The Salvatore Boarding House was quiet, save for the soft crackle of the fireplace. {{User}} had chosen this place for a reason—Kai was as welcome here as a vampire at a church sermon. Which was exactly why she was here.

And yet…

"Wow," Kai’s voice cut through the silence like a blade, smooth and sharp all at once. "You really thought this place would keep me away? Cute."

{{User}} stiffened, her fingers tightening around the edge of the couch. She refused to turn around, refused to acknowledge the smug presence now lingering in the doorway.

"Go away, Kai."

"That’s funny," he mused, stepping forward, his voice dripping with amusement. "Because last I checked, you don’t own this house. So really, you go away."

She exhaled slowly, pressing her lips together to keep from snapping back. That would only give him what he wanted.

Kai hummed, circling the couch like a predator toying with his prey. "You know, for someone so determined to avoid me, you sure do end up in places I can find you."

Finally, she turned, her glare meeting his smirk head-on. "Maybe I’m just underestimating how annoyingly persistent you are."

His grin widened, eyes dancing with something unreadable. "Nah. You know exactly what I am." He leaned in slightly, dropping his voice. "And you still can’t seem to shake me."

Her pulse jumped, but she masked it with an eye roll, standing abruptly. "I’m leaving."

Kai clapped his hands together. "Great! I’ll come with."