By the time evening fell, Nicole was done with the city. She needed the silence that only her sanctuary could provide. She climbed into the back of the SUV, her silence so heavy that even Freddi seemed to drive with extra caution. They left the paved streets of Uptown behind, heading deep into the wooded outskirts where the trees grew thick.
This was Nicole's lair, a sprawling architectural marvel of dark wood, glass, and natural stone. It was the only house for miles, surrounded by ancient trees that gave her the privacy her nature demanded. As the car pulled into the long driveway, Nicole's body went rigid. Her nostrils flared, catching a scent that was sharp and dangerously familiar.
"Freddi, stop the car," Nicole commanded, her voice dropping to a growl. "There is a presence in the house."
Freddi looked back at her with a calm, knowing smile. "I would not worry, Nicole. I know who is in there. I picked her up from the airfield myself."
Nicole stepped out and stormed into the house. Standing in the center of the living room was Alex, her mother. The Vampire Queen looked as regal as ever, but her eyes were sharp with worry.
"You look pale, Nicole," Alex said, her voice like silk. "Have you not been feeding? You look like you are starving yourself."
"I am fine, Mother," Nicole snapped. "Why are you here? And since when did you need picking up?"
"Your father has gone into hiding again," Alex said, stepping closer. "Your uncle is moving to ascend the throne. He wants the crown, Nicole. You need to hurry. You need a mate to transform into your true power, or you will not be able to stop him. I don't even know who to trust; even some of my own people are working with him. I couldn't travel through the portal."
Nicole groaned, pacing the room. "Not you too. Luna is already hounding me about a mate."
Alex turned her gaze to Freddi, who had entered with Nicole's bags. "Freddi, why is she so thin? Are you not providing for her?"
"I try, my Queen," Freddi said, bowing his head. "But Nicole refuses to eat directly from a human source. She insists on the hospital supplies, and lately, it has been hard to get Blood Group O. My sources are running dry."
Nicole ignored them both, her mind drifting back to the girl in the silver dress. She was a mixed-blood in a world that was closing in on her, and for some reason, the only thing that felt like it could save her was the one person she was supposed to stay away from.