I had to take a quick break before reading/reviewing this one because woah am I suddenly exhausted! But you're right - I was reading and writing at the same time and when I wrote that Cass had aborted, that was my initial assumption until it was clear she had miscarried because of her accident and I guess I just forgot to go back and change what I had written. Oh well. To all readers that stalk Roux Barcelone's reviews, let it be known! I made a mistake and am conscious of it and this is me rectifying it.

There. Moving on.

So we're to the last chapter then. You haven't updated this story since 2010? SHAME ON YOU! I'm serious, woman, the moment you hand in your thesis, I demand you take a 24 hour break so you can sleep and then I need you to start working on this story again - 1) because you owe it to your readers, AND to yourself; 2) everything needs to know what happens (and I'd like a refresher because it's been YEARS; 3) this story deserves to be told. And there are certain characters that just need to be developed more... and I need more Cass/Drac moments. And I'm sure the rest of your readers do as well.

Now then, let's actually read the chapter, shall we?

I love how Richard is JUST NOW REALIZING his number one customer has the hots for his eldest daughter. Umm, good sir, the vampire has been shamelessly flirting with your entire freaking household. It is time to open thine eyes and behold the glory of Dracula that is before you.

I love and appreciate Richard and Cordelia, but again, up to this point - they are terrible parents.

...

"You look beautiful Cassie. The Count won't be able to take his eyes off of you." - that's the point, Gracie. That's the whole point.

...

I love the Met. More so now that I've watched several performances live via broadcast. I'm totally serious when I say that visiting that place is officially on my bucket list. And I had forgotten what a prominent role it plays in your story. Makes it seem all the more special to me.

I think one of my favorite parts of this chapter are the subtleties - the light touches, the caress of breath on skin, the undertones and stolen looks during conversations.

But what kills me is Cassie's ignorance. She's not a child, and yet she insists on being oblivious the attentions of the men that surround her. I don't know if it's purposeful or what, but for heavens sake! I know Dracula's subtle, but he's not so subtle that his intentions can be overlooked. Everything he does is marked and with purpose. Then again, Cassie is so unassuming, I suppose it makes sense. But still...

I love the bit when he pulls her hand into his lap and starts stroking her arm. Again - subtle, but poignant.

Dinner was lovely as well, as was the glimpse into her past with her grandmother, the conversation on languages. And now... it is time.

Let's go check out the empty house, shall we :)

...

I always did like this scene where he gives her the figurine. But, naturally, it's the kiss that everyone remembers. I've always loved your description of this scene, the details, the words you chose. It's one of those instances when your perfectionism not only shines, but it also really pays off.

What always really impressed me, though, was how masterfully he backs out of the situation before it goes where all of our raging hormones want it to go. But it's also a very delicate way to stop, easing Cassie (and the rest of us devouring each word and description) into a calmer state of being, with the anticipation still brewing deep down.

Masterfully done, my friend.

...

Aaand of course all of that gets shot in the face when Nefer shows up with some guy and Cassie's all cross and vexed now. Hmpf. Well, it was lovely while it lasted.

Also, your teaser for chapter 12 is EVIL and I'm sensing a purposeful double entendre here. Shame on you :P

Well, I'm done reviewing. Now I get to finish up some work and then get started on your thesis - round 4! Heaven help us all.

But seriously, it was fun revisiting this. Hope it has given you the necessary inspiration/incentive to continue. I'll talk to you later! NOW FINISH THAT BLASTED THESIS! :)

Oooh! I'm almost done!

And I'm trying REALLY hard to pay attention to what I'm reading instead of skimming for the Signore's name. Wow, I'm having freaking deja vu right now.

Okay, let's focus.

Dracula is still taking his time with his seduction of Cassie. Good, good.

Cordelia arrives with a mystery guess... yes...

Nefer and Raphaela are chatting... blah blah blah

THERE IT IS!

"Ciao cara."

...

And now we get ice queen Cassandra. Ooh! I'm so excited! I don't remember any of this so it's all new for me!

She's so snappy and stressed and I'm finding it excessively entertaining! Poor Dracula. And poor Richard! Didn't even get a greeting. I feel bad, but at the same time I'm DYYYYYIIING of laughter over here.

