never stop loving David. With his cerulean eyes, gentle touch, pale skin, blonde hair, and sexual air to him, David could be considered the most desirable man on the planet… in Amy’s eyes. All vampires had a beauty all their own. Dwayne had his superiority and wisdom, Paul had his wildness and craving for new things, and Marko had his romance and kindness.

Caleb came up behind Amy, silently moving across the top of the bluff. Amy jerked her head around expecting David, but to her dismay it was only Caleb. Not that she didn’t enjoy Caleb’s company, she hoped it would be David. She saw the sad look on Caleb’s face, making it appear droopy.

“Hey girl, what’s up,” Amy asked, reaching up to her friend. Caleb plopped down next to Amy, stirring up the air around them. Amy’s arm went around Caleb’s slender shoulders.

“Well, I’m… torn,” Caleb whispered, looking out at the ocean ahead of her. The salty air whipped her fiery hair into her face. She pushed it away with her pale hands. A single tear slipped down her cheek.

“Um… could you elaborate a little on that,” Amy asked, her chocolate brown eyes looking into Caleb’s own green ones.

“You see, I’m torn between two men. I love both of them very much, but I don’t know who to go to,” Caleb admitted, sighing. She let her head drop into her hands.

“What… are you in love with Paul AND Marko,” Amy asked, stressing the word AND. She looked over at the distressed vampire next to her.

Caleb nodded silently, not uttering a noise. Amy sat back, dumbfounded. She didn’t realize it until now, but Caleb had gotten herself into a serious mess. Amy pulled Caleb into a hug, comforting the trembling vampire. Amy rested her chin of Caleb’s head, a sigh escaped her lips. She watched the angry waves thrash about in the ocean.

[nextpage title=”Part 3″]

Part 3

Paul trudged down the corridor. Every fiber of his being dripping with sadness. He had poured his soul into the air, letting it condense and drip into Caleb’s hands, but she rejected it. Paul knew he couldn’t pursue Caleb, and that is what hurt the vampire the most.

He stopped, leaning heavily against the rock wall. His right arm rested against the rock, pressing hard into it. Paul placed his forehead up against it, looking down at the floor beneath him. He stood there, letting his chest fill up. Finally, the tears built up behind his lids and forced their way out. The salty liquid poured itself down his cheeks, like a raging river.

His sobs echoed through the corridor, reaching David who was sitting at his usual perch. The wheelchair David used as his throne squealed as he turned toward the sound. At first it puzzled him, then he realized what it was. Paul now knew the truth… he could never have Caleb, the only girl he loved.

David stood gracefully, moving swiftly toward the sobbing noise. It grew louder as he neared the rear of the corridor. David walked on, his vision picking up the faint silhouette of Paul in the dim light.

“Paul,” David began, stopping a few feet away from the weeping vampire.

“Now now David,” Paul muttered, his voice quivering with sadness. He wiped his tears on the back of his hands, facing away from David.

“I know how you feel… wanting someone you couldn’t have. I’ve already been there, but there isn’t anything you can do about it. Out situations are similar, but in this case the girl you want belongs to your best friend,” David stated, holding his position. His cerulean eyes fixed on Paul’s back.

Paul turned around, his vamp face visible. The torn vampire breathed heavily. He fumbled with the buckles on his jacket. His crimson and white eyes shined with anger. He started forward, storming past David.

“Just because Star rejected you doesn’t mean you know how I feel,” Paul snarled, walking away.

David growled, turning to his vampire form. He lunged at the vampire. David let his temper show itself… emanating with his leadership superiority. Soon David was in the air, holding Paul by the shoulders. David grabbed Paul’s leather jacket, gripping onto his shoulders tightly. Paul was lifted, kicking and screaming, from the ground. David tightened his death grip upon Paul’s shoulders. The vampire below him squirmed and twisted in David’s grip.

“How dare you,” David started, flying at high speed toward the wall. He didn’t slow his crash course down.

