The Turning

[DeliciousMaiden]

Natasha let herself into her small apartment and walked past the phone which was flashing with messages. She looked towards the phone she had somehow discarded on the sofa and saw that it too was showing numerous missed calls. With only the slightest hesitation she hit delete on both. Walking into her bedroom, she saw the discarded outfit that she had planned to wear and realised that she could not even remember getting dressed last evening or even consciously walking towards the club.
It was so strange, it was what Benoit termed The Call, but she had no regrets and could only marvel at what path her life, or indeed death would take from then onwards.

In the club talk of an eternal afterlife seemed somehow normal, but here in her familiar setting, the thought of what she had decided to do seemed bizarre. She pulled off her clothes, the memory of Benoit and his love making still fresh in her memory. Stood beneath the heat of the shower, she tried to rationalise what had happened to her. She could not question what he was, she had seen evidence of that, neither could she deny the unmistakeable attraction there was between them, but to give everything up for him, it simply didn't make sense; it wasn't something that any rational person would ever do. But this went beyond reasoning. Somehow Benoit was her destiny, her other half and realisation of how irrational her decision was, did not detract from the promise she had made Benoit; she would be his.

It was Faye she called first. Still wrapped in her towel, Natasha explained that Benoit had invited them all to spend the evening at his club by way of apology for luring her away from their intended girlie evening. He was eager to meet them all, Natasha told her and invited her round at 7:00 so they could have a drink and then leave together at 7:30 or the club. That call done, she then pulled on her jeans and a t-shirt before calling round a further 4 of the friends she had 'stood up' the night before. Each of them were appropriately relieved that she had come to no harm, but equally curious about this 'new man', but Natasha defused all questions saying that she would tell them all about it that evening when they met up.

As she suspected, all of her girlfriends arrived promptly. She had a jug of pimms prepared thinking it best to start slowly alcohol wise and waved the 5 into her compact apartment, pleased to see that they had dressed up for the 'occasion'. As one they all exclaimed about her own outfit, a figure hugging black dress, the hemline being well above the knee and the neckline, being scooped and emphasising her curves. In contrast she wore the same red lipstick of the night before along with red nails, red heels and had her red evening bag ready. Her hair hung long and untamed.

"Wow, look at you!"

Faye greeted her.

"This guy must sure be something ... "

As one the friends compared notes as Natasha went to fetch ice and agreed that the friend who usually played down her looks, opting to wear her hair up and her clothes fashionable, but tasteful a look reflected in her usually 'fresh' make up choices. This new, dramatic Natasha did indeed suggest that this guy really was 'significant'.

Natasha found it easier than she had thought to keep to the story she and Benoit had agreed upon. She had been seeking an interview with the owner of that new goth-type club and hit dead ends time and again. She'd finally been told that he would grant a short interview, but only if she were able to arrive within the hour. After fabricating the way they met, Natasha had no trouble in telling her friends how they had been drawn to each other and that time had seemed to fly. They of course knew that she had stayed the night and refrained from direct questions as to how that came about, but it was clear to them all that unexpectedly Natasha was totally 'hung up' on this new guy. For a girl who avoided relationships it was more than surprising and they all were more than eager to 'check him out' and discover what it was that had 'turned Natasha's head' so quickly.

It was 7:45 as they were walking towards the club when Benoit's text came through.

All is prepared and ready, my dear. I am anxiously awaiting you and your company.

She smiled as she read it and instead of texting called the number and waited for him to pick up.

"Hi, we're on our way ... 5 minutes ... you want us to come through the front or ... sure ... yes ... me too ... "

She was very aware of the 5 watching her carefully as they spoke.

"Ok... see you in a few minutes... I know ... "

She rang off just as they rounded the corner and took in the façade of the club. It wasn't a place that would naturally be a venue any of them would frequent.

" ... places like this are really popular apparently ..."

She told her friends.

" ... there's a whole 'scene' I never even knew existed..."

She commented guiding them past the main entrance and turning down the side street to a heavy door. Taking out the keys from her red bag, Natasha selected the heaviest looking key and unlocked the door, waving them inside before securing it behind them. Looking round, she instantly saw where she was and led them to the staircase pausing as the group looked down at the 'activities' of the club below before following her up to the room she knew Benoit would have prepared for them.

 

[Niceandbrutal]

The minutes seemed to drag into hours after her call. Benoît was skittish and anxious, prowling about his private apartment. Oh, but what if this had all been a bad idea? What if one of his friends recognised him? What if they didn't like him and steered Natasha away from him? Then he stopped, the rational part of his mind admonishing him:

Stop it! This evening isn't about you but Natasha and her friends! Now stop being an ass, calm down and give Natasha the treatment she deserves and you never were granted!

He heard the heavy key entering the lock and turn! His heart, such as it were, leaped. They were here! Now for calm demeanor and courteous behaviour!
He smelled Natasha. She had showered, adding a freshness to her enchanting bouquet. He heard Natashas light and sure footsteps accompanied by the equally light but decidedly more unsure footsteps of her friends.

He heard whispered conversation among them. "What IS this place?" and "I'd never imagine 'tasha in a place like this." He heard their pulse, all of them heightened. It struck him that Natasha's pulse was quickened as well as her friends' pulse. She probably was as anxious for him to make a good impression on her friends as much as he was. Her friends were entering The Unknown. Of course they were anxious. He'd have to be calm, charming, and courteous.

With a final mustering of courage he lowered his shoulders as the door opened, an inviting smile spread across his lips. Natasha held the door open for her friends as they sidled into the room, looks of curiosity plain on their faces. Curiosity for the room and him both.

