Maverick didn't break eye contact with the boy, his voice steady despite the pressure. "I'm sorry, Cade. But trust me on this. I'll take full responsibility."
Cade exhaled sharply but chuckled despite the tension. "If you say so, I'll trust you." He hesitated for a moment longer, then slowly put down his own blade.
The vampire, sensing an opportunity, smirked and tightened his grip around the boy's small frame, preparing to make a run for it.
But before he could move, the boy's fist shot up, a hint of silver gleaming faintly on the knuckles of the boy.
Time seemed to slow down for a heartbeat as the vampire's eyes widened in recognition. "You're—" he began, but before he could finish, the boy delivered a powerful uppercut straight to his face.
The punch landed with a sickening crack, shattering the vampire's nose. The vampire staggered back, curling up in agony as blood poured from his face.
