SIX MONTHS EARLIER
The doorbell rang through the quiet manor and Nicolae looked up from the paperwork strewn over his desk. Drogo was out for the evening and Peter rarely came down, so it was he who had the task to answer the door. He stood and straightened his shirt and vest, running an hand through his long, dark hair as he strode confidently to welcome the visitor. As he opened the door, a woman fell into his arms.
"I...I'm so sorry! I was just going to knock on the door, but you opened it... well, obviously you know that. I was just going to knock." Melissa Dorman stopped rambling and looked at the young man still holding her in his arms. She cleared her throat and looked into his eyes with as much confidence as she could muster. She straightened herself and tried to look professional as her cheeks turned bright red. "Um... I'm here to see Mr. Bartholy. I'm the new nanny hired to take care of Lorie."
Nicolae silently studied her, noting her embarrassment and nervousness. He doubted she would be able to face his little sister for more than a week, but he was going to give her a chance, nonetheless. He had no choice with school starting on Monday. He stifled the sigh of disappointment that was on his lips. He bowed as he stepped aside to let her in.
"I am Nicolae Bartholy, the eldest son of the Bartholy family. We have been expecting you, Miss Dorman. Please come inside."
Melissa stepped into the foyer of the massive manor. The absolute majesty of it blew her away. The grand staircase was solid oak and gilded. There were several paintings and priceless decorative pieces that were tastefully placed throughout the large room. She noted the chill in the air and was surprised that the manor wasn't warmer. She absentmindedly rolled her suitcase behind her as she studied the room, letting her gaze linger on the paintings surrounding her.
As she took in the surroundings, Nicolae studied the young lady and lightly probed her mind. She didn't seem to notice his actions, so he took advantage to openly watch her. She was pretty, well dressed for the occasion, and had a unique barrette in her hair that he found somewhat interesting. From her interest in the paintings and leftover paint stains on her fingers, he assumed she enjoyed art and had a keen eye. He would have to keep that in mind as the family of vampires needed to put on an air of human qualities. She continued to look around and he probed her mind more deeply. A kind, cheerful aura surrounded her and he was surprised by her openness. She was somewhat different to him compared to the other women who had been previously employed as Lorie's au pair, but he would find out her secrets soon enough. He always did.
Melissa felt Nicolae's gaze on her, but chose to ignore it. After all, she was as new to him as he was to her. He had every right to be curious. Slowly, she took off her coat and looked back at the young man who had invited her inside.
"Will Mr. Bartholy be joining us soon?", she asked as she noted his complete silence since she had been greeted.
"No, my father is currently away on business. He sends his regrets. I am the head of the household during his absence. Shall I show you to your room?" Nicolae spread his arm gracefully toward the staircase.
