Claimed by the Vampire King

Chapter 3: The Taste of Eternity

I couldn't sleep.

The penthouse was too quiet, too perfect. Every surface gleamed, every corner screamed money and control.

Damian's control.

I slipped out of bed, bare feet silent on the cool marble floor. The kitchen light was on — a soft glow.

He was there, back to me, pouring something red into a crystal glass.

Not wine.

Blood.

My stomach twisted, but I didn't run.

He turned, sensing me.

"You're awake."

"Hard to sleep after... everything."

He set the glass down. "You should eat. Human food."

"I'm not hungry."

He stepped closer, eyes searching my face.

"You're pale. Your blood — it's special. It needs replenishing."

I backed up a step. "You want to feed from me?"

"Not yet." His voice was low, careful. "But the bond is pulling. I can feel your weakness."

I laughed shakily. "Weakness? I survived three vampires attacking me."

"You did." Pride flashed in his eyes. "But your blood is rare. It calls to us. Heals us. Can even... change us."

"Change how?"

He hesitated. "Make us walk in sunlight again. Feel human emotions fully. Some say even reverse the curse."

I stared. "That's why they were hunting me."

"Yes. And why I can't let you go."

He moved closer, slow.

"I won't take without permission," he said. "But the bond... it makes me want things."

His hand brushed my neck, thumb tracing my pulse.

I shivered — not from cold.

"Your heart is racing."

"Because you're scaring me."

"And exciting you."

I couldn't deny it.

The pull was there — magnetic.

His lips hovered near my throat.

"Just a taste," he whispered. "To strengthen you. The bond works both ways."

I should have said no.

But I tilted