Elena gave Garrett a brief nod. He chose to stand rather than sit, feeling restless and unwell. He couldn't shake off the unease, fully aware that his mate was soon going on a food strike.
The expression in Elena's eyes did nothing to calm his nerves; it mirrored the same blank look he often wore himself.
Cutting to the chase, Garrett addressed Elena, eager to get on with the day's business and avoid postponing what was inevitable. "So, what's the plan?"
Lila rose from her seat and made her way to the kitchen. After a few minutes, she returned, holding a bowl in her hands. Passing it to Elena, she spoke to Emily. "You will drink this concoction," Elena informed her. Then, turning to Garrett, Elena added, "I need your blood."
Garrett was taken aback. "What?" He hadn't anticipated this twist. "Does it have to be added to that?" He pointed at the bowl in Elena's hands.
Elena nodded, confirming his suspicions. Emily furrowed her brow, realizing that she would have to consume a mixture of
