Nocturne

by Karina Halle

“This city eats dreams for breakfast. Elizabeth wouldn’t be the first girl who got devoured.”

I am a predator walking among prey, a creature of night and blood and hunger. A vampire.

All these years thinking I was broken in some fundamental way, when really, I was simply different by design. I can’t help but stare at Lena, my heart pressing against my ribs. And when she stepped into my life with her secrets and wanton smile, it’s as if finally belonged somewhere. With her.

He pulls me closer, his embrace both protective and seeking protection. We lie together in the quiet darkness, two young predators finding unexpected solace in each other’s arms.

“Blood isn’t destiny, Victor. It’s just blood. Your choices define you, not your heritage.

“Whatever happens next,” I tell him, “we face it together. I’m not leaving you to battle this alone.” He stares at me, wonder breaking through the despair. “How can you still look at me like that? After what I just told you? After what I just did to you?” “Because I know the man beneath the monster,” I say simply. “And that man is worth fighting for.”