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"I wish uncle Jim was here!"

Leng's words echoed in the whole venue and everyone froze. They all took a minute to think about their father figure who died so many years ago. Li-Ming's face stretched into a sad smile. His mother, Jam, came to hug him.

"He would be so proud of you, baby... of the man you've become!

Yeah. But, he must be pissed right now... because he would have liked to walk me down the aisle.

Yes, said Gaipa. He would have fought with P'Jam for the privilege of giving you away... that's for sure.

Congratulations to both of you! Said Alan.

I can't believe my baby boy is married! Said Jam.

Mum... please!"

Heart and Li-Ming just had their commitment ceremony with their friends and family in Thailand. Their plan was to get married legally when they'll be back in America.

"Don't forget to send us pictures after your ceremony in America, said Praew.

Of course! Assured Li-Ming.

Will you be able to come back for your uncle's death anniversary? Asked Jam.

I don't know. We'll be pretty busy with work after the wedding. We'll talk with our bosses and let you know."

Heart kissed his husband's cheek and turned to Alan... asking him something in sign language.

"Heart asks if you had any news about P'Wen lately, P'Alan! Translated Li-Ming.

He sent me a text last month, assured Alan. He's still somewhere in Europe... but he didn't say where exactly.

I can't believe it's been almost 10 years already! Assured Gaipa. First uncle Jim passing away and then, P'Wen vanishing into thin air.

It was too much for him, said Leng. Staying here must have been torture... too many memories of uncle Jim.

Wen said he had to leave because, otherwise, he might have had a breakdown, said Alan.

Which is understandable, said Jam.

I hope he's happy, said Li-Ming. P'Wen made uncle Jim very happy the last two years of his life... I'll be forever grateful to him for that.

Me too, assured Jam. Now... let's make a toast! To Li-Ming and Heart... may you have a long life filled with happiness!"

Everybody cheered and the newlyweds kissed. They left Thailand a week later... going back to their lives in America. They were living in San Francisco, California... Li-Ming working as a web designer and Heart as a teacher in a school for deaf kids. They enjoyed themselves for a few days and then, it was time for their legal wedding. They drove all the way to Las Vegas and had a quick ceremony in a chapel. They did the whole "pomp and circonstance" thing with their families in Thailand... so they wanted a small thing for this one. They stayed one night in Vegas and drove back home. When they arrived in California, they decided to take one more day to go hiking. They had a great day... just enjoying the nature and fresh air.

(I love you, Heart, assured Li-Ming. Thank you for being my husband.)
(I love you!)

They kissed, sitting on a rock... admiring the sunset. And then... all Hell broke loose. The earth started to shake. They jumped on their feet in a heartbeat... but they weren't fast enough. The stone they were on fell into the ravine... and them with it. They held on to one another... Li-Ming yelling his husband's name... until the impact... and then... everything turned to black.

When Li-Ming opened his eyes, he had to take a minute for his vision to clear out : he was dizzy... he was nauseous... he was confused. He looked around him and then... he froze. Heart was lying on the floor... unconscious... his body in a weird twisted position... his head resting in a pool of blood. Li-Ming screamed and tried to rush over to his husband but he suddenly realized that he couldn't move. His arms were moving... his head was moving... but his legs were refusing to move. He was stuck under a piece of rock... probably the rock they've been sitting on earlier... and it was preventing him from moving. He also realized that he couldn't feel his legs... or his feet. He started to cry... screaming for help... yelling for Heart to wake-up... before realizing that Heart couldn't hear him to begin with. Li-Ming didn't know how long they had been lying there... night had fallen so it must had been a while. He also knew that they were dying... at least Heart. He screamed louder and louder... until, finally, somebody arrived. Somebody who appeared out of nowhere... as if he had just jumped into the ravine to join them... which... of course... wasn't possible, thought Li-Ming.

"Hey kid... how are you feeling?

Please! Heart... you've gotta help Heart! Is he still alive? Please! Help him!"

The stranger kneeled in front of Heart and took his pulse. He shook his head and sighed.

"He's still alive... but only just.

Please! Help him! I can't... no way I'm losing him! We just got MARRIED, for God's sake! It's not fair!

Don't worry... it's gonna be fine. How are you?

I... I can't feel my legs... I... I think I'm paralized.

Yeah... probably... let's see if you can move them without that rock on you."

Li-Ming didn't have the time to ask him what he meant... because, at that moment, the stranger grabbed the big rock and lifted it as if it weighed nothing. And then, he threw it away. Li-Ming's eyes almost popped out of their sockets.

"What the hell?

So? Are those legs moving?

Er... no... I... I can't... they're not... shit! I'm paralysed!

That's unfortunate. Now... about your husband... well... this is awkward. I hate these type of scenarios!

Which ones? Hold on! Who are you, mister? How come you could lift that rock? It must weigh a ton!

Yeah... well... not a problem for people like me. Now... first things first. What's your name?

Li-Ming... this is Heart.

What happened? Were you taken by surprise by the earthquake?

Yeah... we... we were on our way back from Vegas after getting married and decided to stop here for a hike. And then... yeah... the earthquake... we fell. How did you know we were here?

I was having a hike too... I like nature... and then, I smelled your blood.

Blood... what the... huh?

Now kid... listen to me. Your husband is dying right now... and unfortunately, he's not going to wake up. So I can't ask him if he wants me to save him.

Save him... you... you can do that?

Sure. But we have strict rules, you know. We can't save people if they don't agree to the change : if they are dying, we have to ask them if they want to continue living... if they're ready for a new life. Because changing people who don't want it amounts to cursing them into a life they will hate... and that's not allowed.

I... er... mister... are you really talking about vampires, right now?

Yes. I know it's an overwelming news for someone as young as you... but it's real. We are real. Now... like I said... he's not conscious... so I can't ask him if he wants me to save him. So... I'm asking you : are you ready to take that responsability?

You... you mean... making the decision for him?

You guys are married... which means that you are already mates. Being married means being together in adversity... and that's what's happening right now : he's dying and you're paralysed. So now it's your choice, kid : do you want me to change him or are you letting him die? He doesn't have much time left."

Li-Ming started to cry and then, he grabbed the stranger's arm and pleaded.

"Please... save him! I... I can't live without Heart! Please!

You realize what it means, right? It means saying goodbye to your families and your friends... it means entering a world you can't even imagine... it means living forever into darkness because the sun is no longer an option.

I... yes... I'm sure... I want to be with Heart... if he dies, then I'll die too. So... please save him! I... I could become a vampire too, right? I mean... is it allowed?... later on... when...

Yes... I guess you want him to change you. Perfectly understandable. And... of course, it's allowed. Vampires finding their mates can change them so they can spend eternity together. You two are already mates... since you're married... so yeah, you'll become a vampire too.

Then go ahead, mister!

Alright. I have to do it here... because he won't survive the ride. Brace yourself if you want to watch... otherwise, close your eyes.

I... no... I want to see it. What's your name, mister?

José. Nice to meet you, Li-Ming. Now... let's help that husband of yours."

José kneeled next to Heart and sank his teeth into his neck. He drank the remaining of Heart's blood, and then, he bit his own wrist and let his blood drop into Heart's mouth... making sure the young human swallowed the whole thing. Li-Ming watched the whole scene with wide eyes. José waited a few minutes and then, he got up.

"Young man... your husband is now dead. He's gonna rise in three days. We can't stay here because people are going to come in the morning... they'll find your car and search the perimeters. I'm gonna take you back to my place. Are your arms strong enough to hold on to my neck? I'm gonna have to carry your husband in my arms... so you'll have to be on my back. The ride is quite bracing so you'll need to hold on tight.

I'll be fine. Where is your house?

Near San José.

Ha! José living in San José! That's funny!

I know. I've never lived there before so I thought I'll try. I was supposed to stay a couple more years, but now, I won't be able to do that. Where are you guys living?

San Francisco.

Alright. We need to move away from America, then.

So that people we know don't find out what Heart became?

That's right! Keeping the existence of vampires a secret is our number one rule. We need to make sure that you won't bump into someone who knew you before. Is there somewhere in particular you want to go?

We should avoid Thailand I guess. Heart and I are both Thai.

Right. What about Europe? Would you like that?

Yeah... sounds great. Do you think people will think that we died here? They're gonna find it suspicious that there are no bodies.

You're a smart one, kid. There's enough blood for them to know that you two were here. And, with any luck, they'll think that you were eaten by wild animals. There's a lot of coyotes and bears in the area.

How horrible! Shit! My mum!

Are you worried about your mum's reaction to your death?

Yeah... she's... well... she lost her brother almost ten years ago... and now, me... that's... she's going to be devastated. Poor mum.

You made the decision, Li-Ming.

I know... and I don't regret it... mum is strong... with time, she'll be fine.

Alright. Hop on! I'll take you guys back to my place now. Welcome to the vampire world!"

A few minutes later, José settled Heart's body on his bed and Li-Ming in a chair next to him. He ran to fetch a wheelchair for Li-Ming in a hospital in San José : Li-Ming didn't have the heart to ask him if he bought or stole it. They spent the first three days talking about Li-Ming and Heart's human lives and José told Li-Ming about the vampire world. They also watched the news in order to know about their accident and see what the police and locals would discover. Apparently, José had been right : everyone thought that Heart and Li-Ming fell into the ravine after the earthquake and that their bodies were eaten by coyotes. On the second day, Li-Ming was watching the news on TV when he screamed.

"Holy shit!

What's wrong?

Nothing. I just... they talked about a guy losing his earing after an infection and suing the hospital because they misdiagnosed him.

Yeah... that happens.

But you see.... that made me realize... Heart... Heart is gonna be a vampire... will he be able to hear properly?

Heart was deaf when he was human?

Yes. He had an ear infection at 15. He's been deaf since then. Will he be a deaf vampire?

No, he won't. When someone turns into a vampire, all his previous wounds and disabilities vanish. For instance, when you'll become one, your legs will be healed and you'll be able to walk again. It's the same for Heart. His ears will be healed... and he'll hear again.

That is so great! He'll talk too! We'll hear each other! I think I'm gonna cry.

I guess he wasn't speaking very often.

He said it sounded weird. Not that he could hear himself speak... but I guess people's reaction every time he spoke was very frustrating for him. People are mean sometimes."

