The fog had lifted somewhat, but a fine mist still clung to the ground. Softly, she approached, only to discover Charles standing with his hands clasped behind his back, staring out into the gray haze.He jumped when she touched his shoulder. “Are you all right, Your Majesty?”“Elizabeth, you startled me. I was remembering my Restoration when I rode through the city and felt like I would like to rule forever. It’s an odd feeling to imagine I actually can exist forever.”“Sire, I told you I’d never make you a vampire.”“According to Buckingham, you’re not the only vampire in London.”“I beg of Your Majesty to reconsider.”Without answering her, he laughed. “I asked my Nelly if she wanted to live forever with me, and she said, “Of course, just make sure me mother and sister don’t live forever as well. I’d rather go to the devil than put up with them two throughout all eternity.”Elizabeth laughed and shook her head. “Nelly is an amazing woman.”One of the royal guards rushed out onto the terrace.