He walked towards them with the same smile on his face, hand outstretched. As they offered their hands he pulled them close and gave them a short friendly peck on each cheek and a quick embrace before releasing them. Finally he went to Natasha and gave her a short but passionate kiss on her lips. "Darling, I am so happy to see you and your friends here tonight!"

He then turned to her friends. "Please. Help yourself to some food and wine. I think I have catered for every dietary eventuality. I look forward to your company this evening, Natasha's friends I consider friends of mine. Make yourself at home, all of you."

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

She ushered her friends into the room entering last and closing the door behind them. She stood and watched as Benoit greeted each of them warmly and finally walked forward, their eyes meeting, exchanging a soft smile before he kissed her, sending her senses spinning no matter how briefly.

"Darling, I am so happy to see you and your friends here tonight!"

Natasha smiled.

"They wanted to meet you Benoit."

She told him as she glanced across at them watching them as Benoit invited them to help themselves to the food.

"... I look forward to your company this evening, Natasha's friends I consider friends of mine. Make yourself at home, all of you."

She led the way to the platters and began to lift them.

"Goodness, Benoit, you're really spoiling us ... "

She exclaimed and moved to his side to embrace him briefly once more before encouraging her friends to help themselves to the food Benoit had laid out for them.

"This is wonderful..."

She murmured as she helped him pour wine for each of their guests as they found a place to sit and eat comfortably. Accepting a glass of red wine from him, Natasha finally took some of the cold platters and sat herself near Benoit as they ate in relatively companionable silence.

"So, you don't usually do interviews?"

It was Faye who spoke up first.

"What made you agree to let our 'Tasha interview you? ... and at short notice?"

She queried.

" .. our magazine is unlikely to appeal to your clientele after all ..."

She commented sceptical about the story Natasha had told her. From what she saw by the way they acted together they surely could not only just have met?

"This place looked amazing, but why a goth type club?"

This was Serena, for all her blonde looks, she was remarkably intelligent and astute.

" ... I'm sure they've undergone a revival, but ... it would seem a bit of a 'niche' market.... ?"

She suggested taking in Benoit's own experience and perhaps concluding that he was 'dressing the part'.

 

[Niceandbrutal]

Benoît beamed as they helped themselves to the food. He realised just how much he'd missed the company of others. Sure, he'd brought those he fed off up here. But there was almost no cultured conversation to be had. Only seduction, telling his food what they wanted to hear, never a contrary opinion voiced. He relished the prospect of being interrogated by these women, Natasha's friends.

It was Faye who started. He'd liked Faye immediately. She had a look about her that told the world she would not tolerate nonsense nor suffer any fools.

"So, you don't usually do interviews?"

A slight bow her way before he answered: "That is correct, Faye. Usually I don't see the point in doing soundbites for the media. Natasha here was an exception."

"What made you agree to let our 'Tasha interview you? ... and at short notice?"

"Natasha was unusually persistent. She'd even aquired my private number. It was hearing her voice that convinced me to do an interview. It made me sit up and take notice as I told myself 'Benoît, you simply must meet the woman behind that enchanting voice.' The rest, as they say, is history."

" .. our magazine is unlikely to appeal to your clientele after all ..."

"Oh, I wouldn't say that, Faye. First of all, you must realize that the goth scene is limited in size. Only in the largest cities you can sustain a niche magazine and make it pay. In smaller cities like this one you'll find that the fringe elements will seek out whatever information thay can from wherever they can. I think Natasha realized this when she pursued me for an interview, seeking to expand your audience."


Then Serena chimed in. She looked sharp, although she tried to hide it behind a facade of Blonde curls and big blue eyes.

"This place looked amazing, but why a goth type club?"

"And why not? I think every subculture deserves a place to call their own. Unless it is against the law, of course. I am sure I could have opened a more 'mainstream' venue, probably make a lot more money that way too. But I myself am drawn to the beauty of the dark. I feel that a celebration of the darker side of culture and human nature is in its own way a life-affirming experience. Acknowledging darkness only makes the light all the more bright. Besides, you'll find a good deal of humor peppered across goth culture. And some of the happiest most vibrant people I've met are self-confessed goths. They have not followed mainstream culture. They have searched for and found their own little niche and are so much happier for it."

" ... I'm sure they've undergone a revival, but ... it would seem a bit of a 'niche' market.... ?"

"A revival? Yes, but they never truly went away. It's just that with every subculture the popularity ebbs and flows. This is both seasonal -think Halloween- and on a larger timeframe. In any city of some size you'll find there's subcultures thriving, goths are pretty much a mainstay as subculture. I blame it on your flirtation of decay and death you call Halloween, a most intriguing and delightful tradition. As for me, I've always loved goth culture. It is in fact older than you might think."

Benoît thoroughly enjoyed himself. He hadn't had proper conversation for several years.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Natasha was slightly anxious when her friends began their interrogation, but Benoit’s easy manner soon put her at her ease. In fact his description of how they had met brought a blush to her cheek as they exchanged a look.

"Natasha was unusually persistent. She'd even aquired my private number. It was hearing her voice that convinced me to do an interview. It made me sit up and take notice as I told myself 'Benoît, you simply must meet the woman behind that enchanting voice.' The rest, as they say, is history."

She didn’t see the look exchanged between her friends, but heard Misha, the dark, petite girl who had recently joined their group at least found it all ‘romantic’. She listened as Benoit commented on the ‘goth scene’, watching the faces of her friends carefully as he commented;

“… I myself am drawn to the beauty of the dark. I feel that a celebration of the darker side of culture and human nature is in its own way a life-affirming experience. Acknowledging darkness only makes the light all the more bright.”

