 
Annie Nadine (Soul Snatcher) 305

Soul Snatcher

Annie Nadine

This book was self-published by the author Annie Nadine Cecil.

Copyright © Annie Nadine

All rights reserved.

The right for Annie Nadine Cecil to be identified as the author of this work has been asserted by her under the Copyright Amendment (Moral Rights) Act 2000.

The moral right of the author has been asserted.

This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced, copied, scanned, stored in a retrieval system, recorded or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher.

Cecil, Annie Nadine.

Soul Snatcher / Annie Nadine.

PROLOGUE:

ITALY

1803

On a cold and lonely night in a rundown inn, two seemingly normal men sat at the bar on stools stained with blood and liquor. The rickety, old establishment fell by the wayside and well off the beaten path. It was run down but well-liked by the local drunks. The place was surrounded by trees because this part of town hadn't been developed yet and it was well hidden, allowing the patrons a certain amount of privacy. The customers were particularly rowdy and most of the rooms in the brothel upstairs were full.

Badenoch sat at the bar with a drink in his hand. The glass was dirty, just like the place itself and the people in it. He preferred to go by his nickname, Baden and he had worked very hard so no one knew his actual name. He hated his given name, it just reminded him of his past back in England.

His hair appeared coal black but if you looked closer it shimmered midnight blue. He kept it shorter than most men because he didn't want to resemble the people around him in any way. His eyes were the clearest azure, a striking contrast compared to his dark hair. His skin was flawless and pale, his face rough but perfect and his body was strong and sturdy. He was dressed in simple black trousers, a ragged grey coat and a white peasant shirt, not tucked of course because he didn't care what anyone thought of him. He wanted to be nothing but a lingering nightmare that haunted anyone who came across him. His towering height made him all the more imposing and helped to accomplish his tormenting wake.

Baden didn't like to draw attention to himself more than he had to, he preferred his solitude above all things. Which is why he felt uncomfortable as he sat silently next to his companion, Oliver.

Oliver was someone who loved attention and would do almost anything to get it. He scoped the room full of outcasts and the unwanted, looking for an easy target. He was indolent that way, he was strong enough to choose anyone but he would always pick the weakling. But anyone was lucky if they caught his attention opposed to Baden's. Baden was not someone you wanted noticing you, no matter how tempting he was.

Anyone who saw them together would think the two men were bothers because of the similarities in hair colour and mannerisms, Baden hated that. But they were far from it, the only thing they had in common was _what_ they were.

A young, drunken woman, who worked at the brothel, had just finished with her last client and stumbled up to Baden in hopes that he would be her next. Her dress had a plunging neckline that accentuated her abundant assets, helping to assist in her particular occupation. She fell against him suggestively as he sipped his drink but he ignored her efforts. He could smell her soul and it was nothing but decay and desire wrapped in self-loathing and it made him feel sick. He hated the stench of people's souls and being able to sense them only strengthened his resolve to dispose of the ones he despised the most.

You see, Baden and Oliver were different to many around them. But Baden, he was special even among his own kind. He was renowned by others like him and all they wanted to know was, why was he so different? But no one had the answer, not even Baden. He was an outcast from every other and he didn't even know who to blame for it. So the blame fell on everyone just as his hatred did, fuelling his degraded opinion of the human race further.

"Get away from me," he said quietly without looking at the lady of the night.

"But Sir..." She said trying to sound appealing as her accent rolled around the words. But all he could smell was her soul and it was almost smothering him. She walked her two fingers up his arm towards his collar but he grabbed her hand before it made it to its destination. He calmly turned his head and looked at her with those cold, blue eyes. Eyes that had not shown any emotion other than hate in two years.

"Do...not...touch...me," he growled, enunciating each word.

The bar was loud around him and no one noticed his treatment of her, not that anyone would care if they had. He started to grip her hand tighter and she couldn't keep the pain from playing across her face. Her eyes brimmed with tears but she knew better than to make a sound, if she was caught up in any trouble she would be fired. When he could sense the fear in her he shoved her hand back towards her and she took a few steps back as she cradled her hand to her chest. He had broken one of her fingers but he didn't care, in fact he was almost glad. He stared at her until she went running back upstairs to her room.

"Baden," his friend scolded. Oliver placed a hand on Baden's shoulder but he shoved it off, walking out into the night without saying a word. Oliver rolled his eyes, he was used to his brooding friend's moods and wasn't concerned in the slightest.

Baden stood outside regarding his surroundings, seeing nothing but trees. Now that he had finally decided to leave he just had to choose where to go. He was especially tense on this particularly cold night. It had been exactly two years since he had seen anyone from his past, since he had been changed. He pulled his collar high around his neck and dug his hands deep into his pockets, chilled by the memories that plagued. Even though he had been changed into an eternal creature he still felt human in ways. Most of the sensations of humanity were still there in creatures like him. Feeling cold or hot, smell and taste...pain. But it was all intensified in his changed form. Others like him could still be injured, and even killed by certain methods, but he was different to even them. His life had been altered in one moment of stupidity and now he made others pay the price for that.

He took in a deep breath of the cold air to sense what was around him, nothing but forest and the subtle odor of the city in the distance that was crawling with humans. The wind blew eerily through the trees but it did not make him feel uneasy because he was the one everyone should be afraid of.

"Baden!" Oliver called out in fun as he stumbled from the inn. Oliver draped himself over his friend's shoulders playfully but Baden didn't move, he stood looking at this fiend he had picked up along his travels with distaste written all over his face.

"You drink yourself stupid every night like the other miscreants here," Baden said as he pushed Oliver away from him.

"And you are such a rotten sport," Oliver slurred, not offended in the slightest. He paused for a moment and looked around, only just realising that it was cold outside. "Give me your coat!" He demanded in a silly, drunken fashion. Baden stared at him with his usual hatred and Oliver knew not to push him. "What is your problem?" He asked.

They stood for a moment in silence, hearing nothing but the breeze. Baden didn't want to bring up his past, he never let himself be vulnerable to anyone. When his story had been found out it spread like wildfire but when he started killing anyone who spoke of it around him everyone soon got the idea to shut their mouths, in front of him at least. But Oliver was never one to use good sense, so after remembering the date and putting all the pieces together he blurted out his suspicions.

"Oh...I see..." Oliver nodded his head in realisation as he folded his arms across his chest to fend off the cold. "You are sulking about what happened back in England...all those years ago."

"I suggest you and I go our separate ways, Oliver," Baden said watching the trees off in the distance. Oliver stood there completely taken aback by his words.

"Stop being absurd," Oliver brushed it off as nothing, refusing to believe it. Baden finally looked at him to show how serious he was.

"You are just like every other person I hate." Baden kept his voice low and controlled. He could feel Oliver's anger mounting but he wasn't afraid. When the silence grew between them Baden decided there was nothing left to say so he turned to leave.

Oliver stood there seething. He wasn't just going to let him walk away, after everything he had done for Baden. He ran after him, brutally grabbing him from behind. He shoved him into the closest tree to restrain him and the whole tree shuddered from the impact, causing a sea of leaves to drift down on the icy breeze. Oliver grabbed him around the neck with one hand and used his body to hold Baden against the tree.

"I made you everything you are today," Oliver hissed. "Your name is known because of me and you are not just walking away from everything I have made." Baden could feel Oliver's desire for recognition and fame. Oliver resented Baden because he had the power and reputation that he had always wanted for himself.

But Oliver's protest was useless. Baden was faster and stronger than Oliver, he was stronger than everyone he had come across, and he had had enough. He grabbed Oliver's arm and broke it in two places before Oliver even realised what was happening. He didn't have enough time to gather himself together before Baden shoved his chest to push him away then kicked his legs out from under him. He had pushed him so hard that two of Oliver's ribs were broken from the violent outburst.

"I am sick of being your pet, Oliver," Baden said as he stood over him. Oliver looked up from where he lay on the ground and tried to move his arm, waiting for it to heal. His ribs were stinging but they were well on their way to being restored. "If you try to find me again you will be in a far worse state than you are now," Baden threatened before he turned and started walking away.

"I know who made you like this," Oliver called out. He was trying to desperately bargain back his control, knowing that Baden had been trying to find who had changed him. "She told you her name was Mary but she has another name..."

Even though Baden could sense truth in Oliver's words he still didn't believe him. Anyone can believe their own lies, this was just another way that he was trying to force Baden to stay. So he walked away into the cold night, the light from the tavern passing over him as he walked by. The commotion of the inn quickly faded into the darkness as he left. He heard Oliver reluctantly rejoin the crowd and Baden couldn't help the relief that he felt, knowing that he would never have to see Oliver again.

Baden wandered through the night aimlessly. He wasn't sure where to go but as his hatred festered he was beginning to form a plan in his mind. Before he could come to any solid ideas a fierce wind picked up suddenly, blowing his coat and hair out of control. Before he could take cover, it vanished just as quickly as it had appeared. He paused when he realised someone else was now present.

"Baden," a woman's voice said harshly through the night.

He turned around to see a woman standing amongst the trees close by. Her hair was so blonde it was not only close to white but it looked as if it was glowing. Her skin was pale, almost like ice and had a slight silver shimmer to it. Her features were sharp and commanding, her eyes so blue they looked close to ice-white. The stern set of the stranger's jaw was unnerving and for a moment he felt as if he was inferior, like she was judging him. There was something he didn't like about her...she reminded him of his cantankerous aunt who used to reprimand him as a child. He had never liked her and he was already starting to feel quite the same about this woman.

She wore what looked like a long, shapeless coat with the sleeves falling loosely to her wrists and the length flowing all the way to her feet. The colour was silver but had a white lining running along the seams and it was almost as if it was made from the stars itself.

It looked like she came from a different place than humans did altogether. It didn't seem like she _had_ a soul, it was as if she _was_ a soul that was shaped like a human. There was no good or bad part of her from what he could see, she just existed and nothing more. She certainly wasn't human but he had no idea what she was and he could sense straight up that she wasn't impressed with him in the slightest. In fact, it almost felt as if she despised him already. The feeling was mutual.

"Who are you?" He asked, thinking this woman was already starting to annoy him. He could tell she was aged though her face was ageless.

"I am known as, Aliyah," she answered. She spoke with no emotion and she gave off the feeling that she was in control but entirely uncomfortable with being there. Most of all, Baden could tell she wasn't afraid of him. "And I have come to strike a bargain with you."

"And what type of bargain is that?" Baden wasn't in the mood for this. She stood there emitting her aversion to him and he did the same to her. As far as he was concerned she could just join the queue of people who found him abhorrent.

"It has come to our attention that you are creating quite a disturbance here and we are required to arbitrate..." she began to say but was cut off.

"Who is 'we'?" He asked bitterly. He wasn't impressed with the idea of being watched.

"That is none of your concern!" She snapped at him. She didn't like Baden in the slightest but she was chosen to be the one to confront him because she was part of the few who created him. But something had gone wrong and now it was her job to fix it. "There is much you do not know and I am here to negotiate your assistance." Baden almost laughed at her.

"And why would I help you?" He sneered.

"There are many reasons to help someone..." She paused as she looked at him, almost as if she was disgusted. "But from what I can tell of you, you are someone who thinks only of himself." Even though it was true Baden was still offended. "So name your price..." He looked at her for a moment and could sense that she had the ability to do more than just give him money, which he didn't need. She had the power that he could use for his revenge.

"Kill the one who made me," he asked.

"That is out of my control," she shot back instantly.

"Kill the one who betrayed me," he threw at her. She abruptly tilted her head to one side, as if she was trying to understand his strangeness.

"I can offer more than revenge, Baden...I can offer you redemption," she countered. This time he did laugh.

"Listen _Aliyah_ ," he said her name with disdain. "I may not know what you are but I can sense enough to tell that you would be able to see my soul," he reasoned. "And I would wager there is nothing in there that makes you believe that I would want anything other than revenge."

Aliyah took a breath, trying to hold back her anger. She hated dealing with beings in this realm and this was adding to her many reasons why. She had been told he would refuse to change his ways and that is exactly the reason why they had already put a different plan in motion. A plan that would change Baden entirely, whether he liked it or not. The only reason she had attempted to intervene was to abide by the laws she was bound by.

"If this is what you choose then you have just made your life more difficult than it needs to be," she said through gritted teeth.

Before he could say anything else the wind picked up again, blowing dirt into his eyes. He closed them abruptly, brushing his eyes free of the dirt as quickly as he could. When he looked up again she was gone.

"Good riddance," he whispered to himself. He continued his trek into the darkness alone, not even fazed by what had just happened. He may have just encountered a creature completely foreign to him for the first time but, if his life had taught him anything, it was easier not to care. Anyone else would be unnerved that an unearthly being had just threatened them but not Baden. He only had room for one emotion and that was enmity.

Finally he was alone, separated from everyone else like he always wanted to be. The foolish belief that his future was now in his own hands was sinking deep into his bitter soul but it didn't fill him with peace, it only filled him with more hatred than before. Hatred that had already wreaked havoc on so many lives and was set to do the same to so many more.
**CHAPTER 1**

**ENGLAND** **  
** **August 1804**

As the afternoon grew old, the sun was gently warm as it shone brightly, almost happily as it caressed the earth. Not a cloud was in sight for miles and it was the most perfect of days. Just the type of perfect day to change everything...

Baden's blue eyes saw her from across the way. He stood undetected in the crowd of people, unrecognised though once known in this area. Or was it that no one was brave enough to look at him? He observed her as she went about her daily chores. He kept his distance purposefully, for the first time hoping he could stay away. He remained where he was and watched.

The markets were full of people and their hurried feet on the cobbled stone walkways, mixed together with the hagglers at the small stalls, made everything all the more confusing. The stalls that lined the streets had everything ranging from poultry to vegetables to jewellery. The stall owners looked a little scruffy but tidy none the less, as they called out to the people passing by. Hard workers yet hardly paid. Their presence annoyed the owners of real stores that lined the walkways because it sometimes caused their customers to avoid walking past and was bad for business. But amongst all the chaos was the young woman that Baden had been watching.

Annie stood in the crowded markets collecting the food items she had been instructed to retrieve. There was something altogether quite special about this girl. There was something exceptional about her soul that not even she was aware of. It would bring her all kinds of attention, the question was; would it be to her benefit or detriment?

She was the lovely age of nineteen and she was beautiful. Her hair fell in soft curls to her waist and was elegantly black, shining when the sun kissed it. She was slightly taller than most girls with lovely curves. Her face was delicately feminine, with skin all peaches and cream and hazel eyes. Usually when she was back at the manor she wore her hair atop her head but when she was away she wore it down, just as she did now. Simplicity was something she valued but it was becoming scarcer by the minute everywhere she looked, she was just glad that her life didn't feel as frenzied as the markets did.

The blue dress she wore was modest. A simple empire line accentuated her ample bust with a black, plaited leather cord running along the trimmings and a flattering curved neck line. The dress hung freely to the ground and covered her flat slippers.

A sudden gust of wind blew through the markets, creating havoc where things were not weighed down. Stall owners wildly grabbed at their possessions, trying to maintain as much order as possible. And just as quickly as the breeze arrived it disappeared just the same, everyone none-the-wiser of the visitor that had just left to another place entirely. They had come to see that their plan had commenced and left to inform the others that it had.

People took the gust as a warning of a coming storm so they began to rush around frantically, trying to buy their items and leave as soon as possible. Annie moved to avoid the scurrying crowd but she still managed to run into someone. Her basket was almost full with vegetables and some of the contents fell to the ground.

"I do apologise," Annie said to the stranger as she bent down to retrieve her items. She hardly even glanced at whoever it was before she bent down and started quickly picking up the vegetables. She brushed the muck off as best she could, thinking that it would have to do. She hoped the lady of the manor would not inspect her food too closely.

To her surprise the man bent down and started to help her. She peeked up just enough to see that this man was well dressed and that meant well to do. The crowd moved around them, occasionally bumping into them and throwing a disgruntled look their way. After they had salvaged most of the food they both stood clasping the basket.

"Thank you for being so kind," Annie said as she looked to the ground. She wasn't meant to interact with anyone and she dare not be late back to the manor, the consequences weren't worth the risk. Lately, the lady of the manor would be easily exasperated for seemingly no reason, especially when it came to Annie.

"No, it was I who moved in your way," the man insisted, trying to take the blame. He remained silent for so long that Annie couldn't help but look up.

He had blonde hair that sat a little longer than most and had a slight wave to it, making it flick out in random places. His skin was tanned, his eyes were beautifully dark and he stood taller than her. He kept a rather polished, meticulous look that made him seem very in control of his life. She realised she was gawking so she looked back to her basket. She needed to take the hamper back but she thought it might be rude to tug at it. She hesitated, unsure of what to do. Finally she decided just to ask, after all it was her basket.

"Sorry, Sir. I hope you do not find this rude but may I have my basket back?" She asked as politely as she could. He smiled just a little at her manner.

"May I exchange your name for it?" He bargained. She paused for a moment but saw no harm in the deal, as long as it helped her get on her way faster.

"My name is, Annie," she answered and he let go of the basket as promised. She took it and let it hang by her side, feeling a bit awkward with this stranger. The crowd was still surging around them and managed to push them closer together, so close that it was almost inappropriate. She looked up at him with a shy smile before she moved to leave through the crowd but he followed after her.

"Annie...that is quite a lovely name. Are you not curious as to what mine might be?" He asked as he walked beside her, both of them weaving around people. She really didn't have time for this but she didn't want to be impolite either, especially to someone with money who could get her into trouble. Pushing away her urgency she said the first thing that came to mind in her rush.

"If you wish to give away more than you have bargained for then feel free, Sir." Annie was heading towards her waiting chaperone, her best friend of many years, Micah Amerson. He had a single horse for them both to ride home. Annie and Micah worked in the same manor and had become fast friends a few years ago when they had started working together. The man following after her smiled at her cheekiness, she was sassy and he liked it.

"Well, you drive a hard bargain, Annie. My name is Eli." He tried to have fun with her but she was too focused on the task at hand. Before they reached the end of the crowd she stopped and turned to him. She completely missed the fact that he was flirting with her.

"I do not wish to be rude but I must be off. I am due back and must get this food where it belongs. It was a pleasure to meet you Eli, good day." Usually she wasn't that abrupt with anyone but she was truly starting to become alarmed at the time. She had to get back or it would mean trouble for not only her but Micah also.

After a small respectful nod she ran to Micah before she could be held up any longer and they rushed back to the horse together. He looked back over his shoulder towards the man he had seen speaking with Annie to try and get a good look at him but it was hard to see through the crowd, which he found irritating. Who did that man think he was, talking to Annie?

Once they were at the horse he focused solely on her, helping her into the saddle before he jumped up himself. Annie sat on his lap whilst they rode, as she always did, legs to one side of the horse as she leaned into his chest. She nestled the basket close to her, being careful so as not to drop it.

Micah was a little thinner than some but strong enough, with a handsome face. His hair was brown and neat, his eyes were dark green and he had a smile that could light up a dark night. He was the stable boy at the manor, though not resembling a boy in any way with his strong, adult face. He always managed to find time to spend with her even if Miss Danes was unreasonable.

"Who was that?" He asked as they rode away, trying his hardest not to sound like he cared. She was so preoccupied trying to manage the basket that it took her a moment to realise what he had said.

"Oh, that was Eli. I just met him in the markets," she answered not realising her friend's jealous tone.

"Maybe I should come into the markets with you next time?" Micah suggested. Annie could be naïve at times but only when it came to men. The reason simply being, she really didn't have much to do with them. Micah was the only man she interacted with on a daily basis and he was vastly different to most men she might come across.

"You are so silly, Micah," Annie said through half a laugh. She spied some muck on the vegetables and went to work immediately, trying to brush off left over dirt from them as they bounced along the path on their horse.

"And you are too darling," he complimented, holding back the urge to touch her face. Annie and Micah were always open with each other, showing their affection easily. But recently it had turned into something a little more than friendship, for Micah at least. He just wasn't sure how she felt.

Back at the manor Annie hurried inside as Micah followed close behind. The manor was large and lavish. It housed the servant's quarters at the back, where the kitchen was. The upstairs had six bedrooms and two other rooms that were converted into a bathroom of sorts. Huge baths had been imported from France and sat right in the middle of the rooms, with partitions for dressing and basins just to wash your face. Huge ornamental mirrors hung in all the rooms. The downstairs had a library, dining room, two parlors, and a sun room. The floors had expensive rugs in every room but they matched the dark wood on the floor so visually they were almost useless.

The banisters were the same dark, lustrous wood as the floor. The walls were a dark, murky green, which Annie thought was quite ugly. The curtains were heavy and imposing in the rooms, which were overcrowded with overgenerous furniture. They framed the huge windows in every room and their red-brown colour matched that of the skirting that lined the doorframes, ceilings and floors throughout the house. The furniture was of course the most sophisticated of the time, keeping to the dark greens and brown colour scheme.

Needless to say, the only rooms that weren't over decorated were the servant's. They sat off near the kitchen, housing a room for the gardener, chamber maid, cleaners, butler, Micah, Rosemary and herself (who were both the cooks).

Annie and Micah came rushing through the kitchen door, half expecting to be scolded for their lateness.

"Oh, Annie. We must pull your hair up. Her guest will be here any moment and you are set to serve," Rosemary said as she flustered about the kitchen when Annie walked in.

Rosemary was an older woman who had welcomed Annie into the manor. She was head of the help and organised them daily but she preferred to stay in the kitchen with Annie most of the time. Her dark hair was peppered with grey and she had smile lines at the edge of her brown eyes and soft mouth, even when she wasn't smiling. It made her look altogether friendly and charming.

"I am sorry. I was caught up by a man at the market," Annie explained as she pulled her hair back as best she could whilst Rosemary tied an apron around her. Rosemary was much shorter than her and it always made Annie smile, thinking how sweet her friend was.

"We may need to send Micah in next time, it could well be faster," she joked, knowing the effect Annie had on men. What made it more amusing was that Annie never seemed to notice or care what men thought of her. She wasn't interested in a relationship, she was more than happy to be single. "No matter, you serve in ten minutes." With enough said Rosemary went to organise the rest of the help as Annie finished up in the kitchen.

"Annie, you do need to be more careful in the future when it comes to men," Micah warned. Annie fluttered about setting out the tray for Martha Danes and her guest. His remark brought back memories of her father but she pushed them away immediately.

When Annie was sixteen Miss Danes had taken her in after her father had run away with another woman and her mother had passed away from tuberculosis not long after. Her past was something that she tried to forget because she was someone who liked to look at the bright side of life. In most people she looked at the good and could easily look past a person's flaws to see their value but that was much more difficult when it came to her father. She would do almost anything to have her mother back but that wasn't possible so she never entertained the idea. Instead she had latched onto her new life and her new friends, picking up the broken pieces of her soul and moving forward.

Annie's lack of interest in a relationship was spurred on from the fact that her father had abandoned them when they needed him most. Her mother had fallen ill and he had decided to leave without so much as a warning. He had snuck away during the night, like a coward but was kind enough to leave a letter telling them of his infidelities. Her mother had died a few weeks later.

Two days after her mother's death, Annie was walking into town to try and find work to support herself. She had bumped into Micah along the way and was very wary of him. But he won over her trust with his kindness and they had soon got to talking as friends. When he found out that she was after work because her mother had passed, that very day he took her back to the manor and she had been there ever since.

Annie had been home every day taking care of her mother before she started working at the manor and though she knew what it felt like to lose someone, she was still rather sheltered because her life had involved very few people. But something altogether lovely about Annie was that she was strong. Her mother had always taught her to value others but also to know her own value and Annie had latched onto that belief. She couldn't complain about anything in her life at the moment but there were things that she found trying. One of those things was the lady of the manor.

Miss Danes had accepted Annie into her home so easily because they were apparently distantly related somehow but whenever she queried for specifics, Miss Danes became vague and unwilling to talk. Her excuse almost seemed like a fabrication but why would you lie to try and add another person to your employ? It would end up costing more and would take effort to train someone new. So Annie had let the matter drop and decided to be grateful for a house to live in and food to eat.

Miss Danes was a little older, possibly close to her fiftieth year and unmarried. Her soft brown hair and gentle features, along with her diminutive frame and short height gave a deceptively kind look. But to her staff she seemed to be a regal woman, always presuming she was more valuable than most. She was refined and attractive in her own way but had an edge to her that bordered frightening.

"Micah, if I agree to your advice will you help me finish my preparation?" Annie asked. Rolling his eyes, he let the matter drop and helped her with her task.

As if by design, Rosemary came in just as they finished preparing everything.

"Annie, collect the tray and come with me," Rosemary instructed. She was always kind but when it came to serving, it had to be perfect. Her motto was; if you're going to do it, then do it right.

Annie followed carefully balancing the large, silver tray that held the tea and entrees. Rosemary led the way into the parlour, mazing through the extravagant, decorative manor. Annie hated the large portraits of dead descendants in Miss Danes' family, it was unnerving to see them.

They two women entered the room silently. Miss Danes had chosen the sun room for her visit today because it would only be a brief visit. The drapes were pulled back and the late afternoon sun shone through the room. Miss Danes and her guest sat opposite each other, with a small, mahogany table in between them. The room was mostly windows so no pictures were hung but there were a few vases scattered through the room that held subtle flower arrangements. This room was modest compared to the rest of the manor because it had the least furniture, which is why Annie liked it so much.

"Mr. Brighton, do tell me of your travels," Miss Danes asked of her guest.

As Annie set her tray on the serving table she glanced up to the company. To her shock Eli was sitting across from Miss Danes on the large ottoman. She was grateful that she had already set the tray down or she would have dropped it. Rosemary and Annie silently set out the tea along with the food and stood in the corner as they always did. Hands clasped in front of them ready to serve, ensuring they did not look at the guest. Inside Annie was panicking, what if he made reference to the markets in front of Miss Danes? She would be in so much trouble and there would be no way to deny it. It's not as if she could call a gentleman with money a liar when he wasn't. She wouldn't even get away with that if he was!

Annie gazed out the window to avoid eye contact with Eli. The problem was, where he was sitting directly faced her and she could feel his eyes on her constantly. As her anxiety started to build the butler came in, dressed perfectly in his fine suit, and addressed the hostess. He was a middle aged man, kept to himself mostly and had been serving Miss Danes for longer than Annie had been there.

"Miss Danes, a caller is at the door requesting your presence," he announced softly. Miss Danes paused in frustration but everyone there could tell she was not impressed.

"Mr. Brighton, do you mind if I attend to this matter for a moment?" Miss Danes asked trying to hide the irritation in her voice.

"Not at all, Miss Danes." Eli stood as she left and remained standing after her exit. He looked to Annie but she continued to avoid him. He walked right up to her and stood in front of her, leaving Rosemary aghast.

"Annie, what a lovely coincidence," Eli said sounding pleasantly surprised. Rosemary looked confused at the interaction.

"Not to sound rude more than once in a day but it would be best if we did not speak," Annie said as quietly as she could.

"Then let us strike up another bargain, shall we?" Eli almost told, rather than asked. Annie looked to Rosemary for help but she just stood there helpless, not knowing what to do. "Just a last name is all I will ask for now," Eli requested.

Micah's advice about being more careful around men came to mind. What was she meant to do in a situation like this? As she tried to think of the best course of action she heard Miss Danes walking up the hallway.

"Her last name is Belle, Mr. Brighton," Rosemary whispered frantically.

"Annie Belle," he tested the name. "What a fitting name," he said with a smile.

"Please sit down, Mr. Brighton," Annie asked a little panicked.

"Only if you promise to call me Eli," he negotiated.

"Fine, Eli. Please sit back down." Annie gave in. He smiled and went back to his seat on the settee. He stood as Miss Danes re-entered the room, as if he had been sitting, waiting for her all along. Rosemary and Annie soundlessly sighed in relief as they narrowly escaped reprimand for interacting with the guest.

"Rosemary, Annie." Miss Danes turned and looked at them from her seat. They held their breath in alarm. "Mr. Brighton and I will be fine from here. You may leave now and start to prepare dinner."

Not being able to help herself, Annie took a quick glance back at Eli before she left the room. As she did she thought she caught a wink on her way out, which made her heart skip a beat nervously.

"How do you know that man?" Rosemary asked as they made their way back to clean the kitchen and start Miss Danes' dinner.

"He is the man from the markets," she answered a little astonished at the coincidence.

"Well he seems to have some interest in you." There was almost excitement in Rosemary's voice.

"Do not be so silly," she said trying to discourage Rosemary's enthusiasm. "I will most likely not see him again." But Annie didn't realise just how wrong she would be.
**CHAPTER 2**

Annie had been sent to the markets late the next day on the whim of one of Miss Danes' moods. She wanted Annie to fetch a brooch she had ordered a few weeks ago and apparently, 'it just couldn't wait'. Miss Danes didn't seem to think of others when it came to something she wanted and all else had to be dropped at her request. As always, Annie thought on the bright side of life, thankful that at least she could keep her hair out for the rest of the day.

So off Annie went, dressed in a sandy coloured, short sleeved dress for the trip. Micah was again her companion for the trip but he had to mind the horse at the town gates so it wasn't stolen. Because it was late afternoon not many people were around and an unattended horse would be too good an opportunity for a thief to pass up. He didn't want Annie to go into the markets alone but there seemed to be no other choice. It would be safer in a crowd for her rather than at the gates, or so they thought. She couldn't understand why he was being so over protective, she had been going into the markets by herself for years.

The markets were the same as they always were, loud and not without drama. The afternoon was warm and inviting and the town seemed to be thriving off it. Annie looked around and thought that there seemed to be more and more buildings every time she went there and they were all getting taller and taller. She was just glad that the manor was set a good distance away from the crowded cities. She hated the washed out, grey look that came from the material used to build, what looked to be, every building in the town. It was all too gloomy for her. The only colour she could find amongst the grey was seen through the windows peering into the stores, and that depended on the style of the store. Some were just as dreary as the buildings themselves.

Annie finally made it through the crowd and entered the store she had been searching for, the little bell at the door gently announced her presence. She stood and waited patiently as the clerk served another customer before her. The small store only had a few displays and was a little dusty but the stock was neat and tidy. A simple general store, selling different types of knickknacks that might be appealing to all different types of people.

When it was her turn she stepped up to the glass counter, which stored trinkets of many sorts beneath, and presented her paper coupon. The clerk was a short, elderly man with half glasses and grey hair and seemed to be struggling to read the paper. Eventually he managed it then walked to the back of the store, out of sight. He wasn't overly friendly but he hadn't been rude either, she couldn't really tell what type of person he was because he hadn't even spoken to her. After a while of searching the clerk returned empty handed. Annie looked at him confused.

"Sorry Miss, this item was delayed. It will be another week," he explained respectfully. Holding back her frustration she strained a smile, after all it wasn't his fault it was late.

"Thank you for your time," is all she said before she took the coupon turned to leave.

After looking around to check that no one was watching, she subtly slipped the coupon down the top of her dress to make sure she didn't lose it. She pushed through the door with more force than usual and accidentally hit someone.

"I am so sor...ry..." but her sentence trailed off. When she looked around to find the victim of her carelessness there was no one to be seen. She could have sworn she had seen someone, a tall man with dark hair. After a moment of thought she deduced it to confusion and was off, though she couldn't help but glance behind her to see if she could spot someone it could have been.

Finally she made her way through the crowd to the gates but when she arrived there was no Micah to be seen. She looked around and saw other horses and a few men milling off to one side but there was no one she knew. After a few dazed moments a messy, young boy came running up to her.

"You Annie?" He asked in his harsh accent, with a slight lisp.

"Yes," she answered, still feeling rather confused. He handed her a piece of paper then ran off. She unfolded it in a daze to find it was a letter from Micah. It read:

Miss Danes sent a messenger to request my help with an issue in the stable.

I will be back as soon as I am able.

Stay safe.

Micah.

"This is a pleasant turn of events," she muttered sarcastically to herself. She scrunched up the paper, planning to keep hold of it until she could find somewhere to dispose of it. No brooch and no way home, this trip was turning out to be more than just a waste of time, it was a downright inconvenience.

Annie huffed her way back through the crowd and found a wooden bench outside a small upholstery store. She sat there patiently watching the crowd go by for half an hour then not quite so patiently for another half an hour. To pass the time she shoved Micah's letter in between the cracks of the bench but it didn't amuse her for long.

When the sun started to fall lower in the sky and the wind picked up she resolved to make her own way home. There were less people in the courtyard of the markets now and she easily made her way to the gates and beyond.

It felt like the sun was setting at an alarming rate and she still had a long way to go. After a time of walking she stopped and looked around to get her bearings. She stood alone on the cusp of evening on a deserted, dirt path, surrounded by nothing but trees. She had the option of crossing through the large cemetery, which would bring her around to the back of the manor and cut her walk in half, or continue the long way. She looked up at the sky to gauge how much time she had left and she estimated at least an hour of light. Surely she could make it? As her feet started to ache and her energy felt like it was dwindling, they were her prompters to choose the shortcut. She folded her arms across her chest to fend off the chill from the wind and made her way into the graveyard.

Annie walked swiftly through the scattered tombstones until she thought she heard footsteps apart from her own. She stopped for a moment to check if it was the echo of her own she was hearing. When they seemed to stop at the same time she had, and she had scanned the trees nearby to find them empty, she slowly started to make her way again. When the sound persisted she stopped again, this time fear crept up her spine and trickled into her soul. Why hadn't she just waited for Micah? It was too late to ask herself 'why'. She found no other choice but to run.

As she ran as fast as she could, which was a rather poor speed, she could hear whoever it was swiftly approaching behind her. Her heart beat so fast she thought she could hear it over her panicked breathing. Her hair whipped in the wind every which way and she wildly brushed it out of her eyes as she ran.

Before she made it very far she was grabbed from behind. After being jolted backwards viciously, she was thrown a few feet through the air and landed hard against a tombstone. Her breath was knocked out of her lungs and she found it hard to see, not only from the blinding pain but also the dimming light. Her vision was blurry at best and her ribs had a burning, sharp pain running through them but she still tried to push herself up to run. She made it to her feet but couldn't move any further. She heaved in air but it stung her lungs to do so, so she leaned against the tombstone for support. She felt like she was going to be sick so she held her arm across her stomach to try and push the feeling away. She heard steps approaching and tried to move away but she didn't have the strength, instead all she could do was fall to the ground in pain.

This was it, she was going to die and she had done nothing in her life that she aspired to do. She wanted to travel to the countries she had read about, she wanted to write a book, she wanted to live in a foreign place but those moments were about to be stolen away from her. Then everything would be forgotten, she would be forgotten. Just another grave to add to the yard.

Annie looked up through the grey dusk and teary eyes to see the dark figure approaching. As the man stepped closer to her she had almost resigned herself to her fate when another figure came out of the darkness and became silhouetted against the grey sky. Her head fell against the grass as she saw the new figure walk up to the approaching attacker. She tried to focus through the pain but it was difficult, she did manage to notice the new figure's broad shoulders. It was a man. He seemed to put his hands on either side of her attackers face then her view was blocked by his back. He moved his arms violently and the attacker fell to the ground without a sound. Now the man turned his attention to her and suddenly she didn't know if she should feel scared or relieved by his presence. He made his way to her and knelt beside her.

"Where does it hurt?" His velvety, smooth voice washed over her like warm water on aching bones. His hands hovered over her, unsure of how to help.

"My chest," she answered, her voice was husky from the pain. She started to turn to lay on her back but he gently placed one hand on her shoulder and the other low on her waist, avoiding where it might be hurting.

"I think moving would be ill advised at the moment, Annie." He accidentally used her name. She looked up at him trying to see his face but all she could see was his silhouette.

"Who are you?" She asked almost sleepily. What she really meant to ask was, 'how do you know my name?' but she was confused from the pain.

"My name is, Baden." She tried to recall anyone she knew with that name but no one came to mind and certainly no one with a voice like his. "Annie, do you think I could lift you without you hurting too much?" He asked softly, concern coating his voice. At the moment his senses were being overwhelmed by her soul and he found it hard to keep himself together.

All she could do was nod, her face wincing from the pain it caused. With the greatest of care he took Annie into his arms. However gentle he was it still hurt more than she could bear so he tried to move even more slowly and gently. When he was standing with her in his arms she let her face lean against his chest and her body rest into his. It felt comforting and it helped to distract her from her aching chest. He started to slowly take her away.

"Did you injure your head?" He asked as they walked. Night had fallen and she couldn't see anything now, she wasn't sure how he could.

"No." She couldn't help the sharp breath she drew in from the pain. Instinctively he held her a little closer.

"If you can, try and go to sleep," Baden advised. He was trying to keep his guard up, he was doing everything he could to keep this girl's soul from drowning him but nothing worked.

"I think the discomfort alone is sufficient enough to keep me awake," she tried to joke without gasping.

"Tell me, Annie. How old are you?" He asked trying to distract her from the pain.

"I am nineteen." She paused before she asked her own question. "And how old are you?" Baden was silent for a moment.

"I was born in seventeen-eighty-one," he answered, seeming uncomfortable with the question.

"Twenty-three," she calculated quickly, considering she was barely aware of what was going on. "This is strange," she commented, not really making any sense. She wasn't quite so coherent at the moment and her voice came out drowsily.

"There are many strange things in this world, of which I am only starting to discover." He watched her as he walked, not needing to concentrate on the landscape.

"I work at Miss Danes' manor," she informed thinking that he needed the direction. He smiled a little without letting her know that he already knew. He walked much slower than he was capable of in his effort not to harm her any more than she already was. They continued on in silence for a while.

"Dare I ask if there is a young man awaiting your arrival?" Baden questioned, finally deciding within himself to encroach on her life. He couldn't help himself any longer.

"There is... but he is not mine in the way you are implying," she answered a little breathlessly.

"Is there a hint of regret I detect?" He didn't think there was, he could feel the honesty in her soul but he was checking to be sure. It was the first time he had doubted himself in years.

"Not at all. We are just lovely friends." She found it a little easier to talk now, being close to him seemed to help ease the pain.

"I have a suspicion that he may not feel quite the same," he whispered under his breath.

Looking at her in his arms made him feel strange. Helping her felt like he was going against everything he had been doing for the past three years. He'd been so certain of himself and now he wasn't even sure if he had ever known himself at all. He slowed his pace even further so he had more time to look at her, to try and feel what it was in her soul that overwhelmed all of his senses. She was beautiful, there was no denying that. Beyond beautiful, really. It felt like he wanted to capture her image perfectly, too afraid to look away for fear she might vanish. But there was still something more...something indeterminable.

They came upon the manor before Baden had time to come to any conclusions. He silently headed for the back entrance which led to the kitchen, so no one would see him. He could smell food cooking and voices muttering about the whereabouts of Annie. He could sense that some felt genuinely concerned but others almost wished she would never come back, the ones that envied her. This sparked within him his usual hatred towards humans. At one stage he would have said towards all living things but now...he didn't know if he could bring himself to say it anymore.

"Annie, I will place you at the door then I must go," he said quietly as he approached the manor.

"You are welcome in this home," she assured, still hazy from the pain.

"I am not quite as sure as you are," he remarked. She didn't understand his comment but she couldn't concentrate enough to ask him about it. At the moment all she could think was that she didn't want him to go. The pain in her chest was a mere afterthought.

When he reached the back door he gently placed her on her feet. She managed to restrain the whimper trying to escape but not the pain that came across her face. With careful ease he helped her lean against the stone wall of the manor and didn't let her go until she seemed steady. He went to knock on the door.

"Just a moment, Baden," she said as she wrapped her arms around her waist. He paused and looked to her. "Will you come back?" Her voice seemed to have a different kind of pain amongst it with her question. A pain not caused by physical wounds but as if there was somewhere in her soul that hurt to keep him near.

He could feel that she almost needed him to come back and it made him feel guilty. Why on earth would she want him to come back? She didn't even know him. It concerned him that she seemed to be so careless when it came to her own safety and who she trusted. He just watched her as she stood there, waiting...hoping for him to say yes.

The faint light coming from the manor reached only part of his face and she tried desperately to take in as much as she could.

"I..." Before he could finish his answer he heard someone coming towards the door. "I must go." Then he was gone.

Annie blinked trying to see if she could see him off in the night but it was too dark. Before sorrow from his absence could set in Rosemary opened the door and the light flooded onto Annie. She squinted her eyes from the bright contrast and winced from the now agony in her chest.

"Heavens above, Annie!" Rosemary's voice conveyed her horror at the state her friend was in. She grabbed Annie as she fell through the doorway, trying to hold her up as best she could. "Micah!" Rosemary screamed into the room.

Micah was quick to respond and took Annie in his arms. Somehow they didn't feel as comforting to Annie as Baden's arms had. He took her to her room, which was just off the kitchen. There was a little corridor with a few rooms which was where the help slept and lived. Rosemary opened the door for them and lit a few candles as Micah laid Annie on the bed. It was a small bed with just one white quilt. The rest of the room was bare except for a set of small draws, a reading chair and a small window.

"I will get some warm water and a wash cloth," Rosemary said on her way out. Annie just tried not to focus on the pain as Micah knelt next to her bed and held her hand.

"Annie, what happened?" He asked, tears filling his eyes. She looked over to him feeling guilty for causing his sorrow.

"I became impatient waiting for you to come back. I decided to take a quicker way by going through the graveyard but someone was there...he attacked me." She took a moment for a breath.

"How did you get away?" Micah asked, disturbed by what had happened.

"There was another man who came along and helped me," she answered. A lovely man, she thought hazily.

"Who was he?" Micah asked but she had already passed out from her pain and exertion.
CHAPTER 3

Annie woke in her bed. Her ribs were still sore but she was able to breathe more easily. She heard a noise from the corner of the room and looked to see what it was.

"Micah," she whispered when she saw him. He looked up from where he sat on the reading chair and closed the book he was reading. He quickly set it down and rushed to her side, kneeling beside her bed.

"How are you feeling?" He asked searching her face for any signs of pain.

"Much better than how you found me. How long have I been asleep?" She asked still trying to wake up.

"You have slept for almost two days," Micah sounded alarmed.

"What has Miss Danes said?" Annie was concerned about her reaction, never mind the fact that she was almost killed.

"Nothing, just to let you rest," he assured. Annie felt relieved and frankly, a little shocked by her compassion. It was so out of character for Miss Danes. "The physician said you were quite bruised but nothing was broken. Rosemary has been taking care of you and I have been minding you."

"You both are too kind," she thanked him.

"Annie, the man that attacked you was found..." Micah waited for her reaction. She was a little stunned by what he said.

"Where is he?" Annie asked.

"He is dead." His words came out rather blunt.

"What do you mean? What is going on?" She asked confused as she tried to think back.

"He was found it the graveyard..." Micah hesitated on the next words. He knew Annie was a strong person but he felt the need to protect her.

"What, Micah?" She prompted him.

"He was murdered," he said in disbelief. Annie's eyes narrowed as she tried to remember what she had seen. "Do you remember anything of the man that helped you?"

"Uh..." Annie hesitated.

Baden...they thought Baden did this? She tried to think back to the night in question. Maybe Baden had killed her attacker? She felt unnerved by the thought but if he was a murderer then why had he been so kind with her? She thought the best thing for her to do was tell Micah what happened. After all, she always told him everything and this now seemed to be a police matter.

But there was something inside her that didn't want to tell so, for reasons she didn't know, she kept it to herself.

"I cannot remember," she lied. She felt guilty for lying to him but it wasn't enough to change her mind. "It was dark and I was in too much pain."

Micah's eyes narrowed, in what she thought was suspicion, but he simply nodded and took her at her word. This made her feel even more guilt but it didn't stop her from keeping the information a secret. Rosemary hurried into the room and closed the door quickly.

"Annie, are you feeling well enough at the present time?" She asked standing against the door as if she was blocking someone from opening it.

"Yes, I do. Why?" Annie answered with half a smile on her face at Rosemary's peculiar stance.

"Well, Mr. Brighton is here. He sometimes works with the authorities on investigations and he is here to question you about the attack." Rosemary sounded as surprised as she looked.

"Well...if he must then he must. Can you help me get dressed?" Annie asked her. She began to try and sit up but struggled and Rosemary quickly waved her back down.

"He said it would be fine if you needed to stay resting in bed. He can question you in here." Rosemary walked over and started helping her sit up against the plain, wooden bedhead.

"Alone?" Micah asked sounding utterly appalled.

"Yes, Micah! He is working for the police. It will be fine," Rosemary assured. She pulled the blankets up around Annie's chest and smoothed her hair back to make her a little more presentable. Annie was internally panicking as she silently prepared herself for the interrogation.

"Then why can we not remain in the room?" Micah stood as if he was ready for battle. Rosemary took him by the arm and fluttered her other hand about in the air.

"Stop being so unreasonable, Micah," Rosemary said as she pushed him out of the room. She closed the door as if this would confine him. As she turned to go back to Annie Micah defiantly stuck his head back in the room.

"Then I will be outside this door for every moment of the interview," Micah announced. Rosemary swept him back out the door and closed it again, this time it remained closed. She went and sat on the bed beside Annie.

"Do no fret. Everything will be fine. After the interview is over you will be able to go back to your everyday life," Rosemary promised her. Annie simply nodded, hoping she would be able to keep herself together.

As Eli approached Annie's room he stopped when he saw Micah waiting impatiently outside the door.

"Is Annie fine to take the interview?" Eli asked.

"Apparently so," Micah responded harshly. "I will be right outside this door if she needs me," he warned.

Micah seemed to forget who he was speaking to but Eli wasn't offended. It appeared that Micah was just trying to protect Annie and he couldn't fault him for that, as long as it was sincere. Eli's mouth turned up in a crooked smile suggesting something unspoken and obscure between them. Rosemary came out of the room and stopped abruptly when she saw Eli, surprised that he was already there.

"She is ready for you now, Mr. Brighton." Rosemary moved away from the door to let him past.

"Thank you," he said respectfully as he walked into the room. She closed the door behind him.

"Why did you close the door?" Micah whispered agitatedly.

"Micah, you are simply impossible. Do not interrupt them," she warned as she made her way back to the kitchen. He turned back to the door and stared at it, as if by doing so he would be able to see through it. Needless to say, it didn't work.

Inside the room Eli stood inspecting Annie from across the space. He pulled out a little leather notebook from his jacket and a small metal writing utensil.

"What is that?" Annie asked curiously, straining to get a better look. It was hard to see the detail from across the room.

"This?" Eli lifted the pen like design for her to see. She nodded. "I use it to write."

"Do you not use a quill?" She wondered, fascinated by the object.

"Ink and quill I found tiresome to carry. I based this off the designs of a caliph of the Maghreb, he ruled in the tenth century. He requested a device to write with in which he 'could not stain his hands or clothes'. He was given a device where the ink was in a reservoir residing in the shaft and did not leak when upside down. Or so the records say." He pointed to the length of the pen. "I just refined the design a little."

"And what is it made from?" Annie had never seen anything like it, she was surprised at the detail and research of the information she was told. She loved learning and she liked how he was so thorough. The metal was lustrous and reflective like a mirror but with a shiny, steely-grey colour. Eli smiled a little at her perceptiveness.

"It is called Chromium. A type of metal that is strong but malleable. It is quite a recent discovery, 1797 actually. It has a few unique uses," he explained, admiring the metal.

"Such as?" Annie was riveted, she took in knowledge like a sponge soaked up water. He looked to her a little suspiciously, as if she knew more than she should.

"Anyone would think I was the one being interviewed." He changed the subject smoothly and she became nervous. He pulled the chair over that Micah had been sitting on and sat close to her near the bed. He smiled before he spoke. "So tell me what happened, Annie," he asked. She swallowed hard from the nerves.

"Well, I was meant to wait for Micah to come back to the markets to retrieve me. I became impatient and decided to walk home. I decided to take the faster way through the graveyard. I heard someone following me so I ran but they caught up to me. That is when they attacked me," she recounted. She tried to list what happened so she wouldn't have to give much detail.

"And what did they do?" Eli asked. So far he hadn't written anything but he had his pen poised, ready to write.

"He..." Annie paused. She thought it would sound crazy if she said what the attacker did. Who could throw someone that far?

"You can tell me, Annie." Something in his voice spurred her on.

"He threw me and I landed against a tombstone," she said. "It sounds impossible but I promise it happened." Eli was writing something, when he was done he looked back to her with a ready smile.

"I believe you," he assured. "Now tell me of the one who helped you?" He made certain he didn't say any specifics so she would be the one defining the helper's characteristics.

"I was unable to see clearly but he fought off the attacker then helped me." She kept it as simple as she could.

"Where did he come from?" Eli questioned.

"I am not sure. As I said, it was hard to see."

"And how do you know it was a man?" Eli started writing again.

"What woman that you know of could fight off an attacker so easily?" She asked a question to avoid having to answer.

"How did he help you?" This time he looked up to watch her face as she answered.

"He carried me back to the manor." She tried to pre-empt his next questions so she could think of better answers.

"He carried you the whole way, in the dark?" Eli asked looking a little surprised. Annie simply nodded. "And he said absolutely nothing to you?"

