Page 155 of Vameer

Then the portal disappears.

Chapter 87

May Branock

“It has never been more important to report current events quickly and without interference.” The small microphone attached to my blazer projects my voice through the packed hall.

Hundreds of my fellow journalists fill the seats, watching as I slowly pace the stage.

I pause in the center and try to ignore the faint buzz, unsure if it’s real or in my head. “Since you’re here, I will assume you are familiar with the history between humanity and Alts. Meaning you’re familiar with how fra—” Something cracks between my fingers, like a static spark.

I press my fingers together and smile, sure the mini electric shock was big enough to be seen.

“How fragile—” The buzzing in my ear cuts off. “The, uh, truce is.”

I’m not usually this easy to distract.

Get it together, May.

I take a breath in through my nose to center myself. But my brows lower.

It smells like rain.

Another inhale.

And either I’m having a medical episode or something else is happening to me. Because I swear it smells like rain in an apple orchard.

Then I feel it.

The shift in energy.

My gaze lifts to the doors at the back of the room.

There are three sets of two.

One second.

Two—

The middle set opens.

And a man ducks through.

My pulse thuds in my ears.

That’s no man.

Behind the back row of seats, a giant vampire stands next to a red-haired woman.

“Apologies for the… interruption.” The male’s voice resonates through the air as he looks directly at me. “We would like a moment of your time. If you’ll allow it.”

I permit myself a moment to accept that this is really happening. And another moment to convince myself I am not afraid.

Then I nod once. “I reserve the right to ask you to leave, but… I’ll allow it.”

“Gracias.” The vampire dips his head, his horns gleaming even under the low lights.

Then, holding the woman’s hand, he strides down the aisle.