Richard: "Baldone's here?"
Me: "F*CK YES HE'S HERE!"

...

I'm going to have a really hard time thoroughly reviewing this one because all I want to do is read... my apologies in advance!

...

I do love Baldone. For his familiarity with Cassie, how he teases her so openly (she needs it), and even for Dracula's interest in hearing more about our heroine. The man is vastly entertaining.

...

"Little shrew. I liked you better docile, cara."
"When have I ever been docile around you?"
"When you were sleeping!"

*is dying*
Oh I forgot about that one. So good!

I missed the banter, the history, the whole lot of it. I demand you finish this story, woman.

...

Ooh, I forgot about this bit - Cassie getting pregnant with Baldone's child, the abortion, the Signore's jealousy and possessiveness, how he constantly twists Cass' words instead of taking responsibility. I agree with the Count on this one - if the topic were something less serious, I'd be applauding him.

And I forgot that Cass can't have kids either... wow. SO MANY SECRETS I FORGOT!

I forgot how emotional and intense this part of the chapter was as well. I need to pause for a moment and applaud you. This interaction is extremely well-written. Especially when the Count finally makes himself known and intervenes, putting the Signore in his place before rescuing Cass.

The poort woman. I had forgotten.

I guess she isn't so controlled and perfect after all - although the way she was in the beginning did rub me wrong :P

But now the tension is gone as there's that sweet and tender moment of intimacy between the two. I forgot how much I loved this chapter - the comedy (seriously, you were so spot on in several instances), the drama, the intensity, the anger, the despair, the tenderness. I feel like I just rode a bloody roller coaster and now I'm a little worn out. But in a good way :)

Well, I have one more chapter to read/review! I'm glad this has been motivating for you to finish that section of your thesis. After I review the next chapter I'll start working on edits for you.

Glad you're enjoying all of these!

P.S. I fully and openly acknowledge that Baldone is a total ass in the latter portion of this chapter and if it were me, I wouldn't have put up with his crap either. But I am incapable of denying that the man has a wonderful appeal - even with his deplorable sense of arrogance and possessiveness. But if I recall correctly, he smooths out a bit later on. Still, total douche-move on his part, being so insensitive. *sigh* Oh well.

Before I start the review on this chapter, I had to start laughing because of your author's note. This is the chapter Baldone appears, isn't it? ISN'T IT?! SQUEEEEEE! YES! Fist pump in the air! SO READY FOR THIS! lol

And yes, as soon as I get back to writing EN again, you may have Jack. He's all yours :P

Now then - part 1 of a super LOOONG chapter. I like how you start out with Nefer's name and the meanings. You and your names, I swear. A part of me loves how you always read into peoples names and another part of me has to roll my eyes in amusement. :P But I think what I loved most about this spotlight on Nefer is we get to see that she's not some heartless and envious little sister - she adores Cassie (because, seriously, who doesn't?) but it's hard living in her very large shadow. Cassie's perfection affects everyone.

I do find it hilarious how Dracula is charming the pants off of everyone in the freaking house. I know that's a terrible analogy, but the way he shamelessly flirts with Cassie AND all of her younger sisters - it's hysterical and just so wrong at the same time. No wonder he had a harem at one point!

But the flirting between Nefer and Dracula had me laughing. Again, I don't know why I'm so damn giggly today, but I am and the whole "Like what you see Miss Amelia" / "Indeed I do" bit made me chortle back a laugh. WHY AM I READING THIS IN PUBLIC?! Oh the things I do for this friendship. ;)

The subtle intimacy of a fitting (for lack of a better term) is so perfect though.

Little girl. HAH! Little girl indeed.

...

"I have other things on my agenda today."
I'm not going to make the obvious joke. I'm not going to make the obvious joke.

...

AND SHE SAID HIS NAME! *dramatic gasp*

*insert fit of laughter here*

Oh heavens, what is wrong with me? Did someone poison my water? I swear... my apologies for being so hyper. I'm trying to tone it down, I swear I am.

