Chapter three

A fiction novel

by

S. I. Tkachuk

___________________________________________________________________

Crimson Blood

“Mutation”

All rights are reserved

(Not official translation)

The Abstract

Quot; Crimson Blood. Mutation" is a fiction novel, the first part of the cycle of 5 books - the story about pure and eternal love. It is intended for readers interested in mysticism, but prone to romanticism.

To A girl from a poor family gives the chance to spend one year in a foster family in America. Emma, without hesitation, gathers her things and begins to realize her dream, seeking for a better life. In a foster home Emma falls in love with the son of the owners, not suspecting that communion with him will make her for a creature from the world of black magic, of which she previously heard, but did not believe in the real presence.

According to readers, “the book takes us into the world of unseen opportunities, the love and friendship. When you start to read the book, you cannot even imagine, what will happen next, and how will it end? The plot draws, and reading this book is a pleasure, especially for those who enjoy science fiction!”

Chapter one

The story began at night in July 1657. From the little house, situated on the edge of the village, came cries of a woman, it was a difficult birth. Suddenly on the street appeared a handsome man in a long black cloak. The warm summer wind shook his shoulder-length black hair. The man stood and quietly watched on the house, and then he suddenly heard the sharp cry of a kid. A few minutes later, the wooden door opened and the low woman with gray hair came out on the street. The woman looked angry at the stranger.

- Come in, she is calling you, - the old woman told to the man. He came closer to the door and already wanted to enter, but the woman grabbed his arm.

- I didn’t like this, - answered the man hard with a hoarse voice.

- If Annabel will not survive, I will curse your whole clan, you will remember your entire live, how dishonored my family, - said the old woman stared in the man’s face and then released his hand. The man came in the house unwillingly, opened the door to a small room and saw his beloved lying in the blood on a bed with the crying baby on her breast.

- Sam? –whispered a beautiful girl with trembling voice, while the stranger crossed the threshold of the room. She was an extraordinarily beautiful brunette with the long hair and the pale skin. Her scarlet lips and eyelashes, which are more similar to the veil, only added to her image. Annabel was very beautiful and Sam looked at her not lift his eyes.

- Annabel… forgive me; I made a mistake in my choice… I'm sorry that it happened, - said the man coldly. To the surprise, he did not show any feelings, no regret, no joy, the man was cool in a conversation. His skin was paler walls in the house, and his eyes dark as night.

Annabel was only sixteen years old. Give birth to the child at that age, and without a marriage was a great shame. The man looked much older than she, but the girl loved him very much.

- Sam, - said seriously Annabel and took his arm, - you must promise me!

- What should I do? - the man asked coolly. The kid didn’t cease to cry.

- Sam, we have the child now, the boy, - said Annabel softly, - our child looks like you, as like as two drops of water. Take the baby into your own hands, please, he is your son. We call him Christian and he will be the most handsome boy in the world, - continued Annabel and gave the kid to Sam, the baby, when turned up in reliable hands of his father, immediately stopped crying.

- He's really looks like me, - whispered Sam indifferently. - Hmm... well, hello Christian Gonzalez, I am your daddy.

- Promise me! That you will give Christian your love and care, and if ever need to save his life, you will give to our son an eternity, - gently spoken the young woman and closed her eyes from the pain.

- I can give you the same! – proposed the man and kept his eyes on the child, but not got a reply, - I promise, - swore Sam.

The man took a deep breath and his eyes filled with darkness, he realized that Annabel died. Sam only slowly went closer to the bed and kissed her on the forehead and lips, then he went out into the street with the child in his arms, in which the kid sweetly slept.

- Forces of the sky, the soul is one, enter in the Vampire, let my strength will give the life, - spoke Annabel’s mother, while Sam came out from the house.

The old woman stood on the doorstep and watched what was going on. Beside her a black raven sat down on a wooden fence, and the white shadow appeared out of nowhere and joined the body of the man. He fell to his knees, cried out with the pain, as if a huge beast. Annabel’s mother returned to him his soul. Sam turned around and saw the empty eyes of the old woman. As for the raven, it transformed into ash immediately and after this the old woman fell down to the ground.

…

- Happy birthday Christian, - spoke his father slowly, when went into the room.

- Thanks dads, it's hard to believe, I am already twenty-four. Years go by so fast that I think I will have no time to do all that I want, - hardly spoke a young man to his father, lying in the bed.

- You will have a lot of time to do all, that you want Christian, - continued Sam quietly.

His father knew that in the village there was no one alive left, and Christian was waiting for the same fate, because people were dying one after the other. Unknown illness mowed all without exception.

His son, already second week, are lying and do not get up out of the bed, he is not aware that he is dying, because Christian is hoping for the future.

The Gonzalez was very respected and rich. But even the best doctors could not help to Christian. Sam remembered his promise, but still doubted. He was left with no other choice, he does not want this kind of life, as he has to his son, but if he fails to do so, the loved son would die as a human forever, and another monster reborn in him, like his father, but more powerful. Sam’s hands trembled slightly as he tried to hide his excitement.

After the death of Annabel, Sam changed very much, he devoted all of these years to Christian’s education. But, he doesn’t want to make his son to a vampire. It's better to die, than to be a monster like his father. To live forever, to kill, to crave the human blood, and to have feelings, which can destroy you, which killing you with every murder of the human, because you feel all things in thousands times stronger, this is not a gift, it is flour. No, Sam does not like this; he looked at Christian and could not make the choice.

Christian grew like a very handsome guy and all girls dreamed about such groom like he. Sam’s son was well-mannered and rich. But his father didn’t want that his son will marry. And Christian still did not find a decent Lady, because he wanted to meet a shy and a plain girl.

It was already dark and Christian still lay in his room and talked in his sleep. Christian had a fever. The maid brought a bowl with the cold water and laid a damp cloth on his forehead for somehow to relieve his agony. The door opened and his father entered in the room, the man suddenly looked at the maid and she quickly left the room.

- I have a gift for you, my dear! The gift which your mother wanted to give to you, - whispered Sam to Christian and leaned over the bed. He's very worried, because he did not want to do this. The father didn't want to turn his son into the vampire, but Sam made a promise to Annabel. He kissed Christian on the forehead and sighed deeply. Veins on his face filled with dark red blood, eyes became black, and with a crash on teeth grew white fangs. Sam knelt and bit Christian by the neck, and bit through his wrist. Then Sam put his hand to son’s mouth, and gave to drink his blood.

