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Witches? Vampires, Antoine?

A Sequel to Come Here Marie
By LMVT

Disclaimer: This story is fictional. The character of Antoine Laconte is owned by Harris Goldberg and Rob Schneider. No infringements intended. All other characters are owned by the author.

This story is rated PG-13

“This is Antoine”, he answered after he activated his cellular. Antoine sat in the office he decided to maintain at the new firm.

“Hi. When are you coming home?” asked Marie, as it was about midnight. “I’m in bed waiting impatiently.”

“Todos and Tito are bringing the owner of the building over. I thought I told you that Cara?” he said as he drank his Chivas almost positive he had.

“I don’t think so. It doesn’t matter anyway. Why so late for a meeting?” she inquired sipping her Pino Griggio as she watched Jay Leno.

“I suppose he’s like us and has later hours. Did Umberto get my collection set up?” he asked as the decorator was to house his Medieval weapons in the large room off the study that day.

“Yeah! It looks great. But he re-painted the walls this morning. Two are black and the other two dark green. Then he stenciled in some kind red design to surround each weapon. I don’t know! It’s hard to explain. You have to see it” she replied. “Johnny Depp just came on. Got to go. Bye. Bye.”

His wife and her TV he remarked to himself as he heard voices now coming from the hallway. Antoine got up and went to the desk where Hanna would sit when she worked for him part-time now and she was still there doing some proposals for him.

“Why don’t you go home”, he said to her. “I don’t like you driving this late at night Hanna.”

Hanna drank the last of her glass of wine he had given her from the bar she kept stocked, a courtesy she also performed for Marie. She was enjoying working half days with the Mrs. and the other half with the Mr. and she was being paid very well, so she did not mind the late hours. Marie was only going in the office three times a week now and the rest of the time in the office Umberto had set up at home. Antoine had the same routine liking his place on Wilshire but also enjoying his time working along side his wife in Malibu.

“Hi Tito” she smiled as the brother’s approached, as she was a bit hung up on him.

“Hello to you too” stated Todos laughing as it was apparent the girl liked Tito better.

“You look nice today” Tito finally acknowledged her but she was not his type, as he liked blonds like Marie. “I need a drink Antoine.”

“Yeah, come on in” he replied and went back in to the office with his friends close behind.

“I’ll see you tomorrow!” shouted Hanna as she gathered her bag to leave.

“Bye! Bye!” shouted her employer back and then she left. “So when is this guy coming?”

“He and his wife should be here any minute”, stated Todos. “His secretary said she attends all his business meetings. He keeps even more bazaar hours then my brother and me.”

“His girl called us at three in the morning to confirm” laughed Tito as Antoine handed him a scotch and then his brother. “We couldn’t find out anything about him either. Not about his corporation. Not about anything.”

“The Delphi Corporation has nothing on the information highway. If it weren’t for the fact you transferred money every year to their bank for the lease there would have been no way I would have found it” exclaimed Todos as he stood up now. “I should go wait up front for them.”

“Good idea” remarked Antoine who was now very curious. He watched as Todos left then turned his attention to Tito. “I was thinking of buying the apartment you said was available in your building.”

“Great! Marie would love spending some time now and then in Rio. I could probably make a deal for eight or nine million. Do you want me to see what I can do?” asked Tito.

“Yeah, I want to give her the place as a wedding gift. She keeps on mentioning your apartment and Rio. I still feel bad about what happened. Anyway, I want to spend part of our honeymoon down there. Finally get a chance to show her around” Antoine remarked.

“A couple weeks at Lake Como and then Rio sounds like a good time. You know me! I couldn’t spend that much time around a dull place like that” chuckled Tito. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean you like dull places.”

“It is dull, but it’s a good place to start a honeymoon. The bedroom is the only place I’m interested in there”, Antoine laughed. “Then we can have some fun in Rio.”

“It’ll be cooler in June and July too. They’re coming” Tito said as he turned around to see his brother walk through the door and then the man and his wife.

Todos had a wide smile on his face and he shook his head as he came through the door. Antoine looked at him first and then at the couple and then started smiling himself and trying to contain his laughter. Tito jumped up totally surprised with his mouth wide open. The man was young and no more than thirty. He was dressed very trendy in black with a long black overcoat that matched his chin length black hair. What everyone was so shocked about was the white face makeup he wore quite heavily and the black eye shadow and black lipstick he also donned. His wife was no different as she wore very tight black slack, a blouse and a robe like concoction. Her hair was bright red and went down straggling to her waist and she had on the same white paint on her face and the same black shadow and lipstick.

“I’m Stefan Delphi and this is my wife the High Priestess Loa of the Delphi Coven” he introduced themselves as he came up to shake Antoine’s hand, which felt cold to the Italian.

“I’m Antoine Laconte and these are my associates. Todos and Tito Ziraldo from Rio de Janeiro. Please set down”, Antoine said as he gave a “look” to Tito who he could hear starting to giggle like Marie would if she were here.

The man helped his wife in to one of the seats in front of the desk and then sat himself adjusting his long coat. Antoine remained standing as Todos and Tito sat.

“Would you like something to drink?” he asked.

“I only drink blood. But my wife will have a glass of white wine” Stefan said with a very straight face.

“You only drink blood?” asked Antoine thinking the man was putting him on but Stefan’s face told him he was not teasing.

“Yes. I’m a vampire Mr. Laconte”, the young man said and Tito started giggling and quickly left the room.

“Don’t mind my friend Mr. Delphi. He’s never met a vampire before. I just thought you were a Gothic” Antoine stated still hearing Tito.

