Chapter 43. Thornton Heath

It didn’t take them long to reach Dracula’s private house in Thornton Heath. Lilith was hesitant to knock, but Dracula opened the door before she even had the chance to rethink why they were there.

“Enter.” He said flatly while peering out to the wilderness and the houses surrounding the suburban neighborhood. “I’ve been expecting you all. You don’t think anyone followed—do you?”

“I don’t believe so. No one knows why we are here—or at least they shouldn’t.” Lilith retorted.

“Ah, but they do, dearest. Keme visited me earlier this evening. He is looking for you.”

“I thought we were so careful.” 

Dracula longingly gazed into Lilith’s eyes and rested his hands on her shoulders.

“My darling, do not worry. I promised you long ago I would allow no one to hurt you.” He said and then raised her chin with his forefinger to have her trailing gaze meet his. “That promise still stands.”

“You don’t deserve my troubles.” She retorted as she placed a palm on