Chapter 26: House of Nox

"Valerie, it's nice to see you too," Kael grinned, pushing the woman away from the trembling Jacquelyn.

Valerie's grin grew wider as she kissed Kael's hand, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "I thought you brought a gift for me... her blood smells divine, even from a mile away."

Jacquelyn's grip on Kael's shirt tightened, her heart racing with fear. Just yesterday, she had vowed to avoid danger, yet here she was, surrounded by vampires, with one eyeing her like a succulent dessert.

Kael's expression turned thoughtful, his finger tracing his lips. "Her blood smells delicious?" he repeated, his gaze drifting to Jacquelyn, who was practically clinging to him, her fingers almost making a hole in his skin. "And not the other way around?"

Valerie's chuckle sent shivers down Jacquelyn's spine. "Are you here to play with me, Kael? Is she my prey... or yours? Let me know."