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00:00On my birthday I showed up right on time at the upscale blood banquet lounge Daniel Cook had reserved.
00:05Genuinely excited for the night ahead.
00:08By the seventh time a blood servant waiter came over with a polite smile to ask if I was ready
00:14to order.
00:14My phone finally lit up with an iMessage from Daniel.
00:18Something urgent came up with the elders council.
00:21Go ahead and order yourself a glass of blood plasma, Don.
00:25Don wait for me.
00:27A second later, I scrolled straight into a new Instagram post from his first love, Camila Bennett, a pureblood elite.
00:35In the photo Daniel was seated at a table, casually flipping through the menu.
00:40He was even handing a fine silk blood napkin to someone just outside the frame.
00:46His attention clearly elsewhere.
00:48Been asleep in the old world for so long.
00:50Someone was worried I'd come back to New York and starve because I could read the menu.
00:54So he's treating me to a proper feast.
00:57Anything for you?
00:58Just like that, the entire evening lost its flavor.
01:01I handed the menu written entirely in archaic Latin I couldn't even begin to decipher.
01:06Back to the blood servant waiter.
01:08I'll have one a very soon from your signature blood reserve selection.
01:11By the time I finished feeding and had the rest packed up to take back to my underground manor in
01:16Manhattan,
01:17my phone was flooded with missed calls, dozens of them, all from Daniel.
01:24I didn't respond, a relationship that keeps surviving on promises of next time.
01:28Was that really something worth waiting for?
01:31Especially for someone like me?
01:33A member of the vampire kind with time stretching endlessly ahead?
01:39A few days later, I went out for the night with a friend and ended up running into Daniel at
01:44a night lounge.
01:45We had barely been seated when a pair of icy hands suddenly grabbed my arm.
01:49Lydia, you ignore my texts and then show up here in the middle of the night to drink?
01:53Before I could respond, my friend shook his hand off and shot a cold look at the woman behind him.
01:58Ah, so you can hang out alone with another female vampire, but we can't come out and relax.
02:04Daniel pinched the bridge of his pale nose.
02:06Don't start.
02:07Camilla brought her entourage out for drinks.
02:09I was worried they'd end up drinking low quality blood and getting into trouble,
02:13so I came along to keep an eye on things, and I did text you.
02:16You're the one who never replied.
02:18There was a trace of frustration in his voice.
02:21Only then did I notice the messages he had sent after that.
02:24A mix of updates and attempts to smooth things over.
02:27I was genuinely surprised.
02:29Daniel had never been the type to keep me informed.
02:31Back when I once asked how many nights he'd be away on a trip to the Elder's Council in Washington,
02:36D.C.,
02:36he had shut me down immediately.
02:38Lydia Ross, every vampire needs their own space.
02:40Do you have to track me like a radar?
02:42It had taken repeated apologies before he let it go,
02:45warning me not to interfere with his schedule again.
02:47Locked my screen and answered casually.
02:50Sorry, didn't check my phone.
02:52Daniel looked caught off guard.
02:53Right then, Camilla stepped forward.
02:55Daniel, if Lydia's uncomfortable, you should go back with her.
02:58I'll be fine getting back on my own.
03:00I clinked my glass of blood wine with my friends without even looking up.
03:04I'm not.
03:05Do whatever you want.
03:06Daniel frowned, scanning me from head to toe.
03:09Lydia, be reasonable.
03:11Go home first.
03:12If you want to unwind, I'll pick up your favorite blood pudding.
03:15After I take Camilla back to her resting place at the hotel, we can eat together all you want.
03:19Daniel had a serious aversion to anything unclean.
03:23He never allowed strongly scented, half-blood food inside his barrier.
03:27After moving in with him, I had given up both blood pudding and woof spain mix.
03:32Assuming he was just in a hurry to get Camilla settled, I nodded dismissively.
03:36Got it.
03:37You should go.
03:38He seemed surprised at how easily I agreed.
03:41Good.
03:41Wait for me at the castle hotel.
03:43Like a reward, he reached out and ruffled my hair.
03:46He left in such a rush that he didn't even notice me subtly pulling away.
03:50By the time I got back, dawn was approaching.
03:52The moment I pushed the door open, I ran straight into Daniel,
03:56who looked like he had been about to go out and look for me.
03:59The instant he saw me, his expression turned cold.
04:02Lydia, do you even know what time it is?
04:04The sun's about to come up.
04:05You've lived this long, and you're still acting like one of those newly turned,
04:09storming out and staying away all night.
04:11I was so exhausted, I could fall straight into torpor the second I closed my eyes.
04:16I didn't have the energy to deal with him.
04:18I tried to walk past him toward the coffin in the bedroom.
04:21He stepped in front of me, blocking my way.
04:24Stop getting jealous over nothing.
04:25If there were really something between me and Camilla, do you think it would be your place?
04:29Then he pulled out a small blue box from the pocket of his tailored coat.
04:34A Tiffany box.
04:35Here, your birthday gift, and don't act this childish again.
04:39I was too tired to argue.
04:41Without even looking, I took the box and headed for the bedroom.
04:44Fun!
04:45Thanks!
04:46I tossed the little blue box, still holding a magical charm inside, onto the vanity without
04:52a second thought.
04:53Whatever, I slipped into the coffin, and shut my eyes.
04:56Before I could even process who had slammed the front door so hard, the sound echoing through
05:01the manor, I had already fallen completely into sleep.
05:04The next night, as I sat scrolling through Instagram, with a cup of pure blood brew in
05:08hand, I finally realized what had happened.