They seemed to accept his words and even seemed intrigued. Even when he commented;

” I blame it on your flirtation of decay and death you call Halloween, a most intriguing and delightful tradition."

Only Natasha it seemed picked up on the fact that Benoit spoke as if from a viewpoint beyond that of living humankind.

”I can’t see you as a goth Tasha,”

The somewhat straight talking Dawn commented, almost derisively.

” … well I think you look fucking fantasic!”

Mel’s comment drew a gasp of laughter from the girls.

”Dawn’s only sore ‘cos she can’t take the credit for restyling ‘Tasha.”

Mel explained to Benoit, rolling her eyes and pointing with a mock whisper.

"Fashion designer..."

She explained, rolling her eyes.

” … and we certainly can’t say she hasn’t tried.”

Misha commented bravely having been on the receiving end of some of flame haired Dawn’s less than tactful advice.

” … well maybe I’ve found my niche …”

Tasha told them calmly as she looked towards Benoit and gave him a smile, which spoke of a shared secret that the girls were not to be privy to.

”It looks like it.”

Faye commented holding Natasha’s gaze.

”It’s good to see you so happy babe.”

She commented softly.

”But you be good to her you hear?”

Her words were softly spoken, but serious.

” … we don’t want to see Tash hurt.”

 

[Niceandbrutal]

Faye, Serena, Misha, Dawn, and Mel, Benoît found them all delightful company. As they talked they seemed to warm to him and the fact that he was Natasha's boyfriend. Nothing could have pleased him more. He laughed at their mock quarreling and faux derisive comments.

Seeing that they were good enough friends to be able to spar and exchange jibes like that told him volumes about how close they were. It seemed Natasha had been well looked after before he met her. It almost felt like she was reluctantly yet happily passed over to him to keep and take care of, a melancholic moment. He decided then and there that she must keep up with her friends, as much for their and her sakes as for his sake. He found pleasure in their company he'd forgotten could exist.

He caught the smile from Natasha. That, along with her look and general demeanor told him that any revelation about his vampiric was not forthcoming tonight. He gave an almost imperceptible nod to show he understood. All in good time, if ever. That was up to her.

Faye's melancholic admission almost broke his heart. This woman truly loved Natasha, he sensed. He locked eyes with her as she spoke to him.

"I am touched by your concern for Natasha, Faye. Truly, I am. I want you -all of you- to know this: I've worshipped this woman since our eyes met. I'd gladly go to my death, knowing she'd be safe if I did so. If any harm befalls her it will not be my doing, this I swear to you. Friends like you are hard to find and I am glad Natasha was looked after by such a fine quintet as you. I propose a toast! To friends, old and new, and to new beginnings!"

He lifted his glass.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

They all raised their glasses, echoing Benoit's words. The light clinking of glasses punctuating their toast, as Faye first moved forward to hug Natasha and then Benoit, as if giving her seal of approval, an action followed by the other girls until Natasha found herself surrounded by the five, all congratulating her and seemingly having accepted Benoit at his word.

Natasha in turn was touched by her friends' reaction and pleased that they seemed so at ease with Benoit. She urged them to take more food and to get their drinks topped up before they settled down again.

"So .. did you ever get your interview, Tash?"

Serena asked lightly.

Natasha laughed and blushed.

"Ummm.. not exactly ..."

She responded shame faced prompting them all to laugh and roll their eyes.

"I could suggest that you interview him and then spend Sunday typing it up, but ... I guess you might have other things in mind his weekend..?"

Mel enquired with a grin.

"It isn't top of my list at the moment."

Natasha confessed.

".. but then again, neither is taking on more work ..."

She glanced at Benoit. They had yet to discuss next steps, but she was certainly reluctant to return to work on Monday, though it might be politic depending on how they were going to play it out beyond this weekend.

"Please tell me you're not gonna become a professional goth?"

Dawn gave a mock shudder of terror.

"What have you done to our girl?"

She demanded incredulously of Benoit.

 

[Niceandbrutal]

Benoît was almost moved to tears by her friends' display of affection and approval. He laughed heartily at their merciless teasing of Natasha but regained focus when the talk turned to work. They hadn't really discussed this so he improvised, hoping Natasha played along.

"I have just offered Natasha a position as co-manager of this very club. As I understand it, she is well aware of who's the 'movers and shakers' in this city. I am still awaiting an answer on that, but I don't want to pressure or nag in any way. The offer is there. I'll get your answer when you're ready to decide, my sweet."

He fixed Dawn with a strict look. "My love for Natasha doesn't hinge on her becoming a 'professional goth' as you put it. Whatever she chooses to do will be of her own free will. I may influence her, but I will never force anything on her she doesn't want. It is important for me to emphasize this. If she chooses to dance to this- this Britney Spears or even" a genuine shudder "Justin Bieber, I will still love her."

Realizing he'd come on a bit strong he added "I'd be very disappointed in her questionable taste in music, of course. But I'd still love her unquestionably. And I am sorry if i seemed upset just now, but it irks me when people talk about goths like they are some strange religious cult to be shunned. They are simply normal people with a different taste in dress and music from the mainstream. And goth has sometimes crossed over into mainstream, the most prominent band being The Cure, of course."

He hoped he hadn't ruined the mood.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

"I have just offered Natasha a position as co-manager of this very club. As I understand it, she is well aware of who's the 'movers and shakers' in this city. I am still awaiting an answer on that, but I don't want to pressure or nag in any way."

