`` i did n't think vampires existed '' bob replied . especially when the ancient commanding you is the vulture ruler herself . he had been slowly finishing off one bottle of gin and was ready to start another . i tried to focus on the pond , the trees , anything real and concrete to anchor the things swirling in my brain . `` look , you might as well come in . released her face with a whoosh of relief , wrapped her in his arms and dragged her against his body , rocking her back and forth . 