Page 29 of Black Hollow: Awakening

“I didn’t tell you to do anything, Blake, I just invited you,” Norma reminded him condescendingly. “But if you like being ordered around, I can think of something,” she added suggestively, and Blake sent her a scandalized look. “Be nice, okay? Will needs someone he can talk to.”

“I have no intention of talking to him,” Blake fumed. “I’m busy.”

“Yes, yes, horribly busy being an unavailable asshole, I know, Blake, I know.” Norma was using the tone one might use with a toddler. Alden’s eyes narrowed dangerously. “But since you’re both here… Will wants to ask a few questions.”

This was apparently his cue to speak, because they were all looking at him expectantly.

“Liam told me about werewolves,” Will said timidly. “And witches seem pretty straightforward, so… I’d like to know something about vampires.”

“Something about vampires,” Blake repeated sourly. “What an eloquent specimen.”

“Don’t worry, he won’t bite you,” Norma reassured Will with a grin.

“Don’t even disgust me with the thought!” Alden snapped.

“Since Blake is being as helpful as ever, I’ll explain,” Norma offered. “Vampires feed on blood, yes. Not exclusively, but mostly. Over the centuries, they’ve built a reputation as predators, but in most civilized countries, they haven’t hunted humans for a long time. They drink synthetic blood.”

Synthetic blood… Will’s attention momentarily focused on Alden’s costume. Surely they weren’t talking about that?

“It’s blood produced specifically for their needs,” Norma said, noticing his confusion.

“Wait… There’s technology that can create synthetic blood?” Will asked, amazed. “I mean, blood that’s like human blood?”

“Yup.”

“So why don’t they use it to save people? Why do we still need blood donations if you can just make it?”

“Oh, they do use it to save people,” Norma assured him. “In a way. To save them from constant vampire attacks.”

“Oh, for God’s sake!” Blake bristled. “Vampires haven’t attacked humans in ages!”

“Blake, if you’re capable of having a normal conversation, feel free. If not, kindly shut up.”

“I don’t know,” Alden replied dryly. “Would you be able to have a normal conversation with a pig?”

Will’s eyes went wide, and he stared at Blake in outrage. He couldn’t believe he’d said that!

“Great question.” Norma didn’t seem fazed. “And the answer is: apparently so, because that’s exactly how I feel when I’m talking to you.”

Blake shot up from his seat.

“I’m leaving,” he hissed, insulted.

“No!” Norma cried out dramatically. “I beg of you, oh Prince of Darkness, remain in my embrace!” Alden froze for a brief moment, seeming confused by her performance. Norma let out an irritated snort. “Go on then, you asshole, what are you waiting for?”

Blake lifted his chin and marched out without a word. Liam smiled to himself, then said his goodbyes and followed his friend.

“Blake is Blake,” Norma summed up. “Don’t worry about it.”

“Yeah.” Will offered a weak smile. “Good thing we’re immune to his charm.”

“Immune?” Norma repeated, astonished. “No one is completely immune to a vampire’s charm, though the intensity of its effect is usually tied to your preferences.”

“Meaning?”

“Well, you know, if someone isn’t into guys, Blake isn’t going to enchant them that much. Besides, other factors come into play. Sure, vampires are naturally attractive, it’s part of the lure, but tastes can be more refined, right? Still, on some people, it works really strongly. Don’t be mad at those girls who flock around him. It’s really not their fault, and their age doesn’t help. You know, raging hormones amplify feelings.”

“I’m into guys…”