She saw the five pairs of eyes lock on her incredulously. She smiled shyly and turned to Benoit as he continued.

"The offer is there. I'll get your answer when you're ready to decide, my sweet."

She merely nodded, intrigued by his suggestion and how plausible it was, although leaving her work would be a wrench for her friends, she knew.

"My love for Natasha doesn't hinge on her becoming a 'professional goth' as you put it. Whatever she chooses to do will be of her own free will. I may influence her, but I will never force anything on her she doesn't want. It is important for me to emphasize this. "

She extended an arm as Benoit spoke, her hand squeezing his arm to try to get him not to be upset by Dawn's comments. Only she recognised the renewal of his promise not to turn her unless she wished it in his words.

"If she chooses to dance to this- this Britney Spears or even" a genuine shudder "Justin Bieber, I will still love her... I'd be very disappointed in her questionable taste in music, of course. But I'd still love her unquestionably."

His words about her potential taste in music drew a grin from the friends. Natasha had questionable taste in music or so they thought and they could only speculate as to how their music tastes would mesh with Benoit's in the future.

"That told you, Dawn."

Mel laughed as she through out the comment.

"And I am sorry if i seemed upset just now, but it irks me when people talk about goths like they are some strange religious cult to be shunned. They are simply normal people with a different taste in dress and music from the mainstream. And goth has sometimes crossed over into mainstream, the most prominent band being The Cure, of course."

It was Natasha who spoke.

"You understand the nuances of goth culture Benoit. To us, to Dawn especially the term refers to a way of dressing, a lifestyle choice, but only defined by music and styling. It's the way of the magazine, I'm afraid, to consider 'types' rather than dig below the surface."

She glanced across a Dawn, who if anything seemed impressed that Benoit had stood up to her.

"Which is why I wanted the interview in the first place. I wanted to get under the skin of the movement, to actually see beyond the superficial and ... and I found Benoit..."

She concluded with a smile.

"Well, can't complain about your taste Tash ..."

Dawn's words showed she was far from offended, in fact she seemed to make a further assessment of Benoit, her eyes taking in his appearance as she considered his words.

" ... a guy who's passionate about what he does and is as passionate about you ... I'd say 'go for it'."

She advised uncharacteristically.

"You only live once."

She urged.

 

[Niceandbrutal]

"You understand the nuances of goth culture Benoit. To us, to Dawn especially the term refers to a way of dressing, a lifestyle choice, but only defined by music and styling. It's the way of the magazine, I'm afraid, to consider 'types' rather than dig below the surface."

"Having never delved into the world of publishing I'll still venture this advice: If you started catering to sub-cultures, doing in depth analyses and occasionally cover concerts and happenings I think a couple of things would happen. Your sales would increase as word of mouth spread and you'd be noticed as a more 'serious' magazine. Who knows, maybe you'd emerge as the new 'Rolling Stone' or 'New Musical Express'."

He left unsaid that he'd be willing to sponsor them if they chose that route. He didn't want to flaunt his fortune nor pressure them to cater to his whims.

"As it is with goth, so it is with other subcultures. The roots go back longer than one thinks. Using gothic as an example, its roots are traced back to novels from the 18th century and encompasses authors like Polidori and Percy Bysse Shelley."

He remembered both authors fondly, having been firm friends with both.

"Which is why I wanted the interview in the first place. I wanted to get under the skin of the movement, to actually see beyond the superficial and ... and I found Benoit..."

"Indeed you did, my dear. You entered my life like an irresistible force of nature, transfixing me with your beautiful eyes and your sharp intellect. To quote an otherwise inferior movie: you had me at 'hello'. Depending on one's viewpoint I was lost or I'd found my way home. This was unlike anything I'd ever experienced before."

As Dawn's assessment of him became clear he could only incline his head towards her in gratitude as a happy smile spread across his face. He gave her a quick toast as he fully appreciated no harm was meant by her comments. She was testing him further, and it seemed like he'd passed.

"It seems I must watch how much wine I imbibe. You are a sharp flock of women, set to pounce at any sign of weakness. This, I think, is the trademark of the good journalist. Your company and our conversation I find delightful. I am grateful to have you enter my life as Natasha's friends. I hope you'll consider me your friend as well. I dearly hope we can have more gatherings like these."

An imploring look at Natasha. He'd had a very pleasant time and he would love to repeat the experience.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

"Indeed you did, my dear. You entered my life like an irresistible force of nature, transfixing me with your beautiful eyes and your sharp intellect. To quote an otherwise inferior movie: you had me at 'hello'. Depending on one's viewpoint I was lost or I'd found my way home. This was unlike anything I'd ever experienced before."

Natasha marvelled at how open he was with her friends. It really seemed that he wanted to be himself and to be accepted or otherwise as such.

"It seems I must watch how much wine I imbibe. You are a sharp flock of women, set to pounce at any sign of weakness. This, I think, is the trademark of the good journalist."

The girls laughed, prepared to forgive him his passionate defence of what seemed to be his lifestyle and if anything respecting him for it. Of more interest was the intensity of his declarations in relation to their friend, which seemed nothing but sincere.

"Your company and our conversation I find delightful. I am grateful to have you enter my life as Natasha's friends. I hope you'll consider me your friend as well.
I dearly hope we can have more gatherings like these."

Natasha caught his look. It seemed he genuinely was enjoying this and not just for her sake. And in turn, her friends seemed to be at ease in his company.