On the third day, Li-Ming watched over Heart like an eagle. He was anxious... mumbling the whole time. José was on his phone... trying to find a way out of the country for all of them... when he froze. He got up and stood in front of the bed. Li-Ming raised his eyebrows, looking at him : José nodded. They waited a few seconds and then... Heart's eyes popped open. He laid still for 30 seconds and then, he sat up and reached for his throat. Li-Ming grabbed his arm.

"Baby... Heart... it's ok... I'm here...

Hot... can't... thirsty... I need...

I know, baby... here, take it!"

Li-Ming presented his wrist to Heart... who looked at it in awe. And then... Heart's fangs grew and shocked the hell out of him. He touched them... and then, he plunged them into Li-Ming's wrist. The feeding lasted for a few minutes... until Li-Ming started to feel faint and José stepped forward to stop Heart.

"That's enough, kid! He's gonna pass out if you continue.

Huh? Who... what... Li-Ming... I... holy shit! I can hear! I'm hearing myself speak! I... what is going on?

Calm down, baby, said Li-Ming. You're fine now. You need to speak english, baby... we're still in America now... and José don't speak Thai. What do you remember?

I... er... the earthquake... we fell... and... I... I don't remember what happened after.

You were dying baby. You had a head trauma... you lost a lot of blood. José arrived and he saved you.

Saved me... how... wait... did I just drink blood? Li-Ming's blood... I... am I... really?

Yeah... it's real baby. Vampires are real... and now... you are one.

I'm... I'm a vampire?

Yes. You were unconscious... José couldn't ask you if you wanted to be saved... so I made the decision for you. I'm sorry... are you mad at me?

No... I... I think I would have done the same thing if the situation had been reversed. I can hear, baby!

I know. How do you feel?

Fine. Er... Li-Ming... why... why are you in a wheelchair?

Well... that earthquake was a mean one : just 24 hours of marriage and you died... and I got crushed by a rock and lost fonction below my waist.

You're paralysed...

Yes.

Oh baby...

I'm fine! I'm not in any pain, Heart. I can't feel my legs at all so... no pain. I'm just stuck to this chair for a little bit. No big deal. Now... this is José! He saved you and brought us here.

Nice to meet you, Heart. Welcome to the vampire world. Sorry for stopping you during your first feeding : you need to learn to drink blood reasonably in order for Li-Ming not to pass out.

Where are we? Asked Heart.

San José! Assured Li-Ming. And now that you're awake, we'll go to Europe. We can't risk people knowing what happened to us, so, we need to vanish. I'm sorry, Heart. I made the decision for you and now, you and I won't see our families ever again.

You chose to save me... knowing that you won't be able to see your mom ever again.

You're my husband, Heart! If you had died, I would have too. But now... we'll live forever. I might never see mum again... but I'll spend eternity with you. That's enough for me. I love you so much!

I love you too.

Alright, kids! Said José. I feel like the third wheel in my own house, so I'll be taking my leave. I don't want to be around for what's to come. I'll just tell you the basics so you won't kill him.

Excuse-me? Asked Heart.

I'm gonna find us a way out of the country : Heart and I can't travel during the day and Li-Ming is in a wheelchair, so it's not convenient, but I'll find something. Now, the addiction phase will start soon and that's not something I want to witness... so, I'm leaving.

Addiction phase? Asked Li-Ming.

That's what we call the early stage of a relationship between a vampire and a human. Usually, it lasts a few weeks... a few weeks during which people can't get enough of each other : the vampire gets addicted to the blood and the human gets addicted to the sex. Now... since you guys were already in a relationship before, it might be different... I've never seen that case before, so we'll see how it goes. I'll give you two some privacy. Heart! Please be aware of three things : first, you're a lot stronger than before, so take it easy with Li-Ming's body. You can break him very easily, you know. Second, he's paralysed... so that means he can't be as active as before : I don't know what were your respective positions before but now, Heart might have to take the lead... don't look at me like that, Li-Ming! I can assure you that I don't like talking about that either... but it's necessary! And third, a vampire's bite is like an orgasm for humans... so don't freak out if he passes out. It's normal. You have to control yourself not to drain him : just stop drinking after he faints and everything will be alright. Now... have fun and call me once the addiction phase is over."

José headed towards the door, but then, he froze and turned around.

"By the way... for your information... the record for the longest addiction phase known to vampire kind is three months... just in case you want to try and break it. A lot of people have tried and failed before so... do your best!"

He left... and Li-Ming and Heart bursted into laughter. They were two weeks short. The addiction phase.... which according to Li-Ming was like heaven on Earth... lasted two and a half months. Heart was disappointed about not breaking the record, but José told them that they probably held the second place... so it wasn't bad. During that time, José organized their escape to Europe. He rented a car and they drove to New York. Of course, with Li-Ming being paralized, he couldn't drive, so Heart and José took turn... driving at night only. And then, José booked a flight to Paris on a private plane : Li-Ming being paralized and Heart and José unable to fly during the day didn't make things easy, but they managed. José knew a vampire who was a pilot so, he made a deal with him. When they landed in Paris, they went straight to the condo that José had found. A condo big enough for three people... with Li-Ming and Heart in one room and José in the other. José had explained to them that a vampire had the responsability of taking care of the newborns he created for at least five years... which is the time a new vampire needs to be independant. He explained to them about the "no more than 10 years in the same city" to avoid raising suspicion and he told them about the way to hypnotize humans in order for them not to know about vampires. When Heart asked when he would be able to do that, José said that the ability would awaken in the next year. They settled in Paris quite quickly. Heart and José managed to find after-school teaching positions... Heart as a sign language and Thai teacher and José as an aerobics instructor. Li-Ming applied for the special aid program... who helped people with disabilities finding jobs... and booked a job for a compagny as their software expert. José and Heart were spending quite a lot of nights in town... José teaching Heart all he needed to know in order to be a good vampire. The first time José took Heart on a stroll in order to find someone to eat, Heart made a scene... saying that he didn't want to feed on anyone but Li-Ming.

"Look! I get that your mate's blood is the best for you right now... but what will you do next year when Li-Ming will be a vampire? If you don't know how to approach humans and feed on them, you won't be able to teach it to Li-Ming. You realize that you won't be able to drink his blood anymore once he's a vampire, right? And he won't be able to drink yours! So... suck it up and learn how to do that now!"

Heart caved and started to feed on other people every now and then... with José present at all time, because Heart wasn't able to use hypnosis yet. One night, they were in the city, looking for a quick meal, when they reached the Eiffel Tower. Heart asked to climb it... just to see how long it will take him to do so with his vampire speed. José allowed it. As soon as Heart was gone, José's phone rang. He picked it up and smiled when he saw who was calling him.

"How rare! For you to call me! I thought none of us mattered to you anymore now that you have your wonderful mate!

Stop it with the pettiness, José! How have you been?

Fine... as per usual. What about you? Living your eternal love life to the fullest?

You have no idea. That's kind of the reason I'm calling. His 50th birthday is coming up. We gonna have a little party but he's a bit uneasy about it. I mean... he doesn't know that many vampires yet... so Pakorn and I thought we'll invite the ones he already knows... even the ones he only met briefly for my birthday. You met him then... so we want you to come.

I see. Damn! I can't believe it's already time for his 50th birthday!

I know. He was changed when he was almost 40... ten years passes so quickly.

Yeah... time does fly sometimes. When is it?

Just before Christmas... December 18th.

Are you guys still in Finland?

Yeah. We'll move after Christmas. Like I said... it's been 10 years. Since you live on another continent, I thought I'd give you a little heads-up!

Actually... I'm in Europe, right now.

Really? I thought you still had two years in San José.

Yeah... but, as you know, sometimes, shit happens. I had to do an emergency rescue and we had to leave America. We're in Paris.

Ha! You're babysitting! That's a first for you, right?

Yeah. My first change... and it's a weird one.

What do you mean?

Like you said... I'm babysitting. I have a newborn vampire... and his human husband. Two babies!

Woah! What happened?

Earthquake in California. They fell into a ravine... one day after getting married. Since one of them was dying, I changed him. But the other one was fine... well... at least, he wasn't dying... so I couldn't change him. And since he didn't want to be separated from his husband, I had to take both. The human is paralysed... stuck to a wheelchair... and now, he's waiting.

For his vampire husband to be able to change him so that they'll spend eternity together?

Yep.

Damn! Those kids were lucky.

Tell me about it. Now, I'd love to come to your mate's birthday, but I won't be alone, Wen. I've got a newborn and a disabled kid.

It's no problem at all. The more people, the merrier.

The usual club?

Yes... Merry Ghouls.

Alright. You know what's weird? Those kids were living in America, but they're originally from Thailand. Is it me or was there a lot of newborn Thai vampires these last years?

Yeah... weird. That's good... uncle Jim will be able to talk Thai with them. Familiarity is great for him. Thanks José.

See you in December Wen!"

The morning after, José told Li-Ming and Heart about some friend of his having a birthday party in Finland. Both kids were very excited to travel to Scandinavia and plans were made. When it was time to attend the party, they drove to Finland. They booked into a hotel... one day before the party. When Li-Ming entered the club where the party was held, he was a bit overwelmed : so many vampires... humans too. It was like a different world. José had warned them about those type of parties... saying that it would involve live food. Heart was kind of scared about feeding in public... in front of other vampires... while Li-Ming was overjoyed at the prospect of finally witnessing that. He had never seen Heart feed on anyone before... except him, of course... so he was really looking forward to it. José saw someone he knew and led both kids over to him.

"Pakorn!

Hey José! Long time no see. Wen told me you had some kids under your care.

Yes. This is Heart... and his husband Li-Ming. Kids... this is Pakorn. He's from Thailand... but please don't start speaking Thai. I don't understand shit when you speak between yourselves sometimes. It's weird.

Hello... P'Pakorn! Said Li-Ming.

Hi P'! said Heart.

How are you, kid? Pakorn asked Heart. Immortality treating you well?

Yes. It's great! I can't wait for Li-Ming to be like me though. It's hard that he's human... and disabled.

Don't worry about that. A year is nothing. It will come before you know it.

P'Pakorn! We have a problem!"

The newcomer's voice made Li-Ming jump and Heart froze when he saw the face of the speaker. They were gobsmacked... unable to speak.

"What is it? Asked Pakorn.

I'm afraid he's even more stressed than we thought. He's in the bathroom right now... pacing around... rambling about not being ready to see that many people.

