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I walk out a few minutes later, completely dazed.

I’m a vampire.

No, I’m pre-vampiric.

I drive to the pharmacy with the heavy packet in my lap. As I’m parking, I realize the pharmacists will know what I am. I’m going to have to smile and pretend it’s not completely freaky that I’m a vampire.

Pre-vampiric.

Whatever.

Will they look me in the eye? Or shy away from me like I’m a monster?

Are they going to offer me blood smoothie recipes?

Groaning, I drop my forehead to the steering wheel. If I ever see Ethan again, I’m going to kill him.

My phone rings before I can work up the courage to leave my car. I don’t recognize the number.

“Hello?” I answer hesitantly.

“Hi there,” a friendly female voice says. “Are you Piper Edwards?”

“Yes…”

“Great! I’m Emma with NIHA. I understand you just had your appointment with…” She pauses as if she’s glancing down at her paperwork. “Dr. Granger. Is that right?”

“I did…”

Wow, they’re fast.

“Did she explain a little bit about our organization?”

“A little?—”

“Wonderful! I’m calling to let you know we’ve assigned you to Montgomery York. He’ll drop by your house tomorrow to introduce himself. What’s a good time for you?”

Montgomery York. My new nanny.

“I work from home, so…anytime. I guess.”

“He’ll send you a text when he’s on his way. Now is the perfect time to write down any questions you might have for him. He’ll be happy to answer them for you tomorrow.”

“Um. Okay.”

“It was nice to talk to you, Piper. If you need to contact the office, you may use this number. Can I help you with anything else while I have you on the line?”

“I don’t think so...”

“Awesome!” she chirps. “Have a wonderful night!”

Then she hangs up.

I stare at my phone. She was awfully chipper for working at a vampire-regulating organization.

Shaking my head, I step out of my car and head into the pharmacy. I feel like everyone is staring at me. This is worse than buying tampons.

“Hi,” I say when I reach the back counter. “My doctor called in a prescription for me.”