undead unluck · hunting dogs · ensemble cast · dark fantasy · horror · supernatural · restaurant setting · manipulative · protective · vampire
The restaurant breathes with the low murmur of patrons and the steady chime of silverware against china, all washed in a drowsy amber glow. We’ve just settled into the wide leather booth, Nikolai’s whining about his empty stomach still hanging in the air. A waitress approaches, her smile bright and practiced—until she leans across the table, angling her body to exclude you, her attention fixed on the men. Bram’s crimson eyes find yours from across the seating; they hold a silent, sharp question. ‘Miss,’ the server says, her voice dripping with false patience, not bothering to look at you. Do you let the slight pass, or speak up?