Christian felt a missing element on the taste and with the great pleasure sunk deep into the father's hand that wasn’t able to stop. When Christian ended to drink the blood, the terrible heat spread throughout the whole guy’s body, his bones ached, eyes filled with the blood. As for Sam, he stood there quietly and waited for the end of mutation, then took out a tube and poured the contents, like the red wine, in the son’s throat. Christian's body covered by dark-crimson veins, his eyes changed their color from red to black, the skin became paler, his hair got sparkle, and lips lost their natural color.

- I gave you immortality, you will live forever! Christian you will have a lot of time to do all, that you planned, my dear, - said Sam proudly, but deep in his soul, which returned to him the old witch, Sam was not proud of this step, but the choice was made, and this choice now can’t be changed.

- Who are you? - asked Christian when he got over it.

- I am still your father, the oldest vampire in the world and my name more than known – Samuel! Eat! – said Sam and the maid led a young girl in the room. Father bit her neck and threw the lady to Christian’s bed. - This hybrid is for you, I have to keep the promise, - he continued coolly.

Christian made a light breath and his black eyes found orange stains around his eye pupils. The smell of blood, which flowing down on the girl’s neck, drove him mad. Christian growl like a big animal, and sunk deep into the neck of the hybrid.

Chapter two

2013, USA, Roanoke, VA.

«An idiot’s dream has come true»! Yes, perhaps, this is a truth, because I really want to study in America and not only study but also to live.

Many Russian ladies are dreaming to find a foreign husband, but I was luckier and won in the contest. For me it was a little unexpected, because I was not the best student of the University. But now I have the opportunity to continue my training in one of the best colleges in America.

Of course, to split up with my family was very hard for me, but my parents supported me and told that I need this chance, because I can change my life for better. Of course, I agreed, and on the next day packed all my things, though this was not necessary, because the Dale will give me everything I need. But I, out of habit, took with me things for all occasions.

“If you want to change something in this life, start with yourself!” Perhaps my slogan gets under way, because I change my life dramatically. Next year I must to live and study in Roanoke, Virginia. I know a little about this town, but I like the fact that it is the largest city, the commercial and cultural center of the surrounding areas of Virginia. This is nice because I really want to get into a normal city, not by Godforsaken village.

And so, I'm driving in a taxi toward to my dream. The road seems long and the highway is surrounding by the dense forest, which beckons me to it, and I have a feeling that I disappear in its majestic beauty! The sky tightened with stiff gray clouds to the horizon, through which I do not see the sunlight. On the pavement I see passers-by, who are not different from me: the ordinary people, who are wearing simple clothes, their movement do not attract attention, they may pass in a crowd. The city seems gray and frankly, even a little frightening. Passers-by turn round, when our taxi goes past them. I feel myself uncomfortable.

When I am looking for passers-by, I realize that all bright clothes, which I got with me, I will not wear, because don't want to stand out. Yes, most of my clothes are summer things and judging by the weather, in Roanoke is already deep autumn, rather than the end of August. This is my first impression, but perhaps such weather here not for long and soon I will be able to enjoy the hot sun and can relax.

I can’t believe that it’s happen with me in real life. To say honestly, I'm not lucky, and that I won the competition without problems, was the shock for me. It's like a fairy tale for Cinderella.

My taxi stops near the big red building. Yes, I'm very happy because I will live in the rich family. On the one hand I am happy, but on the other hand, I do not know how to behave with them.

I grew up in an average Ukrainian family. My parents worked in the factory, and got not much money, but we had all that we need. I studied at normal school and not in the best University of our city. But, we were happy. Would be nice to live in the family, which have different social status and habits.

- How much? – I asked the taxi driver, rubbing two fingers on my right hand.

- Nothing, the Dale already paid, - replied the black man very bad on Russian. I think he has a lot of Russian clients.

I'm getting out of the car, stop on the track and carefully look around. The taxi driver takes out my luggage and he is away.

All houses in the neighborhood are in keeping with each other. I think it is a rich area of the town. The expensive black car is parking near the house, as we say in my country "inomarka". About this type of car the ordinary Ukrainian man can only dreams. You will save up for the new car all your life and never buy such, because it is very expensive.

I am taking my suitcase and going toward the home, before I can say Jack Robinson the door opens. Two people are going out from the house and I give a deep sigh.

- Hello, my name is Emma or Emily, I am from Ukraine, – it was easy, standard phrases for conversation. In principle, I know English well, but I am not able to talk freely. The laziness always wins the day. I'm good only in the everyday topics, not more.

- Good day Emily, nice to meet you. I’m David and this is my wife Kate, we waited for you. You are welcome to our house; can I help you to bring your packages?

He said, of course, faster than I am, but I understand him, and even a little happy that everything are going so well. I have a feeling that there is no colloquial barrier between us. I nod my head in agreement and David takes my bag and going to the house, I am following him.

They are a very beautiful couple; they seem are in keeping with each other. He is a tall brunette with the posh smile and he is a muscleman. David is a dream of every woman. His wife, Kate, also a beautiful, she is a blonde with long fluffy hair that fell down on her shoulders in waves, she has a perfect figure, white teeth and the unique light step, which is more like a flitter of butterfly. Their skin is too pale, as if they do not like to sunbathe in the Sun.

Against the backdrop of this family, I look quite terrible. My figure is standard, I am not a model, I've never been a slim, and my height is only a meter sixty-five. I have long dark brown hair, big brown eyes and thin lips, bronzed skin and in my twenty-three years I have a problem-prone skin on my face. There is only one thing that I like in my appearance it is a perfect smile and beautiful teeth. Yes, and I am the owner of smart breasts, but sometimes I hate the last.

In The Dale appearance I like the color of their eyes, they are dark-brown, the pupils on eyes are invisible, and only a dark orange stains separate pupils from other part of eyes. On the one hand it's beautiful, but on the other it is unusually. I think they wear lenses.

- Welcome dear to our house! It will be yours house now, and feel yourself at home. You're now a mistress, because I am not the good one, - said Kate with very tender and soft voice.

She has the most beautiful voice I have ever heard, it is like a music, which you want to listen without stop.

- Come on, I'll show you your room, you need a little rest from travel, - she continued.

-Yes of course, thank you, - I replied politely.

- Wait a minute, I glance at my dish masterpiece, - Kate smiles and disappears behind the arch. David carries my luggage to the second floor, and I look around. I sense a very sweet smell of some dish from the kitchen. Probably Kate prepares it for my arrival.