*deep breath*

Okay... I am normal again... and the section is done which is probably for the best. Because Cassie saw it all. OH! SO EVIL!

...

And now we're back to the flirting and witty banter between Cass and Drac. I confess, as entertaining as this is to read, the first half of the chapter with Nefer and the sexual tension was my favorite.

...

No, I take that back. I forgot about the sexual tension between these two in this part of the chapter. I forgot about the "accidental" side-boob graze and the non-existent distance between them. Good lord.

"Is it only me or are you a bit unsteady on your feet today?"

Count, you seem to make her unsteady on her feet WHENEVER you're around. Don't insult us by pretending you're surprised by this. I'm on to you!

...

The opera.

The bleeding opera.

It's official.

You are SOOOOO not allowed to mock me for my love of cliches any more! Understood? ;) And I don't care if this is from like five years ago - every time you tease or mock me, I'm pointing at this story. :P

Personally, I don't mind the cliche - because I love the opera... and I love what comes with it (if memory serves).

...

Well, I didn't get any Baldone in this chapter, which made me excited over nothing, but he happens in the next one, right? I CAN'T REMEMBER! Curse my horrible memory!

One of my absolute favorite parts of this chapter is the quote from Catherine Deneuve. "... the experienced seducer dares to criticize." Oh, how perfect that.

So you were complaining that my reviews were getting shorter. Firstly - RUDE! ;) Secondly - if you hadn't gotten so demanding, I would have taken my time, but NOOOO! You're as impatient as the Count! ;) Lastly - girl! You know what happens when you tease me! *pointed look*

Now then, if you're done criticizing my reviews, I'll go back to reviewing! ;) :P Or I could always just stop and go back to editing "Ink on a Page."

Kidding... I've started this. It's time to finish.

The opening has some wonderful imagery. I've always envied your descriptions and right now is certainly one of those instances.

And now it comes - we're going to throw an adorable infant into Cassandra's lap so all can see how maternal and awesome she is :P And INSERT DRACULA and his witty commentary. Oh dear, that man. Cassandra? Have a baby? When would she even have the time?! I kid, of course, but seriously, that man! If you want babies out of her, good sir, you're going to need to kidnap her first.

You know who I miss right about now? Baldone. Signore Domencio Baldone. Merciful heavens, it's been an age. He's coming soon, isn't he? I guess I'll have to sit here and wait patiently for him to arrive.

Let's see, what are the Count and Cassie up to now?

Ah yes... babies. :P

And blushing. And flirting. So much shameless flirting.

And I do absolutely love the bit where Dracula starts swinging the pocket watch in front of Melanie's face.

"You look surprised Miss Graham. Is it so unusual that I might know how to appease a child? I do like children."

Yes, Count. We know. Mr. Father of the Year with your thousands of vampire babies. Although I'm thinking Melly is much cuter than a bunch of pigmy bats.

But OH THE FLIRTING!

And I love how EVERYONE is aware of his intentions (at least on the surface) but Cass is oblivious. Oh Cassandra... so clever and yet so blind. But that's usually how it goes, isn't it?

...

Sorry for getting so quiet suddenly. I was just reading over the bit with the press and Dracula calling Cassie out (or rather, giving her a push she sorely needed) and then the short bit between him and Jonathan - all of it was so very, VERY good. His nibs knows what he's doing, Mr. Woods! Women don't need to be coddled, they need someone who not only sees their potential, but someone who helps them obtain it.

And I loved the closing scene between Cass and Dracula - his honesty, Dracula kissing her hand, and Jonathan's jealousy. Loved it!

Reliving your dance... PAH-LEASE! Dracula, don't be so presumptuous! And stop trying to seduce all the women in the house - for heaven's sake! ;)

And I don't think her comment warrented the whole "someday you'll break your neck of you continue to speak to grown-up people like that." Geez, Count, showing your age, are we?

I do love how Tess is just SO eager to spill the beans about Cassie. Does everyone have match-making fever in this household? Hope it's not contagious!

...

I'm glad the wedding is over and I wasn't even invited!

.. .

And now we get some backstory... which is nice. But the advice near the end from Tess telling the Count that he can learn about Cass best by merely observing her - I really liked that.