05:11Daniel had slammed the door, and left, the night before.
05:15Camilla had already posted again, wish this moment could last forever.
05:18The photo showed her and Daniel, standing side by side atop a castle in upstate New York,
05:24their backs to the camera as they looked up at a blood moon.
05:26I tapped like out of habit, then let out a quiet sigh, thought good for them, I guess.
05:32Romantic for the two of them, my door was the one that suffered for it.
05:36After a few quick sips of a custom blood plasma mix, I headed to the vampire consorta team
05:41offices.
05:42When the executive council manager heard I was finally willing to accept a transfer, she
05:46looked both surprised and relieved.
05:49The last time I had turned down a position in the Seattle Territory branch, because I did
05:53not want a long-distance relationship with Daniel, she had genuinely felt it was a waste.
05:59Glad you finally came around, with teleportation gates this advanced, visiting each other is
06:04just a few hours through a night transit array.
06:06You know what they say, distance makes the heart grow fonder.
06:10I smiled politely at her teasing, before adding, calm and matter of fact, I am planning to dissolve
06:16our blood bond.
06:17By the time I finished the paperwork, it was midnight, our usual break.
06:21A few co-workers I was close with, immediately insisted, on taking me out, for a farewell
06:27blood feast.
06:28Laughing, I followed them into the elevator, but the moment we stepped out of the revolving
06:32doors, Daniel appeared out of nowhere and pressed a bouquet of black roses, still damp
06:37with night dew, into my hands.
06:39Peace offering.
06:40My co-workers instantly erupted.
06:42Wow, what did you do to make Lydia mad?
06:45You are down here waiting with flowers.
06:47Too late, Daniel.
06:48Daniel, Lydia's midnight slot is booked.
06:50She is ours tonight.
06:52Sorry everyone.
06:53Lydia and I need to take care of something.
06:55I will make it up to you next week.
06:57Daniel laughed, as he pulled me gently toward his UV-protected SUV.
07:02Thinking something urgent had happened back at the Underground Manor, I said goodbye to my
07:07co-workers, and slayed into the passenger seat, as he opened the door for me.
07:11The first thing I did was toss the bouquet of black roses into the back seat, before fastening
07:16my seatbelt.
07:17Daniel saw it the moment he got in, his pale lips pressed into a thin line dot at a red
07:22light.
07:23He finally asked, unable to hold it in.
07:25You do not like them?
07:26I was still replying to work hand-over emails on the dark web.
07:30It took me a moment to even look up.
07:32What?
07:33Then it clicked.
07:34Oh, the flowers.
07:35You forgot I am allergic to black rose pollen.
07:38Daniel froze, then winced.
07:40God, I am sorry.
07:41I will remember next time.
07:43My eyes had already dropped back to my phone.
07:46It is fine.
07:47It was not the first time.
07:48A high-ranking vampire envoy, who could fluently recite obscure ancient languages,
07:53did not forget something like that by accident.
07:55He just did not care.
07:57At least now, I did not need him to.
07:59We are here.
08:00By the time Daniel told me to get out, I had just confirmed my start date with the Seattle
08:05Territory Supervisor.
08:06I glanced out the window and frowned, thought this was not our neighborhood.
08:10It was the parking lot of an international teleportation gate terminal.
08:15Before I could ask anything, Daniel had already opened my door and grabbed my hand.
08:20Pulling me into a run through the lobby, I blinked in surprise.
08:23In my memory, Daniel had always been composed, refined, every bit the pure-blood elite.
08:28This kind of impulsive, almost boyish energy was something I had only ever seen in Camilla's
08:34Instagram posts.
08:35Lydia, hurry, our knight Transalito R.A. is about to depart.
08:40By the time we dropped into our first-class seat, both of us slightly out of breath, I
08:44finally managed to ask, what is going on?
08:47Did something happen to your family, the prince in your house?
08:50Daniel's family had lived in European castles for generations, so I had assumed something
08:54serious had come up.
08:56He was still catching his breath as he tucked away our knight passes and vampire passports.
09:00I know you have not used your sabbatical year yet.
09:03You have always wanted to see the Eiffel Tower at night in Paris, right?
09:07I finally have time off, so I am taking you on a proper trip.
09:11Just do not be mad at me anymore, okay?
09:13That was when it hit me, dot in three years together.
09:16This was the first time Daniel had ever taken me on a trip.
09:19Every single one of his previous vacations had been spent with Camilla, or more accurately,
09:24his vacations existed for her.
09:26He would take her to the African savannah to drink lion blood, to Iceland to watch the
09:31northern lights, to Australia to see kangaroos, but when all I wanted was for him to check
09:35out a new blood bar with me in Brooklyn, he would brush me off, saying the elders' council
09:40kept him too busy.
09:41I let it go.
09:42I would treat this as our last trip before ending the blood bond, a clean break.
09:47For now, I swallowed the urge to bring it up.
09:49Wait, if we are teleporting directly, what about our luggage?
09:52The soil, our clothes, Daniel reached over and patted my head, indulgent.
09:57Relax, I figure traffic in New York might slow us down and make us miss the flight.
10:02So I asked a friend, who is also heading to Paris, to take our luggage ahead, to the
10:06castle hotel.
10:07I nodded, dot, at least I happen to be between rolls right now.
10:11Otherwise, disappearing from work like this would have been hard to explain to the executive
10:15council.
10:15By the time we arrived at the French teleportation gate, it was already deep into the night.
10:20We had barely stepped into the lobby of the castle hotel, when Daniel's phone rang, sharp
10:25and sudden.