“That’s all right. Not many people have. But my wife and I are Gothic’s too. We own a few nightclubs around LA. I was thinking tomorrow night you and your wife would be our guest at our place on Sunset. It’s two blocks down from your restaurant” Stefan now smiled.

“The Full Moon is your place?” he asked having experienced it once with a kinky client of his.

“Yes. It was the first Gothic in LA” Stefan said proudly. “Meet us there at midnight. We would like to meet Mrs. Laconte first before we conclude any business deal.”

“My Father took a liking to this building and he’s authorized me to make you an offer” Antoine now got down the business. “How much is it worth to you Mr. Delphi?”

“Call us Stefan and Loa. Anyway, I’d consider parting with it for fifteen million with one condition” Stefan said.

“What condition?” asked Antoine getting up and pouring himself more Chivas.

“That my wife can keep her offices on the thirteenth floor for her Coven. And that she’s allowed to continue her monthly ceremonies on the roof” stated the young man.

“I didn’t know witch’s covens had offices”, laughed Antoine briefly and Loa smiled back now.

“We have a business selling charms, potions and other things via the internet. This is our headquarters and we have a warehouse in the City of Commerce” Loa stated finishing her wine. “I have people that work during the day and some at night. And our ceremonies are always after midnight so we’ve never bothered anyone.”

“I don’t see any problem with that. Todos and his brother are my real estate experts. I’d like them to hire the necessary people to check the building out if that’s ok?” questioned Antoine. “Then I’ll see if fifteen is a good price. Fair enough?”

“Far enough” Stefan replied getting up with his wife to leave. “We’ll see you and your wife tomorrow at midnight.”

Antoine stood up now and nodded, as did Todos who had said nothing the whole time. Tito came in as his brother showed the couple out and down the hallway to the elevator and then returned. Tito started to giggle again as Antoine now laughed.

“We don’t have anything like that in Brazil”, laughed Todos now. “Did you see his makeup? Does he honestly think he’s a vampire?”

“Yeah, I think he does”, laughed Antoine. “I’ve heard there’s a group that actually have their teeth fixed and drink blood.”

“I wonder if they sleep together in a king sized coffin? In the daytime?” giggled Tito as he grabbed his glass off the table. “Do you think the woman has a Mercedes or a broom stick?”

“You must be a vampire too Tito. You always get up when the sun sets”, laughed Todos slapping his brothers back.

“Well, I spend my nights dancing not sucking someone’s blood”, giggled Tito in return. “Do you think he actually does that Antoine?”

“What the hell are you asking me? He probably gets it from a blood bank or something” Antoine replied. “The guy’s just eccentric!”

“I think he and his wife are f..in crazy!” stated Todos. “Maybe you should forget about this building!”

“My father wants the building. I don’t care what those two do for their entertainment. Anyway, I want to get home so let’s get out of here” he exclaimed and they all walked out.

They had all laughed making some pretty funny remarks but Antoine knew the Delphi’s were very serious about their lifestyle and their businesses. He wanted to know more about this Stefan Delphi and his corporation and he would enlist Marie to find out about his High Priestess wife. He could not wait to get home to tell her about what he had just experienced so he bid his friends good night when they got to the parking lot and quickly left. The drive home took little time, as Wilshire Boulevard was virtually empty at one-thirty in the morning as he drove west. He took a right at the end where the ocean was and headed up Coast Highway twenty miles to where their house was then made a left in to their driveway. He opened the garage with his door opener and parked the Lamborghini his wife had acquired for him initially and he paid for later. Most of the lights were on still, waiting for his arrival and so was the security alarm, which he deactivated to enter. He pressed the intercom in the foyer.

“I’m home Marie!” he shouted and waited for her reply.

“Shit! You scared me!” she shouted back from across the bedroom as she still sat in bed watching TV.

“You told me to use this damn thing so I wouldn’t scare you!” he shouted back. “I wish the hell you’d make up you mind!”

He was half way down the stairs when he finished that remark but Marie still heard his booming voice. The house now looked like their home with the warmer look of the hunter green walls and carpets. The main fireplace was still flaming and it lit the living room he entered giving it a romantic glow and enhancing the cozy furniture Umberto chose in green, red and tan. Antoine looked around to see what was new as everyday his decorator seemed to add something to the décor. He saw today a new black statue of a nude woman bending backwards with long hair and he went up to examine it and give his approval. It was definitely something he would chose himself as it was large and elegant with an art deco look he was beginning to enjoy. He headed towards their bedroom and now stopped in the room his weapons collection had been placed and turned the light on to see what Marie had tried to explain. She had after all, done a good job conveying the essence of the room, which he stood in its center now. All the pieces had been meticulously hung with a red border behind each and against the dark green and black that alternated they appeared much more distinctive. Antoine was now looking forward to the small brass plates Marie had suggested Umberto have made that said what each one was, the year, where it was from and who it killed.

“Where are you?” shouted Marie now and he smiled not realizing he had spent so much time looking around.

“What are you in a hurry for some sex Cara?” he laughed as he strolled out of the room and back down the hall.

He came in the bedroom and saw her sitting up against the headboard wearing a pair of striking silk pajamas in a dark champagne color. She looked beautiful in that color which complimented her fair skin and hair and against the similar color of their satin comforter very appealing.

“I’ve got to get out of these clothes!” he stated taking his dark gray suit jacket off.

“Yes. I wish you would” Marie replied smiling at him. “I got you some new sleep shorts and robe.”

