56 - ‘Come gentle night…’

“Wait a minute, why would things be interesting for me?” I looked at Marston and then shook my head in denial. “No. No way are you leaving Kemp here in my charge for longer than it takes him to heal. He needs his family despite what you said, not … not me.”

“I beg to differ, Trevor. What he needs is a friend who understands what he’s going through, as well as someone to mentor him. Which you have done very well so far.”

“I’ve taught him all that I know.”

And I have, at least about how to fight a vampyre and win. Sure I have life experiences that might come in useful to him but now is not the time for that. I pointed that out to the vampyre king.

Apparently Marston disagreed.

“I know much about you Trevor, what you’ve been through in your life.” Marston studied me with thoughtful eyes. “You lost your unborn child and that forced you almost to the brink of insanity.”

I felt deep anger that he knew about that. Before I could say anything however he held up his hand to stop me. “I know that that is not the same as loosing someone you love but at least you will know what Kemp is going to go through and can help him. That is more than I can do.”

I looked at him in surprise. “You’ve never lost someone you loved?”

He smiled sadly. “Several times, but that was long in the past. Besides, what child will really listen to advice on such things from a parent? Especially a parent who has been more absent than present in his life? No, you are the one he’ll need right now and I am leaving him in your charge.”

“Gee thanks.” I wanted to protest but deep inside I could understand his reasoning. I didn’t have to like it but I did understand. “Are you at least going to remain here until he’s awake again?”

“I will. But only to say good-bye and let him know that I love him. He knows where to find me should he want to.”

I smiled wryly. “Information that a lot of dhampirs would like to have.”

“Not that it would be of any use to them. I am well protected on many levels, as I’m quite certain you are aware.”

“Not personally,” I told him. “But rumor has it some have tried and failed to take you out. I’ll take that under advisement if I decide to try to be the one who does.” I laughed to let him know I was kidding.

He smiled in return. “Please do. I find you quite amusing and would hate to be responsible for your quick demise.”

“So not happening. I may be foolhardy but I’m not stupid.”

We continued to talk for a while longer. Then Marston left after asking me to notify him when Kemp finally woke.