I am very happy that I understand them well, but it is still not difficult. I like everything; it seems that I was destined to live here. Every minute which I spent in America wakes up in me the feeling that this is my native town, as if I was abroad and returned back.

The hall in the house is a huge. There are beautiful curtains on the windows near the door, which decorated with different flowers; on my left is a large arch, where I can see a big living room with the milk leather sofa. To the right of me is the kitchen, but I do not have time to see it because suddenly Kate appears and leads me on the second floor, taking my hand.

I am ascending a wooden staircase, which is very nicely decorated. And still feel like I am in a fairytale. The house is very beautiful. On the walls hang various pictures, portraits of their children, some of them drawn by pencil. The walls painted in the beige tone, and all in the house are in keeping with each other. All furniture and decor is very modern and tastefully arranged. The second floor consists of only four rooms, one of which, I think for guests. My room is the first in the corridor.

- Now it's your room. It was Mary, my youngest daughter, she doesn't live with us, because has her own family now, - said Kate and is opening the door to the room. I see that Kate misses for her daughter.

- How often she visits you? - I asked for help the conversation on.

- Rarely, they come to us only on holidays, but this is not very often. I want that we all will live together, but that's not possible, - she replied sadly. I felt uncomfortable that I asked her about it. Who is made my tongue said this?

To communicate with Kate is very easily for me, as if we have known each other since childhood. I think she attaches people to herself by kindness, her charming smile and the beautiful voice.

- You can arrange the furniture as you like, because now it's your room, and you can do whatever you think is necessary and convenient for you. If you need my help just call me, and we'll create coziness together, - her eyes lit up with interest.

- Thanks, but I like this room. You have a very nice house and cozy room; it’s more than I can hope for.

- I'm glad that you like it. Have a rest and closer to five coming down to supper.

- Ok, Miss Kate thanks again.

-You can call me Kate, - she smiled, then turned round and closed the door behind her.

"There's nothing to move in this room, of course, it is bigger than my previous, but not enough for moving a huge double bed in another corner," – I thought, and starting to unpack my things.

In search of wardrobe, I discover a large dressing room; it is so big that I can put down the whole family’s clothes in it. There are a lot of beautiful dresses and suits of my size on hangers, and I immediately remember the words of the director “there is no need to carry a lot of things with you, because the Dale are very hospitable and will give you everything you need, even clothes”. I quickly hang my clothes on the free clothes rack and carry the suitcase inside the wardrobe. Then I am locking the door, and continue to examine my new room.

There is a big double bed in the middle of the room, near the window, which are situating in the front of the bed, also I see a full-length old mirror that catches my attention. Opposite the bed is a large chest of drawers and I quickly put on it a couple of my photos, for creating a comfort in my new room.

In the room dominate bedding colors, and it is a very pleasant to be in it. Walls painted in the color of an ivory. There are very expensive dark beige curtains on the window.

Near the wardrobe there is another door, behind which I did not expect to see the bathroom. This is just a dream. In our house there is only one bathroom and in the morning it was always busy with my younger brother. It's terribly ticked me off. But, now I have my own. Hmm... I cannot believe in it. The furniture in the room it is another story. It color is white and the whole set, I think, was bought from the same collection. Looking on the room you understand that it is a girl’s room.

I am going over what to wear to the supper as I don't know what to choose, and I am worrying a little about this. From the disorderly pile of clothes, I choose an easy black dress with lace, and think it goes very well for supper. Then I am taking a shower and ready for new impressions. I went down to the living room in a quarter to five.

- Good day Emma, - suddenly I heard someone voice, I quickly turn around, and there see a young guy who walks down the stairs behind me.

– My name is Christian; I'm the son of David and Kate. Sorry that I could not pick up you from the airport, I had problems in my business, - he holds out his hand to say hello to me, but I have lost the gift of speech.

He stares at me that I even cannot move. In my heart happen unexplained outburst, and it begins to beat faster. I feel that two spots of red appear on my cheeks.

Christian is a very handsome man, but it's not an ordinary beauty of which a lot of girls go mad, it is men's beauty, a charisma, a courage, which attracts like a magnet. He is the tall brunette, about 1, 80 meters or higher, with a perfect body, he is talking smoothly and charming. The open collar under an expensive dark costume, and a little unshaven face with dazzling smile, make him the image of the hottest macho in the world. It seems I fall in love!

-He-llo, - murmured I uncertainly.

I have never seen so handsome men, I want that Christian will become my boyfriend, and then all my friends will burn with envy. Yes, there is no harm in dreaming! I never had a long relationship, because wanted a serious guy, not a boyfriend for the one night, so it is why I was alone. There are no serious guys left in our time.

Christian holds out his hand again, and his skin is pale, like "snow", his face is overgrowing with bristles, but it is very sexy and gives him special thrill. Eyes are the same as David’s, with orange stains around the pupils. His eyelashes are thick and black, as his eyebrows. He is my ideal. Christian’s lips have not normal color, its look dead. I want to touch and warm them, and think he is a good kisser.

I'm breathing so often that I can't calm down. He probably understands everything, because every girl has such face as mine, when meet him at first.

- Let me kiss your hand, - Christian asked politely, and in the third time holds out his hand to me. I thought that princes do not exist in reality, to say truly I feel myself like a Lady of past centuries.

But as soon as he touches my arm, I take away my palm immediately, because feel the pain and cold. The light electric current goes through my body, and it is not a pleasant sensation.

I stand there, rubbing my hand from the pain, and I notice that my reaction is not surprising him and it is a little strange. Christian's hand is much cooler than mine, as it seems to me about ten degrees less from normal temperature, his eyes like the eyes of the cunning predator, which is waiting for the moment of the battle.

- I'm sorry, I didn't want to hurt you, - told he with forced smile, and after this I immediately forget about my pain.

His smile charms me, and I can't do anything with it. What's come over me? I really fell in love! It is horrible and not right! And how I will live with him under the same roof?

- Oh, you've already met? - Kate asked suddenly, appearing from the arch, which is leading into the kitchen.

I'm not expecting her appearance. Kate's eyes are excited; she maybe thinks that I'm with bad manners, because throw myself at her son.

-Yes, - I replied with a smile.

- Very well, supper is already on the table, let’s go into the dining-room, - she turns around, and we follow her. Christian moves back the chair and ask me to sit down, as it is often shown in the old movies.