10:25He picked up immediately.
10:27Hey, don't cry, stay where you are, avoid the moonlight, if you can, I'll be there right
10:32away.
10:33Lydia, Camilla followed us to Paris.
10:35Vampire hunters are pretty active in this district, so it's not safe.
10:38I'm worried something might happen to her.
10:40Go up to the room and get some rest.
10:42I'll be back as soon as I find her.
10:43His expression tightened with urgency.
10:45He rushed over to the valet, and practically snatched the keys to our rental car.
10:49Before I could say a word, he was already gone, speeding off into the night.
10:54He had completely forgotten that I did not speak a word of French.
10:58Worth, my vampire passport, and all my identification, were still in his briefcase.
11:03The trip had been so sudden, I had not even set up international roaming.
11:07Unable to reach him, I tried using a translation app to communicate with the ghoul at the front
11:11desk.
11:12Without a passport, they could not check me in.
11:14So I ended up sitting on a couch in the lobby, waiting.
11:18The long transatlantic journey, combined with the time difference, had left me drained.
11:23I needed blood.
11:24I needed torpor.
11:25Curled into the soft couch, I felt sleep pulling at me.
11:28The drive from the teleportation gate to the hotel should have taken 30 minutes.
11:34Two full rotations of the clock hence later, Daniel was still nowhere to be seen.
11:39I stopped wondering what he and Camila were doing.
11:41Just as I closed my eyes again, ready to drift off, a low, smooth voice spoke right beside
11:47me.
11:47Lydia.
11:48I jolted upright, instantly awake.
11:50Alexander?
11:51What are you doing here?
11:52I nearly jumped to my feet.
11:54A rush of excitement cutting through my exhaustion.
11:57Running into someone you knew in a foreign country was one thing.
12:01Running into someone who used to sit next to you, at the turning academy, was something
12:05else entirely.
12:06Alexander Carter walked over with an easy smile.
12:09Business trip closed the territory deal earlier than expected.
12:12His gaze swept across the empty lobby, his crimson eyes narrowing slightly.
12:17Daniel brought you here?
12:18Where is he?
12:19He did not even consider the possibility that I had come alone.
12:22Anyone who knew me, knew my grasp of ancient languages, was practically non-existent.
12:27I grabbed his arm and pulled him toward the front desk, waving it off.
12:30He went to pick up a friend.
12:32Then, without bothering to hide my exhaustion, I added, can you help me get a room?
12:36I need to get into a coffin and sleep.
12:38I am not making it to sunrise like this.
12:41Before we parted, Alexander added, a little more serious now.
12:44The room they gave you won't be near mine.
12:46I'm in 1312 upstairs.
12:48If you need anything, come find me.
12:50I nodded quickly.
12:52Got it.
12:52You're still as naggy as you were back at the academy.
12:55Go get some rest.
12:57Good night.
12:57I had barely closed the lid of the coffin, when loud pounding shook the door.
13:01Half asleep, I assumed it was Alexander.
13:04I stumbled out, still groggy, and fumbled with the handle.
13:08The moment the door opened, someone pulled me into a tight embrace.
13:12Lydia, are you serious right now?
13:14Some random male vampire gets you a room, and you just go to sleep?
13:18Do you have any idea how long I've been looking for you?
13:21That voice snapped me fully awake.
13:23I shoved Daniel away.
13:25What else was I supposed to do?
13:27Sit in the lobby and wait for you until sunrise and turn to ash.
13:31His confidence faltered instantly.
13:33He opened his mouth, the shock of being pushed aside already forgotten.
13:37I'm sorry, this is on me.
13:39Camilla lost her night pass at the teleportation gate, so I stayed with her to look for it.
13:44As he spoke, he reached for my hand again.
13:46Lydia, come back to our suite with me.
13:48This room is perfect for Camilla.
13:50I stepped back, avoiding his touch.
13:53My voice flat, no thanks.
13:54I trust you, if there were really anything between the two of you, you'd already be together.
13:59It wouldn't be my place.
14:01Daniel froze.
14:02Because those were his words, the same excuse he had used on me, over and over again.
14:08Two years ago when Camilla came back and forgot to bring sleepwear, she wandered around in his
14:12oversized black t-shirt.
14:14Last year when she burned herself on silver during a castle visit, she insisted on clinging
14:19to him until he carried her.
14:21And this year, she even borrowed his expensive silver daquer to trim her nails.
14:26Every time I pointed out how inappropriate their closeness was.
14:30Every time I asked for some boundaries, Daniel would brush it off with that same line.
14:35If something were really going on, it would have happened already.
14:38I yawned, my fangs briefly visible, too tired to keep arguing.
14:42Without another word, I slammed the door in his face.
14:45Then I collapsed back onto the soft bed, and let myself fall asleep again.
14:50Sometime in my sleep, I vaguely remember hearing knocking again.
14:54When I woke up the next night, and saw a note slipped under the door, along with a stack
14:59of euros, and my passport, I realized, it had not been a dream.
15:03Lydia, I took Camilla to the eldest council office to replace her pass.
15:07I'll be back as soon as we're done.
15:08Don't be stingy with the money, I'll take you on a night cruise along the same tomorrow.
15:11I tucked the cash and my passport into my bag.
15:14As I passed the trash can, I tossed the note without a second thought.
15:18After getting ready, I opened the door and ran straight into Alexander, who had just been
15:22about to knock.
15:23I lit up.
15:24Alexander, perfect timing, he smiled, calm as ever.
15:27Guys it is.
15:28Is Daniel around?