Amy and Caleb walked hand in hand down the entrance to the cave. Caleb leaned heavily against her friend’s shoulder, grateful that she had someone to talk to. Suddenly, a loud cry interrupted her thoughts. Caleb looked over at Amy, her green eyes widening in fear. Caleb and Amy picked up speed, hurrying toward the sound.

As they entered the room, they witnessed the scene going on before them. To Caleb’s horror, David was flying through the air… on a crash course into the wall with Paul dangling underneath him. She watched as Paul squirmed beneath him, trying to get out of David’s vice-like grip. David whizzed past Amy and Caleb, Paul’s foot grazing the crown of Caleb’s head. That’s about how high David was flying.

“David… no,” Caleb screamed, her hands flying to her face. They covered her mouth in horror and fear.

David turned toward the girls, caught off guard. He wasn’t watching where he was going… and slammed into the rock wall. A sickening crack filled the cave, echoing in Caleb’s ears. He and Paul fell to the ground in a heap, landing on top of one another.

Amy ran to David, almost tripping and falling over her own feet. She knelt beside the vampire in fear, disgusted at the site before her. Amy’s hands went to David’s chest, covering his heart. Her chocolate brown eyes shifted to Paul. Blood poured from Paul’s head. The force as David hit the wall was so hard… it broke Paul’s skull. Also, a piece of rock was stuck into Paul’s chest. His breath came out in wet rasps.

Caleb ran to the fallen vampire, tears flowing down her pale cheeks. She threw herself down on the ground next to Paul. Caleb picked up his head, cradling it lovingly in her lap. Paul lifted his hematite eyes to Caleb, reaching up his hand. He placed it on her cheek, smearing his blood across her face. A small smile crossed his face, filled with sadness and pain.

“Paul… oh my love,” Caleb whispered, bringing her face close to his. She rested her cheek on his forehead, her tears dripping onto Paul’s face.

“I’m… okay,” Paul started, pausing to gain his composure. Caleb could see he was fighting the excruciating pain he was in. She could see it reflecting in his eyes.

“I… love… you,” Paul whispered, pausing to take labored breaths between words.

“I love you, too,” Caleb cried, her words coming out in a whisper. One final smile crossed Paul’s lips, bringing relief to the wounded vampire.

Suddenly, Paul’s eyes closed… one last breath escaping his lungs. He went limp in Caleb’s arms. His hand dropped from Caleb’s cheek, slapping against the cave floor. The noise would forever be burned into Caleb’s memory. Caleb cradled the vampire to her chest, rocking back and forth. She was crying hard now, crying for the dead vampire she was cradling. A agonized scream tore itself from Caleb’s throat, filled with so much pain.

“Oh… no,” David uttered, sitting up. He hadn’t hit the wall with much force, for Paul took most of it. Amy’s arms were around his waist, and he pushed her roughly away. His cerulean eyes locked on Paul’s lifeless body.

He watched as Caleb’s eyes shifted to him. She looked directly into his eyes. The pained look tore through David, shaking him to the core. Suddenly, Caleb lurched up from her spot on the ground. She let Paul’s body drop to the floor. Caleb leaped for David, her arms outstretched. Her fingers were curled into claws, ready to tear the flesh from David’s body. A wail escaped her throat. Caleb switched to vamp form, her heavy breathing becoming quite audible. Soon, she was upon David, biting and clawing at his face. Her nails tore into David’s flesh, drawing blood. They scraped across his nose, a deep gash developing.

“How could you… how could you,” Caleb shrieked over and over, the words melting into an agonized chant.

Her green eyes flashed in anger and pain, her tears dropping onto David’s face. They soaked his hair and clothes. David didn’t put up a fight, he let Caleb take out her anger on him. Shame filled every fiber of the vampires body.

Amy stood, walking over to Caleb and David. She reached out her arms, wrapping them around Caleb’s waist. Using her superhuman strength, Amy pulled the shrieking vampire from David’s body. Caleb kicked and screamed, thrashing in Amy’s grasp in protest.

