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“Can I have a minute alone with Amelia, please?” Dr. Mendhi asks.

Erin reluctantly agrees and leaves with the rest of the family. After that display, I don’t have to be worried about Erin not holding her own. I don’t know many vampires, let alone humans that would stand up to the whole family the way she just did.

“You skipped doses,” Dr. Mendhi says. He’s not asking.

“I forgot,” I say weakly.

“And you almost killed yourself because of it. Amelia, the serum, will only help for so long as it is. Being this close to Erin but not sealing your union is going to catch up to you, and soon.”

“I hear you. I’m going to talk to her.”

“Do it quickly. That was a severe attack. I honestly don’t know if you’d survive another one.”

“Well, it’s better than going slowly crazy, I suppose,” I say deadpan. He doesn’t find me amusing.

“Rest for the next day or two. Doctor’s orders. I have given you enough serum for the next four hours. After that, you must go back to regular injections. You mustn’t miss a single dose. I thought I was clear with you before?”

“Yes, I promise, I’ll take it.”

“Okay. I’ll leave you to sleep for a little while.” He moves from the bed but pauses. His face registers some amusement. “You’ve got yourself a live one there, Amelia,” he grins.

“Ha, you’re telling me.”

My mother is the next person to visit. She looks a little worse for wear. “How are you, love?”

“Could be better.”

“No waiting, Amelia. You have to tell her.”

“I know,” I sigh. “Let me get stronger first. I think I’m going to need the energy to get through this in one piece.”

“She never left your side. I know there is a lot to discuss, and I doubt the path forward will be an easy one for you both, but Amelia, there is no doubt in anyone’s mind that she doesn’t feel the way you do. Or is at least getting there. I imagine she’s still confused by her feelings but… my, my, she gave us all a good dressing down. I was a little scared, if I’m honest.” I laugh at my mom’s startled face as she relives whatever Erin put them all through.

“I told you she was a fiery one.”

“Indeed. Erin wants to come in. Is that okay?”

“Yes, please.”

Mother leans over and kisses my head. “I love you, Amelia.”

“You too, Mom.”

I take a few calming breaths. Erin dashes into the room, climbing straight onto the bed. My heart already feels lighter. She takes me in her arms, which aren’t that big. We must look a strange sight. Me being so much bigger, nestled in her tiny frame.

“You scared me, Amelia,” she whispers in my hair.

“I’m sorry.” I should also apologize for kissing her with blood oozing out of my mouth.

“Claire is back now. I called her.”

“What time is it?” Erin is still in her birthday dress. “How long was I asleep?”

“Three hours.”

“Erin, I’m so sorry. I ruined your birthday.”

“No, don’t bother.”