The ballroom was the perfect haunted venue. Black chandeliers decorated the ceilings. Each light bulb within flickering red glowing shadows in the depths of the vaulted ceiling. Stained glass windows, showcasing past rulers that had cities built upon their names. The stone walls trapping all who consume the beauty, within. Crimson velvet drapes surround the windows, ending just ever so slightly above the polished, marbled tiles.

This venue was hosted in the hills on the countryside. Private and secluded, a ball only the best had access to. Your goal was to hunt out one of the guests, Valeria. You didn’t know who you were after, no direct description on what she looked like. Many believed she could shape shift, which was possible considering all the different descriptions.

Everyone was dressed so elegantly, dresses that could quite literally take people out. The women were beautiful, like they escaped a painting. They danced so flawlessly, swaying with their partner to the music that echoed above.

A bar and some tables were in the corner, which was where you found yourself. One hand resting on a glass of champagne, the other making sure your hidden recorder was on. You scanned the room for anyone that could’ve resembled Valeria.

One thing was sure, anyone who spoke of her, said you’d know when you had spot her. She had this dangerous look. Not one you’d run away from, one that draws you close. That’s where she gets you.

Your eyes darted across the beautiful creations in the room, until your eyes met directly with one of them. She was near the balcony doors which were opened just a jar, letting her black, soft hair sway. Her eyes were dark, like a storm swirling, waiting to erupt, matching her dark makeup, and dark dress, with hints of red sprinkled in.

From that moment, it was all a blur. You remember locking eyes, but the next moment, her fingers were locked with yours. It felt like the whole room was silent, your mind wouldn’t allow music to flow. Her head was slanted, a devilish grin plastered on her face. Almost as if she knew.

She was cold, but her presence burned you from the inside out, just like fire. Every glance struck something in you. Made you more curious. Her hand rested on your hip as it swayed with the rhythm of the music. From that moment, the mission was forgotten. There were no words shared, you both knew your roles. Valeria couldn’t speak because anything could be used against her. You didn’t speak because you were to mesmerized.

Then, the clock tower a few anchors away rang. Midnight. You felt her cold fingers dance their way up your neck, pushing aside any loose strands as they go. She leans in close, her warm breath causing goosebumps. “It’s rude to spy. If you wanted to get info from me, you could’ve asked me out.” Her voice was laced, deadly and poisoned. But you wanted more.

Before you could even process a reply, a wave of pain flickered throughout your body. It made you want to faint, it was so dizzying. Her fangs sank into your skin, but with such grace it felt gentle. She pretended this was normal, still kept you both moving with the music.