Eric walked into Merlotte's, his mind preoccupied with Sookie and the reason behind her sudden avoidance. However, his attention was swiftly diverted to a captivating woman sitting at the bar, her dark hair a striking contrast to the dim lighting. She wore a fitted black dress that accentuated her curves, and Eric's eyes lingered on her as he made his way through the crowded room. The air was thick with the smell of stale cigarette smoke and the cacophony of clinking glasses and boisterous conversations didn't deter him from approaching the mysterious woman.

As he introduced himself, Eric instinctively bared his fangs before retracting them, his primal instincts stirring at the sight of her. The pulsing vein in her neck beckoned to him, but he suppressed his hunger, opting to order her a drink instead. He savored the moment, drinking in her beauty as he awaited her response. A subtle smile spread across his face when she accepted, and he took a step closer, his senses heightened as he inhaled her unique scent. The hairs on his neck stood on end, and a growing desire compelled him to get to know her better. "How about we get to know each other better?" he suggested, a sly smile spreading across his lips.