Crystal Falls

CHAPTER 1

There was a bright moon hanging over the high trees, reflecting an eerie, dark-green colour in the evening sky. A cold tremor coursed through her body when she felt something moving around her ankles. She lowered her eyes, and saw a snake crawling around her feet. After a few seconds, it slithered away. She was rooted to the spot, too frightened to move in case it came back. She had no idea where she was, and her eyes darted in every direction, frantically looking for a way out.

The moonlight disappeared, and she was surrounded by darkness. It was so quiet that the only noise was her laboured breathing. Suddenly, a sound from above made her look up, and she froze for a second time. All she could see was a red tongue flicking quickly in and out, and eyes following every move she made, just inches from her face. She wanted to scream, but no sound came out. She felt something closing around her neck, and when she tried to get it loose the grip just tightened. Another snake had wound itself around her neck and was strangling her.

Payton! . . . Payton! A distant voice kept calling her name but when she tried to look around the darkness just swallowed her vision.

Payton, wake up! The voice was more determent with somebody shaking her.

Wake up! Her eyes flew open, and she could feel her laboured breath burning in her throat from unheard screams.

She lay very still in the bed, just looking around, trying to figure out where she was. Her neck still felt sore, and her ankles were numb with a strange needles and pins sensation crawling over her skin.

Are you okay? Jeez, you almost gave me a heart attack. You were screaming at the top of your voice. Melanie looked down at her best friend with concern.

I’m fine. I think… Payton was finding it hard to breathe, but at least the room was starting to make sense. She was in her bedroom, inside the apartment that she shared with her friend Melanie.

Are you sure? It sounded as if you were being murdered.

It was another dream. Nothing new, Payton said, touching her neck gently with her fingertips. It felt as if something really had been choking her.

Melanie brought her a glass of water, and Payton took it eagerly with unsteady hands.

Thanks.

You have to do something Payton. This is getting worse. Melanie said with a worried tone and warm look in her eyes.

I know. And the weird thing is that, even though I know I’m dreaming, it all seems so real.

You can’t go on like this. You know what you have to do, Payton. The guy who handled all that money you got when you started your studies—he must know something.

You mean that strange lawyer that appeared out of nowhere? Payton asked with a lifted eyebrow. She would never forget that man, how could she when he was the one who handed her a cheque out of the blue indicating a trust fund on her behalf that almost made her faint when she saw the amount. It was enough money to feed a small country with for years.

Yes. Melanie simply stated the obvious while she stared at her friend’s quivering hands.

Payton nodded her head in agreement. She didn’t trust the stranger that handed her an obscene amount of money.

You have the name of the bank that issued the cheque, and you have the name of that town. Melanie stated when she saw Payton’s uneasiness.

I know, but that’s all I have. There’s no point in going to Italy, with only the name of a town as a clue. Payton was hoping Melanie would agree with her.

You don’t have a choice Payton. You just finished your residency, you have the time, and you haven’t used a penny of that money. Take it now, go to that town, and try to get some answers.

There was so much concern in Melanie’s voice, that Payton almost felt guilty. It was her friend who woke up in the middle of the night when she screamed and yelled. When the nightmares got to her, it was Melanie who sat with her, and waited until she slept again. They were both orphans and the only family they had was each other.

Okay, I’ll do it. But will you come with me?

I can’t. This is something you need to figure out for yourself Payton. You know your dreams and where they take you. You know what to look for, and what to look out for. Besides, I have to work and pay the rent. Melanie smiled at her but the concern still sounded palpable in her tone.

You’re right. But I’ll still pay my half of the rent. Payton was still apprehensive about it, but the fact that she’d decided on a course of action, made her feel better. She knew that Melanie would always be there for her. Her best friend has been the only constant rock she had in her life.

Payton was dropped on the steps of an orphanage, with a letter stating how old she was, and what her name was. Nobody knew where she came from, or even what language she spoke. For the first year, she didn’t say a word. She pointed with her finger when she needed something, and the rest of the time she just sat alone staring into space.

Melanie was two years older than Payton, so their paths didn’t really cross, except for mealtimes and bedtime they shared in the orphanage. But she’d never forget the night that she and Payton became friends. It was a night just like last night. Even though Payton didn’t talk, she woke up screaming, and there were tears streaming down her face as the nuns came and took her away.

After that night, the other girls teased her constantly, but Melanie felt sorry for her, and they started playing together. For months they played in silence, but then one day out of the blue Payton spoke. She was nearly four years old, and her first words were Happy birthday Mel. Today Melanie couldn’t picture her life without Payton in it. They would walk through fire for one another.

Payton spent the next two days getting ready for her trip. She decided to travel by ferry and take her car. She liked driving and she also wanted time to try to brace her for what she might discover. She and Melanie both cried as they said their goodbyes. This was the first time since they met that they’d ever been separated from each other, and Payton knew she was going to miss her friend terribly. She had to get to the bottom of those nightmares, and finding out about her parents might be the first step.

Payton had been looking forward to the ferry trip, but the weather was stormy and she spent most of the journey feeling seasick. By the time she hit dry land she felt pretty washed out, and driving on the right-hand side of the road took some getting used to. After about two hours of trying to decipher the road map, she decided to break the journey and spend the night in the first small town that she came upon.

