Chasing fireflies

Swamps of bayou

The tall cypress trees emerge from the murky water, their gnarled roots entwined like bony fingers, while moss hangs from the branches like spectral drapes. Frogs maintain a rhythmic croaking, blending with the whispers of the wind and the distant rumble of thunder. This place harbors ghosts and secrets, its beauty intertwined with danger, making everything feel slightly enchanted... or perhaps cursed.

He carried her over his shoulder, her head dangling down, as blood dripped from her hand, leaving a faint trail behind.

"Are you really going to dump her there?" "She's your daughter."

"She's nothing like me.

"You're out of it, man. You don't know what you're saying," the other man replied.

"Just watch my back and keep quiet," he commanded, his boots sloshing through the mud.

He let her fall into the water, or rather, the murky water. He felt nothing, as if she wasn't his own child.

"Let's get out of here,"

"The gators will get her,"

"That's the idea. Her time's up," he laughed, sending chills down the man's spine.

"Cold-hearted bastard,"

A figure slipped out from the shadows of the trees, moving quickly to the body lying motionless in the murky water. He knelt, fingers pressing against her neck, still a pulse, weak but there. Fireflies gathered around her almost like a shield.

He hated this damn job. Hoisting her over his shoulder, he felt the warm trickle of blood from her arm. She smelled like flowers but touching her was off-limits. He dumped her in the car, cranked the engine, and drove off without looking back.

Callum's estate

Chloe woke up starving, her stomach growling like it hadn't been fed in days. She blinked, taking in the red lace draped over the bed and her white outfit-top and skirt. "What the hell?" she mumbled, just as the door creaked open. An old man, stiff and unnerving, shuffled toward her. She grabbed a pillow, scooting back against the headboard.

"Follow me," he said flatly, then turned on his heel.

Against her better judgment, she slid off the bed and trailed after him. Why am I doing this? she thought. It's like my body's on autopilot.

In the next room, five girls stood in a line, their gazes locked on something ahead. Chloe turned to look and froze. "This has to be a dream," she whispered. "Or I'm dead."

The figures seated on the ornate throne looked pale, hollow, like corpses propped up for show.

"Yes, you're dead," one of them said, his voice cold. "But this is your chance to join us."

"Join you? What are you?" Chloe asked, her voice shaky.

Before she could react, one of them was in her face, fangs bared. "Do not interrupt me again," he hissed. "Or you'll be dead before the games even start."

Chloe let out a nervous laugh. "This is just a dream. You're not real." She shoved him, surprised when he stumbled back. The gasp from the crowd snapped her attention to the room, people or dead people were watching, their expressions a mix of shock and amusement.

"Okay," she mumbled. "Maybe not a dream."

The man's anger flared, his fangs out, until a woman touched his shoulder. She was stunning, her smile sharp as a blade, and leaned in to whisper something in his ear. "You're lucky she likes you," he purred, stepping back. He slumped into his throne, waving a hand. "Bring the men."

Ten men filed in, doubling the number of girls. Chloe's mind spun. Vampires? Seriously? Her eyes still on the pale man on that throne. She let out a laugh, quickly masking it with a cough. This had to be some messed-up dream.

"Chloe, you're up first. Choose a mate."

"A mate? Like, a date?" She smiled convinced this nonsense would end any second now.

The vampire on the throne chuckled. "Yes, dear. A date."

Someone once told her to look people in the eyes if you want to see their soul. She stopped in front of each man, studying them, until she landed on number six. He had a jagged cut running from his eyebrow to his jaw, his body lean but strong, not puffed up like the others. His blue eyes were haunted, lost.

"Interesting choice," the vampire remarked, raising an eyebrow.

Dana was called next, then Samantha, Jasmine, Ebony and Olivia, the girls made their picks until only five men remained. What happened next, Chloe wasn't prepared for. A frenzy of feeding erupted, the pairs watching in horror as the vampires descended.

"Welcome to the Love Games," the vampire announced, blood dripping from his lips. "A love story to die for."

Ebony tried to bolt, earning a mark on her arm for her trouble. Chloe reached for her man's hand, and he gripped it tightly.

"Now, the rules," the vampire continued, pacing like a game show host. "You've got six days and nights before you're fully dead. Right now, you're in limbo. Survive, and you can join us or return to your miserable little lives.

Rule two: You must fall in love. This is about romance, and we adore romance. Hell, they write books about us." He laughed, and Chloe felt a chill crawl up her spine.

Rule three: You can't say it with words. Ever.