“No, no! Amy, put me down,” Caleb shrieked, still thrashing in Amy’s grip. She was still trying to get to David sitting on the floor, his cerulean eyes locked on his dead friend’s body. Amy held onto her friend’s body, making sure Caleb didn’t get free. If she did, Caleb just might kill David.

Marko took this moment to walk in. Shouts from the main room caught his attention, sparking his curiosity. He followed them, seeing what all the commotion was about. As he entered, he witnessed the scene before him. His eyes landed on Paul’s dead form first. Somewhere in his body, something died when he saw the sight of his dead friend.

Marko flew across the room, hurrying to Paul’s side. When Marko’s hand touched the vampire’s forehead, Paul didn’t respond. Marko realized he was dead… no longer on this plane. His hazel eyes went to Caleb, seeing her crying in the arms of Amy. She looked over, seeing Marko next to Paul’s body.

“Oh… Marko,” Caleb cried, fleeing from Amy’s grasp. Amy was pushed roughly to the ground.

Marko opened his arms to the on coming female. Caleb fell into Marko’s open arms, burying her head in his jacket. She cried, her tears soaking the fabric of Marko’s jacket.

“David… killed Paul,” Caleb whimpered, pulling her head away from Marko’s chest to look into his eyes. They were bloodshot, glassy from all the tears that covered them.

Now, Marko cried with his lover, shedding his tears for his friend. Witnessing the sight of his friends crying together, David let a single tear slip from his eye. He pressed his hand against Paul’s cheek, the skin giving away from the touch. David watched his dead friend with sad cerulean eyes.

Caleb took one last look upon Paul’s body, her eyes filling with even more pain. She tore out of Marko’s grip, pushing the grieving vampire roughly away. Caleb raced out of the cave, scrambling up the tunnel. Marko watched helplessly as Caleb ran. Her cries could be heard from afar, echoing into the dark night.

Gabriel walked the Boardwalk, watching all the happy people around her. Her hematite eyes glowed with anger, the wind ruffling her blonde hair. The black leather jacket hugged her form tight, providing some shelter. Her eyes searched the Boardwalk.

“I will find you… one way or another,” Gabriel thought in her Irish accent, thinking about her mission.

Marko sat on the velvet couch, his hazel eyes focused on the fire before him. Tears still stained his pale cheeks, dripping onto his leather chaps. Paul was his best friend… and the first Lost Boy to befriend him.

*The next night, Marko decided to go back to the Boardwalk. After all, he should want to get familiar with the ocean for the surf contest. He packed a pad of paper, compass, and a watch to time the waves. He was going to find out the patterns for the tide waves.

He shut the door of his beachside house, the one his parents rented before leaving for Chicago. His father had to go on a trip, but they left about a week ago. Marko had no idea when they would be back, but that didn’t bother him in the least.

Marko entered the coffee shop, picking out a single booth in the corner. He slid across the red vinyl seat, sitting next to the window. A waitress in a starched pink uniform made her way over to the table, popping her gum loudly. She pulled a ticket book from her apron pocket, flipping it open.

“What can I get you, love,” the waitress asked, pulling a pen from the bun in her hair. Her violet eyes looked down upon Marko impatiently.

“Uh… the biggest cup of coffee you got,” Marko ordered, looking out the window.

The waitress left, walking back into the kitchen. Marko’s eyes caught his reflection in the glass of the window, then caught something else. Outside, the blonde from the group of bikers walked by the window. He paused, his hematite eyes catching Marko. Marko’s eyes met his. The blonde walked on, disappearing into the darkness. Marko looked back at the paper on the table. His pen scratched across the paper.

“Can I sit down,” a voice called out, above Marko.

Marko’s head snapped up, startled by the voice. The form of the blonde stood before him. The blonde didn’t wait for an invitation, but sat down immediately. He crossed his hands over one another, the pale skin glowing in the fluorescent lights of the coffee shop. His hematite eyes sparkled at Marko.

“I’m Paul,” the blonde offered, putting his hand out for Marko to shake.

