I had woken up a little earlier then usual, I had arranged with Rose to collect Ana so she could help me put up the decorations today.

With my morning rituals completed I put on a black oversized vest top, my usual jewellery and glasses.I let my wavy hair loose and slip on my black vans and leave the room. The excitement in me was growing as I made my way to meet her.

Instead of meeting her at the entrance she had begged me to come and collect her form her room.

Hunter had given me a brief yet detailed description of where there room was. It had only taken me a few minutes to reach my destination.

I was about to knock the door when in opened revealing a very presentable Rose.

"Hello Rogue" she greeted as she opened the door wider and stepped to the side.

"Good morning Rose" I replied

"Good morning Rogue, how are you today?" Hunter greeted.

"I'm fine thank you and yourself?"

"Very well"

"Anastasia hasn't stop talking about today, she even picked out a special 'decorating outfit'" Rose stated

"I'm sorry I didn't think she would get that excited" I reply feeling a little guilty

"Don't be stupid, id rather she was excited to do something instead of being stuck in here all the time" Hunter added

"I'll just go and check on her, God knows what that maniac is doing" Rose joked as she left the room leaving me with Hunter.

"So how are things with you and Ivan ? "He questions

"Uh...good....great actually" I reply a little caught of guard.

"That's good to hear"

"Yeah"

"Are you being safe?" He questions. My eyes almost pop out of my head as I choke on my previous breath.

Did he just ask me if me and Ivan were being safe.. Does he mean like condoms and stuff. Only this would happen to me, oh god Ivan's going to laugh his head off when he finds out. What do I say?!? I can't ignore him he's going to think I'm a sex addict or something. The walls felt like they were closing as I shift my weight from one foot to the other.

"Errrr...well umm...ummm...I uh...we haven't actually....you know....we are taking things slow but -" my words left my mouth in jumbles and stutters.

"Oh Jesus no, I didn't mean it like that Rogue" Hunter had cut me off a small smile was on his face my stupidity was clearly amusing to him.

"I'm so so so sorry, I didn't even think about the question" I begin to babble out apologies In attempt to restore some dignity.

"Don't worry about it, I should of been more specific with my choice of words"

Right now nothing seems more appealing then jumping of the balcony. My eyes are everywhere apart from him, Rose really was taking her time.

"What about his powers? Have you noticed anymore?" He asked changing the subject. I clear my throat before answering.

"Not really, I haven't noticed any and he hasn't mentioned any to me. But I him saying something about seeing the oracle for answers a couple of weeks ago"

"The oracle? The one in the forest?" He asks

"I don't know the specifics but I guess so" I shrug

"That old bag of dust isn't worth the crap of my shoes, he's nothing but a joke a minipulaing, cheating, sneaky joke, I don't understand why Ivan has him around. Stay away from him Rogue he will only get into your head" his mood had switched, the aggravation was evidently clear on his face.

His words were like fuel to a fire, you can't sit there and tell me there's a crazy ,lunatic man hiding in the forest and expect me to stay away from him, yeah right 'visit oracle' is next on my to do list.

"Wha-" I was about to reply when an all to familiar voice filled the room.

"Rolo!"

"Ana!" I kneeled down and pulled the little body into mine.

"Are you excited ?" I question despite already knowing the answer.

"Yes, yes, yes let's go" she unwraps he arms from around my neck and grabs my hand.

"By mummy and daddy" she says without looking back.

"I'll see you later" I mange to say.

"Good Bye Rogue" Replied Rose

"Stay safe Rogue" I almost broke my neck in attempt to look at Hunter, who was wearing a smirk similar to Ivans. The embarssment made me walk faster as I scooped up Ana and paced down the hall.

The walk back to Ivan's quarters was short, the sweet voice of ana made the time fly past.

I put her down on the floor and she ran straight to Ivan's room. I still hadn't seen Ivan since last night, the way he had reacted to my touch had made me smile but it left me feeling uneasy as I waited to see how he was this morning.

I emptied out the bags on the floor and sorted the decorations out into piles.

