What Hides Within (43 page)

But Victoria, we, the Nephilim, have so much to offer your world. Over the millennia, those of us who survived slowly regained our power. The Fallen One had use for us. He gave us a new purpose, and since then, we've shaped your world. Every day we survive, we grow stronger.

So you see, Victoria, I'm like you, an orphan and alone. My strength served your uncle well. It'll serve you well, too. Now that we have each other, I have a feeling things will only get better for the both of us.

"But how am I supposed to talk to you if I don't know what to call you? People will think I'm crazy if they think I'm talking to myself."

I'm your little secret now, Victoria. Others should not know of me. Most people are afraid of my kind. They would try to hurt me, kill me even. They wouldn't understand like you do. We have to keep each other safe.

"In private, then."

I see you share the same persistence your uncle had. Okay. How well do you know Greek mythology?

"Greek what? Is that like gyros? I like those, but I haven't eaten Greek food too much."

Never mind. How about you call me Arachnae? The name seems fitting, even beyond the obvious physical similarities we share.

"Ah . . . rack . . . knee. Got it. That's a nice name."

Thank you, Victoria. Your name is pretty, too.

Victoria sighed, which was the first sign of any authentic emotion she had shown for many weeks. She realized the direness of her present living conditions. She was thankful to finally have some support again. She was thankful for her new friend.

"We're out of Cocoa Puffs."

We'll get you some more. I promise. It's time to leave now, Victoria. Don't be scared. I'm here now, here to look after you. You're not alone anymore. You'll never be alone again.

"What about Daddy?"

Daddy needs his sleep. We need to go so that he can get some more sleep.

"Where will we go?"

Leave all of that to me. I have plans for you, Victoria. Great plans, you'll see! If you listen to me, do as I say, there's nothing we won't be able to see and do. We are going to be so happy together.

Victoria smiled her first heartfelt smile since her mother's death. She felt comfort, security, knowing someone was once again watching over her. She rose to her feet, content and complacent. Without a sound, a belonging or a care in the world, she walked out the door.