I said goodbye to Sunny and Uncle Frank, refusing to even talk to them about their own transformations, at least for now. Not after I'd failed with Pannera, had to tread the walk of shame-at least, in my own head-down the throne room aisle, past the watching, grieving vampires until I couldn't stand it anymore.

Lifted Sassafras into my arms, cuddling him close, as I tore open the veil and returned us to Castle Wilhelm.

"I won't pressure you," Sunny said as we touched ...