1 Cecily's diary

STORIES OF VAMPIRES

Chapter 1 Cecily's diary England, 1820 This diary belongs to Cecily Brownswood Saturday I can hardly wait! Tonight is my very first ball. But last night, did I dream of waltzes, ballgowns and glittering chandeliers? Oh no. My dreams were far less pleasant...

I dreamed that my window was open and the wind was howling through. A low voice whispered, "Let me in, Cecily. Invite me in." I heard myself say, "Come in," and a dark shape flew in through the window, like a black sheet flapping in the wind.

A moment later, a tall man in a long black cloak was in my room. His hair was jet-black and his face was very white. He leaned forward, as though for a kiss. But I saw a glimpse of pointed teeth. They were about to sink into my neck...

As I awoke, my hand went to my neck. Of course, there was nothing there. But I've never had such a vivid dream. Saturday night My sisters, my parents and I crammed into the coach, headed for the ball. But I wasn't very cheerful, as my new bodice was laced up so tight that breathing was a challenge.

I wondered how on earth I was going to dance in my stiff dress, and if there'd be anyone worth dancing with. I doubted it; not in boring old Little Gidding.