Forty-eight

I waited until Lydia and the children were busy eating and talking, and then I excused myself. I said I needed to use the restroom, and I grabbed my bag. I walked out of the restaurant, quickly, hoping no one would notice me.

I needed to find blood, and fast. I was starving, and the smell of food only made it worse. Bloodlust was going to be activate in one hour. I could feel it in my veins, like a ticking bomb. I had to feed, or I would lose control.

I walked along the streets of the small town, looking for a place where I could satisfy my thirst. The town was quaint and charming, with colorful houses, flower gardens, and cobblestone paths.