She was up early the next day and on the road before dawn. She was driving along the coast, admiring the spectacular view of the sun’s first light over the impressive silvery blue water of the sea, when she heard a strange noise coming from the engine. The next minute, black smoke started billowing out from under the bonnet of the car, and she had to pull over. Stuck in a foreign country and unable to speak the language, she couldn’t even call directory enquiries to get the number of a tow-truck service. Fifteen minutes passed without a single car passing by. Payton decided to open the bonnet and take a look but as soon as she lifted the hood, the air was filled with thick, black smoke that burned her nostrils.

It was an old car she’d bought because it was cheap, and all she needed was something to get her from A to B. She bought it as a student who worked part-time to fund her studies, she couldn’t afford anything better at that time. Her mood sank, and she felt like crying. Repairing cars wasn’t in her budget since she decided to still not use that money she inherited.

Every minute that ticked by felt like an eternity, before a car pulled up behind her. The man offered to tow her to the nearest garage when he realized her predicament. His English was broken, but still better then the few Italian words she knew. The workshop was busy but the bad news was that a burst water pipe had damaged the radiator. Her car wouldn’t be ready until the following day. She was still three hours away from her destination—Blue Rock, and forced to stay at a hotel nearby.

Being in Italy let alone Venice—the beautiful city for romance and poets—felt surreal, but also incredible. After lunch she took a stroll around the area, marvelling at the architecture, exploring little side streets, and taking photographs. There was a spring in her step, and a sparkle in her blue-green eyes, as she forgot about all her problems. Exploring the city like a real tourist was a first for Payton and something she would treasure more then gold. She’s never been anywhere else but London. She grew up there and for the longest time she thought that she would also die there with only the pictures of other countries and cities as illustrated in magazines and television as a reminder of life outside the city.

The next morning, she decided to go to the library while she waited for her car. She wanted to look through the old newspapers from around the time her parents died, to see if she could find anything. All she had to go on was the fact that her birth certificate gave her surname as ‘Welsh’.

After about an hour, she hadn’t found one article or obituary that was even remotely linked to her surname. She couldn’t believe there was nothing about the death of a couple who’d left a baby girl behind. If her parents had lived in Blue Rock, there should have been something.

Her mobile phone rang, and it was the garage owner to say her car was ready. She was just about to get up, when an unsuspected hand on her shoulder left her sitting upright and shocked.

Oh, dear… I’m sorry darling. I didn’t mean to startle you. An elderly lady stood behind her, speaking in broken English with a heavy Italian accent. Her face was all wrinkled with age lines and her hair showed more silver streaks then the sunrise she experienced over the ocean the day before.

It’s okay. Can I help you? Payton smiled back, and the woman pulled up a chair.

My name is Rosa. Are you looking for something in particular? Payton felt a little self-conscious when Rosa stared at her as if she was trying to figure something out.

I don’t want to bother you, but yes, I’m looking for a couple who used to live in Blue Rock about eighteen years ago. Their surname was Welsh. That’s all I know. Payton decided to ask for help since the woman was able to speak a little English, but Rosa’s expression changed in front of her eyes while her face turned pale.

When Rosa saw the young women sitting alone she almost thought she’d seen a ghost from the past. She felt frozen and would have run out of the building if her curiosity didn’t kick in.

Welsh? She repeated the name softly, and inclined her head to the side a little, as if she was trying to convince herself that she’d heard correctly.

Did you know them? Payton asked.

Blue Rock is not a big town. Everyone knows each other very well. Rosa had never expected this to happen. She couldn’t believe her eyes at first but the resemblance was just too great. After years of experience in otherworldly facts and superstitions, Rosa would never have anticipated living long enough to see this young girl all grown up only centimetres in front of her.

Are you from Blue Rock? Payton couldn’t figure out what the different emotions on the older woman’s face meant, but she did understand the tension creeping into the strange atmosphere between them. It reminded her of the feeling one get just before a big reveal.

Yes, I am. She knew she was doing the wrong thing in telling her, but looking at the young woman’s anxious face… feeling her anticipation… , Rosa couldn’t help herself.

You think you know them? Who… Who were they? Payton was on tenterhooks now.

They were both distinguished archaeologists. She answered as calmly as she could, trying to hide her emotions.

Did they grow up there? Payton had a feeling that Rosa knew quite a lot about them.

Petra… She grew up in Blue Rock, and then came to Venice when she started her studies. She spoke very quietly, and Payton noticed that she was looking around as if she was afraid to be seen talking to her.

What about the guy?

His name was Jason. Rosa informed her softly, and Payton closed her eyes for a second. If they were her parents, then she at least knew their names for the first time in her life. Petra and Jason… Somehow it just felt right.

Where did they meet? For the first time in her life she was sitting next to someone who knew her parents, and she felt like a dried-out sponge, longing for every drop of knowledge to fill the emptiness.

I have to go. I’m sorry, but I didn’t know them that well. Rosa stood up and started to walk away, but Payton grabbed her bag and ran after her.

Please, I’m begging you. Payton tripped over the leg of a chair and almost fell, but managed to stop Rosa from walking away.

Why are you searching for them? Rosa felt tears stinging behind her eyes when she saw the pathetic look of innocence on Payton’s face. The young woman looked vulnerable and completely lost.

I think they might have been my parents. Rosa looked aghast at Payton’s hopeful face.

Do me a favour Payton. Don’t tell people that, and be careful who you trust. Believe me, not everyone in Blue Rock will be happy about your return. I have to go now. Don’t follow me, and please be careful. Rosa was serious, but Payton took her gently by the arm.

Just tell me this. Did you know them? Payton’s eyes were watery and Rosa’s heart melted.

