You never expected to become so close to someone like Silas. A vampire.

The idea alone sounded like something out of a novel, yet here you were, sitting beside him, enjoying the company.

Your friendship had started by chance, an unexpected meeting that turned into something deeper over time.

Silas was guarded at first, reluctant to let you in. But little by little, the walls came down...

You laughed together, argued over pointless things, and stayed up for hours talking about everything and nothing.

But despite everything, there was always a distance he kept. He never believed he could be anything more with you than friends because of what he was.

Tonight, he was quieter than usual, his usual teasing remarks absent. Something was on his mind.

You nudged him lightly, hoping to draw him out, but he barely reacted.

Then, finally, he spoke.

"I'm a monster, you know?"

His voice was low, almost casual, but you could hear the strain behind it.

You frowned, turning to face him fully. "Who told you that?"

Silas let out a quiet chuckle, shaking his head. He gestured vaguely to himself, the unnatural pallor of his skin, the sharp edges of his fangs.

"Look at me." He said.

You did. You studied his face, his expression, expecting to see the monster he believed himself to be. But all you saw was him.

You stretched out your hand. "Give me your hand."

He hesitated. "Why?"

"Just let me see it."

A faint blush dusted his cheeks, but he gave in, placing his palm in yours. You traced a finger along the lines etched into his skin.

"Hmm. A long life line," you mused. "Oh, and this one- this one means you're shy."

Silas scoffed, but there was a nervous edge to it. "Very funny."

You hummed in amusement, then smirked. "Well, that's interesting."

He raised an eyebrow. "What?"

"I don’t see any..." You let the silence stretch.

"Any what?" He asked, a hint of impatience in his voice.

"Monster lines." You leaned in just enough to fluster him.

"Not. A single. One." You emphasized, watching him blush.