¬ Hiln
The night air was cool against my skin as we made our way back toward the castle.
We had stopped at a small establishment after the play to eat. The food was simple but good and the patrons paid no attention to a group of humans and their vampire escorts. For a precious hour or two, it felt nice.
But now the city was quieter, the streets were even livelier, and the weight of my decision pressed down on me with every step.
Becca walked beside me in silence. I could feel her confusion, her panic, radiating off her like heat from a flame.
She must be wondering why I was going back to the castle grounds.
I smiled sadly and held out the bag she had given me earlier.
"Please, hold this for me," I said quietly. "I am tired."
Becca stared at the bag like it was a foreign object. Her hands trembled as she took it, clutching it against her chest.
"I do not understand," she breathed.
"I know."
