Claimed by the Prince of Darkness novel Chapter 16

Chapter 16: You don't know me

Saturday arrived quicker than expected for the Elites. Meanwhile, for the Groundlings, the week felt like an eternity under the weight of serving the vampires and living under their constant shadow. Now, the students gathered beside the carriages that were destined for various towns.

"Best wishes to your sister and her husband-to-be. I hope you enjoy the celebrations!" Hailey said warmly, having decided to visit her grandfather before heading home.

"Thank you. I hope you have a safe journey," Ruelle replied with a smile, having come to bid Hailey farewell.

As Hailey rummaged through her satchel, she said, "I think Kevin wanted to attend your sister's wedding."

Ruelle blinked, the meaning of Hailey's words passing over her like the gentle breeze that stirred her hair. "He does seem interested in gatherings. He was talking about the soiree two days ago."

Hailey laughed at this, realising how Ruelle missed the point. She replied, "He does seem sociable, but I think it wasn't that. Not to mention, you gave him homework."

"That's because he has a lot of catching up to do before the tests," Ruelle explained, determined to help him succeed.

Hailey was about to say something when she suddenly pulled out a handkerchief and exclaimed, "How did I pick up Blake's kerchief?"

"Get inside the carriage! We're leaving now," the coachman announced, casting an impatient look their way.

"Wait! I need to return this!" Hailey said, her eyes widening in alarm.

The coachman shot her a sharp glance. "The carriage moves with or without you. Shouldn't have wasted time chitchatting, huh?"

"You can return it on Monday when you're back," Ruelle suggested, aware that once the carriages departed, there wouldn't be another heading in the same direction.

Hailey shook her head, worry creasing her brow. "I would, but I know Blake cherishes this one and never leaves without it. It's important to her."

"How about I return it for you? I still have a few spare minutes before I leave," Ruelle offered. Seeing Hailey's concern, she added, "I'll be very careful with it."

Hailey hesitated for a moment, and asked, "Would you really? I know it's not much, but Blake can be... particular about her things."

"It's no trouble," Ruelle assured her with a soft smile. "I'll bring it to her."

"Thank you, Ruelle," Hailey said, gratefully handing over the kerchief before quickly clambering inside. Moments later, the horses pulled the carriage away, wheels clattering on the cobblestones.

Ruelle watched Hailey's departure with a smile, then turned toward the direction where the Elites' magnificent carriages were parked. Now, where was Hailey's roommate's carriage?

She scanned the area before deciding to walk past the Elites' fancy carriages. Each one stood out in its splendour, making the local carriages look ordinary by comparison. Vampires and vampiresses glanced at her suspiciously, wondering why someone like her was among them.

Finally, she spotted the senior vampiress and quickened her pace, only to slow down again when she noticed the midnight-haired vampire standing next to her. Lucian and Blake were deep in conversation, and Ruelle's heart raced as she approached, holding the kerchief tightly in her hand.

"Senior Blake?" Ruelle called out slightly breathless, to gain both of their attention. She could feel the searing gaze coming from Lucian, which she tried to avoid. She offered a deep bow, and she raised the kerchief, "This is yours. Hailey wanted me to return this to you. She picked it up by mistake."

Blake's red eyes flickered toward the handkerchief in Ruelle's hand, and for a brief moment, something like relief crossed her face. She stepped forward, her movements graceful as ever.