Exton

I open my eyes slowly, the dim red light easing me awake without blinding me. The first thing I see is Max Scheck - Graf Orlock - looking down at me like an oversize rat, and I smile. Ah, Raina, love, you know me well…. The walls of the walk-in closet are painted a flat black that eats light like candy. My bedclothes are varied shades of black, gold and red, managing to look pricey without being expensive. I have the sudden urge to say "Welcome to my house. Enter freely and of your own will.", but I squelch it and get out of bed. Dressing doesn't take long…  not like I have to go with a tux and cape, or even a frock coat.

I snag a bottle of "sangria" from the fridge and knock back a third of it at a gulp. I always wake up hungry, and it won't do to eat the guests.... Raina is by the door in a midnight blue sundress, one of the few times I've actually seen her in a dress. I approve - so long as I get to take it off her later.

Gareth is in the kitchen with Ky, alternately making up hors d'eouvres and necking. I approve of that, too, especially the expanse of her legs revealed by the short skirt. Thank the gods Gareth didn't end up with a prude… I love Raina, but I'll always love looking at the ladies….