"He asked if I was hurt."

"So you knew it was a man because of his voice, not just because he could fend off an attacker?" Eli caught her out in her omission.

"I suppose, yes." Her nerves doubled instantly. What was she trying to hide anyway? Eli took notes.

"And what did his voice sound like?" He asked.

"It was...a man's voice." She tried to avoid answering but Eli had caught onto her tactic.

"Was it deep?" He probed, looking up when she didn't speak. She thought for a moment and decided that it was so she nodded. "Husky?" She shook her head. "Clear?"

"Smooth," she accidentally said reminiscing Baden's voice. Eli wrote.

"What was his manner like?"

"He was gentle and caring," she explained. He paused before he looked up, brows slightly furrowed in confusion.

"Did he say anything else?"

"He asked my age and suggested I try to sleep," she said.

"What happened when you came upon the manor?" Eli asked as he continued to write.

"He said he had to leave and left me at the door. That is when Rosemary found me." Annie finished the recount, happy to be done.

"Why did he not come in?" Eli asked pointedly. Annie shrugged her shoulders unable to think of an answer. She honestly didn't know why he hadn't stayed with her but she wished that he had.

"Did you see his face at all?" Eli watched her closely. She just shook her head. "Did he tell you his name?" Annie hesitated, this would be her first actual lie not just an omission. Why was she going to lie anyway? She had no answer for herself. So without knowing the reason, she lied to protect Baden.

"No," she said evenly. Eli looked at her as if he could tell she was lying but he decided to let it drop.

"May I check something, Annie?" Eli asked looking at her neck.

"Yes," she said nervously. Eli stood and moved over to her. He placed his notepad and pen on the bed and slowly lifted his hands. He placed a hand either side of her neck and softly felt along her skin. He lifted her hair and inspected her neck.

"What are you looking for?" Her voice was shaky, she had never had a man touch her so intimately before. He stepped back and looked at her for a moment, glancing down at her wrists. He reached down and felt along the unmarked skin of her inner forearms. When he was done he picked up his belongings and took a step back.

"That will be all for now, Annie." He smiled at her kindly.

"Thank you, Mr..." She stopped when he raised his eyebrows. "Eli," she corrected herself, remembering their deal.

"No, thank you. If you remember anything else please contact me." He wrote down his address and handed it to her. "In fact, feel free to contact me for anything."

She took the paper and as she did he winked at her. Micah chose that moment to burst through the door and disrupt the interview.

"We are done for now," Eli said to Micah as if he had expected the interruption. Eli left without another word and Micah's eyes trailed after him as he walked away.

"How did it go?" Micah asked when they were alone.

"As well as expected." She smiled falsely, hoping that she hadn't given Baden away.
CHAPTER 4

A few days later Annie was feeling much better and she woke up early after a restful sleep. She had spent most of her time thinking of Baden and hoping she would get the chance to see him again. She started to feel a little crazy, thinking of this stranger so often. She dressed for the day in a simple, black dress and tied her hair up before she went into the kitchen.

"Annie, what are you doing?" Rosemary asked, frozen in complete shock that she was even out of bed.

"I am feeling better and I want to help," Annie answered as she started on the preparation for breakfast. After Rosemary moved past her initial surprise, she saw Annie's resolve and decided not to question her. Even though she was tempted to drag her back to bed and force her to rest.

"If you feel you are up to it then there is no problem. But let me braid your hair so you will not have to wear it atop your head. It may give you a headache." Rosemary sat her down on a chair and gathered her hair to start the braid.

"What is the schedule for the day?" Annie asked ignoring the slight pain in her chest. She was inspecting her nails rather closely to make sure they were clean and neat.

"Mr. Brighton will be joining Miss Danes for dinner," Rosemary said meaningfully.

"It looks like she may have an admirer." Annie sounded unfazed as she concentrated on her nails.

"I think she is the excuse and you are the reason," Rosemary shared her opinion.

"Well, I am not interested." Annie placed her hands in her lap as if to show she wanted the matter dropped.

"Annie, how can you say that? He could be your way out of this," Rosemary said implying the situation of being the help.

"What is wrong with what we do? We do not have idle hands, we have been educated unlike many other people in our plight," Annie reasoned looking at the bright side of life. Rosemary finished the braid then walked around the chair and stood in front of Annie.

"We only have had more education because Miss Danes cannot stand imprudent people. You could be the lady of a manor," Rosemary tried to convince her.

"Rosemary," Annie said as she stood. "You are moving ahead of yourself, he does not even know me."

"But he could," she persisted.

"I do not have any desire to be married..." Annie paused for a moment and thought of Baden, maybe he could be the exception to her rule? Wait...it was ridiculous to even contemplate that. When she realised she hadn't finished her sentence she shook the thought from her mind and continued. "But if I did, I am certain that I would want to marry for love." She moved around her friend and went back to making breakfast.

"Sometimes we do not have the luxury of love." Rosemary went and stood next to her and started working.

Annie didn't say anything in response, she just wanted the matter to be dropped. She was also a little too distracted by the thought of Baden to answer.

"Do not tell me it is Micah," Rosemary kept at it.

"No, Rosemary. Please let it go," Annie almost pleaded.

"Let what go?" Micah asked as he came through the door. Rosemary and Annie looked up and just stared at him. Annie looked to Rosemary for help.

"I keep asking if she is fine and she wants me to stop pestering her," Rosemary lied.

"If she did not feel well she would not work," Micah said with a smile. He walked over and grabbed an apple then headed out. The women shared a relieved look as he walked out the door to do his chores.

After they had finished making breakfast Annie took Miss Danes' food to her room, she preferred to stay in her room until late in the day. Annie went in without knocking, as that was what they had been instructed to do. She froze when she saw a man asleep in Miss Danes' oversized bed and she was nowhere to be seen. He looked to be Miss Danes' age with a few grey hairs at his temple. The sheets covered his lower body but from what Annie could see he was shirtless. The man suddenly woke and looked around, eventually finding her standing there.

"Sorry Sir, I just...I was bringing Miss Danes her breakfast." Annie looked to the ground, quickly placed the tray down and turned to leave. She had never been so uncomfortable in her life.

"Excuse me," the man said. Annie stopped and tried to keep her eyes anywhere but on him. She looked at every piece of furniture, from the window seat to the shelves and the dressing table in an attempt to keep her eyes busy. "Where am I?" He asked. Annie was surprised and couldn't help but look over to him.

"You are in Miss Danes' manor," Annie informed. He looked around as if he had no clue where he was. Before he could ask anything else she left the room, closing the door firmly behind her.

"Annie," Miss Danes said as she approached her room. Annie jumped from the surprise of her approaching but tried to keep herself composed. "You are feeling better?" She looked Annie up and down suspiciously.

"Yes Miss," Annie said keeping her eyes on the ground. "Your breakfast is in the room."

"Very good." Miss Danes walked around her to get to the door. Annie started to leave then stopped when Miss Danes began speaking again. "Make certain that dinner is well prepared tonight, Annie. Mr. Brighton will be joining us." She said it with meaning behind it but Annie couldn't quite pick what it was.

"Yes, Miss Danes." With that Annie left. She didn't mention what she had seen in the room to anyone, she thought it would be inappropriate.

In preparation for the night, the butler had been sent to tell the help to dress in their best for the serving. Annie wore her lilac dress, it was simple in design but because of her lovely figure the dress looked quite exquisite. Miss Danes ensured that all of her staff was well supplied with presentable attire, she wanted to be known as the manor with the most. She hated the blandness of the attire she saw on the help at other manors, which Annie thought was funny because the colour scheme through the whole manor was bland.

"Annie," Micah said breathlessly as he came into the kitchen. She had kept her hair in the braid but wrapped it around her head into a bun.

Annie smiled at him and noticed for the first time a look in his eyes that she hadn't recognised before. She looked away from his intense gaze trying to pretend she didn't see what she just saw, which was much more than friendship in his eyes. Rosemary came in and without meaning to, saved Annie from having to deal with this new insight.

"Annie, you look darling," Rosemary complimented as she gathered the things needed for the first course. Annie gathered what she would be serving and the two women were on their way.

To Annie's surprise the man from this morning was sitting at the table with Miss Danes and Eli. They were situated in the dining room at the end of a long table designed to seat twenty. The crystal candelabras caught the candle light beautifully and the table cloth was perfectly white, with the plates and cutlery set out flawlessly. This room had no paintings on the wall but it did have cabinets showing off Miss Danes' most prized vases and ornaments.

Rosemary and Annie served the three and stood off in the corner, hands clasped. Annie did all she could not to look at Eli but it felt like he had his eyes on her every moment. She began to worry that Miss Danes would notice and become infuriated that someone was paying her help more attention than her.

"Mr. Brighton, is there something you would like to ask Annie?" Miss Danes questioned with agitation obvious in her voice. Annie's heart felt like it stopped beating and Rosemary's eyes widened in shock. An awkward silence filled the room and Eli glared at Miss Danes, obviously appalled at her rudeness.

"Actually, I am quite curious as to why she is working. Should she not rest after her ordeal?" Eli didn't find Miss Danes frightening in the least, which was either stupid or brave.

"She was the one who chose to begin working again," Miss Danes explained harshly. Annie wanted to run out of the room and lock herself away. The other man seemed to be oblivious to anything that was happening.

"I am pleased for her sake that she had a choice," Eli said through gritted teeth. This was beyond ridiculous. Why was he even talking about this? Didn't he know that this was completely out of line?

"Maybe it would be best if this night was cut short, Mr. Brighton." It was obvious Miss Danes was holding herself back.

"I could not agree more." Eli stood, threw his napkin down and stormed out of the manor. Annie and Rosemary stood there, mouth agape in shock. The other man just stood and left without saying a word. Miss Danes turned to Annie with a look akin to hatred in her eyes.

"You little trollop," she spat the words. Annie placed her hand against her chest as if to ask, who me?

Annie looked to Rosemary who was just as horrified as her. Before either of them could defend Annie, Miss Danes walked up and slapped her across the face. Annie's face violently twisted to one side and she paused for a moment from the shock of it. She placed her hand over her cheek to subdue the burning as she slowly turned back to the others. Her eyes watered from the sting and shock of the slap and she just stared at Miss Danes. Annie was left completely speechless from the older woman's outburst. Rosemary stood there frozen in complete bewilderment

"Get out of this place within the hour. Get off my grounds, I never want to see you again!" Miss Danes screamed and then left.

As soon as Miss Danes left them alone Annie ran for her room, Rosemary was close behind. Micah was in the kitchen when they ran through to the help's quarters. Annie raced into her room, slammed the door and jammed the chair against the handle so no one could get in. She knew that Rosemary and Micah would probably be thrown out along with her if Miss Danes saw them interacting after that display. She had to leave before they could suffer her fate.

She gathered most of her things into her bed sheet and tied it all together with the corners. It wasn't too heavy and the shape was manageable. Rosemary and Micah were banging on the door, yelling to be let in but Annie ignored their requests. Her only possible escape was the window. But where was she to go?

Suddenly she remembered the piece of paper with Eli's address on it. She grabbed it from her draw and placed it in the bust of her dress so she wouldn't lose it. If he had gotten her into this mess then it was his responsibility to get her out of it.

She pushed the window open and looked down to see how far the drop was. Only a few feet, she could manage that. She carefully dropped her belongings, which were mainly her clothes, to the ground and they landed with a soft thud. She then hoisted her feet out over the window and turned so her stomach was resting on the sill as her legs dangled over the edge. Her ribs were still sore and made it more difficult to manage but she made it to the ground with relative ease. She did fall on her backside but it wasn't anything that would cause permanent damage. She picked herself up off the ground then grabbed her things. She looked around the pitch black night feeling as if she were the size of a mouse. How was she going to make it anywhere?
CHAPTER 5

Annie started walking into the cold night, cuddling her things as if it would make her feel better. She knew the grounds quite well and thought she could manage, at least until she reached the edge of Miss Danes' land. She contemplated taking a horse but Miss Danes would probably have her arrested for theft.

After wandering around for some time it started to rain, which just felt like a tribute to her bad luck. Annie ran for the nearest tree which was exposed when lightning struck through the sky. Not the smartest idea she ever had but she couldn't just stand there getting soaked. It was bad enough that her hair was already drenched through along with her clothes. She was freezing and had no hope of finding her way anywhere. As she reached the slight shelter of the branches another lightning bolt lit up the sky and illuminated everything. What it lit up made Annie's heart stop beating, she had seen an instant flash of a sea of tombstones. Somehow she had made her way into the graveyard without even realising. She began trembling from not only the cold but the terror that was running through her.

Tears started to run down her face and mix with the rain as she tried to push away the fear rising inside her. What was she meant to do? How had she even gotten there? Was she just at the edge of the graveyard or in the heart of it? The scary thing was, she wouldn't know until morning unless she ventured through it.

Lightning lit up the sky again and this time exposed something even more frightful, a man she had never seen before standing across the other side of the graveyard. He had just been standing there, watching her. Annie's body started to tremble even more and her heart beat wildly in her chest. Why was this happening again? How was it happening? Why were there all these people in graveyards at night? It was starting to feel less like a coincidence and more like someone had planned it. What was she meant to do now?

Before she could think of anything she felt hands grab her arms from behind and she let out an almighty scream. She dropped her belongings instantly. She started kicking her legs around and hitting her arms through the air. Surely it had to accomplish something. She kept screaming until her throat was burning but it was no use against the sound of the rain. No one would hear, no one would come to help her this time and all she could think was she wished she had seen Baden again.

The person put their hand over her mouth and held her tight against them so they could restrain her with one arm.

"Annie," the person yelled over the sound of the rain. When she stopped her struggling, whoever it was loosened their hold so she spun around and tried to see through the dark. She wasn't sure but she thought she knew that voice.

Lightning flashed and the face it lit up left her with a relief that buried itself into her soul. Eli stood before her and she had never been so glad to see someone in her whole life. He held onto her protectively and she was so comforted that she threw her arms around him and buried her face into his neck. After a moment the rain eased enough so they could hear each other speak.

"What are you doing here?" Eli asked, happy to hold her in his arms.

"After you left Miss Danes threw me out and I wandered into the graveyard by mistake," Annie said through tearful sobs.

"Come with me, I will take you back to my manor." Eli took her hand after grabbing her things and started to lead her away by the arm.

"Wait, I need to gather my belongings," Annie said with left over panic from her previous fright. Eli held up her bindle for inspection but she couldn't see in the dark.

"I already have it," he assured her. He led her a little way before he helped her onto his waiting horse. In the pitch black he managed to tie her bag to his steed and mount himself.

"How did you do that?" Annie asked as they rode away. The rain was less than a drizzle now but she was still freezing. She sat in Eli's lap as they made their way to his home.

"I am very experienced," he joked. She rested her head against his chest, not caring what he thought of it. She was far too weary to care.

After what felt like forever, they arrived at his manor and she had never felt more exhausted in her life. Eli jumped down and helped her off the horse with great care. The light coming from the house made it so she could see and she felt a little more at ease. He walked her into the entryway of the house and closed the door behind them. A man appeared seemingly out of nowhere.

"Garrick, this is Annie. She will be here for some time but for now just place her in my room," Eli instructed. She froze from the thought of sleeping in his room and stood there feeling a little uncertain.

"There is a fire already started and some clothes you can change into. I have somewhere I need to be but when I come back I will sleep in the guest room," Eli assured her after seeing her hesitation. She still looked a little wary. "There is a lock on the door if you would feel safer."

"Sorry." Is all she could think to say.

"Whatever for?" Eli was genuinely confused.

"For intruding on your life." Annie hated feeling like a burden but she didn't have anywhere else to go. Eli gave one of his sweet smiles.

"I do not think 'intrude' is a word for someone you willing allow in. I will see you in the morning or sleep in if you need. In fact, do so. You need to rest." His thoughts played out as he spoke and it made her smile. He wanted to stay and spend time with her but he had to go. After a moment of hesitation he spoke. "Good night, Annie." Eli forced himself to leave through the door they had just come in.

She turned to Garrick feeling a little silly, standing there soaked through and helpless.

"This way, Miss Belle." He smiled a warm smile that helped to make Annie feel more at ease. She followed behind him as he led the way up stairs.

The stairs were almost directly in front of the door and the downstairs rooms branched off to the right and left of the staircase. The walls, banisters and shelves were made of dark, elegant, polished wood. Lovely paintings hung on the walls of landscapes rather than portraits of people, like so many other manors had. The floor runners were simple but effective, a red so dark it was almost black with gold edges. Everything went together neatly.

The colour of the walls were a lovely, light blue and refreshing. The same dark, elegant wood from the trimmings ran along the walls. They were cut to panel vertically, covering the last third of the wall down to the floor. The curtains were a royal blue and the furniture stuck to neutral tones, such as light brown and ivory, fashioned conservatively but still sophisticated. All together it was much more welcoming than Miss Danes' manor.

"How do you know my last name?" She asked as she followed Garrick. They were walking along the upstairs landing that housed some of the bedrooms and overlooked the open room at the front of the manor.

"Mr. Brighton informs me of the things I need to know," he answered vaguely.

"My things, they are on the back of Eli's horse," Annie fretted. Garrick stopped and looked over the banister towards the door. She did the same and saw her possessions on the floor by the doorway. The bundle looked rather pitiable in such a refined manor.

"He seems to think of everything," she whispered, sounding almost stunned.

"That he does," Garrick agreed as he started walking again. He took her to a room and held the door open for her. She walked into the room hesitantly, it was all very dream-like. "Good night, Miss Belle," he said then closed the door. She stood there just taking a moment to soak in her surroundings.

There was a huge fireplace, with a roaring fire, that almost covered one whole wall. The bed was bigger than any she had ever seen and looked softer than clouds seemed, with its white fluffy pillows and light blue quilt which matched the walls. A writing desk sat in between two huge windows and there was another door on the other side of the room that she guessed was a dressing room. The rug was the same as the ones throughout the house and just one reading chair sat near the fire place, she could see it was coloured emerald green as the firelight flickered against it.

There were some nightclothes laid out on the bed, obviously Eli's because it had his monogram in white stitching on the breast pocket. The simple pants and button shirt were a royal blue, very neat and very Eli. She quickly got dressed into the oversized clothes and placed her soaking wet dress near the fire. She would dry her other clothes later. The nightclothes were so soft against her chilled skin. As she looked around the room, and thinking back to the rest of the house, she was beginning to think that his favourite colour was blue.

She scurried over to the seat near the fire to warm her chilled bones. As she sat there looking into the flames she couldn't help but think about Baden, as she had for the past few days. She wondered where he was right then and suddenly she realised that he could be with someone he loved. The idea of that caused her to feel unsettled and she found that she didn't like the feeling at all. Pushing away the thought she looked around the room and thought of Eli. She smiled to herself, thinking of how kind he had been to her without even knowing her. She found it a little intense that he had taken such a liking to her in an extremely short amount of time but it was sweet in its own way. It did make her wonder why Baden hadn't.

After she felt warmed up enough by the heat of the fire she eased herself into the bed. Her aching bones welcomed the plush comfort of the mattress and soon she was fast asleep, dreaming of those blue eyes and that smooth voice.

The next morning Annie slept in until ten o'clock. When she looked over at the clock on the mantle and saw the time she sat up and rushed out of bed. Before she could think of what to do next there was a knock at the door.

"Who is it?" Annie asked.

"Eli." His voice was muffled through the door. She looked down to check her clothes. They completely covered her and they didn't seem inappropriate. In fact, they were just ridiculously baggy.

"Come in," she said after careful consideration. The door clicked open and Eli came in, a smile coming to his face as soon as he saw her. Suddenly she realised that she hadn't locked the door last night and it made her feel vulnerable.

"How are you feeling?" He asked as he stood in front of her, hands in his pockets. He left his top button open and had no jacket on. He looked very casual and quite handsome in his white shirt and black dress pants.

"I am feeling rejuvenated...though I am shocked I slept in so late," she said a little disappointed in herself.

"You obviously needed the rest," he rebuked her self-scolding. His smile faded when he saw the bruise that had developed on her cheek and anger filled his expression as he realised what had happened.

"No matter, what may I do to help?" She asked enthusiastically, trying to avoid having to explain the bruise.

Annie wasn't one to use people, she always wanted to pay her way and she certainly didn't want anyone's pity. Seeing that she didn't want to talk about it he decided not to rehash last night's event.

"I want you to do nothing," he answered. She looked at him perplexed.

"Mr..." she paused, remembering to use his first name. "Eli, please. Let me assist with your daily chores. I want to be a help to you," she insisted.

"You are not my hired help, Annie. You are a guest in my manor and you will be treated as such."

"Then a guest has a departure date. When will that be?" She asked.

"Never," he declared. She raised her brow in surprise at his answer. "I mean to say, stay as long as you like. As far as I am aware you do not have another place to go?" He reasoned and she wondered how he knew that.

"Not to sound ungrateful but what am I meant to do with my time?" She tried to ask politely.

"Whatever you wish." His grin was so wide it looked as if it would stretch off his face. "Before we continue going around in conversational circles, I came to say that I am off. I will return this evening but it would be my privilege if you would accompany me to dinner tonight?" His offer was smooth and well spoken, almost as if he had rehearsed it.

"I do not think I have anything appropriate to wear," she said trying to subtly decline the offer.

"All of your clothes have been washed and put out to dry by the maid, your other belongings have been placed in your room and I do not see why you cannot purchase another dress if you find your others to be unsuitable." He seemed to have a dispute for everything.

"Purchase?" She looked at him as if he was daft and didn't realise she was penniless.

"Yes, I have accounts set up in most stores. Feel free to charge it to my name," he offered.

"I think one of my current dresses will be fine." She tried to mask her shock at his generosity.

"Annie, you just said they were inapt. I will arrange for Garrick to take you in town," he said as he turned to walk away.

"That is unnecessary," she called after him. He turned back to her when he reached the door.

"Have a lovely day, Annie." He wasn't meaning to be rude by ignoring her, it was just his way of saying the conversation was over and that she would be going in town to buy new clothes. After his trademark smile he left. She thought to herself that her stay was going to be an interesting one with a man as assertive as Eli. She didn't realise how right she was.
CHAPTER 6

Garrick had left Annie at the most elite seamstress in town. The waiting room alone was lavish, with its plush, oversized white chairs. Flowing, red velvet curtains hid the rest of the store away like it was a special secret. The carpet was ivory and Annie thought to herself that she was glad she wasn't the one having to clean it. Though the store was very feminine in its design it did still tailor for men, which would explain the ones sitting in the waiting room.

Annie felt very out of her element as she awkwardly approached the young attendant standing at the counter. The woman looked to be only a little older than Annie but she was immaculately dressed and had an air of arrogance about her. That haughtiness vanished once she was told which account Annie was charging to, she became instantly accommodating, producing the owner immediately. Annie seemed to come before all other customers and nothing else appeared to matter to the owner except her new client.

The proprietor, Antoinette was French and still had a noticeable accent. Sometimes she would speak and Annie couldn't understand what she was saying. The seamstress had almond hair with flecks of grey throughout and was very petite. She dragged Annie through the red curtains, into the largest fitting room and flustered about to close the drapes.

The same theme flowed into the backrooms, with the same red curtains sectioning off the fitting rooms. Each room had a small stepping stool and huge mirror fixed to the wall, leaving Annie feeling like there was nowhere to hide. Antoinette proceeded to undress Annie without a second thought.

"Annabelle," Antoinette said in her French accent. She had merged Annie's first and last name together, making a whole new name for her. Annie stood there in her undergarments, thankfully hidden behind the red velvet curtain of the dressing room. She looked at herself in the mirror that lined the whole wall, from ceiling to floor, and couldn't help but feel self-conscious.

"We...uh...accentuer your buste. Oui, oui!" Antoinette said as she measured Annie. She mixed her French and English words together when she wasn't concentrating.

"We what my what?" Annie asked feeling lost.

"How do I say....bust, your bust," Antoinette tried.

"Do what with my bust?" Annie was mortified at the direction of Antoinette's idea.

"Show!" She explained seeming excited to have such a splendid model.

"I prefer to stay on the side of modesty, if that is not too much trouble," Annie expressed her opinion hesitantly to the assertive owner. Antoinette seemed to pick and choose what parts of the English language she understood or more so, paid attention to.

Her designs seemed to be a little ahead of their time and quite original from some of the ones that were on display in her store window. Annie was wary as to what she was going to walk out with.

Antoinette muttered something under her breath in French and left before Annie could protest anymore. She walked back in with a dress and slipped it over Annie's head. After she had wriggled into it, Antoinette started fiddling around the skirt as Annie appraised herself in the mirror.

It looked more like a dress that Annie had seen on Grecian women in the books she had read. The line still ran under her bust but was a thick layer of shimmery lace that ran itself up over her shoulders and down her back, becoming the only support for the dress to remain on her body. The sleeves were not puffed like other dresses but just thin pieces of the dress' fabric cut to rest loosely against the shoulder and drape elegantly down her arm. The material was coloured ivory with flowing waves running the length of it. Annie instantly liked it because of its uniqueness and simplicity. It fit perfectly, except for the length which was just a little too long. The only thing that concerned her was that her bust did seem to be a little more noticeable than usual. She tried to stay as modest as she could so woman wouldn't be rude to her.

"Is there something we could do to change the bust line a little?" Annie asked as clearly as she could.

"The bust? Ne," Antoinette answered. Annie stared blankly at her. "No," Antoinette bluntly clarified for her. Here Annie thought she was the customer but all she seemed to be was a life sized doll. The bell rang through the shop indicating a customer's entrance. "Maudit," Antoinette muttered as she walked out to serve them.

"I am here to retrieve my coat." The smooth male voice came to Annie's ears. Forgetting herself, she ran out of the dressing room in a flurry and pushed through the dividing curtain. She came upon Baden waiting at the counter for Antoinette to return with his item.

"Baden," Annie said breathlessly. Baden looked around to his name being called and froze when he saw her. He hadn't realised that she was actually in the store because he had already been thinking of Annie and had thought he was simply recalling the memory of her.

She stood there just staring at him. He was even more incredible than what she could recall. His lips had the most desirable curve to them with the softest pink hue. His eyes were a stunning, clear sky-blue and his wild, perfect hair was ink black, yet somehow almost shone blue when the light touched it. His strong jaw was framed with the slightest hint of stubble and he looked breathtaking. It felt like he towered over her with his broad shoulders and strong body. He seemed to ooze strength and power.

"Annie," he said after he had been silent for what felt like forever. He seemed to swallow hard but she wasn't sure if that was a good thing or not.

He was dressed to perfection, his pants black with a crisp white shirt to complement. His shoes were polished flawlessly and remained unblemished from walking. He wasn't wearing all the fussy extras that most men wore but he looked even better than all of them. Her heart sank as she thought he must be going somewhere if he was dressed so well. He definitely looked like he was trying to impress someone but who was it? Something sparked inside of her that she had never felt before...she realised that she was jealous. Before either of them could speak Antoinette returned with his jacket.

"Sir," she said handing him the jacket. Baden gave her some money and took the formal looking coat he had ordered. He turned to Annie and half smiled but she was too stunned to do anything but stare at him. Antoinette started to shoo her back into the dressing room and Baden turned to leave.

"This is fine, Antoinette. Please put this on Eli Brighton's account," Annie instructed as she went after Baden. She was about to run out the door but she had no shoes on. She ran back into the dressing room, stepped into her slippers and went after him.

"Your things, Annabelle," Antoinette called after her.

"Please place them in a carrier for me," Annie called as she went out the door. "Baden," she called after him.

Baden walked a few more steps then stopped and slowly turned to her. She walked up to him cautiously, the nerves kicking around in her stomach. The hour was late in the afternoon and there weren't many people about, keeping their meeting more private. As she approached he looked down at her dress and she suddenly felt very self-conscious. She went to fold her arms across her chest but felt it would be too obvious. She didn't want to make any sudden movements in case it caused him to disappear, as if he was a wild animal ready to flee. She finally made it up to him and stopped not too far from where he stood.

"Mr. Brighton seems to be making good use of his money," Baden remarked, sounding angry. She wasn't sure how he had heard her say that because he had been out the door. She must have yelled it. She started to wonder if he knew Eli.

"He is quite generous in my time of need," she explained. Baden's eyes narrowed.

"Need?" Baden asked, concern obvious in his voice.

"The predicament of being homeless has come upon me suddenly and he has offered to aid me for a time," she informed softly. She felt anxious, as if she was making an excuse to a school teacher as to why she was late to lessons.

"You are living with him?" He asked after realising the situation. This time Annie thought she could hear jealousy in his voice, it was easier to detect after she had realised her own feelings. She nodded hoping he wouldn't become angry. Antoinette ran up to them with Annie's old dress wrapped in brown paper. She handed it to Annie and she grabbed it in a daze, she had completely forgotten that she had even been to Antoinette's.

"Come back to me again, Annabelle," she said. Annie smiled and nodded, she liked this seamstress. Antoinette left with a grateful smile and Baden and Annie were left alone once again. She looked back to him and it surprised her how he seemed to become even more magnificent every time she saw him.

"Are you off somewhere?" He asked eyeing her dress again, his gaze distinctly hovering around her neck. It sent a shiver down her spine.

"Eli..." Annie paused when she saw the anger in Baden's eyes after she said Eli's name so intimately. "Mr. Brighton has asked me to dinner..." Annie couldn't help how shy she felt around Baden. She had never really been nervous around men before and it was completely new for her.

"So then that is it?" He asked a little harshly.

"Is what it?"

"I was unaware that you and...Mr. Brighton..." the words came out strained. "Were something of an item."

"We most certainly are not!" Annie said indignantly. Baden studied her as if to gauge the truth in her words.

"And how are your feelings towards him?" Baden didn't seem to mind that he was stepping over the boundaries of social etiquette. Annie didn't notice, all she was concerned about was making her feelings about Eli clear.

"I can assure you that they are strictly of the most respectful manner and I do not wish for our association to be construed as romantic," Annie said confidently. A small twitch that was almost a smile came to Baden's lips. He stepped towards her and she moved back just a little but they were much closer than they had been a few seconds ago.

"And how would you like our association to be construed?" His warm breath melted over her and she felt like she could pass out from the pleasure of it.

"That is....is...certainly...uh," she stumbled over her words. "An interesting topic to raise." When she saw the pleasure he seemed to be getting from her inability to answer she thought giving it back to him would work a treat.

"It may be best if we bring this back to your perspective of our association?" She suggested smugly. Far off in the distance Baden heard Garrick heading for Antoinette's store and it stole the fun right out of him.

"Another time, Annie." She loved when he said her name. He gently touched the trimming of her shoulder and looked at her intently. "It is a lovely dress on such a divine creature. It will be fortunate eyes that witness your exquisiteness tonight at dinner," he said softly then he walked away. She felt a longing to follow him but something held her back.

Baden seemed to keep so much to himself. One moment he would act as if he was on her side then he appeared to erect a partition of arrogance and refuse to let her see who he was. Whoever he was, she was determined to find out.

Annie went and sat on the wooden bench out the front of Antoinette's store. She was waiting for Garrick to come back for her but she also wanted a moment to bask in the excitement of seeing Baden. She couldn't help but smile to herself in delight that she had seen him again. Saw what he looked like in the daylight, spoke with him and felt him close to her. Such simple things that brought her so much elation...maybe she was going mad? Being thrilled over ordinary socialising seemed silly to her. But they weren't just the usual, boring interactions she had with everyone else. They were with Baden and that made it completely different, he made it special.

Baden stood across the street, standing just in the alleyway so he could still see Annie but she couldn't see him. He watched her as she smiled to herself and before he could stop it, a small smile crept onto his lips. She looked resplendent as she sat in the soft glow of the afternoon sun. Her hair swayed gently in the calm breeze and his heart skipped a beat when he thought she looked in his direction. For a moment he thought she had spotted him but his heart sank when she turned away without noticing. And then he felt foolish, standing there watching her. He looked down at his clothes and almost rolled his eyes at himself. So many years he dressed like a peasant because he simply didn't care about anyone else's opinion and now he wore the most expensive clothes that money could buy. All for what...this girl whose soul confounded him? He decided that he should leave, this time for good.

Before he turned to walk away he took one last glance at her, to make sure he would always remember her soul. And with that one glimpse he hesitated and once again doubted who he was.

"Miss Belle," Garrick said approaching Annie as she sat on the bench. She turned and smiled as best she could, she was still overwhelmed from Baden's presence. Garrick took her things from her as soon as he was in reach. "It is time for dinner," he advised.

"Is it that time already?" She asked. She stood, brushing her new dress clean of any dust and looked around in shock at the time.

"Mr. Brighton commonly has his dinner at an earlier hour as he usually is busy in the evenings," Garrick explained as they walked up to the carriage. Annie became curious as to why Eli was out at night so often. "Are you dressed or would you like to return to the manor? Mr. Brighton will not mind waiting," Garrick assured.

"No, Garrick. We may go now, I will tousle my hair on the ride to dinner and hope for a creative masterpiece," she said. He smiled at her fun.

"I am sure you will do a fine job of it, Miss Belle." He opened the door of the carriage and held his hand out to assist her. She took it appreciatively and stepped into the seat.

"Thank you." Annie smiled at this friendly man who she liked more each time they talked. He latched the door shut and soon they were on their way to dinner.
CHAPTER 7

Annie sat across from Eli at the table and they ordered straight away. He wore a lovely full suit, complete with all the extravagant, unnecessary trimmings that were obviously made of the finest material. Everything was faultless and he looked the picture of perfection. The restaurant was one of the most expensive in town, its dim lighting and rich feel made it popular amongst the wealthy. It was extremely exclusive, with only a few select tables in the dining room with the settings arranged perfectly. Even the waiters were better dressed than some of the patrons. She felt a little out of place because all she had done was bustle her hair atop her head with some pins. Though it may not have been the neatest hairstyle Eli still found it rather appealing, showing off the porcelain skin of her neck.

"Do you enjoy your status, Eli?" Annie felt free enough to ask. He seemed quite open and straight forward about most things so she didn't see a problem being the same way with him. He took a sip of wine before he answered.

"I am grateful for the easy lot I have been offered in life. It makes other things I must do more manageable," he answered.

"And what are the other things you must do?" She wondered aloud trying to act nonchalant. He may be an open person but he was also very mysterious. He watched her from across the table.

"Let us talk about your day, Annie. Tell me, what did you think of Antoinette?" He decidedly changed the subject. She wouldn't have fallen into the trap but he lowered his gaze to her dress and she became distracted by it.

"She is a charming woman. Controversial name," Annie commented. She played with the loose, wispy strands of hair around her neck in an effort to try and cover herself better.

"Yes, she relocated here to start anew. I have found her to be quite talented in her chosen profession. Just look at the lovely dress she has made you." Annie chose to take a sip of wine instead of look at the dress. "Or I believe it is more so the wearer of the dress that makes it so."

Annie had no idea why she wasn't responding to how forward Eli was being. She appreciated the compliments and his help but his attention was lost on her. He was handsome, wealthy, enjoyable and intelligent. She trusted him to respect her so why didn't she care more? Maybe he knew he was all those things and that was part of the problem? The thing that really bothered her most was that Baden wasn't as forward.

Annie looked off to the other side of the restaurant and saw Baden sitting in the furthest corner of the room. Her eyes widened in shock before she regained her composure. He smiled a cheeky little smile and sat with his hands clasped together just watching her. Everyone seemed to be ignoring his presence, patrons and even waiters ignored him.

"Annie, what is the matter?" Eli asked looking around to the direction she was facing. Just as he did a waiter came up and started serving their food. Annie breathed a sigh of relief that Eli hadn't seen Baden, not that she knew why she kept Baden a secret. When the waiter had moved out of their way Baden was gone and Annie couldn't help but feel disappointed.

When Annie and Eli were part way through their meal, people who knew Eli came up and greeted him while Annie remained quiet and polite. They were introduced to her and you could see the spark of curiosity in their eyes in question of the relationship between her and Eli. It made her feel uncomfortable and she was glad when they left.

During the meal she felt more than one set of eyes on her constantly but decided to ignore the feeling as best she could. Soon enough they were in the carriage on their way back to the manor.

"Would you like to see your friends at Miss Danes' manor?" Eli surprised her by asking.

"I do not believe Miss Danes would appreciate me intruding on her household." Annie looked out the window trying to hold back tears.

"Well, Miss Danes does not need to know. She will be travelling shortly and we can pay a visit after she leaves," he planned mischievously. She turned and looked at him, feeling almost hopeful.

"I..." Annie wasn't sure what to say. Would that be wrong if she went behind Miss Danes' back? "That would be perfect!" She decided it wouldn't be after how Miss Danes had thrown her out.

After a while of silence Eli spoke.

"She only threw you out because she was jealous of you, Annie," he said to try and comfort her.

"The reasons are useless to me. I have no need for an excuse," she said. Still, she was grateful for the compliment. He smiled a little to himself at her way. She was strong and made the best of situations that were thrown at her. He admired that very much and what made her even more incredible was that she was beyond compare in her exquisiteness. It was like she was an undiscovered treasure, hidden away...until now.

Soon they were home and Eli jumped out of the carriage to help Annie. He held out his hand for her but as she took it she also tripped on the length of her dress. She tumbled into his arms and he caught her easily. She peered up through her falling tresses and stared into his face. The slightest smile slipped across his lips as he steadied her.

"We may have to get Antoinette to adjust that hem for you," Eli suggested, breaking the tension. He had to be somewhere and he didn't want to be distracted by what could happen between them. She let out an awkward laugh and turned to walk inside. Eli waited a moment before he headed for the stables. He thought to himself that it was going to be a long night.

When Annie was inside Garrick found her and took her to her new room. He had headed home after he dropped her at the restaurant to prepare her accommodation at Eli's request. She felt bad for not even realising that he hadn't been driving the carriage on the way back. She walked into her new room and there was already a fire lit, which warmed the room and rid it of the cool night.

The bed was just as large as Eli's and the furniture was quite similar to the theme of the house. Settees sat in front of the fire, day beds lined each window and an ottoman sat at the end of the bed. There was definitely no shortage of sitting space. A small but stylish writing desk sat off in the corner near the fireplace, two bedside tables accompanied the bed and Carcel burners sat on each. And lastly there was an extravagant closet with adjoining draws that held her clothes.

There was a large, white gift box with a red ribbon tied around it sitting on her bed. She ran and jumped on the bed in excitement. When she had settled down she carefully opened it. There was a note resting on top of the tissue paper. It read:

Annie,

These may be more appropriate for sleeping in,

compliments of Antoinette.

Eli.

She placed the letter down and lifted the tissue paper to find an array of women's sleepwear. He really did think of everything. She dressed by the warm fire in a white, lacy nightgown. It was a rather revealing number and Annie thought that maybe Antoinette had also misconstrued her relationship with Eli. Brushing off the thought she went to bed in the thoughtful gift from her rescuer.

In the early hours of the morning there was a tapping at Annie's window. She woke in a daze then crept over through the dark to investigate. She peeked over the window sill and could scarcely make out a silhouette but it could have just been the shadow of the trees below her room. After a moment of inspection a person stepped into the moonlight and it caught her breath. Baden had been throwing small stones against her window. She stood and opened the window, leaning over just enough to see a little better.

"What are you doing, Baden?" She whispered as clearly as she could through the cold night.

"I was simply playing a game of throws which you now have interrupted!" He whispered back. She rolled her eyes at his joke and he smiled innocently.

"Then I shall leave you to your game," she bluffed, her breath coming out as frost. She reached out her arm to grab the windows and pretended to close them, pausing when he stepped forward.

"Do you not want to join me?" He asked sheepishly. She looked daftly at him, unsure of what he meant.

"I will freeze. How are you not frozen cold, Baden?" Everything in her wanted to go with him but how was she meant to get down stairs without being heard? She didn't know the layout of the manor well enough.

"Then I shall join you," he proclaimed through a whisper.

He started to climb the vine inhabited lattice, making it look as easy as walking up a flight of steps. She stepped back into the room and he silently jumped into it, landing close to her. He then turned and closed the windows. The room was dark, lit only by the moon and the dying embers of the fire. He looked beautiful in the shadows, like a dream that you can't quite remember but try so desperately never to forget.

"How did you manage that?" She asked keeping her voice hushed.

"I have had practice." He mimicked her soft tone which made his warm breath wash over her face.

He brushed his black suit pants and formal navy blue coat clean, which looked all buttoned up and neat even though he had just climbed in it. Again he looked irresistible and it made her worry that maybe he had just come from an outing with a woman. She hated these new emotions she had just discovered, jealousy, nerves, obsessing. She felt like she didn't even know herself anymore.

"You climb many a window lattice, do you?" She folded her arms unimpressed.

"No, Annie. I climb in general." He looked around the room for a brief moment. "Expedient," he summarised the room into one word.

He looked down to her nightgown and she realised she was rather under dressed. It buttoned loosely around her breasts and the material was thin and white. Part of her wanted to cover herself in case he didn't like something he saw and the other part hoped he found her appealing in every way.

"Tell me, Baden...why were you in the cemetery that night you saved me?" She had to keep in mind that this person could be dangerous.

"I might ask you the same thing?" He countered.

"I was taking a shorter route home," she answered without hesitation, throwing her arms down by her side in an attempt to demand his answer.

"I do not wish to tell you," he said flatly and stepped closer to her seemingly without cause. Annie had to take a moment to catch her breath.

"What happened to my attacker?" The words were barely audible. She was practically asking him if he had murdered someone, all alone in her room with no way to defend herself. Though she wasn't afraid of him...well, maybe just a little.

"He received his due course." Baden stared straight into her eyes and she held his gaze, refusing to look away. Her heart was beating erratically against her chest. She could only be guessing what his words might mean but knowing full well within herself the truth of them. But somehow she still wanted him to stay. He started to lift his hand and she froze for a moment which caused him to hesitate. When she could see he wasn't going to do her any harm she relaxed a little and he continued with what he was going to do.

He gently placed the back of his fingers against her cheek and slowly slid them across her soft skin. It was the single most amazing sensation she had ever felt. Her body tingled all over and she had to hold back a shiver, which she didn't quite manage.

"Baden," she whispered his name softly. Her warm breath created a dissipating mist, which was strange because she felt anything but cold with him so close. He opened his mouth to speak but there was a sudden knock at the door.

She turned around brusquely and looked towards the door but by the time she turned back to Baden he was gone. The windows were now open and all that was left was the cold night air, her nightgown undulating in the breeze. There was another sudden knock. She snapped out of her dazed state, shut the windows silently and quickly went to the door. On her way she grabbed a bed throw and pulled it around herself. She opened the door to find Garrick standing there, pale with fright.

"Garrick, whatever is the matter?" She asked panicked.

"Mr. Brighton, he has been hurt," he squeezed the words out by what seemed a miracle.

"What are you waiting for?" Annie said when he just stood there. "Lead the way," she insisted. She followed as he turned and started walking. She was usually calm and collected when in intense situations but on her way to Eli's room she couldn't help the fear that crept over her at the condition she might find him in. As they approached the door it seemed she was about to find out.
CHAPTER 8

Annie walked into the room after Garrick and all she could see was blood. Eli was sprawled across the bed with the sheets thrown back, resting in a pool of his own blood. He woozily looked over to her as she approached.

"It looks much worse than it is," his voice was covered in husky pain.

"Do not waste energy in speaking," she scolded. "Garrick, please get some cloths and hot water. Also, some pain relief if you have it," she ordered. Here came the Annie she knew; strong, composed and taking control. Garrick rushed off to do as she asked. Dropping the bed throw she had wrapped around herself, she straightened out Eli's pillows and removed his shoes.

"Eli, we must take your coat off and lay you on the bed appropriately," she instructed. He found it hard to concentrate on anything but the pain. He simply nodded and tried to move. He let out painful moans through his efforts and gave up almost instantly.

"It hurts too much," he gasped. Annie saw no use for it and took charge. She stepped up onto the bed and kneeled next to him on the mattress for the best position to manage her efforts. Her nightgown was getting stained with blood but she didn't have much choice.

"I am going to undress you. If you have any reservations speak now." She paused a moment and he just shook his head.

She carefully pulled his arms out of his jacket as best she could. Now she had to pull it out from under him. She leaned down and slipped her hand under his back to pull at the material of his jacket to try and slide it out that way. His weight was implausible, it was as difficult as if she was trying to tug it from under a dead horse. Her face was close to his in her attempts to regain the jacket but she didn't feel uncomfortable with the closeness. She actually wondered how someone so drained could look so handsome. He started to become delirious from the pain.

"Annie, you should stay here forever," Eli said, his eyes closed and head resting against the bed. She laughed at his silliness in such a serious situation.

"Eli, there are more pressing matters to attend to," she said through a strained voice.

She decided just to grab one side of the jacket with two hands and pull as hard as she could. She managed to get the coat out but the quick release made her stumble back and fall off the bed. Leaving the jacket on the floor she jumped up again to get back to work.

"Why did you have to wear every piece of clothing known to man?" She whispered her complaint as she measured the rest of her task. Her hair fell onto her face and she wiped it away with the back of her hand where it wasn't stained with blood.

"There does not seem to be a pressing matter as prominent as you anymore," he slurred his words a little. She ignored him as she unbuttoned his shirt. She pulled it open easily and carefully dragged his arms out of the sleeves once again. She managed to pull his shirt out from under him much easier than his jacket, this time only falling back onto the mattress not completely off the bed. She threw his blood-drenched shirt on the ground and inspected her next mission. Blood covered his bare chest and she wasn't sure where the injury was located. Garrick ran in with the cloths and hot water.

"Here." He passed them to her.

"Do you have the pain relief?" She asked as she took the items from him.

"Uh...no." He quickly ran out the door to collect some, closing it behind him. Eli began to laugh.

"What are you laughing at?" Annie asked as she wet one of the cloths and started to wipe away the blood.

"He never has been good at dealing with this." Eli kept his eyes closed.

"You have been this way before?" She asked as she continued her task.

"Many times sweet Annie." He was starting to sound drunk.

"And how did you come to be in this predicament?" The blood was wiping clear and she found where the wound was, just below his left shoulder. It had already stopped bleeding and didn't look as bad as she thought it would. In fact, it looked as if he had been stabbed by something but the skin was already closing up.

"Did you know your last name means 'beautiful' in French?" He prattled nonsensically. "Which is an understatement!" Annie laughed at his words. She had seen her father drunk and heard the ridiculous things he had said and Eli's demeanour reminded her of that. Not that Eli was drunk but his pain seemed to be eliciting a similar response.

As she finished wiping the blood away he was left bare-chested. His body was flawless and had defined muscle that covered every inch of it. His arms looked ridiculously strong even as they lay limp beside him. She had not seen a man shirtless before but she was sure this was not a common occurrence. Most of the men she saw had fat bellies that could not be hidden with any amount of clothing. She couldn't help but reach out and touch his skin with her fingertips. It was beyond spectacular. Even in a weakened state he was solid and tempting.

Annie looked up to find Eli's eyes on her. She was glad the light was dim in his room because she was blushing from head to foot. She went to move her hand away but he grabbed it before she could get too far. Her hand was pinned between his chest and hand. Suddenly it had turned from a situation where she had the control to one where she had lost all of it. Somehow he managed to pull himself up and he pulled her closer to him. He drew her in so close that he pulled her onto his lap and it made her feel nervous, in a good way.

"What are you doing?" She whispered, their faces just inches apart.

"I seem to be feeling much better," he said as he watched her, desire obvious in his face.

"Your wound...it looks almost...healed?" She said with confusion and shock in her voice. He pulled her even closer still and she felt his need for her. How was he so strong when he had just been so feeble?

"I am a fast healer." He whispered the words into her mouth and it seemed to fill her with his craving.

She forgot every other thought other than the sudden need to kiss him. He kept one hand around her waist and used the other to run across the skin of her neck and down to her chest. When she didn't protest he slowly started to slip his hand down her loose top. Her breathing became deeper and her chest rose and fell as his hand drifted along her skin. Just before he reached his desired destination there was a knock at the door. Startled, Annie began to move away but he held her so she couldn't.

"I am much better Garrick. Just let me rest for the time being," Eli called out, never taking his eyes off Annie.

"Would you like the pain relief?" Garrick's voice was slightly muffled through the door.

"No, thank you. It seems I will not be in need of it," he replied impatiently. After a few heartbeats Eli heard Garrick leave.

"I think it best if I go," Annie said breathlessly.

"Please, Annie," Eli almost pleaded.

"You are hurt." How could she even be doing this? This wasn't like her at all!

"I am not hurt anymore." He reluctantly moved his hand away from her chest, took one of her hands and pushed it hard against his injury. She looked at it in disbelief, it looked even more improved than before.

"What are you?" She pulled her hand away from him, looking almost fearful that she would catch whatever it was the healed him. He looked a little hurt from her words.

"I am someone who wants you." She looked to him and could see the seriousness in his eyes.