She shortly returned alone and we began to decorate. She placed the different ornaments and decorations around the room whilst I started the tree, I had helped her with the parts she couldn't reach and then she returned the favour by helping me with the tree.

It took us about two hours to put up all the decorations, once it was all done we were both spread out on the floor. Looking around the room I was more then satisfied, it looked amazing, all the golds,whites and silvers made it really feel like Christmas.

I got up from the floor to dispose of all the rubbish, when I returned Ana was no longer there. Before I had time to worry and panic her giggles were heard from the other room, quickly reassuring me.

We had spent the rest of the day together, we played games, occasionally Ivan would come out of his room and leave the quarters to later on return with paperwork and folders.

It was was getting late and Ana was getting tired. So I took her back to her room, Rose and Hunter both had thanked me then went on state they were looking forward to Christmas Day with us.

I sat on the chair in the well decorated living room, today's activities had drained me out and I was feeling tired.

"Someone's tired" I look up and Ivan was standing a few feet in front of me with a bag in his hand.

"Oh Crap I forgot to give that to Colt" I stand up and walk towards Ivan. He holds out the bag and I go take it, I grab the handle but he doesn't let go. I look up to him and try again but his grip remained.

"Ivan?"

"You're not allowed to walk around the mansion alone remember"

"Then come with me" I suggest

He waits a few seconds before letting go of the bag, he walks towards the door and holds it open for me.

I stay a few feet behind him making sure to make my self familiar with my surroundings.

This surrounding were similar to the rest of the mansion, paintings hung on the walls, chandeliers hung from the ceiling. The mansion was so modern and well kept, there wasn't a spec of dirt in sight. There was a long hall at the end was where the other royals were staying.

Just like most of the places in here there was a huge door separating the important from the irrelevant. The doors were pushed open and we walked in.

I continued to follow him, making sure not touch anything.

"Where is everyone?" I ask

"It's almost one, they've all probably gathered in the lounge area" he replies

"How many royals live here?"

"Only about 30" he shrugged like it was nothing.

"30 vampires, this place is a lot bigger than I thought"

"Most of them haven't found there mates yet, when they do they normally leave and only return when we have events or gatherings"

"Why are they called royals?" I ask

"There older, some are from the elders blood line, some have just proven themselves worthy of that title" he replies.

I can start to hear talk and movement ahead of me. I start to grow anxious, this was there home and I didn't exactly feel welcome in here.

Men were talking to one another but as soon as I was noticed it stopped. They stared at me like I was a wild animal.

"Are you still feeding tonight?, th-" One of the vampires asked Ivan

Ivan cleared his throat and stared at the man, his voice died down as he looked from Ivan to me. I had grasped the thought that Ivan didn't want me to hear about his feeding and truthfully I was thankful he stopped him.

"I'll see you later" is the last thing he says before continuing to walk.

More vampires start to come into sight, they all go quite only talking when Ivan addresses them.

We continued to walk for a few minutes until we turned a corner, I stood in front of the door and listened to the sounds of laughter that filled the air and I knew exactly who it was.

It immediately make me regret coming here, I quickly turn around but was blocked by Ivan's large frame. He looks down at me and smiles before knocking the door.

"Who is it?" The girly voice asked.

"It's Ivan" the manly one replied.

After a few seconds the door opened and there stood colt.

"Ivan, Rogue" he greeted

"Hi" I quickly respond

"Come in" he leaves the door open and returns to the other room.

I stay put not wanting to go in. Ivan let a huff before walking into the room, pushing me in during the process.

"Can you just do it" I say whilst trying to push past him.

"Don't be a bitch Rogue" he gives me one big nudge, almost taking me off my feet. I shot daggers towards him but he brushed them off. Ivan had made himself comfortable on a stool at the end of the marble table In the kitchen. Nicole was sat on the right and Colt was next to her.

I stood by the door way, butterflies were forming in my belly as I played with the tag on the gift bag. I looked back up at Ivan who was staring at me, I just wanted to get it over with, I don't cope well under pressure or confrontation so this experience was freaking me out.

