"That is what I'd like to be," Angelique agreed, a small but genuine smile curving up the corners of her lips. "I confess, I was a fan at first. A bit star-struck. But he was very kind, very normal, and we get on very well."

She paused a moment, considering, then went on, "And you haven't shocked me at all today, Pippa, so don't worry. I have a... a very good friend who is a vampire. It's not a world I know much about, but I trust my friend."