(Malik)
The sun hung high in the sky, lighting the world in an almost unbearable brightness, a stark contrast to the darkness that encroached upon my heart. I had just settled into my castle's grand study, ensconced in ancient texts filled with wisdom and lore of my long existence. I found solace in the written words, grounding me as the Vampire King, commanding power and reverence. Yet, my mind strayed to Juriel, my beautiful and special human mate, whose laughter still echoed sweetly in my mind. It saddens me that I didn't see her this morning. She was gone by the time I woke up to make her breakfast.
It was a trivial day of peace; perhaps too peaceful. In a moment that shattered my calm, my phone vibrated violently against the polished mahogany surface, drawing my attention. I fisted