Antoine walked in to his separate wardrobe and saw them hanging at the front. “Yeah, I see them right up front Cara! Is this a hint you want me to wear them tonight?” He felt the silk fabric of the dark green robe that had red and tan paisley on it and he laughed knowing she had bought them because they coordinated with the décor.

“That was the idea! Do you like them?” she questioned. “I know you like light blue!”

Antoine finished undressing and put the shorts and robe on and then came out in to the room. He looked great with the darker color on his olive skin Marie thought as she turned the TV off finally watching her husband tend to the fireplace in their room and stoking it. They both enjoyed the fire during the cooler nights, as the furnace was not big enough for the house and the higher ceilings. That was another project he would have to see to later on but for now Antoine liked the subtle warmth it gave them and the way Marie responded when they sat by it. They had made love many times in front of it on the rug.

He now remembered that night and the unusual couple he had met. Antoine turned and brought the edge of his robe up covering his face showing only his deep brown eyes. He crept slowing towards Marie who looked at him quizzically.

“What the hell are you doing Antoine?” she snickered then took a sip of the Pino Griggio she was still working on.

“Look in to my eyes” he said in his lowest voice approaching her. “You are falling under my spell.”

“Are you suppose to be Dracula or something?” she smiled as he now stood over her. Marie couldn’t break the hold of his erotic gaze.

“I want to drink you blood”, he said now taking the robe away from his face, bending over and nipping at the right side of her neck.

Marie brought her arms up around him, bringing his body almost on top of hers. Antoine brought his full lips to hers and nipped at the top one, then began their hello kiss for the evening. He started to laugh unfortunately thinking about the Delphi’s and Marie gently pushed him away then brought her hand up touching the ends of his black hair.

“I know I can be funny. But really!” she laughed as he sat on the bed next to her now.

“I was thinking of the man and woman I met tonight. The owners of the building, Stefan Delphi and the High Priestess Loa, a vampire and a witch” stated Antoine smiling. “They even head groups of other witches and vampires in LA, Cara.”

“Witches? Vampires Antoine?” asked Marie laughing. “God! How many Chivas’s did you have with the boys?”

“I’m perfectly serious Marie” Antoine replied and she knew he was when he used her name. “He says he’s a vampire and his wife heads a group called the Delphi Coven. He owns the corporation and some Gothic places around town and she has a business selling witch stuff.”

“You mean he really believes he’s a vampire Antoine?” she inquired sitting up more. “You don’t believe in that kind of stuff do you?”

“Ofcourse not, but this Delphi thinks he is. I’ve got to get something to eat Cara. Come to the kitchen with me” he now said getting up taking her hands and pulling her off the bed. “I’ve heard of people like them” he continued to say as they went down the hallway. “There’s supposed to be a network. And that Gothic movement.”

“Yeah, I remember that X-Files when Mulder tried to protect a vampire woman. He got caught up with a group of them in LA” Marie said. “They were real vampires. These people are just nuts! You’re actually going to do business with him?”

They got to the kitchen and Marie went to the refrigerator getting some cold cuts out as her husband got a bottle of Pelligrino from the other frig. He got the Italian bread he liked out and took a knife slicing it for a sandwich while Marie unwrapped some cheese and ham then got a new jar of the special hot mustard he liked out of a cabinet.

“Todos and Tito are going to tell me if the building is worth the fifteen million this vampire wants. But first before I make a deal with him he and his wife want to meet you” Antoine now told her as she got a plate for him.

“Meet me? Why?” she asked and he shrugged his shoulders.

“I don’t know. Maybe it’s just something ghouls do”, he laughed picking up his bottle of water. “They want us to meet them at midnight tomorrow at his club on Sunset.”

“Does he own that weird place that’s painted black and gold out front?” Marie asked as she followed Antoine in to the living room. They sat on the sofa in front of the fireplace, which, was still going.

“Yeah, it’s called The Full Moon. I went once with a kinky client a few years ago” he stated taking a bite of his sandwich.

“A kinky client? Was she a Gothic?” Marie inquired waiting for his answer after he swallowed.

“No, just kinky. I cut the evening short because I’m not in to kinky” he stated and Marie laughed. “What?”

“You’re not in to kinky? What was it you wanted me to do while you hung upside down on your exercise bar?” she continued laughing as he smiled back shaking his head.

“God! You’re never going to let me forget that!” he laughed. “I was just joking!”

“Sure Hubby” she exclaimed leaning over kissing his mustard lips. “You taste hot!” Marie grabbed his water bottle taking a sip, as the mustard was indeed too hot for her.

“You’re not afraid to go are you?” he asked looking at her.

“No. Actually I’m curious. I have a nephew that’s kind of in to that stuff. He dresses like that and he just wrote a book about Werewolves. You don’t think they’re dangerous?” she remarked.

“I don’t know. I need to find out more about his corporation and I thought maybe you could concentrate on the High Priestess. Her company is on the thirteenth floor of the building and she has ceremonies on the roof once a month. The condition of this sale will be her remaining there doing her thing” Antoine responded.

“I think I’ll call Kathy in the morning. See if they have a criminal record. Then I can have some of the girls at work look in to the corporation. I thought Todos was supposed to do that?”

“He couldn’t find anything. I was hoping you had some contacts being a Corporate Attorney. We’ll go meet them tomorrow and see what happens” he stated.

“Did you decide what you want to do with Harris and his lawsuit?” Marie now asked as she had everyday since her husband was served two weeks ago. “I have to respond by Monday.”