“Marko,” Marko replied, shaking Paul’s hand hesitantly. Paul smiled, showing a million white teeth.*

Caleb wandered the beach, not knowing where she was going. She couldn’t hear the ocean over the roar in her head. Her heart raced, the blood throbbing at her temples. Caleb hugged herself tighter as a blast of icy ocean air cut through her.

“This cannot be… Paul cannot be dead,” Caleb thought, tears streaming down her cheeks.

Caleb thought about Paul, his wild hair, hematite eyes, kind nature, and the wildness he set off. She cried harder, not wanting to accept the actions of earlier that night. Caleb stopped in the middle of the beach, the Boardwalk off to her right. She sank to the sand, landing hard on her knees. Caleb lifted her arms to the sky, looking up at the stars that twinkled above her.

“Paul,” Caleb called, her voice coming out in a mournful cry. She cradled her head in her hands, sobbing into them from her position on the sand.

Gabriel walked down the Boardwalk, her left hand skimming across the top of the railing. The wind blew her blonde hair in her face, and she pushed it away impatiently. The ocean crashed off to her left. Suddenly, a sound filled the night, carried by the ocean breeze.

“Paul,” the voice called, sounding mournful.

Gabriel’s head snapped in the direction of the sound. She spied a girl kneeling on the beach, sobbing into her hands. The girl’s red hair covered her face, making it hard for Gabriel to see it. She placed one hand on the railing, hopping over it. Gabriel landed silently in the sand. She made her way to the crying girl.

“Excuse me miss,” Gabriel called out in her Irish accent, raising one hand to the crying female on the sand. The girl lifted her tear stained face to Gabriel, her green eyes filled with pain. Gabriel could see the girl had been crying for quite some time.

“W-who are you,” Caleb asked, facing the blonde female in front of her. She waited impatiently for the girl’s reply.

“My name’s Gabriel. I couldn’t help notice you called out Paul. Do you know him? He sort of looks like me, but only he’s male,” Gabriel explained, squatting before Caleb.

“Yeah… so what of it,” Caleb asked, wiping the tears away from her cheeks. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her thudding heart.

“Well, you see… he’s my brother,” Gabriel explained, training her hematite eyes on the surprised Caleb.

[nextpage title=”Part 4″]

Part 4

Caleb stirred silently from her sleep. She could hear Amy’s soft weeping from beside her. When Caleb opened her eyes, they came into focus. She saw Amy sitting with her back to Caleb, shoulder’s shaking from the sobs that escaped her lips.

“Amy, what is the matter,” Caleb asked, sitting up slightly.

“Huh? Caleb, you’re awake? How long have you been listening to me,” Amy asked, whirling to face the conscious female in surprise.

“Oh, not very long. I was awake enough to hear you crying. Why are you crying,” Caleb asked, placing her left hand on Amy’s shoulder.

“Did you know… that David is a vampire,” Amy sobbed, surprised at her own sadness. “Marko and the others are vampires, too.”

“I know,” Caleb replied, looking down at her legs.

“You knew? How could you know and still not run away,” Amy demanded, her voice going up a few octaves.

“I don’t care what Marko may be! I love him and that’s all that matters! I’m going to get him out of this Katherine business,” Caleb exclaimed, leaping out of bed. She padded over to the pile of clothes on the floor. “I love Marko, and I’m going to go get him out of this mess… with or without any of help from you or the Boys! Understand?”

“::Sigh:: Lets go get him out of this mess,” Amy whispered, turning her chocolate brown eyes to the smiling Caleb.

Katherine stared down at Marko on the floor. The unconscious vampire’s breathing was labored. Strips of his skin had been torn away, revealing the firm muscle underneath. His bonds were shorn from his wrists and he lay with his arms above his head. Marko’s curly blonde hair was caked with blood, oozing from his wounds.

Katherine stared down at her hands. Marko’s blood now stained them, all because of her jealousy over Caleb. It was Katherine’s fault things had come to this, but she would never admit that to anyone… least of all herself. A single tear slipped down her cheek, dripping on the floor below her.

