Page 107 of Shadows of Eternity

“He never said anything.”

“He wasn’t sure what it was. Some people are extra sensitive to the supernatural.”

Holding Leia’s hand, he transported them to her apartment.

Inside, she kicked off her shoes, then wrinkled her nose as the stink of rotten food assailed her nostrils. “Whew! I need to clean the fridge.”

Rohan laughed softly as he gathered her into his arms. “Later.”

“But the smell!”

“Later,” he said again, his voice softly entreating.

“Later,” she agreed, and gave herself into his keeping.

Leia stared at her reflection in the mirror, pleased beyond words that she could see herself. All the myths and legends said vampires had no soul and therefore cast no reflection. Another old wives’ tale, Rohan had assured her.

It had taken two weeks to find a church and a suitable date, and another week after that to have her dress altered. Orderinga cake and flowers had been easy, since she didn’t need a huge, fancy cake or any exotic blooms.

But, finally, the day—or night—arrived.

“You look gorgeous,” Janae said.

“Thanks. So do you.”

“I can’t believe my little girl is getting married,” Cynthia said, sniffling.

“Mom, please don’t cry.”

“You look so lovely,” her mother said, setting Leia’s veil in place. “You’ve always been beautiful but now there’s something about you … a kind of glow.” She bit down on her lower lip. “Does it have anything to do with what you’ve become?”

“I don’t know, Mom, but I think it has more to do with the man I’m marrying.”

There was a knock at the door and an unfamiliar voice advised them it was time.

“I wish you every happiness,” Janae said. She picked up her own flowers and handed Leia the bridal bouquet.

There was another knock and her father and brother poked their heads in.

“Are you ready?” her father asked.

Leia nodded.

“You look pretty good,” Luke said, with a wink. “Try not to trip on your way down the aisle.”

Leia made a face at him as he took their mother’s arm and left the room, followed by Janae.

“I’m so nervous,” Leia remarked, taking a last glance in the mirror. “And I don’t know why.”

“Brides are supposed to be nervous,” her father said, with a faint smile. “Are you sure about this?”

“A hundred and ten percent.”

“All right, then,” he said, a note of resignation in his voice. “They’re waiting for us. Remember, if it doesn’t work out, your room is always waiting.”

Knowing he meant well, Leia kissed him on the cheek. “I love you, Dad. Please be happy for me.”

“If you’re happy, I’m happy,” he said, as he took her hand and gave it a squeeze. “Here we go.”

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