You look a lot like Petra. Rosa revealed before she left.

Now that she knew the names of her parents, and that they really had lived in Blue Rock, Payton was overcome with an urge to get there as quickly as possible. She had three hours driving ahead of her and according to the garage-owner there was a tricky mountain pass on the way.

As she drove off, it began to rain softly, but after about an hour the weather took a turn for the worse. The rain started bucketing down and the wind whipped up out of nowhere. She was a fairly good driver, but negotiating the narrow, winding roads in these stormy conditions was very stressful. The road was completely flooded with water streaming down in muddy rivers from the sides of the steep mountain. Payton almost missed the traffic board indicating her turn off. There was thunder and lightning, and the wind was buffeting the car about like a toy. The mountain with the dangerous pass was in front of her, and behind that mountain was Blue Rock.

She was halfway up the mountain when the car started making the same noise as the day before, and she almost cursed out loud with frustration. She knew she had to pull over, but the road was rocky and slippery, and there was so much surface water that she couldn’t see if there was a ditch at the side. When the car eventually came to a standstill, she burst into tears and just sat there shaking with her hands gripping the steering wheel.

Cold, frightened, and with no idea what to do, she turned on her mobile phone, but there was no reception. Lightning flashed through the sky and, for a few seconds, the road and the mountain slopes in front of her were clearly visible. The black darkness that followed, coupled with the sound of roaring thunder, was nerve-racking, and her common sense was telling her that she couldn’t stay there for the night. But getting out of the car wasn’t an option. Where would she go? Venice was more than two hours behind her, and Blue Rock was about forty five minutes away, by car. All she could do was wait in the car, hoping desperately that someone would come along and rescue her. For the first time since she left London, Payton began to wonder if all the bad luck she’d had wasn’t some kind of message. The universe could be warning her to turn around… Rosa told her that she should be careful—that she shouldn’t tell people why she came to town…

Thunder roared around her with a couple of illuminated white lightning flashes which vibrated against the closed windows with such might that she heard herself screaming. She covered her eyes for a moment, but then another noise echoed closer and Payton couldn’t control the shivers running through her body like unexpected electric shocks. She peeked through her fingertips… and froze. Clearly visible in the aftermath of the last lightning flashes—were two huge dogs. Not even ten meters in front of her car… They moved closer, growling with long sharp teeth viciously on display. Payton could feel her eyes almost popping out of her head. They weren’t dogs… they were much bigger. Almost like wolfs. Enormous—gigantic—unnatural looking… Wolfs! Ready to slaughter anything in their way.

*     *     *

Franco poured himself another glass of dark-red liquid before picking up the open file that was lying on the side of his desk. His eyes moved quickly over the names, and the notes that his assistant Ron had made beside each one.

These two… He pointed out two names, and handed the file to the man sitting in front of him.

I’ll let you know when it’s done. Is there anything else before I go? asked Ron.

No. You may go. Franco turned away and Ron knew that he was dismissed.

Ron had worked for this family for many years. He knew what they were… His boss Franco, the head of the family had let him in on that secret some time ago, and Ron took care of a lot of the dirty work when it came to keeping their secret from the humans.

The Drykhoff family were extremely wealthy people with impeccable class and style. They were very secretive, and their small family, which had been around for centuries, was incredibly close-knit. It was almost ten years before Franco trusted his assistant enough to let him in on their big secret. But after all those years, their bizarre ways and means of living were still inconceivable to him. He was, after all, a mere mortal compared to them.

Ron! Look where you’re going. You almost walked me into this wall! He hadn’t seen Rosa at all.

I’m sorry Rosa. My mind was all over the place. He smiled in embarrassment.

Is Mr. Drykhoff in his study? Rosa asked.

Yes he is. I’m off for the night. What time are you leaving? They sometimes drove into town together and seeing the storm outside he felt concerned about her.

I’m sleeping over in the guest quarters. I don’t fancy driving in that storm. Rosa answered and he sighed with relief.

Well, I’ll see you tomorrow then. Ron left, and Rosa made her way to the study.

She heard voices behind the closed doors, and she was about to walk away when the doors opened. Caleb, Franco’s eldest son and heir, was standing there with a waiting look on his otherwise unemotional face.

Come in Rosa. I’m almost done here. He opened the door wider for her.

Good evening Rosa. How can we help you? Franco greeted her.

Good evening. I was actually looking for Miss Stacey, but now that you’re all here…

"What’s wrong?’’ Stacey got up from her chair in front of the fireplace with her attention fully turned towards Rosa.

Everything’s fine. I was just wondering if you’ll be going to the winter house in the Alps this year. Caleb was looking at her strangely, as if he was seeing through her pretence and she knew he probably was. His face was blank, and his dark, yellow-brown eyes always seemed fixed on something, but she could never tell what he was thinking.

Yes, indeed. We must start organising things soon. Franco looked at Stacey for confirmation.

We’ll let you know Rosa, Stacey replied. We haven’t decided on a date yet. Stacey answered and Rosa left with only half a smile on her face. The family usually went on vacation at the same time each year but Rosa knew them well enough to know that Stacey would have confirmed their plans by now. Something was different this year, and by seeing Payton earlier it only confirmed her thoughts about a change in directions.

Rosa wanted to tell them about seeing Payton, but something was holding her back. She was on her way to the kitchen when she suddenly heard Caleb’s voice behind her.

You’re hiding something. What happened today when you went to Venice? She turned around stunned and faced him.