She stood, still staring down at Marko’s unmoving body. With a sigh, Katherine turned away. Her emotions were so confused and tied up that Katherine didn’t know what she felt anymore. Sometimes, she didn’t feel anything at all. This was one of those times. Her heart was numb to any emotion. At least, any good emotion. With one last look upon Marko, Katherine disappeared… melting into the shadows.

Caleb peered out from around the corner into the main room of the cave. Her eyes scanned for signs of the boys. She found none. Amy peered over her head, resting her hands on Caleb’s shoulders below her. There was no sign of either of the boys. It seemed the boys were gone, and they proceeded.

Caleb grabbed Amy’s hand and bolted for the entrance. Paul chose this moment to come out of the room he was in. He spied the shadows of Caleb and Amy escaping into the night. His brow furrowed in confusion and curiosity. Paul decided to follow them, slinking along the wall behind.

He watched as Caleb and Amy slipped silently down the beach, heading toward the lights of the Boardwalk in the distance. He knew then they were going to find Marko. Paul pursued the girls silently, hoping they could lead him to Marko’s position.

The cold wind cut through Caleb as she made her way down the beach. She managed to tie her hair up with the one remaining chopstick in the cave. Her outfit wasn’t really meant for what they were doing, but it was all she could find. The halter-top, short-shorts, and leather jacket didn’t really add up, but looked great on her. Amy changed out of her usual deerskin tunic and into some of Caleb’s clothes. She looked awesome with a camouflage bandanna tied around her hair, which was in two braids that hung at her shoulders. The camouflage halter-top, camouflage short-shorts, and steel toed combat boots really made her look tough.

As they neared the beach, Paul crept closer behind them. Caleb felt as if someone was watching her and turned around. She recognized Paul following close behind. She turned back around and sped up, pulling Amy behind her. Amy allowed herself to be pulled. The girls hurriedly scrambled up the entrance steps to the Boardwalk. Caleb ducked into a nearby alley, pushing Amy up against the wall.

“Caleb… what the—,” Amy started. Caleb put her hand over Amy’s mouth, smothering the words.

“Shh, be quiet. We’re being followed,” Caleb whispered. She turned and looked out at the Boardwalk.

Amy followed her gaze and, to her surprise, saw Paul walk by them. He looked around as if looking for someone. Amy nodded and pulled out of Caleb’s grasp.

“How did you know he was following us,” Amy whispered, training her chocolate brown eyes on Caleb.

“I felt someone following us and turned around. I saw him behind us and decided to lose him in all the people. It looked like it—,” Caleb started, she didn’t get to finish her sentence. Paul stepped out of the shadows just then.

“Trying to evade me girls? Didn’t work. You forget what I am. Now… where are you two going,” Paul asked, crossing his arms over his chest. He lounged against the brick wall. Amy and Caleb cried out, startled by his abrupt entrance.

Caleb growled at the rude entrance and stormed up to the lounging vampire. She stood so close that Paul could see the gold flecks in her green eyes. She brushed up against him, unconsciously knowing that this triggered his bloodlust. Paul forced it back with all the will in his being.

“As if you didn’t know,” Caleb exclaimed, throwing her hands up in the air. She back from the vampire, then back to where she was. “I’m going to find Marko.”

“Uh huh, and without David’s consent,” Paul mocked, his eyes dancing.

“Oh, screw David! Do I have to have his permission to go out and look for the one man I love? I’m not one of his god forsaken damn vampires,” Caleb raged, beating Paul’s chest with her fists in frustration.

Paul winced in pain. The startled vampire backed away slowly from the raging female. He was surprised by the girl’s strength. He realized it came from her desperation to find Marko. He wrapped the trembling girl in a hug, glancing over at Amy. She stared silently at her friend, sobbing in the arms of a vampire.

“Don’t worry girl, we’ll find him. I promise you that… I won’t give up,” Paul whispered, looking down at Caleb.

“Thanks Paul, and I’m sorry. I shouldn’t be yelling at you. It isn’t your fault that he’s gone… it’s no one’s fault, except Katherine’s. If I find her… I don’t care if she’s a vampire. I’ll fucking kill her! She’d better not have hurt him. If she has… she’ll have to deal with my wrath,” Caleb promised, talking more to herself than Amy or Paul. The muscles in her body tensed up at the thought. She started to breathe heavier and heavier.

