“Yes?”
Henriette greeted the other woman with a smile. “Forgive me, Signora. I did not mean to disturb you. I believe I have lost my way again… It happens so often, you see, despite my having lived here many a year. It’s shameful! Truly! I fear I may never learn my way around.”

[[oh gosh yes. Though Lestat is a pretty sexual creature, he pretty much only uses it for blood unless he really cares about the person.]]
canisxwalenses, doctor12andmrclever, ithoughtidsurvive, thedarkdoctor, twelfthtimesthecharm, thatcleverdr, clara—theimpossiblegirl
Henriette peeked carefully over top the hedges that were concealing her location from her approaching children. Edmond and his sister Alma were both dressed in centuries old Royal Navy jackets many sizes too big for their tiny frames - a gift from their father during one of his rare visits. Though it was not unfitting of their regular attire, Henriette had thought it silly at first. After all, what could the children possibly do with such clothing other than to leave it on display? They surprised her by asking if the jackets could be worn for play clothing instead, and knowing their father would forgive them anything, of course she allowed it.
Now here they were, shoes and dress hems caked in damp earth from having chased each other through the wet gardens since breakfast. The children had elected for one of their themed versions of hide and seek; they were brave captains out to find scary sea monsters. Henriette tried not to laugh as they drew nearer to her hiding place, fully intent on getting the surprise on them by jumping out with her best roar. She started to lift her head again for another quick inspection, but quickly ducked back and turned around when she heard the padding of footsteps behind her. With a finger to her lips for them to be silent, she grabbed the stranger and pulled them down to join her in the game. “Sorry,” Henriette whispered, “The enemy is afoot!” She motioned her head towards the children on the other side of the hedges in search of them. “I miei figli.” She smiled warmly, laughing as quietly as she could. “I’m Henriette.”