15:29I thought I saw him heading out this morning, with another female vampire, when I went downstairs,
15:33for blood plasma.
15:34He's probably not back yet.
15:36I shrugged it off.
15:37Not about to let Daniel ruin what little piece I had left of this trip.
15:41Alexander casually took my bag from my shoulder.
15:43Then how about tonight, we go see the Eiffel Tower?
15:45I booked a private night cruise.
15:47Seriously?
15:48My eyes lit up instantly.
15:49Let's go.
15:50I've been dying to try the specialty blend at the underground blood bar, on the left bank.
15:55Paris was especially beautiful that night.
15:57We strolled past the Arc de Triomphe, thrifted along the same river on a private boat.
16:02Caused to listen to a wandering vampire musician playing the accordion by the riverbank.
16:07And finally, ended the night with dinner at an upscale night restaurant atop the Eiffel Tower.
16:12Back at the hotel, Alexander said he would come down with his camera to transfer the photos,
16:18so I left the door unlocked.
16:20A message popped up from him on WhatsApp.
16:22India, there's an issue with the pipes on the 13th floor.
16:25No hot water.
16:26Do you mind if I use your shower?
16:27No problem.
16:28Bring the camera down too.
16:29After handing me the camera, Alexander grabbed a change of clothes and stepped into the shower.
16:35I was completely absorbed in the photos, scrolling through shots after shots of the stunning night views.
16:40When someone knocked on the door, I called out automatically.
16:43Just a minute.
16:44Right then, Alexander walked out, towel in hand, drying his hair.
16:48He went over and opened the door for me.
16:51Son of a bitch.
16:52The curse snapped me out of it.
16:54I looked up just in time to see Daniel throwing a punch straight at Alexander.
16:58Daniel pointed at him, shirtless.
17:00A towel slung low around his waist, his eyes blazing red as he turned on me.
17:05What the hell is he?
17:06I frowned, genuinely confused by the way Daniel was acting like the wronged party.
17:11In the past, when he traveled with Camilla, he had even shared his suite with her without thinking twice.
17:16And whenever I argued with him about it, he would accuse me of having a dirty mind and being narrow
17:22-minded.
17:22Ow, he was standing here, looking like the victim.
17:25When I stayed silent, he grew more agitated.
17:28Lydia, answer me.
17:29Who the hell is this guy?
17:31A flicker of irritation crossed my eyes.
17:33He's just an old friend.
17:35Why are you making such a scene?
17:36I glanced at Alexander.
17:38The spot where Daniel had hit him was already swelling.
17:41Faint streaks of blood surfacing beneath the skin.
17:43My voice dropped, cold and sharp.
17:46Daniel, apologize.
17:48His eyes widened in disbelief.
17:50What?
17:50You want me to apologize to him?
17:52I looked at him, puzzled.
17:54He walked in and punched Alexander without a word.
17:56He's choosing not to make a scene out of basic courtesy.
17:59The least you can do is apologize.
18:02Daniel's eyes turned even redder.
18:04Something almost wounded flashing across his face.
18:07That was when Alexander spoke up, perfectly timed.
18:10It's fine.
18:11Lydia, if your boyfriend doesn't want to apologize, let it go.
18:14One hunch isn't a big deal.
18:16Vampire kind.
18:17He'll fast.
18:18Before I could respond, Daniel snapped like a bat, with its tail stepped on.
18:22Shut up.
18:22I'm talking to Lydia.
18:24Who said you could interrupt?
18:25The last bit of warmth drained from my face.
18:27I shoved Daniel back.
18:28The last bit of warmth drained from my face.
18:31I shoved Daniel back.
18:32If you can't manage to speak like a civilized pureblood elite, then there's nothing left for
18:37us to discuss tonight.
18:38I moved to slam the door shut.
18:40Daniel panicked, jamming his elbow against the heavy wood to stop it.
18:44Wait, Lydia.
18:45Lisa, that's not what I meant.
18:46Only when he stopped acting like he might explode at any second, did I loosen my grip.
18:51He immediately pushed his way inside, as if afraid I would shut him out again.
18:55Words rushing out in a desperate attempt to explain.
18:59Lydia, don't be mad.
19:00I was just worried.
19:01It's not that I don't trust you.
19:02It's just that this is Europe.
19:04I walked in and saw you alone, in a room, with a heaven necklace.
19:08Male vampire.
19:08I thought you might have been bitten.
19:11Alexander let out a quiet, mocking laugh.
19:14Sorry to interrupt.
19:14So Mr. Cook does understand that leaving Lydia alone in a foreign hotel is dangerous,
19:20especially when she can't even communicate in Old French.
19:23Daniel's face went pale instantly.
19:25He reached for my hand again, voice urgent.
19:28Lydia, yesterday really was an emergency.
19:32I've already helped Camilla get a temporary night pass from the Elder's Council office.
19:37From now on, I can focus entirely on you.
19:40I swear on my blood oath, I won't leave your side for the rest of this trip.
19:44He looked at me expectantly, searching my face, for any sign of relief, or happiness.
19:49There was none.
19:50I calmly pulled my hand away.
19:52You don't have to.
19:53You should go stay with Camilla.
19:55I've already made plans for the rest of the trip with Alexander.
19:58Panic flickered across his face.
20:00How can that work?
20:01Lydia, are you still upset, about me, and the Camilla?
20:05We're bondmates.
20:06How could I leave you, to go spend time with her?
20:08I frowned slightly.
20:09How many times had he already done exactly that?
20:13The thought of ending our bond had been on my mind for a while.