“I’m going to call him myself and then talk to him face to face. Kathy says, the only way to prove I’m not the father, is to dig up the baby and have the DNA checked” he responded taking swig of his Pelligrino.

“I thought that’s what she’d say. That bothers you doesn’t it?” his wife interjected.

“Yes. Cara. That bothers me a lot. I’m going to try to settle this myself. Your cousin told me he’s been bent out of shape not just because of his sister, but because his own daughter is sick.”

“What’s wrong with her?” asked Marie coming closer to him and stroking his long wavy hair in the back. An intimate gesture he liked.

“She’s ten and has Leukemia. And apparently she needs a bone marrow transplant soon. Kathy talked to his boss and his insurance doesn’t cover the cost.”

“Are you going to give him the money?” Marie asked as he looked at the flames of the fire.

“Yes. I just haven’t decided how I’m going to do it. I don’t know if he’ll accept money from me after everything we’ve been through. Maybe I’ll just do it anonymously. I have to think about it” he replied. “Let’s get some sleep tonight Cara. You don’t mind do you? I’ll make it up to you tomorrow. After our encounter with the living dead.”

“Well you’ll have to start satisfying me then, and enough to keep me going without you when I go to Paris in a couple weeks. God! I can’t believe your Father talked me in to a wedding in France!” she stated as they walked hand in hand to their bedroom.

“We don’t have to have it there, Cara. But it’s a beautiful and very romantic place” he said softly bending down to kiss her neck.

“Oh, I know. I just don’t know anyone over there.”

“Who the hell do you know over here?” he laughed and she stopped and turned to him.

“What’s that suppose to mean? I know plenty of people. I have friends” she said irritated that he was right as she did not have that many. “Where are all yours?”

“Touche! You’re right I just have Todos and Tito. Anyway, you can have everyone fly over. I’ll pay. I just want you to enjoy yourself when you go over to start planning it. My Father will show you a good time too”, he stated.

“I wish you could come Antoine. I wanted to see more of Paris with you and Rio” Marie said softly as he took her in his arms.

“I know Cara. But we can do that on our honeymoon and then I have a surprise for you” he said with that erotic look appearing on his face.

Marie could feel her husband getting hard as he held her against him but she was curious now.

“What surprise is that?” she smiled seductively then brought his head down for a lingering kiss. He broke ever so slightly from her lips.

“I’m not going to tell you. You’ll have to torture me first” he replied as she kissed him again.

“So much for a good night’s sleep” she said coyly after as he looked down at her.

“I think little Antoine needs to visit little Marie after all”, he said in his deep erotic voice.

Marie broke away and grabbed his hand pulling him quickly towards their room.

“You know I think you should write a sexual phrase book”, she laughed. “Jesus! Little Antoine? Little Marie? Where the hell did you come up with that?”

Antoine laughed as they quickly took their clothes off throwing them on to the carpet.

“It just came to me” he replied now bringing his naked body close again to hers. “Like this is coming to you.”

He took hold of her backside and shoved his very aroused pelvis in to hers. Marie jumped up wrapping her legs around him and they kissed as Antoine brought her over to the bed.

“I am clever come to think of it”, he said as he set her back on the bed along with himself.

“Just shut up”, Marie stated and he did coming down to her for another kiss.

They spent the rest of the night working on some old and new moves with some sleep after dawn. Marie was like her husband now and she liked the daily sex making up for all the years she did have that much. Antoine enjoyed his wife totally and found her much to his surprise, open for just about anything he had in mind coming up with some unique things herself. Perhaps in the future things would cool down but for now they took advantage of their ongoing passion for each other.

“I forgot to put the alarm on last night” Antoine said as they sat in the kitchen having a breakfast Theresa made of eggs and bacon.

“I know. I’m having a hard time remembering myself. Not use to all this security stuff except at the office” Marie replied eating her cereal trying to get back on her diet as she had gained some weight. “Could you drive me to my office this morning?”

“Sure. What’s wrong with your car?” he inquired. “When was the last time you had it looked at Cara?”

“Look at? You mean you have to have it looked at?” she stated and her husband looked at her like she was a stupid.

“You’ve had it over a year! Haven’t you had the oil changed or the tires rotated!” he now shouted. “What the hell! You can’t drive the damn thing in to the ground!”

“I don’t see why not!” she stated back and then she laughed. “God! Take it easy. I’m just kidding Antoine. I took it in a while ago. Anyway, the brakes need to be checked they’re making a noise.”

“I’ll call my Mercedes dealer and have them pick it up today. Why don’t you take my other car?” he asked. “Never mind. I forgot you don’t like the stick shift. I’ll drive you in Cara. I have an appointment at my stylist then a meeting.”

“Yeah, you’re hair’s getting long. Don’t cut off too much though. I like it slightly below your shoulders” she remarked. “Are you free for a late lunch?”

“I was thinking the same thing. I’ll pick you up at two” he responded. “It sounds like Umberto’s here. What is he doing today?”

Theresa’s sister, their other maid had let the older man in and they heard him talking to her in Spanish. Then he entered the kitchen and answered the question himself.

“Good morning. I’m meeting the man from the art gallery. We’re going to place some of the painting you bought around the house.”

“What the hell took them so long?” Antoine exclaimed getting another cup of coffee. “Forget it! I’m going to call the dealer before it gets too late. Then get dressed. I want to leave in an hour Marie.”

“Ok” she replied watching him leave the kitchen. “Want some coffee?” she asked Umberto and he nodded. “What would you wear to a Gothic nightclub?”