I feel like two spots of red appeared on my cheeks, it's so awful. I feel as if I belong here.

Very stylish kitchen is passing into the large dining room and it is nicely furnished. In the middle of the dining room is a large table for eight persons. On the table there is beautiful white crockery, which put in form. I'm a little nervous, because I do not know what tableware I need to use and why so many glasses on the table?

The Dale dressed very elegantly, and their manners once again confirm that they are as we say «people of the blue blood».

On the walls hung a few pictures, in the corner of the room stands a huge vase with artificial flowers. There is even a little bar in the kitchen.

- Emily, tomorrow is your first day in the College, are you already prepared to study? I understand that it will be a little hard for you at the first time, especially with the language, but I think, you'll get used to it, - said Kate, destroying the silence in the house, because her son looks at me with devouring eyes.

- Yes of course, I think that I will adapt soon and be able to communicate as quickly as you, - answered I politely.

- Are you planning to continue your studies here or you are only on the one course? - asked David me. He looks at Christian and his son immediately turns away.

Frankly, they seem to me a bit closed and strange, but maybe because they have a different education and mentality.

I start to tell them about myself, that I may not be able to continue my education, as it is very expensive and my family will not be able to pay for the College. I thank them for what they provide the chance and take exchange students in their family.

The Dale listen me without interrupting, and it gives me a bit of confidence, of course, I am not too good in English, and Kate sometimes corrects me quietly, without disturbing my story, but I like it, because I should learn to speak correctly. Honestly, I'm happy only from the fact that I communicate with them. The Dale smile and sometimes laugh at my stories. They probably wonder how much energy I have? It is very hard to stop me.

- You're babbling, - said Kate smiling, interrupting my story.

- Am I tired you? Excuse me, please; you have needed stop me, because I can tell for a long time. Excuse me please again, - I blushed. The Devil, always I am telling one and all. This is my bad side, because I love to talk very much.

- Oh no, Emily, we are like to listen you, we never had so fun and interesting conversation in our home. You are our salvation! - continued Kate still with a smile on her face.

All this time Chris looks only at me, he is motionless, and even not blinking. I try not to keep my eyes on him too long, as it's dangerous for me, because I like him very much. They are all so beautiful, that I can look at them all day.

The evening passes even better, than I imagined. I'm helping Kate clean off the table and Christian with David go to the living room.

When I finished with the cleaning of dirty dishes, or rather the one plate as the Dale didn't eat anything, Kate sends me to rest and I wish all of them a good-night, and go up to my room.

- Behave yourself more natural, you know what I mean! - closing the door in my new room, I hear how Kate cries at Christian on the first floor, but I was so tired that are not able to eavesdrop on their disputes. Put on my pajamas and fall my face in a pillow, holding it by hands, then I close my eyes and slowly, slowly fall asleep with a smile.

Chapter three

- Emily, I want to tell you that... - swallowing, murmured Christian.

He comes closer to me and then holding near the window in his arms so tight that it is impossible to breathe. Why he is looking at me like that? From his sight my heart beats faster and numbs the whole body. I stopped breathing.

- Please, don't ruin this moment, - I whispered lower than Chris, looking at his eyes.

He is perfect and I am losing my mind. It doesn't just happen, Christian cannot be my, he is too good to be with me.

- But, I must tell you! - insisting, he improves the tone.

- Shut up! I just want to be with you, - I said, putting my head down on his breasts.

Suddenly Christian pushes me with all might. Everything happens in fraction of a second, - the broken window and I'm falling down together with the broken glass, then hearing the ringing of the alarm clock...

I flinch, it’s just a dream. Take my face by hands for somehow coming to myself after my experience, which I had in my dream. I am lying in the bed with closed eyes and scroll down yesterday's events in my head, my heart is beating very fast, and there is a feeling of the fear. It seems that the dream is real; I need not think about it and will try to forget. Get up sharply from the bed and open my eyes.

- Oh, my God, Chris, you scared me, what are you doing here? – In frightened I touch deeply my heart, and don't even notice that I speak in Russian.

Christian is standing near my bed motionless, and looking at me with the same cold expression, as in my dream. I have the screaming habdabs of it.

- I'm sorry Emma, again, I scared you, I really didn't want this, it just happened, because you don't turn off the alarm clock, and I thought you were asleep, I'm sorry again. I just wanted to wake you up, because you don't want to be late in the first day, - his voice is calm. He speaks slowly, as if he isn’t worry about the fact that I screamed at him and didn’t speak in English. It's amazing to have such a calm character.

- I need to change my clothes, I'll be ready in a few minutes, - I said, breathing heavily.

- Hurry up! I'll be waiting in the lobby, - he turns around and with slow steps passes along the room, then cunningly smiles and closes the door behind him.

Good that I'm sleeping in pajamas and it's scary to think how it would look. How he can came in the room without getting permission? He wanted specifically see my reaction or something else?

I put on my favorite pair of jeans and a shirt on the small button with roll up sleeves. Then took my own favorite flats shoes, no matter that in my new wardrobe there are a lot of new shoes, but it all on heel, Kate likes such type of shoes, she has a good sense of women's style, as not saying about me, I like to wear comfortable clothes. Perhaps, in the future I will change my style.

- I'm ready, - said I nicely, seeing Chris in the lobby.

He looks stylish and smells great. His cunning glance starts to frighten me. Why does he look so?

- Here is the key of the house; I cannot often to pick up you from the College. My father and mother come back later, so you have the run of the whole house. Try to remember the way to home, because maybe today you'll have to go by bus, - he still says in a flat voice, and it's amazing.

On the road near the house is parked an expensive car. It is a sport Ferrari of a bright red color.

- Is it your car? - I asked with surprise, though probably be surprised in this case is not right, because The Dale have the large house, an expensive clothes and good manners, what is saying about their wealth. Probably they are millionaires.

- Do you like it? It is father’s gift on my twenty-fifth birthday, - he easily opens the door for me. - Belt up, we'll drive very fast, - smiling, he continued.

I can't tear my eyes from his pale face and sparkling smile. «Emily gets yourself in hands», I need to calm down, because with him my heart break out from my chest.

We are driving very quickly, and I feel how an adrenaline plays through my body, this is really cool. We are not talking, I sometimes look on Christian, and he is serious and watching on the road. I am driving again through the dark forest, which met me, when I came to the city, and it fascinates and attracts me anew. I am examining the high trees and firs and imagining how will pass my first day in the College.