20:16He would have to hear it sooner or later, and I refused to let the rest of this trip be
20:21ruined by him and Camilla.
20:22After a brief pause, I said it.
20:25Daniel, we're done.
20:26It hit him like a bolt of pure silver lightning.
20:29He stood there, stunned, struggling to process it.
20:33Lydia, you're just angry.
20:34No matter how upset you are, you can't use breaking our bond to threaten me.
20:39I sighed.
20:39Saying it so abruptly was probably hard for him to accept.
20:43Fine.
20:44Then I would make it clear.
20:45I glanced at Alexander.
20:47He understood immediately.
20:49I'll head upstairs and change.
20:51He said, picking up his clothes from the bathroom.
20:53I'll come back down later for the camera.
20:55He made a quick gesture, like a phone.
20:57If you need anything, just send a blood raven message.
21:00I gave him a grateful smile.
21:02The moment he left, Daniel shut the door in.
21:04As if afraid of being interrupted, turned the lock several times before setting up a silencing ward.
21:09I walked over to the French sofa and gestured calmly for him to sit across from me.
21:14He hesitated, lips moving slightly, unable to form a complete sentence.
21:18As if any wrong word might set me off again.
21:21Camilla, her pause really was lost.
21:23He finally said, carefully watching my expression.
21:26When I remained completely indifferent, he grew anxious.
21:29Lydia, you have to believe me.
21:31There's nothing between us.
21:32We grew up in the same house.
21:33That's all.
21:34There's no way anything could ever happen.
21:36I nodded simply.
21:37I truly did not care anymore.
21:39So why was he still wasting time trying to explain this?
21:43Seeing how coot I was, his brow tightened further.
21:46Lydia, what's wrong with you?
21:48I tilted my head slightly.
21:49What do you mean?
21:51Isn't this exactly what you always wanted?
21:53I let out a quiet breath.
21:54Every time you spent the night out with Camilla, I used to act like I was guarding against a thief.
22:00I'd call you over and over again, terrified that if I looked away for even a second, you'd end up
22:05in the same coffin with her.
22:06Back then, he had gotten so angry, he blocked every way I had to contact him.
22:10When we got back to New York, he only forgave me after I promised again and again that I would
22:15stop being jealous of Camilla.
22:17And now, I had given him exactly what he wanted.
22:20Complete freedom.
22:21So why, now that he had it, was he the one complaining that I had changed?
22:25The thought suddenly struck me as almost laughable.
22:28I had wasted years of my long vampire life on a relationship like this.
22:32I had even nearly given up my chance to go to Seattle and rise within the elders council.
22:37Lydia, you were a fool.
22:38When I looked up again, the words came easily, almost like a relief.
22:42Daniel, let's end this.
22:44I don't love you anymore.
22:45Daniel looked like he was about to cry tears of blood.
22:49Then, out of nowhere, he asked,
22:51Is this because of Alexander?
22:52I blinked, caught off guard.
22:54I genuinely did not understand what Alexander had to do with any of this.
22:58I shook my head, still feeling the weight of exhaustion.
23:01No, this has nothing to do with him.
23:03I'm ending our blood bond because you never cared about me.
23:05And I don't love you anymore.
23:07That's all.
23:07Daniel fell silent.
23:09The room sank into a suffocating stillness.
23:11Then suddenly, someone knocked on the door.
23:14He moved like he was in a daze, undoing the silencing ward and opening it.
23:18Camilla stood outside.
23:19A moment she saw him, her legs seemed to give out as she collapsed into his arms.
23:24Daniel, I've been waiting for you and Lydia in the lobby forever.
23:27I think I had too much strong blood wine at the bar.
23:30I feel a little dizzy.
23:31Daniel instantly broke into a cold sweat.
23:34He tried to push her away while stumbling over his words.
23:37Rushing to explain.
23:38Lydia, don't get the wrong idea.
23:40Camilla and I are never this close.
23:42She's just drunk tonight.
23:43I looked at her, the exaggerated haze in her eyes, the way her arms clung to him like creeping
23:48vines, refusing to let go.
23:50It was obvious she was pretending.
23:52But whatever game existed between childhood companions was none of my business anymore.
23:56I was not about to insert myself into it as the ex.
23:59Okay, take your time.
24:01I'm going to sleep.
24:02At that, Daniel tried harder to pry her off, panic rising in his voice.
24:06Wait, Lydia.
24:07I'll take her back to her room and come right back.
24:09Don't go to sleep yet.
24:10I can't explain everything.
24:11The moment he said that, Camilla tightened her arms around his neck even more.
24:15She practically climbed onto him, her long legs locking around his waist.
24:19I had always believed in letting people have what they wanted.
24:23So as Daniel staggered out the door, tangled up with her, I shut it firmly behind them.
24:27There's nothing left to explain.
24:29Take care of Camilla.
24:30He tried to turn back, probably to knock again, but Camilla clung to him so tightly,
24:34he had no choice but to carry her toward the elevators, murmuring to calm her down.
24:39I had just sat down when something hit me.
24:41I shot to my feet and rushed out, moving so fast I was almost a blur.
24:45Wait, I'm coming with you.
24:47Daniel turned around, his face lighting up with sudden hope.
24:50Lydia, are you worried about me?
24:52Before he could finish, I cut him off.
24:54My luggage, the Soiland everything is still in your suite.
24:57The moment I got my suitcase back, I made a clean escape.
25:01While Daniel was still tangled up with Camilla, I took the opportunity to disappear.
25:05To avoid being bombarded later through bad messages, I went straight to the front desk
25:10and switched to a room on a different floor.
