With the completion of Solcoin, Charles wasted no time setting up an LLC and trademarking his new product. As he waited for the legal processes to finalize, he returned to work, grateful for the week off he'd had while repairs were made to the gym. The morning mist clung to the air as he rode his Harley to the school, the engine's roar cutting through the stillness.
Pulling into the parking lot, Charles spotted a flash of red in the woods, his senses immediately sharpening. He scanned the area, noticing that the morning secretary was nowhere to be seen. Something was off. Closing his eyes, he focused on his heightened senses, trying to detect any unusual activity. That's when he heard it—an angry male voice, sharp and frustrated.
"Victoria, why did you stop me from eating our snack?"
There was a tremble in the female voice that responded, "James, every time you try, I feel like I'm going to die."
Charles' eyes snapped open, his mind racing. He knew he was dealing with vampires—dangerous ones at that. The names were familiar, and the situation was quickly escalating. He had to act, but first, he needed to assess the situation carefully, ensuring he wasn't walking into a trap.
With a quick listen, Charles confirmed that no humans were nearby. In an instant, he launched himself in the direction of the voices, moving so fast it was as if he'd teleported. As he arrived on the scene, he saw the secretary lying unconscious on the ground. His eyes tracked Victoria as she tensed, preparing to flee. But before she could, Charles was behind her, his grip like iron as he grabbed the back of her head and pinned her arms behind her back.
A deep, menacing growl rumbled from his throat as he demanded, "What are three vampires doing in this area?"
James' face twisted in terror, his eyes wide with fear. Unbeknownst to Charles, his own eyes were glowing with a violent red light, flickering like flames. The raw power emanating from him was palpable, and it made even the predatory vampires before him feel like prey.
"I'll give you all one chance," Charles growled, his voice low and dangerous. "Leave this state, or you will know what it is like to be hunted. Nod if you understand."
All three vampires nodded furiously, too terrified to do anything else. With a dismissive snarl, Charles threw Victoria away from him, sending her crashing into a tree. The three vampires didn't hesitate; they bolted from the scene, disappearing into the forest without a backward glance.
Charles stood there, his breath coming in controlled, even breaths as he watched them flee. The immediate threat was gone, but his mind was already turning to the implications of their presence in the area. Something bigger was at play, and he needed to be prepared.
Charles gently checked on the secretary, finding her to be unharmed—just unconscious with no visible injuries. Relieved, he picked her up and swiftly carried her back to the school, careful not to jostle her. As they arrived, she began to stir, blinking up at him in confusion.
"What happened, Mr. Newgate?" she asked, her voice groggy.
Charles looked down at her with a warm, reassuring smile. "I'm not too sure myself. I found you lying by the front door, passed out against it. Have you been sleeping well, Ms. Miller?"
Her cheeks quickly turned a deep shade of red as she realized how she was being carried and the genuine concern in Charles' voice. "I... I'm fine. I can walk on my own," she squeaked out, feeling a bit flustered.
Charles simply shrugged, gently setting her down on her feet. "Well, let me know if you feel dizzy. I have some water and fruit snacks in my office," he offered with a kind smile.
As they reached the front door, Charles opened it for her, gesturing with a small, playful bow. "After you, Ms. Miller," he said with a slight grin.
Ms. Miller, still blushing, nodded and walked inside, feeling a mix of embarrassment and gratitude for Charles' kindness. She glanced back at him with a small smile, appreciating his gentle demeanor.
As lunchtime approached, Charles decided it was time to visit Alice Cullen, knowing she would sense his approach. He made his way to the art room and knocked on the door, waiting for the teacher's acknowledgment.
"Come in," Mr. Stephens called from inside.
Charles opened the door slightly and leaned in, his voice polite and warm. "Sorry to interrupt, Mr. Stephens, but may I speak to Ms. Cullen for just a moment?" He gave a disarming smile as he asked.
Mr. Stephens, recognizing the nature of the request, nodded and glanced at Alice, who stood up and gracefully walked into the hallway to join Charles. As they walked a short distance down the hall, Charles turned to Alice and said, "I'd like to speak with your father tonight. Could you pass that along to him?"
Alice smiled brightly, her eyes twinkling. "Sure, no problem. How does 8 o'clock sound?"
"That sounds perfect. I'll be there. Enjoy the rest of your day, Ms. Cullen," Charles replied with a nod, returning her smile before heading back to his rounds.
The rest of the day was smooth and uneventful. As he patrolled the school, he occasionally caught a few students sneaking a smoke behind the building. He approached them with a friendly yet firm demeanor, giving them a light talking-to before sending them back to class. It was an easy day, and Charles found himself in good spirits as he prepared for his meeting with Carlisle Cullen later that evening.