She lost herself in the music as she closed her eyes and tipped her head back to wash her face in the surreal glow of the club lights. It was an unusual sensation to lose herself in dance and music. Cheryth near felt as if she was cheating on a lover. Art. Painting and Sculpting, even sketches and drawing were her beloved. This seemed like a sin.

Her Beloved. Yes that was her passion, her talent, her gift. Her Beloved was Art. It was in her blood as if she was predestined for such greatness.

The vampire opened her eyes as the realization sank into her. How long had she been lying to herself?

Forever and a Day.

She kept on telling herself that she knew that Art was her Beloved but it was not so. Her Beloved lived, Her Beloved was Alive and real... as Alive as she was at least.

It seemed like only yesterday...

Cheryth had become adjusted to being a governess. Despite her yearning for freedom and single solidarity she became fond of the children. It didn't mean that Cheryth was seeking a respite to plan a future into motherhood. The children were a sign of life, and even in Cheryth's graceful aging past maidenhood she found such something to treasure. No one could live forever.

"You do well with them. I was worried when they suggested you as a governess but I see they made the right choice. So beautiful..."
"Pardon me sir, yet I believe my looks are not of a benefit to my skills with the children."
"Oh but they are... in my eyes."

Horrified she took a step back and another until she hit the wall. In a corner. Cornered like an animal. Cheryth would not give the man the pleasure of letting him see her fear. Not even when he cuffed her across the face when she struggled and fought. Her nails had scratched his flesh but it was not enough to fend off the man's advances.

A struggle as fabric tore. So this was how it was going to be. How it would end. As any young woman she had daydreamed of sweeter loses of maidenhood. A close of eyes and she prayed.

The pounding on the door and a clearing of throat sounded like salvation.

"Sir..."
"What is it Thomas?!? Can't you see I'm busy?"

Thomas flickered a sympathethic glance to Cheryth but said nothing. He wasn't allowed. They both were silenced.

"Forgive me sir. There is a young gentleman at the door asking for you."
"Tell him I'm Busy!!! I don't have the time for this nonsense."
"He refuses to leave..."

Cheryth knew by the frustrated sound that she was safe. For the time being. She waited until he left before moving to the window. A press of palm to the window before bringing it open to reach out into the night. Giving in to the Darkness as she gazed within its dark confines.

Looking down in that sweet dark she saw the man standing upon the front step. Before Thomas could escort him inside she saw the man look up and meet her gaze. A knowing smile on his lips as he tipped his hat in acknowledgement. Her Salvation. He would save her from this place... maybe not tonight, but soon. She knew it to be true, she believed it. Thus it would be. He was her Salvation...

He was her Beloved.

Cheryth pushed her way through the crowd to escape the club. She sought the comfort found only within the embrace of Darkness. She walked with grace and beauty now as she lost herself again to the night.

Despite the lies she told herself, she sought him. As she always had. As she always would. Thus it would be.