Chapter 2 First encounter

Four months earlier

Another day, another day to regret ever being born, and being born into royalty for that matter. I'm a monster who lives with this endless guilt of taking a life just to survive.

I've always been envious of humans for their ability to perish naturally after a period of time. I am sick and tired of this not-so-great eternal life.

I have nobody apart from Jack who is the closest thing to a friend. Nobody who genuinely loves me since mom's dead and the subjects are either lustful because of my 'beauty' as they put it or terrified of my brutal father.

He is known far and wide as the most ruthless king to ever walk the surface of the earth. I mean who doesn't know the king who doesn't only kill but slaughters as if it were a sport, the king who makes other kings quiver with just one look?

Trust me when I say I'm not exaggerating. I've seen him do it with my own eyes and I have to continue his legacy as his heir and next in line for the throne.

I have decided to take a stroll around the kingdom to clear my head. My personal bodyguard, Zach attempted to tag along but I brushed him off. I didn't need company right now.

As I walked, I came across two ladies both passing me seductive glances and one giggling like there is no tomorrow. They both bowed uttering greetings to which I gave a curt nod, my face expressionless.

They continued their journey but I heard them whisper among themselves something along the lines "oh what a beauty he truly is" one remarked. "I wish he would be mine," said another. I rolled my eyes at their banter and continued my walk refusing to pay any more attention to them.

I was so lost in thought, that I didn't realize I'd already crossed the border until I felt something petite and warm crash into my huge frame. I lost my footing and rammed straight into her, effectively tackling her to the ground. Our heads bumped into one another and both of us let out a groan, but I was glad I managed a hand on the ground so I wouldn't crash her under me. She frowned as she rubbed her head. She was so close. I could move an inch and our lips would touch.

Electrifying sparks run throughout my body from our contact. My long-dead heart seemed to awaken as it began to thud hard against my rib cage in rhythm with hers. Her body fit perfectly against mine as if we were made for each other...

I looked down to meet the most enchanting forest green eyes peering into my blue ones curiously and slightly... impatiently.? It was then that I realized I was still on top of her. I scurried to my feet, offering my hand. She grabbed her backpack before taking it. Her earlier action conveyed that she was a student.

Being a gentleman, I needed to apologize no matter who is at fault. "I'm sorry... I wasn't looking and now look what I've done" she beat me to it.

I suppressed the urge to burst into uncontrollable laughter. She looked so damn cute with a panicked expression gracing her delicate features.

"It's fine, happens all the time anyway." I shrugged nonchalantly which is very true. Some ladies are so shamelessly desperate that they would do anything; absolutely anything to have physical contact including intentionally bumping into me.

Why? So they can have something to brag about I'm guessing.

"Are you hurt?" I asked stepping closer to examine her carefully, concern evident in my voice. Her eyes darted away from mine. Her lashes fluttered, unconsciously rubbing her arm as she looked everywhere but me. She shook her head indicating a 'no' making me sigh in relief.

Blood began to rush to her cheeks painting them a deep shade of red, obviously nervous. It was then that I felt my teeth elongate, finally conscious of the fact that this human standing in front of me has the most compelling; mouth-watering scent ever.

I quickly averted my gaze to assume absolute control over my body. I could feel my iris alternate from its original ocean blue to pitch black at an alarming rate.

The burn in my throat became more unbearable by the second.

When alas I'd finally secured enough self-restraint, I returned my gaze to hers.

As soon as we made eye contact, the ferocious need to suck her dry disappeared completely without a trace. She was just too innocent; too perfect to be harmed in any way.

Long blonde hair cascading down to her waist in waves, dark long eyelashes somewhat hiding her captivating eyes, pointed nose, bow-shaped lips, slender goddess-like body clad in a slightly worn out white tank top, and pale blue jeans accentuating her curves anyway. Her porcelain skin glistened in the sunlight, she was simply... breathtaking.

I found myself unable to look away so I stood there drinking her in as if to memorize; staring at her like a creep.

"I'm gonna...go," she said awkwardly after what seemed like forever even though it had only been a couple of minutes.

Oh Gawd, even her voice is the most beautiful I've ever heard.

She flashed me a small smile, gave me the 'peace' sign, and then off she went trotting down the street without looking back.

I shook my head once she was out of sight finally snapping out of my daze.

I chuckled, I mean who even does that?

I heaved a deep sigh and turned to head back to the palace.

As soon as I was in my chamber, I headed to the bathroom to take a quick cold shower. I changed into comfortable black sweatpants and a matching t-shirt.

After tossing and turning for several hours, I pull the covers off myself and climb out of bed. I got to my library and took out a random book.

After a lot of futile attempts to divert my attention, I decided to head to my secret room underground. Finally embracing the fact that I'm not gonna get any sleep tonight.

I turned on the lights and the refreshing scent of paint and wood greeted me, making my insides bubbly with excitement.

This is the one place I get to be me. No longer was I the prince of a vampire kingdom with all the restrictions that come with the title. I was just... me. Kayden. And I was free.

I looked at my collection of finished paintings with admiration and wondered if they would ever be displayed for the whole world to see, to admire.

I took a paintbrush, dipped it in a can of paint, and began my work. My hands moved skillfully bringing to life the image that has been plaguing my thoughts since I'd laid eyes on her.

Finally done, I set the paintbrush down and caressed her cheek painfully slowly.

Oh, how I wish you would be mine and I yours...