Ha! Is it mean that I want to tease him? He was the one who persuaded you to have your birthday party when you freaked out about it... and now, he's having cold feet about his! So funny!

Don't laugh, P'! That's mean! José! Good to see you.

You too Wen.

HOLY FUCKING SHIT!"

Li-Ming's outburst made everyone in the venue froze. They all looked at him with wide eyes. Him and Heart were still in shock... looking at Wen like they couldn't believe what they were seeing. Wen's eyes went wide when he saw them.

"Li-Ming... Heart... what...

P'Wen! You're a vampire! said Li-Ming.

No freaking way! said Heart.

Heart... said Wen... you... you're talking... you can hear... oh fuck! Vampire... yeah... of course... you're healed.

P'Wen... said Li-Ming... you... you are... unbelievable!

I gather you all know each other then? Asked José.

Yes. Oh God! He's gonna break something. I... I need to warn him... I... the surprise will be too much... he... no way... I need to soothe him first.

What are you talking about? Asked José.

Who are you talking about? Asked Pakorn.

P'Wen... said Li-Ming, who started crying... whose birthday are we celebrating tonight?

Li-Ming...

José said... celebrating every 50 years... someone who's been a vampire for ten years... Thai guy... December 18th... no way.

Holy shit! Said Heart, finally getting it.

Li-Ming, said Wen, hugging him. I'm sorry. I... I couldn't let him die... I had to... he's my mate. I'm sorry for stealing him away from all of you... but I had to.

He's... is he okay? Asked Li-Ming, still crying.

Yes... he's fine. Well... he's freaking out right now because he's overwelmed by this birthday thing... and now, I need to go and prepare him for the shock of seeing you like that. Are you in pain, Li-Ming?

No. I'm paralysed, P'Wen. I can't feel anything from the waist down.

That's why you were only helping during the night shifts at the restaurant, P'Wen! Said Heart. No sunlight... yeah... of course. That is SO freaky!

So you know Wen, kids... said José. Can I have some kind of background story now?

P'Wen used to live in Pattaya when we were in highschool, assured Heart. He dated Li-Ming's uncle.

No way! Said Pakorn. Are you saying this young man is Jim's nephew?

Yeah, said Wen. The nephew he thought he would never see again. Can you excuse me for a minute? I really need to go and prepare him for this news. P'Pakorn! I think we're gonna have to delay the main act. Can you make them wait one more hour?

Sure!"

Wen went away quickly... and two people arrived.

"Kids!

P'Gong... said Li-Ming... P'Mia...

You too? Asked Heart.

Yeah, said Gong. Long time no see. What happened?

Heart and I got married and an earthquake made us fall into a ravine. Heart's condition was really bad and José had to change him.

And your legs, sweetheart? Asked Mia.

It's fine... I don't feel them but I don't suffer. It's only temporary anyway.

Until Heart changes you? Asked Gong.

Yes, said Heart. It's nice to see you again, P'Gong, P'Mia. We were wondering why you suddenly vanish a few years after P'Wen... now I get it.

Welcome to our world, Heart! Assured Mia, hugging him.

Damn! Said Gong. Jim is going to freak out.

I feel like recording the whole thing, said Pakorn. That's gonna be the most emotional reunion ever!"

They waited patiently for a few minutes... and then, it happened. Jim bursted out of the bathroom like a firing banshee from Hell and rushed over to them. Li-Ming started crying again when he saw him... and before he knew it... he was in his uncle's arms. They were both crying like babies... holding each other.

"Uncle Jim...

I'm sorry, Li-Ming...

It's ok. The secret... I understand. I missed you so much, uncle Jim.

I missed you too.

You look great.

Yeah... you don't look too bad yourself... except for this wheelchair thing. Are you hurting?

No... I can't feel anything.

Uncle Jim... said Heart.

Look at you, Heart! Said Jim, hugging him. All grown up... and now, frozen like that for eternity.

And I can hear! Assured Heart.

I remember! Said Li-Ming.

What? Asked Jim.

You... at the restaurant one day... searching the internet for "vampires in the modern era". You told me it was because of some customers talking about vampires in series... but it was because of this, right? It was about the time you met P'Wen!

Yeah, said Jim, smiling fondly at the memory. Bit of a shock when he bit me the first time. My whole world was turned upside down.

I'll take that as a compliment! Assured Wen.

Holy shit! It IS true!"

The new voice came out of nowhere and Li-Ming was overwelmed once again. Heart didn't know the newcomer... but Li-Ming sure did.

"P'Beam... no way!

Li-Ming! Said Beam, hugging him. Long time no see. Look at you! You're an adult now!

P'Beam... you're a vampire... that's... er... what... shit! The ferry accident!

Yeah, said Jim. And the double dating thing too. Turns out the woman he was with at the time was a vampire. I learned about that after meeting Wen.

That is SO freaky! Assured Li-Ming.

Exactly how many newborn Thai vampires were there these last years? Asked José. And they all know each other! That's amazing!

José! Said Jim. Thank you. For saving Heart... and for taking care of my nephew.

My pleasure, Jim. Those kids are great.

Happy birthday, uncle Jim! Said Li-Ming. Heart and I were already very excited to attend such a party... but now that it turns out to be your birthday, it's even more exciting.

Thank you, said Jim.

Oh! Since P'Beam is here, looks like the perfect occasion to tell you this now.

What? Said Beam.

Jimbo. He died three years ago... at the old age of 18! I don't know where you got that cat, but he was amazing.

Damn! Said Jim. 18... way to go Jimbo!

I knew it! Assured Beam. I told you the cat will still be alive when we'll both be dead! Well... I said that as a joke back then but... who would have thought that he literally would outlive us?

Except that we're still here, said Jim.

Yes, said Beam, but technically, we're both dead. Where did you burry him?

In P'Gaipa's yard! Said Heart. P'Jam wanted to burry him in hers, but it didn't feel right for Jimbo not to be burried in Pattaya. Li-Ming went to pray on his grave the last time we were in Thailand.

Of course I did. I loved that cat!

Me too! Assured Jim. Anyway... I believe congratulations are in order. You two got married.

Yeah, said Heart. Legally married for one day... and then I died! Wasn't that just the luck?

Did you have a ceremony in Thailand? Asked Wen.

Yes, assured Li-Ming. With mum and everybody. Damn! That is so weird!

What? Asked Jim.

During the reception... P'Leng said he wished you were there, uncle. And then, P'Gaipa said you would have fought with mum... in order to be the one to walk me down the aisle.

Yeah... I would have. But I probably would have lost. Nobody messes with Jam. Fuck! She's... first, her brother and now, you... er... she must be... shit!

I know. But mum is strong. She'll get over it. She has P'Tong and Gam. Can you believe the kid is 15 years old now?

Damn! Said Jim. They grow up so fast.

Well... said Pakorn... this little family reunion is wonderful... but let's move on now! We're here to celebrate! Jim! I believe this temporary freak-out show of yours is over now that you're reunited with your nephew... so let's party! Food will be served shortly. Are you sure about the hypnosis?

I... I don't trust myself, P'Pakorn! Assured Jim. I'd rather you do it.

Very well.

What hypnosis are you talking about? Asked Heart. You can't do that yet, uncle Jim?

Yes I can. But I've never done it on such a large group of people. So, I'm letting P'Pakorn do it.

Your english became great, uncle Jim! Assured Li-Ming.

Yeah... when you're immortal, you have a lot of time to learn a lot of things."

They spent another few minutes catching up... Jim wanting to know everything that's been going on in their lives until now... and then, a large group of humans came in. The other guests started their hunt... picking the ones with the best smell. José gave Li-Ming some plugs.

"Er... why are you giving me this?

So you can put them in your ears! Assured José. The hypnosis Pakorn will do is for humans... for ALL humans... so, if you don't want to be included in that hypnosis, you better plug your ears.

Oh! Right!"

Li-Ming plugged his ears and watched as Pakorn took the stage and talked to the guests. And then... he noticed that the humans were starting to behave weirdly... frozen in space... their eyes empty. Heart tapped on Li-Ming's shoulder and he removed his plugs.

"Are you gonna eat, baby? Asked Li-Ming.

Only if it doesn't make you unconfortable! Assured Heart.

It's fine. I was kind of looking forward to see you do that from an outsider's point of view!

Ha! said Jim. That's funny!

What? Asked Heart.

I said the exact same thing during Wen's 100th birthday party. Brace yourself, Li-Ming!

Why? Asked Li-Ming. Is it really gross to look at?

Not really... but since Heart has been feeding almost exclusively on you these past months, other people's blood might not be enough for him. If he does what Wen did back then, I'm gonna laugh so much that I might choke on the blood I'm drinking.

What did you do, P'Wen? Asked Heart.

I took one bite of some woman and found it so gross that I ran back to Jim and started feeding on him in front of everyone.

And he had the audacity of giving her to me so I could finish her! Assured José. That woman wasn't so bad, by the way! It's just that Wen is picky with the quality of his blood.

I'm not picky!

Nobody is moving, said Li-Ming.

Because they're waiting for me, said Jim. It's my birthday so I have first bite. It's tradition.

Cool! Assured Li-Ming."

Jim moved towards a young guy who looked about 25 : he grabbed his head and sank his teeth in his neck. Wen moved to another guy a few minutes later... followed by everyone else. Heart hesitated for a few minutes, but then, he saw a young guy standing near the buffet table and rushed to him. He fed on him for a few seconds, shook his head and frowned.

"Yep... like I thought... gross!"

He took the human away and handed him over to José. Then, he ran to Li-Ming, straddled him and attacked his neck like a verocious beast.

"All of you stop giving me your leftovers already! Screamed José. I'm not a garbage disposal!"

That's when Jim bursted into laughter... pointing mockingly at the young kids. Li-Ming rolled his eyes and enjoyed the attention his husband was giving him. They were supposed to stay in Finland only two days... but having found Jim and Wen changed their plans. They spent Christmas in Finland...and then, Wen and Jim came to Paris for New Year. While Pakorn and his mate, Niels, moved to Canada, Jim and Wen decided to settle in Paris. Wen was ready to bet anything that Jim intended to do that from the moment he found his nephew again. They rented a house not far away from José and the kids' place. Jim found a job as a cook in a french restaurant... while Wen started as an interior decorator. Jim and Li-Ming were spending quite a lot of time together : it was their way to make up for the last years. Jim told him everything about meeting Wen and his discovery of the vampire world. Li-Ming told him about his studies in America and his life with Heart when they were both humans. One day, they were all having dinner at the condo... when José came back... looking kind of freaked out.

