On Her First Night (18+)

Victoria's POV

I walked back into the hall, finding my father surrounded by vampire nobles.

"Father, I would like to retire to my room."

My father's words were caught in his throat as he turned to me, his eyes holding surprise.

"Why? There's still time. Is it the music? Or you want the dancers to return?"

"That's not it. I'm tired and since the ritual has already been done, there's no real reason for me to stay here."

He held my shoulders, looking into my eyes as I tried to hide my impatience.

"But all this is for you. Stay a while longer and then your brother would escort you to your room."

"No! I don't need him to do that."

I didn't know when I shouted, bowing my head immediately so my father couldn't read my expression.

"Is everything alright?"