"So what brings you here"Colt says, ending the silence

"Rogue wanted to drop in" Ivan says. I look at him with pleading eyes, his face softened in response. I chewed the inside of my cheek waiting for the next things to be said.

"You're not here to argue are you?" Colt adds. He was clearly joking but I took it to heart. My head dipped low out of embarrassment and discomfort.

"Colt" Ivan warned

I tightly closed my eyes and tried to calm myself. My hair has fallen over my face, hiding my shame.

Taking a deep breath I raised my head again and brushed my long locks out of my vision.

"Ummmm....no actually, Ivan had brought you-" I began to mumble

"Rogue" Ivan's stern voice has over powered my own. He raised his eyebrow at me like I was a child adding more discomfort.

"I got you something for Christmas" I begin again making sure to emphasise the I. Grabbing the gift from the bag I handed it to Colt.

He got up from his chair and pulled me into a hug. Ivan's eyes almost popped out of his head as he watched at the affection being shared between us.

Colt pulled back and Ivan wasted no time In making things clear.

"How about we don't do that again...ever" Colt nervously laughed before quickly sitting back down.

"Is it alright if I open it later" he asks

"Yeah that's fine"

A little bit of tension has disappeared along with some anxiety. Nicole looks hurt and upset which makes me feel bad.

"Does anyone want a drink?" Colt asks he gets up and walks towards the fridge.

"Water with ice for me and Rogue" Ivan replied

Nicole shifts in her seat and twiddled her thumbs. Colt puts two glasses on the table, Ivan takes one and signals me to come over.

I reluctantly walk over to him, he grabs my arm and pulls me between his legs, trapping me between his chest and the table. Even when he's sat down he's taller then me, I rest my bum on the small available bit of seat.

I bring the freezing cold beverage to my lips and take a sip. Ivan leans in closer and I already knew what he was going to say.

"Nicole looks a little hurt, just give it to her get it over with" he whispers into my ear.

"I know and I will" I reply

"Good girl" he kisses the side of my head, Earning a warm smile from me. She gets up from the chair and walks away.

"Nicole" I quickly call out. I loosen Ivan's grip and slide out from between his legs. Luckily she turns around.

I grab the present from the bag and hand it to her. Her face lights up and she takes the gift from my hand.

"It's only something small"

She opens it up and excitement grows. I had gotten her a bottle of her favourite perfume, she had told me it was super rare and it reminded her of home.

"Thank you so much Rogue" she looked a little lost, I could she was attempting to give me a hug.

I quickly wrapped my arms around her and she copied my actions. It lasted a little longer then a normal hug should, but it felt right plus I had missed her and I wanted to treasure the moment.

Eventually we pulled away, her smile was bright and so was mine.

"I have something for you is well, it's in my room ,do you want to come and get it?"shes asks, hope twinkled in her eyes as she waited for an answer.

"Yeah sure" I reply

She makes her way to her room and I follow. It wasn't as big as mine but it was decent, she went into her closet and pulled out a rectangular box.

Tearing the wrapping paper from the box and opening it there was a sleek black Michael Kors bag and matching wallet. It was so nice.

"Thank you Nicole, I love it"

Silence fell again but it wasn't as weird as last time.

"I'm sorry for everything Nicole, I've been unfair to you, I said some hurtful things is well. I don't want like the way things are going with us, we're both in the same situation and I think we need to be there for each other.I'm not saying we have to best friends but I would like to be civil" I confess. It felt so good to get it of my chest but now I had to wait and see what she had to say about it.

"I'm so sorry too Rogue, I got so caught up in myself that I pushed you aside, I should of been there for you when you found out about Ivan but I was too busy feeling sorry for myself. I want to get our friendship back, It gets a bit lonely being the only person down here and not being able to do anything. So I'm willing to try if you are" she replies. I sigh in relief and bring her in for another hug.

We sit down on her bed and talk about everything that has happened. Nicole had told me everything that has happened between her and Colt so it was only fair that i was truthful with her.

It turns out the Colt and Nicole were taking things slow like myself and Ivan, which was comforting to hear.