"What's the matter with you? Asked Wen.

Er... shit! I can't believe I did this! Talk about an exciting year! The first change of my life... plus the responsability of his human husband... and now... fuck!

What did you do, José? Asked Li-Ming. Bite the president or something?

Cool! Said Heart. Lucky it wasn't the one they had before! That dude was horrible... so his blood must be gross. How the french could vote for such a moron is beyond me!

I did NOT bite the president! Assured José. I just... I... er... met someone... and... well... I didn't erase her memories afterwards.

Holy shit! Screamed Li-Ming and Wen.

Really? Asked Heart.

Way to go, José! Said Jim. Looks like you'll be enjoying yourself from now on!

You've never done that before, said Wen.

No... like I said... what a year! What were the odds that I'll make my first change AND have my first mating prospect in less than a year? Fuck! I'm freaking out!

Is she really hot? Asked Li-Ming.

Yeah... and... well... I don't know how to explain it.

You don't have to! Assured Jim. Wen explained it best years ago. I get it.

What did he say? Asked Heart.

When I asked him why he didn't erase my memories after that first night, he said that his instinct was screaming inside his head not to let me go. I'm afraid my ego went through the roof!

I bet! Said Li-Ming.

So now what? said Heart. You leave her simmer for a few days and see if she's not freaking out about it?

Yeah... said José.

And then... said Li-Ming... it will be hot party time!

The addiction phase... said Jim. That brings back memories.

Good times! Assured Wen.

Yeah... said Heart. How long was it for you, uncle Jim? P'Wen? Because Li-Ming and I tried to break the record... but we were a bit short!

Oh! Said José, laughing. You have no idea!

What? Asked Li-Ming.

THEY are the ones holding the record! Assured José.

No way! Screamed Heart.

Really? Asked Li-Ming. Three months, uncle Jim? Oh! Was it that time you stayed three weeks cooked up inside with P'Wen?

Yeah... said Wen. Three weeks straight... and then, another nine weeks. Hotness all over!

There's nothing wrong with hornyness, said Jim.

Damn! Said Li-Ming. I can't believe I couldn't even managed to beat my own uncle for sex! Can I blame the whole thing on my paralysis? Because that didn't help at all!

Sore loser! Said Jim, smirking.

Uncle Jim! Turning into a vampire made you a tease! I don't know why but I like it.

You said you were a bit short... said Wen... how short exactly?

We made it 10 weeks, assured Heart.

I'm impressed, said Wen. The average period is three to five weeks.

Anybody up for a bet? Asked Heart. For José, I mean. I call six weeks!

No way! Said Li-Ming. No more than three!

Excuse-me? Asked José. Are you saying I have no potential for a healthy addiction phase?

He's just teasing you, José! Assured Wen. Besides, a low addiction period doesn't mean the mating will be unhealthy. Look at P'Pakorn and Niels! They lasted three weeks but they are still stronger than ever. Let's say you're the average... five weeks.

I don't know, said Jim. I think José could surprise us. I'm calling eight weeks.

I'll make you all eat your money! Said José, pissed off. What if I break your record?

Dream on! Said Jim and Wen at the same time."

And then... two days later... José vanished for many weeks... six weeks to be exact. Heart took his winnings from Li-Ming, Jim and Wen... and, later on, they were introduced to Chloé. She was a therapist who attended José's aerobics classes and who had been shamelessly flirting with him for many weeks... before he finally caved. And, from what José told them, instead of being freaked out by the news of the vampire world, she was professionally fascinated... asking many questions about the mental health of vampires. Jim laughed a lot when he heard that : humans were surprising sometimes. It was around April... the week after Wen's birthday... when drama happened. It started out as a casual dinner at Jim and Wen's place... when Wen's phone rang.

"What is it, P'Pakorn?

We have a problem.

What?

Are you with Heart and Li-Ming right now?

Yes... and José and Chloé.

Put your phone on speaker! I need them to hear this.

Alright. It's done.

What's going on, P'Pakorn? Asked Jim.

So... Niels and I are in New York right now... for a visit... we like the Big Apple you see... and we found out some disturbing news. And it concerns Heart and Li-Ming.

What news? Asked Li-Ming.

Your mother, Li-Ming... she's here."

There was only silence for a few seconds... and then...

"WHAT? Screamed Li-Ming and Jim.

Yeah. And, apparently, she's making a fuss.

In what way? Asked Wen.

Well... we talked to a few people who talked to her : she refuses to believe in the "wild animals" theory and she started her own investigation. The police in San José tried to reason with her but she was dead set against the idea of you two just vanishing like that. She spent months investigating... on her own... talking to people... finding clues. She managed to talk to a nurse in San José's hospital who told her that a tall and gorgeous guy bought a wheelchair, saying that it was for his pupil who had a hiking accident. And since there was no reports of such an accident in the hospital files, she got suspicious.

Oh! said Li-Ming. So you really DID buy the chair, José! I thought you might have stolen it.

I'm not a thief, Li-Ming! Assured José.

Then... continued Pakorn... she talked to a renting car compagny who told her three people... including an Asian man in a wheelchair... purchased a car to go to New York.

Shit! Said Heart. P'Jam is clever.

That's Jam for you, assured Jim. Remember how I said she would never be okay with the knowledge of vampires? This proves it! She's following her instincts and now... she's on the hunt. We better brace ourselves for the outcome.

I'm hoping it won't come to that, said Pakorn. For now, she doesn't seem to know anything about vampires. I think her theory is that you've been abducted by a cult or something.

Mother... said Li-Ming, shaking his head.

So... we'll watch her carefully. But, I must tell you, Li-Ming... if she doesn't stop with this behaviour, I won't have any other choice but to erase her memories. And... if that's not enough... I might have to erase her strong motherly feelings for you.

What? Asked Heart.

Erasing feelings? Asked Li-Ming. You can do that?

We don't like to do that, assured Wen. But sometimes, it's necessary. Protecting the secret of vampires is the top priority, Li-Ming. When people represent a danger for us, we need to take actions.

Like you almost did with Gaipa, assured Jim.

P'Gaipa? Asked Heart. What... holy shit! You erased P'Gaipa's memories?

Yes, said Wen. He was so jealous of me when Jim and I started dating, that he also did his own investigation. And since he found out about vampires, I had to erase his memories.

We were afraid of Gaipa's feelings for me being too strong, said Jim. If he had continued in his suspicious behaviour even after having his memories erased, we would have had no choice but to erase his feelings for me.

Luckily, said Wen, it didn't come to that. Thank God for Alan! Are those two still okay?

Yeah, said Li-Ming. They have a kid on the way.

What? Asked Wen.

Didn't you know? asked Heart. P'Alan said you still send him messages sometimes.

Yes... just to check in... because me vanishing from Alan's life was not possible... since we dated before. He might have become suspicious too. A kid, huh?

Yeah... from a co-worker of P'Alan! Assured Li-Ming. When Heart and I got married in Thailand, they told us about it. I think she has two months to go.

That's great, said Wen. Anyway, back to Jam... how do you want to proceed, P'Pakorn?

Like I said... we're watching her. Li-Ming! If she shows any sign of knowing about our world, I'll erase her memories. Hopefully, it will be enough for her to go back to Thailand and move on from her pain... but we never know how people will react. So, I'm warning you beforehand : if the erasing of her memories is not enough... if she continues to look for you and Heart, we'll erase her feelings. I'm sorry.

I understand, said Li-Ming.

I know I'm new to all of this, said Chloé, but, from a psychological point of view, this whole conversation is fascinating. Can I have more details about the feelings-removing thing please?

Baby... said José, shaking his head... I don't think now is the time!"

They spent the next few weeks in anxiety : not knowing what Jam was up to was overwelming for all of them. José often blamed himself... saying that he SHOULD have stolen the damn chair... AND the damn car. Chloé helped all of them through their fears by starting a group therapy. Apparently, she was the only one enjoying herself with this drama. So... they waited... a week... two weeks... and then, the call from Pakorn happened.

"We lost her.

What? Asked Jim.

The human who was watching her during the day lost her in the crowd. New York is not a small city and there's a lot of people. It's not easy to follow someone. Anyway, he lost her trace yesterday and it took us the whole day to find her again.

Where is she? Asked Li-Ming.

On a plane... to Paris!

Shit! Said Wen.

She knows we're here? Asked Heart.

Yes... and unfortunately, now, she also knows about vampires.

How? Asked Jim.

Well... she spoke to the human employee of the vampire pilot you used to go to Paris.

You mean Gale's secretary? Asked José.

Yes. Anyway, once Jam realized that no 29 years old Thai man in a wheelchair was seen in any airport... she searched for private compagnies. And when she showed up at Gale's compagny, he wasn't there because... well... middle of the day. But the young secretary was there and she told Jam that three guys booked her boss' private plane to go to Paris... and that one of them was in a wheelchair.

Let me guess... said José. The employee knows about Gale being a vampire.

She wasn't supposed to! Gale assured me that he was very careful never to mention anything to her. She was only doing his papers and welcoming customers during the day. But somehow, she found out and she told Jam that the two others guys travelling must be night creatures like her boss because they had the same vibes as him. That woman has been dealt with now : Gale erased her memories and found her another job. He apologises to you for the whole mess.

Well... said Li-Ming... it's not his fault. Mum is a butthead!

So what now? Asked Heart.

Do you have human helpers you know in Paris?

Yes, said José.

Have them watch her as soon as she lands! And then... wait to see what her next move will be. Now... I don't want to order anyone around but I want all the independant vampires to assure me that, if the necessity arises, you'll do the right thing. Jim! I know she's your sister, but her behaviour is very dangerous for us. I remember what you said about her when we met... that if she'll learn about our world, she'll have a panic attack and enroll everyone she knows on a raid. I know I laughed back then, but now that it can happen for real, it's no laughing matter anymore.

I know, P'Pakorn! Assured Jim. Don't worry... she'll be dealt with... one way or another.

Keep me updated!"