"You don't know what you're asking ... we're on best behaviour at the moment..."

Serena commented with a laugh.

" ... you seem like you can take it though, Benoit...?"

Faye held his gaze as she posed the question, her eyes flitting between him and Natasha.

" ... you two sure know how to put all your eggs in one basket."

She figured that Tasha and Benoit were equally hooked on each other, but the intensity was beginning to concern her.

"You know the old saying, marry in haste, repent at leisure? I know you're not crazy enough to be planning a 'for ever' yet, but ... go a bit easy ... "

She counselled.

" ... you do realise you only just met?"

She reminded to two.

" ... and it's obvious you're both crazy about each other, but if you rush head long into working together it could all combust and be short lived ... "

She turned towards Benoit.

" ... and you could be hurt as much as Tasha,"

She told him.

" ... and you don't deserve that either ..."

She smiled apologetically at Natasha. Faye was more than aware that her friend had been a 'commitment-phobe' until this point and couldn't help but suspect that despite Natasha's feelings for Benoit, if he became any more intense, Tash could well be scared off.

"I just want the best for you two. You seem so great together."

She told them.

 

[Niceandbrutal]

" ... you seem like you can take it though, Benoit...?"

"I can take almost anything as long as the probes and queries are good natured curiosity and not delivered with hostile intent. I detect no such intent from you, and so I am delighted to be scrutinized by Natasha's lovely friends, knowing they have nothing but concern for her well-being at heart."

Then Faye voiced her worries.

" ... you two sure know how to put all your eggs in one basket. You know the old saying, marry in haste, repent at leisure? I know you're not crazy enough to be planning a 'for ever' yet, but ... go a bit easy ... "

Benoît was about to answer her, but she continued before he could say anything.

" ... you do realise you only just met? ... and it's obvious you're both crazy about each other, but if you rush head long into working together it could all combust and be short lived ... and you could be hurt as much as Tasha, and you don't deserve that either"

Benoît was dumbfounded, humbled by Faye's sincere warning.

"I just want the best for you two. You seem so great together."

The last sentences almost a plea. He looked at her for a little while, a sad but grateful smile playing across his features. He was utterly touched by her worries and warnings and he had to compose himself before answering her.
His voice quavered just a tiny hint with emotion as he began to speak:

"You, Faye, are a true friend and a gem to be treasured. Your worry for me and Natasha both is touching beyond what I am able to convey with words. It takes a good friend to convey worries and uncomfortable truths, and I thank you most profusely. While Natasha and I are caught up in what can only be described as a whirlwind romance, we are both of us aware of the dangers inherent in such a relationship. We've already had a talk about this and we've decided to do what feels right only after a discussion on the relevant subject. What you might not be aware of is that Natasha and I are birds of a feather when it comes to romance. We've both secluded ourselves from the ravages of emotions until we met the one who set our blood racing."

As he talked to Faye his eyes never left her, but now he sought out Natasha again. He looked at her, a question in his eyes. Surely Faye had to be told, at least?

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Natasha knew that Faye was pleased for her, but obviously worried. They had spent many hours and many glasses of wine talking of men and Natasha's vows to never become 'seriously involved'. She was obviously concerned for her, but she could not help but be reassured by the concern she showed for Benoit.

"You, Faye, are a true friend and a gem to be treasured. Your worry for me and Natasha both is touching beyond what I am able to convey with words. It takes a good friend to convey worries and uncomfortable truths, and I thank you most profusely."

As with all the other comments and questions Benoit not only accepted, but thanked Faye for her words.

"While Natasha and I are caught up in what can only be described as a whirlwind romance, we are both of us aware of the dangers inherent in such a relationship. We've already had a talk about this and we've decided to do what feels right only after a discussion on the relevant subject. What you might not be aware of is that Natasha and I are birds of a feather when it comes to romance. We've both secluded ourselves from the ravages of emotions until we met the one who set our blood racing."

Natasha blushed at his words. It was true of course. So much more so than any of her friends could imagine. She smiled across at Benoit and saw the expression in his eyes. She sensed as much as anything else that he wanted to be honest with her friends, about everything. Her eyes widened slightly in alarm as she willed him not to speak yet.

"Benoit, why don't we show the girls the club. It will be different to other places we've been, but they might be interested."

She wished she could get a moment alone with Benoit, or even with Faye; to ensure that the former didn't rush revelations and to reassure the latter.

 

[Niceandbrutal]

"An excellent idea, Natasha. Let me just call the DJ and ask him to put on something softer."

The club was in full swing and the presiding house DJ, the selfstyled DJ Baphomet, was manning the turntables. Right now it seemed like he was doing an industrial extravaganza, fronted by Nine Inch Nails and Rammstein.

"Hello Baphomet! Yes, it's Benoît, the man who pays your wages. Listen, I have some VIP guests new to this whole scene and I implore you to turn the frenzy down a notch or two. Yes, Cocteau twins would really hit the spot, I think. Either one is fine, although 'Pearly Dewdrops Drop' is the least haunting and nicest of the two. Yes, go with that. Good man, keep the ambience around that level for at least the next hour or so. I'll call you if there are any changes. Great. Bye."

He opened the door for them and led them down the stairs to the club where a nonsensical but beautifully performed song about pearly dewdrops belted out of the speakers. He gave them the grand tour. Here, the alcoves for couples wishing a modicum of privacy. Here, the common area for those watching and wanting to be seen. Adjacent to the common area, the dance floor and DJ station. In the centre, the bar with its famous absinthe fountain. The fountain was a copy of an original from pre-war Prague and had a distinct old-world feel about it. And finally, the semi-secluded rooms for larger groups wanting to discuss and talk without having to yell. They also served light snacks and finger food until midnight. The fare was unremarkable, but popular.