How did you know I was in Venice? Her evasive reply made him frown.

I know everything Rosa. But why are you so eager for my parents to leave? He folded his arms across his chest, and leaned back against the wall, intimidating her with his confident posture and powerful body language.

I’m not Caleb, and nothing happened today. I just went to the library to return some books. He knew she was lying.

You’ll tell me soon. I hate liars Rosa. You know that. He didn’t need to say anything else. Rosa has been with them the longest and she should have known that it was impossible to hide anything. Especially from Caleb.

I saw Petra’s daughter today. Just that one line was enough, and for the first time ever, she saw genuine surprise on Caleb’s otherwise emotionless face.

She’s on her way here, and that’s why I wanted to know when your parents were going away. She had to be honest with him. She trusted them with her life—and owed them her life for that matter, but she knew that Payton’s return was going to be complicated.

Thank you for telling me. Please keep this between us for now. Caleb couldn’t believe his ears. He’d been waiting for news like this for years… But hearing it seemed almost unrealistic.

CHAPTER 2

Ron could barely see the road in front of him. He was only doing ten kilometres an hour, but no sane person could drive any faster in these conditions, on this mountain pass. As he rounded a corner, he had to jam on the brakes to avoid a white sedan that appeared out of nowhere, and almost lost control of his car.

Then he saw lights flashing, and the door of the car opened. A small woman got out, holding something over her head, while she ran towards him.

You’re almost in the middle of the road! I could have crashed straight into you. What’s wrong? He didn’t mean to sound rude, but the unexpected car shocked him.

My car broke down. I’ve been sitting here for hours. Payton didn’t know if she should cry with relief or feel scared. The man was a complete stranger, but he was also the first person to come along since she’d been stranded, and he might be the last.

Get into my car… I’ll take you into town. She had a quick glance inside his car, and saw that he was alone.

Is there any chance you could tow me?

Nobody would be reckless enough to tow you in these conditions. Get what you need, and come in out of the rain. She didn’t really have a choice.

By the time she got back, she was dripping wet and freezing cold. Her clothes stuck to her like a second skin, and she couldn’t stop shivering.

There should be another jacket on the back seat. He turned the heater up a few degrees as well.

Thank you. I’ve been here for hours. She put the jacket on, but it wasn’t much help over her wet clothes.

My name is Ron. I work around here. I don’t think I’ve seen you before? He wondered what age she was. She didn’t look a day older than seventeen.

I’m Payton. My car broke down yesterday as well, and I got it repaired—or so I thought. She rubbed her hands together in front of the warm air vent trying desperately to feel the warmth.

I’d say you got a raw deal. Are you just passing through, or are you going to Blue Rock?

I’m going to Blue Rock, but I’m not sure yet how long I’ll be staying.

My home is closer. You can stay there for the night if you like. I’ll call the tow-truck company in the morning, but for now I think it’s best to get you out of the cold and into some dry clothes as quickly as possible.

Thank you. Won’t your wife mind? He knew she was just trying to find out whether he lived alone or not and somehow her cautiousness left him feeling satisfied.

My wife won’t mind at all. In fact, she’ll enjoy the female company. Our eldest daughter is married, our youngest girl is living in Venice and about to start university, and our son is already at college. He could sense her relief straight away.

When Ron told his wife Erin what had happened, her immediate reaction was one of concern. She was horrified at the idea of a vulnerable young girl being stranded alone in the middle of a storm like that. She ran a hot bath for Payton, and made some soup. Then they sat beside the fire for a while, chatting as if they’d known each other for years. Erin told her about their children and wanted to know about Payton as well, but Payton managed to bypass the personal questions without sounding rude.

Payton woke up early the next morning to the smell of freshly brewed coffee, bacon and eggs. It was still extremely cold outside with rain drizzling down softly.

On the way into town, Payton asked Ron to tell her a bit about Blue Rock. She was curious to know what kind of place it was, as her mother had grown up there. She wondered if that’s where she was born too, and maybe spent the first few years of her life.

The town is almost hidden between the mountains, and completely surrounded by woods. It’s relatively small, with a population of just over three thousand, but it’s big enough for people not to be in each others’ hair all the time. There are a lot of farmers who make their living from tree plantations and cattle, and quite a few fishermen too. Ron sounded like a professor giving a lecture, and she got the impression that he knew everything there was to know about the town.

She was tempted to ask him if he knew anything about Petra Welsh, but then she remembered Rosa’s warning about telling people who she was, and she decided against it.

She mentioned that she was looking for work, and Ron said there might be some evening shifts available at the pub, and that he could talk to the owner if she was interested.

After about twenty minutes driving through the mist, they crossed over a bridge and turned towards the town. There were police cars parked in front of a very old house that looked as if it might collapse at any minute. Ron slowed down when one of the policemen waved at him.

Do you mind if we stop for a second? He got out of the car to talk to the officer, and another officer came out of the house and joined them. Payton’s curiosity took over and she got out of the car and went over to them.

And who’s this? Is she one of Bianca’s friends? The officer looked to be in his early thirties.

No. My daughter’s friends would never visit without her. This is Payton. Her car broke down on the mountain pass last night. He introduced the man as the Chief of Police, and Payton was surprised that somebody so young would have such a position.

It’s good to meet you Chief. She shook his hand politely.

Just then, a black truck with the words ‘Coroner’s Office’ on the side pulled into the driveway, and she felt a shiver down her spine. A death wasn’t something she’d expected to encounter on her first day in Blue Rock.