Today the weather is wonderful - the sun is shining and white clouds are floating on the sky. I like such weather, as if I am at home again.

The auto stops, and all my thoughts disappear somewhere. I look at Christian, he smiles and gets out of the car and opens the door for me, holding out his hand.

- Thank you Christian, you're a real gentleman, - I try to please him, and smile where it is possible.

- Just Chris, I like the way you called me this morning, nobody ever shorten my name, - he again puts on a smile on his face. - I don't promise that can pick up you back, so there are a lot of buses that pass by our house, it will be not difficult to come back home. Yes, and one more thing, it’s your new mobile, Kate gave it for you. If you will need something, you can call to her or me; our numbers are already filled in your phone book.

- Thank you Christ... Chris, you are very kind to me, thank you very much, - I’m looking at him with curiosity, which will be his further reaction? But he is calm. Chris comes closer to me and kisses me on the forehead.

His cold lips injected into me an adrenaline and I have the screaming habdabs on my skin, the heart beats in a hundred times faster, I stopped breathing and standing like a statute, without movement.

He kissed me, and this is not a dream! Is it really happens with me? I never had such feelings like this before. Maybe it is love at the first sight?

- Ok, I gotta go, - he said gently and in a couple of seconds, drives away on his Ferrari.

He behaves himself as if he likes me. I can't understand what he feels and how to behave with him? Christian always smiles. His smile is gorgeous, maybe, many of girls lose their ground, when see it.

I do not understand why he kissed me, may he really likes me? Twirling a new smartphone in my hand, I am giving a deep sigh.

- Well, now I'm cool, - I muttered to myself. Suddenly, someone pushes me, and the folder with the documents fall out of my hands together with a new smartphone.

- I'm so sorry, I didn't want to push you, just a little late and you need to hurry up to the lecture too, because professors do not like this, - said the stranger, raising my documents from the land.

He is the tall blond man, his thick hair was the color of the sand and is not neatly arranged, he looks like a stylish guy. The stranger is muscleman, and his body attracts my attention. He is dress in jeans and a nice t-shirt, with black jacket. His skin is dark, like mine, eyebrows are straight as Christian’s, his lips have right shapes and natural color. He is another handsome man in this town, and if I will meet someone else like Christian and this guy, I will go mad.

- Take this, please, - said the stranger, laughing, probably from the fact that I don't say anything, and staring at him. The dimples on his cheeks adorn his face when the stranger laughs. He is the one of perfect guys. - My name is Daniel, I forgot to introduce myself.

- Hi Daniel, my name is Emily, I'm new in this College, - last words broke out of my mouth with reluctance.

- You speak with an accent, are you a foreigner? Where are you from? - with surprise asked my new friend, if it is an appropriate name for him.

- I am from Ukraine, I guess you never heard about this country, - I said with confidence.

- Yes, I heard! - he smiled again. - Are you on which faculty?

- The English language, fourth course.

- So we are now classmates, you are welcome in our midst, let's go faster, Professor Nelson does not like when students are late, - he takes me by the hand and drags in the College. His hand as cold as Christian, are all people cold-blooded here?

The College is great, there are a lot of students and it is not usual for me. I examine everything very quickly, because Daniel runs fast, and I think not to bump into someone. The bell is ringing, when we are coming to the lecture room.

- Good morning Professor Nelson, - said Daniel.

- Good morning, - not very friendly answered the Professor. - What the visitor did you bring to us with you Daniel? - he asked curiously.

- Hello, my name is Emma Allison, I'm a new exchange student, - replied I, not focusing my eyes on the Professor.

He is an old, but very interesting man about fifty years of age. The Professor dressed in a brown suit with patent-leather shoes. He has very short curly gray hair, grey eyes and thin lips, but these features don't make him ugly, and even a very attractive man. On his table there is a briefcase of the same color as a suit. The Professor takes off his glasses and wiping them with a handkerchief, and then looks at me.

- Yes, I was warned about you, sit down and in the next time please don't be late, - seriously continued the Professor.

- Come on, - whispered Daniel.

While we walk up to the last row because there is no free places left, all students looking on me from up and down. But I choose right clothes, and it is please me that I will not be a white crow.

We sit down, I'll take out my notebook and trying to take notes of the lecture, but suddenly the door opens and a beautiful girl come in the auditorium.

- Mrs. Parker? I am glad that you decided to resume the training, but you're too late again, please stay after pairs on the additional occupation, and sit down on the free seat, - angrily ordered the Professor. His tone was displeased; I would not like to be on the place of this woman.

The young and very beautiful girl sits down in front of me, on one row below. Her figure is perfect; she wears black silk dress and smiles at me, covering up her black eyes with the veil of her long eyelashes and pronounces a phrase:

- There's only the one problem in this city.

Her voice sounds convincing, calm and confident, but I still don't understand to whom was address this phrase and what it meant?

When the bell is ringing, all students happily throw backpacks on their shoulders and go out from the lecture room. Daniel offers me to get acquainted with his friends, and we are going out too. My new friend leads me to guys, who are sitting on the bench not far from the College.

- Hi guys, I want to introduce you my new friend Emily, - he turned to me, smiling.

- Hi, – I greeted with the smile.

- You're the foreigner, - said with surprise the red-haired girl, who is sitting to the left of Daniel. - Nice to meet you, I am Catherine Stewart, the best Daniel’s friend.

She is a very beautiful, as for the red-haired girl, because usually such people have a lot of freckles across their face, and they are not very attractive, but as for Catherine, she is polarity. Her thick red hairs are wavy; lips have natural color, light eyes and beautiful eyelashes. The girl is tall and with a beautiful model figure, and also she is wearing feminine clothes, probably, from the last word in fashion.

- I am April, Catherine’s sister, - told the dark-haired girl with a polite smile, holding out my hand, - it's so good, that you will study with us, we will teach you, don't worry about it, - she seemed to read my thoughts, and this was I am really afraid, because cannot understand the greater part of their conversation.

But, April isn't like her red-haired sister. I can say that April is the normal girl. She have not very long hair, which are slightly covering her broad shoulders, and her height is lower about on 5 centimeters, she have thin lips and black eyelashes that look good on her pale skin. Her figure is standard, and she is dressed in the usual blue jeans and a sports jacket with a hood.

