City by the Sea 2

Joseph

I swallow, my eyes red again, before nodding and closing them.

Melissa

I put my neck near his lips in case he needs to feed again. I look around again and pray no one comes and sits at our table.

Joseph

I fist my free hand and take a deep breath.

Melissa

I sigh and rub his shoulder with my hand. "Calm down, it is going to be okay." I say. Then the worst possible thing happens, his friends come in. "Sh*t." I say

Joseph

"Yo, Joey-boy!"

I tense and open my eyes.

"Out of here. Now," I whisper to Melissa as they approach.

Melissa

I nod and stand. I grunt a little and push my chair in.

Joseph

I stand as well and follow her out.

Melissa

"Aw where are you two going?" They ask.

"We are leaving, excuse me." I say, trying to get fast.

Joseph

I ignore my friends and hide my eyes from them, quickly pushing our way out and trying to control myself.

Melissa

I swear in my head and push past them. I try to pull Joe through, but his hand is no longer in mine. I look back to him. "Joe." I say, trying to get his attention on me.

Joseph

I freeze where I am, every scent swirling together, and keep my eyes closed. Hearing Melissa, I pry myself from my disposition and search for her.

Melissa

I dead leg one of his friends to get past him. How many friends does he have? I jump up and down, trying to get him to see me.

Joseph

My hearing goes and my vision funnels, hazing red.

Melissa

I see him and know that look in his eyes. "Joe, please." I say, knowing my words are not getting to him.

Joseph

My eyes set on her, then her neck, before flickering to whoever's beside me as they pat me on the shoulder. I hear their blood rushing through their veins, hear their heart pumping as if it's my own.