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There was a break between rehearsals and performance that Vlad contrived to get me alone. It was clear he had something on his mind.
“I don't think you realize how much Edward told you.”

He was right; I didn't.

“But he doesn't really know enough yet.”
“Why?” I asked suddenly.
“Because he hasn't learned.” Vlad retorted with utter simplicity.
“No- why did you kill him.”
“I didn't kill him.” He looked at me cooly, and raised his eyebrows. “Were you listening at all?”
“I was listening enough to know that if it hadn't worked, he would have been dead. “ I frowned, and leaned forward “And how is he not dead?”
“You're awfully picky about what you consider 'alive', aren't you? One might be inclined to be insulted, if one was in the mood.” He crossed his legs and put his hands folded on his knees. “I feel quite alive myself.”
I flushed, but didn't back down, looking at him calmly, and resolutely. He smiled at me, and stroked his beard for a moment before continuing.
“I care about Edward; he's become my dear friend and companion. And he cares for you deeply.”
Again I blushed, but kept my gaze steady.
“I want to know if you are going to betray him.”
Shocked, I drew back. “What?!”
“Are you suddenly going to scream to the world about vampires, and lead a search for our coffins, hounding him to death. He's young yet, killing him would be easy.” Now it was his turn to give me a long measuring look. Apparently, he saw an answer in my face.“Ah.”
“Even... even if I would... no one would believe me.”
“No?” He moved forward, pinning me back against the wall. I was struck by an uncomfortable feeling of deja-vu. Holding me in place, he touched the place that Edward had bit me the night before.“With that mark there; you could convince your circle , little mage.”
“They wouldn't believe me.” I repeated. The skin was tender, and the pressure of his fingers on it was... disturbing.
“Wouldn't they?”
“They hardly ever speak to me now; the reason I'm the best is that I'm the only one that had any damn talent in the first place.” I was surprised at my own heat. “They've all gotten sick of it. And of me.” I looked away from him, He chuckled and eased off so I wasn't trapped any longer. But as he did he slid his hand under my chin, and turned me back to face him.
“Edward still loves you.” He said. “And for his sake, I am fond of you as well.”
“That's not what I meant.” I snapped.
“I see.” He stood up, adjusting his gloves. “You know I'm quite glad; Alexander.”
“What?”
“I was worried But you aren't going to be a danger to us.” He turned to go, and paused, smiling over his shoulder. “Keep your promise though.”
“My what?”
I didn't even see him move, but I was pinned beneath him again. In the day, he wasn't as warm, I realized, though not as cold as Edward had been. He laid a kiss where my jaw met my neck, with dry lips.
“You remember.”
And he was gone.