It's a lovely reminder of the bond these sisters have and how wise Tess truly is.

And then there's Nefer flirting with the Count in an effort to get Cass off her back. Good lord, these women. The whole lot of them. :P

I forgot how independent and devious Nefer is, though. These girls need their freaking parents around! Cass can't be expected to care for the lot of them! That's not her job and it's not fair. Being the oldest, I know!

RICHARD AND CORDELIA, GET OFF YOUR FREAKING YACHT AND RAISE YOUR KIDS, DAMN IT!

...

And now I'm going to take a much needed break. Sorry, but I don't think you'll get all these reviews before you go to bed. I need some lunch and I need to do some work :P I'll come back to this later though. :)

"A woman like Cassandra could not be seduced in haste."

My good sir, ANY woman worth having cannot be seduced in haste. Period. The end.

But I do enjoy the letters in this chapter. the correspondence and the way you have this organized allows for a good deal of development between the two without us having to sit through dozens of chapters (not that I'd complain, but considering how far we still need to go, I appreciate this!)

...

His nightly entertainment.

Again, I don't know what's wrong with me today, but everything is making me laugh. Especially that "enough prelude, let's get to the main theme."

Once upon a time I found this kinky as hell, and though it still is, it made me chuckle. Oh Count... so impatient. That's what you are.

Ah, Bastide. Another character I totally forgot about.

But I do love how one second Bastide is all "Cassie's not a challenge enough" and then the next "is she bride material?" ... my good sir, stop trying to be Emma Woodhouse. I've already got that position covered, thank you very much, and YES - I think Cass and the Count are perfect for one another and she's certainly a challenge enough. The woman is pushing thirty and she's still living at home so she can run the place. Woman needs a flat of her own - or one of those little cottages on the property that provides some privacy at least.

Make it happen, sirs.

And then we have the gift.

Dangerous Liasons.

Ah, how I love it. So classy and so brazen at the same time. And the flower language at the end is PERFECT. Perfect, perfect, perfect...

Okay, so Cassie's sisters are better at helping Cassie than freaking Cordelia is. GIRL... this needs to be fixed ASAP! :P Although I'm so glad they did that for her. Poor woman needs a break!

Dracula! Get your ass over here and if you would be so kind, please sweep Cassandra Graham off her feet, whisk her away to a remote location, and make SURE you exhaust her enough so she will sleep like the dead. Please and thank you. ;)

...

LOL! I totally forgot about Steph reading Cassie's romance novels :P Oh I am dying... *wipes away tears* I can just see his face. The single arched brow. *dying*

Also, the fact that Dracula reads and can RECOMMEND romance novels makes me laugh. This needs to be a one-shot. Dracula perusing the romance section of a library or bookstore and as he flips through some of the pages he says things like, "seen it," "done it," "not physically possible," "oooh, that's new"... *is crying*

Oh my god, that would be beautiful.

...

And you were giving *ME* grief for a ball? ;) We meet again, kettle. :P

And oh Dracula. He's going to just charm the pants off of everyone, isn't he?

Wait, I DIDN'T MEAN IT LIKE THAT! Stop laughing at me.

...

"Are you flirting with me Miss Tess?"
Me: Dude, don't act all innocent. You totally started it.

...

You know, I was going to make a joke about Mr. Wood having a soft spot for Cassie, but it was too easy and wildly inappropriate, so I will refrain.

But seriously...

...

Last waltz for the evening... and what a waltz it was! And UGH! The shameless flirting! I LOVE IT! *contented sigh* Ahh... balls and masquerades and the like always make me so happy. I don't care if they're considered cliched at this point. I love them and I'm totally not going to apologize for that.

I have always loved this chapter - even if it's super long and SOOO much happens in it. But I love it. I truly do.

It's official. Someone needs to buy Cassandra Graham a freaking blue-tooth device so she doesn't' have to keep holding onto phones. It's bad for her neck!

And I know we just talked about this, but not only is she running the house, she's doing the bills too? GEEZ man! Richard and Cordelia need to stop being so selfish and freaking step-up their parenting game! This is not okay! Kids should not be running their parent's home!