- My name is Joseph, I'm the boyfriend of Catherine, - said the tall dark-haired man.

He is not so beautiful, like Daniel, but not ugly. Joseph, I think, doesn’t like sport, because he has the standard body. Joe dressed well, as other guys, and has close-cropped hair, thick lips, and very rare emerald color eyes. In spite of that he looks not like Dan, Joseph also good, especially his green eyes, I have not seen such color before.

He holds out his hand and shakes it easily, then come to Catherine and whispers something in her ear. The smile from her face suddenly disappears, and Catherine looks at me with frightened. I feel myself awkward.

- I'm Anthony, April’s guy, very nice to see a new face for so many years in our town, so are you living here in Salem? - asked brown-haired man.

He looks like Daniel, the muscular guy with the beautiful smile. He has a slight long curly hair, the perfect body and the simple character. He is cheerful, I think, we can be friends.

I like their company, because have never met such beautiful people before. I guess their parents are very rich, and they can afford to look like this.

My reply is a little late as I'm still trying to properly build up a sentence.

- No, I live in Roanoke, in a foster family.

- Cool, - continued Anthony.

- Your hands are so cold, - I said laughing.

Each time, when they handed my hand, I felt the cold. It is not usual to have so cold skin.

- Yes, but you'll get used to it, - said Antony with the smile. – So, with whom do you live?

- Do not get at her! You will have time to ask all you want, I'll better go and show her the College, - interrupting their interest, Daniel takes my hand and drags me inside.

We spent a long time wandering around the corridors, looking into all corners. I am very lucky that I met Daniel, with him I feel myself easily and comfortably, as if he is my old friend.

Dan tells me about yourself, about student life, which is different from lives of our students in my country. I understand half of what he says to me, and I am catching only a few sentences. But, the break is end, and we again need to run to pairs.

The reaction of Catherine does not come out from my head all lessons and her gaze too, I am very interested in what Joseph said to her?

The first day is ending and I have a lot of new impressions and new friends. The bell is ringing and all students immediately run away from the lecture room. I say goodbye to Daniel, and he goes to his friends. I'm trying to remember a few moments from the previous lectures, but cannot clear remember anything.

I need to go home, - I whispered to myself, suddenly, the door opens and a beautiful girl, who was late on the first lesson, comes in the lecture room.

- Hi, my name is Jennifer Parker, - she said to me with a sly grin.

- Hi, - I guess that phrase was address to me.

- I get to know that you live with the Dale now, isn’t it? How is my Christian getting on? I have not seen him many years; maybe I will visit him today. You'll be my sister, - she still smiles and acting like a fool.

- I don't understand what you mean? - I answered with surprise.

- You will now and my sister too, I'm Christian’s girlfriend and we plan to get married, - I am shocked.

How, then his morning kiss and his looks at the table yesterday, what did it all mean? Speaking frankly, I am hurt. Such an ideal man is not for me, I'm really stupid, because must to guess that Christian have a girlfriend. Why am I so stupid? Such a handsome and rich guy like he, need to be with such woman as Jennifer.

My throat had dried up. Maybe, he treats me like a sister.

- I'm sorry I have to go, let’s talk some other time, - I said sharply, and threw the backpack on my shoulder.

- Wait, was I hurt you? - she takes my hand, and her face freezes. Jennifer’s hand as cold as Christian’s, they all fit together – style of clothes, manners, and even eyes, she is also beautiful, and there is no doubt that he is with her. – That’s impossible! – cried she angry, dropping out my hand.

I'm running out of the lecture room and go to the exit, then turn around, and see that Jennifer follows me, I speed up. My eyes fill with tears, because it hurts me. Again I fell in love not in the right man. Why am I so unlucky in love? Of course, who will be with me with such proportions?

Running out of the College, I see that Christian is waiting for me at the car, going up to him and say Hello again, but he does not pay attention to me, Chris looks at Jennifer.

- Get in the car! - he ordered.

I sit down, but I disliked his tone. It will be better if I went on the bus. Now I will be the witness of undesired events.

- Jane? Have you returned? I am glad to see you baby, - Chris said to her with a smile.

It is good that the windows in the car blacked out, and she is not seeing me. Christian drove not on his Ferrari, it is a normal car with the roof, and I suppose he have a lot of cars.

He talks modern with her, not like with me. And this image of macho suits him. I am sick at heart! I like him so much, but I am stupid, because fell in love with the wrong guy. I have no luck.

- I see that you are not so happy, isn't it?

- Why are you so rude dear? I just didn't expect you to see so soon. I remembered that someone planned not appear here as a minimum of five years, what happened with you my love?

- Miss you dear! – answered Jennifer and with an angry expression she looks at the window of the car, I turn away at once. I hate her presence.

- How you dare? You're my. You told her, who are you? She is a human! You have no right to do this with me. I came to you, and you knew that I'll be back! Her smell… Do you know who is she?

- Let's move away! - said Christian in the bad temper.

He drags Jennifer by the hand and seems Chris breaks her bones. But for Jane it makes no different.

They are dispute about something for a very long time, but I can only hear some of the phrases:

«You leaved me, and never belonged to me, Jane, you know this!». «She is not guilty». «I chose her, just try it and I will kill you!» - shouted Christian.

«Legion will know about her, and your daddy will be not happy too». «She is not for you!»

These phrases they are shouting very loudly, that it were not hard to hear.

The last two sentences, which said Jane, touched me. What did she mean? The Legion? I don't understand, well, maybe it's for the best, I don't want to meet this girl again, and certainly to talk.

Christian leave Jane, and get into the car a very angry, I am not risk to ask him about something.

- Jennifer is my ex-girlfriend, - he started to speak the first. - We have parted, or rather to say, she leaved me, because found another man. Honestly, I never loved her, and I had all trumps in my hand, when she left me! But now she want that I will be with her. It's all over! - Christian spoke these words with the serious expression.

He does not have the smile on his face that attaches me. He drives a car, like a real Schumacher, I'm even afraid of that we do not crash into something.

- What did she mean when she said that I'm the human and not for you? - I dared to ask.

- I chose you, and she saw it on your hand, Jane sees the future. Yes Emma, I like you. I can't answer on your question right now, but say that we are not living in that world; we live in the world, which is full of fear and where the darkness reigned!

Christian lost his mind! This is the first thing that took into my head. Darkness? Funny! Maybe he is in some kind of sect? It's more like the truth; I don't want to ask him more because I have the credo “curiosity killed the cat”! And who make me ask this? Darkness? Hmm...