What happened here? Ron asked.

I’m not sure yet. We had a call from his neighbour last night about some disturbance, but one of my officers came around and saw nothing. When the paper boy arrived this morning, all the doors were open, and… He suddenly went quiet, and looked at Payton.

I knew Bucky well Chief. What happened to the old man? Ron was clearly upset.

It looks as if he was attacked by some kind of animal. It’s ugly Ron. These animal attacks are getting worse. The Chief answered before one of his deputies called him, and he raised his hand in acknowledgment.

Welcome to Blue Rock Miss, and please don’t let this put you off. This is a very peaceful and beautiful place. Then he turned and walked back into the house.

We should go. Ron sounded anxious all of a sudden. This must have been dreadful news for him but Payton couldn’t help remembering the wolves she saw in the road also. An eerie feeling washed over her, but she shook it off and turned back towards Ron.

I’m sorry about your friend, she said sincerely when they drove away from the old house.

The main street in the town was quite busy. She noticed that all the stores had the town’s name worked into them. There was Blue Rock Pharmacy, Blue Rock Flowers, Blue Rock Hardware, and so on. He parked in front of the Blue Rock Hotel—her home until she could find something else.

He helped her with her luggage, and then told her that Constant was working on her car, and would ring her as soon as it was ready. She saved Constant’s number to her mobile phone and then thanked Ron again for all his help.

After dropping her bags in the room, she put on a warm jacket, and went for a stroll. She headed towards the main street in search of the pub. She was curious to see what it was like, since she might end up working there. The wind was whipping up again, and the grey overcast sky reminded her of London.

In front of the Town Hall, there was a beautiful garden with a fountain and benches. She sat there for a while, admiring the scenery and daydreaming. This time last week, she could never have imagined herself here… stepping back into the past to try and find some piece of history that she could call her own. But now that she was here, she felt different somehow. In a sense, she was home, but it didn’t really feel like home—at least not yet.

The rain started falling softly, and she stood up to make her way to the shelter of the veranda. She was just about to start running when her foot slipped on the pavement. She lost her balance and stumbled, but just as she was about to fall flat on her face, an arm came from behind her, and pulled her back against a rock-hard manly chest. The arm held her in a standing position with a tight grip, reassuring her that she wouldn’t fall. Her heart was racing, but as soon as she got her balance back, she felt the grip loosen.

She turned around, only to find herself staring at his chest. The man was tall, much taller than her, with an athletic figure. He was wearing a black leather jacket that fitted perfectly over his broad shoulders. She raised her eyes slowly until she could see his face. Their eyes met, and for a few seconds she couldn’t catch her breath. His eyes were black, so black that she couldn’t even see the pupils. His skin was pale, not like that of a sick person, more like someone who never goes out in the sun. His dark, almost black hair made his skin colour appear even paler. He was staring down at her, clearly doing exactly the same thing as she was. He was scrutinising her, taking in every detail, every inch of what made her who she was. Although his face was devoid of any emotion, he was stunningly handsome. In fact, he was the most attractive man she’d ever seen.

Thank you, she said, finally. He was still holding her, and when he saw her looking at his hand, he let her go and stepped away.

You should look where you’re going. He sounded annoyed, and she frowned.

Excuse me? I mean, yes… thank you. It’s very slippery here. She was taken aback by his remark. Then he turned around and started walking towards a black Ferrari that seemed more out of place in the town then she was.

Come on. I’ll drive you home. He didn’t even look at her when he spoke, clearly just expecting her to follow him.

She was totally confused. Why had he bothered to help her, if he was just going to be rude about it?

Thank you, but I’ll wait it out. She wasn’t happy with his attitude and she didn’t want to be under a compliment to him. He stopped and turned around.

It could rain for hours… it might even get worse. He was standing on the steps with the rain pouring down on him, but it didn’t seem to bother him.

I don’t mind. I’m waiting for someone. It was a lie, but he didn’t know that. The man had just helped her, but she just didn’t feel comfortable around him. In fact, she felt almost frightened of him.

I really don’t mind taking you home. His voice was deep and seductive, but his facial expression was cold. His hair was soaked and his jacket was dripping with water, but he didn’t even wipe the water off his face. Come to think of it, he didn’t even blink. He just stared at her.

Thank you… really, but I’ll be fine. A part of her wanted to say yes, but a bigger part disagreed.

Suit yourself. He nodded his head out of courtesy before he walked to his car. She stood there bewildered, as he started the powerful engine and drove away. Payton shook her head a couple of times, but she couldn’t figure out why the guy seemed so rude. His impressive persona suggested that he wasn’t the kind of man who ever heard the word ‘no’—he was way to dominant to allow such a reply.

An hour passed, and the rain was still coming down hard. She called Constant, but there was no answer. She was stuck on that veranda and all she could do was wait it out. She looked up and saw that the sky was almost black. Suddenly, she heard a roar of thunder and saw a flash of lightning somewhere to her left. The weather wasn’t going to improve anytime soon. Like the stranger had predicted it was evolving.

Caleb watched her from a distance, observing every move she made. He had pictured her in his mind’s eye so many times… his gorgeous angel all grown up. But she was so much more than he’d expected she would be, and that complicated things. Her long brown hair smelt of roses and her skin smelt like lilies mixed with something sweet. Her lips were naturally pink and lusciously full. When she looked at him earlier, he saw the shock and confusion, but also the attraction in her blue-green eyes, and that filled him with more excitement than he’d felt in years.

