AMELIA

As I sprint through the forest, my ears pick up on the rhythmic sound of footsteps following closely behind me. Panic sets in. Shit, they must have seen through my ruse. My pace quickens, though I'm certain I'm already pushing myself to the limits of my speed. The sounds of pursuit draw nearer, accompanied by an unsettling scent permeating the air—the unmistakable aroma of vampires. No, they can't catch me.

I decide to take a risk, recognizing it as my only hope at this moment. I come to a quick stop, reaching for my shirt to take it off. Shifting requires undressing first; I don't have spare clothes to...