Brighter Outlook On Life

"No," Aiden said. "I can't be married."

"Why not?" Lucien released Aiden's hand from his grip. "Prior to your death, you must have a family. Maybe you had just married your sweetheart."

Lucien pulled his lips into a thin line.

What an unfortunate young man, he thought as he stared at the newborn vampire in front of him. He died prematurely, leaving his loved ones behind.

"Do you want to search for your living family members?" Lucien offered out of pity. "I can find out about you and your family, if you want."

Aiden rubbed his thumb against the yellow diamond on his ring and considered the offer for some time.

"No," he then replied decisively. "I am a monster now. If they are still around, I don't want to scare them."

Lucien patted Aiden on the back and smiled at him.