PROLOGUE

I couldn't stop biting my lip, staring at my phone, waiting for a response. Three hours had passed since my last message—still nothing.

What am I doing, exactly? Trying to secure a supply for the month. But not the usual kind. What I need is blood.

Yes, blood. My new reality.

Any type will do—no difference in taste. But human? Yes, ideal. Will animal blood suffice? Sure, in a pinch.

Why do I need blood?

It's been five months since that night. Unfortunate, maybe, but it brought unexpected "gifts." I can't recall the details, only the icy feeling on my neck as someone—or something—bit me.

They left a mark—a vampire's bite.

How do I know? Simple—I woke up, changed.

My senses sharpened. Vision cleared, like I'd been given perfect eyesight. Strength surged; two gallons of water felt like nothing. My hair darkened to jet black, my skin paled, and fangs as sharp as a knife emerged. Even my eyes, once dark brown, lightened to hazel and turned red under the full moon's influence.

Controlling these changes was a two-month nightmare. The hunger, strength, heightened senses—everything was overwhelming. I left my job, isolating myself in the mountains to learn how to hide what I'd become. After two months, I ventured to a remote town, testing if I could pass among people.

I couldn't risk being exposed. Who knows what people would do if they discovered what I am?

Two weeks ago, I moved to a new city after hearing rumors of an illegal blood dealer. Returning home was out of the question. Now, here I am, hoping for a reply, knowing my current supply won't last.

Oh, and sunlight? Doesn't burn me, but it saps my energy. Five hours in the sun, and I'm drained, needing to retreat before I collapse. And though I can still eat normal food, it's only for taste—blood keeps the hunger at bay.

Ding!

The sound felt like a blaring alarm in my hypersensitive ears, even with my phone on low volume. But I muted other noises long ago.

The blood dealer finally replied, sharing a pick-up location and payment details.

A grin spread across my face. One problem down.

Now, time to face the next challenge in my new life.