Rule four: No killing You both die. No cheating. You die."

"Rule five: No quitting, finish the games together, no matter what.

Rule six: One chance to swap mates if you screwed up. Everyone has to agree, though. Got it? Good. Now, go change. We're throwing a party."

The crowd erupted into cheers. Chloe blinked, startled. The man was still gripping her hand like it was a lifeline. They followed the old man to their room where a timer ticked down: one hour.

Hunter finally let go of her hand and started pacing.

"Mind telling me your name?" Chloe asked, breaking the silence.

"What?" He stopped, glancing at her. She was pale, her light brown hair framing dark green eyes. Young, beautiful. "How old are you?"

"Nineteen. Forever, I guess," she said with a nervous laugh.

He let out a dry chuckle. "Hunter. He paused. I've got a reason to live."

"What's that?"

He stepped closer, eyes blazing. "Revenge."

She reached up, her fingers brushing the scar on his face. "Guess that makes two of us."

"Why Isabella?" Callum leaned forward. "What draws you to Chloe?"

Isabella's gaze swept over her ancient clansmen. A thousand years of immortality had left them desperate for entertainment, and The Games, well, perhaps second only to the annual Bloodlust Gala, provided rare excitement.

"There's something in her eyes," she replied. "A warrior's spirit."

Callum smirked. "She won't survive the first round."

All eyes turned to the massive screen displaying the contestants.

"Brother," Arran interjected, "I've wagered on Jasmine. She's paired with the strongest male."

Ariana rolled her eyes. "You're both idiots. Love follows no logic. Remember how I despised Fergus before falling for him?"

Laughter rippled through the group.

"How could we forget?" Callum raised his glass. "Place your bets. Let the games commence."

They tapped their phones, digital wagers confirmed.

Chloe checked the watch. "We need a strategy."

"How?" Hunter frowned. "We don't know what we're facing."

"First rule: we stay together. Always."

"Why did you choose me?" he asked suddenly.

Chloe stepped closer. "Your eyes, Hunter. They told me everything I needed to know."

A sharp knock interrupted them. The butler entered, his posture rigid.

"Change into these," he commanded, extending the suit and dress to them.

"Thanks," Chloe managed, her voice steady. "Go change first," she added, nodding toward the bathroom. Hunter disappeared inside and emerged moments later in the suit. Chloe glanced up at him, taking a shallow breath. Okay, focus, she thought. She ducked into the bathroom herself, finding everything laid out neatly. She changed quickly, brushed her hair, and added just a touch of blush to her pale face. Death chic, she decided dryly, naming the look on the spot. When she stepped out, Hunter's gaze lingered for a beat too long before he caught himself and reached for her hand. She looked stunning, not that she cared to acknowledge it. The timer buzzed, the door swung open, and they were ushered down the long hallway. The marble throne room they'd seen earlier had been transformed into some kind of decadent party. Servers circulated with trays of drinks. Chloe grabbed one and drained it in a single gulp.

Hunter shot her a sharp look. "What the hell? We need to stay sharp. This isn't real." "Don't tell me what to do," she snapped back, her voice cutting through the chatter. Callum materialized beside them, his smile sharp.

"May I have this dance, Chloe?"

"Do I have a choice?" she shot back, her tone icy. He chuckled, low and amused. "No, you don't. But I see why Isabella's taken with you. That fire, it's intoxicating." His smile faltered as Hunter stepped forward.

"How is this fair?" Hunter demanded, his voice tight. A hand landed on his shoulder, and Isabella appeared beside him. "Dance with me instead," she offered, her tone smooth but firm.

A glowing board lit up, displaying their names, and the crowd erupted in cheers.

Chloe glanced at Hunter. They were third on the list.

Jasmine and Damon were first, Olivia and Jayson second, followed by Dana and Kaden, Samantha and Marcus, and finally Ebony and Brian.

Callum's gaze settled on Chloe. "You smell divine," he said, his voice dripping with amusement.

Chloe's stomach churned. She scanned the room for Hunter. "What the hell does that even mean?" she muttered.

"I'm surprised he hasn't tasted you yet," Callum continued, his grin widening.

"What are you talking about?" she shot back, her voice sharp.

"You can taste him, or he can taste you. Do whatever feels right. Just know you can't change him after."

Chloe narrowed her eyes. "What kind of twisted game are you running here?"

Callum leaned in, his breath cold against her ear. "Can't spoil the surprises, can I?" He pressed his lips to her hand, icy and lingering, before disappearing into the crowd.

