Vail screamed when I walked through the front door.
“Did you walk home like that?” she asked.
I turned to examine my reflection in the hallway mirror. I was covered in blood from head to toe, my fangs still out, and my hair was matted.
“No, I drove,” I said, plopping down on the couch and putting my feet up on the coffee table. “It’s also 3 a.m. and everyone in town is asleep.” I felt a twinge of annoyance.
“Please don’t sit on the couch like that, you’re filthy.”
“Too late.” I picked up one of her spellbooks and flipped through the pages. “I have a body in my trunk if you want to help me collect the blood.”
“What’s wrong with you?”
“Nothing.”
“Rosie, what happened tonight?” She pushed my feet off my coffee table.
“I said nothing. You’re being a pain in my ass,” I shot at her, getting up from the couch and walking away.
She called after me, “I thought you had this under control!”
“Yeah, well … I guess I don’t!” I admitted, slamming my bedroom door behind me.
I sat down on my bed and looked down at my hands. Dried blood settled in the creases of my fingers, and a wave of emotions surged through me. Tears began to flow, and soon escalated into gasping sobs, my throat constricting for air.
Vail knocked on my door and opened it, not waiting for my response. She came over and held me in her arms, placing my head against her chest.
“Do you at least feel better?” she asked softly.
“No.” I felt like I was drowning inside.
“Come on, let me help you.” She led me into the bathroom and started the shower for me. I took off my clothes and stepped in, watching as the water turned crimson and swirled down the drain. I stood there until the water turned cold and reluctantly stepped out.
I went back to my bedroom, and Vail appeared again with a mug in hand. “I made you a potion to help you sleep,” she said, handing it to me.
“Thanks.” I took it and climbed into bed.
“I also drove your car around the back and brought the body to the garage. I will deal with it.”
I nodded, but a sickening wave of guilt rose in my chest. Vail had come back into my life, and once again, I was letting her clean up my messes. I closed my eyes, exhaustion weighing me down.
Vail pressed her lips to my forehead. “Love you,” she said softly and closed the door.
EIGHTEEN
March 23, 1891
Dear Vail,
I have been eagerly awaiting your responses, as I trust your insight in matters of the heart.
Recently, there was a moment … that could have changed everything. I nearly kissed him. I know what you might be thinking, “Rosie, you are always kissing boys!” However, this time felt different. I have never felt such a profound connection with someone. To be honest, it scared me. Our eyes met, and I felt the world around us fade away. The desire was undeniable and overwhelming. I could feel my heart pounding. However, I stopped before anything happened.
I cannot let myself be swept away without considering the consequences. He is a remarkable man, and my feelings for him run deeper than I ever anticipated. Yet, he is complex and secretive—I don’t even know if he shares these feelings toward me. I fear that if I rush into something, it might end up causing me more pain.
I have had enough heartache.
How do I navigate these feelings? What should I do?
