Tribute for the Count

Stopping beside an exquisite black ebony cane, I raised my eyes and saw a man. He was looking straight at me without blinking, and his dark eyes seemed to hypnotize me. Tall, strongly built, with a proud bearing. He drew the eyes of everyone around him like a magnet, though not by his wealth, but by an aura of authority.

Shuddering and looking away, I hurried off from the shop where he had been making purchases. When I saw Delia waiting for me, I felt incredible relief.

- Where are you running as if the devil himself were chasing you? the girl asked in surprise when I flew up to her.

- Let’s go somewhere away from here, I feel uneasy.

My heart was pounding fast, very fast, in my chest. Where had this agitation come from?

- Of course, just let’s stop for gloves...

Suddenly Delia fell silent and turned pale.

- Good afternoon, Miss Flamigan. What an unexpected pleasure to meet you here, came a quiet velvety voice from behind me, sending shivers through my body.