She turned and nearly collided with Hunter. "Are you okay?" he asked, his brow furrowed.

"Creeped out," she admitted. "But yeah. I need another drink."

Hunter grabbed her arm. "Chloe, we need to focus. Who knows what's coming next?"

She sighed. "Fine. Then dance with me and tell me something I don't know."

He hesitated, then pulled her closer. "I died fighting. Betrayed by someone I trusted."

"Ouch," Chloe said. "My father killed me."

Hunter smiled. "Okay, you win."

She laughed despite herself. "A woman?"

"Yeah," he admitted. "Someone I thought I loved."

Chloe's stomach sank. "Great. So now you hate women. This is going well."

Hunter tilted her chin up. "We can do this. Don't give up on me, Chloe."

She met his gaze. "I'll fight to the end, Hunter. The question is, will you?"

A bell rang, and the board shifted. They dropped to fourth place.

"They're watching us," Chloe muttered under her breath, her eyes darting around the room. "Every damn move."

Hunter swore under his breath. "Great. Just what we need, audience participation."

"This might be the time to switch partners," Hunter said, her hand suddenly clamping over his mouth.

"What the hell?" Hunter mumbled, muffled against her palm. He leaned in, catching a whiff of her, smelled so good and his stomach growled. He clenched his jaw, forcing the hunger down. Closing his eyes, he tightened his grip on her waist.

A bell chimed, and the crowd shifted, leaving the contestants exposed to the floor like prey.

"Time to change partners, if you wish," Callum announced, his grin smug as he waited, arms crossed.

Brian stepped forward, zeroing in on Chloe. "I want you," he declared, his blatant tone. Ebony stood behind him, tears streaking her face.

Hunter stepped in front of Chloe, his voice low and dangerous. "Back off. Unless you want to regret it."

"Let the lady speak for herself, Hunter," Brian shot back, undeterred.

Chloe peered around Hunter's shoulder. "I'm staying with him."

Isabella cheered, clapping her hands, while Callum smirked. "Still think they'll make it?"

"I do," Isabella replied, her tone firm. "They're meant for each other."

Brian retreated to Ebony, who promptly slapped him hard across the face.

Meanwhile, Kaden and Dana were snapping at each other, Olivia and Jayson were locked in a heated argument, and Samantha was glaring at Marcus. The bell rang again.

Hunter grabbed Chloe's hand, and she squeezed it tightly, her nails digging into his palm.

"Alright, back to your rooms," Callum called out. "Rest for an hour. Be ready for the first game."

Chloe leaned back against the pillows, the room thick with tension. Hunter settled beside her, his fingers brushing hers. "Chloe," he started, hesitating. "I can't focus. I'm starving."

She stayed quiet.

The air felt heavy, like everyone was holding their breath. Hunger wasn't something they talked about, not until now. The crowd watched the screen.

She turned to him, her voice steady. "One of us has to keep it together, right?" Her hand grazed the faint scar on his face. "Hunter, no matter what happens, I hope you get what you're after."

Her eyes closed as his lips barely touched hers. Then he bit down, just enough to draw blood, before pulling back, confusion clouding his expression.

"Hunter?" she murmured, opening her eyes.

"What are you?" he mumbled, fighting the urge to go further. Instead, he kissed her again, deeper this time. She leaned into it, her hand resting lightly on his chest.

When they finally broke apart, he held her close, inhaling the faint scent of her skin.

"Feel better?" she asked, her tone soft.

"Yeah," he replied with a shaky laugh, his fingers tracing her pale cheek. "Aren't you hungry?"

"Oh, I am," she admitted. "But I'm trying to keep it in check."

He kissed her again, slowly, her touch lingering on him.

The doorbell rang, sharp and sudden. They exchanged a look. He took her hand, and together they walked down the long hallway, the sound of their footsteps echoing in the silence.

Hunter gripped her hand tightly, feeling the faint tremble in her fingers. Vampires moved in swiftly, dragging the girls away. Chloe's fingers brushed him for a moment before she was yanked out of reach. He clenched his jaw, stifling the urge to shout at Callum, who stood there with that infuriating smirk.

"Alright, listen up," Callum announced, pacing like a ringmaster. "Six cemeteries. One night. Find your mate. Escape, get help, or, hell, I don't know, do nothing and die. Your choice. You'll be escorted to your starting point. Pick a cemetery, any cemetery. Your mate is in a mausoleum, buried alive. Well, technically dead. But you get the point. Find her, because of the horrors she's facing? Yeah, they're her worst nightmares that come to life. Literally." He chuckled, the sound dripping with malice. Hunter felt a cold knot twist in his gut.

