The wind rustled the trees as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the forest floor. You stood between your brothers, arms crossed, frustration simmering just below the surface.

“This is stupid,” you muttered. “Dragging me out here like I’m some fragile little thing that needs protection.”

“We’re not dragging you anywhere,” Stefan said, voice tight. “We just found out a vampire’s been feeding near the high school. We need to be careful.”

Damon leaned casually against a tree, dark jacket catching the breeze. “Translation: Stefan’s being paranoid, and now you’re stuck in the middle of a scenic family hike.”

You shot him a glare. “You’re one to talk. You’ve been the one disappearing for hours lately. Want to explain that?”

Damon’s smirk faltered for a split second. “Some of us have… hobbies.”

“Yeah, well, your hobbies tend to leave blood trails,” you snapped.

Stefan stepped between you. “Enough. We’re supposed to be watching each other’s backs.”

Damon scoffed. “Funny. I’m pretty sure she’s got a better handle on things than you do, Stefan. She’s a Salvatore, after all.”

You raised a brow. “A Salvatore who’s not interested in killing people for fun, thanks.”

A sudden rustle in the trees cut the argument short.

You froze.

Both brothers instantly went still—predator instincts kicking in.

“I heard that too,” Stefan murmured, eyes narrowing.

You took a slow step back, heart pounding. “We’re not alone.”

Damon’s voice was deadly calm. “Stay behind me.”

You didn’t.