He hang up and silence fell. Jam was on her way to Paris... and she knew about vampires... the situation couldn't have been worse. José wasted no time contacting the two french humans who knew about vampires. Li-Ming gave him a picture of Jam and he sent it to them... asking them to watch the woman like eagles and report everything to him. Jam arrived in Paris in the morning and the two humans tailed her carefully. She stayed in her hotel room for about two days... probably to take some time to deal with this news... and then, she went on a hunt. She checked the universities first and asked about a possible deaf Thai teacher. Apparently, she was looking for Heart. When she was unsuccessful, she tried all the local schools and the after-school programs. She hit the jackpot at Heart's work place... because the secretary told her that they indeed had a Thai teacher... who was teaching Thai and sign language... but that the man wasn't deaf at all. The human tailing her said she was puzzled by that news. She wasn't able to get contact informations because it wasn't allowed for the school to give them freely... so she decided to wait in front of the building. She waited for hours and she came back the next day... but of course, Heart never showed. He couldn't risk it. He called the school saying that he was out of the country for the moment. Jam learned that and left the building. The day after, she investigated IT compagnies : she was looking for Li-Ming... asking about a Thai man working on softwares. She found the right one after two days. The secretary told her that the Thai man working for them was disabled... in a wheelchair. She started to cry when she heard that. But, there again, she couldn't get any contact informations. When she was told that Li-Ming had called in sick, she got suspicious. The humans helpers got the impression that she was aware of being followed... looking around her... walking faster... trying to get lost in the crowd. After a week, she had a routine : going to Heart's school... going to Li-Ming's compagny... going to bars... going back to the hotel.

"She's not giving up! Assured Jim.

Of course not! Said Li-Ming. She already knows that Heart and I are here... and she won't leave until she's seen us.

I can't be away from work much longer, said Heart.

We have to do an intervention now! Said Wen. But how do we do that?

None of you can approach her, assured José. She thinks her brother is long dead after all... we don't want her to have a heart attack. Maybe I can lure her here.

Don't flirt with my sister! Said Jim.

My thoughts exactly! Said Chloé."

José's phone rang and he picked up.

"Marie?

She's a clever woman!

Why?

She's at "Nuit infinie".

How the hell did she found out about that?

What's "Nuit Infinie"? Asked Li-Ming.

It's a club in Paris, said Wen... a hotspot for vampires. There's usually one club like that in every big capitals. In Bangkok, we have the "Red Dragon"... in Helsinki, there's "Merry Ghouls".

Are those establishments owned by vampires? Asked Heart.

Yes, said José. How does she know about this club?

That's the reason she was hitting the bars lately, assured the human helper. To find out informations about the night world. She knew that she would probably get those kinds of infos in those kinds of venues.

Jam... said Jim, sighing. I always admired her tenacity and her shrewdness... but now, I must admit that I find it annoying.

I knew it! Said Chloé. I knew that club was weird! A hotspot for vampires... really?

You've been there, baby? Asked José.

Once... when I was in College... with some friends. The atmosphear was... er... I don't know... weird. Damn! That's why Catherine don't remember what happened that night! She followed a guy... she remembered having sex... but then... nothing!

She had her memories erased, said Wen, nodding. That happens.

That is SO freaky! Said Chloé.

She's there right now? Asked José.

Yes... Franck followed her inside. Apparently, she's watching everyone in that club like an eagle. And she's checking the door every five minutes.

She waiting for me! Said Heart. She must have realized what I became. She thinks I could walk in at any moment.

Yeah... said Li-Ming. What do we do?

Someone needs to approach her, said Wen. We need to lure her out of the club and in some place where we'll be able to have our little intervention.

Can't the human helpers do that? Asked Heart.

We can't, said Marie. Because we think she might have noticed us. At least me... that's why I didn't follow her inside. Like I said, she's clever. Maybe it's a bit rude of me to say that... because the woman is causing problems right now... but talking as someone whose mother can't take one step out of the house without somebody holding her hand, I'm impressed.

I'll take that as a compliment, said Li-Ming. But you're right... she's causing too many problems. So... who will approach her? José?

I don't think that's a good idea, said Jim. Don't forget that she knows that you two were with a third person... and a man! She might be suspicious of any male approaching her.

Which brings us to me! Assured Chloé.

Baby...

Don't! I know what I'm getting into. I want to help... and with my great verbal skills, I can bullshit her and lure her to my place. As a therapist, I've been dying to talk with that woman : her emotional baggage must be huge!

Are you sure?

Yes. Look! I don't think you have any other options! I'm a woman... I'm human... I'm a psychologist... and I know how to listen to mother-hens who have a hard time letting their child out of the nest!

Oh! said Li-Ming. I don't think mum has problems with me leaving the nest. She just wants me to be ALIVE and calling her every week.

Are you really willing to do that, Chloé? Asked Heart.

Yes. You guys should head for my place and hide in the bedroom. I'll bring her there. I'm sure I can!

Alright then! Said Wen. Let's do this!"

While the five guys headed to Chloé's appartment, the young woman went straight to "Nuit Infinie". She met the female woman helper in front of the club and they talked for a while. The guy helper came out and told Chloé that Jam was still at the bar. The helpers left and Chloé walked in. She decided to play the part of "scared little lamb". She figured that, if she behaved like she was uneasy about been here, Jam will be more likely to reach out to her. She sat at the bar... shaking... and ordered a beer, stuttering the whole time. She looked around her frenetically... hoping that her behaviour will catch the eyes of Jam. And... indeed... it did. Jam sat next to her and Chloé jumped on her seat, looking panicked.

"Hey... I'm Jam... don't panic... do you speak english? Because my french is not good.

Yes... I... I'm Chloé.

You look scared to death.

Sorry... I... it's weird being there... but I was curious so...

I know... it's weird for me too. Are you looking for someone in particular or did you just hear the rumors?

He... he told me he comes here every friday. I... he said I wouldn't dare to come... because this club is...

I know... I just learned about it too.

Are you waiting for someone?

Yes... but I don't know if he'll show up. What about you? That guy... do you think he's...

Probably. I'm scared... but also curious about it... so I gathered my courage and came. This place gives me the creeps.

Tell me about it!"

They talked for a few more minutes... and then, Jam sighed.

"You know what? I don't think the person I'm waiting for will show. How about you? You think he'll come?

No. Maybe he told me that to see if I had the guts to come here.

Probably some kind of bet with his friends.

Men are scum! And apparently... even if they're... er... like that... they're still scum!

Let's go! I really enjoy your compagny and I desperately need a friend in that city.

Do you want to come to my place? I make the greatest Margarita in the city!

That sounds great!"

Jackpot! That's what Chloé thought. They took a cab to Chloé's appartment and started drinking. Halfway through the third drink, Jam started to ramble on.

"You know... it's not right... those people... it's unnatural... why did they do that to Heart? That's not fair... he's... he must be like that now... she said he's not deaf... that means he changed... and Li-Ming... they said Li-Ming is in a wheelchair... so... maybe he's not like that yet... maybe there's time... for me to stop them... I... no way... not Li-Ming... everybody told me to give up... the police... the hospital... even my own husband! Am I unreasonable? Is it really wrong of me to refuse for my son to become that?

Well... I don't know if it's wrong... but that means you love him very much.

Yes... I love him... I'm not losing him... I can't let him become like that. At first, I thought they were kidnapped by a cult thing. But then... they said something about an Asian man in a wheelchair... and I hoped... I hoped it wasn't Heart or Li-Ming... but... they said that the teacher wasn't deaf... and that the web designer was disabled... and I knew. What am I going to do, Chloé? I can't lose my son! Tell me what to do!

Calming down seems like a good idea!"

The new voice made Jam jump and she turned around quickly. José came out of the bedroom and walked to the two women. He sat down next to Chloé and looked at Jam with sad eyes.

"Who is this? Asked Jam.

My boyfriend, assured Chloé.

I thought you said... fuck! I was tricked.

They said you were a clever woman... but so am I! Sorry for deceiving you, Jam. It was vital for me to lure you here.

Why?

Because, said José, now, we can have an intervention. Nice to meet you, Jam. I'm José. I think you know who I am.

You... the other one... three guys... the other one.

Yes.

Where are they?

Are you going to be calm and rational? Because, if not, they won't want to talk to you. You've been causing quite a lot of trouble these last months... and we are all concerned... including those two kids.

You stole them away from me!

I did no such thing. I helped them because they were dying. Are you saying that you would have prefered for me to let them die in that ravine?

I... er... dying?

Yes. After the earthquake, they fell and I found them. It was to late to help one of them the human way... so I did the only thing I could.

You changed Heart. And now... he's... he's like you... dark... creature... I... that's my son-in-law... and now he's...

Breathe, Jam! Assured Chloé. You're doing great.

Why?

Why what? Asked Chloé.

Why him? He's a... a... how can you date someone like that?

Just because we're from different worlds, said Chloé, it doesn't mean we can't love each other. Relationships between the two species is not weird... it's happening more often than you think.

Monsters drinking blood.

Not monsters! Assured Chloé. But the drinking blood thing is correct. And that's a blast!

What?

It feels like an orgasm! It's divine! If I could recommend it to my patients, I would!

It's... you... you don't...

We don't kill... if that's your question, said José. Popular culture doesn't help give a good image of us... because they are WAY wrong. But... what can we do? People will always create trash about us. Are you feeling better now that you know we are not killing people as a hobby?

Really? You're not?

No. We drink blood to feed... not to kill. Jam... the most important rule for us is the secret of our existence : if we want to live in peace, we have to remain hidden from the human world. So... I think you can imagine how we feel about your little hunt.

I... I just...

I know. We all know. Humans are driven by their emotions. That's why we have to do interventions sometimes. Kids! I think she's calm now. You can come."

Jam started to cry when she heard José words and she turned her head slowly. The bedroom door opened and Heart rolled Li-Ming into the living-room. Jam bursted into tears and jumped on Li-Ming... hugging him to death.

"Mum...

Li-Ming... I missed you... you're here... you're... I'm sorry Li-Ming... I couldn't... I...

Breathe mum... it's ok. I'm here. And speak english, mum. I'm glad to be able to speak Thai every now and then, but José and Chloé don't understand shit when Heart and I do that.

Heart.

P'Jam... you really are a wonderful loving mother. We should have known from the start that you'd do this.

I'm sorry if I caused problems. I thought... is it true, Heart? You're not... you're like that now... but you don't...

