“Let her pass, Asher,” Caden came up beside his friend. “This is my… friend, Edith.”

Asher raised his eyebrows and mumbled warmly, “Friend indeed.”

Caden glanced at him sharply and gave a quick shake of his head. Edith could see Asher trying to remain serious, but a smile played on his lips.

“Why is she here?” A thin, frail-looking vampire stepped out of the group and came towards Edith. His voice was raspy and tired.

Caden looked at Edith with ...