"Go," she whispered.

"Sadie --"

"You . . . need . . . fluids," the vampire replied, her eyes meeting his. They weren't quite angry, but rather projected a profound sense of disappointment in herself. "The EMTs will actually have what you need." She slowly made her way to her feet, refusing her fellow officer's offer of assistance. "Please?"

Vlad knew she probably shouldn't be alone, but she was a proud woman who needed to collect herself. Looking her over, the bleeding had stopped and she looked physically much better than when they'd caught up with her. "Give me your keys," he said. When she looked at him like he...