"You do not even know me." There was part of her that wanted to run away but somewhere deep inside she wanted to do much more than kiss him.

"I do, you are good. You are exceptional. You make me want to forget everything I know." He pulled her closer and it made her forget some of her reservations. She leaned her hands against his chest to try and put distance between them but all it did was distract her. Eli leaned in to kiss her and she didn't move. As his warm lips drew closer to hers she wasn't sure what she wanted.

Before she had to make a choice the windows burst open and the cold wind ran through the room. They both shot their head around to the sudden interruption and the moment was broken for Annie. She moved off him, relieved that she had been saved from doing something she might regret and he went to close the window. When he turned back around she was gone.

Annie ran to her room. As soon as she made it there she hurried in frantically, closing and locking the door behind her. She did it mostly to restrain herself rather than keep Eli out, she hadn't known him very long but she knew he would never hurt her like that. She backed into the room, avoiding touching anything because his blood was still on her hands. She bumped into something and turned to see what it was.

Baden stood there and she jumped in fright from the shock. From what she could see, the look on his face was one of anger. He looked down at her hands and took one by the wrist a little roughly. He pulled her closer and inspected her with his eyes.

"It was so kind of you to help the ailing Eli," he said sarcastically. He waited for her to say something. How had he known? How had he even gotten back into her room? What she didn't know was that he had thrown the window in Eli's room open and interrupted their moment.

"He was hurt," she said avoiding saying anything that might reveal their intimate moment. Why did she feel guilty for it?

"You certainly assisted him out of his agony," he remarked accusingly. She tried to pull her hand away but he tightened his grip, not enough to hurt her just enough to stop her.

"I did not intend for that to happen," she defended herself seeing no use in pretending he didn't know. "How do you know?"

"Some things you just acquire a sense for." He sounded disgusted.

"Nothing happened!" She said panicked, not wanting him to think what he was thinking. He let go of her wrist and it felt cold without his touch. She let her hand drop to her side and she just stood there wishing she could make him understand.

"Did you want it to?" He shocked her by asking.

He stepped so close he was against her and he used her hips to ease her closer to him. She let her hands drop behind her because they were messed with blood but it didn't stop her heart from picking up and her breathing to stagger. Her face was in line with his chest and she couldn't help but wonder what he might look like with his shirt off.

"No," she whispered. Baden stared at her seeing the truth.

After hesitating a moment he let her go and stepped away. He could see in Annie's soul that she was confused about it all and that she had made the choice to not take her relationship with Eli any further. She had only been acting out of her natural attraction to someone and it made him jealous, though he had no right to be because she wasn't his. And he knew she never should be.

"You should want him. He could give you what you need," he said, almost sounding defeated. He started to back away.

"Please stay," she asked but he was already out the window. She ran and looked out over the grounds but she couldn't see him. With a heavy heart she closed the window as best she could with her messed hands.

She looked over to her nightstand and there was a wash cloth and a bowl of water, Garrick had obviously anticipated her need for it. She washed as best she could and changed into a clean nightdress. She started to realise she had no idea about life and especially the part of her life that involved men. Her life had been so simple a week ago and now it was more complicated that she could understand. Giving up she went to bed and tried to push everything out of her mind. The only problem was Baden was permanently etched in there.
CHAPTER 9

Annie woke the next day dreading having to see Eli. Maybe he wouldn't remember last night? Who was she kidding, of course he would. He would remember how she left him there without an explanation. But why did she owe him one?

After it all became too much she thought it would be best if she just faced her problem head on. She got dressed in one of her casual, leaf-green dresses and tied her hair back into a braid. She made her way downstairs to find Eli but the house was vacant of everyone.

"Is anyone there?" She called through the emptiness as she stood at the bottom of the stairs. When no one responded she walked through the house. She started downstairs in the kitchen then went to the parlour. When they came up empty she went to every other room on the first floor. No one could be found.

There was one door she hadn't looked in. For some reason she hesitated before she entered. It felt like a personal room, though why she thought that was beyond her. The door was closed and she had never seen into the room before. Deciding there was no reasoning behind her hesitation she opened the door and went in. It was a library. She almost laughed to herself when she saw the tall walls lined with endless books.

A huge, intricately designed carpet covered most of the floor, with gold and browns running through it. An enormous window sat at the far side and was the length of the entire wall. A large, dark wooden desk was placed in front of it with papers neatly stacked on top and a comfortable looking chair sitting behind. It looked like Eli's coat was hanging on the back of the large, leather chair. A few reading chairs and even a day bed were placed throughout the room, giving a welcoming feel to the atmosphere. The day bed looked enticing, with its red, velvety material and gold cushions.

Annie had always loved books and dreamed of having a library as big as this so she moved over to inspect the collection. There had to be easily at least a thousand books on just one wall covered with the shelves, which would mean thousands of books altogether.

As she scanned the books there were ones that looked old and worn and others new. Some covered topics from various centuries of history but most of them were about myths and legends through time. She came across one with a strange title: Methods of the Soul Snatcher.

For one reason or another she found the title intriguing so she picked it up and took it to the day bed. As she walked she tripped over her own two feet and dropped the book, she tried to recover it but she missed. To her relief it landed on the seat she was heading to, which was the day bed. She picked the book up but had noticed that it made a strange sound when it had hit the cushions. It made a thud which would mean there was something hard underneath. She looked around to see if anyone was coming. Should she look?

Before she thought about whether or not it was morally right to snoop through a man's belongings who had taken her in when she had nowhere else to go, she bent down and inspected the settee. Under the cushions there looked to be a thin, wooden plank, as if it was the lid to a chest. The cushions were stuck to the top so she couldn't move them to get a better look. Maybe she could open it? Again, ignoring her conscience, with book in hand she lifted the lid.

The cushions didn't fall as they were stuck to the lid. Inside the secret case was lined with a dark, velvet material. It had grooves dug out to fit its contents perfectly. Immaculate daggers lay vertically, lined across the length of the bed. There were ten of them. Annie thought back to the writing device Eli had when he interviewed her, what had he called it...chromium? It seemed that the handle had been fashioned from the same metal but the blade was entirely different. In fact it looked like the blade was made from...polished bone.

The blade was sleek and thick and subtly curved into a sharp point. Somehow it had been polished so it looked almost reflective but you could still see natural ridges running along it. The handle was just short enough for a hand to grip but still rather elegant, with four strips of the metal twisted softly around the air to meet at the top. It was lovely how it twisted so you could actually see through the handle. The spires jutting out at the base of the handle were the same as the other one just shorter. All together it was a stylish design and the most unique thing about the objects was they seemed to be almost luminous.

The instruments were crafted to perfection which made them look menacing and all together frightening. Surely there could only be one use for them.

A creak in the floor boards brought her out of her inspection and she brusquely turned to see what made the noise. Eli stood at the door witnessing her intrusive act. She jumped up and dropped the book accidentally. It made a loud thump in unison with the bang of the wooden lid closing. The book sprawled open until it settled on a random page on the floor. Annie's heart raced as she tried to think of what this person had done with the ominous looking weapons.

"I wandered in here looking for you and..." She faltered. And what? Got to snooping through all of your things and possibly found evidence to support allegations I might make of you being a murderer? Eli stood there with a stern face, as if he had so much anger he was frozen. She swallowed hard and tried to find something to busy her hands with. When she found nothing, she nervously fiddled with the material of her skirt.

Eli remained silent and the tension in the room grew until it was palpable. Finally he unfroze but the relief Annie felt from his movements was soon overshadowed with fear as he slowly closed the door and locked it. The sound of the latch clicking sounded like the gavel of a guillotine. He turned and faced her.

"Who are you, Annie?" He asked keeping his tone even but menacing. She placed her hand against her chest, shocked at his question.

"I? Who am I?" She asked. "Who are you?" She chided. He started walking towards her and she moved back. With each step he took she tried to take two but he seemed to be gaining on her. She made it behind the desk and he stopped when he reached the day bed she had been standing at. He opened the lid and looked in for a moment before he let the lid drop, then he picked the book up from the ground. He looked closely at the title.

"Soul snatchers interest you, do they?" He asked bringing his eyes back to her.

"The fact that I am unaware of what it is indicates that I would have to disagree," she reasoned. She had no idea how she was being so brave, this person could be a psychopath and she was locked in a room alone with him. From her experience he was incredibly strong and fast which made this whole situation worse for her.

Eli placed the book down on the seat and started towards her again. Annie braced herself and started to slowly move around the desk. Eli ran after her and she sprinted for the door but he was too fast and cut across the room, catching her easily. He grabbed her around the waist and pushed her against the shelves, being careful not to harm her. He used his body to hold her against the shelves then grabbed her wrists and held her arms above her head. Annie was panting from the effort and he was completely fine.

Their faces were close and her heavy breathing blew against his face as she exhaled. She could feel his chest rising and falling evenly against hers. He looked at her for a moment before he spoke.

"What do you know of soul snatchers?" He asked.

"I am telling you that I know nothing. I swear to you, Eli." She tried to subdue the panic she felt growing in her.

"How did you find the daggers?" He questioned.

"As I said, I came to find you. I then decided on a book to read and as I walked to the day bed I stumbled and my book fell onto the cushions. It made a strange noise and then...I...opened it." It sounded really bad and she trailed off trying to ignore the fact she had done the wrong thing by looking.

"Why that book?" He asked with suspicion in his voice.

"It had an interesting title," she explained innocently. After measuring her honesty and how weak she felt, he lowered her hands to her side but made sure he kept hold of them. His body remained against hers, partly for precaution but mostly because he wanted to be close to her.

"I see..." he said. Silence filled the room as he realised his mistake in accusing her.

"I think I should be the one asking the questions," Annie suggested. She felt a little more at ease as Eli's face became softer.

"Well there seems to be no walking away from this without an explanation now," he half joked, realising she was innocent. "What is it that you would like to know?"

"Everything."

"I am not sure if that is the best idea," he warned.

"Then I will have to find another residence. I will not stay somewhere I do not feel safe." She struggled against him trying to move away but he kept her pinned.

"I am not the one you should be running away from," he cautioned.

"Then who is?" Annie jutted her face toward him in question. He searched her face for something she wasn't sure of and he let out a sigh.

"I will tell you but this is something I am trusting you with," he said seriously. She thought for a moment about whether she wanted to know or not. It seemed like something that could lead her into trouble. Her own internal warnings did nothing to tame the curiosity that had already planted itself inside her and she decided that she wanted to know. How bad could it be?

"Shall we take a seat?" Annie suggested. Eli released her and moved over to the day bed that started all of this. "Fine choice," she said sarcastically as she sat next to him.

"What I am about to tell you may sound ridiculous." He looked at her as he spoke. "Correction, will sound ridiculous."

"Eli, I am sure whatever it is I will be able to manage," she assured.

"Have you ever heard the words soul snatcher?" He asked half trying to shock her into taking it seriously.

"Only just now after I found that book," she answered, laughing a little at how silly this all felt. When Eli didn't join in her laughter she soon sobered and became a little fearful.

"This is not a joke, Annie. They are much more than dangerous." Annie wasn't sure what to do with his words, laugh or run screaming. The rational part of her felt like shunning everything he said but, from the strangeness that had recently surrounded her life, part of her grabbed hold of the fear and believed what he said.

"Then tell me, what are they?" She asked warily, feeling the gravity of it all.

Without a word he stood and started to search through the books. He found a book and walked back to his seat, flicking through the pages intently.

"They are beings that should be treated with caution and avoided at all costs!" He passed the book to her, opened to half way, and then went to retrieve another book from the shelves. She looked at the pages, it had a picture of a disgusting looking man, bloated and half dead.

"How does anyone know of these things?" She asked, scrunching her face up in revulsion at the image.

"Attacks. Some snatchers are careless and do not think about consequences. They can come in all different shapes and sizes and can be either men or women." Eli grabbed another book as Annie was left shocked at his words. He opened to a specific page, handed it to her and walked back to the shelves. "Some look like rotting corpses and others are enticing creatures. It depends on the type of snatcher that created them."

"How do people become a...snatcher?" She asked as she inspected the books.

"With bane that is administered into the victim. It can either be ingested by a human drinking from the creature themselves or by the snatcher biting them and injecting it into them," Eli explained, handing yet another book to her.

"It is fine, Eli," she said refusing the book politely. "At this rate it looks as if you will hand me the whole shelf. Just sit and tell me." He nodded then took his seat next to her. "From my understanding of the word 'bane', it refers to something that causes death, especially from poison. But do people die after being infected?"

"The fluid they produce is injected into the victim. It stops their heart beating for a time until the transformation is complete, then the heart restarts," he clarified. "So in a way it is a death but not technically."

"So it is poisonous?" She wondered.

"We consider it to be a corruptive influence in a human's system, so yes." He watched her carefully to ensure she was not too overwhelmed. "The bane replaces the human's blood which is one of the reasons why they have the option of drinking blood to survive. If the bane is not subdued then it becomes too..." He searched for the word. "Blistering within them and it burns through their skin, killing them. Am I going too fast?"

"No, it is fine. Continue." Annie was overwhelmed but fascinated.

"From what we know snatchers are ageless. If you are transformed in old age you lose some of the age and remain looking possibly a decade younger. However, if someone is changed during their physical peak they are frozen in eternal youth. Bane maintains the body at its peak but also influences a person's capabilities. It makes you better at everything but also allows you to endure things for longer. For example snatchers can run faster and longer, they do not need rest or food, they can see better and hear well. How are you coping with this?" He checked with her.

"Fine." She was intrigued to know more.

"They only use their heightened skills when it is necessary. For instance, if they were defending themselves against a danger or they were preying on a victim. Otherwise they just come across as any other ordinary human being because technically they are...just much more improved. The bane sets a person in a mould once it is infused into them," he summarised. "Their bodies are still able to be injured but the bane heals them at a very fast rate and they cannot die the same way humans do."

"So why are some disgusting?" She queried, thinking of the revolting image she had seen.

"There are some that feed off dead bodies because they think it an easy meal. Also the sporadic outbursts of the plague are another way they ingest spoiled blood, any disease ridden blood really. Because bane absorbs the blood it also absorbs its qualities but because they cannot be killed by human disease they become walking, rotting corpses. If they create a person in a diseased state then that human becomes the same," he expounded.

"How did they come to be?" Annie asked.

"Legend has it that at the start of the dark ages there was once a woman so vain she thought sacrificing others would bring her eternal youth. So every few years she would sacrifice someone she lured to fall in love with her to gain longer life. She believed it had to be someone who genuinely loved her, so she would live with them and be with them for years so she was sure that it was true love. Then she would kill them and drink their blood.

After countless deaths by her hand a young man came to her door seeking refuge from a storm. He asked for entrance to her home and she granted it to him. She intended him to be her next victim but she was unaware that this person was apparently a demon in disguise. He offered her eternal youth in exchange for a soul. He said it could not be just any soul, it had to be the soul of the one who loved her most. She said she would easily find a man willing. The demon said it would not do because there would always be one that would love her more than any other...herself." Annie took a sharp breath in and he paused.

"Then what?" She whispered.

"Before she had time to think of the consequences she willingly offered herself. The demon asked how she would manage to sacrifice herself yet be eternally youthful. Again without thought she said she would give her soul if he supplied her body with another source of life. With this as the truly desired result that the demon wanted, he granted her wish without her caring that the conditions were made by him.

Her soul was removed by a simple kiss and she gained eternal youth. She became less human and more demonic, though keeping her human shell. So she gained bane, strength etcetera. The theory it that the demon's aim was for her to sacrifice more human life on a larger scale so he gave her abilities to accomplish it."

"Is it true?" Annie had never been so bombarded with information but she was retaining it.

"I do not know, all I can tell you is; that is the myth and there are soul snatchers today," Eli said diplomatically.

"If the legend is true then from my understanding, the people who are turned by another snatcher would have souls because bane is used instead of a kiss to change them. So people are turned into these creatures but have to battle against this one woman's curse," Annie mused feeling a little sorry for them.

"I am not sure." Eli seemed to become a little guarded and changed the subject of souls rather quickly. "According to the legend the demon specifically had to be welcomed into her home of her own free will. Now a snatcher must be asked into a home before they can enter it, unless they have been welcomed there before their change." Annie nodded, taking it all in. "There is so much more. They were designed to do something far worse than what I have already told you," he started to warn but a knock came at the door.

Annie was startled by the noise, it was so normal compared to everything she was just told. It brought her back to reality but she still felt like she had fallen into a bizarre fairy-tale with a frightening twist. Eli went to the door and answered it.

"Mr. Brighton," Garrick said from the entrance. "Miss Danes is at the door to see you." Eli turned back to Annie who looked just as shocked as he did.

"Stay here," Eli said to her then left the library with Garrick.

"Because I am really going to stay here," Annie said to herself then she snuck out of the room quietly.
CHAPTER 10

Eli silently walked up to the closed door that had Miss Danes behind it. Before he opened it he looked to Garrick in question.

"Why is she standing outside?" He whispered.

"She advised that this would be a hasty visit and did not wish to disturb you any more than necessary." Garrick looked meaningfully at him.

"Does Garrick know?" Annie whispered as she came up behind them. The two men were startled by her unexpected presence.

"Annie, I told you to stay in the library," Eli scolded.

"Why would I stay there?" She argued, both still whispering.

"Did you tell her?" Garrick asked in the shared hushed tone.

"She found the daggers and I almost attacked her thinking she was suspicious!" Eli thought this explanation was enough.

"I will not tell anyone," Annie assured Garrick. Before any of them could continue quarrelling Miss Danes spoke from behind the door.

"Are you there?" Her voice came through muffled. They all looked at each other and Eli slowly opened the door.

"Miss Danes, how are you on this fine day?" He asked. He used the door to lean against as he kept hold of the handle. Annie stood behind Eli and Garrick but Miss Danes stared right at her, completely ignoring the others.

"I am just here to collect what is mine," she said referring to Annie. Eli's hand tightened on the door handle.

"It seems you are referring to Annie, Miss Danes of which you would be mistaken," Eli warned sternly. Miss Danes turned her head sharply to look at him.

"No. I. Am. Not. Mistaken," she said through gritted teeth.

"From my understanding she was found and welcomed into your staff. She was paid for her services and if she had not been dismissed by you then she would have been free to leave at any time. Which means she is not a slave and therefore not your property. And please, do not get me started on my ethical disagreement of slavery or we will be here well into the night," Eli argued rationally. It looked as if Miss Danes was about to explode. The rage was evident on her face, so much so that she almost turned red.

"You cannot keep her," she almost shouted.

"But you see, Miss Danes I can and I will. I do not see you walking in here and taking her. Wait, I believe it is because you cannot," Eli tormented. Miss Danes took a step forward then stopped abruptly, as if she ran into a wall that wasn't there. She clenched her fists beside her and silently fumed.

"You have made a powerful enemy," Miss Danes hissed.

"And you have been here long enough. Do not be mistaken, I will do what I have to Miss Danes and I think you understand exactly what I am saying." Eli slammed the door in her face and locked it.

"Eli, what is going on?" Annie asked as she followed his hurried pace as he made his way back to the library, Garrick in tow.

"She is a snatcher," he explained as he rolled up his sleeves and lifted the day bed's hidden lid.

"Which horse?" Garrick asked.

"Excuse me?" Annie squealed.

"Give me lightning, Garrick," Eli instructed. With that Garrick left for the barn. Eli quickly looked over to his desk as if he just remembered something. He went and grabbed his coat that hung on the back of his desk chair and put it on. He walked back over, picked a dagger from the day bed and slid it into his hidden, interior breast pocket.

"Eli, what is going on?" Annie asked again. He finally looked at her for the first time since entering the room.

"I am sorry to sound so insensitive but if you must have an explanation now then I shall have to be quick." He placed his hands on both of her arms and looked into her eyes. She nodded in understanding so he explained. "I have suspected that Miss Danes was a snatcher for some time now but we are not permitted to terminate one unless there is clear evidence and they pose a threat. Her not being able to walk into the house is all I needed and she has already harmed a human," he said referring to Annie's experience with her. "I was visiting her all those times to try and gain the confirmation I needed."

"Who are you referring to when you say 'we'?" Annie asked. Somehow her life had just become even crazier in the past few seconds.

"That is too long an explanation that I will save for another time but there is another thing." He paused so she nodded for him to continue. "I purposely got you fired. I am so sorry it happened in such a horrible way but I could not stand the thought of you in that house any longer." He felt relieved after admitting his guilt. Annie reached out and touched the cheek Miss Danes had slapped, remembering his extreme reactions that had seemed strange at the time. Eli took her hand in his, leaned in and gently kissed her cheek. "I never meant for you to get hurt like that."

"Sir, your horse is ready," Garrick said from the doorway feeling awkward from having to interrupt their intimate moment. Eli turned to him and nodded.

"Joel is faster at saddling every time," Eli commented about his stable boy, sounding as if he wanted more time with Annie. Garrick left without another word. Eli looked back to Annie when they were alone again. "Do not fret about Miss Danes. She will not be able to harm you as long as you are in my manor, as she has never been invited in. We will talk more when I return," he assured her. She nodded and he moved to leave the room.

"Wait, Eli." Annie paused and waited for him to turn around. "Where are you going?" He smiled easily and warmly at her question.

"To rid the world of one more snatcher!" He proclaimed, almost with excitement in his voice.

Before she could say anything else he was out the door. She went after him but he had already left the premises. How was he going to overpower a snatcher? How was any of this happening? What on earth was happening? Deciding that there was nothing she could do and that worrying wasn't going to help, Annie grabbed the book she had intended to read and took it to her room. She would try to find the answers to her questions by herself.

When she was inside her room she locked the door, she always felt safer when she did. As she turned to walk to her bed she ran into someone. She had just started to let out a scream when Baden covered her mouth and smiled at her. She closed her eyes in relief and he removed his hand.

He was dressed in his usual black suit pants and a clean, loose white peasant shirt. Though he was dressed casually he still looked incredible and it looked as if he had put effort into his appearance. It made her wonder where he had just come from and the spark of jealousy reared its ugly head again. She could see just a little of his shoulder and chest where the shirt drooped off his frame slightly. When he wasn't looking at her she strained to see more but she didn't get the chance often because he kept his eyes stuck to her most of the time.

"Why did you startle me?" She whispered, fearful someone might hear them talking.

"I was not hidden. You were the one who neglected to pay attention," he said cheekily. Annie went to say something but there was a knock at the door.

"Miss Belle, are you alright?" Garrick asked through the door.

"Yes Garrick, I...uh...I thought I saw a mouse. I am just settling down to read a book," she half lied, keeping her eyes on Baden to make sure he didn't disappear. His lips turned up in a small smile, he seemed pleased that she kept him a secret.

"Very well, call if you need anything." With that Garrick left.

"Reading?" Baden quickly took the book from her hands and turned away from her. She tried to grab the book back but he kept it out of her reach.

"'Methods of the soul snatcher', how droll." He smiled as he flicked through the pages.

"Baden, give it back," she demanded as she continued to try and grab it back off him. Before she had time to realise what he was doing, he turned and wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her close to him, the book in his hands behind her back.

"Surely you will not waste your time on such drivel?" He said leaning his face close to hers. If there had been some distance between them there may have been a chance for her to configure an actual response but she simply stared at him, trying to remember how to speak. "I can think of much more productive ways for you to use your time, Annie." He threw the book and it landed on a reading chair close by.

"I just thought..." She struggled to find the words. "A little...light reading would be...sufficient," she stammered. With him she always managed to lose herself.

"Reading myths and fables? I cannot think of a greater waste of time." He let go of her and walked over to the seat where the book lay. When she had some space to breathe she could think more clearly. Did he just come here to insult her?

"I think I will be the judge of my past time!" She said harshly. Who did he think he was, coming there and telling her what to do? "Have you just come to offend me, Baden? And how do you keep finding passage into my room?" She asked as she walked over to inspect the window. The latch wasn't broken and nothing seemed amiss. She looked over to him in question but he was right next to her. She took a step away from him, surprised by his closeness.

"Skilled," he said as if that was enough to explain it. He looked her up and down and a strange look came across his face, it was almost as if he were sad. "Tell me, Annie...are you afraid of me?" He took a step towards her and for a reason she didn't know she took a step back. The same look came across his face. He couldn't decipher the feelings he sensed in her soul and the confusion of it played across his face.

"I would not say afraid." She wasn't sure how she would describe the way he made her feel. "How should I feel?" She turned it around on him instead of responding. He thought for a moment before he answered her.

"Well..." He took another step forward and she took another step back. "Why do you keep doing that?" He asked curtly. She looked at him unsure of what he meant. "Why do you keep moving away from me?" He clarified when he felt her confusion.

She looked down to where she stood in comparison to him and she didn't have an answer. Why was he stepping so close? He slowly moved to take another step forward and she decided to stay where she was. They stood toe to toe, him peering down at her as she looked up into his face. Her breathing fluttered a little and the smallest smile formed on his lips.

"That was not so difficult, was it?" He spoke quietly.

"No," she said just as softly as he had. He gently touched her hands with his fingertips then ran them up along the length of her arms until they rested on her slender neck. It sent a thrill through her.

"Now what was I saying?" He asked seeming distracted by her.

"You were..." she had to take a breath before she could continue. "Advising me how I should feel towards you," she reminded.

"Yes, I was." He tickled along her neck as he spoke and a little shiver made it past her self-control. Again the half smile played across his lips. "If we piece it together logically then maybe we can deduce together the appropriate response?" She barely nodded but he saw it so he went on.

"Firstly, I am practically a stranger to you." The words seemed odd to her because she felt like she knew him, or more so it felt like she trusted him. "Secondly, I seem to break into your room silently and effortlessly." Annie knew she should feel scared of that fact but she didn't. "And lastly, when I ask you to do something you seem not to question my demands. It is as if you find them reasonable." He moved his hands and rested them on her waist.

"So you are advising me to be afraid?" She asked, her mind tangled up in all of the conflicting thoughts. His actions were so different to his words, he was telling her to keep away but he was holding her close. How was she meant to know what that meant?

"You may choose the reaction you believe best suits how you feel," he answered tactfully.

"Who says I do not feel frightened by you?" She bluffed. He looked at her with those clear, blue eyes as if he was hurt by the fact that she might be.

"I notice everything you do and your actions beg to differ. From the way your chest rises and falls more erratically when I am near, as if you are trying to calm yourself. The way your lips quiver ever so slightly when I touch you in certain places." He tightened his grip on her waist and pulled her closer still. "The way you lose your words in my presence." The way he stated his observations made it sound as if he enjoyed her reactions to him quite a bit. What he didn't tell her was that he could sense her soul and it told him more than she ever could.

"To level this one sided exposure, enlighten me as to how you feel towards me?" She asked feeling marginally bolder.

"I believe the question that is fair to ask, in conjunction with your previous wording, is how should I feel towards you?" He clarified.

Without warning he stepped away from her and into the open space of the room. Somehow she felt colder with him further away. He looked around the room as if he could care less about his feelings towards her.

"I think I have nothing to fear from you," he commented. "You are a fledgling, unassuming and obviously naïve. You are not a threat in any capacity." He did not look at her once when he listed his observations.

His words hurt her and she almost felt like she could cry from them, which was strange because she usually didn't cry at anything. Suddenly the cold became too much and she walked across the room to the unlit fireplace. His eyes remained on her the whole time. She took some small logs from her reserve of wood and aggressively threw them into the barren fireplace. After her kindling and tinder were in place she used her flint to start the fire. She had done it before many times for Miss Danes and found it to be no trouble. She used the excuse of lighting the fire as a reason not to acknowledge Baden at all. She stood there looking into the flames, holding back her tears.

Annie turned without looking in his direction to retrieve a rug from the bed but he was right behind her. He was so close she could only just stop herself from running into him. She moved to get around him but he stepped in her way. She moved again and he did the same. This time she used her body to try and barge past him but he simply put his arms around her and held her in place. She struggled against him but he held her tighter.

"You are upset," he said. She looked up to him, shocked at how unfazed he seemed by that.

"And you are callous." She spoke from her hurt without thinking and looked away from him when he seemed to become uneasy. Why should she feel bad after what he had said to her?

"I am sorry that I hurt you." He sounded so genuine she looked up at him to see if he was being sincere. His face was that of earnest regret and something else, she could only recognise it as pain. Seeing how he had hurt her soul made him ache and he was almost desperate to comfort her.

"Then next time you should aspire to think before you speak. It will save you the trouble of apologising," she advised trying not to let him think he could treat her harshly then get away with it just by apologising.

"My words were meant to make you want to guard yourself from me but instead they made you more vulnerable," he explained. He was trying to do the right thing and warn her to stay away from him because he knew that deep inside he wouldn't be able to keep himself away from her.

"From what you say, it seems that you would prefer not to keep my company. If so then why do you continue to return?" Annie wanted him to keep coming back more than she had ever wanted anything in her life but not if he didn't want to.

Just when she thought he was about to say something that would change everything between them, he slowly dropped his arms and stood back. Without another word he walked to the window and with one glance back towards her, he left. This time the tears spilled onto her cheeks and she didn't know why. Everything he had said was true, he was a stranger that did enter her room uninvited and she should be afraid but she wasn't. She walked over to the window and looked out to the empty landscape. Empty not because there were no trees or hedges or flower beds but empty because he was not there.

Baden watched from the trees as Annie moved away from the window and out of view. When she walked away it felt as if something else walked away with her but he wasn't quite sure what that was.
CHAPTER 11

Annie walked over to the seat to get the book Baden had put there but when she looked it was gone. She searched the rest of the room until all she could deduce was that he either took it or hid it. Why would he do that? Deciding there was no use in trying to understand him she went back down to the library to find another.

There Annie waited all day and night for Eli to come back. She was concerned that he was out there chasing a dangerous snatcher and would get himself killed. She took her meals in there and only left the room when nature called. She waited until eventually she fell into an exhausted sleep on the multi-purpose day bed.

When Eli came in that night Garrick met him at the door.

"Sir, Miss Belle has fallen asleep in the library. I believe she has been waiting for you," he informed. Eli shrugged off his coat and handed it to Garrick.

"Thank you." With that Eli went to the library and found Annie asleep. He bent down beside her and looked at her face for a moment.

She looked so peaceful just lying there, so vulnerable. His desire to protect her grew inside of him as he watched her, he promised himself that he would do anything to keep her from harm. He would be anything she needed. He gently brushed a stray curl off her face and her breath fluttered in her sleep. He smiled to himself at how lovely she was.

Very carefully he picked her up and carried her through the house, up the stairs to her room. His heart did strange things from having her so close to him. He laid her down on the bed and pulled the covers over her. For another stolen moment he took the time to look at her and before he could help himself he lightly brushed his hand along her cheek and down her neck. She stirred slightly and before he could disturb her anymore he left her to her rest.

The next morning Annie woke up late into the day. She washed with her bedside basin and readied herself by throwing on a light pink day dress, rushing down stairs when she was done. In her hurried state she turned at the end of the stairs towards the kitchen and ran right into Eli. She crashed solidly into him but he managed to keep her from falling backwards. In fact she had run into him so hard that her arm felt a little sore from the collision.

"Needing to be somewhere?" Eli asked with his friendly smile. She took a step back and he hesitantly let her go. She rubbed her arm trying to rid it of the ache caused by their crash.

"I was coming to find you," she said as she inspected her arm. Eli found her very distracting as he took in her attire and his mind started to wander to other things. He realised he was staring so he snapped himself out of it before she could notice.

"Splendid because I am guilty of the same. Shall we continue our talk from yesterday?" He offered.

"That is exactly what I was going to suggest," she said, relieved he was so willing to be open with her.

"To the library then, I have tea and treats waiting for us." He held out his arm and she took it without hesitation. "Are you hurt?" He asked noticing the way she was looking at her arm. She stopped concentrating on it to assure him she was unharmed.

"No, it is fine," she lied. As they walked she wondered who had made their tea. "Did you make the refreshments?" She asked, noticing that he had come from the kitchen.

"Uh, why yes," he answered. "The help come and do their chores in the morning then leave. I pay them a higher rate to reside off the premises so I can maintain my needed privacy and keep them out of the house."

They headed silently to the library after that and he let her enter the room before him. She took a seat on a brown, leather reading chair near where the morning tea was set on a little table. Eli took the dagger he had removed the previous day and replaced it in its notch.

"How did yesterday's events...conclude?" Annie asked cautiously. How was she meant to feel at the fact her old employer was a snatcher and her current provider went to 'rid the world' of her? He took a seat across from her and started pouring some tea.

"Not as well as intended," he informed. "She seemed to have left on that trip a little earlier than expected. But I will complete my task as soon as she returns or as soon as I can locate where she is." He said it so easily you would think he was talking about the weather rather than killing a mythological creature.

"Forgive me if I sound rude but how is it that you dare to rival against a being that is much stronger and faster than yourself?" He passed the tea to her and started laughing. She took the cup and saucer he offered but couldn't help feeling a little demeaned.

"Excuse my laughter. I overlooked the fact that you still do not know what I am." She froze at his words. What he was? Was he not human? She felt fear start to creep up inside of her at what he might be. He saw her qualms and immediately started his explanation.

"I am a tracker. I am designed to eliminate soul snatchers," he stated as if it made perfect sense.

"Come again?" Annie asked as she calmly stirred her tea. Her actions were so contrary to her surprised expression that he smiled to himself as he served himself tea.

"Trackers are a group of men that are different in the way they are designed, you could say. We sleep and eat just as humans do but we are different. We heal quickly and are not easily killed. Our senses may not be as powerful as what snatcher's have but we are strong, fast and resilient. We are strong enough to defeat snatchers," he explained further. Annie was astonished.

"How did you become 'different'?" She asked, curiosity obvious in her voice. Eli hesitated before he answered. Everything he had told her so far was meant to be kept a secret but he had disclosed it anyway. But he figured there wasn't really much left to tell and his position amongst the tracker hierarchy allowed him more flexibility in what he was permitted to do.

"I can only repeat the things I have heard," he advised before he started into his explanation. "Not long after snatchers began to grow in numbers their myth also started to grow and a group of men decided to do something about them. They were no different from any other, perhaps stronger than the average man but human none the less. One night a man in the group was bitten during a brawl with a snatcher. The group took him back and locked him away, trying to determine what to do with him. They did not want to kill him so they tried to find remedies."

"How gracious of them," Annie said sarcastically not knowing how she felt about a group that could very well turn on one another.

"In any case, after being locked away in solitude for days he came out different...subdued. He was different to other snatchers they had previously encountered and from him we were created. He had a son and his son had one and so on."

"We?" Annie asked.

"When I say 'we', I am referring to the other trackers. We keep in touch and monitor and record whatever we can. There are quite a few and more are coming about," Eli explained. When she seemed satisfied he continued. "They found he could reproduce and he...has not yet perished." Annie looked blankly at him.

"He is still alive?" She clarified. He simply nodded. "Where is he now?"

"He contacts us. No one has ever met him in person but he helps with our research," he informed.

"How old are you?" She asked trying not to look him up and down. He laughed at the expression on her face.

"I am as old as I seem. I was born in seventeen-eighty but I will look like this forever." He watched her as she took it all in.

"So I am assuming that because you were born like this then your father or possibly mother was one?" She deduced.

"My father was. He and my mother were killed by a snatcher when I was a young boy and Garrick took over guardianship. The only reason why my father died was because it was at the hand of a snatcher. That is the only way any of us can die." He pushed away the hurt he had spent so much time hiding.

"Eli, I am so sorry. I..."

"You were not to know," he said. She still felt awful and considered her next words carefully.

"If trackers live forever...well...what about their wives?" Annie could feel the sadness in Eli before he answered.

"That is the problem. Having an enemy that in effect created us and lives forever means we do too. So the person we chose will eventually..." He let the sentence hang.

"Or they could be used in revenge by one of those enemies," Annie added. Eli looked down to his tea regretfully. "Why do you not do the same to other newly made snatchers that you did to the first? They may all turn into a tracker."

"There have been experiments tried on rare occasions but the snatcher either ended up escaping and people were killed or they perished. As I told you they need the bane subdued or they burn. We do not know what was so different with the first man and he has not given any insights to it either. We look into it as much as we can but there is only so much we can do," he explained.

"Are there any other trackers in this area?" Annie asked.

"There was once but...they were taken from us." Eli's eyes almost welled with tears from the memory but he blinked away the tears and changed the subject. "It seems that when a tracker procreates, each male child in that family is born a tracker. When they have had another child with another woman they are human. Of course, there are some trackers who just choose to live their own lives, having no association with our cause." Annie took a sip of her tea as if that would help her swallow all of the information better.

"Well, that is all very fascinating," she said through a small laugh. She sounded very overwhelmed. "From one woman's selfish ambitions she created a whole new species that seem to have to battle with her burden. And through the mistake of one of them, they created an eternal enemy that would always seem to aim to destroy them. Ironic really." Eli couldn't help but laugh at her summation.

"That is quite the synopsis, Annie," he said. "There is one more thing I would like to address." He waited until he had her full attention. "Would you be willing to learn some ways to defend yourself against snatchers?"

At first she thought she had misunderstood what he said but then she realised he was completely serious. She had never felt more frightened and exhilarated at the same time. Of course she wanted to!
CHAPTER 12

Eli was called out of town for two days to attend to a land dispute regarding one of his many properties. He instructed Annie not to leave the house and not to invite anyone in, under any circumstance. He promised to return as soon as possible and they would begin their training then.

After two days and still no Eli, Annie started to become restless. The real reason was because she hadn't seen Baden since she had practically thrown him out. To try and pull herself out of her slump she started reading book after book on whatever she could. It was hard to take it all in when she didn't have Eli there to question but she took in as much as she possible. To her surprise he didn't have many books about snatchers, they were mainly about trackers and other myths that seemed irrelevant. The books he did have on snatchers were vague and unhelpful.

One afternoon there was a knock at the library door and Garrick came in. She smiled at him as soon as he came in but her smile soon faded when she saw how serious his face was.

"One...he said his name was Micah, is here to see you, Miss Belle," he informed. She placed her book down immediately and went straight for the front door. Why would Garrick be so worried about Micah?

"Thank you, Garrick," she said on her way past him. When she got to the front door she paused, she wasn't meant to invite anyone in. Why hadn't Micah just come in after Garrick spoke to him? She hesitated a moment before she opened the door.

"Annie," Micah said as soon as he saw her and to her relief he stepped through the doorway without invitation and wrapped his arms around her. She closed her eyes in a silent prayer of thanks.

"Micah, I cannot believe you are here. Do you have a day to yourself?" Annie asked stepping back when she felt the hug had persisted too long. When he held onto her hands she pretended to busy them so he had to let go.

"Miss Danes is away and I have been left to attend to things," he explained. She was shocked that he had been left in charge, he usually only dealt with the stables. Garrick subtly came around the corner to offer them some tea.

"Would you like some refreshments for you and your guest in the parlour, Miss Belle?" He asked politely though she didn't miss his look of concern.

"That would be much appreciated for my guest and I, as he has dropped in unexpectedly and managed to come in without invite," she dropped the hint so he could relax. Even with her reassurance Garrick didn't look relieved in the slightest but he left to make tea anyway. She turned back to Micah who looked almost horrified.

"You seem to be settling in quite nicely," he commented with a hint of agitation.

"It is a long story. Come with me and we shall reminisce and enlighten each other." She took him to the front parlour and they made themselves comfortable. Micah made himself a little too comfortable, sitting rather close to her on the davenport.

It was a small parlour compared to the others but still comfortable. With just a few chairs, a small table and a cabinet with various things on display.

"So are you and Mr. Brighton engaged or have you gambolled past that part?" His tone was curt.

"Micah, that is impolite of you to ask in such an atrocious manner! Eli and I are in no such relationship," she defended herself immediately.

"I am sorry but there are rumours running about town and through the manor and I do not know what to believe anymore." He looked like a man lost.

"Well believe me as I am the source informing you." She couldn't help but feel offended that he could believe anything like that about her. He knew her better than anyone else.

"It has been terrible since you left. Everything feels so empty without you, Annie." He looked as if he could cry.

"But you are heading the house for a time. Where is Rosemary?" She had asked to derail the conversation from awkward territory but then she was suddenly panicked at Rosemary's whereabouts.

"She is travelling with Miss Danes," he explained. "Since you have been gone she has made Rosemary her personal maid."

"How long will Miss Danes be gone?" Annie wondered, still concerned about Rosemary.

"Apparently a month or so." Micah seemed rather uninterested in the topic.

"A month! What on earth is she doing?" Annie had no idea how to take that.

"Shopping and buying new land. Annie there is a specific reason I came here today," he changed the subject quickly.

"There is?" She was getting a bad feeling about where this conversation was going.

"Yes." He took her hands in his and moved closer to her. Where was Garrick with that tea? "Annie, I know that I cannot offer much but there is one thing I can offer you."

"Micah, I think it may be time for you to leave," she said trying to pull her hands away from his tight grip. She managed to free one but the other was stuck.

"Annie, please hear me out," he pleaded. Seeing no use for it she prepared herself to crush her best friend's hopes. "I am in love with you. I have always been in love with you and I will always love you until the day they bury me. Will you be my wife so I can love you for the rest of my days?"

His eyes were wide and filled with yearning but the longer she took to answer, the more deflated he looked.

"Annie?" He said sounding dismayed. Why did he have to do this? Her heart beat hysterically as she tried to gain the courage to speak. There was no more time, she had to answer and it broke her heart.

"Micah," she said through swelling tears. "Please do not let this come between us." Her voice came out husky. It was hard to talk not only because she was crying but because she was about to lose her best friend. "But I do not love you like that."

Micah's face became crestfallen. After the words sunk in he let go of her hand and stood to leave.

"Goodbye Annie," he said the words empty of emotion then moved to leave. He made it through the parlour door before she went after him. She couldn't just let him walk away from her.

"Please, Micah do not take away my best friend. We can still have what we had," she begged. She grabbed his arm but he brushed it away as he stormed out. He opened the front door and she walked out after him. Finally he stopped walking and turned to face her. The afternoon sun almost blinded her as it glowed through her tears.

"You may not love me now, or it may be that you do not know you love me, but it does not have to be this thing that just falls into your lap, Annie. Love is so much more than just some feeling, it is work and it may be hard sometimes but you choose it." Micah was crying now, which hurt her even more because she had never seen him cry about anything.

"Can we not choose our friendship?" She felt he was being unreasonable, surely they could move past this.

"No, you must choose. I cannot take it anymore. For years I have loved you and now it is time to approach this fork in the road. If I cannot have you then I need to walk away from you or I will spend my life wanting something I cannot have." He sounded desperate and wild.

His horse stood outside the ground gates, the horse that she had ridden for years in his lap. She thought of all the times he had made her feel safe and special. Would it be so bad to be with him? In herself she knew it would not be fair to him if she settled because he would not have all of her and he deserved more than that. He deserved to be loved more than anyone else she knew.

"Micah, I..." She faltered through the tears. She knew she may never see him again and all she wanted to do was see his face one more time. She frantically wiped away the teary mess.

"Just choose, Annie." His voice broke as he said her name.

"Micah, I will never be able to love you the way you deserve to be loved." She bit her lip after she said the words but that still didn't stop the tears. He stood and looked at her for a moment or so, almost as if he was memorising everything about her.

"I wish you all the happiness life can bring, Annie." With these words as his parting goodbye he turned away from her and walked out of her life. His boots on the gravel path the only noise amongst the pain filled silence.

Annie watched him as he moved past the gates and jumped onto his horse. The surroundings were perfect, with the flawlessly trimmed grass and blue sky. The slight breeze that blew the white clouds across the sky and the sun shining on the immaculate, colourful flower beds. And as he walked away from her, he too had completed that perfection...but the moment wasn't perfect at all.

She thought she saw him look back for a moment before he dug his heel into the horse's flank and sped away out of sight. She stood there for a time to see if he would return but he never did and he probably never would again.

She turned to find Garrick standing at the door, not to invade her privacy but to be there to protect her. She hadn't even realised she had walked out of the house. He gave her a soft look but she silently moved past him and ran up the stairs. She didn't stop until she was hidden away in her room, away from everyone.

She locked the door as soon as she shut it to try and escape what just happened. Before she could lose herself to her pain she turned and saw Baden standing at the foot of the bed.

"If you are here to torment me then be on your way," she almost spat the words. She was hurting deep in her soul and Baden had the potential to worsen her pain or rescue her from it.

Before she could conclude which it would be he slowly walked over and stopped in front of her. He didn't say a word, he simply placed his hands on her waist and gently pulled her into his arms. She closed her eyes in relief and let him hold her. As she cried into his chest he lifted her into his arms and took her to the bed. He gently laid her down and cuddled in beside her, pulling her close to him and letting her cry. When her stamina gave way, she fell into a fitful sleep against him. His body was warm to the touch and it somehow warmed her heart.
CHAPTER 13

Annie woke in the middle of the night in panic. She took a sharp breath in and tried to ignore the pain that had nestled itself inside her soul. The room was black and she couldn't see anything but she could feel someone beside her. For a moment she was filled with fright but it soon subsided as she remembered Baden was there. She curled into his side and closed her eyes, even though she already couldn't see.

"Annie," he whispered her name and it felt like a caress.

"Yes?" She whispered back. Her eyes felt swollen and her nose was blocked. She thought if she cried anymore her head might fall off.

"How are you feeling?" He asked as he gently bushed her hair away from her face.

"As if my nose has had a pear thrust up it." She laughed a little but there was no humour in it. Through the night-darkened room she heard a small laugh. "Was that a laugh?" She asked him.

"Your use of words is remarkable," he explained. She smiled and it made her face feel stretched tight. There was silence for a time but it wasn't unpleasant, it was comfortable.

"I did not think he would walk out of my life forever." She opened up to him. This could come back to bite her but she ignored the worry. "He has been my best friend for so long and now he cannot stand the sight of me."

"I think the problem is more so that he can stand the sight of you, very much," Baden half joked.

"You know what I am saying." She still smiled at his effort to make her feel better.

"I do. It is hard to be in love with someone when they do not want you back," Baden said perceptively.

"Is there a hint of love lost I hear in your voice?" Even with how upset she was she still checked to see if he had feelings for someone. She felt puerile because of it. Baden paused for a moment.

"I am not sure how to respond," he said avoiding having to answer.

"Is there someone that loves you?" She asked finding it strange that he seemed confused about it.

"I think there might be." He sounded unsure of himself.

"And do you love them?" Her question was met with silence. After a long time she gave up on getting an answer from him and thought it best not to push him.

"It has been so long since I have felt like me. How can I know?" His question surprised her.

"How do you know if you are in love?" She clarified unnecessarily to give herself more time to think of an answer.

"Yes," he said quickly. How would she know? She had known of Baden for only a short time and she felt towards him something that she had never felt for anyone but was it love? She had never been one to obsess over men or go from one love to the next, so what made him so different to every other man she knew?

"I assume you just know," she said, guessing the answer. She really had no idea what to say.

"Are you in love?" He asked almost shyly. Great, he had to ask her that didn't he. What if she said yes, would he guess it was him? And if he guessed then what would he think? He is unsure if he is in love but if he is, it most probably wasn't with her.

"I..." What was she meant to say? Why had she started speaking? Now she would have to say something else. Why was it so dark? If she could only see his face, maybe it would help. Or maybe it would make it worse. "I think there may be...I do not know." She gave up. He could feel the confusion in her soul.

"What of Micah?" He asked. He was sure she didn't love him but there might be something.

"I can honestly say that he has never been more than a friend in my heart." She was surprised how much better she felt with Baden near. Even hearing Micah's name didn't restart the tears.

"And Eli?" Now this was where Baden was paying close attention. Annie stopped and thought about what he was asking. He could feel her soul stir with Eli's name and it caused him to feel uncomfortable.

"Am I in love with Eli? I hardly know him," she answered.

"Do you think time is a factor in falling in love?" He asked quickly after her response.

"No," she said with him in mind.

"Is there a reason you brought that up as a point or was it to avoid having to answer?" His words sounded very guarded. What was he even doing? Why was he even here? These questions and more played around inside his mind.

"No. I do not love him," she said outright. But he could feel the uncertainty in her soul.

"But you could love him more so than Micah?" Annie started to feel as if she was being interrogated.

"Tell me, who do you think you may be in love with?" Annie asked a little frustrated.

"I...am not in love. I have just decided," he proclaimed. She couldn't help but feel disappointed by his words.

"Oh," she said quietly.

"Would you ever consider loving Eli?" He pushed the matter. The fact that he asked again after she had already answered annoyed her. If he didn't love anyone, and especially not her, then why did he keep asking who she was in love with?

"I cannot say I have given it much thought," she said a little tersely.

"Consider it now," he urged. She felt so irritated that she lost her patience with him.

"Well, he is kind and thoughtful. He took me in when I had nowhere to go. I could possibly think of worse men to share my life with." Then she remembered Eli's life expectancy in comparison to hers and it put a damper on her reasoning. Then the biggest decider came to mind, Eli wasn't Baden. "But there are reasons I would not choose him," she finished weakly, losing her steam.

