Chapter 81: Bloodlust

The fluorescent lights suddenly seem too bright, the air too thick. I force myself to breathe, to move. Mechanically, I finish my shopping, barely registering what I'm putting in the cart.

At the checkout, I fumble with my wallet, nearly dropping it twice. The cashier gives me a concerned look, but I manage a weak smile. I can't get out of here fast enough.

Somehow, I feel as though I'm being chased down. Hunted. All because of an unsettling encounter with a creepy vampire.

The parking lot feels exposed. I hurry to my car, constantly glancing over my shoulder. My hands shake as I load the groceries into the trunk. Each rustle of a plastic bag sounds like footsteps approaching.

Finally, I slide into the driver's seat and lock the doors. The silence inside the car is deafening. I lean my forehead against the steering wheel, trying to calm my racing heart.

What the hell was that about?