The club's walls were painted a deep shade of red, with black sections and black drapes breaking up the pattern. Dimmed but warm light emanated from sconces along the wall, while posters made luminescent by UV-lights broke the monotony. Pictures (some with dedications to Benoît) adorned the walls. Haunting vistas of graveyards and moonli moors, several goth bands, and of course Jack Skellington.

As he moved along with Natasha and her friends, he was acutely aware of their reactions and comments about the place, answering as best he could. He also sensed that Natasha wanted to speak to him, and after offering her friends drinks on the house he excused himself and begged to borrow Natasha for a little while.

"Is there something bothering you, dearest?"

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

"An excellent idea, Natasha. Let me just call the DJ and ask him to put on something softer."

The girls exchanged looks as Benoit dialled down describing them all as 'VIP guests'. Natasha saw that the girls were enjoying being given such amazing hospitality and were definitely curious as Benoit escorted them downstairs commenting on the darkly mythical ambience, but actually impressed by how everything was set out. There were tasteful, historical looking pieces as well as the expected graveyard vistas. They had not expected to see so many different spaces and saw that the club catered for intimacy, areas for talk and discussion as well as the obvious areas to dance and to see and be seen. For Natasha, this was the first time she had truly looked around and like her friends she was impressed, but knowing that many of the images represented his actual past, which her friends could not know, she look still more closely at the detail. Whilst her friends exclaimed about the surroundings, Natasha was largely silent, taking it all in and the significance of it all. Beside her Mel linked arms with her and told her in no uncertain terms that if she were offered a place of co-manager in a place like this, then that she would grab it with both hands.

Benoit saw that they were settled in a quiet corner with whatever drinks they wanted and excused himself and her as they let the girls confer alone for the first tie time that evening.

"Is there something bothering you, dearest?"

He questioned her as they drew aside to a secluded corner.

"No, not bothering me ..."

She replied hesitantly, casting a look back in the direction of her friends.

"They love you ... and they seem to even like this place, just ... "

She looked up and held his gaze.

"You think we should tell them, don't you? Tell them everything?"

She asked.

"I'm not sure they could all handle it ... but ... let's just leave any further 'news' for another time?"

She pleaded softly.

" ... perhaps it will be easier the more they get to know you ... this evening's going so well ... all thanks to you Benoit ... I just don't want to risk ruining it by pushing too hard, too quickly...."

She hoped he would understand. If she got this wrong, she could lose her friends for ever ...

 

[Niceandbrutal]

"You think we should tell them, don't you? Tell them everything? I'm not sure they could all handle it ... but ... let's just leave any further 'news' for another time?"

He pulled her into a hug, reassuring her. "I wouldn't dream of divulging our secret without you agreeing to it, Natasha. On that you have my word. If you say 'wait' I wait. If you say 'do not ever tell of this' I will comply. But if you want my advice, I think at least Faye should be told. Her concern for you is genuine and touching. She will suspect something has changed once you turn and it will worry her deeply. I can tell. But if you aren't comfortable telling her or indeed any of your friends, then we continue our charade. We do this your way or not at all."

He hugged her still. This was an evening of firsts for them both, but also for her friends. A light kiss on her cheek.

" ... perhaps it will be easier the more they get to know you ... this evening's going so well ... all hanks to you Benoit ... I just don't want to risk ruining it by pushing too hard, too quickly...."

"And I quite agree. Telling them now right after the shock of them seeing you together with a man -I gather that was quite the surprise for them- would be an overload, I think. Not to worry, I won't tell them unless you tell me it is okay to do so. Now, shall we rejoin your pack of delightful friends?"

He held her and looked into her eyes, smiling.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Natasha moved into his hug and listened to Benoit's reassurance.

" ... But if you want my advice, I think at least Faye should be told. Her concern for you is genuine and touching. She will suspect something has changed once you turn and it will worry her deeply. I can tell. But if you aren't comfortable telling her or indeed any of your friends, then we continue our charade. We do this your way or not at all."

She nodded. She thought that if she told anyone it would be Faye ... just ... not yet ...

"And I quite agree. Telling them now right after the shock of them seeing you together with a man -I gather that was quite the surprise for them- would be an overload, I think."

Again Natasha nodded. Just being in the relationship she and Benoit had suddenly discovered was enough for them to get used to.

"Not to worry, I won't tell them unless you tell me it is okay to do so. Now, shall we rejoin your pack of delightful friends?"

She reached up and pressed her lips to his.

"Thank you Benoit ... for being so welcoming, so generous to them all ... "

She murmured.

" ... and for being so patient with us ... me ..."

She took his hand as they walked the short distance back to the girls. She saw them grin as she and Benoit approached.

"Here ya go hon ... get that down you ... "

She was presented with a lethal looking cocktail, tinged blue.

"Don't ever let her go beyond 3 cocktails at most ... she'll be of no use to anyone ... lightweight ..."

Serena told him conspiratorially prompting Natasha's indignation and teasing.

" ... with Serena, it's vodka you gotta watch ...remember Misha's birthday?"

They all laughed and told Benoit how Misha's family had been tee-total, so Serena had sneaked in a bottle of vodka and then drunk over half the bottle herself.

"NOT a pretty sight."

Grimaced Dawn.

"Yup it's Faye who tends to dance on the tables .."

He was told ...