He’d always hoped that she’d find her way back to them, but now that she was he almost felt afraid of her, scared of what he could do to her. He could go to her and compel her with one look if he wanted but that was not the path he’d chosen.

When Rosa gave him the news it felt as if time had frozen on that fateful day. They’d just got back from Crystal Falls, and he was standing beside the white baby cot again, staring down at the face of an angel. It was the first day of her human life, and the tiny baby captured his heart with just one look. Her mother almost died during the birth, but Jason begged Caleb to save the woman he loved, and he couldn’t deny him, because saving Petra meant keeping Payton. But in saving Petra, Caleb broke the rules, and he knew the punishment would be severe. The elders ordered him and his family to leave, and their house, which had been in the family for a thousand years, was burned to the ground by the mourning witches. Loosing Petra was an impressive blow against them that left them weak and vulnerable.

A few years later, a mutual friend gave him the news that Payton had been sent away. He went searching for her, and almost went crazy when he couldn’t find her. Her grandmother Phoebe had cast some kind of spell to protect her from being found, and to neutralise any powers that she might have inherited from Petra. But he always knew that they’d meet again… she belonged with him.

After many years of living in Russia, they eventually made peace with the elders and were allowed to have their house in Blue Rock rebuilt. They’d moved back two years ago, and since then, he’d been waiting eagerly for her return. So many things had happened back then, but Phoebe should have known better than to send her away and hide her from him, because revenge was always sweet, and the time had finally come.

A strange feeling jolted every nerve in his body. He turned his head quickly, knowing instantly that danger was close. He recognised the blue pick-up truck, and the driver. Caleb could feel the muscles in his jaw tighten as he gritted his teeth, and his eyes turned a golden-black colour that made them look fierce.

The truck pulled up close to the steps, and he saw Payton running down with her handbag over her head to keep the rain off her face. That time, she was careful not to slip.

It took all his willpower not to get out of the car and stop her from getting into that truck. But when his eyes met those of his opponent, the message was clear. The contest had begun, and Caleb had no intention of losing. This time there would be no mercy from his family’s side. This was their home, and Payton had returned of her own free will.

I’m sorry it took so long. I’m Dell, Constant’s son. He opened the door and Payton jumped in quickly. Constant had called her about ten minutes ago, to say that he was still working on her car, and that his son was on the way to pick her up.

I’m Payton, and I really appreciate your help. She smiled brightly, and Dell could feel a knot in his stomach. She was absolutely gorgeous.

How, how long have you been waiting? He stumbled over the words, as the blood started to surge through his veins.

I’ve been here a while, but it’s my own fault for not bringing an umbrella. It’s much colder here than I thought it would be. She wrapped her jacket a little tighter around her, and wondered why he was only wearing a short-sleeved shirt. He must have been freezing.

You’ll get used to it. This kind of weather is pretty normal around here. He leaned forward and turned the heater on. He never used it himself, but he could see that she needed it. As he drove past Caleb’s car, the two men exchanged a look of naked hatred. If it weren’t for the truce they had, there would have been a blood-bath a long time ago.

So what brought you to this small town, if I may ask? He turned into a narrow street, trying to avoid the wet, muddy potholes.

I’m trying to trace some family members. It’s kind of personal. But I need to find a job first and a place to stay. Something in her voice told him that she didn’t want to talk about it.

Ron mentioned that to my dad. I know of a small cottage that’s for rent, on the last block just before you head out of town. It’s very private, and the river runs right past your back yard.

It sounds lovely. When can I go and see it?

I can take you there now if you like. It belongs to a friend of mine. He glanced over at her, and the sparkle in her beautiful eyes took his breath away.

It was only when he stood beside her on the porch of the cottage that she realised how tall he was. He had dark-brown hair, brown eyes, and that olive-brown skin colour of the Italian men who make women go weak at the knees. He was incredibly good-looking, or as Melanie would have said, very sexy.

Is there something wrong? He noticed her staring, and he could see the pulse in her neck beating fast, making his own reaction to her even harder to ignore.

No, not at all. Can we go inside? She bit her lower lip, and that made her look even more irresistible. The cottage was perfect. It had one bedroom, a lounge cum dining area, a small kitchen and a bathroom. There wasn’t much furniture, but it was practicably enough.

What do you think? He was standing in the doorway, watching her every move.

If it’s not too expensive, it’ll be perfect for me. The view was absolutely breathtaking.

Give me an idea of what you can afford and I’ll phone him now. Dell really wanted her to stay there, on their land. He wanted her to be safe. She shyly gave him a figure, and he walked outside to make the call.

When he came back he had a smile on his face. The cottage was hers. He took her to the hotel to get her luggage, and back to the cottage to drop it off, before they headed for the garage. Her luck seemed to have run out when Constant didn’t hover over the bad news.

It’s going to take me at least three days to repair this car. I guess it’s a while since it’s had a service? Constant looked to be in his late fifties with long black and grey hair tied together in a messy ponytail.

I’m afraid so. I should have had it done months ago. She turned her head away in embarrassment.

I know it’s expensive, but it’s really important to get it done, especially for a woman driving alone. He sounded like an angry father, and she didn’t quite know how to react.

You’re right. I guess I didn’t think about that. Is there a car that I can rent from you in the meantime? The only other car she could see was an old red pick-up truck that was long past its best.