See? You REALLY need to finish this story, my friend, because (as you mentioned) a lot of my issues get resolved later or are at least addressed, but right now in the moment, with most of this being so fresh for me because it's been AGES since I read it... it's like starting anew.

And now I finally get Cordelia acknowledging that she's a terrible mother. I sympathize with her, but my god. WOMAN, THIS IS TOTALLY YOUR OWN DAMN FAULT! *huff* I swear, people who have kids and then don't even bother to raise them shouldn't have kids at all. (I'm amazed at how angry this is making me... my apologies). But SERIOUSLY. And you're right DELI. Cassie SHOULD NOT have this put on her. It's absurd and ridiculous and it's making me so angry, I can't stand it.

"So again, no rest for her?" SERIOUSLY PEOPLE! Stop being so damn absurd and HELP THE POOR WOMAN OUT, if you care so much about her! UGGGHHHHH!

Although I did thoroughly enjoy the back-and-forth between the sisters about their Grandmother. Was in stitches.

...

Richard Graham, *I* would have your head if you left Cassie to entertain YOUR guests. *starts mumbling swears and curses under her breath* I swear to God.

...

Of course Cassie plays, your majesty. She's freaking Cassandra Graham. The name is synonymous with "perfection". ;) But seriously, if she didn't have a wealth of hidden talents, we wouldn't love her like we do. :)

Oooh... I forgot about Cassie's secret past and that thing with her hand! GAH! I NEED MORE OF THIS STORY NOW!

...

I don't know why, but the scene where the girls are arguing about walking down the stairs with a book on their heads and how none of them can do it anymore and the Cass waltzes in and shows them all up.

I laughed.

I could just see their faces and I'm still laughing.

...

I forgot how freaking EXHAUSTING (but fabulous) Adelaide Graham is.

AND CLAUDE! OH Claude I missed your face! And yes, Cass and Dracula would go well together... though we have to wait freaking FOREVER for that to happen. *sends the authoress a pointed look*

Although I do love how everything calls Adelaide the old hag. Do you have any idea how hard it is to laugh quietly in an office? Very hard, let me tell you. My poor stomach.

...

I love these moments when we get to hang out with just the Count and his thoughts. His nibs amuses me greatly. But when he sees Cass's hair down for the first time... I forgot how much I loved that scene. Again, though, not a fan of how it takes FOREVER for the two of them to get together. Just... UGGHHHHH! AGITATION!

And at last we have the grand introductions made. Although I vaguely recall Cassie's upbringing and why she is the way she is, it still rubs me a bit wrong that she comes across as above or even superior to her parents - at least where the running of the estate is concerned. Granted, I understand why she is that way, but still. It just... I need to think more on how to explain it.

The only thing I can think of is that she's perfect - despite her physical imperfections you've pointed out, she's still totally perfect. And not in a way I can easily forgive or overlook. I understand that some of this is a facade, but you're right (in reference to a conversation we had a little while ago). We need a more human Cassandra. She doesn't feel human. She feels... unreal.

Still love her, but you're right. We need to humanize our heroine. Her super-controlled personality is off-putting. Although her words are heartfelt, I feel a little cold after reading them. Maybe I'm reading too much into it. We are, after all, only in the third chapter. Just something to think about.

Also not a huge fan of how Cordelia and Richard just lets her do all of this to herself. Moderation, my dear Cassandra! Although it is one of her talents, considering who she was technically raised by. But still... I need more human Cassie in my life! I think that's why some of my favorite moments are when she's with her sisters. Although - again - she's more of a mother to them than Cordelia is at times and that kind of kills me too. I can't remember if you did this or planned to do it, but I think some delving into Cassie and Cordelia's relationship would be beneficial - especially if we got a more maternal Cordelia in regards to her interactions with Cassie. Cassie is so strong and grown-up and independent and - consequently - so in control 99% of the time. I long for us to be reminded that she's only 26 years old and she is still her parent's CHILD.

And again, Cordelia is overshadowed by her eldest daughter when it comes to the maternal side of things. I'm starting to feel sorry for her.

