Why did I think I'd be traveling alone? The moment I stepped back from kissing Liam goodbye, Charlotte took her place at my side, expression flat and no-nonsense.

I rolled my eyes at her and took my werefriend's hand. "Yes, Mom," I said.

My actual mother laughed as Charlotte's expression softened into a grin. "You two be good now," she said. "Play nice with the nasty vampire lady."

We'd see.

The veil parted before me, Charlotte right at my side as Ahbi ...