You can take the Ford. It’s old, but it’s in better condition than your car. Can you drive a pick-up? Constant saw the hesitation in her eyes.

I can try.

Dell will show you. He walked away, and came back a minute later with the keys.

I’ll take good care of it sir. Payton tried to smile, but Constant picked up a spanner, and she knew the conversation was over. He wasn’t unfriendly, just a man of few words.

Dell drove behind her, just to make sure that she got there safely. By the time they got back to the cottage, it had stopped raining, so she opened all the windows to air the place.

There’s no food in the house, so maybe I could take you out to dinner this evening? Dell sounded just as awkward as he looked, but the invitation caught her off guard to.

It’s just a suggestion. Please don’t feel under any pressure to accept. She knew that he just meant well when he quickly tried to lighten the tension.

I’d like to. Thank you.

For a second, Dell wished that he hadn’t invited her. He was only making things more difficult for himself.

I’ll pick you up around seven. He said shyly with a boyish look inside his brown eyes.

I don’t have any fancy clothes, so please keep it simple. They both laughed, and the tension eased a bit as he got into his car. He sat very still for a moment as he watched her closing the front door behind her. It was only when he heard a soft cracking sound, that Dell realized he was clutching the steering wheel too tightly. Payton was back… She was really here and although it pleased all of them the complications were going to be severe.

Payton couldn’t stop herself from thinking about Dell after he’d left. She got a sense of calm around him with a strong attraction towards his gentle persona. He was the kind of man who featured in romantic novels… the kind of man film directors would want to play the leading actor and definitely the kind of man that was more then able to be a hero.

And then there was the man who helped her earlier. Where did he come from so fast and why had he not introduced himself? And why did she feel afraid of him when he’d just helped her? There was something in his voice and in his eyes that had her mesmerised. If she closed her eyes, she could still feel his arm around her. Something about that stranger had left her with a longing… for what, she didn’t know because all these emotions were very overwhelming.

It didn’t take her long to unpack and clean the place up. When she got out of the shower it was already getting dark outside, and the moon was shining brightly through the big windows. The view of the huge green pine trees and wild shrubs against the stunning backdrop of the mountains was a spectacular sight, and a part of her wished that she didn’t have to go out. She needed time to think, and decide on a course of action to trace her family. The obvious thing would have been to ask the people who’d lived there all their lives, but then she remembered what Rosa had said. The words of warning didn’t make any sense to her, but something told her she should heed them.

CHAPTER 3

The normal way for life is to start at birth and end as a result of an illness at old age or an accident. Most people don’t know when they’re going to die or how it will happen, but for Caleb, things were very different. He could still remember the day he died.

The first year after it happened was dreadful. His whole being, and everything he stood for, had to change. In those days, the rules and the laws were so strict that it had taken him years to get used to it all. Today, the rules were less severe, but the most important ones were still ‘obey or die’. The families stuck together like small communities, keeping their secret hidden in order to guarantee their survival for centuries to come.

Before they came for him, he was happy and successful in his human life, and was considered an eligible young bachelor. But so much time had passed since then, that he found it increasingly harder to remember the simplest things about that other life and what it was like. Today, the only people he had in his life were Franco and Stacey and their children James, Lara and Mack. They were his family now.

He heard his sister laughing and it brought a smile to his serious face. Lara was always so happy. Everybody loved her, even the people in town who were a bit wary of them.

Where have you been all day? I was looking for you. Lara asked smiling from ear to ear and her shoulder-length black hair shone in the warm light coming from the fireplace.

I was in town. Why were you looking for me? Caleb poured another glass of dark-red liquid, and handed one to her.

I’m about to graduate big brother. Will you come to the party?

This is your seventh time graduating. What was it this time—Teaching? He smiled, and she rolled her eyes playfully at him.

I like children. I’ll be a good teacher.

I know you will. I just hope you’ll be able to deal with the bloody hands and knees when they fall and hurt themselves. Are you sure you can handle it? He was serious all of a sudden, and she knew that he was concerned about her.

I’ll be okay Caleb. Everything went well during my temping year. Anyway, being around humans and helping kids is good for our image. She emptied her glass, and walked towards him.

I overheard mum and dad today. They said something about Jason Welsh’s daughter being back in town. Is it true? Lara inspected his face for any sign of emotion, but as usual there was nothing.

Yes, she’s back. I saw her. He turned away, and she knew there was something wrong.

Don’t worry Caleb. You’ll find the words next time. She knew what was on his mind, and he had to block his thoughts from her quickly, before she read his fears as well.

What did Franco and Stacey say? He stood in front of the fireplace just staring into the flames, unable to feel their warmth.

They said they’ll have to tell the elders, but Franco feels you should have some time first to find out what she’s doing here and what she knows.

I don’t know if it’s good for me to be alone with her. Caleb announced softly without realizing the vulnerability his words implicated.

Why? What are you afraid of? Lara was frowning as she stared at his back. Caleb was worried and rattled by Payton’s return more then anyone of them. He had reason to be.

I’m not afraid Lara, but there’s something holding me back. When I saw her today… She’s all grown up, and I don’t trust myself with this new person. He looked around and saw his father standing in the doorway.

It’s because you’re so strongly attracted by her blood. If you don’t control the urge, it will drive you crazy. Franco’s explanation wasn’t what he wanted to hear.

What does that mean? The frown on Caleb’s forehead deepened.

You have to figure it out for yourself Caleb. Just remember who we are, and who she is. Franco wasn’t preaching, but he was stern about his advice.