“One of those places?” he laughed. “Black is always appropriate. I understand that’s what they all wear. Have you two been invited to one of those?”

“Yeah, the man who owns the building Antoine is trying to buy says he’s a vampire. He owns a place on Sunset and we’re supposed to meet him there tonight” she remarked.

“Maybe I know him. What’s his name?” Umberto questioned taking a few sips of coffee.

“Stefan Delphi. Ring a bell?” Marie questioned.

“No. I don’t know the man, but your husband is buying The Delphi Building on Wilshire? That’s a historical landmark. One of the first high rises in LA. Very impressive!” Umberto stated.

“That’s interesting. Antoine’s been trying to find out about this guy. Do you think you could get me more information on the building like the architect and the original owner? I don’t know. Just anything you can think of. I have an uneasy feeling about this whole thing,” she stated.

“What does your husband think?” he asked.

“I thought he’d get nasty and refuse to do business with him. He’s surprisingly open minded about it and just making jokes. I think these people can be dangerous though” Marie remarked looking at the clock that said nine-thirty. “I’d better get dressed.”

“I’ll try to get the information for you by the end of the day. I’d wear your black leather pants tonight with that black sweater” Umberto now interjected getting up with her and going in to the living room.

“Yeah, I was thinking the same thing” she replied leaving for the bedroom.

By ten they were out the door driving south along the coast enjoying the very sunny morning. The Pacific Ocean was a deep blue and the surf quite high bringing out more surfers that day. Many of them were coming up to their parked cars on the side of the road having finished their early morning rides. It was always a pleasant way to start the day both Antoine and Marie thought before getting in to the bustle of LA life.

“Why don’t you ask Kathy to go to Paris with you?” Antoine glanced over briefly to look at Marie.

Marie chuckled turning to meet his eye. “Are we on the same wavelength? I was thinking the same thing.” She saw his face get that quirky look. “Spare me another one of your witty sexual remarks.”

“But I had a good one. Ah well, I’ll keep it for tonight” he snickered looking back at the road.

Marie got her cellular out and phoned Kathy to not only suggest she come with her to Paris but also to get information on the odd couple. Kathy remarked that she thought Antoine wanted her along for some kind of protection against Jacques who was now in Paris. Marie agreed cryptically so her husband would not know what they had both been thinking. She was positive once he found out she was in the city he would make another move now because of some revenge for getting fired and being counter sued changing the venue of the case back to France where the courts would be tougher. Tougher because he was going against the Laconte’s.

Antoine dropped Marie off at her office and then drove to Rodeo to his stylist. An hour later he was going down Wilshire to the Delphi Building that was about ten miles from Century City. Marie went directly to her office and was greeted by Hanna with a cup of black coffee as she always did each morning. Only the mornings were beginning a bit later everyday for her Boss who had unusual hours like her husband.

“So what’s up for today?” asked Hanna as she sat in front of Marie’s desk with her pad and pen.

“I need information on a corporation called Delphi. It’s owned by a Stefan Delphi and I also need information on his wife” she started to say.

“Oh yeah. That’s about the building Antoine’s buying. What’s his wife’s name?” Hanna questioned seeing her boss smile now.

“The High Priestess Loa of the Delphi Coven. She’s a witch and she owns a business called Delphi Magic, Inc. She runs it out of the building. I want information on her and also on witches. We’re meeting them tonight and I want to be prepared” ordered Marie.

“Is he a witch too?” laughed Hanna writing all this down.

“No he’s a vampire” Marie replied drinking her coffee.

“Oh God! Not one of those! I’ll get you some information on the groups around LA that are in to that kind of stuff” stated Hanna.

“Do some research on vampires too Hanna. If this guy thinks he’s a real vampire I want to know what I’m dealing with”, she retorted.

“You have to phone Mr. Laconte about the suit against Tornoe and he’s found a wedding coordinator he wants your approval on” her secretary informed her. “Do you want me to get him on the line now? He’s probably just arrived home.”

“Yeah, please. Thanks Hanna” Marie told the younger woman.

At The Delphi Building Antoine met with four of the management team from Paris going over proposals for advertisement of the company. The needed to get their name out fast so he made quick decisions which he was finding he was quite good at. Antoine had excellent taste and he was going after a certain market that would appreciate an older and more established business that was now an offshoot of and even more established investment firm in Europe. Two of the men were experts in advertising and the campaign they came up with was brilliant Antoine thought and could be expedited more efficiently that if he had hired a local ad agency.

By one-thirty he was leaving to pick up his wife for lunch at Spagos but he took a detour and stopped at the thirteenth floor to see what a witch owned company looked like. Much to his amazement it was a very high- class outfit with a modern set of offices and very ordinary people working in them. He just strolled in as the receptionist was gone and looked over the large area that contained sectioned off cubby- holes with women sitting at computers like he supposed they did at QVC, another favorite channel Marie watched. Were they all witches he asked himself? That was one question he would ask the woman tonight. For now he picked up the small catalogue off the large reception desk which was still vacant and got in to the elevator and down to the lobby.

“Antoine!” shouted Todos as he and his brother came through the main doors with two men.

“Who are they?” he asked rudely walking up to his friends.

“These are the appraisers that I hired. They’re going to take a look around and see if the place is worth anything”, Todos laughed.

“I’m Carl Peterson and this is my son Mike. This building is listed as a historical landmark. Did you know that Mr. Ziraldo?” he asked. “How much does the buyer want for it?”

“Fifteen million” replied Antoine and he saw a peculiar look on both men’s faces. “What’s wrong? Is that too much?”