Mum... Heart is the same person he was back then : loving, kind and with a sneaky disposition. Only now... he's not deaf anymore... he drinks blood... he's strong... and he'll look like that for centuries. You're a clever woman, mother! Not everyone can discover the secrets of the vampire world.

Anything for you, baby!

I'm sorry mum. I made the decision to save Heart and to follow him in that world. Which meant leaving you behind. I didn't think it would make you that sad.

I'm... of course I'm sad... Li-Ming... your legs...

I don't feel any pain, mum. Don't worry. And it's temporary.

Yeah... you... you will... when?

Well... I want Heart to do it... but he can't do that yet. The rule is to wait at least a year before changing anyone. He needs to learn a lot of things... so we still have about four months before he'll be able to change me.

Are you sure, Li-Ming? It's... such a life... well...

It's not a cursed life for us, mum! We chose it! And when you have someone to love, eternity is not a curse.

You'll walk again, right?

Yes. I'll be healed. Mum! That was not nice of you to hunt us down and abandonned P'Tong and Gam! They're the ones who need you. What would you have done if he had enough of your behaviour and asked for a divorce? Foolish mother!

I... I guess I wasn't thinking straight. I... yeah... a world where you're not... didn't feel right.

You were obssessed P'Jam! Assured Heart. Is it weird that I'm impressed and disappointed at the same time?

I'm sorry for disappointing you, Heart.

Not you, P'Jam. I'm impressed by you... but I'm disappointed by my parents. They didn't get obssessed like that for me. That kind of makes me sad.

Don't be! Assured Jam. They went all the way to San José with me. But... they accepted the "wild animals" theory easily and went back to Thailand to have a ceremony at the temple. They love you, Heart... they're just more credulous than me.

Well... said José... that's more like it. A nice family reunion without anyone calling each other names.

And without her attacking you with a stake! Assured Chloé.

It doesn't work, baby, said José.

I know that... but she doesn't. You have a stake in your purse, don't you, Jam?

Mother! Said Li-Ming, shocked.

What? I thought... well... you can't blame me! You were the one making me watch all these vampires movies when you were a kid. That doesn't help thinking about them as nice people.

Popular culture... said José, shaking his head. Now that the vibe is nicer, let's talk business. Jam... you're a clever woman... so you know what's gonna happen now, don't you?

You're going to silence me. But... you don't kill... so... er... how exactly...

We'll erase your memories, assured Heart. Everything you know about the vampire world... it will be gone.

Erase memories... you can do that?

Yes, said José. Hypnosis is our most useful power to deal with humans who cause trouble. But before we do that, there's something else, we need to talk about.

What?

Mum. Obviously we can't take the risk of you going out of your way to try and find us again. If we erase your memories, there's a chance that it might not be enough for you to grieve properly and you could go wild again.

Because your motherly feelings for Li-Ming are too strong, P'Jam! Assured Heart.

So... said José... we need an honest answer from you, Jam. If we erase only your memories... and maybe hint to you that you have to accept Heart and Li-Ming's deaths... do you think you could really move on with your life without causing further issues?

I... I don't know. What... what will you do if I say I don't think I can?

We'll have to erase your feelings for me, mum, said Li-Ming. Your motherly feelings are too strong... and they're making you do this.

Erasing people feelings is horrible! Assured José. Everybody has the right to their own feelings! But... sometimes... it's necessary.

I... I will forget Li-Ming?

No. You won't forget him. You'll just forget about the strong emotional connection that you have with him. It will allow you to move forward. You won't forget that you love him... but that feeling will be tamed... less likely to impact on your behaviour.

I see. I... don't know if I could move on... but I don't want my feelings erased so... I guess I could try. Do you have a... er... what do you call it... a trial period? Do you know what I mean?

I do! Assured José. And yes, we do! If we erase your memories and send you back to Thailand, we'll have people monitoring you for a while... just to see if you really have moved on. If we are assured that you are not going to cause problems again, then we'll leave things at that.

Have you done that before? Asked Jam. Erasing feelings?

Me personally? No. But I know a lot of people who have. Sometimes, humans feelings dictate their behaviours and it can be quite a mess. So... do you want to try it... the trial period?

Yes. No memories of that world... I can deal with... but no feelings for Li-Ming... no way!

Very well, said José.

Are you doing that right now? Can't I have more time with my sons? I mean... maybe I don't have the right to ask after making such a ruckus, but... well... I spent months alone... searching and hoping... yeah... I'm selfish, aren't I?

You're not selfish, mum! Said Li-Ming. You're human! And don't worry about the time we have now. I already asked José to give us a few hours. Besides, we can't erase your memories now because someone else wants to talk to you. That would be mean to deny him that opportunity.

Who?

Brace yourself, mother! And don't forget to breathe!"

That was Jim and Wen's cue to come out of the bedroom. They walked into the living-room... holding hands... smiling mildly. Jam's eyes were wide... like they were going to pop out of their sockets. Everybody thought she was going to cry... but instead, she stood up fast and glared at Jim.

"You fucking asshole!

Nice to see you too, Jam, smirked Jim. Wen! I won! You owe me 20 euros.

Right, said Wen. Hi, Jam. I'm sorry.

You... you were... damn! I thought it was weird that you had his power of attorney after only two years. Before that... it was me! Jim!

Sorry Jam! Obviously, I couldn't tell you. The secret you know.

I can't believe this! I moved Heavens and Earth to find my son because I didn't believe he was dead... and meanwhile, my brother... who I thought was REALLY dead... is walking around Europe! Have you been here all this time?

No, said Wen. We were in Finland. We only came to Paris after we were reunited with Li-Ming and Heart. I'm sorry for stealing him away from you, Jam. I knew he was my mate from the moment I laid eyes on him. I couldn't let him die."

Jam shook her head and wiped the few tears on her cheek. Then, she rushed to Jim and hugged him.

"Stupid little brother! I missed you so much.

I missed you too, Jam.

Are you happy?

Yes. I'm sorry for abandonning you, Jam... but Wen... Wen is more important for me now.

I was SO wrong when I thought vampires were incapable of love. Where do those stupid movies come from?

If only we knew! Assured Wen.

That Thai language is so weird! Said Chloé. I don't understand a thing! Please switch back to English or I'm starting to speak French!

Tell me about it! Said José. I was already having a hard time when it was just Heart and Li-Ming... but now, it's worse.

Sorry, José! Said Wen.

The accident... said Jam... please tell me it really WAS an accident!

Absolutely! Said Jim. Wen didn't kill me, Jam. I wasn't supposed to become a vampire that soon. A human/vampire relationship must last for a long time in order for them to really be sure. Immortality is not something you consider lightly. Two years is usually not enough time.

Li-Ming said Heart will change him in four months.

It's different for us, mum! Said Li-Ming. Heart and I have been dating for eleven years and we're already married. We were mates from the start!

At least three years, said Wen. That's the average amount of time necessary for people to know. I might have been sure from the beginning, but I would have waited at least another year before discussing it with him. The accident changed our plans.

Are those friends of yours vampires too? Asked Jam. The ones who were at the hospital?

Gong and Mia? Yeah.

So weird. Wait! Alan... you... you dated Alan before... does he...

Now he doesn't! Assured Wen. But when we dated... yes. I erased his memories when I broke up with him.

Chloé! Said Jam. Keep the Margaritas coming! Something tells me I'm going to need another one soon."

Jim bursted into laughter and they all sat down. Chloé made more cocktails and handed them around. They talked for hours... about nothing... about everything. Jam was crying every now and then... sometimes from happiness... sometimes from sadness. And then, it was time for everyone to move on.

"The sun will be up soon, said José. We need to do this now.

Mum...

It's ok, Li-Ming. I knew it was coming. I'm glad we spent some time together. I might not remember it... but you will... and that's fine.

I'm sorry, Jam! Said Jim. I wish there was a way for us to keep you in our lives... but I'm afraid there isn't. Too bad P'Tong had his memories erased.

WHAT? Screamed Jam.

Uncle Jim... said Wen.

Er... oops... sorry.

What's that about? Asked Li-Ming. P'Tong knew about vampires before?

Yes, said Wen. He was one of the human helpers we had in Pattaya. He found out about it at the funeral of his first wife. He helped us for many years... before marrying Jam and deciding to have his memories erased.

Why did he do that? Asked Heart.

Because he knew... as we all did... that Jam would never be okay with the knowledge of vampires, said Jim, smirking. And, really, with what she's done recently, she just proved him right. Nice going Jam!

Jerk! Said Jam. P'Tong never said anything... well... the secret... right... of course. Damn! That's why he was sneaking around sometimes! I thought he was seeing another woman. Damn him! I can't even scold him now that he doesn't remember anything! Shit! It's like I'm surrounded with vampires or people knowing about them! Anyone else I know?

Well... said Jim.

Uncle Jim... said Wen... don't!

She's going to forget everything anyway, Wen!

Who? Asked Jam.

Beam.

Huh?

Yeah... bit of a shock for me as well when I found out.

Beam is dead, said Jam. The ferry accident... oh fuck! You've got to be kidding me!

Nope! Said Jim. Weird, right?

I say! Damn! It's like a freak show! Can I go back to my peaceful and normal life now?

Yes... said José. Who wants to do the honors?

I can't do that yet! Said Heart. Otherwise, I would. Bye P'Jam. We'll miss you but you'll be happy and we will too.

I love you mum... deal with your grief better next time!

Next time? Asked Jim. You want her to come back to bother us again? Are you crazy?

I don't want my stupid brother anywhere near my memories! Said Jam. Pick someone else!

Wen? Asked José.

Jam? Asked Wen.

Yes... Wen is fine. Thank you. I'm gonna miss all of you.

We'll miss you too Jam! Said Jim. Take care of you.

Chloé, said Wen. I'm gonna make her sleep and I'll need you to explain things to her when she'll wake up. I'll do it in Thai... because mother tongue is important for hypnosis : if we want her to be receptive to it, it's better to do it in her native language.

What if I ask why I'm in Paris? Asked Jam.

I'll deal with that! Assured Wen. Ready?

Yeah. Goodbye Li-Ming.

Bye mum.

Jam!

Yes?"

Wen's voice echoed in her head and she looked at him with wide eyes. They were empty... like she was staring at the nothingness.