25:13That night, just as expected, I was left in peace.
25:16When I woke after sunset the next evening, I saw that Daniel had flooded my WhatsApp with messages.
25:21Lydia, are you asleep?
25:23I've settled Camilla into another coffin room.
25:25Don't worry, she's in a separate room.
25:27Can you open the door so we can talk?
25:29Are you already in torpor?
25:30If you are, we can talk tomorrow night.
25:32There has to be some serious misunderstanding between us.
25:36Please give me a chance to explain.
25:37I swear on the progenitor, I will never cross any boundaries with Camilla again.
25:42There were dozens more.
25:44Along with several missed voice calls, I did not bother reading the rest.
25:48I blocked him.
25:49I still had to go back to New York to pack up my things from the underground manor we
25:53shared, so it was not time to delete everything completely, but this was enough for now.
25:58After confirming a time to meet Alexander, I started peeking out what to wear.
26:02I settled on a Gothic-inspired French gown for the night.
26:06By the time I arrived at the night restaurant, Alexander had already ordered a classic French
26:11blood feast.
26:12He pulled out a chair for me like a perfect gentleman.
26:15Once I sat down, he served me a bowl of silver-filtered unicorn blood bisque.
26:20Try this.
26:20I think you'll like it.
26:22Before I could thank him, a tall shadow fell over the table.
26:25Daniel, he appeared like a ghost, pulled out a chair, and sat down without asking.
26:29Then he shoved the bowl aside with a sharp motion.
26:32Trying this hard to impress her?
26:33That's suspicious.
26:34Don't you know Lydia hates blood mixed with silver?
26:37Just like I do?
26:38Alexander paused, then looked at me with a hint of guilt.
26:41Really?
26:42Sorry Lydia, I thought your taste hadn't changed since the Turning Academy.
26:46The Turning Academy?
26:47At those words, Daniel's face turned an ugly shade of green.
26:50We had only met after joining the Elder's Council.
26:53The version of me from the Academy was something he had never known.
26:57I shook my head at Alexander and calmly pulled the bowl back in front of me.
27:01No, he remembered wrong.
27:03I've always liked silver-filtered blends.
27:05The truth was simple.
27:06Daniel was severely allergic to even trace amounts of silver.
27:09He also hated the metallic aftertaste, once the blood cooled.
27:13So after we moved in together, I had given it up for his sake.
27:16Daniel's already pale face looked even worse.
27:19Only after I finished the soup at my own pace did he manage to steady himself enough to speak again.
27:24So, what's your plan for the rest of the night?
27:27Did you get tickets to the Underground Louvre?
27:29I know quite a few vampires here, if you need access to a VIP shadow corridor.
27:33I set down my linen napkin, thanks.
27:35But Alexander already had a blood servant secure tickets in advance.
27:39Then I turned to Alexander.
27:40Are you done?
27:41If you are, let's head out.
27:42I'm good, let's go.
27:43He stood up immediately, perfectly in sync with me.
27:46Daniel seemed completely thrown off.
27:48Then, I'll come with you.
27:50He said quickly.
27:51If you need help with old French, I can.
27:53I picked up my bag.
27:55That won't be necessary.
27:56Alexander has lived in Europe for centuries.
27:58His old French is fluent.
28:00You should stay with Camilla.
28:01Daniel looked lost.
28:02My refusal had clearly shaken him more than anything else tonight.
28:05Seeing us ready to leave, he scrambled for something to say.
28:08How are you getting there?
28:10I can drive you.
28:11I rented a UV-protected car.
28:13I already booked a private night driver through an app last night.
28:16My patience was gone.
28:18No, he fell quiet, finally backing off.
28:21But he could not resist one last attempt.
28:23If you don't need me, then I'll go meet a pure-blood friend in Paris with Camilla tonight.
28:28He stared at me, searching my face for any sign of jealousy.
28:31There was none.
28:32I kept walking, heels clicking against the floor.
28:34Your plans are your business.
28:36You don't need to report them to me.
28:37Daniel went silent, deflated like a bat with the air knocked out of it.
28:41I let out a long breath.
28:42Finally, I could enjoy the romance of Paris at night without him.
28:46I thought Daniel had finally gotten the message and decided to leave me alone.
28:50But when we returned to the hotel just before dawn, Alexander received an urgent call about
28:55territory business.
28:56He stayed outside in the shadows of the entrance to handle it and told me to go upstairs and
29:00rest.
29:01The moment I stepped into the grand lobby, Daniel appeared again, as if he had been waiting
29:06there for hours, sticking to me like glue.
29:09Lydia, you are still mad at me, aren't you?
29:12The question caught me completely off guard.
29:15Mad about what?
29:16You blocked my number.
29:17I stared at him, genuinely incredulous at the hopeful look in his deep crimson eyes.
29:22You can't seriously think I blocked you because you spent the entire night running around with
29:26Camilla.
29:27To my disbelief, he actually nodded.
29:29I almost wondered if he had left his brain back in New York.
29:33Seriously?
29:33I blocked you because you spammed me with messages all night.
29:37It was annoying.
29:38We've already ended our blood bond.
29:40Whatever you and Camilla do next, form a blood alliance or get married.
29:44It has nothing to do with me.
29:46I won't interfere and I definitely won't interrupt your little world together.
29:50So please, act like a centuries-old adult vampire and leave me alone.
29:54Let me enjoy my vacation.
29:56Stop saying things like that, just to push me away.
30:00Fortunately, his performance was cut short by Camilla Colley.
30:03Daniel hesitated, glancing down at the screen.
