Marissa wasn't moving, nor was she speaking. Her gaze remained fixed on Luke, her lips slightly parted as she exhaled softly, almost in a trance. A faint blush spread across her cheeks, creeping down to her neck.
"What's going on? This feels a bit strange…" Luke's brow furrowed.
Just as he opened his mouth to call for Zoe, he felt a gentle tug on his hand. He glanced down to see Marissa's small, jade-like fingers entwining with his own.
"What the…" Luke trailed off, confused.
Her eyes grew hazy, and her breathing quickened. A crimson flush spread over her pale, delicate face. Luke's mind flashed back to a memory—something he had once read in a novel: the first time someone takes a concoction infused with unique bloodlines or essence, unexpected side effects might occur.
"This… this can't be happening!" Luke's eyes widened in realization.