It had been about an two hours when we finished talking. We had arranged to meet up after Christmas along with Tasha and go out to do something.

We both returned to the kitchen where Ivan and Colt where sat talking about something.

"No bloody noses or bruises?" Colt joked

"No sir, we've sorted things out" I reply

Ivan had a satisfied look on his face as he looked at both of us. They had planned an evening out so they left with us. After thanking them both for there hospitality we bid our goodbyes and they left, Colt had grabbed Nicole and disappeared in vampire speed.

Walking out the door knowing we had sorted things out and made me feel happy. I just hoped we could sort it, having someone who knew my situation was something that I needed so I was going to push the past out of head and focus on the future.

We had started the walk back to Ivan's quarters, we hadn't made it made it very far, around the corner and down the hall to be exact when someone called out for Ivan.

"Mr Stone can I speak with you, there's been an incident involving one of our own" a voice from behind had asked.

Ivan looked at me, he was looking for a sign to say no. The sound of a door slamming had cause me to jump and Ivan instantly spoke.

"Not right now" he replies

"But-"

"No" he repeats more sternly.

"It's fine, just hurry back though" I reassure he looks at one more time before sighing.

"It's in the restricted area sir, I wouldn't bother you if I didn't think it was necessary" the vampire added.

"Somebody take her back to my room" Ivan instructed, I instantly panicked. I hadn't been here before and the vampires were dangerous as well as unfamiliar. The thought of being left with a stranger scared me.

"West, escort Rogue back to Mr Stones quarters" the vampire addressed another who was a lot scarier then the others.

He doesn't look very pleased when we walks over to us. He stares straight at me and i look away, his eyes slowly scan over my body, using my hands I cross them over my chest in attempt to cover the little bit of boob showing, after readjusting me glasses I take a small step back.

Ivan steps in front of me and West quickly backs up. He flicks his head to the side and the vampire disappears.

"Rogue I don't want you down there" he states

"Don't leave me with one of them" I whisper whilst looking down at my feet. My eyes meet with his, the fear was visible.

"Come on" he starts to walk and catches up with other vampire. I was behind them, they were speaking in hushed tones so I was unable to hear them, Ivan would occasionally look back to make sure i was alright.

Through a black door there was a flight of stairs at the end of the mansion. We climbed down the flight of stairs and through the last door, then we had came to a holt. We were standing in a average sized empty room.

Ivan turned towards me all jokes aside, his face was cold and serious.

"Don't move from this spot, there's a lot of dangerous things in this room, witches magic is everywhere. Don't leave here,not everyone knows who you are so they won't think before doing something. If anything happens you come straight in the room, alright" he adds

"Ok"

"I'm serious, don't move, I'll be out when I'm done"he hesitantly leaves, looking back at me one more time. I watch as he walks down the opposite hall and disappears around the corner.

I lean back on the wall and wait for him to return. I look around the room,taking in all my surroundings. My attention is drawn towards a glass window near the end of the hall, it was kind of dark the other side, but i swear I could see a figure standing behind it.

I push myself of the wall and move towards the glass. The closer I get the clearer it is. I was inches away from the glass, i could see the tall shadow as still as a statue.

Two bangs from the other side of the glass causes me to jump back. My heart was beating fast, my breathing was quicker and un-even.

Using my right hand I slowly bring it up towards the glass, I knock twice repeating the shadows actions. The being behind the door moves out of sight.

I take a step forward, cupping my hands around my eyes and pressing it against the glass. Something was shifting in the background, I blinked my eyes and there it was again. I jumped back hitting my head on the wall.

A thumping beat was attacking my brain leaving me dazed and in pain. I look back up to see I had hit my head on a black pad on the wall, the glass door began to move to the side, there was nothing but darkness.

I tried moving backwards but the pain in my head was to much. A large tattooed arm reached out from the darkness and wrapped around my leg, the being pulled me at lightening speed.

The glass door had shut quicker then it had opened. My instincts kicked in, I was about to scream but a large cold hand wrapped around my mouth.