Van Helsing (Cont.)

"It does seem so, doesn't it?" Lestat murmured, his tone soft and low. "Talking is something I... enjoy."

 

"But it makes you sad." Hannah noted.

Beatrice hugged Edward. "You know she'll thank you for this."

 

Michael noted how Beatrice's smile made her whole face light up. She's like Seline in that way.

 

Edward managed a smile, putting an arm around Beatrice. "I guess you're right," he muttered.

 

"No, I..." Lestat began. "It used to be worse, but now, I think sad can't even decribe it. I'll be happy when the word 'numb' applies."

 

"You really loved her." Hannah breathed. "Is that why you do what you do?"

"Oh," Beatrice detached herself from Edward. "Uh, sorry."

 

Young, innocent, and shy. Michael cracked a smile. "Thank you, Edward."

 

"I'm fine," Edward sighed, nodding slightly at Michael. "Really."

 

"You mean being... nice to people like you?" Lestat said softly, his fingers reaching back into her hair now. "Maybe. It's not like I expect redemption or anything like that."

 

Hannah's breath caught, her train of thought lost. "So you just do to do it."

"Do you want... to be alone for a while?" Beatrice asked carefully.

 

Michael nodded slightly. "There's only a few hours left of moonlight."

 

"It's up to you," Edward said to Beatrice. "I guess I should be by myself, to keep you safe. Thought I doubt, with Lestat's blood in you, I could do any unwanted harm."

 

Lestat laughed under his breath. "I do," he whispered.

 

Hannah's eyes closed, her cheeks lighting pink. "You really are amazing, Lestat." She murmured, the words slurring together.

Beatrice looked at Michael and then back at Edward. "We'll be back at the hotel then."

 

Michael waited for Edward's answer, not wanting to do anything that would upset him.

 

"I'll speak with her for you," Edward began toward Michael. "And then we'll see what will happen."

 

"I know," Lestat replied. "Actually, to tell you the truth, I at first had no idea how to help you survive this evening. But, it seems me being so 'amazing' as done a good enough job so far."

 

Michael nodded once. "That's fine with me."

 

"Mmhmm," Hannah agreed sleepily.

"Alright, this way." Beatrice headed off, glad that Michael followed without any other instruction.

 

"What is Van Helsing going to think now?" Edward muttered quietly to Beatrice.