The auto stops, I look out in the window and surprise at how we quickly come back home.

He opens the door and gives me his hand, which seems to me colder than usual. I get out of the car and follow after Chris. There is no one at home, as the light is not lit. In general it is a little strange that so rich people have no maids. If I will be rich I will have a lot of them.

- I'll give you the real love, an eternity, if you will want it! - murmured Christian with a pain in his voice, opening the front door for me.

Chapter four

- I'll go to change my clothes, - I said, entering in the house.

Chris says nothing and sits down on the sofa in the living room. Perhaps, he is thinking about the meeting with Jennifer. I go up to my room. To say honestly, this whole story is not pleasant to me, I have not seen Christian in this condition, heretofore he smiled to me.

I lock the door and sit down on the edge of the bed with a big shock. The real love, it's certainly cool, but how cans such the handsome and rich man falls in love with so poor and not an ideal girl? I don't believe to him. Christian can choose any model.

Suddenly, my new telephone rings.

- Hallo! Good evening Kate, - I answer the phone, trying not to worry.

- Honey, how was your first day?

- Well, I liked the College, I found many friends.

- I'm very glad, did Christian pick up you?

- Yes, he did! We are already at home.

- Thanks God! I worried very much, because I didn’t want that you came back to home by bus. Emily, today and all weekend we are not being at home, our old friends insist that we have stayed. So, we will arrive late on Sunday. Will you cope?

- Yes, of course, wish you to have a good time, I'll find something to do for the weekend. Will send my regards to Mr. David, - answered I, not showing that I am worrying about this.

- Well my dear, I wish you to have a nice weekend too, call me, if you will need something, and please call at any time of the day. See you soon!

- See you! - I rattle off, and put down the receiver.

One? With Christian? How? I'm in shock. Better shut myself in the room and not going out until Kate and David will return.

- Don’t push the panic button! – I said it aloud for calming myself.

I sigh heavily and go to the wardrobe, as I need to change my clothes. I think, that the light dress will suit for me and put it on. Going down to the first floor, where I notice that Chris also changed his clothes, but he is still sitting in the same position on the sofa.

- Parents will not be at home all weekend, - he said, not raising his head.

- Yes, I know it, Kate called me, - my voice is trembling with fear, because there are evil flashes of Christian look in my head. His words about the eternal love don't leave me. It is the fairy tale about the true and eternal love for children. I take a deep breath.

Suddenly, Christian sharply gets up and rushes up to me, if it can be called so, it was like he run to me very quickly. My heart starts beating so fast, as never before, I do not move, and feel a slight pain in the chest. We stand in silence about thirty seconds and then he asks:

- Let’s have a supper? - he smiles, as on the first day of our meeting, I look at him, but then avert my gaze.

- Christian...

- You need not be afraid! I will not hurt you and will never scream on you like on Jane. Don't think about it, she does not do anything with you, I will not allow it! - he says earnestly, pressing me against his body so close, that to think about something else except Christian is not possible.

My breathing becomes more frequent, and in the chest I feel, how my heart wants to break out, I can't resist to Christian. It seems to me that the temperature of my body rises to the critical. I do not feel the coldness of his hands which touch my face, when putting away a falling down my stand of hair. Oh, my God, I think I'm now going to burn up. I feel like the hot blood running through my veins, I can't describe my condition, because never had such feelings with any man.

- You're so beautiful, I never met the girl like you, - he looks at me with his charming eyes, touching my face, his skin is so soft, like velvet, and all of this is driving me crazy; is it true what he said? Is he really like me?

- Christian, - I whispered.

- Emma… can I call you Emmy? – interrupted me, Christian putting on his arm around my waist, - look at me, please. I want to see your charming eyes, I ask you, - he whispered with gentle voice, which evokes the desire in me to merge with his lips. I lose my head.

- Of course you can, - I said to him.

In my voice, he clearly understands that I am going crazy about him. I break out from his embrace, but can't think about something else except Christian.

- Are you hungry? - asked Christian with a sly smile.

- Yes, it would be nice to eat something, - I said, trying to calm down and reduce the beating of my heart, which still burns with the fire inside me. I turn away from Christian.

He takes me by the hand, and I feel again the coldness of his skin. We enter into the kitchen, I move away the chair, and sit down at the table. Chris comes to the refrigerator and takes out the juice and snack. They probably are not used to eat so late.

- You need not afraid me, I am not hurt you!

- I'm not afraid! - I said confidently.

- How was your first day in the College? - he asked, probably, out of politeness or of interest.

I started to tell him all that happened with me for the whole day: about new friends and acquaintance with Jane, but after the last words, Christian spirits are sagging, but I am immediately changing this topic of conversation to another.

- How old are you? – I asked with curiosity.

- Twenty - seven, - he gets up from the table and comes up behind me, bends over and whispers in my ear, - Am I not too old for you Emmy?

My heart begins to beat faster, why he does it? Is it the way, how he always wins girls?

- No Christian, you are not old for me, - I said with a trembling voice. He tries to say something else, but I quickly stand up from the table.

- Please, don't say anything, - I feel that I can't control myself. - I'm sorry, I must go, - he bites his lip, and this is exciting me.

An inner voice tells me that I need to keep myself in hands, but it is not easy for me.

- Good night, Emmy, sweet dreams, - he bends over to kiss me on the cheek, but I turn around, and go out into the hall.

- Good night, Chris, - I said softly, getting up the stairs, not turning around, because I do not want to meet with his gaze, of which I can’t to resist.

Closing the door, I fell on the bed, and can't understand what I feel? On the one hand I need to be happy, because Christian also loves me, but on the other, I know him only two days and perhaps it's only attraction. I still don't believe that he loves me. Is it really happen? It seems like a dream. I am falling asleep with the great difficulty.

Chapter five

All night I had a dream about Christian, and it is not strange because I think about him every minute. Today is Saturday and I needn’t to go to the College.

I take a shower, and then come down on the first floor, but I am not finding Chris at home, although his car is standing near the house.

- I need something to eat, - I said to myself.

I open the fridge and my eyes rounded with surprise. It is almost empty. What they are eating? Of course, I understand that no one is at home but, it would be good to care of the “foster daughter”.

I can die with hunger. Okay, I'll take what there is and put out of the refrigerator greens and cabbage, then starting to find the bowl and salt. I decide to open all cupboards in the kitchen, and begin from the corner, but when I open it, see a lot of sun block creams of the very strange company, maybe local.