Carl laughed. “No. It’s too little for this place. I’ll look around and see if there are any problems to make the owner want to get rid of it so cheaply. We’ll start upstairs.”

“Wait a minute”, Antoine stated as the four were heading for the elevator. “I spoke to someone a while ago and she suggested getting someone to check the place out for. What would you say? Any supernatural things.”

He had spoken to Marie’s cousin Jean just after noon as she called straight from talking to his wife. She had an interest in the occult and those that followed it like witches and vampires. There was a group at UCLA she had heard that went in to places with special equipment to track down spiritual entities and such. Now he was thinking this might be a good idea, as the building itself seemed to be reaching out to him on some level. Antoine had not paid attention before but now after meeting the Delphi’s, it felt different and when he was sitting in his office he could have sworn the walls were calling him and it was beginning to freak him out.

“Like Ghostbusters?” giggled Tito but the Peterson’s did not laugh.

“No asshole!” shouted Antoine back to Tito. “She said there was a group at UCLA that looked in to places like this. The owner says he’s a vampire and his wife is a witch. She also said that the places witches have their ceremonies are special.”

“You think they’re something evil Antoine? I wonder if she’s an evil witch?” asked Todos now not laughing.

“What the F… do I know?” he replied. “But this place was freaking me out today. I need a drink. Anyway, see if you can get this group out. I’ve got to go get Marie for lunch. Bye. Bye.”

Todos and Tito followed the two appraisers up to the roof to start the inspection and they were shocked when they arrived. In the middle of the roof was a large red pentagram that they all knew was used for ceremonies in the occult. Carl Peterson went up and stood over one of the points and knelt down to examine the red paint then he got up and turned to the others.

“I think this is blood!” he said shocked.

Antoine got in his Lamborghini and felt the pocket of his light gray suit jacket for the small gift he had for Marie. He drove up the boulevard getting constant looks from men who admired his black sports car to women who admired him. The Lamborghini Diablo was not a convertible but he loved it none- the- less and he often referred to Marie, that is was his half-million dollar car. That was another thing he was not going to let her forget and he teased her with that fact a lot. Marie knew he loved what she had done in taking such a chance so she just laughed whenever he said it.

Marie had always thought Antoine was a gentleman even when she first met him. He opened doors for her, ordered meals, helped her on and off with coats, jackets, sweaters and when he came for her at the office he made the trip up to get her. Now he was too familiar with her place that he walked by Marie’s receptionists and straight to her office. But it always played out where he stood at the door and shouted.

“Let’s go!” He watched as Marie got off the line and stood up getting her handbag.

“I tried calling your cellular but you weren’t picking up” she stated approaching him.

“The only call I got Cara was from Jean. When did you try me?” he asked bending down to kiss her lips quickly.

“About one. Anyway, Kathy called and said Harris’s daughter was taken to emergency and she needs the operation right now” she stated as Antoine checked his cellular for a problem. “Are you listening to me? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing. So I need to get the money over to the hospital?” he remarked.

“Already done. I phoned the hospital administrator and made arrangements. Anonymously on your behalf” Marie replied as they walked out hand in hand to the elevator. “Kathy also had her contact at the DMV run the Delphi’s names through their database. The wife checked out ok. Nothing unusual, but Stefan’s date of birth showed as 1940.”

“They make mistakes all the time. He’s no more than twenty- eight or nine. 1940? That would make him sixty. Vampires are always hundreds of years old” he laughed now as they got in the elevator.

“Well, he could be a new vampire!” Marie laughed. “Like the nouveau riche in LA. He could be a nouveau vampire.”

“When was the High priestess born?” he asked now.

“1974” Marie replied. “And neither of them have been arrested.”

“Let’s drop the subject for now and have a nice lunch. I thought we’d go shopping on Rodeo after. Are you free Cara?” Antoine asked helping her in to the very low car.

“Sure” she replied enthusiastically before he closed her door, as Marie always had a good time with him shopping. It was getting to be spring and she needed to start getting her wardrobe together for the season.

They got to Spagos and sat amidst all the business people, shoppers and those that were there to see celebrities. Antoine ordered a bottle of Marie’s favorite Pino Griggio as he was beginning to like white wines himself. He looked over at Marie across the table from him and he felt like the luckiest man having such a woman to love. Here she was with him looking even more becoming than she was when he first sat with her in the lounge of the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. She was a lady then and a lady now, the way she held herself and her manners. A lady everywhere but in their bedroom which he liked.

The wine was served and Marie took her first sip as she watched Antoine reach in to his jacket and bring out a small ring case. She looked as he opened it and turned it around to show her.

“I’ve decided I’m going to propose to you. But I’m still now getting on my knees” he said giving her that smiley, erotic look of his as he tilted his head. “I can’t ask you to marry me because that’s already done. But I can tell you again that I love you. And that I want you in my life always.”

By this time everyone sitting around was watching the couple. It was obvious this was something special he was doing since the handsome man mentioned they were already married. Now everyone waited to hear what the blond woman was going to say. Marie was overcome by Antoine and his public display as he was talking as loudly as ever. The ring was a beautiful oval cut diamond about two carats with smaller diamonds on each side set in platinum. Antoine had purchased it at Tiffany’s as the small box held its logo.

“I love you Antoine. I’m very proud to be your wife. Heaven for me is being with you always” she said starting to weep as he reached over taking her left hand, removing the amethyst and putting the new ring on. “It’s the most beautiful ring I’ve ever seen.”

