Verena Lying here in the silence of Niklaus’ guest bedroom, the world outside seems both distant and pressing, a paradox that mirrors the turmoil swirling inside me. My mother’s words, those cryptic messages delivered with her last breaths, hang in the air like a fog I can’t navigate through. The
And to what end? But as I steel myself for what’s to come, I can’t deny the ache in my heart. The longing for someone to share this burden with. Niklaus has been a steadfast presence, a source of strength I didn’t know I needed. His support, his quiet understanding, it’s become something I’ve come
Niklaus As the door closes behind Verena, a mix of emotions churns within me. Frustration, concern, anger — a cocktail that’s becoming all too familiar these days. She’s adamant about carving out her space, insistent on handling her demons alone, but the thought of leaving her unprotected is not
Verena I need to plan this. I can’t exactly waltz into Lucan’s territory and demand entry into my mother’s home, now can I? Then there’s the little issue of telling Anabella that our mother died. I honestly don’t know how much she knows about this, anyway. Come to think of it, when my mother died
My mind reels at the mention of a name I’ve never heard, a lifeline thrown in the midst of my despair. Who is Axton Moreau? And what does he know about all this? “I love you, Verena,” my mother says, her voice a whisper of pain and love. “I’m so sorry.” The video ends with a click, leaving me in a
“I didn’t mean to scare you,” he says, his voice laced with humor. “You didn’t,” I reply, more curtly than I intend. “It’s just been a long day.” He nods, a gesture that conveys understanding. “Well, if you need an ear to bend or just someone to distract you from the long hours ahead, I’m here. Ca
Verena The plane touched down just after midnight, but luckily I planned my trip even though I was completely shattered. Now I’m pacing the length of my motel room, wondering how the hell I’m going to do this. My mother told me to find Axton Moreau in the French Quarter; does that fucking mean I h
My mother’s warning, her instructions to find him, it all seems like a sick joke now. How could she send me to a vampire? What was she thinking? “Not in any danger?” I echo, incredulous. “You had someone drug me and bring me here! And you’re a vampire!” Each word feels surreal, like I’m speaking li