I met Alice as I ventured out for my customary nocturnal pursuit. Perhaps the sight of Willow will cast magic and eliminate the day’s uneasiness.

"You are looking fetching," I remarked with admiration. It seemed that mortal lads would willingly volunteer their blood just to be in proximity to her rose-petal skin.

Alice was a slender lass with a medium-length, multi-coloured bob cut featuring shades of jade green and red. Her eyes, characteristic of vampires, displayed a striking yellow-orange hue with a defined black outline. She favoured revealing attire, often opting for one-piece ensembles paired with dark stockings. On this particular evening, she donned a captivating silver and black dress, meticulously adorned with hand-beaded glass beads, sequins, and intricate embroidery, featuring several layers that exuded an undeniable allure. It was impossible not to be captivated by her presence.

“What’s the occasion?” I asked her.

“After today’s drama, I need to unwind,” she replied.

“Do not remind me. She died because of me.”

“Xavier killed her.”

“Because he thought I needed help,” I complained.

“But you needed help.” Alice declared.

I glared. “You and Xavier are good for each other.”

“I saw it, Eden. Fear in your eyes. If Xavier did not act, I would. Would you have hated me then?”

I instinctively recoiled. The mere contemplation of it was enough to induce a profound sense of unease within me. Our bond burgeoned during my most vulnerable state. Alice became a presence in my life precisely when Xavier believed my restoration from the aftermath of my deeds was beyond reach. If anything, I owed her.

“I could never hate you.”

Lifting her hand, Alice stroked my cheek. “We take care of each other. Xavier is family, even if you refuse to acknowledge him.”

“You are persistent.” I sighed in defeat. “I can’t handle two determined persons. It’s exhausting.”

She smiled. “Tonight, we are going into town.”

A tight frown creased my forehead. “Who are we?”

“Xavier and I.” Alice touched my cheek again. “Why don’t you come with us?”

“No.” I stepped out of her touch.

“Don’t take it personally, Alice.” A voice travelled towards us. “Eden has better things to do. She does not drink with us. She barely talks to us. Do not waste your time. Instead, why don’t you and I go out tonight?”

“Who is he?” Alice comical expression nearly made me laugh.

“He is Finn.” I glared in his direction.

“How about it, Alice?” Finn took the last step down. “Shall we go out together?”

Recalling Tobias's assertion about loyalty, I found Finn's unwavering devotion noteworthy. Since we were creatures allied by blood, I did not have to like him.

“You are welcome to join us, Finn,” Alice informed him, then turned to face me. “You as well, Eden.”

Despite my preference to spend leisure time apart from Xavier and Finn, I made the decision to abstain from argument. It became apparent that Alice was unwavering in her determination to ensure that Xavier and I addressed our existing concerns.

Upon our arrival at the destination, we settled outside a charming village street-side shop. I observed Alice and Finn engrossed in a spirited game of Ludo. The quaint ambiance and the lively energy of the game created an enchanting tableau.

“You don’t want to play?” Alice asked. “It’s not too late to join.”

"I am no good," I muttered, my face contorting into a forced smile. Xavier glanced at me, recognising the falsehood in my words.

I sucked in a deep breath and brought the Dragon Stout bottle to my mouth.

“We should visit the show-room sometime,” Alice suggested. “Can’t recall the last time I saw a movie.”

“You will be disappointed,” I remarked. “Honestly, it paled in comparison to the city’s big screen.”

I have an equal passion for movies and basketball. Both offer unique forms of entertainment. The art of storytelling in movies captivated me, while the dynamic athleticism and strategy of basketball never fail to impress. Living in a village, however, does not offer access to a wide selection of high-quality movies. Quite tragic, really.

“If it’s entertainment you seek,” I said to Alice. “How about doing something you never did before?” I recommended.

“Like what?”

“Skating?” I suggested because I knew Xavier would love to teach Alice.

Xavier's passion for skating was not just a hobby; it was his therapy. Once we became close, he introduced me to the abandoned lot where he spent countless hours skating. I understood right away the profound connection he had with it. Both he and the lot were disregarded by those who could not see their value. It was in such space that Xavier found solace and freedom, and I could not help but see the beauty in that. Just like the lot, Xavier deserved a chance to shine and be appreciated for the unique value he brings. That was what I thought when I was human.

“When I was human, skating seemed far out of reach. I had no balance.” Alice chuckled. “As a vampire, I will be grateful.”

“And the most beautiful," Xavier added, a small smile tugged at his lips. His words were delivered with a sense of refined appreciation.

I exhaled softly and rolled my eyes, seeing his predictable fondness for Alice. It was clear that he could not conceal his admiration, even if he made an effort to do so.

Alice offered Xavier a tender smile.

“How long have you known each other?” Finn questioned.

“Since we were human.” Alice drank from her red wine.

Alice's assertion was inaccurate. Our encounter took place in Cindra couple months after my transformation.

“The three of you became vampires together. Strange.” Finn scowled.

“The world is full of strange occurrence,” Xavier remarked, his intense gaze fixed on Finn, daring him to pose any further inquiries about us.

"Easy, boy," Alice said as she patted Xavier's shoulder, a gesture that elicited a chuckle from me. It reminded me of comforting one's pet dog.