The vampire crashed into Katelina, trying to pin her to the van. He didn't know that extra physical strength was the one thing she'd inherited from her maker. She easily shoved him back where he sprawled in old leaves and spring mud.

He snarled and jerked to his feet, something metallic in his hand. A knife? She didn't stop to think, but pounced, swinging as she moved. Her fist connected with his head. She saw blood run from his ear.

He stumbled, then came back ...