I’ve never felt this way about another human before. I felt it the day Payton was born. It was a feeling stronger then two universes colliding… But that was such a long time ago. How is it possible for this to happen? Caleb asked back with both Franco and Lara realizing the intensity of the situation. Caleb wasn’t the kind of man who asked for advice at all.

We know her parents, and we know about the strong connection you had when she was born. But what she will be to you now… that’s for you to find out. Franco gestured to Lara with his head to follow him out of the room, and leave Caleb to his thoughts. Franco never mingled in his children’s private lives. He would always provide them with advice and step in only when things would affect all of them or place them in danger, but his hands felt tied when it came to Payton’s return. They all felt the change her presence evoked, but Caleb was the one who had to figure it out.

Payton really enjoyed Dell’s company over dinner. The conversation flowed easily, and he seemed really interested in her life story. She felt so comfortable with him that she even told him about her being an orphan. Dell asked a lot of questions, but he realised she was being selective about which ones she answered. He could see people staring at them, and it made him feel good. She was beautiful. Any man would be proud to have her on his arm. He drove her home afterwards and walked her to the front door.

Thanks again for dinner and for all your help today. The people in this town are really friendly. She smiled up at him, and his heart skipped a few beats.

You’re very welcome. And please don’t hesitate to ask if you need anything. Dell offered politely, but really meant every word.

She was just about to open the front door when he turned around again.

Just one thing Payton. Don’t go wandering off inside the woods alone. There’ve been some wild animal attacks recently.

Am I okay here on my own? A strange coldness came over her when he mentioned the danger of the woods especially since she remembered the death of that man when she entered the town with Ron. Another flash of two huge wolves standing in front of her car during that storm was also something she couldn’t forget. This wasn’t the city at all. She wasn’t in London anymore and this small town possessed dangers of another nature.

You’re safe here on my family’s land Payton. Now get some sleep and good luck tomorrow. He gave her the thumbs-up and she closed the door behind her. Dell had arranged an interview for her with the owner of the pub, and she really needed that job.

As she lay in bed with the curtains open, her mind started to wander back over the events of the day. Thinking about Dell, and the pleasant evening they’d spent together, made her smile. But the minute her thoughts returned to her real purpose of coming, uneasy alarms filled her mind. She was in a strange place with a nagging tension inside her body that wouldn’t go away. To top it all up, the nightmares started again almost as soon as she drifted into sleep.

She was running through dark unfamiliar woods, unable to see a thing in front of her. But she could hear the footsteps behind her, getting closer and closer. When it felt as if she was going to pass out from exhaustion, her legs caved in beneath her, and she fell down on a bed of soft brown leaves. The feeling of not being alone made her turn her head, and then she saw him . . . leaning casually against a tree, with his hands in the pockets of his long black jacket. His black hair was shining in the moonlight and he was staring at her from under his dark lashes.

She was too scared to breathe or to move. He didn’t speak. He just kept staring at her, as if he was trying to tell her something with his golden-brown eyes, but she didn’t understand. He was hypnotising her, drawing her closer to him, her body responding with feelings that she never knew existed. Who was he? Why couldn’t she see his face clearly? Why was it so cold here? Suddenly, the trees and the long, wild grass turned frozen stiff. She looked back at him and a scream of horror came from deep within her lungs. He was frozen too, but his eyes were flashing like burning fireballs and there was smoke coming out of his nostrils . . .

Her mobile phone woke her from the nightmare, and she felt completely disorientated when she opened her eyes and looked around. She missed the call, but recognised Melanie’s number immediately. It was already past eight, and she’d normally have finished her morning run at this stage. But today she’d have to skip it and head straight to the interview.

On her way out, the rusty brown leaves scattered over the grass reminded her of the latest dream. Even the woods around her felt familiar—as if they were daring her to explore into the depths of every dark and secret corner they offered. Payton looked away quickly, but the uneasy feeling didn’t go away. Not even with her back turned towards the daunting woods.

When she opened the door of the pub, she found herself in a big, wide room with a wooden floor. The enormous, shiny bar took up the whole side of one wall, and at the back of the room there were a few pool tables and a couple of pinball machines. A cleaner was busy mopping the floor, but he flashed a grin in her direction only to be polite. Two swinging doors behind the bar opened with a dashing noise when they hit the walls on each side. An elderly man entered through them with his attention immediately fixed on her.

You must be Payton? I’m Benjamin, the owner of this humble little pub. He smiled pleasantly at her, and held out a hand in greeting. The first thing that Payton noticed was the great shape that he was in. He must be around the same age as Dell’s father, but he looked fit and more athletic.

Good morning sir. I’m Payton—Payton Welsh. Thank you for seeing me. She shook his hand and felt the warmth of his skin against hers almost shocking.

Just call me Benjamin. We’re not very formal around here. Dell tells me you’ve come from London. What brings you here? He pulled out a chair for her, and sat down beside her.

I’m trying to trace some family, so I don’t know how long I’ll be here, but I promise I won’t disappear overnight. Her answer was as honest as she could be without giving him too much information.

You’re very young to be travelling this far alone. What form of experience do you have? His English was very good apart from the heavy Italian accent and Payton found that comforting.

I just finished my residency as medical student, studying on scholarship and loans, so I have to work to pay the bills. During term I work as a waitress at night, and during the holidays I temped at a clinic in London. Working hard has always been something Payton felt proud over, and she could see that Benjamin appreciated that.

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