Something about the way Eileen adjusts and readjusts the book resting in front of her softens me. Nice to know that even a blood-sucking, serial killing vampire can get intimidated by communication. I twist the latte mug in front of me, slightly fidgeting with its handle as I keep my eyes on Eileen.

She lets out a slow breath, “Firstly, I wanted to give this back to you.” She holds out the gold, heart-shaped keychain I got back in high school out to me.

My eyes ...