"Speaking of which ... why don't we give it a go ...?"

Dawn stood dragging Misha up with one hand and Natasha with the other .... laughing Natasha found herself carried along by her friends as they headed en masse for the dance floor to attempt to move in keeping with the music. Natasha's protests were met with assurances that Benoit could join them. There was nothing she could do but leave Benoit in their collective wake to join them or watch as he wished.

 

[Niceandbrutal]

"Thank you Benoit ... for being so welcoming, so generous to them all ... and for being so patient with us ... me ..."

"I have waited centuries for you. What are a few more weeks or even months?"

He grasped her hand as she offered it to him.
He laughed heartily at their playful banter about drinking and dancing on tables.

He watched them steer towards the dance floor and he followed them, signaling for the DJ to crank the music up. He resolved to dance with them all, starting and finishing with Natasha. As the music started up, he locked eyes with Natasha, effortlessly finding the moves and rhythm with her. She was as sensual on the dancefloor today as she had been yesterday, once again captivating him. He danced with her for a while, enjoying the shared motions.

Then the next song started and he excused himself, asking to dance with Serena. He found it hard to keep up with her as she swirled and gyrated around him. Try as he might he couldn't keep pace with her. Not without resorting to supernatural powers, which he was loath to do.

He endured a song and dance with Serena before moving on and inviting Dawn. He found her easy to dance with as she was more occupied with her own moves than matching him.

Misha was a surprise. She started out almost shy, but as the music progressed she became wilder and more unbridled in her moves, bordering on the promiscuous.

Mel was a saucy dancer, but more sly about it than Misha had been. Benoît could but admire her form as she teased and flirted with him and half a dozen other men on the floor. He liked her form.

Faye, the wild dancer on tables, was yet another surprise. She seemed a bit stand-offish at first before she gradually warmed up and matched him move for move. Apart from Natasha, he enjoyed dancing with Faye the most and he lightly kissed her hand when the song finished, thanking her.

Then he was back with Natasha and all the other dancers just melted away. For him, she was the only woman on the floor WORTH dancing with, the others he'd danced with out of politeness. As the last song ended he hugged and kissed her, not caring at all who saw them.

He looked around at Natasha's friends. "Refreshments, everyone?"

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

"I have waited centuries for you. What are a few more weeks or even months?"

He had told her, both warming and reassuring her with his words.
He followed them through to the dance floor, cutting through her friends to dance opposite her. Their eyes locked and she became unaware of the others dancing around them. Though not as intense as their dance the night before, moving with Benoit was nonetheless mesmeric, their bodies seeming to match perfectly.

The music done, Benoit moved to Serena. One by one he danced with her friends leaving Natasha to spend time with the others not engaged in a dance with Benoit. The music was unfamiliar to them, but the atmosphere and the fact that they were together and spurring the other on lent an energy to the group. Finally Benoit returned to Natasha. Her smile of welcome, gratitude and love as she moved into his arms and once again it was just the two of them against the world. As the music faded he held her to him and kissed her deeply sealing his love for her and making her thrill to his touch.

"Refreshments, everyone?"

His offer met with universal agreement. Natasha left her hand in Benoit's as they returned to their table and ordered more drinks. Talk went to regaling Benoit with tales to do with Natasha's past, how each of the group had joined the company they now worked for and how they had come to get to know each other. Faye had been there the longest and it was she who had taken Natasha under her wing when she had joined. As became obvious, the two were the foundation of the group, to be followed by Serena then Mel and Dawn and finally Misha, although they declared proudly that they were 'still working' on her!

Only later did they return upstairs to Benoit's room and partake once more of the plentiful food which was still set out there. By that stage they were all relaxed, their attention turning curiously to Benoit.

"So, how long have you had the club?"

Mel enquired, obviously impressed by it.

Dawn wanted to know who had done his décor and where his artefacts had been sourced from and Serena was curious about his origins.

"Tash said you were French ... did you ever live in France?"

She queried...

 

[Niceandbrutal]

"So, how long have you had the club?"

That was easy for him to answer truthfully.

"I purchased these premises a little over four years ago. They'd been vacated for years. This used to be a warehouse. I spent a year completely refurbishing and cleaning the place up. As soon as it was brought up to code I set about making this into the nightclub I've always dreamed of owning. almost eighteen months to the day after I bought this dilapidated scrapheap, Club Vlad was open for business. Some limited aggressive marketing and word of mouth did the rest."

"As for my décor and the artefacts, they are all my doing. I swore to myself that my vision of the perfect goth club would be honored and I made it clear to the decoratore that I would not compromise. Honoring someone's input is of course wise, and I took some hints and tips from them, but the end result is approximately 95% of my vision, the last 5% not being feasible given adherence to building code."

"The artefacts are also from my private collection. I've travelled quite a lot and I have always had an eye for beautiful objects. Some of the things on display here are quite valuable, but I prefer we keep that our secret."

He winked conspiratorially and made a shushing motion, smiling all the while.

"Oui chére Serena, je suis francais. I am indeed french by birth and upbringing, but I like to consider myself a citizen of the world rather than to allow myself to be fenced in by geographical strictures defined by politicians and businessmen. I am privileged enough to be able to do so."

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Natasha relaxed back, a glass of red wine in her hand a Benoit responded to the questions. She had started on pimms, had a couple of glasses of white wine with her food, then 2 cocktails and now she was drinking red wine. She was far from drunk as her consumption had been over a long evening, but nonetheless she felt 'mellower', though much of this was due to the fact that Benoit was by her side and she was surrounded by her friends and everyone seemed happy and content.