- For what they have so many creams? - I asked myself.

Now it is clear why the Dale have so pale skin, because they use sun block creams. Why? Well, every man to his own taste!

In the lower cupboard I find olive oil and salt, but the bowl I am not able to find. Where are all plates? I guess Kate keeps it in another place. Take the glass plate for fruit from the table, spread out grapes and chop the cabbage and greens there.

Preparing the «light lunch», I go up to my room and decide to sort out the last of my bag, in which is lying the laptop, a couple of discs and small things. Suddenly, the doorbell rings and I'm going down to the first floor. Opening the door, I wonder very much.

- Jennifer? What are you doing here?

- Actually, I came to my beloved! - she said with displeasure.

- As I know, you are not together.

- Is he at home?

- No, he is not.

- You're lying, make way! - told Jane angrily.

I make a step aside and she is going to enter, but falls sharply on the floor, as if she bumps into something. Jane has a shock.

- It's not possible! How long do you live here?

- Recently, but what?

- Only owners of the house can invite me, you're not the mistress! What is happening? - she looks up at me with horror in her eyes.

Well, Kate told me that I am the mistress, and I have the right not to allow Jane to enter in the house.

- You know, Jane, I am not letting you come in the house, because I have the right to do this. And if you have problems with balance, I think you need to find the time for treatment, - I said, slamming the door. It was cool, I like this, hope Chris will not be offended.

I turn on the laptop and my favorite music player, because I'm not disturbing anyone and the house in full my disposal. The next track is my favorite, and I dance in the front of the mirror, singing to myself. Then remember my dream and imagine, how Christian kisses me, I feel it all again, my blood begins to boil from only one thought about him. I replay in my head all possible variants of the end of the yesterday evening.

The song ends, I turn around, and see that Chris is standing at the door, I stop in my tracks. After a few seconds turn back and look in the mirror, which is situating opposite the door and I do not see him in it.

Then I again turn around and Christian is still standing there like a statue, his face is cold, he does not move and looks at me. My pulse quickens, it seems I'm losing my mind, look again at the mirror, but it is still empty, only the open door, I am closing my eyes.

- You will never see me in the mirror, - Chris whispered.

I feel his breath behind me, and how his hands holding me around the waist, but I do not see his reflection in the mirror. I am standing without moving, there is just ravings in my head, it seems to me that I'm dreaming and all it's only a dream, but suddenly Christian turns me face to face.

- Emmy, you will never see my reflection in the mirror, I don't have it, - his eyes filled with fear.

He looks at me in anticipation of my reaction, but I'm still not moving, because I can't explain to myself how this is possible and is it happen in reality? I am touching his face and feeling the coldness of his skin, I understand that he is more than real. I look back in the mirror, in which I see only myself.

- Emmy...I'm a vampire..., - said Chris dryly. - Try not to think about it, I can't explain to you now, there is a time for all things. Please, just believe me, - he whispered with the trembling voice.

- Chris, - I said with horror in my eyes. I can't believe that it is possible!

- Emily, I'm ask you to be-lie-ve me, - Christian breathes very often, his body is trembling, he divides words into parts, as though it is hurts him. His lips are even darker than usual and I can't look through it. Christian’s eyes change its color to black and there are not the bright orange steaks around pupils anymore. They are like darkness!

A tear rolls down on his cheek but Christian does not stop to look at me. It is some sort of mysticism. I don't know how to behave in such situation.

We're standing and looking at each other a few minutes, which seem is endless.

- Get away from me! – I said with disgust.

I'm so scared, that I am pushing Chris away, and he at the same moment turns into a monster and flies through the large window of my room, which fortunately is open. He is going in the direction of the forest, crying so horrible that the heart stops.

This sound is like a cry of a huge bear or something like this. Outwardly he still resembles Christian – the man with pale skin, but with big black wings and his face and body in dark-blue, I can even tell black stains, which similar to veins. It is hard for me to pick up my words, because I can't concentrate and can’t say anything. Is he the vampire?

- It is impossible! It would be good if someone could explain to me all this, - I whispered, sigh deeply, and I think only about the one person - Daniel.

Suddenly a white mist dissipated over my room.

- I waited, when you will call me! I already began to doubt that I'm your angel, - said Daniel.

- You're kidding! - I screamed at him, - I will have a heart attack soon, why you can't come in the house like all normal people? - I'm so angry that I can't control myself, I'm yelling in Russian language, but Dan understands me. - Christian jumps out of the window, you appear with the mist! Get away off you; I’m clear out from this accursed city.

- Emma keeps your hair on! You will be one of us! - said Daniel confidently. - We are demons. I'm your angel!

Dan appeared as a true angel - beautiful tanned man with white and fluffy wings. He is dressed in gorgeous clothes, and looks very sexy. There is no doubt that he is an angel. But, how can I to believe in it?

- Cool... the vampire, an angel it is not funny, we are not in the theater, - I cried, gathering up my things in the bag.

- Emma, such world exists for a long time and Christian chose you. He wants to make you like he, - Dan convinces me of the truth of his words.

- I don't want to hear that, I'll leave this city, try to manage without me! I don't want to become a monster, drink the blood and fly, I like to be a human, and I don’t want to live a million years into the same image. I'm sorry it's not for me. I'm not going to die for living forever! - now Christian’s words about the eternal love become more than clear.

- But you love him! – shouted Dan at me.

- It's none of your business! I love Christian, but not what he turned into, and still, it is not clear whether I love him or not, - I still disgusted and scared for my live.

- I ado-re you Emmy, - Christian’s voice rang out from behind.

He sits on the windowsill in the same image of a bat. His long black wings are folded behind him. I look more closely, and Chris does not seem so terrible. Christian looks like an angel, like Daniel, but with black wings of the bat. Now I see that stains are not crippling his face, but in them there is nothing attractive, they are similar to veins with dark blood. I don't know if I get used to such look of Christian or not. I still want to escape.

Christian on my eyes slowly turns into the human. Stains are gradually disappearing. He dresses only in trousers, because the rest of the clothing was torn in reincarnation, but it’s slowly growing on the body. I think fans of the action will say that it's cool, but I'm not up to joy.

- Are you not gonna stop her? - asked in surprise Dan. – She is still not able to leave the city, if only you leave her.

Дата добавления: 2015-10-28