“I wanted you to have your own ring”, he said and then everyone around started to clap.

Both turned to look around at the other patrons smiling as Marie wiped her moist eyes gaining control of herself by sipping her wine. The maitr’d brought over a good bottle of Perrier-Laurent Champagne compliments of Spagos to celebrate as the couple were regulars. And after polishing both bottles off and their food, Antoine and Marie were too relaxed for anything other than a stroll down Rodeo with stops at Hugo Boss and Armani. Several hours had passed and many thousand dollars were spent before the couple drove off from Beverly Hills towards home to prepare for their evening’s adventure.

“Hanna faxed over some information she got on vampires and witches Antoine. But nothing on the Delphi Corporation” she said coming in the living room as Antoine was saying hello to his fish and feeding them. “I was thinking maybe Giovanni could find out something. You now with his connections.”

“That’s a good idea Cara”, he said going over to the bar and pouring a scotch and glass of white wine. “The artwork looks good!” he stated handing her a glass as he looked around.

“Yeah, Umberto has a knack for placement. I’m glad we used him”, she said as Antoine grabbed his cellular from his jacket he had taken off and sat next to her.

He phoned his mob partner and asked him to look in to Delphi and like everyone else Giovanni had not heard of him or his company. He was however familiar with the Gothic nightclubs and warned Antoine to proceed with caution knowing quite a few members were in to satanic worship. Giovanni like Antoine was Catholic and the mention of Satan brought shivers to both men. Antoine ended his conversation and decided not to get in to that aspect with his wife just yet, as he did not wish to frighten her. He watched her reading the faxes and when he inquired Marie started to tell him everything Hanna found out. About witches, good and bad. Vampires. How they became the undead and how to kill one. How to hunt one and what to look for. Antoine did not have to mention Satan to Marie. After reading all of this she was convinced he was present.

“I thought we’d have dinner at Cote d’Azur at ten then walk over to the club. I don’t want to park my half-million dollar car there”, Antoine said smiling with his eyes wide when Marie turned to give him that “look” of hers.

“Jesus Christ” she said laughing and jumping up from the sofa. “You sound like a f…in broken record” she said under her breath. “I’m going to get dressed!”

“What was that Cara?” he asked laughing getting up himself ever the tease with her. But he had heard her use the “f” word, which, she never did so perhaps he had teased her about this more than enough.

Antoine and Marie both put on their black leather pants and sweaters. Antoine in a turtleneck that was very appropriate for not getting bit by a vampire he laughed to himself and Marie in a tight mohair that showed some cleavage. Marie had just bought a bright red leather car coat that her husband helped her on with then he put his black one on. They left by nine-thirty to make the drive back in to town and on to Sunset Boulevard. Both were quietly thinking about the day but mostly about the Delphi’s until Antoine’s cellular went off breaking the silence.

“This is Antoine” he answered as he drove.

“It’s Todos. I’ve been trying your cellular since seven. Where have you been?” shouted Todos.

“I’ve been right here! What the hell do you want?” he replied irritated with his phone but reflecting it on his friend.

Marie placed a calming hand on his right arm and squeezed it. Antoine turned and nodded.

“Sorry Todos. I’ve had problems with my cell all day” Antoine now said calmly.

“The appraisers called me and Peterson said the building with its structure and historical value is worth in the range of thirty to forty million”, Todos stated. “You need to be careful Antoine. And you need to find out why this guy is willing to sell so cheap.”

“Yeah, I’ll do that. What about the people from UCLA?” he now inquired.

“That’s right! I forgot! They’re coming to take a look the day after tomorrow. Friday. The thirteenth” replied Todos. “Do you want Tito and me to come with tonight? To the club?”

“Did you tell him about the blood?” asked Tito coming in to the room where his brother was. Todos shook his head but Antoine had overheard Tito.

Tito grabbed the cellular and started talking excitedly. “We found one of those satanic symbols on the roof Antoine. It was made with blood!”

“Get Todos back on the cell Tito!” Antoine shouted. “What the hell did he mean?”

“There’s a very big pentagram in the center of the roof. Peterson said it was painted with blood. I was just thinking we should have it tested. You know, to see if it’s human”, Todos said. “Anyway, do you want us to come to the club?”

“No. You two will stick out too much” he laughed as he was getting too serious and Marie was following suit. “If this guy’s up to no good I don’t want to get him more worked up by having you two there!”

Antoine looked over at Marie now as he stopped at a red light. She mouthed the words “what’s going on?” with a very concerned expression.

“I’ll call you when we get home. Bye. Bye” he said cutting the conversation short so he could tend to his wife. “We’ll talk at the restaurant over some champagne”, he now said as he reached over to caress her cheek with the back of his hand.

“Why not now?” she asked getting rather nervous.

“Because the subject of vampires, witches and Satan goes better with a glass of champagne Cara”, he replied smiling then he took her left hand and kissed her new ring.

Antoine got on to Sunset and drove up passing the nightclub, seeing the line of people out front waiting to get in. They were all dressed in Gothic style both observed, as he made an illegal U-turn in the center of the boulevard reminiscent to Marie of his driving in Rome. After scouting it out they headed back to the restaurant and parked in the back in his reserved spot. The place was busier for the weekdays as it was Wednesday and date night from the look of the couples seated as they passed to their private table in the back. Marie reflected later that the buzz of the champagne did make all the ominous talk go down better but she was still worried.

“I don’t think it’s worth it Antoine. I want you to forget about the building”, she stated.