Worried glances passed between Paul and Amy. Caleb stood there and trembled. Anger washed over her, practically blinding anyone close to her. Caleb turned on her heel and stalked out of the alley, followed by Paul and Amy.

Katherine stood on the Boardwalk, her lapis lazuli eyes staring out at the nearby ocean. She leaned over the railing, resting her elbows on the wood. Katherine’s hair blew about her head in the breeze. Her thoughts trailed to Marko. She hadn’t meant to hurt him like that, but she just sort of lost her temper. Katherine seemed to be doing that a lot lately.

She pushed away from the railing and turned toward the Boardwalk exit stairs. She didn’t notice the three figures following her, but then again she didn’t care either way. Katherine was too engrossed in Marko to do anything to notice. All she worried about was getting him back.

Claude looked down upon the torn body of Marko. He lay sprawled out on his back, his mouth slightly open. The jacket he wore was almost torn to shreds from where Katherine scraped and clawed at him. Black was in a puddle around him, but had stopped flowing some time ago.

Claude watched as Marko took labored breaths, not opening his eyes. Claude ran his hand across Marko’s forehead. His smooth touch didn’t stir the resting vampire, but only brought a furrow to his brow. Claude wrenched his hand back as if burned by sunlight.

Paul followed close behind the girls. From where he was, he had a good view of the girls from behind. Paul had the urge to tackle them, tear off all their clothes, and make mad love to them on the beach. Just the clothes themselves were making the wild side of Paul come out. It wasn’t like he had trouble getting laid, but something about these girls made him want to do it just the same.

For a second, Paul didn’t want anyone else but Amy and Caleb. Just the way the moon rays danced across their skin, and the scent they gave off from anticipation, drove Paul to his weakness… sex. Amy’s pheromone drifted from her pores and hit Paul like a ton of bricks. It danced across his senses, taunting him forward.

Soon, Paul was in fang. His crimson and white eyes layed on Amy, and he smiled. Then he remembered what they were doing, finding his best friend who was in need. That was more important than sex. He returned to normal, angry at himself for even thinking of that. he continued on behind the girls, following close to Katherine as they could possibly get without being discovered.

David entered the cave and stopped. It was eerily silent for the cave. He sent his senses out all around him, but felt nothing. In a panic, he hurried up to the room where he had last seen Amy and Caleb. When he burst in, they were gone. David whirled around and ran into Dwayne, knocking the vampire taller vampire to the floor.

“Uh,” Dwayne said, standing to face his leader. “They went that way.”

“What,” David barked, grabbing his lieutenant by the jacket. He jerked Dwayne forward.

“They went to find Marko… without your consent may I add. I don’t know why,” Dwayne growled, muttering the last part under his breath.

“Jealous,” David snarled, taking vamp form. His crimson and white eyes fixed on Dwayne with savagery.

“Just a little. They wouldn’t do that if it were me,” Dwayne grumbled, looking at the floor.

“Oh, yes they would… and you know it. Stop being an asshole and lets track them down,” David ordered, hurrying toward the cave entrance.

Katherine entered the apartment and slammed the door. She let her keys drop to the floor next to the door. As she crossed the room, her eyes landed on Marko. He was still in the corner, not moving. A few tears managed to force their way out of Katherine’s lapis lazuli eyes. She wiped them away quickly.

Katherine walked slowly over to Marko and kneeled next to him. She ran a small hand over his forehead. Her fingers found their way to his golden curls, moving through them softly. Katherine cocked her head and bent down to kiss his forehead.

Behind her, the window shattered. It sent shards of glass spraying across the small apartment. It was as if some force of wind blew it to do so. Katherine whirled and stood up. Her fingers were curled into claws and she was in fang, prepared for the attacker that might come through.

To her surprise, Paul stepped through the hole in the wall where the window once was. His hematite eyes scanned the bare apartment and landed on Katherine, hidden in the shadows. A smile passed briefly over Paul’s lips.