"It seems you have put more thought into it than you claim." Baden sounded cold. Annie pushed herself up on her arm and stared down at where she thought he was, it was hard to see through the dark.

"You have forced me into an answer and now I am to blame?" She couldn't believe it. Before he could respond there was a soft knock at the door. She froze, hoping whoever it was would go away.

"Annie, are you awake?" They heard Eli's voice call through the door. She moved off the bed as best she could in the dark.

"You need to hide," she whispered frantically to Baden. He remained silent. "Baden?" She whispered again when he didn't respond.

Assuming that he had hidden, she walked over to the door. Before she opened it she felt what she was wearing to make sure she was covered. When she remembered she was still wearing her day dress she opened the door to find Eli in the hallway with a small lamp. He came in and closed the door. Subtly she checked the room to see if she could spot Baden but she didn't get much time before Eli spoke.

"Sorry to disturb you. I just arrived home and Garrick informed me of..." He opted not to rehash what had happened with Micah. "I was passing to my room and I thought I heard you speaking." He looked around the room and she panicked a little.

"I...I was just talking in my sleep. I do that when I am upset," she lied hurriedly to distract him. He placed the lamp down on the nearest table and came back to her.

"I am sorry, Annie." Before she could do anything he pulled her into an embrace. She hesitated at first but let herself hug him back. It felt nice that he cared about her and that he wasn't afraid to show it. "It hurts to lose someone," he said empathetically. She looked over his shoulder and saw the window open. Her heart sank because it meant that Baden had left and she didn't know when or if he would be back. Eli pulled away and looked at her.

"Annie, you are freezing," he said concerned. He ran his hands along her arms to try and warm her. He looked around for a rug but then noticed the window was open. "Why on earth is your window open?" He asked as he walked over and closed it.

"It must have been open during the day but I fell asleep in the afternoon and have not been up since." She wasn't sure if that was a lie or not because it may have been the case. Eli latched the window closed and drew the curtains. He walked back over, picked up the lamp and took her hand.

"You should get some rest. It is late and if you so desired we may still start your lessons tomorrow," he said trying to cheer her. Casually letting go of his hand, she climbed into bed and let herself slip under the covers. She ignored the fact that she wasn't dressed for bed, as long as it got Eli out of her room quicker. Maybe then Baden would come back. The sheets felt warm where Baden had been laying and it made her feel a little sad.

Eli took a seat next to her and placed the lamp down. It made her heart unexpectedly beat a little faster and she started to fiddle with the sheets, she didn't want to risk it getting out of control like it had before. In the soft glow of the light he thought she looked quite lovely and had to hold himself back from kissing her.

"Yes. I think having our first lesson would be the best thing to take my mind off today," she said trying not to think of Micah or Baden. Eli reached out and gently touched her face to comfort her.

"Once he has had time to think he may realise what he has lost," Eli consoled. Tears started to well in her eyes so he leaned down and kissed her cheek, dangerously close to her lips. She sucked in a breath, waiting for it to be over. What if Baden was still in the room, hiding? When Eli pulled away he kept his face close to hers and she looked up at him wide eyed with fear. Fear that Baden might have seen that but also that somewhere inside of her felt warm from Eli's touch.

"Thank you," she said trying to break the tension.

"Sleep well, Annie." When he said her name he looked down to her lips. She half smiled, positioning them awkwardly to deter his thoughts. The thoughts that were so obviously clear on his face. Why couldn't Baden look at her that way?

"I will find you after I have eaten and then we can start the lesson," she said referring to their plans for tomorrow. He pulled away from her and took the lamp from the bedside table.

"Whatever pleases you best," he said as he stood to leave. She gave him a small smile before he left and closed the door.

Her room was again shrouded in darkness but she still made her way to the door and locked it, resting her head against it in relief that he was finally gone. She didn't know why but she had the potential to get carried away with Eli.

As she turned to go back to bed there was a soft noise and then someone was in front of her. She was pinned with her back against the door and someone close to her body. Before she could be alarmed she felt his warm breath and his sweet smell. It was Baden.

"He loves you," Baden said of Eli. Annie thought of rebuking him but she decided not to. If she was honest with herself she already knew it was true, she just wasn't sure how she felt about it. Baden's face was close to hers, so close she could feel his breath on her lips. He leaned his arms on the door, either side of her face and pushed himself against her body even further.

"There is something in me that feels inclined to agree with you," she said breathlessly.

"I do not want you to love him," he said bringing his lips even closer to hers. She let out a shuddering breath caused by his closeness.

"Why?" Is the only word she could manage but it came out as a sound rather than an actual word. Baden slid one of his arms around her waist and pulled her even closer.

"Because I want you to love me." As he whispered the words his breath blew into her mouth and it felt like it filled every part of her that was empty. She couldn't help but lean in to kiss him but suddenly she was left alone in the dark room. She felt a cool breeze where the window stood open and this time she knew he was gone.

Filled with disappointment, Annie slowly made her way over, closed the window and went to bed. She couldn't even be bothered getting dressed, this day had dragged on too long and it was catching up with her.

Part of her was euphoric that Baden wanted her to love him but then she realised he hadn't said he loved her. Then he just left when she was about to kiss him. Doubt filled her as she began to think on it more. It felt like he wanted her as a prize of some kind. Everything he did seemed to be looking more and more selfish. Soon she fell into a restless sleep, all the while thinking of Baden.

When Baden knew she had fallen asleep he came out of the shadows of Annie's room where he had moved to when she had tried to kiss him. He went and stood by her bed, just watching her as she slept. He had wanted to kiss her tonight but he couldn't, he couldn't do anything until he was sure. He just hoped that he would be sure before the things he did pushed her away.
CHAPTER 14

As soon as Annie ate in the morning she sought after Eli. Not surprisingly, she found him in the library reading a book peacefully. She walked into the room and noticed there was a space cleared on the carpet for them to practice. The furniture was pushed back so it lined the book shelves and made an outline for their practice space on the carpet.

"Good morning," Eli said as Annie walked in. He glanced at the clock on the wall then back to her. "Just." He smiled playfully.

"It is rather late," Annie agreed, missing the joke entirely.

"Do not be ridiculous, I was having fun with you. Now we must do something about those clothes before we begin." He placed his book down and walked over to his desk. She noticed some clothes folded neatly, sitting on top of it.

"What are they?" She asked as she approached the desk.

"These are some old clothes I wore when I was twelve. I found them so you would not have to wear a dress." He held the clothes out for her, pleased with how thrilled she looked. She took them smiling thinking of how fun this would be.

Annie hurried excitedly to her room and changed as quickly as she could. The black pants fit well enough but were a little tighter than expected, as they had been made for a young boy rather than a shapely woman. The white shirt was far too tight and the buttons were strained to their limits around her bust. She squeezed into the grey vest and was glad for it as it helped to cover her more appropriately, though the buttons on that were also working hard to contain her. Seeing that she had no other option for her attire at the moment she decided not to care. It was only Eli that would see her anyway and that didn't bother her. She was too eager for her lesson to give it much thought.

Annie ran enthusiastically downstairs and into the library. Eli was waiting for her in the space he had cleared, looking up as she burst through the door and into the room. He was dressed in loose, tan pants that were rolled to his knees and a comfortable, white slip-shirt.

"I think you must have had a growth spurt after twelve," she commented as she inspected her clothing. When Eli failed to respond she looked up concerned that she had offended him. She found that he was also inspecting her clothes. When he realised she had noticed he busied himself with rolling up his sleeves.

"Yes, well. Sorry that I did not have time to organise more comfortable attire but this shall do for now. We will arrange an appointment with Antoinette." He finished with his sleeves and walked over to his desk to get something. "You may want to tie your hair back," he suggested.

Without warning he flicked a hair tie over to her that he grabbed from the top draw and she only just managed to catch it. As she tied her hair in a ponytail he walked over and started throwing cushions on the floor where they were about to practice.

"From the look of your groundwork things may get rough," Annie said as if to prepare herself.

"Do not fret, I shall be as gentle as I possibly can," he promised. "Now, I just want to see your natural instinct. So come at me," he directed.

To brace himself he stood with his legs shoulder width apart and his arms out in front of him. All of a sudden she felt nervous and she had to swallow hard to try and push the feeling away.

"Just run?" She asked shyly, barely able to find her voice.

"Do not worry, you will not hurt me." He grinned cheekily. "Give me your best," he dared. His challenge made something inside her rise to the occasion and she ran at him without warning.

When she was a young girl she had always played rough with the boys from school in the field, favouring that rather than spending time with the other girls. She drew on that experience and lunged herself at Eli. He didn't expect her to do that, so as she collided with him he fell backwards and she landed on top of him.

"I am sorry. Are you hurt?" She asked panicking as she lay on top of him. To her relief he started laughing.

"I am fine," he assured through his laughter. "Did you hurt yourself?"

"Not at all," she said with a smile.

"Great, again." He jumped up and took her with him, placing her on her feet. "Now attack me."

This time she got nowhere before he had her restricted from behind, though he was careful not to hurt her.

"You will not have strength against them so you will have to use creativeness. You have what they want and they will be distracted by it," he explained whilst still holding her. He tried to put the fact out of his mind that she could be attacked again, as it concerned him to distraction.

"Right." She took in what he was saying.

"So if you do not get a chance to stop them before they reach you then you may get your chance if they try to bite you or...hurt you." He faltered before he used the word kill.

She knew it was a true possibility, and he was only teaching her, but that didn't stop the chills it gave her to think of herself in that situation. She suspected that the training really wouldn't do anything if she was confronted by a snatcher but she thought it was probably better than nothing.

"So what do I do if they have hold of me?" She asked trying to move out of his hold but failing.

"If you have a dagger with you then you will have more of a chance. If you can drive it into any part of their skin it will distract them. Though that may mean you lose your dagger. In that case you will need a backup," he explained, sounding as if he was thinking aloud.

He finally released her and walked over to the day bed. He lifted the hidden lid and pulled out half of the velvet lining holding five of the daggers. It was stiff and easily moved and acted as a cover for a lower section. She walked over and looked at what he was doing.

Underneath were assorted chromium pendants, tipped with polished bone. They ranged from crosses to decorative trees with sharp ends, to smaller plain looking daggers. Some were even disguised to suit as a necklace or possibly a brooch.

"What are they?" Annie asked as he knelt down beside him and searched through the box.

"These are daggers you can carry on you without anyone realising." He chose a cross that had an irregularly large lower part and was looped onto a leather piece of cord. It was long enough that it would sit below her bust and be covered by any dress she wore. He knelt down next to her and placed it around her neck. She took the cross in her hand and inspected it closer.

"So, this is my back up?" She asked.

"And..." He pulled out another ornament. This had the same handle as the larger daggers, except smaller and thinner, and the blade was a little shorter.

"Where will this go?" She asked as she took it from him, letting the necklace drop.

"In your hair," he said with a smile. She looked at him in surprise then realised the ingeniousness of it.

She pulled the hair tie out of her hair and threw it on the ground. She twisted her hair around the bone until it felt tight enough before spearing it through her hair so it ran vertically along her head. It sat tightly against her head but could easily be removed if it was needed. The bone was hidden by her hair and the handle looked like an adornment designed specifically for hairstyling. She felt a little uncomfortable with the fact it was bone but she tried to put that out of her mind. Eli raised his eyebrows to show his approval.

"When I played as a little girl my hair tie would often break. I would find the nearest twig and manage it to hold my hair back," she explained the origin of her hairdo.

One of the boys she used to play along with as a child came to mind, his name was Nathaniel Eddon. He had shown her how to tie her hair back with a stick, knowing how to because he had seen his sisters do the same thing. Every now and then she wondered where he ended up in life.

"I must say, I am thoroughly impressed," he said, distracting her from her thoughts. He was pleased that she would be well armed if it ever came down to it, not that he ever intended to let that happen.

"May I ask...why do you use bone for the dagger blade?" She wondered. He picked up one of the usual size daggers and held it solemnly.

"The only bone that will kill a snatcher is a bone that has been removed from one of us..." he said as he looked at the dagger. When she didn't comment he looked up to see the disgusted look on her face. "That is how I felt when I first heard it."

"What do you mean...'us'...as in trackers?" Annie pulled the small dagger out of her hair and stared at it, horrified that she had even touched it. Eli held back his laughter at her reaction.

"We do not fully develop into our potential as a tracker until the age of twenty, which is when we have reached our physical peak. Once we have reached that age we have a rib that crosses over our heart removed and fashioned into a dagger," he explained. "The particular rib used actually grows thicker and stronger than the rest of our bones, specifically for its purpose."

Annie thought about the sacrifice that the trackers made to try and keep unknowing humans safe. Even though trackers were known to heal quickly she imagined that it would be an excruciating process. She didn't like the thought that Eli had to go through something like that. Suddenly she thought about what he said, one rib is removed.

"But why do you have so many daggers?" She looked at the daggers lying across the seat with horror written across her face.

"There are of course casualties in my line of work and we do not let daggers previously made go to waste if we can avoid it." He tried to say it as tactfully as he could but it didn't change what they were. Those were the bones of dead trackers. Annie thought she was going to be sick, she looked at the one in her hand and placed it down with the others. Then she took the one from around her neck, careful to ensure it did not touch her, and placed it with the other ones.

"I know it seems altogether horrendous but they could save your life," he reasoned.

"Yes...I understand that..." she looked at him to try and think of the words. "Just let me get used to the idea for a moment." He nodded, understanding her reservations. After a moment of thinking about all of it she spoke. "So a snatcher's skin is penetrable then?" She wondered. She thought mythical creatures would be indestructible or something.

"Well...yes," Eli answered. "They still have their human shells but when they are injured their bane heals them quickly."

"Can they...perish?" She was surprised at how normal it felt to be talking about these things called snatchers.

"Yes, by using the dagger to stab them through the heart." He flicked the dagger in his hand and caught it easily, he almost looked proud of the instrument.

"Why do you have to stab them through the heart with it?" She asked feeling completely fascinated by it all.

"Because the heart is known as the origin of love and the myth tells us that the men that were sacrificed had truly loved her. When the demon made her he had to ensure that the new creations would have a weakness as nature requires a balance. Since her victim's hearts were what made them vulnerable it is said that the demon made snatcher's hearts vulnerable in a different way," he recited the information as if he said it a million time before.

"And how do you know all of this?" She thought it was curious because apparently trackers didn't have much to do with snatchers.

"The first tracker," he answered easily.

"I see...and how does he know all of that?" She was sceptical of this 'first tracker' that seemed to be so knowledgeable. Eli paused, obviously he had never thought to ask the question before. He shrugged his shoulders.

"I...do...not know," he stumbled. He was surprised at himself that he didn't have an answer. She decided to let that discussion drop, who was she to come along and question everything he knew?

"So why does it have to be a bone that crosses over a tracker's heart?" She wondered, saving him from his doubts. He seemed more than grateful for it.

"Essentially, we were formed from them to create an opposing force. So where their heart is weak and the point of their demise, a tracker's hearts is their strength," he enlightened. "The only rib that suffices is the one that crosses directly over the centre of our heart." It all sounded kind of romantic to Annie, in a morbid sort of way.

"So what happens when a snatcher dies?" She started fiddling with the dagger she had placed down before.

"If the person had died instead of being preserved by the bane then their body would have started decomposing. Since the bane hindered the natural process they do not. Once the dagger is removed from their heart they return to where they should have been in the natural progression of death. So if they had been changed decades or centuries ago, they would turn to a pile of bones or even dust as that is what their corpse would have done. If they are not so old they turn into a rotting corpse." Eli pulled a face as he remembered the horrible smells he had encountered. Annie held back the smile that was trying to escape her from his reaction.

"So if the dagger remained in them they would just be a lifeless relic?" She clarified. He nodded, impressed that she was doing so well with all of the information. "And which dagger was made from you?" She asked curiously.

For the first time since meeting him she saw his eyes turn vulnerable and it surprised her. After his initial hesitation he lifted the dagger in his hand a little higher, indicating that was the one. She paused for a moment, looking at the dagger he held. She stretched out her hand slowly, wordlessly asking to inspect the invaluable dagger. He handed it to her and she took it with great care. Knowing that it was made from him made it feel special and she felt closer to him by having the privilege of holding it.

"Is there a reason for the chromium?" She wondered. She looked up to find him with a sly grin on his face.

"We all just liked it the most," he answered, referring to himself and some of the other trackers.

She found it amusing because compared to the other information she had been told it was so superficial. Everything else had so much meaning but this didn't have any whatsoever. She looked back to the dagger in her hand, holding back a laugh. She thought he was being rather cute with it all. She did wonder why he was one of the ones who had gotten to choose the material for the handle.

"Are you part of some committee that gets to make decisions for all trackers?" She missed the nervous look that came across his face because she was so focused on the dagger. He had told her a lot in regards to trackers but there were some things he wasn't allowed to tell such as, how many trackers there actually were in existence and his role amongst them.

"Something like that," he said casually. He was lucky that she was rather interested in his dagger or she would have questioned him further. He was relieved when she didn't go more into the matter.

"This is all so implausible," she whispered as she gazed at the crafted bone. She handed it back to him carefully and he placed it back in its notch. After she took her daggers he packed everything away and closed the lid of the day bed.

"Wait..." She said as they both stood from kneeling on the ground. "If their skin is penetrable then why not cut them to pieces?" She thought it would be gruesome but possibly effective. He smiled because she was so full of questions.

"They also heal very quickly," he reminded. "Their flesh is the fastest to heal and once it is cut, no sooner has it closed back over. No matter how deep or quickly you cut them it will close over almost instantly, even if they are wounded within. They take longer to heal internally but their skin is designed to protect them." He paused for a moment to recall some of his own experiences. "It is strange because you can stab them through the heart but if you try to drag the dagger to open them up the skin will not allow it. But it will allow small gashes, as if it knows which will cause the most damage."

"And I am assuming you know all of this because of the first tracker?" She tried to hide her reservations but she didn't quite manage it. He simply nodded to answer her. "What was his name?"

"Timothy Obrad," he answered. She waited for some more information but Eli looked at her blankly. "That is all we know," he explained his lack of an answer. When it didn't look like she was going to ask anything else he decided that question time was over. "So let us return to our lesson!" Eli announced. She put her daggers down on the day bed cushions and moved over to the cleared area with him. "This lesson is more to inform you of what you should expect and what you need to know in regards to an attack. The others will be more to train you and build your strength." He crouched in his defensive stance to brace himself for an attack.

"May I ask something else before we recommence?" She wondered. He nodded but kept his pose. "You began to tell me that there was something else that snatchers were designed to do but you never got around to explaining it..." He looked at her confused.

"Have you not read, 'Methods of The Soul Snatcher'?" He queried.

"I seem to have misplaced the book. I am sorry, Eli." She was annoyed at having to admit to something she didn't do. She always made sure she took care of things, especially things that didn't belong to her.

"Oh." He straightened up from his position to explain. He didn't seem bothered by the mislaid book. "You see..."

Before he could go any further, Garrick burst through the door with a frazzled look on his face.

"Mr. Brighton, Miss Belle. I am sorry to disturb your lesson but there is an urgent matter," Garrick said. "This just arrived for you, Mr. Brighton." Garrick held out a letter to him. Eli just stared at it with a quizzical look on his face. "It is from your brother," Garrick added. Eli's face dropped instantly as he took the letter from him.

"You have a brother?" Annie asked, completely befuddled by the information.

"I...I..." Eli started to explain but he got lost in his words as he stared at the envelope. "I must cut this lesson short. I do apologise, Annie." Eli left without looking at her and Garrick followed him out the door.

Annie stood astounded for a moment in the now quiet room until she realised she was being ridiculous just standing there. She headed to her room to get changed, all the while wondering why Eli never mentioned he had a brother.
CHAPTER 15

That evening Eli came up to her room and knocked on the door. Annie moved to answer it and let him in but he remained standing at the door.

"I am sorry to disturb you Annie but I have to inform you that I will be attending to an urgent matter. It may require me to be gone for a week or more." He sounded guarded and a little brash.

"I see. Would you like me to come with you?" She wondered if this had something to do with the letter he received from his brother but she thought it rude to ask.

"No, that would not be advisable. It hopefully will not take long." He purposely avoided having to say too much.

"When do you leave?" She asked.

"Immediately," is all he said.

"This very moment?" She repeated the detail, shocked at how abrupt it was.

"Yes, Garrick will be here to assist you with whatever you need and I should return shortly. He is permitted to accompany you into town if you should so desire. With Miss Danes gone and no other dangers in the area, there should be no threats that Garrick cannot manage." He was acting business like and unemotional. He was distancing himself from her and she didn't know why.

"Well...then I wish all the best for the trip and that you can sort the matter as you see fit," she said, unsure of what else to say. He looked to her and paused for a moment.

"Thank you, Annie." It looked as if he wanted to say more but instead he just left. She had no idea what was going on and she didn't think she was going to find out. What's more, it didn't feel as if it was something good.

A week passed and no Eli and no Baden, for that matter. She felt conflicted about not seeing Baden because part of her wanted him desperately and the other part was warning her to be wary of him. As for Eli, Garrick assured Annie that Eli was fine and to distract her, offered to go in town for the day. She knew he was avoiding her questions but she saw no use trying to find anything out and decided to accept the offer for the trip. It would be good to get out of the manor.

After the ride, Garrick helped her out of the carriage. She wore a light blue dress with her hair pulled back in a loose chignon.

"Thank you," she said gratefully to Garrick, stepping down onto the path.

"My pleasure, Miss Belle. If you so wish, Mr. Brighton has arranged an appointment with Antoinette," he informed.

"Well then, we best not keep her waiting." She was happy to be seeing the enjoyable seamstress again. Garrick escorted her to the door but went no further.

"I will be here once the appointment has ended but I think it best for me to complete some tasks during your visit to Antoinette." He smiled and she rewarded him with one in return. With that he was off and she walked into the store. She stopped suddenly when she saw Baden sitting in one of the waiting room chairs. He looked over to her with a playful grin.

"Annie, what a coincidence," he said sarcastically. It was obvious this was not a happenstance. Before she could respond Antoinette came rushing out from behind the curtain.

"Annabelle, so beautiful," she said as she approached Annie. Her accent made it sound more complimentary than usual. "I must make you...suit?" Antoinette asked with a puzzled look on her face referring to a message Eli must have communicated to her.

"Not exactly," Annie said trying to avoid looking at Baden. "Just a pair of tights and a fitted shirt."

"Whatever for?" Antoinette seemed confused. Annie glanced over to Baden who had a wide grin on his face. He raised his shoulders as if to say, 'yes Annie, whatever for'? She looked back to Antoinette to answer.

"Eli and I have taken up a more active past time that will require less restricting clothing," she explained avoiding having to say what they had started doing.

"We begin," Antoinette declared. She seemed to understand the English language better than she could speak it. She dragged Annie into the dressing room in a whirl. Annie barely had time to glance back at Baden who sat there smiling.

Soon she was fitted with loose pants and a shirt that was hitched up with pins all around her.

"Just moment," Antoinette said, forgetting to speak properly in her rush to attend to a customer that she heard come into the store. Annie was looking at her outfit when she heard someone walk into the dressing room.

"I think these pants..." She paused when she looked up and saw Baden standing there. Hands in pockets, he sauntered over to her and inspected her outfit. She was standing on a small wooden stool which made her closer to his height.

"I must say, I have never seen a woman look quite so good in pants," he expressed his appreciation openly. "Why is dear Eli missing this delightful sight?" He asked randomly, watching her to see her reaction.

"He..." She stopped herself from telling him he was out of town. On the ride into town she had finally decided to try and keep herself guarded when it came to Baden but with him so close she was failing miserably. Damn him for looking so appealing with his casual clothes and suave attitude. "He did not accompany me in town today!" She blurted out.

Baden couldn't help the look of surprise that came across his face when he sensed that she lied to him. He could tell she was trying to protect herself from him and it made him panic.

"Or is it that he is away?" He moved closer to her as if this would make her admit the truth.

"What would it matter if he were?" She asked defensively. She had no idea what game he was playing.

"I suppose it would not matter." He looked down at her hands to check for a ring. "No nuptials are in place?" She couldn't believe it, again with this.

"I think you best go, Antoinette will be back soon." She didn't really want him to go but he was so up and down she was starting to think she would never figure him out. He was about to say something then stopped abruptly, he looked off to one side then back to her.

"Until next time." Is all he said before he left. She could hear Antoinette coming so she regrouped herself before she came in.

The rest of the appointment continued with no further interruptions. Garrick was there to meet her, as he said he would be, and they made it home just before dusk.

"Garrick, I am feeling rather tired. I will go without dinner tonight. I will be in my room if you need me," Annie said as she walked up the stairs. She locked herself in her room and readied for bed, wondering why she felt so down.

Annie had only just started falling asleep when she heard a noise. The moon was full and she had left the curtains open, bathing the room in a sea of moon-blue. She sat up, grabbed the dagger from her bedside table that she used for her hair and held it tightly in her hand.

"Lovely night," Baden said from the shadows. Annie closed her eyes in relief. She quickly pulled her hair back with the dagger and tried to see through the dark. Giving up she laid back down, facing away from where he stood by the window, to try and show him that she wasn't in the mood.

"Baden, I am tired and need sleep. What is it that you want?" She felt annoyed. He could appear whenever it pleased him and she had no say in it. If he came declaring his love, that would be a different matter but when he visited he just confused her even more.

He walked over and laid down in front of her on top of the bed covers, sliding dangerously close to her. She looked up at him nervously, unsure of what to do with him so near. He leaned over and gently tugged the dagger out of her hair, allowing her tresses to fall down her back and across the pillow

"I like it when you wear your hair down," he whispered as he leaned over and placed the dagger on the bedside table. She had been irritated by him just a moment ago but now she had lost herself. How did he do that? "Annie," he said her name whimsically. "What am I to do with you?" He looked at her carefully.

"I am unsure of what you mean," she said softly. He slid his hand across the mattress, closing the short distance between them, and touched hers that was resting beside her.

"You make me forget myself," he admitted. Finally he took her hand in his and used his other to pull her even closer, so she was lying right in front of him. They faced each other as they rested on their sides. He pulled her hand up and inspected it very closely.

"Is that something I should appreciate?" She asked watching him. She liked the soft look on his face. His eyes moved to her and he thought for a long moment before he slid closer. Their faces just inches apart on the pillow.

"At first that terrified me more than any other thing has in my life," he said seriously, as if he was admitting to a crime. "I had just returned to this town and as soon as I saw you I had decided to leave." She wasn't sure where the confession was headed but it felt like it was building up to something big. "I was on my way, never to return when I came across you in the graveyard that night."

"Oh," she said breathlessly.

"I was running from how you made me feel but when I found you there it caught up to me. After I carried you back to the manor, later that night I realised that I loved you." He said the words so tenderly that she stopped breathing. "The thing that frightened me the most was that you might love me back one day."

"Baden, I..." But he cut her off.

"You should not," he said before she could tell him how she felt. She was hurt that he didn't want her love. "And I should not want you..." She looked away from him trying not to cry from his words. "But I do." She quickly looked back to him and he leaned even closer. "Your friend said that love is not something that just falls into your lap. Once I would have said that it is something that does not exist at all, in any form. I have seen betrayals between brothers, affairs between marriages and murders for motives of evil pleasure."

For reasons he could not explain his heart started beating fast with nerves. It may have been that he was fearful to kiss her but he knew he was going to. He just hoped with everything in him that it would be enough, that his love would be enough.

"But I think your friend may be correct in saying it does not fall into your lap." Annie felt disappointed that he would agree because even without knowing him she felt for him something she had never felt, and probably would never feel, for anyone else. He continued after a pause.

"It is more like a gushing torrent that knocks you over and it takes all of your strength just to move to the surface. But when you take that first breath you realise that before that moment...you had not been breathing at all."

Annie had read sonnets and plays and even had people tell her about love but it all meant nothing in comparison to how she felt from Baden's words. He leaned in closer so their lips were almost touching and he lingered there for a moment, deciding whether to kiss her. He searched her face and then rested his gaze to meet her eyes. It felt like he would if he didn't kiss her, if he didn't show her how he felt. The thought of hiding it from her any longer was almost too much for him to bear because he needed her to know. He needed her to see what was in his soul. And the only thing left within him was her.

So knowing how he felt and what he knew of himself, he pressed his lips against hers. When he felt Annie's soul do nothing but bathe in ecstasy his relief was paramount and he pulled her body against his.

Her lips moved with his and even though this was her first kiss, somehow they found their way around his lips as if they fit. Like they were made for his. She thought his taste was something she would never tire of as she drank him in. Her hands crept up into his hair and he gripped her back from the thrill of it. He almost lost all control within him to hold himself back but somehow he managed to restrain it. He would do anything to make her feel safe.

So before they could lose themselves in the moment Baden pulled away just enough to break their kiss. Annie was left breathless and wanting more, Baden was left in euphoria. His heart beat fast and for the first time in years he felt human again.

"I love you." He sounded a fool to his own ears, as did all the others he had heard declare their love, but this time he understood why they suffered the cynicism.

"I love you," she said with a small smile. He pulled her closer into him and she rested her head against his chest. He kissed the top of her head and let out a breath of relief. This was going to change everything about him but somehow he wasn't afraid to let it.

This time was different for Annie. When Micah had told her he loved her it did nothing but fill her with fear. But loving Baden did nothing except fill her with a certain peace and joy that can't be felt unless you are in love.

And in this one small moment in both of their lives they had the illusive instance of unadulterated belief that their love would be enough, no matter what obstacle foreshadowed them. Time would prove either them or human nature wrong. The question was which one would it be?
CHAPTER 16

The next morning Annie woke to find Baden awake next to her. All of a sudden she felt vulnerable with him and it felt good. He smiled at her as the sun shone on his face and lit up his blue eyes. It made her feel warm

"How is it that you look rested and made for the day, where as I am dishevelled and exhausted?" She asked as she rubbed her face to try and push away the sleepiness. He chuckled at her cute behaviour whilst he played with a curl of her hair.

"I think you look quite appealing, Annie," he said with a certain look in his eyes. She had seen that look from other men but this time she realised what it meant. And she felt it too.

Just as she was about to return his playfulness with her own, the smile fell from his face and a scowl replaced it.

"What is the matter?" She asked anxiously.

"I believe Eli has just arrived home," he informed. Annie had no idea how he would know that. Baden stood up from the bed and walked over to the window abruptly, swinging them open so he could leave. He avoided looking at her as her eyes trailed after him. "I must be going." His words sounded blunt and she didn't know why he had changed all of a sudden. She sat up quickly and jumped out of bed in panic.

"Wait, would you like to meet him?" She offered. Losing some of his irritation at the interruption he turned and sat on the windowsill. He took a moment to look at her, to let her soul calm him.

"Maybe another time," he said reluctantly. She rushed over to him and grabbed his hand, stopping him from leaving. He looked down at their clasped hands and then at her. He allowed the rest of his anger to fall away and he pulled her close, kissing her briefly. His soul warmed, feeling the thrill from holding her.

"Until next time," he promised. She couldn't help but smile because she knew the reason he would come back was because he loved her. As he moved to leave she quickly kissed his cheek. He paused and a smile spread across his face, then he was gone.

Before she could spend half the morning day dreaming, an awful clatter sounded from downstairs, then she heard Eli yell. Falling back to reality she ripped off her night dress and threw on a simple yellow dress, pulling her hair back with her dagger. She ran half way down the staircase, pausing when she saw Garrick clearing the hallway of luggage that was strewn in Eli's wake.

"Garrick, what is going on?" She asked as she ran down the rest of the way. He looked to her, dismay on his face.

"Mr. Brighton's trip did not happen according to plan," he explained. Annie jumped when she heard a loud bang come from the library. She started walking to the room but Garrick gently held her arm and stopped her. "I am not sure if that is wise," he warned. She hesitated before she decided to continue.

"I cannot claim to ever have been wise," she said defiantly before she went to the library.

The mess she came upon was shocking. Daggers had been darted across the room and lodged into the wood of the book shelves. Pillows were scattered across the floor, furniture pushed out of place and the contents atop his desk was in shambles. Eli sat hunched at his desk, hands holding his head. She approached him cautiously and stopped a few feet away from the desk to keep some distance.

"Eli..." He already knew she had walked in but he only looked up to her when she said his name. He rested his chin on his fists as if he had given up on everything. "What is the matter?" She asked. He took a breath before he spoke.

"Nothing," he said flatly. He stood and started fixing the mess on his desk. She couldn't believe he was trying to act as if nothing was wrong, when clearly there was.

"Eli, when nothing is wrong you do not attack your own library," she reasoned.

"It is of no importance," he persisted.

"Tell me," she demanded, not giving him an option. He stopped what he was doing and looked up at her.

"I was going to meet my brother but he did not come," he answered as if that would be enough.

"I am so sorry, Eli," she said regretfully, sadness obvious in her voice. To her surprise he started laughing.

"Do not feel too dejected on my part, Annie. It was not going to be a pleasant reunion." He spoke as he continued to clean.

"Possibly one day it might be," she said trying to find hope in the situation. He threw the papers down and gave up.

"It will never be. He is dead to me and there is nothing on earth that will ever change the situation." She nodded, stopping herself from saying anymore. She turned to leave to give him some privacy but before she made it out the door he spoke. "Sorry," he said.

She turned to him and, though there was a whole room between them, she could tell that he needed her to stay. She mazed her way through the now dishevelled room and towards him. He stood watching her make her way and he almost lost his efforts against his tears from the kindness and forgiveness she was showing by coming to him.

When she finally made it around the desk and to him she didn't hesitate to embrace him. He rested his face into her neck and wrapped his arms around her waist.

"Sorry," he whispered again.

"Do not be sorry," she whispered back.

Garrick came to the open door but stopped when he saw them. He turned silently and left them to their moment. He couldn't help but hope that Eli would smarten up and pursue that girl before she was lost to someone else.

After a long, comfortably silent embrace, Eli pulled his head back and looked at Annie.

"Thank you," he said gratefully. She smiled at him in hopes to cheer him.

When his gaze started becoming more intense her smile dropped a little. He moved his head towards her and she panicked. She wasn't the kind of girl that told a man she loved him the night before and then kissed another the next morning. She subtly moved her head away then pretended something had bitten her.

"Ouch!" She yelled and he pulled his head back, looking at her in question. She bent down and grabbed the lower part of her leg and he released her from his hold. "There was a sudden pain in my leg," she lied. She hobbled over to the closest chair and sat, rubbing her leg. Eli followed her and knelt at her feet. He lifted her leg into his lap and looked to her.

"May I?" He asked. She nodded, not being able to think of anything to stop him. He lifted her dress to just below her knee and inspected the part of her leg that she had been holding. He ran his hand along the back of her leg and took his time with the inspection. It sent a shiver down her spine but she covered it before he noticed.

"Anything?" She asked trying to maintain her act. He carefully placed her foot back on the floor and covered her leg before answering.

"Everything looks fine," he diagnosed.

"Must have been one of those things," she said hoping Eli hadn't already cottoned on to what was happening. He leaned his arm on one of the chair's armrests and smiled at her.

"Annie, it is not a crime to not kiss me," he said. She smiled shyly at being caught out. "Just know that if you change your mind, I will be an option." He said it so sweetly that she almost wanted to kiss him.

She looked at his soft lips and thought about what they might feel like against hers, wondering if he had a special taste like Baden did. Before she could go any further with the thought, she snapped herself out of it and looked around the room.

"This is quite a mess!" She sounded a little flustered, even to her own ears. She hoped with everything in her that she wasn't blushing. "We must get to cleaning," she suggested trying to change the intense subject. He nodded with a smile, taking her hint.

"Do not bother yourself with my mess, I will clean it." He stood and moved back to his desk to start straightening his things.

"Nonsense, you are my friend and friends help one another," she said merrily. She stood as she spoke, as if to affirm the words. He couldn't help but smile at her thoughtfulness.

"Very well, if you insist then I cannot say no," he conceded.

It took an hour to clean the entire library but soon enough the library was restored to its former self and their friendship was looking more improved by the moment.
CHAPTER 17

Annie was walking to the kitchen one day when Garrick came back from town, bringing some letters in with him.

"Here, Garrick. Let me take them to Eli for you," she offered to spare him from taking it. He smiled kindly and handed the letters to her. He hadn't even had a chance to look through them yet.

"You are too thoughtful, Annie," he complimented, impressed by her benevolence. With a smile she was off to deliver the letters.

As she took the letters with her to the library she flicked through them just to see how many there were. One in particular had lovely writing and it caught her eye, she placed it at the top of the pile so she could see it better. The writing addressing the recipient was elegant and classic. She couldn't help but admire the swooping curves and the noticeable effort the writer had put in. She walked into the library and found Eli at his desk. He looked up and gave her a ready smile.

"Eli, I have the letters from Garrick for you. I must say that the person who wrote on this one has the loveliest hand," she commented as she held it up for his inspection. As soon as he saw the writing his smile dropped and he stood up immediately. She stopped before she reached the desk and he hurried over to her.

"It is from my brother," he said as he took the letter from her. She held the others as he broke the wax seal. He read it quickly then looked up at her.

"What does he want?" She asked feeling desperate with anticipation.

"He said he is coming here." Eli looked horrified. He moved over to his desk and started ruffling through the papers. He found a blank piece and started writing.

"Why is that not good news?" She asked curiously, she was unsure of why he was so panicked.

"Annie, we must arrange temporary accommodation for you. I cannot explain why but for the period of his stay you will be residing at a property I own, it is a few minutes ride from here. I will provide you with a horse in case of an emergency but no one must know you are there. Do you understand?" Eli spoke as he wrote. After he had signed his letter he blew on the ink then folded the paper. He left it on the desk as he rushed towards the door.

"Eli, do not be silly," Annie said as she followed him. He ignored her and stopped at the door, poking his head around the corner.

"Garrick," he called down the hall then walked back to his desk. Annie followed him around, feeling completely lost in it all. Garrick walked into the room and stopped when he reached the desk.

"Yes, Mr. Brighton?" Garrick looked at the letter that Eli had received from his brother sitting open on the desk.

"As you can see I have had more correspondence from my brother. I have written a letter that will need to be sealed then sent away immediately. Annie will be staying at the Westwood estate until the matter is dealt with," Eli advised. He handed Garrick the letter that needed to be sent.

"Would you like me to stay with her?" Garrick asked.

"No. No one can stay with her and no one is to know where she is. She will be safe as long as she does not invite anyone in and we will provide her with sufficient supplies. It needs to be as if she does not exist," he explained.

"Excuse me!" Annie interrupted. The men looked at her as if they only just realised she was there. "What on earth is happening?" Eli blinked a few times before he looked back to Garrick without answering her.

"That will be all for now," Eli said and Garrick left.

"Do not just ignore me, Eli!" Annie demanded. He didn't seem shocked or hurt by her tone. He simply walked over to her and took both of her hands in his.

"Do you trust me, Annie?" He asked looking into her eyes. The question pushed the steam right out of her and she wasn't sure what to do. After a moment she finally spoke.

"Yes," she answered honestly.

"Good. Now in life we sometimes need to ask our friends to just trust us, without the questions," he said pleadingly.

She thought about what he said and a million other questions swam to mind. This mysterious brother, would he not be a tracker also? Unless his father had a son to another woman, in which case he might prefer to keep that private. Eli deserved his privacy. And if she really thought about it, though she hadn't known him for very long, she found that she did trust him. He had earned her trust and being his friend she decided to give it to him.

"Fine," she conceded as she rolled her eyes. He smiled and kissed her hands.

"You are too good, Annie." This earned him another eye roll and an exaggerated nod from her. "Now I thought we could have a lesson today," he said hopefully. He was acting as if the past few minutes never happened, which was contrary to how he had acted just days ago because of his brother.

Seeing no use for it she gave up her curiosity, just as he had given up his urgency, and let the mood lighten. One thing she had learned about Eli was that he was in control of when he revealed anything to her. In fact, he was in control of just about everything in his life really, including parts of her life. Before the thought could become disconcerting she became distracted with other thoughts.

"That would be excellent but I would like to clarify a few things first." She was adamant to clear up some of her questions whilst she had the opportunity. "Before you left the other day, you were going to tell me about snatchers and what they were designed to do," she reminded. It had been gnawing at her interest for days now.

"Yes. We were interrupted." Eli let go of her hands and gestured for her to take a seat. He sat in a chair closest to the one she chose. After they were settled he started. "Do you remember in the myth, the woman was granted eternal youth in exchange for her soul?" Annie nodded to show her understanding. "And it had to be her own soul because no one else would love her more than she loved herself?"

"Yes, it is strange really because I think she was someone obsessed with herself rather than someone who truly loved herself but continue," Annie offered.

"And she sacrificed only those who truly loved her?" He waited to see that they were on the same page before he continued. "If a soul snatcher can make someone fall in love with them then they can steal their soul with just a kiss," Eli explained.

"Because hers was taken with a kiss," she said as she put it together.

"That is correct," he commended her. "If they steal a soul then the bane goes into a form of hibernation, keeping them preserved without needing anything to stop the bane from burning them. This is what they were truly designed for, the blood is only a method used to preserve them until they can do what they were truly made for."

"So how long can a soul snatcher go between souls?" She wondered feeling disturbed by the notion. This seemed more frightening than the other things she had heard.

"However long the soul would have lasted in the original body. So if it was taken from a young woman or man it could last decades, unless they were someone who was going to meet their demise early in life. That is the trick with snatching, it is a gamble," he explained.

"What happens when the soul...expires, for lack of a better term," she asked feeling rather eerie about it all.

"We are not certain what happens to the stolen soul when it departs but the snatcher must drink blood or steal another soul within moments of losing the last one, otherwise they perish. Now it is not until a human is genuinely in love that they can lose their soul," Eli stressed the point.

"That seems even more horrible than drinking blood," Annie said feeling sick about it. She went a little pale from the very thought of having her own soul stolen by someone she trusted. To be so betrayed by someone you thought loved you.

"It is all rather terrible and it is happening too often. Obviously the ones who were turned by poorly kept snatchers or drank tainted blood have very little chance of finding someone to love them. So that leaves the unblemished, enticing snatchers that humans would probably never suspect." His tone sounded as if he was warning her.

"Well, I will be on the lookout for attractive men who want to declare their love for me. If you were not a tracker you would be at the top of my list." She had no idea why she said it, maybe to try and take away the fear she felt. It worked because now she just felt stupid and awkward but Eli being Eli rescued her from herself.

"Any other questions, Annie?" He asked, pushing past the discomfort. In an effort to rein in his affection for her he opted to keep the word 'precious' out of his sentence. She shook her head avoiding looking at his eyes. "Then we shall start our lesson once you have changed." She gave him a grateful smile and went to get dressed.

When she was out of the room he went over to the letter on the desk and read it again. If his brother found out about Annie, Eli had no idea what he would do. All he knew was that he would protect Annie at any cost, even if it came down to his own life.
CHAPTER 18

As Annie slept, Baden made his way into her room. Without disturbing her he laid down on the mattress beside her and just watched her chest rise and fall with every steady breath. He lightly touched her hair as he wondered what she was dreaming of, hoping it was something beautiful. Her soul felt at ease and it made his feel lighter because of it.

He slipped his arm around her and she stirred from his touch. He paused a moment to try and give her time to fall back to sleep but she woke up nevertheless. Her eyes fluttered opened and it took a moment for them to adjust to the dark. When she felt Baden's arm around her she smiled contentedly.

"Where have you been, Baden?" She asked drowsily as she snuggled up next to him. He smiled at how she made him feel.

"What do you mean, my Annie?" He whispered into her ear. Her smile widened at the sweet way he said her name, she loved how he called her, 'my Annie'.

"The past few nights you have not come to visit." Her eyes were closed because she was still half asleep but she was grateful that he was near.

"I have come every night but you have slept through my visits." He laughed a little whilst he explained. Her eyes shot open in surprise at his words. She looked up at him but could barely see through the dark.

"I have been asleep each time?" She asked, horrified that she might have done something ridiculously embarrassing in her sleep. "Please agree to wake me when you arrive. Or at the very least, stay until I am awake," she negotiated, pretending to be indignant. He smiled at her fun and pulled her closer.

"I will do whatever you say," he said with more meaning than she knew.

She took a deep breath to take in his smell. She never knew someone could smell so good, or that a smell would become something important in her life but somehow it had and it made everything seem better.

"I must tell you that I will be away for a few days." She told him in hopes that he would offer to visit.

"Where will you be going?" He asked with particular interest.

"Somewhere...was it the Weston estate?" She pondered aloud.

"Westwood," Baden corrected.

"Yes, how did you know?" Annie wasn't suspicious at all in her sleepy state. Even if she had been completely awake she still wouldn't doubt Baden.

"It was owned by one of the richest families in this town and after they left I believe, was it the Brighton family who added it to their extensive list of estates?" He rattled off the information easily.

"Yes, it was. You know your history," she commented. "So I will be there because Eli's brother is coming to town and Eli arranged for me to stay there." She thought how lovely it was to have Baden close.

"Did he say why you had to stay there?" Baden asked curiously.

"No, he avoided telling me. No matter, there is no harm in me staying there. It would be rather lovely to have a secret visitor..." She hinted nervously. Baden had no issues with going there, the only problem was that he had never been invited in or resided there before he had been changed. Before Annie could feel too worried about his delayed response he spoke.

"That could be arranged." He tickled along her back and she felt relieved that he would follow her. She drifted off to sleep, more content by knowing Baden was there.

"Annie, there is something I need to tell you." Baden waited for her to say something. When she didn't respond he looked down and saw she was asleep. He kissed her forehead softly so as not to wake her. "I love you," he whispered to her and she smiled in her sleep. He stayed until she woke the next day, just as he had promised he would.

Soon the day came for Annie to leave for the Westwood estate. The carriage was loaded with provisions for her stay and some of her belongings. Eli and Annie stood outside under the warmth of the morning sun before she had to leave.

"By the look of it you expect your brother to be staying for at least a century," Annie joked as she took in the sight of the carriage and Eli couldn't help but laugh.

"Let us hope it does not come to that," he said as he helped her into the carriage. She peeked her head out of the window when the door was closed. Garrick was escorting her on her trip so he stood off to the side fixing the horses whilst they said their goodbyes.

As Annie and Eli were speaking, a rider came hurrying into the gates and approached them. As they trotted closer Annie could see it was Micah. He purposely avoided looking at her and it hurt to have him act so cold, no matter how much she prepared herself for it. Micah didn't bother to dismount because it was only going to be a short visit.

"Mr. Brighton, Miss Danes would like to invite you to dinner upon her return in a month's time. She referred to it as an armistice." After Micah delivered the message orally he handed a piece of paper to Eli, who took it graciously. Annie was shocked that it was still going to be that long before Miss Danes would return, what on earth could she be doing?

"Unfortunately that is an invitation I must decline," Eli refused politely without reading the letter.

"With all due respect, Mr. Brighton Miss Danes stressed in her correspondence to not take 'no' for an answer." Annie watched Micah as he spoke and she saw his jaw clench in anger. Why was he so upset? He looked different to what she remembered, he had always been so gentle and sweet. Now he seemed hard and angry. He glanced over at her but averted his gaze when he saw she was looking at him.

"Whether you accept the answer or not, it remains a definite no. I suggest you best leave before you take on more trouble than it is worth, Micah." Eli tried to keep his tone civil but failed.

"Very well, I shall pass on your response accordingly," Micah said and left before another word could be spoken. Eli turned to Garrick when Micah was out of sight.

"Pay close attention whilst you travel," he advised meaningfully. Garrick nodded and jumped into the driver's seat of the carriage. Eli turned to Annie and smiled as if nothing had happened.

"Is there something I should know?" Annie asked hoping Eli would be honest with her.

"Nothing that cannot wait until you return. Now tell me, what must you be sure to do?" He asked as if he was addressing a child.

She rolled her eyes and sat back in the seat, hiding herself from his view. He jumped up on the footstool below the carriage door and leaned his head in through the window, looking at her expectantly.

"I must not invite anyone in under any circumstance. You will come for me when your brother has left and if there is cause I must ride on the horse provided and come straight back to the manor. That is only if it is necessary. Necessary being; if the house is on fire and is burning down, if you have come for me and you are in my sight or there is an intruder," Annie repeated the spiel she had been taught. Eli smiled at her expressionless rendition.

"You, my dear are wonderful." He leaned in and kissed her on the cheek.

She couldn't help but cheer up from his actions. She felt a little like a prisoner but none of it mattered because she would still be able to see Baden. Eli jumped off the carriage and waved them out of the gate. He hoped after his brother's visit it would all be over.

Annie sat in the carriage for what felt like no time at all before they approached the house. The structure sat alone at the top of a hill that was completely surrounded by trees. Garrick helped her out of the carriage once they had stopped and started to collect her things.

"Garrick, was this a more humble abode for the Westwood family?" She asked, inspecting the modest looking house from afar. It was not run down but it did not seem to suit the title of 'wealthy'.

