My Vampire Husband

Lately, I'd been freaking out about getting married. My grandfather left me an inheritance, but I could only get it if I married someone before I turned 26 and stayed married for at least a year. Luckily, my best friend Chris Loxley introduced me to a seriously handsome guy, at least that's what she said. "Trust me, gal. He's the hottest guy I've ever seen, aside from Brad Pitt! It's a shame he's so devoted to his tattoo shop instead of heading to Hollywood," Chris said, looking a bit sorry. When I got to the shop, I realized Chris had totally undersold him. This guy was stunning. Who ever heard of a tattoo artist this good-looking? He was casually dressed, with his shirt sleeves rolled up to his elbows, revealing chiseled arms. His face was like a sculpture, with deep, ocean-like eyes. Even through his clothes, I could tell he had a perfect build underneath. Chris, you’re a lifesaver! The tattoo shop had a TV playing the news. “Women going out alone should be extra cautious. There’s a serial killer targeting women in the area. The case is still under investigation.” Quite different, huh? Most places would be playing the latest TV dramas, but he’s got the news on. The man suddenly turned around, and his cold gaze sent a chill down my spine. “Hi, I’m here for the date. Our mutual friend Chris introduced me. I’m Leah. Are you Alec, the shop owner?” I asked. He gave me a brief glance, his blue eyes slightly intrigued, and said in a somewhat puzzled tone, “You came here for a date?” His casual glance instantly drew me in. This was a real-life heartthrob. Just then, something seemed to fall behind the counter. I looked over curiously, but he quickly blocked my view. Smiling, he said, “I have a cat. Just a little wild thing, nothing to see.” He exuded a strong, almost intimidating presence. The atmosphere was getting awkward. “Since I’m here, how about you give me a tattoo? I mean, if our date doesn’t work out, at least I get something tonight, right?” I don’t know what got into me, but I pulled my shirt up to my chest. Not satisfied with just that, I pulled it up further to expose my smooth back. I was all thinking about helping his business, but I didn’t realize how weird my behavior was. He raised an eyebrow, “Ms. Harris, you’ve got a great figure. Just my type. But there’s no need to rush.” My face turned as red as a cooked shrimp. This was killing me. Fortunately, he didn’t tease me any further and turned to get his tattoo equipment. For some reason, he seemed unfamiliar with the shop, taking a while to find a box of needles. He gave me an amused look, “What design do you want?” I looked at the designs on the wall. One of them was a vampire, extremely beautiful and captivating. “Maybe that one on the wall?” I said. He suddenly stepped closer, his breath hot against my ear. His warm breath scorched me. “Werewolf, skull, vampire—which one do you want?” he asked. Facing away from him, I looked at his reflection in the mirror. A red tear mole at the corner of his eye. That smile was utterly bewitching. That smile hit me right in the heart. Dazed, I chose the vampire design that had caught my eye, “The vampire.” I wasn’t used to being this close to him, so I shifted slightly, and his lips brushed my ear. I didn’t know if I was possessed or something, but I pointed to my shoulder blade, “Right here.” Looking at him, I thought even if I ended up getting stabbed to death today, it would be worth it. He walked up to me with that same amused look. With a sharp tug, he ripped my shirt, leaving me exposed. Ignoring my request, he started the tattoo on my chest. His unwavering gaze was serious, while I blushed furiously. I could feel the chill emanating from him, but his breath was scorching, “I think it looks better here.” You’re the expert, you decide. I felt dazed, but the position was making my mind race. We’d just started, and the lower the tattoo went, the more of my breasts he'd see. Wasn't it too much for our first meeting? Seeing how focused and professional he was, I felt ashamed of my dirty thoughts. Suddenly, he asked, “Why the vampire?”