Chapter 22

There was no tie, though. The throat would be open, baring my birthmark.

I showered, shaved, and dressed, and then went back downstairs. My father stood there, trying to smile.

“You look good, son.”

“Thanks, Dad.” I held my arms out from my sides and turned around. “I don’t recognize these.”

“The clothes are from the vampyre.”

“How did he know my size?”

“They have ways of knowing things.”

I thought of Adam, who’d somehow known I was going to run away that night when Dad had first told me about sabors. I’d often thought of him as the day—night—when I’d be claimed for the first time came closer. He’d hoped to be my first vampyre. Would he, or would it be a strange vampyre?

“Ty…” Dad looked so pale I was afraid he was going to pass out. He pulled me into a hug, and I shuddered.

“It will be fine, Dad.” I fought back tears and let him hold onto me.

His grip eased, and he kissed my cheek. “He’s…he’s waiting outside.”

He? I licked my lips. “Are you okay with that, Dad?”