The neon lights of the club flickered against the midnight sky, casting eerie shadows across the sidewalk. Ere'ana adjusted the deep crimson dress that clung to her curves, the satin fabric catching the light and drawing every gaze in her direction. She walked with purpose, her heels clicking on the pavement like a countdown to something inevitable. At two centuries old, she had perfected this hunt to an art form, and tonight would be no different.
Inside, the music pulsed through the air like a living entity, drowning out the muffled chatter of patrons. Ere'ana's sharp eyes scanned the crowd. Men and women alike turned to look at her, captivated by the dangerous beauty that exuded from her every step. She smiled—a sultry, knowing smile that promised indulgence. Her target tonight was seated at the bar, a young man with messy black hair and a shy demeanor. Perfect.
She approached him, letting her fingertips trail along the bar as she took the seat beside him. "Mind if I join you?" Her voice was smooth as silk, carrying a hint of mischief.
The man looked up, his face flushing. "Uh, no, not at all," he stammered, his eyes darting nervously between her face and her exposed collarbone.
"What's your name?" she asked, leaning closer so he could catch the faintest scent of her perfume.
"Ryan," he answered, his voice trembling slightly.
"Ryan." She tested his name on her tongue, letting it roll off as though it was her favorite word. "You don't seem like the usual crowd here."
"Not really," he admitted, fidgeting with the edge of his drink. "I'm here because my friends dragged me out. Guess it's not really my scene."
Ere'ana chuckled, the sound low and inviting. "It's not mine either, but here I am. Maybe it was fate." She let her hand rest on his for just a moment, her cold touch going unnoticed in the haze of alcohol and her intoxicating presence.
It didn't take long before Ryan was following her out of the club, his heart racing with anticipation. The promise of the night burned brightly in his eyes, but Ere'ana's hunger burned brighter. She led him down the dimly lit streets, her heels now silent against the cracked pavement.
"You're gorgeous," he said, his voice slightly slurred as the alcohol made him bolder.
"And you're sweet," she replied, flashing him another seductive smile. "We're almost there."
Her apartment was nothing more than a façade, a sterile space designed solely for this purpose. She pushed the door open and let him in, locking it behind them.
Ryan barely had a chance to look around before Ere'ana was on him, her lips brushing his in a kiss that stole his breath. He melted under her touch, completely unaware of the predator behind her piercing gaze.
"Relax," she whispered against his ear as her fingers trailed down his chest. "Let me take care of you."
As she leaned closer, her lips brushed against his neck. He shivered, thinking it was anticipation, but he was wrong. Her fangs pierced his skin in one fluid motion, silencing his gasp. The warm rush of blood filled her mouth, and she drank deeply, savoring every drop.
Ryan's struggles weakened as his lifeblood drained away. Ere'ana held him close, her strength far greater than his, until his body went limp. When it was over, she let him drop to the floor unceremoniously, her crimson lips curling into a satisfied smirk.
Another night, another victim. Her hunger was sated, for now.
the End of Chapter One