She had thought that this first meeting would be relatively brief, yet it was heading to midnight when her friends finally began to consider that they might call it a night.

"Are you coming with us, or ...?"

Faye glanced towards Benoit with a suggestive smile.

"I may just stay here a while longer ..."

Natasha told her friends blushing.

"... sure ... just for a while ... "

Commented Mel which set them laughing and teasing once more.

"I'll walk you out ... "

Natasha offered finally after hugs and kisses and farewells had been made with Benoit. It would be the first time she had been alone with them since they arrived. Leading them down the main stairway, Natasha turned towards the back entrance through which they'd entered. It was much quieter here and they paused as one as Natasha drew out her keys once more.

"So....?"

She looked around the group wondering what their verdict was.

"He's not your usual type ..."

Offered Serena.

"Like she has a 'usual type' ... "

Laughed Dawn, who had long been encouraging Natasha to get out on dates and have fun without all the commitment angst.

"I think he's a real gentleman ... and so charming..."

Natasha smiled at Misha's verdict.

"He owns a club, he adores you and I'd bet he's far from poor. What's not to like?"

Mel commented practically.

"What about you Faye?"

She asked her best friend.

"Like he said ... I think you both waited to find the right one ..."

She responded.

"I still worry about you both rushing into things, but ... if the right guy swept me off my feet, well ... I doubt I'd be able to hold back either ... "

She told her and moved to draw Natasha into a hug.

"Be good to each other, though, ok?"

She warned.

"Ok..."

Natasha responded, ridiculously moved by her friend' concern.
One by one they exchanged hugs and kisses until finally she pulled the door open and the 5 spilled into the cool evening.

"Call me if you fancy Sunday lunch tomorrow ..."

Faye told her.

"We can go out mid-afternoon if you want .. just text me by 12 so's I know, ok?"

Natasha nodded. Faye had correctly guessed that she hadn't worked out her Sunday schedule as yet ...

The door closed and locked, Natasha turned and made her way back through the club an up the staircase to Benoit's quarters. He had made it clear that he liked her friends, but she was still unclear as to how they would make all this work ...

 

[Niceandbrutal]

At the end of the evening Benoît was positively elated by his visitors. It was so long since he'd had pleasant civilized conversation. He'd fallen into a rut, he decided. He'd closed himself off to the world. He prowled his club for feeding prospects and he had regular contact with his staff. He had also some telephonic contact with his stockbrokers who managed his fortune on the market. But having visitors over just for the sake of conversation and pleasant company? Not since... the lines started to blur, but he realized he hadn't been out and about since the starlet had died.

It was with a feeling of melancholy he watched them go. He understood Natasha's need to be alone a few moments with her dearest friends. Out of respect for her wishes he did not tune in to their conversation as they left. Instead, he set about cleaning up and calling down to his staff. There was still food left, an unexpected treat for his staff. And why not? They were hardworking people, deserving of little treats and rewards from time to time. He'd have to ask Natasha about things like that, he decided. he was a bit out of touch with how to reward good employees.

He cast his mind back to the evening, and was again moved by Faye's genuine concern for them both. He smiled at the memory. He was smiling still when Natasha entered the apartment again. Feeling charged and exuberant after such a fine evening, he rushed towards her and embraced her. "I've had the most wonderful evening, dearest! We must do this again some time!" He looked at her and registered a thoughtful look on her face.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

She entered his room closing the door securely. One look at his face told he that he was thrilled with how the evening had gone. She laughed as he rushed over to embrace her.

"I've had the most wonderful evening, dearest! We must do this again some time!"

She laughed.

"We must ... they had a great time. They all adore you ..."

She confirmed before realising that he held her at arm's length, aware as ever of her nuance of her mood.

" ... I'm not sure if liking you so much will make all this easier or more difficult..."

She confessed.

"I would hate to upset them ... and yet ... if we could be truly honest ... then things would be so much easier ... "

She could not help but share his pleasure at how the evening had gone though.

"You liked them? All of them though? Truly?"

She asked.

 

[Niceandbrutal]

"You liked them? All of them though? Truly?"

"Yes I did. I found them all posessing a sharp wit and some of them sharp tongues. They were not afraid to test me or scrutinize me. And they are all so lively! I felt myself warmed by pleasant company for the first time since... well, since she died."

He nodded at the picture of the iconic dead starlet.

"It's been far too long since I just had visitors for the pleasure of their company. If I seem elated now it's because I am."

His demeanor turned a little serious.

"I was especially moved by your friend Faye. She seems genuinely concerned for the both of us. Dawn was nice if a bit self-centered. Serena seems to me like a wild girl, waiting for the right man to tame her. Mel seems very sensual and confident, while Misha is waiting to blossom. When she does all men of the world better beware."

This was his assessment after his first impressions.

"Faye needs to be told at some point, I think. The others I think we can easily dupe with Faye on our side."

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

"Yes I did. I found them all posessing a sharp wit and some of them sharp tongues. They were not afraid to test me or scrutinize me. And they are all so lively! I felt myself warmed by pleasant company for the first time since... well, since she died."

Natasha looked at the picture of the beautiful woman only half listening to his evaluation of her friends.

"Faye needs to be told at some point, I think. The others I think we can easily dupe with Faye on our side."

She made no comment, but instead posed a question.

"Did you love her Benoit?"

She nodded towards the picture.

"She died young. Did she truly die, or was she turned...?"

It was obvious that this woman had played a significant part in Benoit's history, but just how significant was Natasha's query...