Page 34 of Monster in the Moonlight

Perhaps the difference between now and then is my conscience.

This is the first time I’m collecting on a bargain with a conscience in tow.

What a nuisance. A curse, really.

I’d give anything to be like I once was—utterly cold-hearted. I used to be so consumed by my own misery, the only way for me to feel anything was to make others join me in the dark place where I existed.

I was a force to be reckoned with. Untouchable. No compassion whatsoever.

Then I made a grievous error that changed me forever. I became so desperate to be free of the hold my overlord has on me, I made a reckless mistake—I kidnapped the wrong person.

A little over two decades ago, I captured a princess for ransom, and I thought the reward might be big enough for Vaeront to set me free.

It backfired.

Not only was Vaeront enraged with me for defying him, but my altercation with the princess was terribly detrimental to my entire being.

See, I had no idea she was a powerful Empath, and her best defense was using my own evil against me. Or rather, the absence of said evil. She removed it from me completely, leaving an empty space that quickly filled with the deepest regret.

And now remorse is my constant unwanted companion.

Hannah’s confidence is faltering because of my inaction. Her eyes are downcast, her face is dejected, and I can tell she’s going to sit back down as she gropes behind her for the arm of her chair.

Stepping in close, I stop her by placing a hand on her waist. “I don’t want to hurt you, Hannah.”

There’s never been a truer statement, though my desires don’t change anything. What I want or don’t want is irrelevant.

If I could truly have it my way, I’d end my life.

While Hannah dreads death, I yearn for it, and I’d joyfully trade fates with her.

“Lighten up,” she responds with a playful smile. “It’s just a kiss.”

So she thinks, but she doesn’t know what’s going on inside me.

I…wantto kiss her.

I can’t even remember the last time I fucked a woman, let alone kissed one, but I can’t ever recall being this overwhelmed with the need to be near someone.

In my long, tiring existence, I’ve never lusted to this degree.

I’ve been battling erections all day.

Dancing with Hannah was torture, and now the thought of tasting her lips?

My blackened heart is thundering, my stomach is flipping, and my cock has stiffened inside my pants.

There’s a tingling where my palm and fingers are splayed out on Hannah’s side, and my lungs are burning as if I can’t get enough air.

What the strike is going on?

I don’t even need to breathe to live, so the pressure in my chest is disturbing.

And my fangs, which are covered by inconspicuous caps, are throbbing with thirst.

It’s not time to drink her blood yet, but with this craving, I might lose control and bite her if I’m not careful.

Despite knowing it’s a bad idea, I find myself bending down.

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