30:06His finger hovered over the answer button, then paused at the last second.
30:10A perfect chance to escape.
30:11I was more than happy to help.
30:13I reached out and tapped except for him.
30:16The call connected immediately and Camilla's soft, pitiful voice filled the speaker.
30:20Daniel, can you come pick me up?
30:22It's almost sunrise and I can't get an Uber.
30:24Chloe had an emergency with her coffin and already left.
30:28I'm out here alone.
30:29I don't know any other vampires here.
30:31I'm really scared.
30:32Daniel hesitated, which was rare.
30:34Find Shengwei safe and out of the light first.
30:36Maybe a cafe or a basement.
30:38I'll call a friend here and have them come get you.
30:40I raised an eyebrow.
30:42Surprise!
30:42What was this?
30:43Since when did Daniel not drop everything for her?
30:46In the past, he would already be flooring the accelerator, racing through the night like
30:50some kind of dark night to rescue her.
30:52Clearly, Camilla had not expected to be refused either.
30:55There was a brief pause on the other end before she spoke again, her tone shifting into that
30:59familiar, carefully crafted vulnerability.
31:01But I don't really know your friends, and it's almost dawn.
31:04They're probably going back to their coffins soon.
31:06I don't want to trouble anyone, or cause you problems.
31:09I watched, fascinated, as Daniel's expression shifted between conflict and hesitation.
31:13So even her tried and true act did not always work.
31:17Still, I had no intention of sticking around to see how this played out.
31:20The sooner I got away from him, the better.
31:22I turned on my heel, and headed straight for the elevators.
31:25Well, if you've got a damsel to rescue, you should get going.
31:28I'm exhausted.
31:29I'm heading back to sleep.
31:30And don't knock on my door again.
31:31Goodbye.
31:32Actually, better yet, let's not see each other again.
31:35Lydia.
31:35There was a flicker of hurt in his eyes.
31:37I ignored him completely.
31:39The moment I stepped into the elevator, I started jabbing the close button without
31:43hesitation.
31:44Over the next few nights, Alexander and I decided we'd had enough of the noise, and
31:49switched to a more discreet castle hotel.
31:51A vacation without an X buzzing in my ear like a mosquito, was exactly what I needed.
31:57But come Monday, I was due to report to the Seattle Division of the Vampire Consortium.
32:01If I didn't get back to my New York apartment and pack soon, I'd be cutting it way too close.
32:06I picked a time when Daniel would normally be at the elders' council building, and returned
32:11to our underground manor in Manhattan.
32:13The moment I pushed the door open, though, I found him spalled stiffly across the dark
32:17velvet couch, still in a wrinkled black silk shirt, dead asleep.
32:21The creak of the door snapped him awake.
32:23He sat up abruptly, and our eyes locked.
32:26I forced an awkward smile, letting the edge of a fang show.
32:29I'm just here to grab the rest of my things.
32:32I'll be out as soon as I'm done.
32:34Daniel didn't answer right away.
32:36He just stared at me with a look that was equal parts hollow and complicated.
32:40After a long pause, he finally spoke, his voice hoarse.
32:43You accepted the reassignment from the elders' council.
32:47You're moving to Seattle next week.
32:49That caught me off guard.
32:50How did he know that much?
32:52As if reading my mind, he lowered his gaze.
32:54After you blocked me, I tried everything.
32:57Blood magic.
32:58Every contact method I had.
33:00Nothing worked.
33:00I waited here for days after I got back.
33:03You never came home.
33:04I even went to your company building, and asked around.
33:07That's how I found out you were being transferred to the west coast.
33:11I didn't respond.
33:12There wasn't anything I wanted to say.
33:14The silence stretched until it felt suffocating.
33:17Finally, he spoke again, almost pleading.
33:20Lydia, can we sit down and talk?
33:21It was time to end this properly.
33:23I took a seat across from him.
33:25Fine, say what you need to say.
33:27Daniel met my eyes, more serious than I had ever seen him.
33:30I swear, I'll cut off all private contact with Camilla.
33:33From now on, every night, will be yours.
33:35We can form a blood bond again.
33:37Start over, please.
33:38I felt nothing.
33:40No anger.
33:40No sadness.
33:41Just a faint sense of absurdity.
33:43He gave a bitter smile and continued, dissecting himself, piece by piece.
33:47I know you've always hated how close I was to her.
33:50I've thought about it these past few days.
33:52You're my bound mate.
33:53Your feelings should have come first.
33:54I crossed lines I shouldn't have.
33:56I swear it won't happen again.
33:58Whatever problems Camilla has, she can deal with them herself.
34:01I shouldn't have taken your love for granted.
34:02I shouldn't have assumed you'd never leave.
34:04I was arrogant, careless.
34:05I acted like a complete idiot.
34:07But I know I was wrong.
34:08Just give me one last chance.
34:10We can go back to how things were, when we were newly turned.
34:12Please.
34:13So that was it.
34:14He had always known exactly what he was doing.
34:16He had always been capable of drawing a line with her.
34:19He just never wanted to do it for me.
34:21I let out a soft laugh.
34:23There's really no need.
34:24I stopped caring a long time ago whether you and Camilla were sharing a bloodbath or keeping
34:28things strictly platonic.
34:30Then I added, almost casually, and don't worry, I don't hate you.
34:34If the two of you end up together someday, I'll even send a congratulations card.
34:38Daniel shot to his feet.
34:40You think I'm lying?
34:41You don't believe me?
34:42His voice rose sharply.
34:43I'll prove it to you right now.
34:45Right in front of me.
34:46He activated ascending circle and connected to Camilla.