“How can I do that Marie? Laconte Investments is there. My Father wants the building. What am I going to tell him? That I got scared off by a freak who thinks he’s a vampire?” Antoine replied. “He’ll think I’m a damn fool!”

“I know. I just don’t want you getting hurt that’s all” Marie said softly.

“There’s just something about that building. I can’t explain it but I have to find out what’s going on. Tonight’s just a social thing. No serious talk. Can you do this with me Cara?” he asked gently. “I need you to be the cool, calm Marie for me tonight.”

“Ofcourse. I’m letting my imagination run away” she replied. “We’ll go hear what he has to say and have a good laugh after.”

Dinner was finished and it was quarter until midnight when they left Cote d’Azur strolling up the sidewalk towards the club. They crossed the boulevard at the intersection before and then made their approach going to the head of the crowd. Antoine led Marie gripping on to her left hand and went up to the doorman whose face was made up white with black markings and the same black lipstick everyone else was wearing. Except Marie who wore red, as he briefly kissed her lips before he spoke to the doorman.

“Are you a vampire?” the large man asked Antoine very seriously.

“No. I’m Italian. We’re hear to meet Delphi” Antoine said with that quirky look of his and Marie laughed.

The man opened the door and let them in and both took a quick look around. They were the only ones not dressed Gothic as Antoine continued leading his wife through the sea of men and women. The center was a dance floor that was packed with Gothic’s dancing to Gothic music that was coming from a live bank at the back of the club. Around the sides were two bars and tables to sit and they were filled to over capacity.

“Mr. and Mrs. Laconte” stated a young man who approached them. “The Delphi’s are waiting for you. Please follow me.”

“You’re the only blond here”, whispered Antoine to Marie as they followed behind. “You’re probably the only one with blood too.”

Marie started to giggle, loosening up a bit and she leaned in to him whispering.

“But you’re not a vampire. You’re Italian. Remember? Just watch your neck.”

The finally saw the couple sitting and the closer they got Stefan now stood up smiling. Marie noticed right off that his two teeth had been altered so they pointed as she shook hands with him. After brief introductions Antoine helped Marie in to a chair by Stefan than sat down next to her. A waiter came over and Antoine ordered a glass of wine and a scotch that were served quickly as they were guests of the owner. Marie kept looking at the glass of red liquid Stefan was drinking and the way it coated his lips she knew it was blood.

“Do you drink human or animal blood Mr. Delphi” she had to ask and he laughed.

“I like your guts in asking me right off. Call me Stefan. May I call you Marie?” she nodded the he continued. “It’s human blood. We get it from the blood bank. Illegally.”

“How many clubs do you own?” asked Antoine sipping his scotch.

“I have two in LA, one in Thousand Oaks and another in Pasadena” replied Stefan.

“Pasadena? Antoine’s opening a restaurant there next month. Where’s your place?” questioned Marie.

“It’s on the other side of the freeway. You’d be surprised how many Gothic’s live around the area”, the young man stated.

“That’s where we met”, stated Loa now who was rather quiet. “I use to go there with friends and I fell for Stefan right away.”

“How long have you been married?” inquired Antoine sitting back relaxing realizing there was not going to be any serious discussions this night.

“Almost ten years. Loa started her Coven right after and became High Priestess” he replied. “She’s having her next ceremony Friday, Marie. You should come. I mean as an observer.”

“What time?” Marie asked and she kicked Antoine who was starting to laugh making a good save getting back to just smiling.

“At midnight” stated Loa. “Join us if you can. Call my office and let me know when you decide Marie.”

“OK. Why do you have the ceremonies at that particular building? I was doing some research and I understand the place has to be sacred or something”, Marie asked.

“Marie” said Antoine trying to make her stop.

“It’s all right Antoine”, said Loa. “You’ve done your homework. The Delphi Building is special. It has an energy that allows us to communicate.”

“Communicate with who?” questioned Antoine as he ran his fingers through his hair.

Marie saw this nervous gesture he made and knew he was beginning to get freaked out again.

“That you’ll have to come and find out”, replied Loa coyly and Marie knew she was being baited.

Marie took her compact out to put some lipstick on and powder her nose. She looked at herself and when she finished looked at the reflection of the people in the background. Antoine saw a strange look come on her face as she calmly closed the black compact and put it away.

“It’s two. We should get going”, stated Antoine to Marie who nodded.

Stefan looked at Loa who nodded her approval.

“I think we can do business. I’d like you to meet my board of directors tomorrow. We’re meeting at my home”, exclaimed Stefan standing now along with the couple.

“Sure. Where do you live? And what time?” he questioned.

“We live at Falcons Lair. Up in the hills from here. I’ll have my assistant call you with the address and directions” he stated.

“Wasn’t that Rudolph Valentino’s place?” asked Marie.

“Yes. You know your landmarks Marie!” replied Stefan. “I’d invite you but this deal is between your husband and me. No offense.”

“None taken. Well, it was nice meeting both of you” she stated then Antoine bid them good night.

They left quickly and started walking faster towards the now closed Cote d’Azur and to the car. Marie was silent and after Antoine got her settled in the Lamborghini and got behind the wheel he turned to her.

“I know something happened back there, Cara! Don’t lie to me! I saw it in you face!” he was shouting for some reason.

“You’re going to think I’m crazy! When I looked in the mirror of my compact I didn’t see everyone” she stated.

“What do you mean?” he asked looking strangely at her.

“I mean I didn’t see the reflection of half the people that were behind me. God! I’m flipping out! There is no such things as vampires!” she reaffirmed to him and herself.


THE END
(of Part 1)