"Jam... you're going to forget everything about vampires. You're gonna go back to Thailand and grieve for your son and his husband who died in that earthquake. They really were eaten by wild animals and there's no reason for you to think otherwise. You went mad with grief and started hunting something that wasn't real. Your hunt led you to Paris where you broke down and decided to let loose. You went to a bar and drank like a fish. You're gonna sleep now... and everything will go back to normal when you'll wake up."

Jam blinked a few times and then, she fell asleep on the couch. Li-Ming stroked her cheek and kissed her forehead.

"I love you, mum... I'm sorry.

Ok! said José. Everyone out before the sun is up! Baby! Make sure she doesn't remember any of us before letting her go, okay? If you catch the faintest hint that she might still be on to something, call me.

Okay, said Chloé. What did you tell her before making her fall asleep, Wen? So I can tell her the same story.

She had a breakdown and went to a bar. She got drunk. You can tell her that you brought her sorry drunken ass back to your place because you didn't know in which hotel she was staying.

Let's go people!"

They evacuated the appartment and left Chloé with Jam. Four hours later, when Jam woke up, Chloé was in the kitchen, making breakfast.

"Hey! You're awake! How do you feel?

Lousy!

Not surprising! You drank quite a lot! Do you remember what happened?

No! I don't remember anything... not even you. Who are you?

Chloé! We met at the bar yesterday... you were distraught and drank like a fish. I almost had to carry you out of the bar. I didn't know where you lived so I brought you back to my place. Coffee?

Yes... thank you. Damn! I can believe it! What a fool!

You're not the first person to get drunk! Don't worry about it!

I'm not talking about that. I'm talking about... er... did I say anything... when we met?

Not really... you were rambling about your son... something about "not letting him go". Did he elope?

No. He died.

I'm so sorry!

Thank you. I think that alcohol put my head back into place. I didn't want to believe it... I was... stubborn and... I looked everywhere... I asked everyone... I went to New York... I came to Paris. What was I thinking? I've been hunting a ghost... such a fool.

Well... love comes in different ways... so I suppose grief does too. You can take a shower and then, I'll drive you back home.

Home is Thailand... so it will be hard for you to drive me there. But you can drive me to my hotel. Thank you."

The ordeal was over. Chloé took Jam to her hotel and Jam asked her to wait for her to pack her things and pay the room. Then, she asked her to take her to the airport. She was going back to Thailand. She was sad... the embodiement of a grieving mother... but she was calm and rational. Things were looking up. Humans helpers in Thailand observed her for a few weeks... but everything seemed normal. Jam had really moved on... so they let her in peace and they all resumed their lives. Two months later, they went to Italy in order to celebrate Beam's 50th birthday. Beam bursted into laughter when they told him about the drama with Jam.

"That's Jam for you! Assured Beam. This whole family is unbelievable! You never know what to expect with them! Am I the only one really looking forward to see Li-Ming as a vampire? Because that's gonna be a bumper ride!

P'Beam! Said Li-Ming. That's mean!"

When they came back to Paris, they got quite busy with their jobs and started spending less time together. But then... another problem arose. Chloé was becoming weird : pale... looking scared... fidgetting a lot... lost in thoughts. José was afraid she didn't want to be part of this world anymore. He was pacing around in the living-room one day... mumbling anxiously.

"She's gonna ask me to erase her memories... I'm sure of it... shit! Isn't that just the luck?... of course I couldn't be so lucky... who finds the right one on the first take anyway?... fuck... yeah... she wants out...

Calm down, José! Said Wen. You don't know that for sure! You need to talk to her!

Maybe there was some kind of trauma in her past, said Jim. A trauma that happened in June. Remember how I was around New Year, Wen?... before we found out about Beam being a vampire? I was still hunted by the memories of his passing... and of his cheating.

Yes... and I was scared you wanted me to erase your memories at the time. Talk to her, José! I really don't think she wants out... but something is obviously wrong."

As soon as Wen had said that, Heart's phone rang and he picked up.

"Hey baby... are you done with work?

Baby! Heart! Help! I... I don't know what to do!

What's wrong?

I... Chloé... she's... blood... there's blood... I think... she's not dead but... please help! What should I do?

Where are you?

In Chloé's office! I stopped by so we could grab lunch together... but, when I got there... the door was opened and she was... she's here... she's breathing but... I think José needs to... shit!... it's the middle of the day... he can't...

Like I care! Said José, rushing to his closet. Close all the curtains, Li-Ming! I'll be right there!"

He covered himself from head to toes and rushed out in a matter of seconds. He reached Chloé's office in a few minutes. Li-Ming had closed all the curtains, so the room was dark enough for José to remove his clothings. Chloé was lying in a pool of blood... she wasn't conscious... she was breathing... but only just. José took her pulse : it was very weak.

"I'm sorry, José! Said Li-Ming.

Do you know what happened? Did she talk at all?

No. She was already like this when I found her. Will you do it?

I... shit! I didn't think... not that soon... but... shit... we never talked about that... what if she hates me afterwards... I... I don't know... only six months... that's not enough... not nearly enough... but...

But you love her! We all know it, José! And she does too! There's no doubt about it! And you know what? She told me she was ready for it about a month after the addiction phase.

She told you that?

The both of us are humans. We've been hanging out during the day. Of course, we often talk about our relationships. And of course she knew it was too soon for her to talk to you about it. José! She's smart and beautiful... she loves you and she didn't hesitate to be the bait to help us when mum caused problems. She's a wonderful person."

José nodded and picked up his phone.

"How is she? Asked Wen.

Almost dead. I'm gonna do it, Wen. I know it's early but... what the hell! There's too much blood for me to make her disappear so I'm gonna let the police find her body. Will you be able to steal her from the morgue?

Of course. We'll start planning. What about her family?

It's just her dad... and he lives in some country town up north. I'll let the police contact him. And then, I'll need your place for the three days. I can't risk for people to barge into my place to offer condoleances if she's there.

It's no problem. And then... you'll need to go away.

Right. Shit! Not even one year in Paris... and now. But the responsabily of Heart is still with me... so... we all need to move. Talk with Jim and see if you want to follow us. I'd leave the responsability of those kids to you... but rules are rules, Wen.

I know. Like I said... we'll start planning. Is Li-Ming ok?

He's in shock... but he'll be alright.

Don't wait for the police, José! Unless you want to explain to them why you're going out all covered up."

José hang up the phone and proceeded with Chloé's transformation. It took a few minutes... and then, she died.

"Li-Ming... are you okay?

Yeah. What happens now?

Well... I'm sorry to ask this, but it's all up to you now. I can't stay here... because the police is going to wonder why I can't go outside. I'll go back home and start planning with everyone. Once I'm gone, you need to call the police. Open the curtains back and tell them about finding her dead. If they find your fingerprints on the curtains, just tell them that the switch wasn't working. I'm gonna blow the fuse. Go with her to the hospital and tell them her only relative is her father, who lives in... er... what's it called... er... Maubeuge! I don't know if he's gonna come though... Chloé said they weren't close. I'll hypnotise the doctor because they'll want to do an autopsy and we can't risk that! Wen and Jim will deal with the morgue people afterwards. Once everything is done... you can go to Jim and Wen's place. With any luck, Chloé will be at the condo before you. You got all that, Li-Ming?

Yes! Go José!"

Everything went as planned... and the only thing they hadn't considered turned out to be a good thing. The police investigation was very quick because... in addition of Li-Ming's fingerprints... they found other fingerprints and they were able to catch the culprit. Chloé was stabbed by a patient who had been obssessed with her for months. Which... as Wen said... was probably the reason Chloé seemed to be on edge lately. Wen and Jim took her away from the morgue... hypnotizing the workers in the process. Chloé's dad... as it turned out... was a drunk and violent asshole who couldn't care less about his "whore of her daughter finally getting what she deserved"! Li-Ming cried when he heard that... there was some mean people on Earth. They didn't do any kind of official ceremony because they didn't want people paying to much attention to them. José received a few people at the condo... mainly former patients of hers... offering condoleances. Wen and Jim organized their escape out of France : they decided on Greece because Li-Ming said he would like to spend his last months of humanity on the beach, having sunbaths. On the third day, Li-Ming was at Chloé's side, looking anxious.

"Do you think I should offer her my blood when she'll wake up? Human blood is better for the first feed.

Baby... said Heart... I know you love her, but your blood is mine! I'm not sharing!

Cheapskate!

Thanks for the offer, Li-Ming! Said José. But you can't do that. You did it for Heart because he was already your mate... so it doesn't matter that he got addicted to your blood. But what would you do if Chloé becomes addicted to it? That's a risk, you know.

Oh! Right! Yeah... not doing that then!"

They waited a few more hours and then, Chloé's eyes popped open and she sat up... holding her throat.

"Putain de merde! Trop soif!

She's swearing in French! Said Li-Ming. And she says she's thirsty.

Who bet she was going to swear when she'll wake up? Asked Heart.

Me! said José. Hey baby... here... drink!"

Chloé looked at José's wrist for a few seconds... and then, she shook her head, pushed the wrist away and plunged her fangs into José's neck.

"And the one who bet she would go for the throat was me! Assured Jim. So predictable!"

She drank for a whole minute. Then, she sat still and looked around her. She took a minute to comprehend what was happening and then, she sighed.

"Please tell me that asshole is dead!

If you're talking about your agressor, said José, yes he is! The cops barged into his place to interrogate him. After confessing to everything, he shot himself.

Damn! Well... he was completely mental... I knew from the start I wasn't gonna be able to help him. And then... yeah... his obssession... he scared me.

Why didn't you talk to me about it?

What would you have done? Kill him? Vampires don't kill, José! And they don't meddle in humans' problems. I wanted to deal with it myself. I didn't think he would go that far.

Are you mad at me, baby?

Of course not. It's not like you could have let me die. You love me too much... right?

I knew it! Said Jim. She's a tease! And her teasing personality will go through the roof now that she's a vampire!

God help us! Assured Wen.

How do you feel, Chloé? Asked Li-Ming. You gave me quite a scare!

I'm fine. Are you the one who found me, Li-Ming?

Yeah... I came to pick you up for lunch. Bit of a shock when I found you in a pool of blood.

Welcome to our world, Chloé! Assured Heart. We're so glad Li-Ming found you in time!

Thanks. So... I'm dead. Are we leaving?

Yes, said José.

Where?

Greece.

Why did you pick such a sunny place?

Because Li-Ming asked us to indulge in him, said Wen. He wants to spend the last months of his human life under the sun. Maybe he'll be a tanned vampire!