"Yes. This was one of their more private properties. They came here when they needed space. How did you know?" Garrick asked confused. Annie realised her slip when she remembered that Baden had been the one to tell her about the family.

"Living in such a small town makes it difficult to keep secrets," she said quickly trying to fix her mistake. Garrick was under the impression that the Westwood's were a private family and only a few select families knew them well, but it must not have been the case. Without a second thought he went back to unloading everything and forgot about their conversation.

Soon enough all of Annie's clothes and provisions were in the house. It may have been a modest house but it was neat and charming none the less. The light blue paint and white trimmings were not faded or scuffed. There were no cobwebs and it was clean of dust. The furniture was simple, most if it was ivory coloured, and the feel of the house was welcoming. There were three bedrooms, a kitchen, a parlour, a reading room and a study. So it may have been a little further from the definition of modest than she once thought but compared to the extravagant lifestyle of the wealthy it could fall under that category. After everything was packed away and Garrick had double checked the house, Annie stood at the door with Garrick to say goodbye.

"You have your daggers?" He checked.

"Yes, I do," she assured him. She was very much ready for some time alone. Not that she was irritated by Garrick, she was just someone who valued her own space.

"I shall reassure Mr. Brighton. The horse is tied up at the side of the house if you need. We will be back to fetch you in no time, Miss Belle," he promised.

"Thank you, Garrick. Have a safe trip home." He gave her a smile as he left and she returned the gesture.

Annie closed the door and locked it. She went straight for the books she had packed. She picked the one she most felt like reading, went to the parlour and started a fire. Soon she was settled in for a peaceful night.
CHAPTER 19

Annie had been at the house for two days and she hadn't heard from anyone. The most disappointing part was that she hadn't heard from Baden. She had entertained herself by reading books, writing and going over the things Eli had taught her during their lessons.

One night when she had finished cleaning up from dinner and was headed to the parlour with a book, there was a knock at the door. She paused and stood at the end of the hall, staring at the front door. Should she answer it? When she hadn't decided, whoever it was knocked again. It had to be someone she knew...didn't it? The small doubt that is was a stranger at the door made her hesitate.

As silently as she could, she quickly raced and grabbed the dagger that went in her hair. It was the only one she was able to find. She left the book in her room and crept up to the door. Trying to hold back her fear she clenched the dagger in her fist. Who could it be? She stood at the door in indecision. She looked down and realised that she was only wearing a nightdress, which was white and very revealing. She was about to run and get something to cover herself when the visitor spoke.

"Annie, it is Baden," he called out to her. She let out the breath she had been holding and moved to open the door. As she did she realised she still had the dagger in her hand. To conceal it she wrapped it up in her hair and opened the door, smile ready.

"Baden, you almost frightened me to death!" She said, relief obvious in her voice.

He tilted his head just a little and smiled at her in such a way that it chased away all of her previous fear. He was looking absolutely delicious as always, in a simple ivory slip-shirt and casual black pants. She loved how he flouted society's social conventions and dressed however he pleased. She moved to him happily and he enfolded her in his arms. As she rested her face on his chest she couldn't help but think about how he had come to mean so much to her in such a short amount of time. In her rush to touch him she hadn't realised that she stepped outside of the house when she went to him.

"Sorry I frightened you," he apologised, smelling her hair contentedly. He couldn't help but relish in the joy he felt stirring in her soul.

"What are you doing out here? Come inside with me where it is warm," she invited. He smiled to himself, glad he didn't have to work out a way to get inside.

"Lead the way," he said. She took his hand and walked inside, closing the door behind them and locking it. He inspected the house as they walked through.

"Where have you been?" She asked as they walked into the parlour. A fire was already lit and Annie sat close to the warmth it was casting on a large, brown leather sofa. Baden joined her, sitting close so their bodies were touching. It made her heart beat faster and he smiled when he heard it.

"I was not sure if there would be people here when you first arrived so I held back," he explained easily enough. He became distracted by the way her skin looked in the firelight. He touched her lightly on the cheek and she lost whatever it was she was going to say. He slid even closer to her on the divan and leaned his face near to hers. Their lips were almost touching. "Tell me, Annie. How much do you love me?" He asked, dropping his hand from her cheek to her waist. She sucked in a breath and looked at him, trying to find words.

"I feel more in love with you with each passing day," she said breathlessly.

He leaned in and kissed the side of her neck softly and slowly. Nerves trickled into her stomach and her breathing faltered. Again Baden couldn't help but smile. He wanted her to love him more than anything he ever wanted before.

"I find myself falling in love with you more than I thought possible," he whispered to her, his breath brushing against her neck. She was surprised at how intense his feelings were in such a short time but weren't hers intense too?

He pulled his head back and looked at her. The longer he stared the more she felt like she fell into him. She couldn't even remember her own name or where she was, all she could think was that Baden was with her. Just when she felt like she couldn't feel any more overwhelmed he slipped his arm around her waist. He pulled her towards him and leaned towards her which made her lean back, leaving no other option than for her to lie down against the soft cushions. Her legs were resting across his lap and Baden was leaning over her.

"Tell me a secret," he asked. He watched her face closely, memorising everything about it, just as he had every other time he had seen her. She contemplated what she was about to say carefully and finally decided to tell him. She mustered up her courage and spoke.

"Ever since you saved me I have dreamt of you every night," she confessed. He took a moment to let what she said sink in. His silence made her fear that he thought her foolish but a satisfied smile soon came across his stunning face and abated her worries.

The fire fell softly on part of her face and he couldn't help but touch it. Her skin was warm and appealing. He liked that he wanted to bite into her prefect, warm, pulsing neck. Maybe just one bite? He would make sure he was gentle. He would not hurt her, just a taste?

He slid his hand down to her neck slowly, seductively. He could feel her chest rise and fall against him, he enjoyed the feeling of life in her. She was barely covered by her sheer nightgown and it teased with hints of skin in all the right places. He looked down to her lips that sat partly open in desire, wanting him to kiss them. He had always wanted to drink someone through their lips but he never had because there was no one who had tempted him to. There was something intimate about it that made him keep it for someone who lured him into the act. Now he wanted it more than maybe his self-control could contain.

He leaned towards her forgetting himself for a moment. His teeth gripped her bottom lip tightly but he paused when he remembered himself. Maybe it was the hint of fear in her eyes that stopped him or maybe that was hope he saw?

The problem Baden found with the skin of Annie's lip was that it was delicate and though he controlled himself it didn't stop the small trickle of blood that escaped. Just a drop or so fell into his mouth and spread across his tongue. He paused a moment in alarm but when she did not scream he sucked just a little to pull a few more drops through her lip.

Her blood was warm and tingled on his tastebuds. It tasted like lust felt. It was unbridled and passionate and full of intense flavour. Nothing else had ever tasted like her and he knew nothing else would. In that moment of inner debate that precedes the rush of adrenaline from wanting someone no matter what, he let go of her lip but remained close enough so their lips were still touching. He pulled one of her legs over him and moved so they were both completely lying down on the settee; her legs draped either side of him, him lying on her.

He ran his hand along the skin of her inner thigh and felt the desire pulsing through her soul. This was more intense than any other time he had ever wanted anything, more so than his desire to kill had ever been. This time it wasn't his hatred fuelling him, like everything in his past, but his soul's desire to have her. He pushed his arm under her back, which brought her closer against him, and gently held her neck from behind with his hand. Her head fell back allowing her neck to sit bare and unprotected. He moved his face away from hers just enough to see her slightly swollen lip, lightly stained with her blood. He looked into her eyes and saw the recognition of what he was. He paused waiting to see what she would do.

Annie looked up at Baden and lost all of her breath. The warm fire only exposed part of his face and he looked just as beautiful as he always did, if not even more. His eyes were lit by the fire and burned a brilliant blue, making him look unearthly. The only thing out of place was the hint of blood that rested on his lips.

Suddenly she remembered back to when she invited him in, to the times he would appear out of nowhere and his unexplainable curiousness. She realised what he was. She had felt him draw the blood out of her lip and now she lay there wrapped in his arms, utterly vulnerable to him. Her neck exposed, waiting for him.

Somehow, instead of being afraid she felt eager to have him all the more. A strand of hair had fallen onto his forehead so she lifted her hand and calmly moved it back into place.

He watched her carefully as she rested her arm back down by her side. He looked right into her eyes and after a moment of what looked like consideration she tilted her head off to one side. The movement was minimal but he saw the invitation she was extending, she was asking him to bite her. He could feel the craving in her soul. Before he let his need control him he slowed himself. He moved with caution and never looked away from her eyes as he moved toward her neck. His lips had stuck together from her salty blood and he eased them apart in anticipation. The closer he moved the faster her heart beat. When his lips were inches away from her neck he whispered to her.

"I would never hurt you," he promised. She took a deep, shuddering breath from the anticipation.

Ever so slowly he placed his lips against her neck and kissed her. It left a faint stain of blood on her skin in the shape of his lips. He dragged his mouth open against her neck and grazed her skin gently with his teeth. He would do this carefully so she felt no pain, only pleasure. He tilted his head to one side and measured a small distance with his teeth, enough so it would give him a mouthful but still keep her clean.

It was best to puncture quickly, once he did he could help her enjoy it. Along his travels he had been taught how to release a different kind of bane, not one that would turn the one who was bitten but one that would equally spread through their body with a different purpose. That purpose was to make the experience of being bitten far more than enjoyable, it made it incomparable. Some humans had become addicted to it and paid for snatchers to bite them. They were risking their lives but they found the pleasure worth the risk. With this in mind he pushed his body into hers to distract her and sunk his teeth into her skin.

The taste of her skin was milky and sweet but her blood was intoxicating. Mixed together they made a smooth, sweet and exceptionally drinkable fusion. He let his bane spill into her as he drank. A small trickle of blood ran down her neck and along her chest but she didn't have time to notice.

Annie didn't have time to feel the pain of being bitten before the bane started spreading through her. As it rushed through her body it warmed her and became overwhelming. She felt closer to Baden than she thought was possible and she pulled herself even closer to him with her arms around his neck. She willingly threw her head back further to expose her neck even more and he growled from the rush it gave him to have her willingly give herself. She gripped his back in an attempt to mediate the feeling and she couldn't help but let out a scream. Baden knew full well he wasn't hurting her. Her whole body tingled from him and she thought she might die from how utterly rapturous it was.

It was almost as if she hoped she would die. And at that moment she thought she might be willing too, for him.
CHAPTER 20

Baden took in one last mouthful, carefully measuring out a safe portion so he wouldn't harm Annie. Somehow he could control himself better with her.

He moved his head back and covered her bleeding neck with his hand. It would stop soon with his bane in her. He looked at her, his hair ruffled and lips covered with her blood. She looked up into his eyes and then to his lips. He leaned in closer to kiss her. She was about to kiss him, everything in her wanted to kiss him but she moved her head away slightly so he paused. The words soul snatcher had floated into her mind just before their lips met.

"Kiss me," he whispered, studying her closely. His words made her want to cry as they conjured up a fear in her she thought might consume her. He could feel the panic in her soul and he wondered what had changed to make her feel that way.

"What did you say?" She asked trying to mask the dread. She started to recall everything Eli told her about soul snatchers.

"Kiss me," he whispered again and he moved to kiss her. She avoided him again and had to think quickly because if he kissed her he could steal her soul. Her soul argued inside her because she wanted to kiss him but was it safe to? How had she let herself get into such a dangerous situation? After everything she knew she had willingly given in.

"I feel light headed, may I please have a drink?" She asked, hoping to distract him. Before she could blink he was gone.

Baden rushed to get her some water but couldn't find it in the kitchen. There should be a pale of water somewhere, something to drink, anything. He started to panic and had to pause for a moment. She knew what he was now, she knew what he was made to do. Would it change how she felt about him? Would she be suspicious of him? And sadness fell over him as he realised that there was nothing he could do to prove himself to her.

Annie's heart beat so hard she could feel it drumming against her chest. She gently placed her hand on her neck and felt along the side he had bitten. The skin had already healed and all she was left with was a sticky neck from the blood. Some loose strands of her hair stuck to her and she hated the feeling so she pulled the hair free. Doing such a normal act of fixing her hair felt so strange compared to the situation. She couldn't help when a small tear escaped her. She had no hope against him, this was it. How could this be the end?

The saddest part was she still wanted him. She wanted him to want her because he loved her, not just so she could be his next soul. When the disappointment and pain started to move in she refused to let it stay. The only problem was when she pushed it away, it left room for the sorrow of losing him to seep in. The hurt from knowing he wanted her to love him but didn't love her in return made her feel empty. Alone. Yet she was still left wanting him.

Annie resolved that this was exactly what Baden wanted so she tried to pull herself together. There was no time to waste. He would be back any moment and then what? With this in mind she slowly sat up and waited to see if she could hear him. When everything seemed quiet, and all she could hear was the clock ticking, she stood as silently as possible.

She paused a moment to try and hear where he was but he was deathly silent. It was hard not to shake from fear but she did her best to contain herself. When she was satisfied that he wasn't returning she took a small, cautious step. It was hard to concentrate because the bane was still tingling through her body, so she tried to focus as hard as she could.

It felt like an hour passed before her foot made it to the floor. Her breath came out uneven and her lungs felt full as she tried to balance her breath so it wouldn't make so much noise. The fear made it feel like time was standing still and the silence made the dread sharp and unforgiving as it stuck into her chest.

She felt relieved that she was making her way out. That was until the floor creaked under the weight of her foot. Her heart clenched in terror and after the slightest pause everything went at full speed. She broke into a sprint and ran for the door, her heart was racing by the time she reached it. In her rush she slammed into the old, wooden door as she blindly grabbed for the handle. Finally she took hold of the handle and pulled, forgetting that she needed to turn it. When she finally realised her error she turned the handle and the door flew open. She had taken one step out the door and towards freedom only to be seized from behind.

The night was black and cold and it chilled Annie to the bone. Her fear filled scream echoed into the empty night where no one would hear it. Baden turned her around in his arms and silence once again ruled the night as he covered her mouth with his hand. She could barely see his face and it made it all the more petrifying. He moved closer and looked at her. She did everything she could to pull away but he was effortlessly restraining her.

"Annie, please. I do not want to hurt you," he almost pleaded. It sounded so genuine she paused. She breathed heavily from the struggle of trying to escape and her exhaled breath blew the wispy strands of hair away from her face.

Baden's eyes twitched to the side suddenly and she froze. He went from focusing solely on her to looking out into the night. It seemed as if he could hear something that she couldn't. All she could hear was the rain starting to drizzle on the roof. Before she could get wet he whisked her inside and slammed the door, locking it behind them. He held her against the door with his body, one arm restraining her hands and a hand clasping her mouth. He slowly released her mouth and watched her, waiting to see if she would scream. Seeing no use for it she remained silent.

"What is it?" She asked after a moment. Her terror was becoming almost uncontrollable. Baden was looking at her but she could tell he was focusing on whatever was outside.

"There is a snatcher out there," he whispered. She closed her mouth tightly to stop from screaming again. The rain started to fall heavier.

"How do you know?" Her voice came out smaller than a whisper. What should she be more afraid of; the fact that she was stuck inside with a soul snatcher or that in her escape she would come across another?

"I could hear him. He was...feeding." His face looked as if he was pained as he remembered. Suddenly there was a loud bang against the door as if something had slammed against it. It jolted through Annie and she screamed until her throat burned. Baden pulled her away from the door and took her into the parlour. They stopped near the fire and he kept her close to him. She was shaking violently.

"Who is it?" She asked, her voice husky from her screaming. Baden listened as the snatcher jumped up on the roof and slowly made his way over to the other side of the house. He could still hear it over the rain though Annie could hear nothing.

"I am just trying to deduce that as we speak," he answered then a loud smash sounded from her bedroom. She shook vehemently from fear but there was no time to waste.

"He is in," Baden cursed under his breath. He grabbed Annie's hand and ran out the front door into the rain. He didn't have time to try and shelter her. He just had to get her onto the horse and away from there so he could deal with the other snatcher.

Annie could hardly see except for the dull light being cast from the house. She had no idea if Baden was trying to help her or not and now she was trusting him to lead her through the night?

"Get up," he yelled over the rain as he pushed her into the saddle. When she finally realised he was helping her onto the horse their stalker found them. He sped through the rain and grabbed Annie off the steed, taking her far away from Baden.

Her attacker took her partway to the trees then precipitately threw her along the ground causing her to skid to a muddy halt. She could hardly breathe as she choked on the rain that she couldn't keep out of her mouth.

"Nice night for a little fun, Annie," the stranger taunted. His voice made it sound like he licked the words on their way out. She looked up through the dark night, the only light was filtered through the window of the distant house. She struggled to determine if she knew him or not. Before she had the chance to see his face any closer Baden crashed into him and they skidded along the ground, flicking water up as they went.

Annie couldn't see anything after they moved past the light and disappeared into the blackness but she could hear the wild fight between them. It was as if the rain amplified their movements. By the sounds she heard she thought if a human had to suffer through the abuse of the fight that was taking place it would not take long to bring them to an end. All she knew was it didn't matter if Baden or the other snatcher won, either way she had to get to that horse. Both of them would hurt her in very different ways.

She pushed herself off the wet ground in a slippery mess, tripping as she did. She finally got running, finding it hard to balance and keep upright. Why did it have to be raining? The light from the house that cast onto the horse's tail comforted her as she headed for it. She kept her eyes on her goal and tried to ignore the sounds of violence that assailed her ears, violence that might soon be on her.

As she heard the horse bray the water from its nose her relief was stolen away, as was her balance, by the hand that grabbed her ankle. She tripped and fell, only just bracing herself before her face slammed into the ground. She presumed it wasn't Baden taking her, he would at least be gentle with her death.

She was flipped onto her back as the stranger relentlessly dragged her deeper into the night and further away from the horse. She gripped at the soft, slushy, rain-soaked ground hoping to gain a hold but failing every time. She kicked and screamed knowing that there was nothing she could do. Her tears mixed with the rain as they fell down her muddy face. She choked and spluttered on the rain as she was being pulled. She was going to die a hideous, gruesome death and all she could think was Baden must have lost the fight. This somehow filled her with more pain than thoughts of her own imminent demise.

Just as she was about to lose all hope for life something grazed passed her and she heard it collide with the stranger at her ankle. Without missing a beat she pushed herself up as quickly as she could and ran for the horse again, seizing the only chance she might get to stay alive.

Annie ran with everything in her. She wanted to live, she wanted to get away from the fear and the rain and be somewhere no one could get her. She reached the horse and grabbed the slippery reins but as her foot found the stirrup she felt hands grip her. This time anger helped to fuel adrenaline in her and she decided to fight. She was not going to let this stranger win. Amazed that her hair still held her dagger, she had time to pull it from the strands and grip it. This was her only chance. With panic riddled, trembling hands she thrust the point into the chest she could feel close beside her.

She heard him grunt and he fell onto the ground beside her. She didn't bother to hesitate another moment. She jumped onto the horse's back, slipping into the slick saddle. She gathered the reins into her freezing hands and manoeuvred the horse as best she could. Before she sped off into the lonely night she glanced back to the dimly lit figure that lay on the ground. As the water ran into her eyes she thought she saw Baden laying there. She moved her hair away and swept the water from her face but it wouldn't make the image of Baden disappear.

Finally she realised that it was him laying there in the rain, bathed in the small glow of light from the house. She had pushed the dagger into him. She peered down at him, his shirt wet through and sticking to his skin. His hair slicked back from the rain and his eyes closed almost as if he were asleep. His peaceful face was juxtaposed against the sharp, ghastly dagger protruding from him. His hand clenched around the object.

Something snapped Annie out of the daze she was in. She looked around to see if the stranger was still there to no avail. She wasn't sure if she heard something or not but it reminded her that she had to go. After one last look at Baden she kicked the side of the horse and sped off into the night. She trusted the horse to know where to go because she had no idea where she was headed.

As she sped through the rain she couldn't stop the ache in her heart growing until she felt like it split her soul into many small pieces. Baden had come to steal her soul but he managed to break it instead. She wondered if that was any better.

She held onto the reins as if they were her grip on life. She just needed to get home, she just needed to see Eli and then everything would be fine. Her mind raced with thoughts of Baden but she threw them out as best she could. He had been using her, he had been doing what his kind does. He was pretending to love her so she would love him and then he would take her soul.

She wasn't sure what pain caused her tears; the fact that he had played her so easily or that she hurt to know he was gone forever. It was probably better this way, if he was still around he would most likely be able to fool her into believing that he actually cared. Her tears started to become the main hindrance in her vision and even though they were spilling rapidly she could only see through a blurry film as the manor came into view.

Annie had no idea what time it was but there was light spotted throughout the house. As the horse trotted to a slow stop just outside the door she noticed the rain had eased slightly. She practically fell off the horse and dragged herself over to the door. With a heavy heart she pushed the weighty door open with the little energy she had left. Once inside she closed it with just as much effort and leaned against it to rest for a moment.

Head in hands and tears falling down her face, Annie tried to figure out how she was ever going to move on from this. That's if she ever could.
CHAPTER 21

Annie looked down to her clothes and they were so wet she could see straight through them. The rain had washed most the mud off her skin but her clothes were stained from it. Not really caring who saw, she made her way to her room to change into something dry and warm. When she had walked into her bedroom and locked the door she rummaged through the wooden chest at the end of her bed in the dim light cast from the evening sky. The rain seemed to have cleared and though the moon was small, mixed with the starlight it was bright enough.

She found a warm nightgown and dressed in her unlit room, finding no strength to care about anything. Moving to her bed she lay staring at the closed window that had been Baden's entry point. She just had to push it all away; the fact that she had almost died tonight, yet again and the fact that Baden was gone forever. In an attempt to ease the hurt she tried to dwell on how he had used her. That gave a fake coating of normalcy and whenever that coating tried to chip away she would layer it up with another thick coat of, 'he didn't really love me'.

When it all became too much she thought of Eli. He could take her mind off it, he would be able to explain what had happened and why her life had been ripped into shreds. She rushed out of her room, down the stairs to the library and entered without knocking. She stopped suddenly when she saw he wasn't there. She hurried to every other room in the house but she couldn't find Eli or Garrick. Where were they? Panic started to take over. If she was left alone then she wouldn't be able to keep herself together.

"Why are you not home?" She whispered, agony sounding through her small, sad voice. Just as she started to feel hopeless and that she would imminently lose all semblance of togetherness, she heard a horse approaching outside. Relief filled her as she ran to the door and swung it open anticipating Eli's return.

Annie almost jumped when she saw Micah standing there ready to knock. He paused in surprise then lowered his hand, staring at her for a moment. Seeing him broke through every wall she had made to contain her pain and she didn't even think as she moved into his arms, sobbing from the hurt. She buried her face into his clean, crisp shirt, hoping that he could be her friend in this moment. Hesitantly he moved his arms around her and held her as she cried.

"Please, can you just come in and stay a while and be my friend?" She asked weakly through her tears. There was silence before he answered and she thought he was going to say no. She looked up into his face ready to plead with him but he was already nodding his head yes. She grabbed his hand as she always used to and pulled him inside.

For some reason she led him to the library. It was a room full of facts, it had no room for emotions and it felt like that was the best place to be for both of them. Silently they walked to the settee that contained the daggers and made themselves comfortable. Micah kept his distance from Annie which made her feel a little lonely. She subtly moved over towards him, wanting them to be like they used to be. Before life got in the way.

"I am so glad you came back, Micah. I could not live with myself if I never saw you again." She pushed the words out before the tears resumed. He sat there staring with nothing reading on his face. He looked like a statue, emotionless and cold. It made her pain even more acute and the tears persisted. Suddenly warmth crept onto his face and he resembled the old Micah she knew.

"Annie, what is going on?" He asked giving up on his attempts to stay away from her. He put his arm around her shoulders and she melted into his body. He leaned his head atop hers and she felt great comfort from his touch.

"I just...I was..." But when she went to say the words they died before they came out. What was she meant to say? He didn't know anything about soul snatchers and definitely not about Baden. "I need us to be there for one another. Please do not leave me here alone," she pleaded.

She felt as if she was bordering on hysterical. How had her life turned into such a mess? What happened to the days when Micah would ride with her to the markets and they would spend all day together in happiness? No heartbreak and no loss.

"Has someone hurt you?" Micah's tone was serious and she felt his body tense.

Was she hurt? Physically she had a few scrapes and bruises but she would heal from that. Her soul was what she was worried for but not because it would be stolen. No, Baden wasn't around to do that anymore. She was worried about her soul because the pain seemed to be stitching itself into her heart and making a home for itself there.

She cried even more at the thought of him. It felt as if she would willingly give her soul just to have him there with her. Though that was foolish and she knew it.

"No, not in any real way." Annie tried to calm herself and succeeded to some measure. She sniffed and wiped away the tears from her face. Her skin felt stiff from the drying tears as she wiped the salty water from her hands onto her dress. She sat up straighter and took a deep breath to steady her heavy heart. She closed her eyes and tried to forget everything but found it almost impossible.

Micah kept his arm around her and his eyes on her the whole time. His body seized in anger when he saw her neck. He clenched his jaw to try and control himself from bursting out in rage. Annie looked over to him when she noticed something was wrong and was alarmed by his anger.

"Micah, what is the matter?" She asked in panic, placing her hand over his. His breathing became heavy as he tried to rein himself in and she started to become a little scared.

"What happened to your neck?" He asked through gritted teeth. Annie took her hand back and covered the side of her neck that Baden had bitten. She felt lifted skin outlining the shape of his teeth. It was a clean and neat mark, a scar of him. No matter what happened he would be with her forever. She thought herself stupid for feeling relief at the idea. She focused back on Micah who had done nothing but become angrier in her silence.

"It was...you see I had to go..." Damn, what could she say? Micah stood and paced back and forth in front of her, covering his mouth with his hand to try and control himself. She had never seen him so upset and he didn't even know what happened.

Abruptly he picked up the nearest glass object, which happened to be a lovely, glass ornament on one of Eli's tables, and pelted it across the room. It practically shattered into dust as it collided with the wood of the shelves. It left a dint in its wake. Annie stood in an instant, shocked at what he did. She stopped herself from moving to him for fear he might lose all control.

Micah covered his face with his hands then dragged them through his hair in an attempt to calm himself. She had no idea what was going on and she started to hope with everything in her that Eli would walk through the door soon.

"That was not meant to happen," he said under his breath but she still managed to hear him.

"What did you say?" Annie furrowed her brow in confusion. What did he know of what went on tonight? Micah looked over to her as if he only just realised she was there. He looked like a guilty man.

"Annie, you have to know you were not meant to be bitten. I sent him to bring you to me because Miss Danes was going to..." But she interrupted him before he could finish.

"You sent Baden?" She felt sick from what she was hearing. Confusion clouded his face then recognition replaced it.

"Baden bit you? He was with you tonight?" Micah asked her pointedly, he was testing to see if she would lie to him. He already knew Baden had been there though he hadn't known that Baden was the one that had bitten her. She started to put it together in her mind as she picked the clues from his reaction.

"You sent the stranger?" Annie was horrified from what she was finding out. Micah moved over to her and took her hands in his pleadingly. He bent lower so his face was in line with hers and looked at her until she turned to him.

"I sent him to bring you to me. When you had not arrived at the designated time I checked the house where you were meant to be then I came straight here," he explained desperately. She tried to pull her hands free but he had them tightly and she was stuck.

"Well, he became preoccupied with torturing me!" Annie said harshly still trying to regain her hands but failing.

"I am sorry, Annie. Please, I would never have sent him if I knew," Micah begged holding her hands tighter. Her face screwed up in pain as his grip became too tight. He didn't seem to take notice or he didn't care that he was hurting her, one or the other.

"Micah, release my hands," she asked, trying to hide the distress she was feeling.

"You need to come away with me, Annie. You are not safe here. Please, I can make everything better. Please," Micah beseeched adamantly as his grip tightened even more.

"Let go!" She screamed as the pain became too much. He let go unexpectedly and her hands jolted back towards her. She nursed them against her chest and took a step back until her legs hit the settee. Micah started pacing the room again. He laughed at some joke she was left out of.

"What, you would prefer Baden?" He practically spat his name at her. How did he even know Baden?

"Micah, I do not know..." But she was given no time to finish.

"I am a soul snatcher, Annie!" He yelled.

She felt gobsmacked by his confession. She looked at him, mouth agape from his words and he just stood there watching her. The strange thing was she didn't feel afraid. This was Micah, her Micah. Or at least he was...once.
CHAPTER 22

"How?" She asked breathlessly. It was the only word that would come out.

"I have been a soul snatcher for longer than you have been alive. I stumbled across you all those years ago. You were alone and homeless...so I..." he paused and just looked at her.

"You what?" She prompted.

"I could not leave you. Anything could have happened to you. So I went to Miss Danes...Martha," he said her name like it was a disease. "I offered to change her in return for a good life for you." He paused for a moment and looked at her standing there being beautiful without even trying. Of course he would have helped her, who wouldn't have?

"I took up residency in her house to ensure she upheld her part of the deal. Though that was broken the night she threw you out," he informed. Annie couldn't believe what she was hearing. All this time she had been surrounded by these...things and she never knew.

"So her and I are not distantly related at all?" Annie asked, realising it was all a lie. Micah just shook his head.

"She only said that so it would make your decision to stay easier," he answered quietly.

"And how did you come in here uninvited the first day you visited?" She referred to the day he proposed but she opted not to bring that part of the story up.

"I had been invited in here many years ago, no invitation necessary," he explained obscurely.

"Why did you help me at all?" Annie jumped back to his story suddenly. She remembered back to the day she had met him and how he had been so quick to help her. She felt like she had lost something special that she might never get back. She had lost the truth. Micah measured his next words carefully trying not to hurt her.

"I was out one night in a rundown town. In a small establishment I came across a drunken man who was telling a crowd of equally drunk men how he had left his family. This man was your father." Annie's face dropped when he said who it was. Micah waited for a moment before he continued. "After he left the venue that night I approached him and asked where he had left his daughter. I do not know why but the way he told his story made me need to find you, so I did," Micah admitted shyly. "I found you just after your mother had died."

Annie couldn't help the tears that fell down her face as she listened to his words. He had done all of that for her for no reason, he had sought her out and helped her.

Micah slowly walked over to her and stopped when he was close. It was only when he was near that she realised his eyes were glassy from his own tears. He let out a shuddering breath and his eyes fluttered for a moment as he tried to regain himself and blink away the tears. Ever so carefully he reached his hands out and touched her face, resting his hands on her cheeks. He leaned his forehead against hers like he always wanted to. He rested his face into hers a little more and just before his lips touched hers she pulled away.

"Micah, I know what you really are...what you do," she whispered. She was putting her life on the line by admitting it but it seemed her life was going to be lived out permanently on the line anyway. He pulled his face away slightly, a small crease forming on his brow from his confusion.

"You are a soul snatcher. You steal souls." She confessed her knowledge, hiding the hurt from her voice as she did so. It aggrieved her to say it but it was true.

All those years could have been a lie, just him trying to gain her soul. Though he knew she didn't love him and therefore could not take her soul. She thought of Baden and how easy it would have been for him to take it. Thinking of him brought back her earlier pain and it spurred her tears to return.

"Annie, I would never..." Micah began to say before he was interrupted.

"Micah, I believe our agreement was that I would not kill you so long as you do not bring harm to anyone or steal any souls?" Annie and Micah both turned their head towards the door to find Eli standing in the doorway of the library.

Though his outfit was formal with his heavy fitted coat, Eli casually leaned against the doorframe as if he was not concerned about anything. His actions did not match his attire as his concern did not match his attitude. Micah dropped his hands away from Annie and straightened to his full height. Annie had forgotten how tall he was.

"Then it is a good thing that I am not breaking our agreement." He spoke to Eli in a forced but courteous tone. Eli sauntered towards them looking around the room as if he were browsing the titles of the books. He stopped when he was a foot away from Micah. Annie hadn't seen him move but Micah now stood at least two steps away from her, to ensure she would not be in harm's way. How did these two even know each other?

"And how can I be sure that what you say is true?" Eli asked. He matched Micah's height easily.

"Eli, what is going on?" Annie interrupted their conversation. He kept his eyes on Micah as he responded to her.

"Annie, I have known Micah for a few years now and have kept a close eye on him. I have never caught him in the act of harming another so I have had no need to kill him. I approached him one day and accused him of what he was. He admitted it easily but explained he did not hurt others. Thus, we struck our deal," he explained as if he was talking about a business venture. She felt unnerved at how they stood there staring at each other.

"Eli, I have come to help Annie," Micah explained.

"No, you have come to use her by the looks of that mark on her neck," Eli disagreed. Annie stopped herself from touching the scar again. How on earth did he know it was there? He had barely looked at her. Micah smiled a little then started to laugh. It was in such contrast to the tense situation that it startled her.

"Maybe that question should be asked of Baden," Micah suggested. Eli's face had remained unchanged until he heard Baden's name. Still his reaction was minimal, his eyes only narrowed slightly before he quickly recovered his façade. Annie's body tensed at where this conversation was headed.

"I do not see any other in this room except for you," Eli said, ignoring Micah's accusation.

"That is only because the last time I saw Baden he had a new protuberance in the form of a dagger through his heart," Micah informed uncouthly. He was fed up with this whole conversation, he just needed to take Annie and get out.

She was so distracted that she missed Micah's slip in revealing that he had seen Baden at the house. Inadvertently, she had stepped closer as they were talking and now stood nearby. Neither of the men had noticed as they had not taken their eyes off the other, neither trusting their life in the presence of the other.

In an instant everything changed. Eli's hand twitched next to his side and Annie realised that he must have a dagger concealed in the sleeve of his jacket. During his moment of hesitation it gave Annie just enough time to react. She forgot about anything other than the fact that Eli was about to kill her best friend. She was about to lose someone who had been there for her and no matter what he was, he had cared for her when no one else would.

Without thought for herself she did the only thing that was in her power to do. She moved in front of Micah just a moment before Eli dropped the hidden dagger from his sleeve into his hand and thrust the dagger towards him. And she took his planned sentence from Eli.

One heartbeat.

Breathe.

Two heartbeats.

Breathe.

Three heartbeats.

Breathe.

The pain came on in a rush. It was more intense than Annie had expected. She did not feel the initial penetration but when she grabbed at the dagger that now sat through her left shoulder, it burned as if it was on fire. She felt the blood trickling down her body as it escaped its intended place in her veins. The pain seemed to plateau and it was the shock that scared her the most. Her body started to tremble from the unfamiliar situation it had encountered and she found she could not stand any longer. With no other thought than laying down, she dropped where she stood and lost everything to black.

Eli grabbed Annie before she hit the ground. He knelt and held her against him for a moment before he moved into action. Keeping hold of her he removed his coat and wrapped it around her limp body. Micah stepped towards her, arms outstretched to help.

"Get away!" Eli yelled as he picked her up and started walking out of the room. Before he made it to the door Micah had blocked his path and Eli had to use every ounce of his self-control to restrain himself. "I can put her down and I can deal with you now if you would like but that could mean she loses her life. No more life, no more soul," Eli threatened.

He had no intention of ever letting Micah get close enough to steal her but he used what he could to get her to safety now. Micah stood there in indecision. He looked to Annie for a moment before he looked back to Eli.

"She dies, you die," Micah promised, enmity drenching his voice. He disappeared, venturing far away from the manor and far away from the pain. He would not return until he was sure she was alive, he could not take it if she died.

Eli carried Annie as quickly and as carefully as he could to her room. Garrick saw them and immediately went to prepare all the things needed to assist Eli to help Annie. He hoped with everything in him that she would survive.

Eli made it into the room in record time and eased her onto her bed. He couldn't help the tears that spilled from his face onto hers as she lay there unconscious. Her colour was pale and she had started to perspire. He gently wiped the tears from her face and brushed her hair away from her neck and forehead.

"Please do not die on me, Annie," he whispered to her with an acute pain in his soul. Somehow if she didn't make it, it felt like it would be worse than anything else he had endured up to this day. "Please," he whispered to her.

Outside he stood amongst the trees, in the dark lonely night just for her. His aching chest hoping that she would make it. He listened to her unsteady, shallow breaths fading in and out. Her heart would flutter to a stop for the slightest moment and in that moment he thought he would die himself. Then all of a sudden it would stutter back to life and his soul would move within him from relief and joy that she was still alive.

After she had been tended to and her wounds were dressed as well as they could be, he heard Eli move a seat and place it next to her bed. Eli was ready to sit there as long as it would take until she was well again and so was he. He sat down silently and leaned against a tree, ready to just sit and wait. He sat looking up to her window where the light was dimmed to a soft glow, so she could rest but still be watched. He flicked the small dagger around in his hand, thinking of her. Though it had been used to hurt him, somehow it reminded him of her and became a comfort to him. He placed it in his breast pocket for safe keeping. He ignored the cold that nagged at his skin and started to sink in.

"Love you, Annie," Baden whispered to her through the night, knowing she would not hear it but hoping she would know it somehow.

Anguish and grief made a home around his heart as he feared he would not get another chance to say it whilst she was still alive. He let out a long breath and looked up to the stars through teary eyes. He thought if he could wish for one thing it would be that she would live and that she would be happy, whether that meant with or without him. It felt like he would give his own life in payment for that wish.

And for the first time in his existence, Baden loved outside of himself.
CHAPTER 23

A week passed and was filled with Annie coming in and out of consciousness. Eli would redress her wounds when it needed to be done and he cleaned her shoulder to make certain it would not become infected. To clean her wound he would ensure the only part of her skin showing was her shoulder during the process. He would never take advantage of her in any way and she felt safe with him. She ate what she could whenever she was awake but he was concerned that it wasn't enough.

The pain was more intense than Annie had expected. Even with forms of pain relief it still hurt because the dagger had made its way through part of her bone. Her heart was hurting also and the only way she escaped the pain of Baden was to focus on the pain in her shoulder. It wasn't the best deal she had ever struck with herself but at the moment that was all she had.

A different distraction she was starting to become weary of was Eli. Every time she woke he would apologise, every time she slept he would apologise, every time he dressed her wound he would apologise. It never ended. There didn't seem to be a moment where he was not apologising for what he had done, even though it had been her choice to move in the way. After a few warnings he reined in his apologies and turned his remorse into actions, trying to do more things to make it up to her. Giving up she let him continue with his process of grovelling and tried not to let it irritate her too often.

He had asked her about why she had left the house and she pieced together different truths from the night. She said an intruder came in and she had been bitten by a snatcher but she managed to dagger him and get on the horse to ride home. Eli deduced the snatcher had not bitten her with bane and was thankful for at least that but he still had no idea who it was that had attacked her. When he had gone back to the house to try and find the remains there were none. It was all very curious to him but there wasn't much he could do to try and find out more.

When a few more days had passed Annie finally felt well enough to sit up and lean against the headboard of the bed. Eli carefully pulled her up when she asked for help but even with his assistance she felt a little short of breath from the effort. The good thing about having Eli with her constantly was when the physical pain started to ease and her mind wandered to Baden, she could strike up a conversation that would cover her thoughts. It may not have taken away the sadness in her soul but it helped to distract her from the pain of it.

"Thank you, Eli," she said gratefully after she was settled against the headrest. He looked at her as if she just took a swing at him.

"I think it is the least I can do," he said disgusted in himself. Annie rolled her eyes and decided not to try and reassure him that she didn't blame him because every time she did he refused her and they would almost end up quarrelling.

"Please pass me the rug from the end of the bed," Annie asked stretching her arm out towards the blanket.

"Are you cold?" He asked as he handed it to her.

"Just a little." She pulled the rug as close as she could with one hand and Eli helped her with the rest. After she was settled he put his hand against her forehead.

"You feel warm," he said aloud though it sounded more like a thought. "I am staying home tonight," he declared as he started to gather some old, blood stained rags to take away.

"Where were you going?" She asked curiously.

"I had a..." He paused, not wanting to tell her he was meeting with some other trackers. "A...meeting that was arranged months ago but I will cancel," he explained, avoiding looking at her eyes.

"Eli, it will be a matter of hours before you return. I think Garrick can manage until then," she reasoned. When he continued to ignore her she reached out her hand and grabbed his. The slight movement sent a small pain through her shoulder but she did her best not to let it show. He looked down at her hand then back over to her.

"Annie, it is fine. I will stay here with you," he persisted. He tried to ignore the nervous feeling in his stomach that came from her touch but it became increasingly difficult.

"Eli, please. I will be fine. Do not stop everything on my account. You arranged this quite some time ago so go," she insisted and this time she was not taking no for an answer.

When he went to open his mouth to refuse her she gave him the sternest look she had in her repertoire. He tried to hold back his smile knowing that she was trying to look frightening but failing because she was too cute. He looked away and continued to clean when he couldn't manage to hide it. It was difficult to clean with one hand but he didn't want to take his hand away from hers.

"I will go but it will be short and I will leave as soon as it is finished," he proposed the terms of his surrender. She released his hand and smiled, happy that his life was not going to be interrupted because of her, for tonight at least.

Eli had come to say goodbye before he went out and gave Annie one instruction, she was to go to Garrick for anything and everything. She found that easy enough to agree to. When Eli had checked her dressing and was happy with what he saw he left. He hesitated all the way to the door and the entire carriage ride. At the meeting he found that he wished that he had stayed with her.

Annie was in bed, reading a book with the lamp turned high so she could see the words easily. She was starting to run a fever and the slow ache that was creeping through her body was becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. When she was about to get up and find Garrick there came a knock at her door.

"Come in," she called as loudly as she could as she sat her book down beside her. To her surprise Micah came through the door. "Oh, Micah," she said a little surprised. He smiled as he closed the door and she felt uneasy that she was so defenceless. He must have snuck past Garrick to get to her so Eli wouldn't be told of his visit.

"I have come to see how you are," he said as he took the chair that Eli used to constantly watch her from. She felt the fever setting in a little more and the chill was seeping to her bones.

"Sorry to ask but would you be able to close that window for me?" She requested as politely as she could. The cool night air was only adding to the ache.

Micah was up then back in a flash. The only reason why she knew he had moved was because the window was no longer open. It made her feel even more uneasy. From what Eli had taught her, snatchers usually only used their heightened abilities when they needed to. For instance; in defence or when they were stalking someone. It made her wonder why Micah had needlessly run so fast just then. The scary part was, he still felt like the same old Micah to her and she knew that he shouldn't.

"You seem well," he said happily as he inspected her shoulder from his seat. She smiled at him trying to disguise her discomfort.

"I am," she lied. Right now she felt anything but fine but she didn't want him to know that. He moved the chair closer to the bed and took her hand. The fever made it difficult to focus and she had to try harder.

"I need to say thank you, Annie," he said, emotion thick in his voice. This brought her out of her pain for a moment and she concentrated her attention on him. He looked to her with almost a longing in his eyes. "You saved my life. No one has ever touched my heart like you have and I know that you may not feel the same for me...but I will always love you."

The words came out as if they were lyrics to a beautiful song that was missing a tune. If there was a tune then it felt like it would be a solemn one because he was right, she never would love him like that.

"Micah, you would have done the same for me." She avoided having to reject him again. A little bit of the light left his eyes when she did not return his feelings, though he knew she wouldn't.

"I know your heart belonged to Baden," Micah said his name coldly. "And though he is gone, your heart is still with him but there are some things you must know about him."

Annie's heart started beating terribly fast. She wasn't sure if her palms were sweating because of the fever or because of her nerves. She knew that whatever she was about to hear was going to hurt, regardless of whether Baden was still alive or not. She looked at Micah waiting for words she knew would break her heart.

"I met Baden when he had first been turned," he started. Annie was surprised by this and it showed on her face. "I would venture with him in the night trying to show him a better way to live." She didn't know why but she was angry that he had known Baden before her. "But he was bent on creating havoc. He had been wronged by someone he thought he could trust and he gave up hope for the human race. He..." Micah paused, like he couldn't bring himself to say it.

"What?" Annie asked anxiously.

"I do not know if I should continue," he said looking away as if to contemplate what to say next.

"Please, I want to hear," she asked, feeling desperate to know. He looked back to her and saw that he should not have started in the first place but found it useless refusing now.

"He was easily angered. Any person that reminded him of the one who betrayed him, he killed. Any person that became a hindrance or irritated him enough, he killed." Each time Micah said the word killed felt like another dagger through her. "It was almost as if Baden received a sick pleasure from hurting them. He felt it was ridding the world of another useless human." Micah found it hard to recount the story. It was as if he were expurgating the account.

"Micah, what are you not saying?" She wondered how there could be more to it. He took a moment to decide on the right wording.

"Annie, I do not want to hurt you. I only say this because you need to know, so you can move on," he said with a hint of sorrow in his voice. She waited nervously for whatever it was that he was going to say. "He has stolen a soul before," Micah said and then there was silence.

The words took a moment to sink in but when they did they made her feel sick. The symptoms of the fever seemed to erupt within her and she wanted him to leave. Perspiration started to cover her body and the aches that were dull before were now sharp and noticeable, particularly the one around her heart.

"Well, he was a soul snatcher," Annie reasoned weakly, trying not to care but failing. She didn't realise she could have offended Micah. He wasn't offended at all though, only concerned for how she felt.

"I know you hurt for him but knowing that he never really loved you will make it easier for you to move forward," Micah opined and it almost sounded liked he got satisfaction from being able to bring Baden down. Hearing the words from someone else made them feel more real.

He never really loved you. Somehow it didn't make her angry or bitter, it just made her feel hollow and sad and so close to dishevelling that she desperately needed to be alone.

"Thank you for your visit, Micah but I am feeling rather drained. Would you mind if we cut our visit short?" Annie's voice was a little strained but she held herself together better than she thought she would. Leaning over, he took her hand and kissed it as if to apologise for being the bearer of bad news. Then he stood to leave.

"Do not fret, Annie. You will love again," he assured her. She half smiled at his attempt to comfort her and however realistic his words may have been they didn't stop the pain in her soul that threatened to consume her.

"Goodnight, Micah," she said. He knew he had hurt her but he only did it to help her move past loving a heartless snatcher.

When the door was closed after his exit tears loomed in Annie's eyes but she pushed them back. She refused to cry over someone that did not love her. No, she would not cry for someone who would not cry over her. Before she could defeat the internal battle raging inside her there was another knock at the door.

"Yes?" She asked brusquely. Eli came in with a ready smile that she was not in the mood for.

"How are you feeling?" He asked as he approached her. She ignored the fact that her skin was burning up but inside she felt ice cold to the bone. She overlooked the fact that she had a splitting headache and was struggling to breathe. Her heart hurt too much to notice any of that.

"Eli, I am sorry if I sound ungrateful or harsh in any way but I would very much appreciate having some time to myself." The words put together sounded like he had an option but it was obvious that he didn't. He spoke from where he stood across the room.

"Annie, you need to be watched," he argued.

"Please!" She almost yelled the word. She felt like she couldn't hold back the hurt that was barging against the unstable wall she had built to keep it all in.

Eli waited for a moment but saw the seriousness in her eyes. Without another word he left and shut the door behind him. She would usually feel uncomfortable with the fact that she just hurt someone's feelings but at the moment her empathy was clouded by her own sadness.

Still she did not cry. She laid down under the covers and fell into a fever filled sleep, one that would find her no rest from the tormenting pestilence of a broken heart.
CHAPTER 24

Baden quietly snuck into Annie's room that night. It was the first time since she had been hurt that she was left alone. He had no intention to wake her, just to see her would be enough. He closed the window silently so she wouldn't be chilled by the night air but he left the curtains open because he loved the way she looked with the night sky flooding in. The moon was full and cast a blue light that rested on the room. He stood by the bed watching her and he couldn't help but smile to himself as he did.

After a time he was about to leave, he had granted himself only a glance but after seeing her he found it hard to go. Giving in, he crept over to the seat near her bed and sat next to her. Being near her gave him a peace that he was only starting to realise came from loving someone. From loving Annie.

Before too long she started tossing and turning. She was restless from the fever but mostly from Micah's words. She felt herself going in and out of sleep, not really sure which moments were a dream and which were reality. Or were they all just nightmares?

Baden remained perfectly still so as not to disturb her any further. He had not planned to touch her but he heard her wound rip slightly from her movements. She sat up in pain, which caused her developing scar to rip further from her abrupt movement. Baden was at her side in an instant and held her gently by her arms to stop her from doing any more damage. Her mind was blurry and she found it hard to make sense of anything because of the fever.

"Eli?" She said through the night, her voice husky as if she had been crying. Baden waited a moment before he answered.

"You have hurt yourself," he whispered. He glanced around the room and found fresh dressings, cloths and a bowl of water on her bedside table.

"You sound just like him," she said hazily, struggling to flutter her eyes open. He quickly decided his course of action and went to work.

"Like who?" He asked as he sat behind her and carefully rested her against him. He moved her so her back was against his chest as he leaned against the headboard of the bed, with his legs either side of her. He would be able to easily reach the dressings and hold her so she could not move too much.

