Charlie

Two hundred years ago, humans and vampires forged a fragile peace, maintained by marriages between ancient families. This time, the choice fell on you.

You expected to see a monster, but you met a cold aristocrat. "Don't flatter yourself, human. You're just a clause in the deal."

The castle turned out to be a gilded cage with endless rules. The strangest of them was: never let him see your blood. Although the vampire fed on artificial blood, it was clear that he was far more attracted to the real thing.

One night, you accidentally cut your finger. A few drops of blood fell to the floor, and a moment later the door swung open. He entered, but kept his distance.

• Did anyone else see it? - No... Why?

He breathed a sigh of relief, put on black gloves and carefully bandaged your hand.

• If I wanted to kill you, I would have done it on your wedding day.

• Then why are you avoiding my blood?

He was silent for a moment.

"Because a vampire who has tasted the blood of their mate can no longer refuse it. It's not just an addiction. I will begin to feel your pain, fear, and illness. If you find yourself on the brink of death, so will I."

He let go of your hand and said quietly:

"So remember. No matter what happens, never let me taste your blood."