"Place your bets!" Callum called out, and the crowd erupted into cheers.

Hunter glanced at the map. He pointed to the farthest cemetery, his decision quick and deliberate. A vampire grabbed him roughly, shoving him into the back of a darkened car. The door slammed shut, leaving him in silence.

The screens flickered to life, casting an eerie blue light on the crowd gathered, their faces illuminated with anticipation and excitement. The six screens showed different views of the cemeteries: each one bathed in moonlight and shadows. The crowd, with their eager expressions and betting on their phones, watched as the contestants were shoved into the darkened cars.

In her coffin, Chloe's eyes flew open, walls closing around her. She squeezed her eyes shut, forcing shallow breaths through constricted lungs.

Jasmine lay still, thinking she might survive this, claustrophobia wasn't her demon. Then something cold slid across her stomach. A black snake writhed beside her in a narrow space, and her scream echoed inside the sealed box.

Dana shifted sideways, whispering, "Just temporary, just temporary," like a mantra. When darkness suddenly enveloped her, her composure shattered into a piercing shriek.

Hunter concentrated, knowing scent was his only guide. "Focus," "Find her before it's too late." The memory of her lips against his lingered as the car jerked to a stop.

A vampire hauled him out, shoving him through the cemetery gates. Hunter sprinted forward, nostrils flaring for any trace of her. The grounds stretched endlessly, but he remembered Callum's words and veered toward the cluster of mausoleums in the distance.

Elsewhere, Olivia had already fainted mid-scream. Ebony trembled violently against the wall of the coffin. And Samantha, composed until now, thrashed wildly as earthworms rained down upon her face.

Hunter was certain she wasn't there. He bolted back to the car, barking at the driver to head to the next cemetery. An hour passed, his mind stuck on Chloe. What kind of nightmare was she trapped in? His chest tightened as he scanned the cemetery grounds, zeroing in on the mausoleums. He took off running.

Meanwhile, Chloe forced herself to breathe steadily, eyes shut tight. She focused on the memory of Hunter's kiss, real, deliberate, nothing like the clumsy pecks she'd known before. She clung to that, replaying it in her mind. His face flashed behind her closed lids, and then the light in the coffin flickered out. Panic surged. "This isn't real," her voice trembling. "You're already dead. Nothing can hurt you." She raised her voice, defiant. "You won't break me, Callum!" Then, almost instinctively, she began to sing, an old tune, something her grandmother used to hum. The crowd, watching the screens, started cheering for her. Someone tossed in cash, and just like that, the light flickered back on.

Her beautiful face was back onto the screen, wide-eyed but determined. Arran smiled.

"Brother," Callum said, raising an eyebrow, "didn't expect that."

"I like her," Arran replied, leaning back. "I'm rooting for her."

Callum chuckled. "You do realize this is about love, right? If she falls for him..."

"Love?" Arran cut in, waving a hand. "I've got eternity for that. This? This is just fun."

Callum laughed, clearly loving his twisted games.

Meanwhile, Jasmine's breathing slowed as the snake coiled around her neck. The casket lid creaked open, and Damon hauled her out, wrapping her in a tight hug. Her body shook like a leaf. The crowd erupted in cheers.

Hunter caught her scent, subtle but unmistakable. He followed it straight to the mausoleum, wrenching open a casket to find Chloe inside, her terrified eyes locking onto his. He pulled her out, hands moving quickly to check her over. His lips met her briefly before he buried his face in her hair, inhaling deeply.

Arran watched a smirk playing on his lips. "Amour..."

The others were still searching. Hunter and Chloe were brought back, sitting together as they watched the screens. His arm stayed tight around her, her head resting on his shoulder.

"What did you face?" Hunter asked quietly.

"Claustrophobia. Darkness,"

He cursed under his breath. "Glad I got a taste of you. Your scent led me straight there."

Marcus stumbled upon Samantha first, then Kaden managed to dig up Dana. The clock was ticking, and Brian was tearing through the last cemetery, frantic. Ebony whispered prayers under her breath, her voice trembling. Callum let out a booming laugh.

"No gods are going to save you, sweetheart," almost pitying. Time was up. They were hauled back.

Chloe buried her face into Hunter's chest as the vampires descended on the couple in a frenzy. "Stay strong, Chloe," he murmured into her ear, his arms locking around her tight.