The classroom was silent except for the frantic sound of Liam's breathing. His fangs were still out, glistening faintly in the overhead light, his lips stained with Adrian's blood. His hands shook where they clenched at his sides. He wanted to speak, to explain, to deny—but nothing came out.
Harper stood frozen in the doorway, his eyes wide, expression a mix of shock and fear. He had seen Liam fight monsters, had seen him bleed, had seen him heal—but never this. Never Liam losing control, never Liam drinking from someone as if it were instinct rather than choice.
And Adrian… Adrian was smiling.
He cradled his wounded wrist like a trophy, head tilted, golden hair slipping loose from its tie. His lips were parted slightly, his chest rising fast, but he looked more exhilarated than harmed. His green eyes shimmered with something dangerous, something triumphant.