“So, this is where you’ve been hiding? Nice place,” Paul began, moving slowly toward Katherine. He held up his hands, showing no aggression. “Easy, I come in peace.”

“But we do not,” a voice called out from behind him.

Katherine looked past Paul and witnessed Amy and Caleb standing there. Caleb’s eyes landed on Marko’s form. The green in her eyes went to black, widening in anger. With a loud snarl, Caleb leapt for Katherine’s throat.

The larger girl knocked the smaller one to the ground, clawing and punching. Katherine pushed her hands up to defend herself, but seemed to remember she was fighting a human. Katherine went into fang. Her small hands fumbled for Caleb’s windpipe. She dug her thumbs into Caleb’s throat and pushed. Caleb choked and released Katherine slightly. Katherine took advantage of this and threw Caleb into the wall. She landed next to Marko. Her hand slapped him on the chest, waking him from his slumber.

Marko looked down at the hand on his chest and trailed it back to it’s owner. Caleb lay crumpled next to him, blood pouring from her mouth. Her left hand lay across Marko’s chest, but her right arm was cocked at an unnatural angle beneath her. The forearm bone protruded from the skin, obviously broken. Caleb lay unconscious, her breathing labored and slowing with every breath.

Claude chose this time to come out of the bedroom. He witnessed the scene where Katherine threw Caleb across the room. His electric blue eyes landed on Marko. He watched as Marko looked over her and stood up. Claude leaped toward Marko and stopped.

“I’m the head vampire around here,” Claude called, suddenly cutting off his words any further. He looked down and saw the tip of a stake piercing through the front of his chest. Black blood flowed from his mouth.

“Now, you’re a coat rack,” a voice called from behind him. Amy looked up into Claude’s surprised face. A smile erupted her lips.

Claude sputtered, falling forward. He took one last breath and fell to the floor, ceasing to move. Amy looked up in time to be knocked down by the raging Katherine. Katherine stood and paused, as if waiting for something. Her whole body tensed as if urging something forward. Suddenly, a low growl escaped from her throat.

Katherine went down on all fours. Pale blonde hair sprouted over her arms, legs, hands, and face. Her ears shifted and grew from the top of her head. Thick claws replaced her nails, scratching into the floor. The vampire teeth changed into huge saber-like teeth. She peeled back her lips into a sneer. Katherine lifted her head back and let a bellowing roar escape. There before everyone’s eyes, Katherine changed into a snow panther.

The faint gold stripes could be seen on her back and face. The whiskers were golden as well, gleaming in the light. Her lapis lazuli eyes landed on Caleb, laying on the ground. Her eyes then switched to Amy. The girl stood suspended, not able to move. Amy’s chocolate brown eyes were wide with fear, she began to back against the wall.

Suddenly, Amy stepped forward. Her eyes shifted from Katherine to the ceiling. She then closed her eyes, waiting in silence. The whole room stopped when a low growl erupted from Amy. She turned her head and stared straight at Katherine. She smiled, saber-like teeth extending from her mouth.

David chose this time to come barreling into the apartment. He had followed the sounds of a struggle from the Boardwalk. His cerulean eyes widened in surprise as he watched Amy shift into something not human.

Amy lurched forward onto the floor. A shriek escaped as her form shifted. Cracking and crunches could be heard from Amy’s body. A tail tore it’s way out of Amy’s shorts and into the room. Her hands slammed against the ground, sprouting raven hair covered her body. The clothes she was wearing tore from her body, crumpling on the ground beneath her. Thick claws ground into the floor, sending shavings of wood across the room. Amy’s ears disappeared and reappeared above her head. Amy peeled back her lips and let a baritone roar escape. Her eyes landed on Katherine before her. Amy was a Siberian Tiger.

Katherine and Amy circled each other, like two boxers in a match. Amy let her head dip down, almost to her tiger chest. She leaped at Katherine, paws in the air. Katherine tried to duck in time, but wasn’t able to do so. The tips of Amy’s claws scratched across Katherine’s snout. A yowl escaped the wounded panther’s throat. She brought a paw to her nose.

