章 28: I need to feed on blood

" Let's talk when you're ready." I replay the message I had send to Elena in my head and my message was left on read, was it that bad. I don't know.

The night wore on, and despite my best efforts, work remained an elusive refuge. Every task felt like a monumental effort, my usual efficiency buried under layers of doubt and self-reflection.

Eventually, I decided to call it a night. There was no point in staying if I couldn't focus. I gathered my things and made my way to the elevator, the silence of the office a stark contrast to the chaos inside my mind.

As I drove home, the city's nightlife unfolded around me, vibrant and alive. But I felt disconnected, an observer rather than a participant. The streets were busy, filled with people who seemed to have everything figured out, while I was grappling with emotions I didn't fully understand.