Page 112 of Eternal Craving

Glancing at Benjamin again, I questioned the sanity of turning anyone, especially if his sister had his annoying traits. The thought of Benjamin hanging around caused me to cringe. The old ways certainly encouraged the survival instinct to take over. It was better to respect my elders and do as they did. My guilt lifted.

Thank fuck for that.

Until now, I’d not wanted to turn anyone. I still needed time to come to terms with my own transformation, though if neitherof us helped his sister soon by doing the dark deed, she would die. In my hands, I held the key to eternal life. If I went through with it, she’d be my first. And likely my last.

No time for such indulgence or unselfish acts of kindness, which Sunaria would never approve. The walls were closing in and I badly wanted out of here. A sense of relief came as my preternatural inner rhythm hinted that day had faded.

Benjamin squinted my way. “How do I know you aren’t tricking me?”

Because in half an hour, I’ll be gone.

Rachel stirred.

“If you don’t help her, she’ll die,” he whispered.

I gave him a sympathetic smile, and my gaze roamed the chamber.

“Please help us.” Benjamin shifted closer.

“How do you want me to help you?”

“To understand.”

I slid off the coffin.

“These cravings,” he murmured.

Soon, I’d be outside and the night air would be cool. Even though an unpleasant city aroma would greet me, I’d welcome it. Thoughts of relief came with the idea that soon this place would be an annoying memory.

His stare was vacant now. “I’m so hungry.”

I reached into my pocket. “Here.” I offered him several coins.

“What’s that for?”

“Get your sister to a doctor.” As I handed over the money, it dawned on me that if a physician examined either of them, a stake through the heart may be the treatment of choice.

“My thirst is driving me to do terrible things,” he confessed.

“You must learn to control it.”

Benjamin fell to his knees. “I’m craving rats.”

“Think of something else.”

“Like what?”

“Your future.”

“See, you can help me, you know what ails us.” Benjamin threw himself at my feet and wrapped his arms around my legs.

I regained my balance.

“I’m so afraid,” he sobbed.

“Please let go.” I pushed him away. “Just stay clear of daylight.”

“Don’t leave us like this.”