Page 19 of Petals and Fangs

“They do call themselves ‘the rebels’ for a reason, Mr. Rothschild.”

“Tell me about it,” I scoff.

“They believe vampires should feast on humans. Their leader is a descendant of an ancient vampire dynasty. I don't think a couple of drugs and a vegan lifestyle would placate him.”

“I am aware of that, Alfred. It is crazy how we got involved in this so fast. Maybe this is but a plot to destroy us, the Rothschild company. Or maybe it is a plan to force us to turn back into the dark side and start feasting on humans.”

“Or both.”

“We have to be careful.”

“We are doing the best we can, boss. It would be best if you dealt with the FDA first. Do you agree?”

“It is all so clear now, Alfred. The FDA wouldn't be after us if it weren't for the false accusations concerning our products.”

“Do you think the rebels are behind that?”

“We will look into it.”

“It does not make any sense. Why not attack us directly instead of getting us involved with federal agencies?”

“Where is the fun in that, Alfred? If they want our downfall, they need to start from within. They want us to be under the government’s scrutiny to use the Rothschild power to their advantage.”

“It is best that you deal with the FDA first. Those lousy freaks will eventually have their time.”

“I tell you what, Alfred. Have our data manager review the profiles of our latest clients. If there is anything suspicious, and I know there will be, report back to me as soon as possible.”

“What are we looking for?”

“For a client with a name that is similar to an ancient vampire dynasty, or any suspicious purchases. I am sure you got the eyes for that, Alfred.”

“I'm on it. What about Ms. Snow.?”

“Lily. What about her?”

“She won't be involved in this, will she?”

“She will be eventually. But with minimum details.”

“But- but Mr. Rothschild- you can't.”

“Don't worry, Alfred. I can protect her. I will protect her. She won't even know the risks she is going to face. She won't know of the company’s secrets, just the challenges it takes to do a project in it.”

“If you say so.”

“Have you informed the lawyer about our meeting? It must be tonight,” I ask.

“Yes, Mr. Rothschild. Anything else?”

“Make sure our regular products are being sold till we create new formulas. We still need to accumulate wealth while dealing with this mess.”

“We are doing the best we can, Mr. Rothschild. Our products are working on our loyal customers.”

“I am afraid they won't work for too long, Alfred. Vampires need blood. We need blood. We can't sedate our desires and call it a day for humans. Sooner or later, the effects will go away, and we will begin craving human blood all over again.”

“Some of us don't feed on humans.”

“Oh yes, the vegetarians. Animal blood is not sufficient, Alfred. It never is.”

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