Page 163 of Volik

I try to swallow. “Then wh-what did you come here for?”

Something presses against me. An invisible force.

Is that him? Is that what his power feels like?

Jealousy cracks through my fear.

I want that.

“I came for you.”

Fear smothers all other emotions.

This ancient vampire came here for me.

“Wh-why?”

Is this a recruitment?

That pressure in the air increases, and the free weights start to rattle in their rack.

This feels… bad.

I slide my foot back.

Volik takes a step forward. “Tibi dolet, Mea Unica. Oportet te mori.”

Every hair on my body lifts. “What does that mean?” My question comes out weak.

“It means.” The vampire shifts his stance, making him appear even larger. “You hurt, My Only. You must die.”

Terror blazes through me.

I swing my arm and throw the dumbbell at Volik.

It bounces off… nothing and drops to the floor.

I turn and run for the door.

But my leg catches on… nothing, and I slam onto the concrete.

“Get up.”

I squeeze my eyes shut.

This isn’t happening. This isn’t happening.

“Get. Up.” Volik’s voice shakes the garage.

My sweaty palms slip against the concrete as I push myself up.

“Look at me.”

The music is still playing quietly from my headphones, and I wish it was louder. I wish it was my old speaker system. Then I wouldn’t have to hear myself whimper as I turn to face the vampire.

I lift my hands, surrendering. “I-I’m s-sorry.”

“Nyet. Not yet.”