"You sound like Baden," she said painfully. He paused for a moment then looked down to her face. Her eyes were closed as she slumped against him in what seemed like defeat. He ever so carefully slipped her arm out of the sleeve of her nightgown and placed the extra material under her arm, so that only the skin of her shoulder was bare. He made sure she was covered by the blankets as much as she could be.

The vicious stab marks looked strange against her soft, delicate skin. He gently stroked the unmarked skin of her shoulder with his thumb because he couldn't help himself. He had been outside when he heard what went on in the library but there was nothing he could do to stop it. He pushed the memory out of his mind and reached for a cloth nearby. He dipped it in the water and slowly dabbed it against her skin. It was cold and he regretted that there was nothing that could be done about it. A single line of blood trailed down her shoulder to her chest and he carefully wiped it away.

Annie breathed deep from the shock of the cold against her chest and Baden waited a moment before he placed it directly on her wound again. When he put it against the swollen mess she gasped a little and fidgeted for a moment before settling. When she seemed calm he reached for another cloth to clean the back of her shoulder.

"It hurt less," she mumbled to him.

"What did?" He asked softly as he dabbed the exit point of the wound. She winced a little from the sting of the water but seemed to be accustomed to the chill.

"Being stabbed hurt less than him not loving me," she said breathlessly. The tears that she refused to cry before stubbornly broke through and silently trickled down her cheeks. Baden froze and peered down to her face. Her eyes were still closed but the tears ran down her neck and mixed with the new line of blood on her chest.

He quickly reached over and grabbed another cloth. He carefully wiped her face with more care than if he were holding a priceless gem. He used the tips of his fingers under her chin to lift it slightly so he could wipe her neck clean. Before he realised, his own tears had started and it all felt like a mess of blood, pain and tears.

"How do you know he does not love you?" He asked and it felt as if his heart was slowly tearing apart from knowing that she was so hurt. That she didn't know he loved her.

"He has stolen a soul before so why would I be different?" Her tears came in earnest now and she moved to try and rest more comfortably against Baden, who she drowsily thought was Eli.

But no matter how much Annie moved it did not change the sadness she felt. With all the care and gentleness within him, Baden pulled her a little closer and finished wiping her clean. He had to manage with hindered vision because of his own tears, which he was not used to. He carefully wrapped her shoulder and slipped her arm back into her dress. She moved onto her side that was unharmed and nestled into him.

"Annie," Baden whispered.

"Do you know what the worst part of it is?" Her voice was smaller than a whisper from her heartache but he could still hear her. His tears prohibited his response so he tenderly brushed her hair away from her face, waiting for her to speak. "I had never loved someone before him and I do not think I will love another." Her words squeezed around his heart in a painful way. He was elated that she felt that way about him but it hurt him to know that she thought he didn't love her.

"Annie," he whispered again but he didn't have a chance to say anything else.

"But even if he were alive he would only try to steal my soul. Even knowing that and though he is gone, I still love him. Why?" Her voice was thick with pain and her tears were seeping through his shirt. He silently cried along with her in the room caressed by the soft, blue glow of the moon. He took a shuddering breath in and composed himself enough to say a few small words.

"Annie, Baden loves you." He paused a moment before he went on. "You have become something that he can no longer live without. It breaks him to know that you hurt like this and he would give anything for you to have the joy you deserve," he said as he stroked her hair.

"He has killed. He hates...everything. Humans are nothing to him," she said fearfully. "What is he?" She asked. The fever made it easy to forget about the barriers she had built and distracted her enough so she did not realise she was talking to Baden.

And because of Annie he felt sorrow for the people he had killed, for the families he had torn apart and the lives he ruined. For the love that he had stolen without thought. He had never once questioned his actions and he had always walked away so easily but now he felt the guilt weigh him down as the one he loved questioned the goodness in him. And he felt ashamed.

"He is a man..." he whispered. He wished that the words were true but he knew they weren't because he was not a man, he was a monster. He swallowed back his remorse so he could speak. "...who stole so much from so many and now has the burden of that pain because he has learned how to love," he said through his tears. "And now he has to live, knowing that he has disappointed the only one he has ever loved," he finished quietly.

"I wish he were here. If feels like I want it so intensely that he might come back," she cried. "I did not mean to kill him." He pulled her closer against him as gently as he could and comforted her with his touch. "I know I should not say this but I would take the chance of losing my soul just to see him again. Just so I could know if he truly loved me," she confessed, keeping her eyes closed to avoid the throbbing in her head from becoming too much.

"Do not say that, Annie." He worried that she wanted to willingly risk her soul. She shouldn't want to at all, not for him or for anyone and it made him realise what he had to do. What he was about to say next was a painful truth that he would have to accept but because he loved her he would. "You keep your soul for someone who has earned it..." He swallowed hard against the tears. "...and Baden has not."

Though it hurt to do so, Annie leaned her head back so she could look into his face. He held his breath as she looked up at him but it was too dark for her to recognise who it was. The selfish part of him wanted her to realise it was him but she closed her eyes once again because it hurt too much to keep them open. The new, selfless part of him, the Annie part of him, was relieved when she closed her eyes again. He knew it was for the best that she thought he was gone forever.

His face twisted in pain as he held back the sob that tried to escape him. He knew this was goodbye. He had to let her go so she would want someone that couldn't hurt her. He held her feverishly warm cheek in his hand and placed a kiss on her forehead. His tears were a constant stream down his perfect face.

"Do not go," she said fearing that she was missing something. That she was losing something she didn't realise she had. He looked into her face and even though her eyes were closed and her face was pale from pain, she was still the most beautiful thing he had ever seen.

"I love you, Annie," he whispered then he kissed her lips with all the love in him. His kiss was gentle and sweet and he held back his passion, knowing that it would hurt her delicate, wounded frame.

Before he was ready he hesitantly broke the kiss, moved off the bed and laid Annie back down. When she was as comfortable as she could be, he stepped away from her and just watched her for the rest of the night.

"I Love you," Baden whispered one last time as the sun peeked over the trees that surrounded the manor and rested on her face as she slept.

Just one last look, then he was gone.
CHAPTER 25

One very cold and lonely night Micah walked through the trees towards Annie's room. When he had just reached the edge of the woods he stopped when he heard someone come out of hiding. Without turning around he knew it was Baden.

"Where do you intend on going?" Baden asked with anger in his voice. Micah turned around and faced him without saying a word. Baden folded his arms, leaned against a tree and just looked at him. He had no intention of letting Micah get near Annie.

"It does not concern you where I am headed." Micah said trying to scare him but Baden could sense he was hesitant. Micah may have been older and more practiced but Baden was stronger.

"I will say this only once and then I will do what is necessary," Baden warned, waiting until he felt that Micah was concentrating before he continued. "You will not be entering Annie's room tonight or any other time during your existence," he threatened.

Micah knew he had to leave. If it really came down to it he would lose. He clenched his jaw to try and contain his anger then started back in the direction he came from. Before he went too far he stopped when he was next to Baden. Micah turned to him but Baden didn't bother to look at him, he kept his eyes on Annie's room.

"You cannot watch her every moment, Baden. She is not yours to have." Micah tried to sting him with his words but they seemed to have no effect. He studied Baden for a moment, deciding on what would hurt him and he tested his idea. "Remember that she is the one who ran the dagger through you. She may think she wants you but she will find that she truly does not," Micah said with a satisfied smile. Baden's lip twitched slightly before he composed himself but Micah had still seen it. He hid his surprise. "You think she would ever want an abomination like you?" Micah asked to provoke him.

Instead of the anger he expected from Baden he almost saw defeat. He couldn't believe it, Baden actually loved her. Micah couldn't stop his laughter as he walked back into the night and disappeared.

Baden ignored his taunts, he didn't care what Micah thought or said. He already knew he would never be what Annie deserved. He thought of it every moment. What Micah wasn't accounting for was that Baden had been watching over Annie since he had first seen her and he would be watching her every day until she ceased to be. But that was a thought he tried to push away whenever it came to mind.

The only time Micah ever got close to Annie was when he would approach her in a public place. Baden decided not to intervene at these moments because he didn't want to reveal himself to her and Micah wouldn't do anything in a crowded area. Something Baden found comforting was that Eli was at the manor with her. He never thought he would be happy for the day Eli was there but somehow he was because it meant she was safer.

So Baden lived as a shadow in Annie's life and the saddest part was that she would never know the love he carried for her. Whenever he became tempted to reveal himself she would do the simplest things like; brush the hair away from her face or smile to herself for seemingly no reason, and he would remember why he was staying away. To protect her from him. It was torture for Baden to see her and not touch her and love her but he found this a fitting punishment for the things he had done to others. Though the more he saw her the more he mused over how much he could endure. He supposed there was only one way to find out.

So time passed.

Baden watched. Micah pursued. Eli taught and Annie lived on a teetering thread, all the while not knowing Baden's love.

Enough time passed for Annie to mend a fair amount, physically at least. Her shoulder still hurt occasionally when she moved the wrong way and a scar had made its home on both sides of her left shoulder. Other than that she felt almost normal...except for the big gaping hole Baden had left. It was like it had burned through her to know she would never see him again and that burn would never heal because there was nothing that could mend it. There was no one else who could repair it. Whenever that thought came to mind she pushed it away and masked it as best she could. If Eli ever noticed her consternation she would smile half-heartedly and concoct some lie that would placate his enquiries.

Annie had not recalled the night of her lament to Baden, who she had mistaken to be Eli and therefore didn't say anything to Eli about it. She had seen Micah occasionally but she found the relationship had changed. He was different or maybe she was different? Either way she didn't feel connected to him like she used to. He only seemed to appear when Eli was not present, which she deduced was no coincidence. Although he never came to her room as Baden had, it was as if something was keeping him away. Not that she wanted him in her room. The only one she wanted there was Baden and he was never going to be there again.

She had secretly decided within herself that it was reasonable for her to admit to herself that she truly loved Baden because he was not alive and she didn't have to warn herself of the danger of him. So every so often, when her resolve to move on would crumble, she would let out the tears that had collected in her heart and she would cry herself to sleep. She had no idea why she cared for him so, she had barely known Baden but it hurt her to know that she never would.

The nights that Annie cried herself to sleep Baden would hear because he was amongst the trees. It hurt him to sit back and let her pain grow. It made him question whether staying away was the best thing but soon enough he found many reasons against his doubts. So when he decided not to comfort her he would sit silently in the lonely night. Before too long his own tears would start and he would let them fall down his face without a sound. He did not even wipe them away, so they would fall onto his shirt and live there until they dried. How easy their existence was.

When Annie's tears pushed her into a deep, sorrowful sleep Baden would sneak up and just watch her. He would gently wipe her face clean of the tears and pull the blankets closer to her, in hopes it would be a comfort. His only pleasure in life was this stolen closeness of watching her as she slept. He would not move or blink for fear that he might miss a moment. He sat there as still as could be and memorised her heartbeat. He measured out her soft breaths and looked onto her face, wishing she could be his.

What would he do when she had another lying next to her, loving her, being with her? At first the thought made his anger almost uncontrollable and he imagined himself taking the life of that person and replacing them with himself. But when Annie stirred then settled, he regained calm and knew that it was meant to be that way. She was meant to have someone who had earned her. He would not let anyone come near her that was not everything she deserved and more. He vowed this to himself many times.

His feelings had been so conflicted since finding Annie. Before there was one thought and that was hatred. Hatred towards everyone and everything he found. Now his only thought was Annie and what a lovely thought that was. An even lovelier thought that he allowed himself to have for just a glimpse was, my Annie. What a life that would be.

Annie woke in her usual tone, heartbroken and longing. She seemed to be able to work around the burden of it now. She was glad that she had adapted because Eli might have started to notice if she hadn't. She walked downstairs after getting ready for the day to find Eli. As usual she found him in the library.

"Good morning," Eli greeted with a smile. Annie gave her standard smile, one that no longer reached her eyes, and walked over to him behind the desk. She stopped in front of the desk facing him. He held a letter in his hand but by the look on his face it was one that made him seem pleased. At least it wasn't one that would invoke her immediate banishment from the manor. She pushed the next thought out that was trying to make its way through, the thought of that night with Baden.

"You look quite interested in that correspondence," Annie said to draw his attention away from her. Eli looked at the letter then back to her with a smile.

"In fact, I am." He got up and walked around to stand near her, letter in hand. They had become comfortable around each other and trusted each other, so his closeness didn't bother her like it would if it were another man. It also didn't distract her like it would have if he were Baden. She quickly tried to push him out of her mind yet again.

"And why is that?" She asked, this time to distract herself.

"We have just been cordially invited to attend the biggest social event of the season. Dresses, dancing, dinner!" He proclaimed. He knew she wouldn't really be excited and her facial expression confirmed it. "I know you are not one for socialising..." He started his argument, gaining him an eye roll from her. "But..." He jumped in before she could refuse. "I think it would be lovely for us to go out. Enjoy ourselves. Forget about everything that has happened and just be normal."

His face was pleading. She was about to refuse but something stopped her, it was the word normal. She hadn't felt like that in so long and she wanted to so much.

"It sounds..." She paused.

"Yes..." he said hopefully.

"Wonderful." She gave in. He let out a sigh of relief and embraced her as they had become accustomed to doing. When they pulled away from each other he kept his hands on her waist.

"I am happy you said yes. You have not seemed yourself lately and I think this may cheer you," he said sounding concerned. Annie had thought she was doing a good job of hiding her hurt but apparently not. She gave her best smile to reassure him.

"We shall have a marvellous time together," she said as enthusiastically as she could.

"Good! Now I have a very important question for you," he said seriously. She felt a little unsure and just looked to him, waiting for him to finish. He smiled before he continued. "Do you know how to dance?" He asked.

It was so contrary to what she thought he was going to ask that she laughed. She only had a slight idea of how to dance but it looked like she was going to learn how, whether she liked it or not.
CHAPTER 26

Annie stood in Eli's arms in the library, one hand on his shoulder and one hand holding his other that was not holding her waist. The furniture had been pushed to the side like it was when they trained but this time it was for a vastly different reason. They were going to dance.

"What dance are we learning today?" Annie asked feeling a little excited from the fun of it. They had already gone through a few dances and she had done extremely well at picking them up.

"Well, the socialite who invited us is very controversial when it comes to her dinner parties," Eli explained. "She is known to have a number of dances ranging from folk dances, to chain dances to strict ballroom dances. She is wild and not one person knows what to expect, so we in the town who are frequently invited to her gatherings have learned most dances from many cultures and eras." He said it all with a smile on his face. She could tell he enjoyed the memories he had of other dances he had been to.

"How old is this 'socialite'?" She asked mimicking his word. If she was extravagant Annie assumed that she must be young.

"Miss Darla is in her forties," he answered, enjoying the extra time to hold onto Annie.

"Is she married?" She queried, surprised at his answer.

"She was married to a tracker. He...he was killed," he responded solemnly. Her mood dropped with his words.

"I am sorry to hear that," Annie said earnestly and paused for a moment. "How do you know her?" Why they were still holding onto each other whilst discussing this was beyond her but they remained together none the less. A soft look came across Eli's face before he answered.

"She was a friend to my parents. She has always been accepting of my life, even when society turns its back." He spoke fondly of Miss Darla.

"What do you mean?" Annie asked concerned. Eli hesitated before he answered, wishing he hadn't said anything at all. He chose his next words carefully.

"A woman living with a man, when they are not related or married, is not usually looked upon graciously. Let us begin," he said quickly to stop her from commenting. Eli held her tightly around the waist, pulling her close to him and was about to start the lesson but was stopped by her protest.

"Eli, wait," Annie demanded. He relaxed his body a little from his dancing stance as he found no use in trying to avoid the subject. "Have people been saying things?" She asked feeling terrible about the situation. Micah had mentioned something about rumours but surely they had stopped.

"Annie, it does not..." but he didn't get to finish.

"Eli," she said sternly. He just looked at her for a moment before he answered.

"People are not saying anything in regards to your actions, rather mine," he said obscurely. He tightened his grip again to instigate their lesson.

"What are they saying?" She started to feel even more awful.

"They are saying things about my integrity but it does not matter. They do not know me and I do not need them in my life," he tried to assure her. She couldn't believe it, because of her his reputation was now in tatters and he had been socially rejected.

"So they would be more kind if we were wed?" She asked. She was beginning to reason within herself that this might be an option. Baden was gone and would never come back, she did not love Micah and she did not know where she would go other than here with Eli.

He just looked at her in shock as they stood in silence measuring each other. Many moments passed between them with neither of them looking away. They were having their own silent conversations in their minds, too afraid to say anything before they were ready.

Eli's thoughts ran along the lines of; should he ask her to marry him? He wanted to be with her and he would love her forever but what of his life? She would be gone and he would be left without her. She could be hurt for being with him. Would it be best to keep it as it was so they couldn't get too close because they would both end up vulnerable?

Annie's thoughts ran along the lines of; should she marry him? Why would it be so bad? She was attracted to him, he was kind, thoughtful and caring. He loved her and wasn't afraid to show his feelings. Though she didn't love him now, that didn't mean she wouldn't later on.

When Eli started to come out of his internal musings he blinked a few times to get a bearing on his surroundings. He opened his mouth to say something but nothing came out so he closed it again. After another moment he opened his mouth and spoke.

"I think starting with the waltz would be best." His voice came out husky and he cleared his throat when he was finished. She felt a little relieved that they would not have to confront the situation just yet. She slowly nodded her head in agreement.

"Good choice," she said with a small smile. Her comment was referring more to the fact he had avoided the intense subject rather than the choice of dance.

"Now the waltz has three-four timing. There is no music so I will count it out as we go," he offered. "Miss Darla always has this one dance," he explained.

He pulled her close to him and their faces were practically touching. He swallowed hard from nerves at her closeness and looked at their hands clasping so he could concentrate. His brow furrowed slightly in distraction.

"It is a dance that requires the partners to remain close to each other. We will start off slow then quicken the pace once you progress," he advised before they began to dance.

Unbeknown to them, Garrick had approached the door and stopped when he heard them speaking. He had overheard their conversation, waiting anxiously to hear the result of Annie's insinuation. To his dismay nothing came of it and he almost kicked the door at Eli's foolishness. He left irritated, completely forgetting that he needed to speak with Eli.

Baden stood outside, close to the window of the library. He leaned his arm against the stone wall of the manor and rested his face into his hand trying to regain his composure. He had ventured forward when the lesson had started and quickly became panicked by their conversation. What would he have done if they agreed to be married?

Before he could answer himself he realised he was out in the open. He glanced to check that no one had seen him then went back to the cover of the trees.

He sat on the ground, leaning against a tree with his hand on his heart. He realised that he could not do it, he could not stand by whilst she fell in love with someone else. The question was, what was he going to do about it?
CHAPTER 27

The night of the dance came. Annie and Eli had not spoken to each other about the issue of being married but continued their own internal debate of the subject. What she didn't know was that Eli had purchased a ring.

Annie had felt as if she had learned every dance known to man before the night came and Eli was impressed that she had accomplished every dance he had shown her.

When it was time to leave for the event, he waited patiently at the bottom of the stairs for her in his suit. He hated dressing in the extravagant attire that was required at social events but he wore them to perfection. Garrick stood off to the side ready to take them to the party.

"Have you forgotten anything, Sir?" Garrick asked. Eli tugged at his high collar for a bit of relief.

"No, I have everything," he answered, distracted by his discomfort. With a subtle smirk on his face, Garrick presented Eli with the small, black box that held the ring.

"Are you sure you have everything, Sir?" Garrick questioned mockingly. Eli stopped what he was doing but kept his hand around his collar as he looked at the small box.

"I am not sure if tonight is the best night." Eli made the excuse nervously.

"It is," Garrick encouraged a little sternly.

Before Eli had a chance to refuse he heard Annie's bedroom door open. He grabbed the box in panic and shoved it into his pocket just before she reached the top of the staircase. He resumed his previous position and looked up to her. His eyes opened wide when he saw her standing in one of Antoinette's flattering creations.

The bust line was just the same as all other dresses of the fashion and fit nicely against Annie's body. Her sleeves were short to fit just past her shoulder and very slightly puffed. The colour was ivory and the dress was made from a lovely, soft silk.

The modest pattern was stitched in black and sat at the bottom of the skirt. It curved and swirled into lovely points all the way around. Small floral designs sporadically sprouted from the lines and made it look even more feminine. The rest of the material was plain but that made it even lovelier.

The skirt was longer at the back and the material fell agreeably against her. Her black gloves ran along her arms, almost far enough to reach her sleeves. The whole dress was covered in a light, golden veil and her black coat fit the length of her sleeves and the length of her dress. The only detail the coat had was that it was lined with a small frill at the edges.

The black was a striking contrast to the colour of the dress but it made it look even more incredible. Her neck line was plunging and her bust was perfectly creamy, milk. Her hair was gathered into soft tresses atop her head with a thin, golden cord wrapped twice around her head and was tied in a bow at the nape of her neck. She wore no jewellery, unlike every other woman that would be at the party, and the dress would have been considered plain amongst the other overdone gowns but Annie's beauty shone through and the dress was nothing compared to her breathtaking face. She was truly indescribable.

She slowly made her way down the stairs. Her shoes were simple slippers as she did not find boots comfortable. She had argued with Antoinette to wear them and she had only won because the dress covered them anyway.

Annie stopped when she was in front of Eli and took in his appearance. He looked neat, strong and very handsome.

"I would say something but I do not think I could produce any words that would be equivalent to how becoming you are," Eli said slightly short of breath. She smiled and straightened his collar for him.

"You look rather charming yourself," she complimented, trying to fend off her nerves.

"Shall we?" He asked holding out his arm for her to take. She rested her hand in the nook of his elbow and they made their way to the carriage.

By the time they arrived at Miss Darla's house the event was already in full swing. The manor was huge from the outside and the courtyard was filled with endless carriages and their drivers, who mostly kept out of sight. Eli helped Annie down from the carriage and they made their way, arm in arm, to the door where they were greeted in the doorway by their host.

"Eli!" Miss Darla said loudly over the orchestral music and came over to greet them. She was a rounder woman, her soft chocolate hair touched with grey throughout. She gave Eli a motherly hug and then turned her affections towards Annie. "You must be Annie," she proclaimed as she hugged her. "It is more than a pleasure to meet you." The foyer felt like it was filled with people and it was incredibly hot. Or was that Annie's nerves?

"As it is you," Annie responded truthfully, trying to forget her worry. Miss Darla looked at Annie for a moment before she turned back to Eli.

"There is someone here that may be of interest to you, Eli," Miss Darla said with a meaningful look in her eye. Annie looked between them to see if she could read what it was she was missing but failed. Eli's expression turned a little sour but he covered it quickly. He turned to Annie and smiled.

"Annie, feel free to make your way into the dining room. I will be there shortly," he said. Before she could say anything he was gone.

"Annie, come with me," Miss Darla offered as she took her arm and led her away from the cramped doorway. They moved into the extravagant dining room. It really was closer to a ballroom but a table lined one side and was covered with every type of food imaginable. It was out of the way of the main space, which seemed to have hundreds of people filling it.

The place was lit fiercely with a ridiculous amount of candles. Some were held by candelabras, others by tall, gothic stands and some candles were so huge they were tall enough to stand by themselves. The flattering light fell on the crowd in a soft glow as they mingled in their little huddles. The small orchestra was set in the corner of the room so the crowd would have space to dance when it came to that time of night.

"This is amazing," Annie whispered as she took it all in. Everyone was dressed in ridiculously over-styled dresses and suits but they all seemed rather proud of it. Miss Danes was wearing a modest, blue dress but it was still lovely and Annie guessed that it reflected the type of person that she was.

As they made their way through the crowd she received a few appreciative, sideways glances from the men and the woman openly judged her for it. Suddenly she remembered why she didn't enjoy socialising all that much.

"Do not worry about such people, they are just jealous of what you have that they do not!" Miss Darla said with a flick of her hand through the air after she noticed the attention Annie was receiving. "Now I do not like sitting down being stuck next to the same dreary person at a dinner table so I do not sit my guests. They eat from the table and then they move around. Simple," she explained as they came upon the table. Annie didn't feel hungry, she just felt out of place and nervous. Miss Darla went to say something but someone came rushing up to her through the crowd.

"Miss Darla," the person called to her as they approached. The young man looked like he was a little flustered. He must have been part of her hired help because he was dressed moderately compared to the others around them. "I am sorry to disturb you but there is a matter in the kitchen that needs your attention," he said breathlessly. After he finished he looked towards Annie for the first time and a blush formed on his cheeks. Miss Darla rolled her eyes.

"Fine, I will come," Miss Darla said to the young man. She looked to Annie before she left. "I am sorry for this interruption. I shall find you as soon as this matter is dealt with," she assured. Annie nodded and Miss Darla left, leaving her alone in the snake pit.

Annie inspected the food table and took a grape to eat, just for something to do. She folded her arms self-consciously and began to wish she hadn't come at all. Great, now what was she meant to do? When she started to look around for her escape route someone came and stood next to her. She quickly looked around to the person.

"Good evening there lovely," Micah greeted with a smile. For the first time in what felt like forever, she felt happy to see him. She smiled in relief.

"I am so glad there is someone here that I know," she said. Before he could respond the orchestra struck a note that was well received by the crowd. Everyone seemed to recognise it and the crowd dispersed and made way for the dancers that were forming on the floor.

"Would you care to dance, Miss Belle?" Micah asked with his hand extended. Her nerves became worse and she almost refused but then she remembered how much fun she had dancing with Eli.

"Why not?" She reasoned as she took Micah's hand. He swept her onto the dance floor and into the motions of the music. She instantly recognised the dance, it was a quick paced dance that required a fair amount of coordination and stamina and she rose to the challenge effortlessly.

It came to the time when they had to switch partners and Micah reluctantly let her go to a tall, young gentleman who was eager to take her. He held her a little too close and tried to talk with her but she just smiled and nodded, finding it hard to hear him over the music. As they swept across the floor she glanced over to the watching crowd and someone caught her attention but then they were gone in a flash. He had looked familiar but she hadn't had enough time to see him properly.

Suddenly they changed partners again and she tripped ever so slightly on her own feet. She didn't care though because she was too preoccupied with the person she was searching for. Her new partner was yet another young man, quite handsome really. He attempted to talk to her but she downright ignored him.

Annie frantically searched the crowd for the familiar man but it was hard because she was being moved all over the dance floor. When she started to lose hope she saw the top of the person's head in the far corner near the orchestra, close to the doorway that led to an unlit room. Annie assumed he was moving towards an exit and she begun to panic. Falling out of step with the music she tried to push onto her tip toes to see him. It looked like he was talking to someone.

Her dance partner was finding it difficult to maintain the pretence of the dance though he didn't mind too much, as long as he got to hold Annie. Before too long the music came to an end and so did the dancing. Everyone started clapping so she mindlessly did the same as she looked in the direction where the familiar man stood. She started to move towards him, ignoring the glances of the people she walked past. He began to move away so she picked up her pace. All of a sudden the crowd felt overwhelmingly thick and she was worried that she would lose him. When the stress to push past everyone started to mount the crowd suddenly parted and she saw the mysterious person she was searching for. She stopped breathing and completely froze as he turned to face her, like he had been expecting her.

Baden stood there amongst the crowd looking more beautiful than he ever had. He was dressed in a full suit and he looked utterly perfect. The crowd bustled around them in preparation for the next dance but Baden and Annie remained motionless. Baden had been trying to leave when someone he had known from years ago started to persistently talk to him. He had heard Annie coming towards him and he decided not to hide anymore. As he felt her soul so close to his he couldn't help but be grateful for giving up, just so he could soak her in. But now Annie knew he was alive. Part of him felt relief but mostly he felt dismay as now he had no idea what was going to come of it.

She blinked repeatedly, expecting him to disappear but he didn't. There he stood, alive. The orchestra struck up a song that Annie new was meant for an uncommonly slow dance and the dancers gathered themselves on the floor again. Baden slowly made his way over to her and stopped when he was close enough that he could embrace her if he wanted to. He let out a long breath before he spoke.

"Annie," he said her name tenderly. "Would you do me the honour of giving me this dance?" The words were humble and vulnerable. Her eyes were glassy from tears but she managed to hold them back. She had no hope of finding any words so she simply nodded.

Baden took her hand and led her onto the dance floor. She rested into his arms and they moved easily together with the music. It felt like a dream touching him, having him touch her.

"Baden I," she whispered but he stopped her.

"Let us just enjoy this one moment...where we can pretend complications do not exist," he said quietly.

And for that one song they held each other close and pretended that they were two people who had no other care in the world, other than the love caught between them. Baden held her closer than anyone else had and she felt safe with him. He felt like home.

Before enough time passed, the music ended and the crowd clapped softly in its enchanting wake. They held each other for a moment longer than the song allowed then reluctantly let each other go. Baden gently brushed a small tress away that had fallen onto her cheek. He heard Eli approaching and started nodding, knowing he had to leave.

"Until next time," he said then he disappeared into the crowd.

Before Annie even realised Eli was walking towards her she rushed after Baden. He had made his way outside and when she was past the crowd she ran through the doors into the cold night air. It was like waking up from a dream you didn't want to end. She stood peering across the empty courtyard feeling as if she had just lost everything. She heard footsteps and swiftly turned to whoever it was.

"Tonight has been eventful in a way that I had not anticipated," Eli said as he stood a few feet away from her.

Annie had no idea how she was going to explain anything but all she cared about now was that Baden was alive.
CHAPTER 28

The carriage ride home was excruciating. Annie and Eli had left immediately after Baden had gone and hadn't said a word to each other since. Their silence made the time slow to a deathly pace and neither had felt more uncomfortable in their lives.

They arrived home and were now headed to the library. Annie was becoming more and more uncomfortable with each step and she was completely unprepared for what she was going to say. She followed next to Eli until they arrived at the door of the room where he let her enter first.

She took a leather reading chair and he took one close by. After the leather had stopped squeaking when she was settled, they sat in awkward silence. Eli did not even look at her. When it felt like she was going to go insane from the suspense he finally spoke.

"I am sorry," he said. It took a moment for her to realise what he had said but when she did she looked at him quizzically.

"What?" She asked in confusion.

"For letting him get that close to you," he explained. What did he know of Baden and her relationship? What was he talking about?

"I...do not understand what you are saying," she said expecting more of an explanation. Eli became a little lost in the conversation himself.

"The last man you were dancing with tonight is a soul snatcher, his name is Baden." He was acting as if this would be new information.

It dawned on her that he didn't know that she knew Baden. Should she admit what was really going on or should she play dumb? Looking at Eli now helped her make up her mind. Play dumb, at least for the time being.

"How do you know?" She asked wondering what Baden's story was.

"It is complicated but he is one of the most dangerous soul snatchers ever to exist," he informed. Annie didn't like where this was going. She swallowed back her fear and asked her next question, though part of her wanted to stay ignorant.

"Why is he so dangerous?" She asked quietly, as if speaking too loudly would expose her.

Eli took a moment to think about what he should do, tell her everything or keep most of the story to himself? Looking at Annie now helped him make up his mind. Keep most of it from her.

"He was once a tracker," he said and Annie's expression was worth a thousand words. Her eyes went wide with shock.

"Tracker?" She repeated to clarify. Maybe she had heard him wrong? He nodded and decided to give her some more details.

"He was known in the tracking society and when he was turned it was a rather big event. There has only been one other case of a tracker turned before and it was not something any of us wanted repeating," he said.

"What other case?" She was still stunned from the revelation.

Eli stood and started moving around the room. At first he seemed aimless but he eventually went to his desk draw and retrieved a tanned, leather journal. He sat back in his seat and handed it across to Annie. She looked at it before she took it from him. Very carefully she untied the leather cord that clasped it together and opened the pages. He explained as she looked.

"I was not born when this happened so I only have the journal to reference. No one has spoken to the one surviving tracker that helped to contain the beast, "Eli said the word with bite. Annie looked up at him but he was looking around the room so she turned her attention back to the pages of the journal. "However, we do correspond with him."

"Is this journal his?" She asked.

"Yes, it is Timothy's. He is the tracker that helped to capture the first tracker-turned-snatcher and his journal has been passed to me to analyse," Eli confirmed. She was curious as to why Eli had been given something so important but she didn't have time to ask before he continued. "A few hundred years ago the tracker Stewart Mayclair was turned during a struggle with a snatcher. He lost and for a reason unbeknown to any of us, the snatcher turned him. It was not known that Stewart was turned until sometime after the transition as he maintained pretence as a tracker." Annie continued to flip through the pages as he spoke. The journal had sketches and musings along with entries.

"He was helping?" She asked as she turned the pages.

"He did help in tracking and killing other snatchers, yes," Eli answered. She looked up to him in question. He turned his gaze from the room and concentrated on her.

"What happened when he was discovered?" She had a feeling she was not going to like what he said next.

"When it was discovered they plotted to kill Stewart," he informed. The words were said easily, as if he were speaking of something other than murder.

"They what? Did they not take into consideration that he had been helping them?" Annie was appalled by this.

"He was a danger. He killed many," he reasoned.

"Was this before or after the trackers tried to kill him?" She didn't think anyone had a reason for murder, and she wasn't condoning what Stewart had done, but she also wasn't in agreement with what the trackers did either. Eli looked a little put off, it was clear he had never thought of the point before.

"I cannot say with certainty," he said almost apologetically. After he saw that Annie wasn't going to ask anything else he went on. "The first tracker that was sent to kill him never returned so two more were sent, then three. All died but one, who managed to return before he died. He told them that they had stabbed Stewart countless times but he would not die. The tracker died shortly after his recount as he was fatally wounded." Eli went quiet for a moment as if in remembrance of those now gone.

"What did they do?" Annie asked to urge him to continue.

"Finally, when the situation was almost out of control ten trackers were sent to kill him, Timothy was leading the group. They lured Stewart to a thick forest where a secluded structure was located. This was where the first soul snatcher was created. Remember the woman who sacrificed the innocent?" He reminded but she already remembered.

"Yes, I do," she said feeling nervous of where the story was headed.

"It is where she lived. Their plan was to get him inside and stab him there. They were not sure if this would work, as they were basing their plan on the vague information they had from Timothy, but they could not think of anything else. They fought him with all of their strength and he killed them off one by one. The battle went for hours. Eventually it came down to two trackers. One managed to push him into the house and stab him but it did not kill him. There Stewart removed the dagger, killed the tracker and went for Timothy standing outside the open door. However, when Stewart reached the portal he could not step out." Eli sounded surprised even though he was the one telling the story.

"What did Timothy do?" Annie asked feeling as if she were part of the story herself.

"He stayed near the house and monitored Stewart as best he could. Stewart tried to escape through every possible opening but to no avail. He was prohibited from exiting just as snatchers are prohibited from entering before they are invited in," Eli answered.

"But you said that none of the trackers have ever met Timothy. How do you know any of this has happened?" Annie thought it strange to take the word of someone they had never even met so seriously.

"He writes to us," Eli said, as if this would be enough. She looked at him, dumbfound that never meeting Timothy didn't even seem to bother him.

"Is Stewart still there?" Annie asked breathlessly. All of it was becoming too strange for her.

"Timothy is the only one who knows where the place is located. He returns every so often to see what has come of Stewart and he says that he lives." Eli sounded amazed.

"How is that possible?" Annie asked starting to realise there was so much more to Baden than she knew.

"We do not know. He does not look starved or dying. He just lives forever in that place, unable to escape." Still, Eli sounded astonished.

"So, what of Baden?" She asked trying to sound much less interested than she actually was.

"He has not been stabbed through before but we suspect that he is quite the same," Eli reasoned. Annie thought of when she stabbed Baden and realised what had happened. She thought of confessing but decided not to, Eli already assumed what he needed to know.

"Do you know Baden personally?" Annie asked, curious as to Eli's knowledge. Instead of answering he just looked at her for a moment or two. He seemed to be having an internal battle but she wasn't sure why.

"I did know him but he turned into a monster," he answered eventually. His tone was level but there was emotion in his eyes.

"How do you know he is a monster?" She couldn't help but ask, even though part of her was too fearful to know the answer.

"He has only been turned for a few years and he has killed more than any other snatcher we know of. Once I heard of a whole inn full of people he killed." Eli sounded disgusted.

"Are you sure he did that?" Annie hoped with everything in her that somehow he was mistaken.

"He made it quite clear it was him. He was gracious enough to send correspondence to keep us updated of his pillages." Eli looked repulsed to have to even say the words. Annie started to feel sick.

"How was he changed?" She asked, trying to block out the thoughts in her mind of Baden being a nightmare to others. Eli looked taken back by the question, like he wasn't sure what to say. "Eli?" Annie said, waiting for him to say something. He snapped out of his daze and focused on her again.

"He...uh," Eli stumbled over his words and cleared his throat. "He was on a routine scout for snatchers one night with his partner. They followed two people into the graveyard, a man and a woman. They thought only the man was a snatcher. The woman had disappeared by the time they caught up to them. They killed the snatcher easily and the woman came out from hiding. Baden got too close and she lunged at him, biting him before they even realised what she was." His recount sounded like a list rather than a story and he looked utterly detached from it.

"And...is there a trigger why he did the things he is known for?" Annie wondered. Surely there had to be a reason, not that it would really make it any better.

This was a moment that Eli could use to tell her the truth, a truth that he had kept to himself for so many years. A secret that had plagued him until he felt lost within himself. But as he looked into her eyes he couldn't come to terms with facing her reaction, so he let it go.

"No," he lied. The word was so final that it felt like a bucket of cold water had been thrown over her.

"I do not think I can listen to another word," she said as she closed the journal. She stood and handed it back to Eli. He stood with her and took the book from her.

"I know this is all quite overwhelming but you need to stay away from him. If he ever comes near you again or tries to do anything, you must tell me," he instructed. Annie simply nodded. For a reason she could not deduce she still kept her secret from him.

"Good night, Eli," she said avoiding having to answer him.

"Good night," he replied. She left and went to her room, passing Garrick on her way out.

"Goodnight, Miss Belle," Garrick said, moving out of her way as she came through the door.

"Goodnight, Garrick," she responded quickly then was on her way. She rushed to her room hoping she would be able to forget everything she heard tonight but knowing that she probably never would.

Garrick walked up to Eli who remained standing after Annie's exit.

"Would you like me to arrange other accommodation for Miss Belle, now that Baden has made an appearance?" Garrick asked.

"I do not think that is necessary. Baden does not know she lives here and he definitely will not be coming here any time soon. This is the last place he will look for her," Eli reasoned confidently. Garrick hoped that he was right.
CHAPTER 29

Annie went to her room and closed the door. It was as if she was running from everything she heard. She made her way through the dark room and lit the lamp on her bedside table. She turned to move to the fireplace to light a fire in hopes to ease the chill that had seeped inside. Before she made it very far she froze.

Baden was standing only a few feet away. He was still dressed in his formal attire as was she. He stood with his hands in his pockets, his head slightly bowed as if he were under submission. His posture made him look vulnerable and almost defenceless, maybe with a hint of regret.

Only moments passed but it felt like days standing there looking at him. He stood there as perfect as an oil painting, just watching at her. She played with the material of her skirt nervously. She could die at any moment and still her heart beat fast because of him, fast in the good way.

"I can feel your fear," he said breaking the silence. She tried to slow her heart but failed.

"How is that?" She had no idea how she pushed the words out.

"For one thing, your heart is beating faster than it usually does," he explained. He decided that being honest with her was the only way he was going to prove how he felt. He had always been a closed off person, especially in the last few years as he was hardened by his hatred and secluded by his own choices. But for her he would show himself.

"I think fear may only be part of the reason for the pace of my heart," she whispered but he still heard. Trying to act as casual as possible, she pulled her gloves off and threw them on the bed. He noticed the goose bumps on her skin.

"You are cold, you should move over to the fire," he suggested glancing back at the fireplace then looking back to her. She looked past him and noticed for the first time that it was lit. She looked back to him in question. Half a smile moved to his lips and he looked down as if he was embarrassed. "I thought you might be cold," he explained.

Annie blinked a few times as if this would help her to understand. She went to move towards the fire but hesitated because she would have to walk past him. He sensed what she was feeling and walked over to the fireplace to clear her path. He stepped off to one side of the fire, hands still in his pockets.

He looked over to her and casually leaned against the wall, looking beautifully otherworldly in the dim glow of the flames. Before she had decided whether or not she should, she walked over and stood on the opposite side of the fireplace, keeping her eyes on him the whole time. She watched him as he stood there, not because she was afraid but more so because she couldn't look away.

"You look breathtaking," he said softly. His voice matched the flames, they were warm and melted all over her skin. Her breathing fluttered a little and she tried to tame it as she was coming to realise that he noticed every little thing about her. She looked down to her dress as if to try and see what he was seeing. Before she could answer there was a knock at the door.

Annie quickly looked up at Baden and their eyes locked. There seemed to be two distinct questions in his eyes; how much do you care and how much do you trust me? By answering her visitor it meant that he might get caught and that she didn't want him around. If she didn't answer then it meant she would be left alone with him.

They both just stood there looking at each other, waiting to see what would happen. Though Baden still stood casually he looked tense.

"Annie," Eli called from behind the closed door. She steadied her breathing so as not to be heard. Suddenly she heard the doorknob turning and she yelled the only thing she could think that would stop him from coming in.

"I am getting changed," she said clearly and loudly. Eli quickly pulled the door closed.

"I apologise. When you did not answer I was coming in to ensure you were safe," he explained through the door.

"I am fine. I am off to bed, it has been a long day," she lied as she stared at Baden. He watched her intently as she spoke.

"I will speak with you tomorrow then," Eli called out.

"Thank you, have a pleasant sleep," Annie said to try and make sure he would leave.

"You also," he responded then there was silence. After a moment Baden spoke.

"Eli is gone," he assured her. Annie still had a little fear in her due to Baden. She had no idea what he was capable of. Maybe he was trying to steal her soul? All she knew was that he was doing a fine job of it. She looked off to the flames to try and give herself a moment to concentrate.

"How is it that you are able to read me so well?" She asked, thinking back to all the times he had done so. When he didn't answer straight away she looked over to him to find that he was just staring at her.

"When you are turned into a snatcher your human senses and abilities are magnified greatly but there are some who become even more developed." He seemed reluctant to go on but he could feel that she wanted him to. "Some who are changed, depending on the bane that changed them and how strong they were to begin with, get other senses also. They sometimes can sense someone's soul."

"What do you mean, sense?" Her voice was quiet as she tried to take it all in.

"It helps to determine what type of souls there are out there. We can also tell if someone is lying or hateful or...in love..." he explained. Great, well the cat was out of the bag in this instance.

"What is the purpose in having that sense?" She thought it was a rather intimate thing for deadly beings to have. He swallowed hard before he answered, like the next words were going to change everything.

"It helps for when they are trying to steal souls." He felt her soul churn in anguish at the thought and it made him feel despicable.

"So you 'read' me then?" She felt even more vulnerable than she did before.

"I have learned how to turn it off and can choose to...but I did not with you," he confessed. She wasn't sure if she was annoyed or complimented by that.

"Why not?" Her voice was even but he could feel that there was hope inside of her. He smiled to himself, as if it should be clear.

"With your soul I cannot only feel it but I can see it and taste it and even hear it sometimes...your soul is...beautiful. It is unlike any other soul I have ever found and it has become my escape." His words were said so lovingly that she felt tears sting the back of her eyes but she pushed them away immediately. She was not going to let him manipulate her with nice words.

There was silence for a time. She didn't know what to say to him and he could feel that she was refusing to believe him. Her struggle made him feel guilt because he was a burden to her. She stared into the fire trying not to let her soul trust him.

"I thought you were..." She said softly, opting not to say the word dead. That night in the rain had tormented her every night since it happened.

"Unfortunately I cannot die so easily," he said with sorrow in his voice. Though she was not looking at him she could feel his eyes on her. She didn't like his comment and couldn't look away any longer.

"Why were you laying on the ground looking lifeless? Why not just stand up if you were still alive?" She asked. She could have been spared the agony of losing him.

"When you stabbed me you only just missed my heart. Usually, even if it had gone through, the dagger would have no effect," he answered.

"Usually," she repeated, picking up on the word. He paused before he answered.

"Because of my feelings towards you it could have brought me to an end," he added almost reluctantly. He had never felt so vulnerable in his life. He was typically the one who had power and control over things and now he had none of that, all because of this one person.

"What feelings? What is the difference?" She asked, missing the point. He looked at her closely, gently.

"The one that a soul snatcher loves, regardless of the snatchers strength, has the ability to kill them," he said seriously.

Annie was stunned but tried to seem unfazed. Her heart beat fast and she tried to steady it but failed miserably. He could just be lying and she shouldn't believe him. His revelation was too much to take in at the moment, whether it was true or not, so she changed the subject.

"Eli told me what you were...you were a tracker." She said the words evenly. Baden couldn't tell how she felt about it because there were so many conflicting emotions playing around in her. He nodded and looked away from her because he was ashamed.

"What else did he tell you?" He asked knowing Eli would have left out one major detail.

"I have been told what you have done, to so many people." Again her tone was even. She was afraid and disgusted by his actions but she couldn't ignore how she felt for him. Somehow she still cared and it confused her. She felt like the common sense part of her was beating the illogical part of her over the head to try and stop the stupidity of it but it wasn't getting through. He nodded once, keeping his eyes on the flames.

"I have been a nightmare in the lives of countless people. I have killed the innocent, taken their lives because I was full of hate. I am a monster in the purest sense of the word." His voice was coated in honesty and filled with remorse. He knew what all of this meant, that she would not want him, but he did not want her to love him not knowing what he had done. That would not even be love.

"And now it pains you?" She surprised him by asking. He looked over to her to find her watching him closely. All he could do was nod as the guilt swam around in him. Though she was only human he felt as if she could read his soul, like no one else could. "Why?" She asked. He thought for a moment before he answered.

"For most of my life I was someone who did what they were told. I was a tracker so I did what I had to when in that role. When I was turned I took the role of a soul snatcher but I will not lie, it was my choice to kill. I hated everyone because someone I trusted had betrayed me. I foolishly took it out on others," Baden answered honestly.

"But what is the difference now?" Annie asked feeling she had not gained her answer. He pushed off the wall and stood straight. She took half a step back in reaction to his movement.

"You are the difference." The words were said so softly that she almost didn't hear them. She looked at him in shock. "I had not found value in anyone or anything and I did as I pleased, disposing of people like they were nothing. Even if there was good in anyone's soul, I could not look past their failings to see it. Soon enough I just stopped looking for the good altogether and I saw everyone as if they were rodents. But then I found you..." Baden paused for a moment just to look at her. "Your soul was laced with nothing but purity and after that, every soul I saw I couldn't help but look past their faults and see their value. I discovered that I was the one choosing not to see the goodness within others, though it was there. Then I realised what I had become and what I had done."

Annie was so stunned by his words that her mouth fell open. Baden took a small step forward and she remained where she was.

"I know you have your doubts. I know it seems that I may be doing all of this just to steal your soul and no matter how much I assure you, it does not mean anything. I am here to return the book you intended to read before I took it from you. After you have read what it has to say then you may decide what to believe," he offered. She glanced and saw the book laying on her pillow, she had missed it when she first came in. It was 'Methods of the Soul Snatcher'. She looked back to him.

"And what if I refused you, what would you do then?" She asked trying not to let her emotions carry her away.

"Then I will not bother your life any longer." Even though there was pain in his voice he masked most of it. She deserved to be able to decide without his emotions being a factor. He wanted her to choose what was best for her life.

"How is it that you have kissed me and I am still alive?" She asked him feeling like she was about to give in already.

"There are a few different possibilities and then there is the reason. I will tell you what it could have been and then I will tell you what it I think it was...if you would like," he offered.

"That sounds fair," she reasoned knowing that anything he said could either be a lie or bias.

"Option one: soul snatchers have the option whether or not to take a soul from someone who loves them, so I could have merely decided not to take it at that point or failed to," he explained.

"I see," she said processing that option.

"Option two: it could be that you did not love me." She highly doubted that was the case.

"Continue," she advised trying not to sound like she was skipping the option entirely, even though she was. Baden couldn't help the hope that rose within him at the prospect that she might love him.

"Option three: it could have been me setting you up to make you believe I would not steal your soul and use you for a time before I took it." He paused after the list of possibilities to give her some time to think about them.

"So that leaves what you believe the reason is." She was nervous about what his reason might be. He took an audible breath in and slightly tilted his head to one side as if the answer was ridiculously obvious.

"The reason I did not steal your soul is because I love you." It was the truest thing he had ever said. "I love you, Annie." He repeated himself to make sure she understood. He walked towards her and stopped when they were toe to toe. She looked up into his face and searched for any lies she might find there but she could not see any.

He placed his hands on either side of her face and just looked at her for a moment. He had to hold himself back from kissing her because she might be scared. She swallowed hard, preparing herself for the kiss she thought was to come.

