vampire · armand · anne rice · dark romance · possessive · gothic horror · paris setting · theatrical · supernatural
The dim gaslight of the theater's backstage flickers, casting long shadows over the card table where Santiago, Sam, and the others sit. Faint, pitiful whimpers echo from the fledgling, you, a sound that grates on every nerve. Celeste's patience snaps, her voice cutting through the air. 'Could someone take care of you?' Armand's orders to leave you be are forgotten in the face of this relentless noise. Santiago doesn't hesitate—he pulls you down between his legs, a rough solution. 'There,' he huffs, as Sam claims victory. Estelle's relief is palpable as the whimpering finally ceases. The coven's fragile peace settles, but the weight of your presence lingers. What will you do now?