34:49The circle flickered twice before her voice came through, light and teasing.
34:53Wow, Daniel, it's only been a few nights.
34:56Miss me already?
34:57Normally, that kind of flirtation would have drawn an indulgent smile from him.
35:01This time, his expression hardened.
35:03Camilla, listen carefully.
35:05I'm saying this clearly.
35:06I already have Lydia as my partner.
35:08From now on, we keep our distance.
35:10Unless it's an emergency, that'll get you burned to ash in sunlight.
35:13Don't contact me again.
35:15A sharp intake of breath crackled through the circle.
35:17Daniel, it's not April Fool's.
35:19What kind of joke is this?
35:20Her voice trembled, rising with disbelief.
35:23What happened?
35:24We were perfectly happy in Paris.
35:26We promised, back when we were embraced, that we'd spend eternity together.
35:30And now you're throwing that away for some woman.
35:32Then her tone shifted, brittle and defensive.
35:35Oh, I get it.
35:37Lydia's throwing another one of her little fits, isn't she?
35:39I told you from the start.
35:41Someone that petty and low tear doesn't deserve you.
35:44Enough.
35:44Shut up.
35:45Daniel cut her off with a furious snap.
35:47Lydia is my partner.
35:48You will show her respect.
35:50And I'm not joking.
35:51We're done.
35:52Don't contact me again.
35:53The communication charm.
35:55His device began vibrating nonstop.
35:57Camilla was calling over and over.
35:58Without hesitation, he crushed the phone itself in his hand.
36:01Magic shattering it into useless fragments.
36:04Then he turned to me, his expression almost desperate.
36:07Please.
36:08See, Lydia, I've made it clear.
36:09I'll make it up to you.
36:11I'll devote myself to you completely.
36:12I looked at him quietly, this suddenly unfamiliar man, and felt nothing but exhaustion.
36:17Daniel, I said softly, it's too late.
36:20I don't love.
36:21Don't.
36:21He cut me off, panic flashing across his face.
36:24Please don't say it.
36:25It's not too late.
36:26We can rebuild the blood bond.
36:28Then, as if making a final, irreversible decision,
36:31he clenched his fists.
36:32I'll resign from the Elder's Council.
36:34I'll go to Seattle with you.
36:36We can start over.
36:37I had to admit, for a split second, that shook me.
36:39A pure-blood diplomat who lived for power, willing to throw it all away from me.
36:43But the moment I thought back on the past three years,
36:46every quiet humiliation, every compromise that had cost me pieces of myself,
36:50clarity hit like ice water laced with silver.
36:53Stop, I said calmly.
36:55Don't romanticize this.
36:56Let's end it here.
36:57Leave each other with at least a little dignity.
36:59That's the best ending we're going to get.
37:02I didn't stay any longer than I had to.
37:04I grabbed a few essentials and walked out of that suffocating manor for good.
37:08The rest of my belongings, including my coffin and equipment,
37:11I had packed and shipped through a professional blood-servant moving company,
37:15via the shadow corridor straight to Seattle.
37:17After that, I stayed in a discreet, boarded hotel in the city,
37:21where my new company was based, avoiding Daniel entirely.
37:24Three nights before my official start date, I finally signed a long-term basement lease,
37:29with a well-connected local landlord in Seattle.
37:32With a bit of time to spare, I flew back to New York,
37:35to retrieve the last few important scrolls I had left behind.
37:38Somehow, Daniel got hold of a new contact method, and reached me.
37:42His messages were desperate, begging me to wait,
37:44saying he was wrapping up his final handovers,
37:47and would fly to see me one last time.
37:49I didn't reply, not even a period.
37:51Before passing through security at the teleportation gate,
37:54I pulled the SIM card out of my iPhone,
37:56and tossed it straight into a trash bin in the terminal.
37:59Right then, connected to the gate's free Wi-Fi,
38:01WhatsApp lit up with a new message.
38:03Lydia, are you at the night corridor,
38:05of the Seattle-Tacoma International Teleportation Gate?
38:08It was from Alexander.
38:10Also, was he here too?
38:11I looked up, scanning the crowded arrivals area.
38:14Stay where you are, I can smell you, I'll find you.
38:17I typed back quickly, okay.
38:19I stepped aside behind a pillar,
38:21pulling my suitcase filled with soil,
38:22out of the way of the rushing night travelers.
38:25Lydia.
38:26A light tap landed on my shoulder.
38:27I turned, and there he was, Alexander Carter,
38:30dressed in a shark, vintage-inspired suit,
38:33a Ramoa suitcase in hand, just like mine.
38:35I couldn't help but smile.
38:37Wow, what are the odds?
38:39Yeah, he said with a grin.
38:40Pretty incredible.
38:41What brings you all the way to Seattle?
38:43Business, territory negotiations?
38:45He shook his head,
38:46those striking ruby eyes catching the light.
38:48No, I'm here to officially join my new division.
38:51Then, with unexpected formality,
38:53he extended his pale, cool hand.
38:55Miss Lydia Ross,
38:56looks like we'll be working in the same warded office.
38:58I'll be counting on you.
38:59Something clicked in my mind.
39:01I remembered someone from the executive council,
39:03mentioning that headquarters had spent a fortune,
39:05recruiting an elite pureblood from a European house,
39:09someone who would be starting in Seattle
39:11at the same time as me.
39:12I smiled, understanding at last,
39:14and took his hand.
39:15Nice to meet you, Mr. Alexander Carter.
39:18Looks like we'll be seeing a lot of each other
39:20for a very long time.
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