That's right! Said Li-Ming. You're all so pale! Well... except for José... but he's latino-african-american, so his skin was already like that before. I refuse to be that pale! I'm gonna be so tanned when it's time for me to be a vampire, that the paleness won't affect my tan! Mark my words!

Baby... said Heart, shaking his head... I love you, but you're a bit crazy sometimes.

Alright! Said Wen, getting up. Everybody out! José and Chloé needs some privacy now... unless someone wants to stay and watch.

Watch what? Asked Chloé.

Right... said José... so... er... I didn't tell you about that because... well... it was too soon to talk about mating, so the post-transition phase was not something I expected any time soon.

Post-transition phase? Asked Heart.

Yep, said Jim. And that's a blast too!

Is it some kind of mating phase once the human in the relationship becomes a vampire? Asked Chloé.

Yeah! Assured José. And it can be quite... er... rough. You have strength, baby... and you can't control it... so... er... yeah... intense.

I don't want to watch! Said Li-Ming. But I want to know if there's a record for that as well!

Yes there is, said Wen. And we're holding that one too!

Really? Asked Heart. You guys rock! How long?

A week, assured Jim.

That's not very long, said Li-Ming.

It's different than the addiction phase, said Wen. Because there's no blood drinking involved. It's just pure animalistic sex... and like José said... quite a rough one. I know we are leaving soon, but please try not to break anything in our condo! We'd like to get our security deposit back! Let's go uncle Jim!

Have fun! Said Jim."

Wen, Jim, Li-Ming and Heart left... and José and Chloé stared at each other for a few minutes. She got up slowly... stretching.

"So... animalistic sex, huh?

Yep. Do you like that outfit you're wearing? Because I might tear it into shreds soon.

I really couldn't care less. Just one question. I don't know if now is really the time... but since you didn't mention it...

What?

My father?

Yeah... we called him. His reaction was... er... kind of revolting.

Let me guess : I'm a whore and I got what I deserved?

Something like that.

Well. At least he won't call every other week to insult me and ask for money to drink himself to death anymore. I'm happy to be dead for that reason alone. Now... I think it's time you rip my clothes into pieces."

José shivered and all of his self-restrain shattered. He dived on her like a mad beast and pushed her against the wall... and unfortunately, he didn't hold back... and they went through the wall and crashed on the other side. Looked like Wen and Jim were NOT going to have their security deposit back. The post-transition phase lasted five days and the day after, everyone left Paris in the middle of the night and headed to Athens. The drive took two days because... obviously... nobody could drive during the day. It took a while for them to settle in Athens and even if José still had the responsability of Heart, he also had Chloé to think of and there was no way everyone could live together. So, all three couples settled in three different appartments. They decided to take it easy and not work for the moment. They knew the stay in Greece was temporary so they didn't want to start new jobs. Li-Ming was spending all his days outside... sometimes in parks... sometimes at the beach... and after a few weeks, he really seemed to become more tanned. The summer they spent in Greece felt like paradize for Li-Ming... but of course, he knew that it was only temporary. They all indulged in him by coming to a very sunny country when they couldn't take one step outside during the day. All of them wanted Li-Ming to have his finals days as a human the way he wanted. Wen was having a night stroll with him one night.

"P'Wen... am I selfish?

Why do you ask that?

Well... I asked to come here... and you guys can't even enjoy the sun... was it mean of me to ask that from you? I mean... I don't think you guys are unhappy... but you seem... I don't know... more tame. Even Heart seems a little bit quieter than before. It's the heat, right? Even without sun, nights are hot and that's not a good thing for you guys, right?

Well... it's temporary. It's true that hot countries take a while to get used to... but only for newborns. I lived in Thailand as a vampire before, so it's not a problem for me... and José lived in many countries in South America... so he's used to it by now. But I guess... yeah... it might be hard for the others. But you won't ever hear them complain, Li-Ming. They're doing it for you... they can endure. Uncle Jim is amazed by this phenomenon, though.

Why?

He said it's not fair to be affected by the heat here when he's originally from a hotter country. But since he became a vampire, he lived in Finland and France... so he never tested hot countries as a vampire. That makes him grumpy.

I'm sorry for making uncle Jim grumpy. I'm being so unreasonable.

You're not unreasonable, Li-Ming. It's perfectly understandable. You know... you are lucky... luckier than most vampires around the world.

Why?

Because we died suddenly... without having the chance to enjoy our last days of humanity like you're enjoying yours. People like Mia, who chose to become vampires to be with their mates, had a little more time to enjoy simple things like the sun or the sea. But it's been rare lately. That's one thing I regret... not for me... but for Jim. When I spoke to him on his hospital bed... when he was in the coma... I apologized to him for not being able to take him to the beach or to the sea one last time. That's the reason everyone is enduring : we're giving you the opportunity to do what we couldn't do. Don't feel bad about it, Li-Ming. We're glad you're able to enjoy yourself.

But I don't want you guys to resent me for it.

We don't. Like I said... we're glad you can have that. You know what's weird? My death was like your situation right now... well... except that it was a bomb and not an earthquake...

What do you mean?

My legs were crushed too! I couldn't feel them at all after I got stuck under a building. The difference was that I lost more blood than you... so I would have bled out to death if P'Pakorn hadn't found me.

You could have been paralysed instead of being a vampire... that's so weird. Are we gonna have to move somewhere else before Heart changes me? He might not be in a good condition to do that here.

Yes. We're already looking for destinations. And after we get to the new place, you'll need to wait a few weeks for Heart to be able to change you. But the good news is... since we'll be new people in a new town... nobody will know us and we won't have to move right after your transformation. And really... with everything that's been going on lately, a little stability will be very enjoyable."

They left Athens at the end of August : Li-Ming's skin was so dark that José said he looked like an Asian born in Mexico. They went to Iceland and settled in the capital, Reykjavik. Li-Ming was glad to see that everyone went back to normal : low temperatures, long nights and some of the most beautiful sceneries in the world. Yeah... it was better for everyone to be in a northern country. And then... after a few weeks... it was time for Li-Ming to become a vampire. José had taught Heart everything about the procedure. He was ready... he was looking forward for his husband to be like him. When Wen and José asked them if they wanted witnesses for the procedure, they said no. They wanted Li-Ming's change to be the most romantic thing in the world... because that's what it was... an act of love... a commitment... the promise of forever... and nobody had the right to witness that. Li-Ming even said he didn't want anybody but Heart to watch over his body during the first three days : in his mind, that was a private thing too. They decided on the date : September 11th. When Chloé asked if it had anything to do with the terrorist attacks in 2001, they laughed and said it wasn't because of that. September 11th 2022... it was the day they met... the day uncle Jim sent Li-Ming to deliver the chicken-rice to Heart's house... the day their lives changed forever. Wen said that it was funny that Li-Ming and Heart met the day after he met uncle Jim. Destiny was a weird thing. They stayed in bed all day... just enjoying the time they had left as a vampire/human couple. They made love... Heart drank Li-Ming blood... they laughed... they professed their undying love for each other.

"I love you! Said Li-Ming, stroking his husband's cheek.

I love you too! Are you ready?

Yeah... make me like you, baby!

See you in three days!"

Heart kissed him passionately and then, he sank his teeth into him. Li-Ming closed his eyes and his mouth stretched into a smile. The orgasm induced by the blood-drinking arrived pretty soon and he passed out. But this time... Heart didn't stop drinking his blood. He drained him... and when he felt Li-Ming's heart slowing down, he bit his own wrist and made his blood fall into his lover's throat. He waited a few minutes... and then... Li-Ming's heart stopped beating. He was dead. Heart took very good care of him afterwards : he cleaned him... put some clothes on him... brushed his hair. He made a phone call to José after the procedure to assure him that everything went okay. And then... he waited. He sat next to his husband for hours... thinking about what life would be like once Li-Ming will be a vampire : going on night strolls together... feeding together... racing against each other to see who will reach destination first... having sex without the anxiety of breaking Li-Ming's body... travelling around the world for centuries... never getting old. On the third day, Heart was very nervous... watching Li-Ming like an eagle. And then... it happened. Li-Ming opened his eyes and sat up so fast, that he headbutted Heart, who was seated next to him.

"Ouch!

I... er... sorry... baby... I'm... er... hot... I need.

I know. Here!"

Heart leaned over and presented his neck. Li-Ming looked at it for a few seconds... and then, he dived. The feeding lasted a minute and then, he kissed him passionately.

"How do you feel?

Good... strong... I love you so much! Thank you for making me like you!

Welcome to our world, baby! Can you stand?

God I hope so! Did you burn the wheelchair like I asked you to?

Oh yeah! Chloé danced around it and sang a vengeful french song. You'd think she was the one who had been stuck in it for a year."

Li-Ming bursted into laughter and tried to move his legs slowly. It was happening... he could feel his legs again... he could feel his feet... he could feel his toes. He stood up slowly... taking one step at a time... and then, pacing around... faster and faster... and then, running fast across the house. He was healed... he wasn't paralysed anymore. He jumped in Heart's arms and they kissed.

"So... said Li-Ming... now, it's hotness all over again?

Yep. We have a record to break baby! No way we'll be the weakest link in our group!

The weakest link? What do you mean?

Well... while you were sleeping, we had some news. You know how uncle Jim and P'Wen hold the record for the longest addiction phase?

Yes.

Well... it turns out that José and Chloé broke another record... without even planning to.

Which one?

The fastest mating in the history of vampire kind!

Oh! You mean... the dating period before becoming official mates?

Yep. Apparently, only six months has never happened before. The old record was a year... and they crushed it! And they didn't even do it on purpose!

Damn! That's something!

Yes it is! But now... they're ahead of us. So that post-transition record is ours! You better brace yourself, baby! I'm ready to break the house down if it means beating P'Wen and uncle Jim!

I'm right here with you, baby! Let's show them what we can do!"

And... they did! The house was almost destroyed after their ten-days-rough-sex-mating-phase. And when Jim suggested that they must had cheated, Li-Ming smirked at him.

"I told you it was because of my paralysis! There's no doubt in my mind that we would have crushed you for the other one if I had been able to move my legs properly. You're a sore loser, uncle Jim!"

Jim frowned and everybody laughed. Heart hugged his lover... his husband... his mate. They were young and in love... and they had eternity before them.

The end.