Page 49

It's become a sanctuary I visit to escape the pressures of daily life. Now, I need its comforting familiarity more than ever. A temporary refuge from the chaotic supernatural entanglements I left behind in Seattle.

My thoughts drift back to the mysteries awaiting me—the lab’s sterile halls, the bar’s smoky corners...and Rhyland. Unbidden, my skin tingles, recalling his strong hands exploring my body, his earthy scent enveloping my senses…

The vivid memory of the vampire attack at the bar flashes again. My fury and fear as clenched fists began to glow, heat building. The panic rose as this deadly new power threatened to erupt, nearly exposing my terrifying secret...

I rush to open the window, gulping the crisp autumn air to calm down. Breathe. Think. But there are too many mysteries, too much I still don't understand. I shake my head, redirecting my thoughts. I came here to get distance, to clear my cluttered mind. But Rhyland's dark allure still lingers, casting its shadow over this peaceful place. And I know soon I must return and confront the secrets that await back home. But for now, I will seek comfort in the tranquility of this haven, however fleeting it may prove.

The savory aroma of Mom's famous lasagna draws me eagerly into the warm, cozy kitchen. Golden light from the setting sun streams in through the windows, casting a homey glow over the worn wooden table set for three.

"Perfect timing, kiddo. Have a seat," Dad says with a broad grin, putting down the salad bowl. I slide into my usual chair, comforted by the familiarity of our family dinner ritual. For a moment, we chat about ordinary things—work, books, idle town gossip. It feels good to pretend, just for now, that everything is normal.

"Tell us about your latest lab projects," Dad asks after a few bites of garlic bread. "Making any groundbreaking discoveries?"

I set my fork down and leaned forward excitedly. "Actually, yes. I found something extraordinary in my latest blood sample..." I describe the strange double helix, watching my parents share a subtle, surprised look.

Mom recovers first, her brow furrowing with concern. "How puzzling. What do you think it could mean, dear?"

I swirl my wine pensively. "I'm not sure yet. But it feels important somehow. Like it's connected to my biological parents." I hesitated, then blurted out, "I was hoping you might have records from my adoption, anything that could help me learn more..."

Dad and Mom exchange another uneasy glance. Dad clears his throat gently. "Sweetie, we've talked about this. Your adoption was closed with no identifying details. Your origins don't change who you are now."

I nod silently, trying not to show my bitter disappointment. They're shielding me, like always. Outside, the sun slips below the horizon, and a chill creeps through the window. I feel suddenly cold and lonelier than ever in my search for answers.

Mom chimes between bites. “And how’s the job at the bar? Have you made any new friends there?”

I shift nervously, memories of unbridled passion and strong hands flashing unbidden. "It's... it's good. The people are definitely interesting."

I take a sip of wine to stall. My heart quickens, thinking of Rhyland's earthy scent and hypnotic voice. Emotions swirl inside me—longing, uncertainty, dangerous thrill.

“Speaking of meeting people,” Dad says with a sly grin, “have you… met anyone special?”

I consider deflecting but finally admit, "There's this one guy..." I'm unsure what to reveal about our bizarre connection.

Mom and Dad's eyes light up with curiosity. "What's he like?"

"I'll... tell you more later," I murmur, dropping my gaze. They share a look but don't push further. We pass the rest of dinner, reminiscing, their laughter a comforting blanket.

"For now, let's just enjoy our time together," I say, hoping to end the Rhyland discussion.

My parents despise the new normal of living in a world full of vampires, so they choose to live here, as far away as possible. If I were to tell them I’m seeing one now, they would shit a brick.

“Of course, sweetheart,” Dad agrees, and we spend the rest of dinner reminiscing about family trips and shared memories, laughter filling the room as we bask in each other’s company.

But despite the warmth of their love and support, I can’t entirely shake the lingering thoughts of Rhyland and the strange, magnetic pull he seems to have over me. As much as I try to push him aside, his presence lingers in the back of my mind, a puzzle waiting to be solved. The nagging turmoil of my parents wanting to protect me from the truth of my biological parents begins to weigh on me again.

“I think I’m going to turn in,” I murmur, rising from my seat.

“Of course, dear,” Mom says, her eyes warm with affection. “We’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Good night, sweetheart,” Dad adds, giving me a gentle pat on the shoulder as I pass him.

“Good night,” I echo softly.

Later, despite my parents' comforting love, Rhyland invades my thoughts once more. My pulse quickens, recalling his strong embrace and the heat of his breath on my skin. He represents temptation and peril, yet his aura of mystery helplessly draws me.

My parents wish to shield me from darker truths, as they've always done. But my DNA, my emerging powers—I can't keep them a secret forever. I yearn to confide in my family, yet dread their reaction. Will they still accept me once they know the whole, terrifying truth?

Outside under the stars, I ache with inner division—one foot planted in the light of hearth and home; the other pulled inexorably toward shadowy uncertainty. I don't know how to bridge the two worlds calling me.