*Julian*

Xamara and I sit across from each other at the breakfast table, and I can’t take my eyes off her. I’m mesmerized by the way her dark hair curls around her face, the radiance of her pale skin, the brilliant blue of her eyes, and the pout of her ruby red lips.

“This food is excellent,” she says, her tone genuine. “And your home is magnificent. Thank you again for your hospitality.” She sets her fork down, meeting my eyes. “I should tell you, though, I won’t be staying here any longer. I need to find my friends so we can track the Nightborn, and eventually….” She hesitates for...