If I Go

[The Present.]

"I didn't agree with that irritable vampire's tactics, but it was the best decision at that time," Lupinum concluded the story, leaning back in his seat and watched as the little lady trembled at the revelation. "You could say that the sight of you being attacked was the reason your grandfather's blood pressure rose high enough for a heart attack, or—"

"My grandmother made me pay for his death all my life," Ophelia interrupted, glancing at her fingertips. "I never knew… I-I truly was the cause of his death."

"Don't gaslight my wife in front of me," Killorn warned, sliding a protective arm around her dainty shoulders and pulling her closer. "The old Lord Eves was already rumored to have multiple heart issues. His death was his fault."