WE GOT YOUR BACK

Adrianna rushed down the dimly lit corridor, her thoughts racing. Alaric's study had been empty, it's cold silence a stark contrast to the tumultuous emotions brewing within her. She needed answers, and for that, she needed Alaric. But as she turned a corner, she collided with someone, nearly losing her balance.

"Whoa there!" the man said, steadying her with a firm grip. Adrianna looked up, startled, to see a man with sharp features and an easy, disarming smile.

"Hey, Adrianna! Do you remember me?" he asked, his tone casual and friendly.

She blinked at him, puzzled. "I… I'm sorry, but I don't know you. Are you a vampire too?" Her voice carried a mix of curiosity and unease as she took a small step back.

The man chuckled, a sound both light and self-assured. "I'm James," he said, placing a hand on his chest dramatically. "Alaric's partner in crime when it comes to saving damsels in distress—like you, for instance."