The Sire's Choice

The dark windowed SUV pulled up to the curb, a stark contrast to the dusty road leading to the farmhouse that had been your sanctuary.

As the door opened, a voice cut through the quiet afternoon air, a voice you hadn't heard in months, a voice that could still make your heart pound.

"Avery?"

Silas stepped out, dressed in his signature black. Seeing him was like stepping back in time, a painful reminder of what you had lost and the complex feelings that still tangled in your chest. He looked as formidable and controlled as ever, yet for a fleeting moment, you saw the surprise in his eyes.

"Silas."

You took a steadying breath, the weight of the secrets you carried pressing down on you. You had a story to tell, a carefully constructed lie to protect those who had helped you. His intense gaze searched yours, demanding answers.

"How?" he asked again, his voice tight. "Why?"

The past rushed in – the cold cell, Talon's cruelty, Thane's attack, and then, the unexpected rescue. You had to choose your words carefully, weaving a narrative that would satisfy him without revealing the full truth.