Although, I will say, my absolute FAVORITE part of the entire freaking chapter was when Cassie starts singing and Dracula's eyes fly open. Get's me every time!

And the flower language. I forgot how prevalent that was.

AH! *THERE'S* the parental concern I wanted to see! At least a smidge of it.

And then we're back to Cassie being the parent. Honestly, dear... I love Cassandra and I love her siblings and her parents, but by God Richard and Cordelia are slacking big time in the parental department. I mean, I can understand being busy and I know there are plenty of families out there that are complex and an older sibling or grandparent or nanny is more of a parent than the actual parents... but it's making me rather sad :( IT'S ONLY CHAPTER 3 AND I'M ALREADY TOO EMOTIONALLY INVOLVED! :( *cries*

But then we get Cassie's revenge. See, THAT's the Cassie I want! The one that trips her brother into a pond :P

Sheesh, it really has been a long time since I read this because I totally forgot who Damien Graham was. I so fail as a friend. You always remember so many things from my stories but I can't seem to remember most of anything :(

I also forgot how many Graham's there actually are! I remembered Nefer and Stephanie (although totally forgot Nefer's name was actually Amelia), but I forgot about Raphaela! HOW COULD I FORGET?! :( And then there's Grace, and then Tess. Did I miss anyone? Sheesh, I hope not.

Rereading this is making me feel like such a terrible friend. You know what you need? A freaking flow-chart (complete with pictures) of all your characters, so I can keep better track of them. As soon as you're finished with your thesis, I demand you cast your characters ;)

I'm totally sympathizing with the Count right about now, though - *all* the girls. Yes, Dracula. That's right. You've just entered the estrogen ocean. I hope you brought your swimming trunks.

I do love the entrance/introduction of Cassie, though. I keep imagining a dramatic turn of golden hair and the sun shining in through a window behind her - maybe with some angelic choir in the background. I kid... but seriously, it's so nice to reread this.

OOOH! I need to go find the Carmen Monarcha version of this song because I remember that's the one you sent me after you posted this chapter. SQUEE! MEMORIES! ALL ALONE IN THE MOONLIGHT!

Wow, I'm suddenly so hyper. I think somebody dusted my white-chocolate peppermint popcorn with crack or something.

OH WELL!

Also, speaking of that Carmen Monarcha/Andre Rieu video - omg, that man is such a nerd.

FOCUS, Teela, focus... okay.

I forgot how much I love Richard Graham. The brief description of how he and Cordelia met and fell in love makes me all swoony. Especially the "Now, thirty years later he still couldn't take his eyes off her." That's what every woman wants. Ugh... love it.

And then we get to our favorite vampire. Oh his nibs... how we all love him. And the man is forever the charmer - oozing with compliments and allure.

And so we begin. The Count has been invited to the states and Cordelia is channeling her inner Emma Woodhouse. I'd say "poor Cassie" but... seriously? No poor Cassie. Freaking Cassie is freaking perfect. NO PITY FOR HER! ;)

So remember that one time when I said I was going to go back and reread this story? Well, it's a Friday, my last call of the day finished early, and I don't want to work anymore so... REVIEWS FOR YOU, CHIKA! ;) Think of it as an early "Congrats on Finishing Your MA" present... or something.

But who am I kidding? I just want to take a trip down memory lane. And I want to be of some use to you when you finally come to me to bounce ideas off of me because you are so finishing this story! I demand it!

Ok... so I'm all gushy and blushy over here with your "Great many thanks to Remember" bit. AWWWW! *HUGS* I'm so glad we're friends! :) And I can't wait for "Ink on a Page" to go live again so this author's note will be valid once more. And hopefully it'll be better than it was before. Personally, *I* think it's better, but there could be persons that disagree. Time will tell.

Well, I'm ready to do this! Let's drown in some feels, shall we?

Also, remembering (vaguely anyway) where this story is headed... I'm already feeling them feels! :( UGH!

Cassie, we will never forget you, indeed.

P.S. the freaking site won't let me review more than once when logged in! Damn them! Time to go all "anonymous"... lol UGH! This is going to be so fun!

And so goes the 'Vampire of the Opera'! XD

I really liked this, a pity you did not finish it.