Amy circled again for a second attack, but Katherine was ready. When Amy leaped, Katherine lashed out with her hind legs. She sent Amy crashing into the wall. Katherine caught Amy’s tail in her mouth and pulled. A yelp of pain erupted from Amy’s mouth. Katherine swung Amy in a circle, and she threw the wounded tiger into another wall.

Katherine leapt to attack again, but Caleb jumped in the way before she could get to Amy. Katherine’s claws swiped across Caleb’s chest, breaking one side of her rib cage and severing her shoulder. Caleb went forward, into the outstretched arms of Marko.

Amy watched in horror as her friend lay dying. While Katherine was distracted, Amy shifted back to human form. The naked girl scrambled to Clause. She ripped the steak from his chest. Amy turned to Katherine. Katherine had her back turned to Amy. She lunged forward and leaped. Amy landed on Katherine’s back, plunging the stake into the panther’s heart.

Katherine bucked, knocking Amy onto the floor. Katherine’s panther form melted away, her human form pushing it’s way through. Katherine clutched the stake that protruded from her chest. A howl escaped from Katherine. She suddenly burst into flame, fire burning blood red. With one final scream, Katherine exploded. Pieces of her scattered about the room, stinking of burnt flesh.

Everyone’s attention focused on Marko. He was cradling Caleb in the center of the apartment. Amy crawled to the heartbroken vampire. Marko was only focused on Caleb, not noticing anyone else that was in the room.

David watched the blood pool from Caleb’s wounds. It made it’s way, like a flood, toward him. It spilled around his feet, covering his boots with stickiness. He bent down and ran his finger through it. David brought it to his mouth. He tasted the sweetness of Caleb’s blood and knew now was the time.

He started forward to Marko. David stopped and took off his jacket, wrapping it around the naked Amy. She looked up at him in gratefulness. Her eyes then fell back to Caleb. Tears slid down them for the dying girl. Caleb had given her life to save Amy’s. Amy now knew she had a true friend.

David bent and pulled Caleb from Marko’s arms. Marko protested, pulling Caleb back down to him. David gave Marko a solid kick in the side, letting him know what he was doing was for the best. Marko obliged, still watching his Caleb.

“David… I’m sorry about—,” Caleb started, eyes half open. David layed his finger across her lips.

“Shh, I have something to ask you. Caleb, you are loved by all of us in the Pack… most of all Marko. Will you join us… become ours? We will take care of you, love you, and most of all… protect you,” David whispered, his cerulean eyes shifting over the girl’s face for any sign understanding.

“I… it would save my life? It would make Marko happy and I could stay with him… yes,” Caleb whispered, bringing her hands up and wrapping them in David’s hair.

David tore a fang across his wrist. He didn’t have the bottle with him, but fresh blood was better. He put his wrist to Caleb’s lips. She began to suck instinctively. Her teeth dug harder into David’s wrist, drawing more blood. He felt his power draining into Caleb, changing her. He finally had to tear his wrist away from her mouth. Caleb whimpered, following the wrist with her head.

David soothed the girl and carried her back to Marko. He placed the girl in Marko’s arms. A smile of thankfulness rolled across Marko’s lips. David nodded in understanding, turning to Amy. He lifted the girl to her feet. A smile erupted across his face, reaching his cerulean eyes.

“You know… you could’ve warned me,” David began. Amy cut off his words with a kiss.

“I’m just full of surprises,” she replied, smiling. Amy gazed around at all gathered in the small apartment.

“Here’s to a new beginning,” Marko whispered, leaning and kissing Caleb’s lips. His hazel eyes gleamed with happiness.

David stepped out into the night with Amy at his side. Paul and Dwayne followed, leaving Marko to himself with Caleb. Marko watched as Caleb’s green eyes opened. She smiled, showing her new ivory fangs. Marko bent down for a kiss, closing the front door with his foot. He carried Caleb to the bedroom, preparing for sleep as the sun rose 15 minutes later.