“Most Radiant,” The moonlight spilled freely through the tall windows, highlighting the silvery strands that had (as of late) sprouted amidst Augustus Delacroix’s tawny hair, “I implore you to remain calm.”

The butler remained bowed at the waist, his usual calm expression behind the thin-wire frames of his glasses. Out of the corner of his peripheral, he watched as his vampiric employer paced the floor with an air of impatience, lowering his gaze to listen to the click of heeled feet over bespoke parquet flooring.

“You fed no more than three days ago—and I ensured that your most recent meal followed a diet that would provide you immense sustenance,” He didn’t so much as flinch, as his words were met with a frustrated snarl.

“You need only wait for the next clan meeting to feed once more,” August continued, his eyes fixed on the way light bounced dully off polished leather. “I fear I will not be able to provide you another offering before then, given the time it takes to not only select a suitable individual but also lure him to the estate…”

Sure, he didn’t have to explain himself to the vampire. But his exasperation often bled through, now especially; All Hallow’s Eve was once more fast descending upon the world of the living, the third since he entered this unusual employment.

Yet he still remained mortal, in spite of the contract forged between him and the beautiful creature currently prowling around the study like a restless predator.