"I will not kiss you tonight, even though I want to." He let out a breath as if to say, 'that was an understatement'. "I will kiss you when you have decided that you are not afraid of me."

And before she could say anything he leaned in and kissed her forehead. She reached up and clasped her hands around his wrists as he kissed her because she just had to touch him. He pulled back and looked down to her face, enjoying her touch.

"I will be back when you have finished the book," he said.

"How will you know when I am done?" She asked. She wished that he would stay but she knew this was the best way to sort through the mess.

"I will know and I will not be a moment longer," he promised.

"Then I shall see you when I am done," she said to reassure herself.

"Until next time," Baden whispered and with one last kiss on Annie's cheek he left. He had to before he was too tempted to kiss her lips.

Annie stood there a moment by the fire and let a little hope wash over her that he might actually love her. This brought a joy to her heart that lit up her soul.

"Until next time," she mimicked his words to the empty room.

Though Baden was already in the trees, where he would be until Annie finished the book, he heard her words and they made him smile. He heard her run to the bed, grab the book and settle into the mattress to start reading. She turned to the first page of the book where he had placed the bookmark. Now it was only a matter of time.
CHAPTER 30

When Annie had made it partway through the book, she was starting to wonder why Baden had wanted her to read it. So far all it did was explain the reasons why they stole souls and how they did it. She sat and read until she fell asleep in the early hours of the morning. She had been hoping to finish but her will power gave way when her body protested.

Annie woke the next morning to a knock at her door. She sat up startled from the noise and the book fell from its place against her chest, into her lap. She looked around the room expecting to be someplace else and it took a moment to take in her surroundings. To her disappointment she wasn't with Baden.

The person at the door knocked again.

"Come in," she called out. She placed her hands on the bed behind her and leaned back, waiting for the person to enter. She was still in her dress from the night before and her hair was tangled in a curly mess. She was surprised to see Micah come through the door.

"Micah, what are you doing here?" She asked, not realising her desire for him to leave was obvious in her voice. He closed the door and masked the disappointment that he felt from her objection to him. He looked to her with a ready smile.

"Eli has been called away to a trackers council and I thought I would entertain you in his absence," Micah declared. Annie couldn't help but feel put out. She wondered why Eli had not told her himself.

"Well," she said as she looked down to her book then around the room.

"Why have you not changed from last night?" Micah interrupted her thoughts. She looked back to him then down at her dress. She didn't know why but he seemed annoyed.

"I started reading then fell asleep without realising," she explained. Not that it was any of his business. Micah looked across to the open window then back to her as if it was an accusation in itself.

"I thought it may have been the result of a late night rendezvous." As he spoke one of his eyebrows lifted in an accusatory manner.

"Just what are you inferring, Micah?" She spoke more harshly than she expected to.

"Nothing, it just seems coincidental that Baden's miraculous appearance corresponds with the break in your usual habit of changing before bed." Annie was annoyed by Micah's intrusion on her personal life. They were not an item and they never would be, so why did he think he had the right to say anything?

"I think that it is really none of your business. I am sorry but I am busy today and will not be able to give you my company," she informed curtly, not giving him an opportunity to speak.

"Please, Annie," he said pleadingly as he stepped forward. He gave her a look that she had never been able to say no to in the past.

"Micah." Her tone sounded as if she was about to refuse him but he didn't give her the chance.

"Annie, I miss how it was before any of this happened. When it was just you and me and there was nothing and no one else in the way." He sounded sad and he looked almost as if he were in pain. She felt awful about how she had neglected their friendship, when he used to be someone she relied on and cared for deeply for so many years.

"I will change," she said, rolling her eyes and giving in. "Meet me downstairs in ten minutes."

With a triumphant smile Micah turned and left, closing the door behind him. He was down stairs before Annie had even stepped off the bed. He waited anxiously for her at the bottom of the staircase.

"If you leave with her from this house you will die," Baden threatened from behind him. His entry had been quieter than silence and he actually managed to surprise Micah. He turned to Baden with a challenging look. "Stay in this house with her and you will die also," Baden furthered his warning.

"What happened to the reformed Baden?" Micah asked condescendingly as he leaned against the balustrade.

"He does not care too kindly for the fiend that lurks only when Annie is alone," Baden answered barely containing his malice.

Something else that set Baden apart from other snatchers was that he could not only read human souls but he could also read snatcher's souls. He could sense that Micah had feelings for Annie but there was something that he was struggling to identify, something that was hidden deep inside that Micah didn't want exposed.

"Are Eli and Garrick away?" Micah asked innocently, knowing that Baden knew his act. "She is not yours Baden. She has decided to grant me the pleasure of her company so you have no right in the matter. I think it best if you leave," he advised. "Besides, I think you may want to focus your attention on what Eli is up to with the other trackers," he hinted. Baden didn't care about anything else except for Annie.

"Leave or die," Baden threatened, he wasn't backing down.

Micah's lips tightened and he was about to do something he would regret but he managed to restrain in his anger. Before he had time to answer, Annie opened her door and Baden left. She came down to find Micah in a more noticeably foul mood.

"I am sorry, Annie." He paused to try and calm himself some more. "But we will have to postpone our outing today." Her brow furrowed as she looked at him, waiting for further explanation. When he said nothing, frustration covered her face as she looked around the room in confusion before looking back to him.

"Then I shall see you some other time," she said exasperatedly as she lifted her hands away from her sides slightly then let them drop against her. She hadn't wanted to go with him in the first place and now, after disturbing her and practically demanding she came with him, he told her it was cancelled. She turned and went back up the stairs and closed her door a little more forcefully than she usually would.

Micah stood at the bottom of the stairs for a moment before he left. He was sick of Baden and his possessiveness of Annie. Something had to be done. He left the manor in a fury of dust and speed. Baden watched as Micah left then went back to the trees outside Annie's room, waiting for the moment when she finished the book.

Annie had changed into a light yellow, day dress so she would be comfortable whilst she read. And she read all day and into the night. She was approaching the last chapter and so far nothing had come up that she felt would be merit enough to change her mind, that's if she hadn't already decided. She turned to the next page and came to a chapter titled: The Soul Snatcher and Love. Her heart beat faster and she knew that this was the chapter that could change everything.

As she read it revealed a story about one soul snatcher that had left a journal that was found many years after his demise. It was a personal journal that had never been intended to be read but the trackers had come across it. It recounted his life as a snatcher and the countless times he had stolen a soul with ease. Then one day the journal entries had taken a different tone, one of love.

However, the snatcher would not mend his ways and he tried to steal the soul of the woman he had fallen in love with. He had stopped writing after an entry revealing his tortured confession of what he was going to do, for he could not tame his need. After that day another hand took the page, it was that of the woman he had loved. She recounted the night he had tried to steal her soul. It said when he had tried to steal it, to his surprise he could not do so. Instead his efforts robbed him of his own soul and he died because he had tried to steal the soul of the one he had loved.

After the recount of the journal entries the chapter went on to explain that a soul snatcher that had truly fallen in love, did not have the capability to steal the soul of the one they loved.

Annie stopped reading and sat on her bed in shock. She closed the book before she was finished and placed it in her lap to give herself a moment. In a few pages she would be done reading the book and Baden would be there. She had no idea where the encounter would take them and she wanted to give herself time to prepare for it.

As she sat there she wondered who had written the book. She picked it up and flicked around the first few pages to try and find out. As she did she came across a note that was written in the front. She had missed it at first because there had already been a book mark placed at the first page of writing which skipped the note. It read:

Dear Eli,

Enjoy your read.

Baden.

Annie's heart froze before it jumped into a sprint. Baden had written the note in the most elegant script she had ever seen and she had seen it somewhere before. Just as she realised the truth, she heard Eli and Garrick come in the door. She closed the book in anger and tried to control herself. She left the book in her room and went down to confront Eli. Luckily Garrick had already lit lamps throughout the house or she would have stumbled in her haste. When she found the front foyer empty she went to the library.

Without knocking she burst in to find him sitting behind his desk, Garrick nowhere to be seen. She slammed the door behind her which caused him to look up from whatever he had been looking at on his desk.

"Where have you been?" Annie asked in a blaze of fury, storming towards him. Even though she was not angry because of his absence she let her anger coat all of her words.

"I had a meeting I needed to attend. I left you a note, did you not find it?" Eli asked, standing and coming around the desk in response to her urgency. They both stopped walking when they were close to each other.

"No I did not. Is there anything else you would like to tell me that you have kept to yourself?" She asked as she stood in front of him, her arms folded and her head leaning to one side, waiting for his response. Her expression was barely controlled ire.

Eli looked at her in complete confusion, he had no idea why she was upset. He reached out to touch her arm and try to calm her but she pulled away. She was livid, how could he have not told her something this huge? His face looked pained that she had pulled away from him.

"Annie, what is the matter?" He asked, his voice covered in concern.

"Tell me, were you ever going to reveal that Baden is your brother?" Annie sneered. Eli took a step back from her, his face a mask of horror that she had found out the disgrace he had tried so hard to keep hidden.

Now he had no choice, he had to confess that Baden was his brother. The worst soul snatcher ever known to exist.
CHAPTER 31

"He was my brother," Eli said the words as if they tasted bad in his mouth. He turned away from her and went back to his desk, standing in front of his chair instead of sitting. He gripped the chair with both hands, trying to hold back the anger he felt. Annie stormed up to the other side of the desk, arms marching beside her. She was ready to confront him about what he was so obviously trying to avoid.

"He is still your brother whether you like it or not!" Her voice was louder than usual.

"No he is not! How did you find out anyway?" Eli's voice was cold and stern but he maintained his composure more than Annie managed to.

"I found the note from him at the front of the soul snatcher book and the script matched the writing on correspondence from your bother," she explained folding her arms again. "How can you disown him?"

"He has done things that make me wish he was never born." He sounded repulsed.

"I would wager everything I own that you and your group of trackers never gave him a chance," she yelled. She didn't care who heard. "I have been told many stories since knowing you that demonstrate to me that trackers do not give many chances in the way of soul snatchers," she raged. "And I know they do horrible things but have you ever thought if you gave them a chance they may not be the way they are? What of humans who murder? You are not killing them!"

She was in no way trying to give snatchers a safe passage to a killing spree, she was merely trying to make him see that there could be hope for some of them. Namely, his brother.

"Humans have police to patrol them and soul snatchers have trackers. They are all the same!" Eli yelled not caring who heard either. "My brother being turned has been the most painful thing I have ever been through, including the death of my parents. But at least I can remember them fondly and who they were remains unmarred. They would turn in their graves to know what their son had become. I wish I had the privilege of knowing Baden was dead!" Eli spat the words. They were so foul to Annie that she took a step back. She dropped her arms to her sides and let her disgust of his attitude show on her face.

"You loved him once and just because he now wears a different label you turn against him? He could have been different!" She tried to make him see through his stubbornness.

"He will never change!" He yelled.

"You will never change!" She screamed the words at him.

They stood in silence, both breathing a little heavier from the emotion and yelling. They looked at each other, neither one ready to give up their side.

"What if it were me?" She asked, her voice now a whisper from the pain. "What if I were the one who had been changed?"

"Then I would not have a choice." He said the words before he had thought about them.

Annie turned and ran out of the room and away from the person who she used to think was her friend. When she was at the bottom of the stairs she heard Eli call after her but she ran faster to her room. She ran inside and slammed her door shut, locking it with fervour. Eli came running up, grabbing the handle to try and open it. She stepped back as he struggled with the lock.

"Eli, leave me alone," she said through the door.

"Annie, please. I did not mean it," he pleaded.

She thought she might have heard tears in his voice but she did not care. She had no desire to make amends, at least not tonight. Silence suddenly filled the air. Both of them knew that he would be able to break the lock if he really tried but he didn't. He had already ruined everything. Annie was the only woman he had ever loved and now look what he had gone and done.

With his fingers weaved together, Eli stood with his hands holding the back of his head trying to figure out what he could do to change what had just happened. Seeing that there was nothing he could say to fix it he closed his eyes and realised he would have to give up on trying, for tonight at least. He dropped his hands to his sides feeling defeated and went to his room.

He closed the door and smashed the wall next to it with his fist. The gaping hole looked odd in the elegantly decorated room. He looked around in the shadow of the room, as if he would be able to see something that would console him. Everywhere he looked, all he saw were silhouettes of things that reminded him of his family now gone in one way or the other.

Exhausted and regretful Eli dropped onto his bed, kicked off his shoes, pulled off his coat and crawled under the cold covers. He closed his eyes and tried to push away what just happened but he found it impossible. He predicted a long, sleepless night.

Annie stood in her dark room in shock. She had never yelled at anyone before much less fought with them so fiercely. Her heart was racing and her hands shook from the adrenaline. Holding her hands against her chest, as if they would protect her from the pain of the fight, she made her way to her bedside table and relit the lamp that had gone out. Seeing the book on the bed she picked it up and started reading the rest of it frantically. Baden said he would be there the moment she finished the book and all she wanted to do was see him.

She sat and read faster than she ever had in her life and when she finished the last word she snapped the book closed and stood, holding the book high as if to declare her completion. Where the space at the end of her bed had been empty Baden now stood watching her. Wearing just his usual black pants and ivory slip shirt, he looked incredible as always.

Something on his face told Annie that he had heard every word of the fight and it made her heart break. She slowly placed the book on the bed and paused for a moment. Finding no hope in stalling she let her tears fall and she ran to him, wrapping her arms around his neck and crying against his shoulder.

"I am sorry, Baden," she said through the tears. He enclosed her in his arms and held her close. He had spent so many years fighting the pain of his brother's disownment and had avoided it with his anger but this time he let himself be hurt from it. He refused to cry though, he would not give Eli the satisfaction.

"Annie, I have always known the way Eli has felt towards me. Please, do not cry," Baden said trying to comfort her. She pulled her head back and looked at his face.

"It does not mean it is acceptable or does not hurt you," she said knowing that he had to be hurting. He couldn't help but love her even more. She was kind hearted and thoughtful and most of all selfless.

"I agree but there is nothing we can do for the time being," he reasoned, wanting to forget about it. She nodded knowing he was right. He looked over to the book then back to her.

"I have finished," she informed unnecessarily.

"So you have," he said. He was too fearful to ask what the outcome would be. For a moment they stood in silence, both a little afraid to say anything.

Finally, he spoke.

"Before you say anything I want you to know that no matter what may come, knowing you has changed who I am. I do not think I will ever be the same and if you ask me to leave and never come back, just know that I love you." He said it as calmly as he could though inside he felt as if he would die if he had to walk away from her.

The words squeezed around Annie's heart and though she had already made up her mind, his words helped to cement what she had decided. Instead of speaking she pushed up on her tiptoes and moved her lips closer to his. Baden's lips trembled a little in anticipation of kissing her. He swallowed back his nerves and took in a breath to prepare himself.

"Are you sure?" He whispered when her lips grazed against his. She froze and nodded, not wanting to interrupt the moment.

Before she continued towards the kiss he beat her to it, wrapping his lips around hers with gentle passion. She tightened her grip around his neck and he crept one of his hands along her back, up into her hair. He used the other to pull her against his body even more and he felt her warmth against him, it tingled through him.

The momentum of the kiss grew and became more intense by the second. Their breathing became heavy and stilted. She wanted him and he wanted her and they both new it. She started to pull them towards the bed and, though he would be able to physically restrain her, he moved with her eagerness. He could feel her soul trembling with desire and it fuelled his own.

Annie went to lie on the bed, hoping that Baden would move with her but he stopped them. Their kiss was paused but their lips remained together. He looked at her, not wanting her to make a choice she could never take back. She could see the question in his eyes and though she was thankful that he was being careful for her, it did not change her mind. She continued to pull them towards the bed.

After the slightest hesitation, seeing that her answer was yes for him, he went with her.

With his arms around her he gently lowered them onto the bed, being careful not to push all of his weight onto her. As they kissed she began to pull his shirt up and over his head and he moved in order to help her. It slipped off easily and she almost exploded from seeing his perfect, shirtless chest. He let his lips trail down her neck and move to her chest as he slipped his hands along her legs and started to pull the skirt of her dress up. She arched her back in pleasure and moved her legs so they were either side of him. She intertwined her fingers through his hair as his mouth moved lower on her chest. When his lips hadn't grazed low enough for her liking, and his hand had reached well up her thigh, he stopped suddenly.

"What is it?" Annie asked desperate to keep going. Baden twitched his head to one side then looked up to her in his frozen position.

"Damn," he whispered under his breath, his body tensing in frustration. He moved and kissed her quickly then pulled back much faster than he wanted to. "Until next time," he promised then he disappeared out the window, grabbing his shirt on his way out.

Before she had time to react she heard her door lock being opened with a key and Eli barged into her room. She barely stifled the scream that tried to jump out of her.

"What are you doing?" Annie yelled with anger in her voice from the disruption of the single greatest moment of her life. She rushed off the bed and stormed up to him. "How dare you come into my room without knocking!" She said shocked and angered.

"I cannot keep it like this. We must resolve our conflict," Eli demanded. In the back of his mind he noticed the open window and her flustered look. He didn't have much time to think about it before Annie pulled him away from the thought.

"Fine it is resolved, please leave." But they both knew she was not over it.

"I am sorry to come in like this but there was no other choice," Eli said not sounding sorry at all. She tried to grab the key he had used to open the door from his hand but he moved it away from her grasp.

"I can see how you had no other choice than to intrude upon my privacy," she jeered, grabbing at the key again to no avail.

"Annie, I tried to kill Baden." Eli stunned her into silence and she stood still just staring at him. "I was with him the night he was attacked, I waited for him to turn and I tried to kill him. I did it because I was meant to as a tracker. I knew how strong he already was, let alone how strong he would be after being turned and it was too much of a danger to leave him. I could not take the chance of leaving him alive in case he chose to embrace snatching. At the time I had not even heard the story of Stewart and I went there thinking that I was going to kill him." The confession tumbled out of his mouth quickly, as if the words were desperate to break free.

Annie took a step back from his words. Eli was the reason why Baden hated humanity. What kind of person betrays their brother in such a brutal way? She could barely bring herself to even look at Eli, she found it hard not to push him back out the door and never speak to him again. Somehow her loyalty for Baden had grown just as quickly as her love for him and she felt like defending him with every portion of her being. But she couldn't because Eli knew nothing about the two of them and she wanted to keep it that way.

"He and I were close...closer than any other brothers could be and we had always been taught to protect each other. My father said that I had to take are of Baden because he was younger than me," Eli said solemnly. "After our parents died all we had was each other...until he was turned. And because of what I did, Baden has hurt many people." Eli's guilt washed over his face.

"Why would telling me this make it better?" She asked him, not caring that her anger was obvious. As much as it annoyed her, she could see the sorrow in his eyes.

"I did not want to and every day since then I have blamed myself for what Baden has become. Every murder is another weight on my shoulders. It is entirely my fault," he confessed his personal torture. And as much as she wanted to stay mad at him she couldn't because she could see that he truly did regret what he had done. And because of her inimitable, forgiving soul she forgave once more.

"You should tell him, Eli," she encouraged. "You cannot take responsibility for the actions of others but you can change the actions that you regret in your own life." She realised that blaming Eli for Baden's actions was just an excuse because no matter what, Baden was the one who was responsible for himself.

"I know that but somehow it does not make it easier," he said sharing his feelings with her. Her anger slipped away and was replaced with compassion. Giving in, she embraced him forgivingly and he held onto her desperately, feeling comforted by her touch. "I do not want to lose you," he whispered.

"Do not fret, Eli. You have not been freed from me that easily," she assured him light-heartedly but she meant it in a different way than he did. She pulled away and he reluctantly let her go. "Now let us look into this tomorrow," she suggested. He nodded in agreement and held the key out for her.

"Sorry," he said trying to look innocent. She gave him a warning smile then took the key from him. "Goodnight, Annie."

"Goodnight," she said then he left. She closed the door and locked it.

After waiting for a moment to see if Baden would return she gave up and got dressed into her nightgown. She went to bed feeling disappointed, she wanted Baden to come back so they could finish where they left off. She lay there thinking about what he had looked like with his shirt off and how they had been so close.

When she was partly asleep Baden snuck back into her room and slipped in the bed beside her. His presence helped her sleep easily, the whole night through. Though he wanted so badly to be with Annie he refrained from starting what they hadn't finished. He could wait to make sure she was certain of her choice. He would wait because he loved her.
CHAPTER 32

Annie woke with Baden beside her. When she turned drowsily towards him and her eyes met his, he smiled and she in turn did the same. Pulling her closer to him he wrapped her up in his arms and she snuggled into him, resting her head on his chest.

"Good morning," he said softly, taking in the smell of her hair. She let out a contented sound on her breath.

"Good morning," she said in return. They laid there quietly for a time just enjoying being with each other. He sat there deliberating whether to confess something he had kept hidden for years. It was something trivial but he wanted her to know it.

"My name is Badenoch," he said abruptly, as if he needed to say it before he backed out. It took a few seconds for her to gather what he had said and realise he was telling her his full name.

"Badenoch." She looked up at him as she tested the name with a smile.

"I wanted you to know that." The look on his face was so sweet she almost cried. He looked like he wanted her to like it so much.

"But you prefer Baden?" She guessed and he felt warmed that she had realised. He nodded slowly with a smile that looked almost shy. She took her place on his chest with a smile and again they fell into a comfortable silence. He could feel the pleasure in her soul that he had told her.

"Can you tell me?" Annie asked softly after a while. Baden paused trying to think of what she might want to know.

"What would you like me to tell you?" He asked playing with a curl of her hair. She swallowed her nerves before she spoke.

"Tell me about your life as a soul snatcher," she said. She kept her head on his chest and decided not to look at him, she thought it might be easier for him that way.

Baden's body tensed around her and she half regretted asking but part of her needed to know. He almost refused her request but he knew he had to tell her. She had already heard some things and now it was time for him to tell her the truth. After she knew everything she might turn him away but there was no use in living a lie.

"I..." he started to say but then she interrupted him.

"You do not need to tell me," she offered him an out. It didn't really matter who he had been, it only mattered who he was now.

"I will tell you," he said but then he remained silent. Annie wasn't sure if he was going to say anything but she thought it best not to push him. They sat in silence for a while whilst he gathered his thoughts.

"After I had been turned I left this town. I promised myself I would never come back. Eli had come to kill me as I knew he would, though at the time neither of us knew that was impossible." His voice sounded thick with emotion but he maintained his composure. Baden had found out about Stewart's story after he was turned. It seemed that the trackers were selective in what stories they divulged to each other. "So I left and discovered what I was capable of in my new form. I did not expect it to be much different from being a tracker but it was. Trackers are fast and strong but their senses are only slightly heightened compared to humans. My eyesight was remarkable, I was able to see through the night as if it were day. All of my senses were intensified. I could run faster than any other snatcher I knew and my strength far outweighed every other," he explained.

She played with the front of his shirt and he smiled at her delicate way. He had to push away the selfish desire to edit his story. He wanted to make it sound better than it really was but that wouldn't be fair.

"Feel free to ask questions," he encouraged before he continued. "I found that my abilities were phenomenal. Later I heard about Stewart and gained more information regarding my own traits from the story." He knew that Annie knew the legend. She couldn't help but remember the detail that Baden couldn't be killed which made her think of the night she thought she had killed him.

"Baden," Annie interjected. He paused and looked down to her and she looked up at him. "I need you to know that the night in the rain when I..." She couldn't bring herself to say it. She couldn't believe she had stabbed him. Knowing what she wanted to say, he pulled her a little closer and comforted her.

"Annie, you have no need to apologise. You did exactly as you were meant to do." He was horrified that she felt bad for what she did.

"I did not know it was you. I just felt a hand grab me and it was frightening and confusing and I had no idea what was going to happen," she rambled her words before they could spill into a teary mess.

Seeing that she needed to be rescued, he leaned down and kissed her. Her words were cut off but she didn't care. After he broke the kiss she looked up at him a little dazed.

"Annie, please. Do not apologise for doing the only thing you could do to protect yourself," he insisted.

"Can you just know that I did not intend to hurt you?" She almost pleaded.

He looked into her sorry eyes and felt guilty. He was the terror to so many lives and here he was holding the only thing that ever meant anything to him, while others would never have their loved ones again. His conviction to leave flared in his soul and he almost left, with no intention to return, but then if he left would it hurt her too much? He was stuck between what he wanted to do and what he thought he deserved. He deserved to leave and live forever with the pain of losing Annie but she did not deserve the pain it would cause her. How she cared for him astounded him but he knew it would hurt her if he left, even if it was for her own good.

Maybe in time she would ask him to leave, maybe he should make her want him to leave? But after so many lives hurt he did not think he could hold the weight of another hurting soul on his shoulders, especially the heavy burden of pain from the one he loved. The selfishness of not wanting to carry more guilt was overridden with the unfailing desire to ensure Annie never had to live through any more hurt than she already had.

"I know," he acknowledged her apology, keeping his internal war easily masked by his love for her. She rested her head back on his chest and looked away again to allow him to continue his story.

"So knowing what I knew and feeling what I felt, I went out and used my abilities against everyone. I was unstoppable and I knew I could do anything I wanted. For a time I simply tormented humans, slowly making them feel as if they were going insane. But the more I let my hatred fester, and the more I focused on the despicableness of man, I soon started taking the lives of others. When I looked at each soul I ignored any goodness there was and focused on their downfalls. Soon all I could see was the corrupt parts of them and it reminded me of Eli." He paused for a time as he thought about what really drove his loathing. "I think what I truly hated was myself." It was the first time he had ever confessed the thought to anyone and it made him feel exposed. "Eli had come to kill a monster before he knew I was one and I hated him for it...but I turned into what he expected. I found myself to be the most despicable of all but I could not die...when I saw another soul with any faults I killed them because I could not rid the world of me. Even when those faults were merely human nature, with nothing sinister behind them." Annie remained quiet through his confession, she had wanted to know but it was surreal listening to his story. "My self-loathing was soon covered by focusing on the depraved qualities of others and I found it easy to judge them for things I was guilty of. But I did not kill to try and rid the world of evil, I killed because I hated...everyone and everything."

Annie flinched from his words and he felt it but he knew he had to be honest, however much his instinct urged him to deceive.

"How many?" She asked trying to hide the fear in her voice. She didn't think Baden would hurt her but then again she hadn't really known him for long. He swallowed back the fear of telling her and forced himself to speak.

"I stopped counting at eighty," he said and the room was filled with a silence so deathly it felt as if the toll would increase right then. With heavy arms Annie pushed herself up on his chest and leaned on him. She looked right into his face and searched it for any sign of the creature he once was.

"What time frame was this attained in?" She asked seemingly emotionlessly, she was shocked numb. If there was ever a time that Baden wanted to force someone to see his side it was right now but something inside of him would not allow him to.

"Three years," he said, his voice coming out as a whisper. He lay there under Annie's glare feeling as if it would crush him into nothing.

"How many more do you think there were?" She asked breathlessly, not realising that the horror was obvious in her voice. Her face had become pale and there was not a hint of expression there.

"Maybe another fifty...possibly more." The words came out hoarse.

Somehow her face dropped even more and it looked as if she was about to pass out. For a moment she felt utterly gutted. Over a hundred people, he had killed more than a hundred people. She had been warned about what he was but it didn't stop the shock. Try as he might, his eyes filled with tears as the fear of losing her, along with the disgust he saw on her face, covered him. He tried to blink them away but failed so he turned his head to hide his face.

This was the moment she had to either choose Baden or walk away. She had to decide whether she could be with someone who had done the things he had done. Could she look at him every day knowing what he was?

But she could see he wasn't that anymore, he was different. Even if no one else could see the goodness in him, she could. He had made catastrophic mistakes and hurt many people, and she wasn't excusing him for that, but who can tell the heart how to feel? Should she look at him for who he had been in the past or who he was now?

And as crazy as it might seem, she knew that she wanted him. If she was going to be with him then there was no going back. She would support him and trust him and most of all, believe the best in him. She wanted to bring out who he truly was because she knew he was good. Why she had lost her heart so easily to him was beyond her but now that she had, she was willing to give everything she was to him.

She touched his cheek gently and tried to softly turn his face back to her but he resisted. Instead she leaned against him and nestled her face into his. When he felt her skin against his he turned from the surprise of it and looked at her. She kept her hand against his cheek and watched him, their faces close enough to kiss. And to his surprise he saw love there.

"Annie, please. Do not forgive me so easily," he said trying to convince her that he was no good for her. He saw the unconditional love she had in her soul and it hurt him to see it. He had never seen a soul that could love beyond reason, as hers did, and when he had seen her for the first time it caused his hate to stumble and fall away. It exposed what he was to his own eyes.

"Baden, you do not tell me what to do," she said sternly. "You are not the same."

"I have gone too far to be forgiven," he argued.

"That is only your opinion," she said fiercely. He stopped any rebuttal he had planned and just stared at her. "You are different and though the mistakes of the past cannot be changed, your choices now can change your future," she said with obvious faith in him.

Lifting his hand very slowly Baden placed it against hers on his cheek and took it in his grasp. He looked at it closely as if for inspection instead of looking at her. He couldn't face her, he knew he didn't deserve her love or forgiveness and he was avoiding having to accept it.

"I love you," she said.

Baden darted his eyes towards her in spite of his efforts. He was sure of the words she had said but he was unsure of how she laid there looking at him with any measure of affection, let alone love.

The tears that had been welling spilled onto his face and she used her hand in his to wipe them away as best she could. His tears ran onto both of their hands as the surprise induced silence drew out longer. After blinking away the tears, he gave up trying to understand her and how she was the way she was. Leaning down he kissed her, letting his gratefulness and care spill into her and before it was enough she pulled away and smiled. She wanted to see his face.

"Why are you smiling?" He asked curiously, his tears starting to dry.

"Because of you," she answered. Somehow she had become the strong, sure one and he was left vulnerable and under her influence.

"I am sorry," he said and she knew he was talking about his past actions. She just nodded in understanding. "I love you," he said and it brought another smile to her face but again she just nodded.

"Tell me more," she asked feeling like there was nothing else he could say that would turn her away. Before he could say anything she remembered what Micah had told her about Baden. Looking at their clasping hands she asked the only other question that might change everything. "Micah told me you have stolen a soul before."

The small amount of peace that had started to grow in his soul was soon snuffed out with the realisation that he was going to have to tell her about that. Something he had tried so hard to forget because even when he was at his worst he thought it was one of the most disgraceful things he had ever done. Somehow he knew this would be the thing that made the difference and he hated Micah with a passion. But most of all he hated himself.

"I have stolen...one." He paused then found no use in drawing it out. "She was seventeen and flighty. She was a little plain compared to most and she knew it so it was easy to make her fall in love with me and with the first kiss...it was over," he said watching Annie's face. "I have never done it before or after that." She was still looking away from him but she knew he was watching her, reading her.

He didn't tell her how horrible it was to steal a soul. After you kill someone the sound of the soul rings out and then there is nothing. When you steal their soul, though the person's body is left lifeless instantly, their soul lingers inside of you. It is a constant echo within you. It knows what you have done, that you have taken what was not yours and it tears away at your own soul. It fills you with an everlasting burden of remorse for what you have taken and it becomes a burden, heavier than guilt. Their soul is a constant torment that gnaws at you and reduces you to a hollow shell for as long as it remains within you.

"Why did you do it? You do not need anything to live," she asked as evenly as she could.

"I wanted to see if I could," he answered, disgusted with himself. "I tried to return it to her but it did nothing but leave me and she still died." He told her, not because he wanted to sound more humane but because he had truly regretted it and had never confessed to anyone how it pained him. He didn't know how anyone could stand the feeling of someone else's soul burdening their own inside of them. Not even he could take it and he was deemed the worst of the worst.

Annie remembered from the book she had read, that a snatcher had the choice to expel a soul from them once it was taken but it was not known if they could return it. I guess now they knew.

"Have you ever...been...intimate with...anyone?" She let the sentence trail off. She supposed after everything it wasn't the worst thing he could have done but she still wanted to know.

"I could not look at any human without being filled with hate. They all reminded me of vermin and I did all I could to keep them away from me," he said. She looked at him to see the honesty on his face. A simple no would have sufficed as the answer but despite the detail, she felt relieved. Silly really, considering the circumstance.

When he was young, his mother had taught him to be careful who he chose as he had the responsibility as a tracker to find a suitable companion to have children with. When he was turned it didn't matter anymore but choosing to abstain made him feel as if he wasn't as bad as he could be, even though it seemed small in comparison to what he had done. He had been more preoccupied with revenge anyway, compared to anything else. Mankind was despicable to him and his hatred towards people filled any space for urges. After seeing their filthy soul the thought of touching one in such a way had made him sick to his stomach.

Baden wanted to ask her if she had but he felt it would be an insult to ask someone as lovely as Annie.

"Well..." she said sheepishly. "I have not," she confessed as if she had been reading his thoughts. The tension between them changed from cautious to desire and it was hard to practice self-control but Annie wanted to know more. She needed to before she could give that to him. So before the situation got out of hand, like it had last night, she spoke. "Why did you come back here?"

"I came here to confront Eli. I had been taunting him with correspondence for years and thought it was time to deal with the situation," he said with a little angst in his voice.

"What happened?" She tried to hide her worry of his reason for returning but he felt it.

"When I first arrived I was walking into town through one of the back fields when I sensed something peculiar. I followed the scent because it was unlike anything else I had ever felt and I was not entirely sure what it was. It consumed all of my senses and I thought it would drive me insane if I did not find the source. It turned out to be your soul drifting along the wind to me, in all its loveliness. I found you speaking with Eli at the markets but you became a little distracting and I was soon side tracked from my intent." A small smile came across his face at his understatement.

For a moment she was left without words, she could barely even breathe! No one had ever described her in such a way and it made her heart do things it never had before. If she could have formed words she would have tried to express how she felt about him but she was momentarily mute. In the silence she remembered back to when he said he found her in the graveyard on his way to leave town.

"Then you ran away from me?" She asked finally finding her words, trying to make sense of it. If it was her in his situation she would have run straight to someone who made her feel like that. He laughed a little at her understandable confusion.

"When I saw you it felt like I was turned inside out," he explained. "I had come to kill my brother but then I found you. As hard as I looked I could not see anything but beauty within you and I started to question what I had done to others. I could not take the confrontation within myself and so...yes, I ran away." His face turned solemn unexpectedly. "I was quite a way out of town when I heard you in the cemetery. As soon as I realised there was a snatcher there I ran back as fast as I could." The fear of the moment still plagued him as he thought back. His words made her think of the snatcher that tried to kill her.

"What did you do to the snatcher that attacked me?" She asked finding it hard to remember anything about the night other than Baden.

"I killed him, he was about to kill you," he reasoned thinking this was obvious and justifiable.

"So you stabbed him in the cemetery?" She clarified.

"No, I killed him," he said. She felt more confused than before. Reading the look on her face he answered her unspoken question. "I am assuming that Eli did not tell you that a tracker-turned-snatcher does not need any utensil to take the life of another snatcher...or anyone for that matter?"

"No, he seems to have missed a few details in some of his stories," she said a little disgruntled. What else had Eli been keeping from her? She thought of Micah who had revealed some of the details about Baden to her. "Tell me, how do you know Micah?" Baden's face dropped at his name and he had to contain his anger.

"I had spent some time with him for a small period but it ended on unpleasant terms," Baden explained vaguely. He had never liked Micah in the slightest. Micah had always posed as if he was trying to help Baden but it was obvious he had some ulterior motive behind it, he just couldn't figure out what it was.

"He said he would see you during the night," she prompted him to continue.

"Yes, I refused to come back to town so he ventured to me. On our first encounter I had met him randomly but somehow I think he sought me out," Baden mused aloud.

Annie began to think of Baden's life and it made her wonder more about the story of how he had been created. Before she could ask about it a look of frustration came over his face.

"What is it?" She asked concerned.

"Eli is coming," he said with disdain. He saw the disappointment in Annie's eyes and felt comforted that she felt the same. "I will return tonight," he promised with a kiss to her forehead.

"Where will you go?" She wondered as he stood to leave. Keeping hold of her hand he carefully pulled her off the bed with him.

"Where I have been since knowing of you." He walked her over to the window and pointed to the cluster of trees below her room.

She smiled knowing that he would be so close. Suddenly she realised that he probably had heard everything that went on in the house, including her and Eli's close friendship. She looked beside her to him and he gave a knowing smile, trying to hide his unease at Eli and Annie's closeness. Before another word was said Eli knocked at the door.

"Coming," she called as she kept her eyes on Baden. He bent down and whispered in her ear.

"Until next time." He brushed his lips against hers then he was gone. She touched her lips softly where his had been and looked down to the trees to try and spot him. She had completely forgotten that Eli was waiting for her, so when he knocked again she jumped out of her revelry and ran to answer the door.

She opened it to find a stern looking Eli standing there. Did he know about her and Baden? It looked like she was about to find out.
CHAPTER 33

"Eli," Annie said breathlessly. He stood there with his hands clasped behind his back in a formal manner. He kept his face even but it looked as if he was trying to hold back anger.

"Annie, sorry to disturb you but I have a guest arriving shortly and I would prefer if you were away from the manor for the meeting." He spoke as if he was talking to someone he felt uncomfortable with.

"Where will I go?" She asked feeling out of place and awkward. She wondered who might be coming but she knew better than to ask.

"I have arranged for a carriage to take you in town for a few hours. It will leave in thirty minutes." Eli abruptly walked away without saying anything else and Annie was left dumbfound by what just happened.

She stepped slightly out of the room and watched him move away. Before she had time to call to him he was out of sight. She debated whether she should go after him but if there was something he didn't want to talk about then there was no use in pushing him.

Instead, Annie got dressed for her trip in town. She wore a light day dress, for the day was warm and welcoming. The colour was a soft mauve and it looked lovely against her fair skin. She braided her hair then twisted it into a bun so it sat at the back of her head. When she was ready she made her way down stairs to find Garrick waiting at the door for her. When he saw her coming he opened the door to a sunny, blue day.

"Good morning Miss Belle," he greeted, bowing his head respectfully.

"Yes, it does seem to be a wonderful morning. Shall we go to the markets then?" She said happily as she moved to leave the manor, pulling a glove over one of her hands. If she was being sent away then she was going to make sure she made the most of it.

"I am afraid I will not be joining you but one of Eli's personal coachmen will accompany you," he explained. Annie stopped midway out the door and looked at him in surprise. Only one of her hands was placed in a glove, the other glove hung limp in her grasp. She saw something close to dismay in Garrick's eyes.

"Garrick, what on earth is going on?" She asked, worry evident in her voice. He remained silent for a moment before he responded.

"Eli has requested my presence for his meeting today and he feels you will be fine with one of his other coachmen." He sounded as if he had rehearsed the sentence and it came out a little strained.

"I see," she said irritated, looking at her hand as she pulled the other glove on. After it was in place she looked up and forced a smile. "Then I shall see you when I return, Garrick." She left before he could say anything about her mood. She felt suspicious of what was going on, like she was missing something but she had no idea what.

Garrick followed her out to the carriage and helped her into her seat. He closed the door and looked at her for a moment.

"Stay safe Miss Belle." And his words held more meaning than what he had actually said. With a half-smile between them the carriage lurched into motion and soon she was out of the gates and headed for town.

Before too long the carriage pulled up to the town gates and stopped. The coachman jumped down and opened the door for Annie to get out.

"Thank you," she said when both her feet were safely on the ground. "I will look around for a while and meet you back here. If there is a need, feel free to look for me," she instructed politely. With a nod from him she was off.

As Annie made her way down the busy street she felt eyes on her. Pausing, she looked around but saw nothing out of the ordinary. Deducing it down to her own paranoia she continued through the crowd trying to ignore the feeling.

She walked past the corner of a tall building and came upon a small alley that led behind the structure. As she walked past she was grabbed and pulled into the shadows by strong hands. She had no time to scream because her assailant had their hand over her mouth instantly. Their other arm gripped so tightly around her that they pinned her against them so she could not move an inch. She was stuck with her back against them and there was nothing she could do to save herself. Tears were just starting to sting her eyes when the person leaned down and whispered into her ear.

"Annie, would you like to have a little fun?" Baden asked mischievously. She let out a huge sigh of relief and he loosened his grip so she could turn around in his arms. When she was facing him he saw the tears glistening in her eyes and the smile dropped from his face immediately. He pulled her into an embrace as he realised the adrenaline he had felt rushing through her was from fear not fun.

"I am so sorry. I did not realise it would frighten you," he said frantically. She buried her face into his chest and let the relief seep into her.

"No, it is fine. I am just so glad it was you," she spoke into his shirt. Her breathing was still heavier than normal from the surprise. He waited for her to look up at him before he spoke again.

"I will not let anyone hurt you," he promised and she felt comfort from his words. Leaning down he gave her a sweet kiss that soothed her fear and replaced it with peace.

From across the street, hidden by the passing crowd, Micah and Eli witnessed the encounter. They were watching from a far distance away and made sure they were out of the breeze so their scent wouldn't be carried by it. They stayed out of sight and silent so Baden would not detect them. Eli silently looked to Micah who had an arrogant expression on his face. Discreetly they moved away and started back to their carriage.

"I told you," Micah said with satisfaction.

"We will talk when we are back at the manor," Eli said bluntly. He didn't like Micah much but most of all he didn't like his brother and now Baden was kissing the person he cared for. That changed everything.

The trip back to the manor was silent and tense but Micah didn't care, he was just happy that his plan was finally picking up pace. Soon they were in the library, Eli in his seat behind his desk and Micah in one close by. Eli looked at nothing in particular, he didn't feel rude that he was ignoring Micah's presence.

"Sometimes the perils of love are too much," Micah commented with a hint of mocking in his voice. Eli still did not face him.

"You wrote and insisted you must show me something and now you have. I am assuming that there is some motive behind this," Eli said unemotionally as he fiddled with a small, torn piece of paper.

"Yes. Baden needs to go." Micah's voice was harsh and his words were blunt. Eli darted his eyes to Micah and waited for him to continue. "We know how you can rectify this situation," he said alluding to the legend that he obviously knew.

"And what is in it for you if Baden is out of the way?" Eli asked letting his despise show.

"Baden has no right to her," he said angrily.

"Even if Baden was gone, what leads you to believe I will allow you to be anywhere near her?" Eli found Micah's reasoning confusing.

"At the very least you know I would not hurt her if I was around but I do not want the woman I love near that monster," he spat the words. Eli's jealously sparked when Micah said 'love'. How many people would he have to go through to get Annie?

"What is your plan? It is not as if we can kill him." Eli thought this whole thing a waste of time. He just wanted to be alone to deal with how he was feeling.

"I will deceive Baden into believing I have abducted Annie. I will lead a false trail into the forest where the first soul snatcher was created and then you may step in and finish the task," Micah explained as if it would be clean and easy. No mess, no fuss.

Eli considered this for a moment. Could he do this to his only brother? Before the sentiment had time to sink in he pushed it away. Baden was no longer his brother, he was a creature that must be kept from hurting others. He threw the scrap piece of paper he held on the desk and leaned forward.

"How will you make him believe you have taken Annie? I will not allow you even a brief opportunity to be alone with her so you can attempt to draw her into your snare," Eli said harshly. He did not like that he was dealing with a snatcher but he seemed to have no choice.

"I do not even need to be near her. Just send her somewhere, making sure Baden is unaware and I will do the rest," Micah said easily. He obviously had thought this through.

"How do you know the location of where the first soul snatcher came from?" Eli questioned. No one knew that, not even him.

"I do not. I will have to be shown," Micah said it as if it would not be an issue.

"I will have to discuss this with the other trackers and then get back to you." Eli gave nothing else away, his game face was flawless.

Eli was glad that he had met with some of the trackers as soon as he had received the most recent correspondence from Baden and they had come to town with his request. Eli was sure they would approve, they would do anything to confine Baden.

"Very well. Contact me as soon as you would like to begin the plan," Micah said as if Eli had already decided to do it. Micah stood to leave but spoke before he moved away from his seat. "The sooner the better," he said as if to warn Eli. Then he was gone.

Eli decided then and there to deal with Micah as soon as all of this was over. However many times Micah claimed he loved Annie, and no matter how many years had passed since he was in her life, it did not prove anything. Eli refused to believe that Micah would not hurt her eventually.

Whether that was Eli's jealousy or tracker instincts making him feel that way, he wasn't sure but either way Micah's fate was sealed in Eli's eyes.
CHAPTER 34

After Annie and Baden had a lovely day together she made her way back home. The carriage ride was just long enough for her to become nervous of what the reception might be when she arrived. Unfortunately she was about to find out.

She came through the door to find the place empty. She wasn't sure if this was a relief or something to be concerned about. She hurried to the staircase but as her foot touched the first step she paused out of guilt. Eli was obviously upset about something and she couldn't call herself a friend if she ignored it. With forced movements she made her way to the library to check for him. To her surprise she found the door locked. After rattling the handle a little she gave up and knocked.

No answer. So she knocked again. The library door was never locked so he must be in there. She knocked harder until her knuckles hurt and she gave up. Seeing no use for it she turned and started to walk away. The sound of the door unlocking and opening stopped her and she turned back to find Eli standing there.

"Did you have a nice day in town?" He asked finding it hard to hide his contempt. Annie felt there was more behind his words.

"It was wonderful," she answered watching him carefully. His face turned from ice cold to wide-eyed shock. Suddenly he started laughing then walked back into the library without any explanation. The act made him look insane. Annie stormed in after him and headed to his desk where he was walking to.

"What is going on?" She asked louder than she intended. He spun around and faced her as she kept moving toward him.

"Would you really like to know?" Eli asked harshly and it surprised her. He kept his eyes on her as he moved around behind his desk. She stopped in her tracks and stood staring at him as he stood there piercing her with accusing eyes.

"If there is something you would like to say then by all means, say it!" She found some of the fervour she had lost. He looked like he was holding himself back as he stood there silently fuming. "Fine, keep it to yourself like you do everything else!" Her hands gestured wildly as she yelled.

"That is hypocritical of you!" He yelled the words so loud Annie was stunned into silence. "How can you stand there and say anything to me?"

"Why do you not say what is actually on your mind instead of implying everything? Just say it!" Her face was red from her anger as she threw the words at him.

"Why him?" He yelled.

The room was left in silence, as if all the lies and facades had been shattered into a thousand pieces to the floor and they were planning the best route so as not to step on them. She stared at him and was about to ask who he was referring to but she knew he was talking about Baden. She remained silent, trying to regain her breath and think of something to say.

"I..." She went to speak but Eli interrupted her.

"No, I do not want to hear it. Surely you must know that you are being played a fool? Everything he does is to steal your soul!" He was still angry and she could see his body was tense.

"He does not need anything to survive and you know it," she argued.

"Who knows? All I know is he has done it before so he could do it again." He was frustrated at her way of thinking.

"Then why has he not stolen my soul yet?" She countered.

"Because he has to make sure you truly love him first," he said as if he was speaking to a child.

"I do love him!" Annie yelled before she could stop her words.

Eli's face turned in pain before he had time to cover it. He looked disgusted and bewildered at what she just said. She slowly clasped her hands together in front of her and bowed her head slightly like a scolded child. She wished with everything in her that she could take it back, not because it wasn't true but to spare Eli the hurt.

It was apparent when the full impact of what she had said seeped in. Eli's shoulders slumped and he lost the air right out of his lungs. After a moment he blinked away the tears and looked away from her, like he couldn't stand the sight of her anymore. He placed his hands on his sides and looked down at his desk.

"How can you say that?" The words came out as if he was pleading for them not to be true. When she didn't answer he looked up to find her staring at him with no explanation and he could see in her eyes that she really did love Baden.

Eli closed his eyes trying to push away the intense pain that was burrowing its way into him. Knowing the truth was like burning coals burying him alive. He let the anger rip right through him because it was better than feeling the pain. Without thought he swept everything off his desk in a fit of rage and it flew across the room, smashing into the bookshelves. Papers fell like feathers after being thrown in the outburst. He grabbed the lamp, which had somehow dodged the wreckage, and threw it against the wall along with the other items on his desk. It smashed loudly and the oil started dripping slowly down the wood of the shelves.

Annie jumped at the violent outburst though nothing was thrown towards her. She took a step back and held her hand to her chest as if this would help her cope with what was going on. Without one glance towards her, Eli moved around the desk and straight past her, ignoring that she was even there. He left the library faster than she could push a word out. She ran after him as quickly as she could.

"Eli, what are you going to do?" Annie asked panicked when she had caught up to him. She had to run to keep up with his pace.

"Garrick," he yelled ignoring her. Garrick was there in record time, walking in step with Eli. Garrick kept his composure though he would most certainly have heard the argument and surely the smashing of the lamp.

"Your horse is saddled and waiting outside," he responded then veered off when he saw that Eli did not need anything else from him.

"Eli," Annie begged and grabbed at his arm. He snatched it back, being sure not to harm her, and then stormed out the door. She followed without pause. "Where are you headed?" Her voice was a mess of tears and fear as it became mist on the dusk air. Eli mounted the horse with ease and grabbed the reins, commanding the horse's obedience. He looked down to Annie.

