In the classroom, I watched Annie, knowing our friendship had come full circle. In her eyes, I could still see my good friend Acantha from long ago.

Annie’s eyebrows drew together in concern. “What’s wrong?” she asked in a low voice so as not to attract attention, but we could still hear the teacher if needed. Vamps could pay attention to many things at once.

And as I looked in her eyes, I knew our friendship was still intact. “Nothing,” I replied with a half smile. “Just thinking of the old days.”

Annie reached across the table and gently squeezed my hand. “Don’t think about it.” Then, she smiled her...