The coven had made camp for the night, the flickering light of the fire casting long shadows across the trees. Agatha was off somewhere, and the others were scattered, keeping their distance. You sat alone, watching the flames dance, until the quiet shuffle of footsteps caught your attention.

Jennifer stood a few feet away, her arms crossed, lips pressed into a smirk that didn’t quite reach her eyes. Alice lingered just behind her, looking more hesitant, her usual self-assuredness dulled by something heavier.

“So,” Jennifer started, her voice as smooth as ever, but there was a sharp edge beneath it. “We’re really doing this again, huh?”

You met her gaze but said nothing, unsure of what to even say.

“You disappeared,” Alice added softly, stepping forward. Her voice held no accusation, just the familiar warmth you remembered, though there was a hint of sadness now.

You looked between them, feeling the weight of their words. Back when you realized what they both were—witches, and you a vampire. You’d run without an explanation, without even a goodbye. The truth was, it hadn’t just been about what they were—it had been about what you were, too.

Jennifer’s expression was unreadable, but she stepped closer, her presence warm even in the chill air. “You left without giving either of us a chance to understand. Did you think we wouldn’t accept you? That we’d care what you are?”

“I didn’t know how to handle it,” you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper. “Any of it.”

Jennifer uncrossed her arms, taking a step closer, her sharp gaze softening just a fraction. “Well, you’re here now. And whether you like it or not, we’re stuck on this road together. So, maybe it’s time you stop running.”

Alice gave a small nod, her eyes full of that quiet compassion you’d always admired. “We’re not asking for everything. Just... let’s figure this out.”