"Something that should have been done long ago," he said and kicked the side of his horse. The steed sped into motion and carried Eli out of the gates quickly, leaving Annie far behind.

Eli headed to where the trackers were lodged in a hidden house outside of town. All these years he had not gone after Baden, giving every excuse he could give himself but he knew the only real reason was because he was his brother. Now Baden had gone too far and his actions were too close to home for Eli to ignore his presence any longer. It was time to truly forget Baden was ever his brother and do what needed to be done.

Annie stood stunned in Eli's wake. She had no idea what he had been talking about and she had no way to change it. She ran to her room, ignoring Garrick as she fled the horrible mess she had fallen into. More so, the mess that she had run head first into. She locked herself in her room, threw herself on her bed and cried.

Baden snuck in and laid down beside her as she sobbed. She felt his hand on her back but did not look up at his touch. She moved closer to him and he held her knowing there was nothing he could do to fix the situation.

Maybe it was time for him to talk with Eli? However painful that would be for Baden he would do it for Annie. He would do anything for her. Right now he had to be there for her and he did just that.
CHAPTER 35

Two days passed with no sign of Eli. Baden had looked for him and came up short every time. Annie was stooped in the guilt and pain of it all and nothing helped to bring her out of her misery.

One day, when Baden was with Annie in her room trying to comfort her, there was a knock at the door. They both froze and stared at each other for a moment then Baden disappeared back to the trees. Annie ran to the door in hopes to see Eli but was disappointed when she opened the door to find Garrick standing there.

"Miss Belle, Mr. Brighton has requested that you meet him in town," he said and handed her a small slip of paper. Confusion clouded her face as she took the note and unfolded it. There was an address and a time sprawled across the paper. She looked to the clock on the mantel then back to Garrick.

"This is in twenty minutes," she said bemused.

"Then it would be best to leave immediately," Garrick suggested.

He seemed grim but Annie hardly noticed. She slipped on the nearest shoes she could find, which were a sensible walking shoe, then followed him to a waiting carriage. Her day dress was simple and white but suitable enough for town. He helped her into her seat in the carriage but did not join her. She did not query why, as she was too concerned with meeting Eli. So off she went to try and rectify the situation.

In her rush she did not have time to tell Baden of her plans but he followed closely behind.

The moment the carriage stopped, Annie jumped out without waiting for the driver to assist, and she rushed to the address written. She was already a few minutes late and she was fearful that Eli would leave before she arrived. Without knocking she ran into the building and stopped when the place was dark and empty. Dilapidated would have been the best word to describe it, absolutely nothing but cobwebs and dust lived in the place. Her breathing was heavy from her rush to get there and it took a moment for her eyes to adjust to the darkness. She heard footsteps off to the side and before she could be overcome with fear she looked and saw Micah coming toward her.

"Micah, where is Eli?" She asked worriedly.

"He asked me to meet you here so I could direct you to him," he said convincingly. She did not consider the fact that the last time Eli and Micah had spoken, Eli had tried to kill him. Everything was overshadowed with her thoughts of Eli at the moment and obvious details went by unnoticed.

"Why?" She asked as he placed his hand on her back and led her out the door she had just come through.

"He wanted your meeting to be private. This is to change the trail of any who may be following," Micah explained easily enough. Though he had meant Baden she thought he was referring to just anyone in particular that was in the area that Eli considered dangerous.

Micah helped her into a carriage she had never seen before that was waiting just outside the building. He took the seat next to her and drew the curtains so no one could see in. Without warning, the seat adjacent to them lifted up revealing Garrick. He stepped out of the concealed space and brushed himself off. Silently he placed himself on the now closed secret compartment and acted as if he had been sitting there the whole time. Annie looked at him, astonished by his sudden appearance. She waited expectantly to be enlightened.

"Soon everything will be revealed. However, for the time being we must take you to a location where you are safe," Garrick explained ambiguously. Annie gave up before she even began asking any questions.

Baden hid across the street and watched as Annie had been swept away by Micah. He moved to intervene but stopped short when Eli suddenly stepped in front of his path.

"I think it is time you and I caught up?" Eli said letting every bit of his hatred show.

"As much as I would love to do that, I must be off. If you had not noticed Annie was just taken by Micah," Baden said as he stepped around Eli.

"Just another excuse," Eli accused. Baden turned to him, deciding not to hide his own loathing any longer.

"The more time we waste here the more time he has to hurt her. Feel free to try and 'take me down', or whatever it is you plan to do, after Annie is safe." Baden turned to walk away but was stopped by Eli's hand grabbing his arm. Trying to compose himself for Annie's sake he turned back to Eli.

"Has he really taken her?" Eli asked, his face now pale and his eyes fearful. Baden simply nodded. There was something about Eli's reaction that wasn't quite right to him but he wasn't focused on anything other than Annie at the moment, so he didn't try to decipher what it was. "Then let us find her. How good are you at tracking?" Baden gave a look as if to say, seriously? "Then lead the way," Eli demanded.

"Try to keep up," Baden said. He didn't try to hide the fact that he thought Eli would be a burden and that he would rather ensure Annie's safety on his own. With their awkward provisional truce agreed, they were off.

After a short time of travelling the carriage pulled over to the side of the road and Micah jumped out. He turned to Annie as he held the door open theatrically after his exit and smiled.

"All good things come to those who wait," he said reaffirming what Garrick had said earlier. She rolled her eyes and he laughed as he closed the door. Then the carriage was back in motion.

"Where is he off to?" She asked knowing she wouldn't get an answer.

"Somewhere other than where we are," Garrick said. With a frustrated huff Annie settled back in her seat and prepared herself for a long trip, just in case. She had no idea where they were going.

To her surprise, shortly after their stop, they pulled over and Garrick assisted her out of the carriage. She looked up and realised they were at the Westwood estate, where she had discovered what Baden was.

"We have some of your things in the carriage along with some food. Do not look so glum, our stay is intended to be a short one," Garrick assured and started to help the coachman unload the trunks.

"Oh joy," Annie said under her breath. Little did she know that her stay would be much shorter than anyone had planned.
CHAPTER 36

Baden and Eli ran through the trees of a forest that was roughly forty minutes out of town. Micah had left a purposely strong scent for his trail and Baden followed it easily. Eli stayed close behind but struggled to keep the pace with Baden. Eli was astounded at how strong Baden was. What he didn't know was that Baden was running much slower than he was capable of for his sake.

As they ran Eli was starting to wonder if he could actually do this. All he had to do was get Baden into the house and the rest should be easy. Except for the fact there was another indestructible snatcher in the house that he was about to step into, with his estranged and volatile brother. Eli pushed out his doubts and continued forcing his body to move. This was the first time ever that he had felt puffed.

Baden slowed to a more manageable pace then stopped shortly after. Eli hid his strained breathing so Baden wouldn't know he was tired. They crept up to a small clearing where the cottage resided and crouched behind some shrubs.

The cottage was covered by the canopy of the trees but rays of sun filtered through, ironically giving it a heavenly presence. The trees grew around the structure, without imposing on its space, and it became part of the forest. If you weren't looking for it as you passed you might actually miss it. The ground was covered in a sea of fallen, dead leaves. The cottage itself was in quite good shape; it was small but quaint and made entirely of wood. If it didn't house an unstoppable, murderous soul snatcher it would actually be a nice place to stay.

"I did not know it was this close," Eli whispered to himself. Baden looked at him as if he were strange.

"What?" He asked. Eli internally panicked but kept himself composed.

"I just did not think Micah would keep her so close," he lied easily. Baden found the explanation plausible enough, and took Eli's anxious feelings to be concern for Annie, so he turned his attention back to the house.

Eli momentarily closed his eyes in relief then refocused on what was going on. Baden couldn't feel Micah anywhere close by but he could feel another snatcher's presence inside. He wasn't too worried, he would be able to deal with him easily. The only thing he was curious about was why he couldn't feel Annie. Eli spoke before Baden could think too much on it.

"I will go in first," Eli suggested hoping that Baden would refuse him. He had no back-up plan if he didn't but Eli supposed that was what a bluff was.

"No, I will go in and you follow up behind me," Baden said. Another bout of relief filled Eli. Baden started to move and suddenly Eli panicked. This was it, he was about to completely and utterly ruin his brother's life.

"Baden, wait," Eli said stopping him with a hand on his arm. Baden looked down to Eli's hand and he moved it away.

"What?" Baden asked impatiently.

"I...I..." Eli paused to try and think of what he was trying to say. Baden was becoming impatient and raised his brow to hurry Eli along. "I just want you to know that I regret coming back the night you turned."

Baden was shocked by his brother's words because he could feel the truth behind them.

"That..." But when Baden tried to think of what he thought of the apology he gave up. There was no use in talking about it now. "Can we discuss that later?" He asked wanting to focus on the task at hand. Eli nodded and let it drop.

Eli started to feel guilty. He had just apologised for what he had done years ago, and had really meant it, and now he was about to do the same thing. As they crept up to the house Eli found no use in playing it over in his mind. He just had to do what he had to do.

When Baden reached the door he slowly turned the handle. Eli used the noise to cover his movements as he pulled the dagger from his coat. His hand was shaking and as much as he willed it to stop it wouldn't. The door swung open and there was nothing but blackness inside. Baden could easily see through the shadows but there was nothing there.

After assessing the situation Baden stepped inside the long forgotten home. As soon as he was over the threshold Eli raised his hand that held the dagger. After a moment of hesitation he saw a figure move in the shadows and there was no more time. He had to do it now or the imprisoned soul snatcher would expose him.

"Baden," Eli called from behind before he could take a step away from the door. As Baden turned to him Eli thrust the dagger into his chest.

With regret in his heart and guilt in his soul, Eli betrayed his only brother once again.

Baden staggered back a few steps, not from the force of it but from the unexpectedness. He looked down and held onto the dagger with both hands. Now realising where he was and what had happened, he looked up at Eli with utter hatred burning in his fiery, blue eyes. Why had he not read Eli's soul more closely? He would have felt the deceit more clearly.

Eli quickly moved away from the threshold back outside, keeping his eyes on Baden the whole time. Their eyes locked whilst Baden slowly pulled the dagger from his chest. In a movement faster than even Eli could see, Baden threw the dagger and it sliced through Eli's skin into his shoulder. Eli fell to the ground from the velocity of the throw and the pain was instant.

Baden stepped up to the doorway and stood behind his invisible partition. Eli looked up to him and all he could see on Baden's face was sheer detestation. Nothing would ever remove the odium of what had just happened. They would never reconcile and it would always be Eli who threw the dagger first.

"I could have killed you but I did not for one simple reason, you will find Annie and ensure she is not in harm's way. You will come back and inform me that she is safe. Do you understand?" Baden growled the words through gritted teeth.

"Do you not understand? This was all a plan to do this to you. She is safe!" Eli said as he started to pull the dagger out of his shoulder. Pain drenched his voice. It had gone so far in that it was difficult to pull out.

"No, you do not understand! Micah will stop at nothing to get what he wants and he wants Annie. You are a fool for trusting him to be part of this," Baden yelled. Eli pulled the dagger out and could barely contain a scream. Why hadn't Baden been hurt as much? Eli staggered to his feet and gripped the bloody dagger in his hand.

"Why would I come back here and tell you?" Eli asked feeling weak from his wound.

"I have heard a few whispers along my travels and it is said that there is a way to be freed from the restriction on this place. It is my promise to you that if you do not ensure Annie's safety, and inform me of it, then I will kill you the day I can step out of here," Baden threatened and his words were like nightmares. "You know that I can kill you but you however cannot kill me...think about how that fight would end."

"And if what you heard of escape is merely rumour?" Eli asked bluffing. Who knew if anything anyone heard anymore was true?

"Then I will find another way to get at you until you wish you were never born." Baden was fed up with the time wasting and if he hadn't been restricted by the house Eli would have been dead by now.

"How did you find out that you could not be killed?" Eli asked. "I did not find out until after you were turned and you were long gone by then."

"Sorry to break it to you but information that the trackers believe is purely between them is not. In fact, most of it is common knowledge in the snatcher world. You are far behind," Baden said impatiently. "Now go," he ordered.

Eli looked at him for a moment longer before slowly moving away from the house. As he walked, his wound started to heal so he started to run. He just had to get to Annie now, to make sure she was safe. The more he thought of Annie the faster he ran. How far away was the house? Had she really gotten there safe or was there something he overlooked in his plan?

All these questions swam through his head as he made his way to her, hopefully to find that she was well.

Baden turned to find Stewart standing at the end of the hall. He was shorter than Baden and a little stocky but still muscular. His hair was wild and golden brown. He stood with his arms folded and Baden could tell he had just witnessed the encounter with Eli.

"Stewart," Baden addressed him as if they had already met.

"So you are Baden Brighton?" He asked which confused Baden. Stewart must have realised what he was thinking because he answered Baden's unspoken question. "There are those who know my location and they tend to share news of the world's events. Word spreads quickly about you when you are noted as the strongest snatcher ever to exist."

"Apparently it does," Baden commented. Ironically, for someone so strong he was feeling completely defeated.

"You have not truly heard of a way to escape from this place have you?" Stewart asked though he already knew the answer. Baden sighed before he answered.

"No, have you or any of your visitors?" Baden asked feeling hopeless. Stewart shrugged.

"What has been rumoured to work has been tried and has failed. There are those who still seek the answer but so far there is none," Stewart said and this time he actually looked a little defeated himself. He dropped his hands to his side and relaxed his stance.

"Then I suppose you and I should become better acquainted," Baden offered feeling uncomfortable with the situation.

It seemed that it would turn out to be a rather long existence for Baden after all, longer than he had anticipated.
CHAPTER 37

Eli ran up to the Westwood house and burst through the door where Annie was planned to be. Garrick ran to the entry with a dagger ready but dropped it as soon as he saw it was Eli.

"What is it, Sir?" Garrick asked confused. He looked to Eli's shoulder and saw the wound.

"It has healed," Eli assured him before he could become alarmed. "Is Annie here?" He asked looking past Garrick to search the rooms he could see within his view.

"Yes. Where else would she be?" Garrick thought Eli wasn't making any sense.

"Baden told me to check on her. He believes Micah cannot be trusted," Eli explained looking back to him.

"Baden?" Annie asked as she stepped out of one of the rooms close by. Garrick and Eli both turned to her, surprised by her sudden appearance. "Where is Baden?" She asked. Eli and Garrick looked to each other but remained silent.

Annie walked up to both of them and stood between them, facing Eli. She had her arms crossed and looked at him with the fiercest look she could muster.

"Tell me, Eli. Where is your brother?" She asked. Garrick took a step back to remove himself from the situation. Eli looked at her and found he could not say anything. What was he going to say? How was he going to justify what he had done?

"Annie, it is better..." but she didn't give him time to finish.

"Tell me!" She yelled not caring that Garrick was there. Eli became irritated that she was being so defensive of Baden and didn't think before he spoke.

"I will tell you where he is," he said as he took a step closer to her. "He is exactly where he should be, trapped for eternity with Stewart, where he can no longer hurt anyone." Eli's voice was filled with loathing. Annie's eyes widened with his words and she slapped him across the face. His head lashed to the side, not from the force of her hand but from the surprise of it. With his head still turned she closed the small distance between them and spoke.

"I will be leaving here as of tomorrow and you will never see me again," she said the words viciously. She turned to walk away but he grabbed her arm and stopped her from moving. She tried to push him away but he gripped her other arm so she couldn't move.

"Do not go. You will not be safe," Eli pleaded seeing that he had caused her reaction. All of this was his fault and he would do anything to change it.

"I do not care because you are not someone I trust any longer, I am not sure if I ever could. I do not want to be in your life, I want nothing to do with you ever again!" She yelled as she struggled to get away from him.

"Please, I will release him if you just stay," Eli bargained. His words were lies but he could not let her leave unprotected. She settled herself and stared up at him through the strands of hair that had fallen onto her face.

"Will you take me to him?" She asked hopeful to see Baden.

"No, it is too dangerous. I will have him released then he can go where he pleases." He disappointed her with his words.

"How will you have him released?" She doubted his truthfulness.

"I have heard whispers of ways to free him," he said using Baden's words as his lie. Annie looked at him sceptically before she gave in.

"Very well, do that and there may be a chance that I choose to remain in your life." And this time she lied. She doubted that she would ever be in Eli's future because he would never accept her relationship with Baden. Slowly, he let her go and she stepped away from him.

"Now let us settle for the night," Eli suggested.

"I would rather be alone," Annie said not looking at him. She knew he would protest with the argument of protection so she beat him to it. "No one else knows where I am and as long as I stay within the house no snatcher will be able to harm me. I am completely safe and will not require any guardians tonight." Before he could respond she walked to the back room and disappeared.

Eli looked at Garrick who shrugged his shoulders. Eli's lips tightened in frustration. Seeing no use for it Eli waved Garrick over, indicating they were leaving. They headed out the door and left as requested. Garrick mounted his horse and trotted alongside Eli as he walked.

"Tell me, are you going to release Baden?" Garrick asked when he thought they were out of earshot.

"Even if I knew how to, I would not," Eli said truthfully. "I just need to keep her safe because at the moment she cannot see what is good for her." Garrick nodded and thought nothing of Eli's lies.

Annie had snuck up to the front window when they had started walking away and she heard Eli's words. She knew he had been lying to her and decided then and there never to trust him again. She decided not to leave just at the moment, she wasn't stupid. She knew that she wasn't safe but when Eli had dealt with the dangers in her life, she would leave and never see him again. She also needed to find where Baden was and the only way to find out was from Eli. She had to stay around, at least long enough to do that. Some might say it was using him but he had deceived her. They were no longer friends and now all seemed fair in love and war.

The day had grown long and Annie had searched the limited books in the house for anything that might point her in the direction of Baden. When she came up short she threw a book across the room and let defeat live in her for just a moment. She refused to cry because if she did, that would mean that she believed there was no way to get Baden freed. But from her own life experiences she knew that there was usually a way for everything, you just had to look in the right places.

Giving herself a break she walked to the front room to watch the sun set. She enjoyed watching the lovely colours play across the sky as the sun went to bring light to another part of the world. Who knew, maybe Baden was watching the same scene? Wherever he might be.

Just before night had settled and the sun was winking its last, a figure came walking towards the house. It was hard to see but after Annie's eyes adjusted she could make out that it was Rosemary. Confused, she ran to the door and swung it open but stopped before she stepped out. She wasn't meant to leave the house. Suddenly Rosemary stumbled and fell onto the ground clutching her stomach. In the last moment of light Annie could see blood dripping from where Rosemary was holding.

"Rosemary," Annie screamed and forgetting everything else she ran to her beloved friend. She was only a small distance away from the house so Annie made it to her in no time. "Rosemary, what has happened?" Annie gasped as she pulled Rosemary's head into her lap and stroked her hair. There was so much blood, more than Annie had ever seen. Rosemary looked up at her through lifeless, glassy eyes and her skin was deathly white.

Rosemary lay dead in Annie's arms. Annie froze from the shock of it and tears fell silently from her eyes. Her body began to tremble as she gently shook Rosemary to try and wake her.

"Please, Rosemary," she spoke through sobs to her lost friend. "What happened?" She whispered.

Before Annie had time to grieve any longer she was grabbed from behind. She was dragged away from Rosemary's body and violently thrown to the ground. She hit her head against a rock and the pain spread through her quicker than flowing water. She looked around trying to see who was there and before blackness had completely stolen her sight a familiar figure stepped in front of her.

"Nice to see you again, Annie," Miss Danes said and then everything went black.
CHAPTER 38

Annie woke to find herself locked away in the dry storage room of Miss Danes' manor. She tried to sit up but when she did her head throbbed. She reached and gently touched the back of her head to find where she hit was still very tender and covered in dried blood.

"Ah," she hissed and moved her hand away immediately. Her dress was all dirty from lying on the ground but she didn't care.

She looked around the room and saw sunlight filtering in from a small window. That meant she had easily been there all night, maybe longer. There were hessian sacks filled with supplies such as; wheat, sugar and potatoes. Vegetables lined some wooden shelves and she remembered the room well. It was a small room but was large enough to walk around in. The heavy wooden door that was the only exit was always latched from the outside with a long, iron bar that stretched the length of the whole door. So there was no option of escape unless she could fit through a window the size of a watermelon or if she was strong enough to break iron. And she could do neither.

Annie closed her eyes and tried to push away the pressure in her head. She could not think about Rosemary right now because her head felt like it would explode from the tears. Instead she laid there trying to regulate the pain which was practically impossible. No one knew where she was and she didn't even know if they knew she was gone. She was at the mercy of Miss Danes and there was nothing she could do about it.

Eli stood outside calling to Baden early that morning. After a moment Baden opened the door and stood there with his arms crossed.

"Is she safe?" Baden asked, not bothering for pleasantries.

"Yes, but I cannot say she is pleased," Eli said sharply.

"I wonder if the reason is that you trapped me here or you used her to accomplish it!" Baden said sarcastically.

"If you were not part of her life then I predict that she and I would be together now," Eli tormented. "Happily together... sharing a bed." His eyes narrowed on the last words. Baden dropped his arms to his side and a look of revulsion and hostility erupted on his face. If he hadn't been restricted he probably would have killed Eli where he stood.

"Do not fool yourself into believing that she wants you in any other way than a friend," Baden spat back. "You tell yourself such things because you do not want to face the truth that you cannot have the one you want because she does not want you." The words cut Eli like Baden had intended them too and it fuelled his retaliation.

"You are meant to be dead Baden. If nature took its course you would be buried along with our parents, which would be more respectable than what you are." Eli spoke his feelings bluntly. Baden paused before he spoke again, his anger was boiling beyond control.

"You say this when I cannot get to you. You are weak and pathetic and as soon as I am free I will kill you with nothing but my bare hands," Baden threatened. Eli turned and started walking away but Baden wasn't finished. "Know that I will love her every day of my existence and I will care for her more than you will ever know. And she will love me with all of herself because she already does."

The words made Eli pause for a brief moment but he forced himself to keep walking. He didn't have to be there anymore and listen to Baden's words...Baden's hurtful, truthful words. So Eli left without saying anything else.

Annie was sure at least a whole day had passed since she had been taken. Random people had brought her food and water and she ate when she couldn't stop herself any longer. There had been no sign of Miss Danes, which was a relief, but what exactly did she have planned for her? Surely someone knew she was missing? Surely someone had checked on her? So Annie sat and waited. What else could she do?

Time felt long and every minute felt the equivalent of an hour. Annie sat there and thought of Baden every moment and pushed out any pain about Rosemary. She could not let herself feel sadness or she might be overwhelmed with defeat. So she relived every tender moment she ever had with Baden and when she had thought of them all, she relived them again.

Suddenly the latch on the door was pulled opened and Annie jumped to her feet. She had no idea who it would be. If it was Miss Danes she had no way of defending herself. She moved to the back of the room and leaned against the wall in a braced position, just like Eli had taught her, so if the person wanted to harm her they would have to come at her from the front.

When Micah came through the door she stood frozen in surprise.

"Annie," he said with relief in is voice as he rushed to her. He gathered her into his arms and crushed her in an embrace. "I have been so worried," he breathed the words on frantic breath. It was too surreal and Annie stood there stiff in his arms. He leaned back and looked to see what her hesitation was.

"Micah, how did you find me?" She asked, sounding a little ungrateful.

"When I realised you were missing I searched for you. When I knew you were here I came for you immediately," he explained. It all sounded so easy when he said it.

"Where is Miss Danes?" Annie was still too confused with the details to feel relieved.

"As soon as she was confronted she fled." Micah said it very simply, as if she should stop questioning him. It all sounded so bizarre to Annie. She looked around the room as if it would make things feel real again and tried to step out of Micah's arms. He held onto her tightly and kept her close against him.

"I still do not understand?" Annie insisted. She felt as if it was all an awkward dream and had arrived at the moment where you realise you are dreaming but remain asleep.

"Annie, when I thought I would never see you again it almost killed me. It has been torture not knowing you were safe," Micah said, ignoring her words. She looked at him, her brow furrowed in confusion. What was he talking about?

"I am sorry you felt that way but it was not pleasant sitting in here either," she said starting to realise Micah tended to think of his own feelings before others. Suddenly his hands were nestling her face in a way that made her feel uncomfortable.

"Annie I cannot live without you, I cannot do life without you," he declared and before she could say anything or try to move away he leaned down and placed a gentle kiss on her lips.

He held her so tight she couldn't move but her lips remained stiff from anger during the unwanted affection. As soon as he pulled his head back she spat off to the side and pushed hard against his chest to get away from him. He released her as she wiped her mouth and spluttered the kiss away. He stood there without moving, obviously offended by her reaction.

"Why on earth would you do that?" She asked, allowing all of her annoyance show. "I have told you time and time again that I do not feel that way about you. I am in love with Baden, Micah!" She was so taken by surprise that she almost yelled the words. He stood there glaring at her for a moment and his gaze started to make her a little fearful. He stepped up to her and stood so close that she could feel his breath on her face.

"You can love a monster like Baden but you cannot love me?" He asked in a tone so deathly it sent a shiver down her spine.

"Micah, you do not understand," she argued.

"I do understand, Annie," he interrupted and before anything else could be said Micah shoved her into the sacks full of wheat. She stumbled back hard against them but braced herself with her arms as best she could.

"Micah," Annie said horrified but he left without another word and locked the door behind him. She ran up to the door and banged hard against the wood. "What are you doing?" She screamed. "Let me out!" But it was no use, he was gone and there was no one else who could help her.

Annie walked over to the back wall and slid down to sit against it. How could this have happened? How could Micah be someone she hardly knew after all these years? As she sat there contemplating what had come over him she heard footsteps coming towards the door. She stood to her feet and waited for the door to open.

Micah practically threw Miss Danes into the, now prison, and slammed the door closed, locking it hard. His footsteps were the only thing that the two women heard through the silence of their shock. They stood facing the door expecting it to reopen but it remained closed. They looked at each other awkwardly after both of them realised that the new arrangement meant they would be bunking together.

"I guess I have some explaining to do then," Miss Danes said and the defeat that Annie saw there was genuine. "You may want to consider taking a seat, it is a long tale," Miss Danes suggested.

Annie moved and sat in the furthest corner away from her new inmate, as Miss Danes took the opposite corner.

It seemed that things were about to get more interesting.
CHAPTER 39

Eli had waited more than a day to let Annie have some space to herself. He didn't want to push her into making amends that weren't sincere, so now he headed there to see if there was anything they could do to start repairing their friendship.

He arrived to find the house in order. Everything was neat and in place but there was no Annie. Eli went through every room three times, only to find that some of her clothes and belongings were missing. She must have packed her things and left. Now she was out there all alone and it was entirely his fault, she left because of what he did to Baden.

Eli jumped back on his horse and went straight home to speak with Garrick about his next course of action. No matter what, he had to find her.

"I apologise if I offend you by asking this Miss Danes," Annie started.

"Please, call me Martha," she offered. Annie looked at her uncomfortably for a moment before trying the name out.

"Martha," she said cautiously. "How is it that you find yourself in here?" Martha let out a sigh and leaned back on the wall as if she had given up hope for everything.

"I will start at the beginning dear, innocent Annie," Martha said her name affectionately. Her care made Annie feel uneasy so she kept her guard up. "Many years ago I was going about my daily business when I was accosted from behind. When I woke up I had been turned into a soul snatcher. I had no idea what was going on but Micah soon explained everything."

"Micah said that you demanded he change you," Annie interrupted.

"Of course he said that. It was all part of the plan," Martha explained. Hopelessness was ripe in her voice as she spoke. "Everything he has told you is a lie. Everything he has ever done for you was an act to gain your soul," she revealed. All of a sudden it clicked and Annie realised.

"Micah has never truly loved me, it was all an attempt to soul snatch," Annie said under her breath as she gazed at nothing in particular. She couldn't believe that their friendship had all been a lie. All those years, all those secrets between them, all the things that only friends understand were nothing but a lie. Refocusing, she looked back to Martha.

"Tell me, how much of it was true?" Annie asked, her voice almost begging there to be a sliver of hope. Martha shook her head and was obviously struggling to hold back tears.

"None of it, everything you know of him is false. He has played a good game and now he is livid that he has lost what he had started," Martha answered.

"Tell me. Tell me what he has done," Annie implored. She felt sick to her stomach that she had let someone into her life that didn't care about her at all.

"All those years ago when he heard your father rambling on about how he had freed himself from the burden of fatherhood, Micah thought you would be an easy target. He thought you would be vulnerable, needing a man to come and save you. He came here and changed me and ever since he has been forcing me to bow to his every command," Martha confessed, finally feeling relieved that she could do so. Annie remembered Micah's version that he had told her and realised how much he had skewed it.

"What has he made you do?" Annie asked starting to see that Martha was nothing but a puppet in Micah's sick pursuit.

"He obviously had to do the groundwork so he spent many years getting close to you. It all was going to culminate in him rescuing you. He thought that would guarantee him winning your love." It sounded as if she thought it was a ridiculous plan. "So he left you stranded at the markets one day and waited for you to walk back to the manor alone. He had organised one of his minions to attack you and he had planned to save you but Baden stepped in unexpectedly," Martha said, disgust from Micah's actions evident in her voice.

"He had that snatcher attack me?" Annie asked it more to herself than anything. She was disturbed to her core by what Micah had done.

"He was furious. I was beaten to within an inch of my life!" Martha said it as if it was nothing out of the ordinary. Annie tried to make the connection as to how Micah saw it as Martha's fault that his plan had not succeeded, but she supposed that if someone was crazy enough then anything was an excuse.

"I am sorry," Annie said knowing that it would not take away the pain from the past.

"Annie, do not be absurd." Martha thought it was preposterous that Annie was the one apologising. "I am sorry that you were hurt so badly." Annie could see tears in her eyes and she almost went to comfort her but she thought it might be a little awkward for them both.

"What is done, is done." Annie brushed it off trying to make Martha feel better.

"After his plan failed he told me to start openly treating you badly so when I threw you out it would not seem strange," Martha retold the story with regret. "I am sorry that I slapped you. I only did so because I thought if I made it seem that I was trying my best to assist in Micah's plan then he would not see what I was truly trying to do for you."

"Wait, Eli told me that he had intended to get me thrown out," Annie interjected.

"It was merely coincidental timing when I decided to action the plan. I could see Eli cared for you and I thought if I did it seemingly because of him, then he might take it upon himself to intervene or pursue you." It sounded as if there was hope in Martha's voice.

"You did it to try and help me?" Annie was surprised by her attempt.

"Yes. I had to try in such a way that Micah would not be suspicious of my motives. If he found out then he most likely would have killed me." She said it as if she found the thought desirable now. "So I slapped you, hoping that it would convince Micah of my loyalty to his plan and guilt Eli into helping you. Micah scolded me for it afterwards. I am not sure but I think along the way he did start to care for you, in his own perverted way," Martha mused aloud.

"Then what?" Annie urged her to continue with the story.

"So when you were making your escape he quickly organised to have someone in the graveyard waiting to attack you. He followed you as you fled and he managed to divert your path by blocking every other passage except through to the graveyard. Though his plan was foiled yet again, this time by Eli's appearance." Martha sounded pleased that Micah had not succeeded so many times. Annie was starting to see how truly lucky she was.

"Then he lost his advantage," Annie guessed. Martha simply nodded, her lips tightly shut as if to keep something from slipping out. It was obvious she did not want Annie to know the repercussion it had on her and Annie decided not to ask. Micah was clearly insane and Martha seemed to be his stress relief when something didn't go his way.

"As you know he proposed, then sent me to try and negotiate your return with Eli but all attempts failed. So he went back to his first theory of saving you. When you were sent to the safe house he had another of his sycophants attack you but again Baden was there." Martha sounded relieved and shocked at the odds of it.

Annie recalled the story Micah had spun to her about that night also. She was astounded by what she was hearing. How could she not have known?

"He did all that?" Annie asked in disbelief.

"There is more. He not only organised to have Baden trapped in that place but he..." Martha's tears came gushing out as she could not hold them any longer. Annie rushed over and embraced her, she would not be human if she refrained from trying to comfort someone in this much anguish. "He killed Rosemary and planted her outside the safe house so you would come out. He grabbed you from behind so you could not see him and forced me to speak so you thought it was me. Then he could come along and 'rescue' you from me," she sobbed as she told the story.

"And then I made it clear that I would never love him and now we are both in trouble," Annie concluded. She couldn't believe such a sick creature existed. One that not only almost had her killed multiple times but killed someone she cared for so dearly, trapped the only one she had ever loved, changed an innocent woman into a soul snatcher and abused her for years when his sick plans were ruined.

"No one knows where we are and if I break through the door he will kill us both. No one knows you are in trouble because he made it seem as if you left by packing your things," Martha said as she wiped away her tears.

"How did he enter the Westwood house?" Annie asked the useless question.

"He had been there previously. It is only I who could not enter," Martha explained.

Annie was beginning to realise that there may not be much hope of escaping or being rescued. All that was left was Eli and it seemed he would think she chose to leave. Maybe he would figure it out?

But the more time that passed the more she was convinced that he wouldn't.
CHAPTER 40

After Eli consulted with Garrick he decided to ask the only other person who may know where Annie was. So he made his way back to Baden. As Eli was walking up to the cottage Baden heard him approach and he was at the door in an instant. He opened it in a rush and Eli stopped as soon as he saw Baden.

"What are you doing here?" Baden asked curtly. Eli was trying hard to control his temper because he needed answers from Baden.

"Do you know where Annie has fled to?" Eli asked as politely as he could manage. Baden's face dropped in fear.

"You do not know where she is?" He asked trying to hold back the terror that was trying to creep in. Eli swallowed hard seeing that Baden didn't have an answer for him.

"I went to the safe house and she had packed her things and left. I thought you may know where she has gone," Eli said. He tried to fight off the suspicion that he was missing something obvious. Baden stood there in disbelief. How could Eli be so stupid?

"Are you daft? She has been taken and someone has gone to the trouble of making it look as if she has willingly left!" Baden yelled. He turned and smashed a hole in the wall beside him. "Find her!" He demanded.

"Where?" Eli's fear was crowding his thoughts.

"Who else would have her?" Baden yelled as if the answer was obvious. Eli just stared at him and didn't answer. "Micah!" He screamed when Eli just stood there like an idiot for a moment.

As soon it clicked Eli was off. He was headed to the only place he thought Micah might be, Miss Danes' manor.

Baden walked back into the house and looked for something to smash. He picked up the nearest chair and hurled it against the wall. The wooden chair didn't stand a chance as the force of his throw shattered it into a million splinters. He yelled into the air in a rage that was greater than anything he had ever felt. He was stuck in this house and could do nothing to save Annie. The one time he could use his strength to help he was rendered useless.

This whole time he had felt that Micah's soul was obsessed with Annie, and that made Baden wary of him, but Micah had somehow convinced himself that he was not going to hurt her even though his plan was to do just that. His self-delusion made it impossible for Baden to sense his true desire to steal her soul.

Stewart walked into the room after the chair was destroyed but could think of nothing to say that would bring comfort to his new companion. When the hopelessness overwhelmed Baden he went into the nearest room, which was a small library, and locked the door. There he sat against the wall with his legs pulled up to his chest and his head on his knees, hoping with everything in him that Annie was safe.

Annie and Miss Danes sat there together in silence trying to think of something they could do to help themselves.

"I have someone I love also," Martha said out of the blue. Obviously she had gone off topic in the silence.

"Who?" Annie asked, thankful for the distraction.

"Do you recall that man you found in my bed?" Martha reminded. Annie simply nodded in reply, trying not to feel embarrassed by the memory. "I found him on one of the trips Micah had sent me on. He would send me away to secret facilities organised to research soul snatchers and offer them education. Micah wanted to know as much as he could about what he was but he would not be able to explain his long absences if he went."

"So every time you were 'travelling', you were really researching?" Annie clarified.

"Most of the time, yes. Not too long ago I met a man there, he was so kind and he was everything I wanted to be. So I spent as much time with him as I could. He eventually said he loved me, even though he knew what I was." Martha retold the story with wistfulness.

"Then what?" Annie asked excitedly. Martha smiled to herself at the memory.

"He asked me to change him so he could be with me forever," she said as if she still couldn't believe it. "The day you found him, he was just waking up after the change was complete. He was a little confused but he eventually managed himself."

"Where is he now?" Annie asked just realising he may be their hope.

"I sent him away not too long ago." Annie felt her hope drift away as quickly as it had come. "In one of Micah's particularly aggressive rants he threatened to kill him. So I begged him to leave and told him I would come for him when it was all over. Neither of us was strong enough to go against Micah."

"What is his name?" Annie felt happy that Martha had found love.

"Everard," Martha said the name with all the affection she felt toward him. Annie smiled at her new found friend's happiness. "Tell me about Baden?" Martha asked with curiosity in her voice. She wanted to share in Annie's joy of finding someone she loved.

Annie smiled and went to speak but before she could get a word out Micah came through the door. The women looked up in shock and their fear came rushing back as he stood there looking between them. Micah set his eyes on Annie and started toward her. She instinctively shuffled back as fast as she could but there was nowhere to go. Micah grabbed her arm and pulled her off the floor.

"No," Martha screamed from behind them and went to attack Micah.

With a strong backhand he slapped her across the face and she fell to the ground. He let go of Annie and turned to deal with Martha so Annie fled the room. She didn't want to leave Martha but if she could escape and get help then she had to do it.

Micah slammed Martha against the wall so hard she fell limply to the ground. He locked her back inside the storeroom and ran after Annie. She had barely made the top of the stairs when he grabbed her from behind. She screamed in fright but he just laughed.

"No one will hear you Annie," he said calmly as he held her tightly around the waist and forced her to move along with him.

"Please, Micah. Please let me go," she pleaded but he remained silent.

He dragged her toward the staircase as she tried to pull away from him. He overpowered her easily, no matter how much she resisted him. The manor was completely empty, with not a soul in sight to save her. He had fired the rest of Martha's help and now they were the only ones in the manor. Her heart stammered in fear when she realised he was taking her to the master bedroom. She kicked and scratched at him but he restrained her effortlessly as he dragged her up the stairs.

"Help!" She screamed as the tears fell and she realised there was nothing she could do.

Without a word Micah pulled her into the room and locked the door. The latch sounded like it echoed in her ears as she heard her way out stolen from her.

"You do not have to do this," Annie said quietly as she tried to control her tears. He pulled her in and held her as if they were in a lover's embrace. It was like he was ignoring the fact that he was forcing her to be there. He softly touched her face with his hand as he held her close around the waist.

"Annie, this can be something you enjoy." His voice sounded like a caress but it felt like needles all over her skin. The tears ran down her cheeks as he started to pull her dress up. She pushed her hands against his chest in protest but he held her tighter, almost uncomfortably.

"Or this can be something that hurts you. You decide," he growled into her ear.

She had no other option than to switch off. So when he went for her lips she stood there unmoving. His lips moved against hers but hers remained motionless.

"Kiss me," he demanded in a low, breathy voice. When he started kissing her again she complied emotionlessly. He shook her a little but it was enough to demand some passion from her. He gripped her harder as a warning to show he would inflict pain if she would not do as he wanted her to.

Annie closed her eyes and thought of Baden as she cried silently. She moved her lips against Micah's, letting the adrenaline from the fear drive her movements. He moved them towards the bed and Annie's heart started racing with terror. She tried to tell herself it was Micah, she had known him for years, but however much she tried she could not rid herself of the dread she felt.

Lifting her off the ground he took her to the bed and laid her down. He either did not notice her tears or he did not care as he laid his weight on her. He moved his lips away from hers and started kissing down her neck as his hand slid under her dress and up along her leg. She couldn't help the gasp of disgust that escaped her but she muffled it as best she could.

Without warning Micah bit her neck and drew blood from the wound.

This was not like Baden's bite where he released bane to ensure her enjoyment, this was simply a bite to drink and it felt like the life was being stolen from her. It felt like her veins tightened every time he sucked and she could feel her blood slip through them towards his mouth. She couldn't help the chilling scream that burst from her lungs from the pain as the blood stuck to her neck in a mess.

She was about to give up as Micah's hand slipped higher on her leg. This was it, he was about to have his way with her then drain her of every drop of blood. Seeing no use for it and not being able to hold the pain any longer, she cried her tears aloud.

"Baden," she whispered his name just to say it one more time before she died. Just so he was the last thing on her lips as she lost the life in her.

Micah froze at the word and moved his head back to look at her. Her blood covered his lips and a drop fell on her face. She tried to move out of the way but it landed on her cheek and rolled down into her hair.

"What did you say?" He asked as if she had insulted him to the greatest degree. Somehow the terror mutated into anger and she wasn't afraid any longer.

"I said, Baden!" She spat the words at him as if it would curse him to do so. Rage filled his face as he sat up and straddled her on the bed, keeping his eyes on her. He lifted his hand and struck her across the face. Her head snapped to one side and she felt the heat on her face build until hot blood seeped from where she was hit.

He lifted his hand to strike her again but someone burst through the door. They slammed into Micah and dragged him away from Annie. She was dragged off the bed and fell to the ground in the chaos but managed to keep away from the actual fight. As she sat up and looked around she saw Eli and Micah fighting with every bit of strength they held. Furniture had no chance as they smashed each other into anything they could find. The room was quickly being turned to rubble so Annie jumped up and ran out the door. She felt dizzy and lost her balance from the blood loss so she leaned her weight against the wall. She slid her way along and moved as fast as her weakened body would allow.

When Annie reached the bottom of the stairs she heard an almighty smash of glass come from the bedroom and it did nothing but spur her on. She ran to Martha as quickly as she could.

It was difficult to pull the iron bar back but she managed it after a few tries. When she walked through the door Martha looked up at her with an expression filled with surprise and concern.

"Annie," Martha gasped and ran to her but everything went black and Annie passed out.
EPILOGUE

Eli stood at the door of the cottage in front of Baden. He didn't know why he had come, after everything that had passed between them, but Eli felt as if he owed Baden something.

"Where is Annie now?" Baden asked coldly after Eli had told him what happened.

"She is at my manor," Eli informed.

"And where is Micah?" Baden said the name as if it tasted like poison.

"I stabbed him through the chest but..." Eli paused.

"But what?" Baden asked angrily.

"But I think it missed. He fled after I threw him out of the window. I thought he might have been headed for Annie again so I ran to her." Eli knew he had failed and the excuse wasn't even enough for his own soul to believe.

"So he is still out there?" Baden shook his head in disbelief. Eli nodded and looked down disgraced at his own failure. Baden let out a disgruntled breath but remained silent.

Moments passed before either one of them said anything. Eli was too ashamed of himself to look anywhere but at his feet.

"Take care of her," Baden said breaking the silence. Eli looked up at him and saw no hint of anger. "You are the only one out there to protect her now," he said with an ache in his heart that he suspected would remain eternally.

And Eli saw that Baden truly loved Annie.

"I will," Eli promised as much to himself as to Baden.

When it was obvious there was nothing else to be said Eli left.

Closing the door Baden moved to the room he was starting to think of as his own and locked the door. After all these years he finally got what he deserved for his despicableness, he was going to suffer an eternity without the one he loved. And it broke him.

After time enough to mend physically, Annie sought Eli out and found him in the library. When she came through the door he stood from behind his desk and quickly walked over to her.

"What are you doing up?" He asked, alarm drenching his voice. Annie smiled at his over protectiveness.

"I am feeling much better," she assured him as he checked her over with his eyes. "Eli, I need to ask you to do something for me," she said with all seriousness. He looked to her and waited for the question he knew was coming. "Please, can you take me to Baden?" Her voice was soft and pleading and her sadness rang through as clear as a bell.

"Annie, you know I cannot do that," Eli refused her as kindly as he could.

"Please, you do not understand," she started to argue.

"No," he said cutting her off. And the word sounded so final that it brought on the tears that she had hidden under the surface. He reached out to touch her but she moved away so he couldn't. It hurt to move abruptly but she hid the pain from him.

With nothing but a betrayed look Annie left the room silently. Eli stood there and decided not to go after her. They would work it out in time.

As soon as Annie was in her room she locked the door and packed as many things as she could fit into a bed sheet. She wrapped it into a bindle and threw it out her window, landing with a soft thud on the ground below. She quickly changed into her training gear; her pants, shirt and vest and tied her hair back in a braid. She laced up her knee high boots and with a breath to calm herself, she eased out onto the window sill and started climbing down the lattice. Every now and then she slipped a little and her heart would race with adrenaline from the fear of falling. Her relief knew no bounds when her feet touched solid ground.

She picked up her things and made her way to the stables as discreetly and quickly as she could. She was surprised when Joel, the stable boy, came out of one of the stalls. He was fifteen, with sandy coloured hair, rosy cheeks and pale skin. His eyes were dark but friendly and his face was well on its way to developing a strong jaw line. When he saw her he fumbled with the bucket he was carrying and dropped it.

"S-s-sorry," he stuttered from his nerves.

"It is fine. Please, can you saddle a horse for me?" She asked with urgency.

"There is a horse saddled but it is Mr. Brighton's. He will be using it momentarily," he explained looking at his feet.

"Please tell Mr. Brighton I apologise for the inconvenience but I needed his horse immediately. Bring it to me," Annie instructed.

Joel looked conflicted but eventually he did as he was told. He gave her a leg up onto the horse and she put a leg either side of the mount. Eli would be out any moment according to Joel so she had no time to tie her bindle to the saddle. Instead she placed it between her legs, grabbed the reins and rested her elbows on it to keep it down.

"Miss, where shall I tell him you are off to?" He asked feeling brave enough to look up at her this time.

"Unfortunately I cannot tell you. Now start saddling another mount so you do not get into too much trouble. Tell him I gave you no choice," Annie said knowing that Eli would be fair to the young man.

Joel nodded and moved out of her way. As soon as he was out of the way she kicked the horse's side and shot off towards the gates. Her heart was racing and the deep breaths she was taking burned her throat. She soon felt a little relief when she was well clear of the grounds and she had not been followed.

As long as she got a head start, and Eli didn't know where she was going, then she should be able to make it.

After Annie's legs and backside started to get sore beyond bearable limits, she spied the manor up ahead and she closed her eyes momentarily in relief. She kicked the horse into a gallop and finished that last part of her journey as quickly as she had started it. Near the back of the manor she threw her things on the grass, jumped off herself then turned the horse back around. She gave it a slap on the backside and sent it running back in the direction they just came from, she knew it would make its way back to Eli because it had been trained well.

Annie grabbed her things and ran to the back entrance of the familiar manor. Before she could knock on the back door Martha opened it, as she had seen Annie coming.

"Annie, what is the matter?" She asked concerned for her young friend's wellbeing.

"I need to ask you to help me with something," Annie said, still catching her breath. She was a little puffed from the run. Martha ushered her inside to the kitchen and closed the door.

"What is it?" Martha asked, horrified that Annie had travelled there on her own. Annie took a short moment to catch her breath as she held her humble bundle of belongings close to her chest, as if it was her comfort.

"Can you please help me find Baden?" Annie let all of her desperation and vulnerability fall into her words. She looked at Martha with wide eyes and a pleading face, begging her silently to say yes.

The time it took for Martha to answer felt like a lifetime of waiting and Annie's heart started to chip away and break as she was sure she would be refused. Before she had lost all hope Martha nodded her head subtly then it moved into a more definite movement.

"Yes." Martha finally said the word and it was like a chorus to Annie's ears.

A smile stretched across Annie's face and she started laughing in relief. Martha joined in her joyous laugh and they both pushed away their little internal voices telling them that it would be near impossible to find him. Even if they did they wouldn't be able to release him. They ignored the doubt and just celebrated for the moment.

"Let us get you settled in," Martha said as she gently placed a hand on Annie's back and started to lead her through the kitchen. They walked towards the upstairs bedrooms.

And Annie was starting to get that little seed of hope that she might see Baden again. This made everything seem just that much brighter and made it easier for her to breathe.

When Annie had settled into her room and dinner had long passed, she laid in her comfortable bed staring out into the moon filled sky and thought of Baden.

Baden sat in the open doorway of his new residence, resting his back against the frame and leaning his head to one side against the door as he gazed up at the stars. As he sat looking up into that same night sky as Annie and he thought of her, as he had unceasingly and as he always would.

His past had already started to catch up with him and now Annie was the one who would be burdened with the consequences of his mistakes, all because he loved her. He had left a trail of enemies and regrets longer than he could count and now she was defenceless against them all, he couldn't even protect her. He doubted that even Eli would be able to defend her. Now he had an eternity for the guilt and fear to bury itself deeper and deeper into his soul until there was nothing left of him.

Just thinking about her vulnerability caused him no end of pain. Surely there had to be a way to keep her safe? He refused to believe that there wasn't. Right there he promised himself that he would find a way for her to have her life back, not matter what it took.

"Until next time," Baden whispered to Annie through the cold night air.

