Love Me Like I Love You

I stood in front of the mirror, admiring myself with a big smile. My hair was styled in a high ponytail, giving me a playful and energetic look. The vibrant yellow top I had chosen perfectly complemented my sun-kissed complexion, while the shorts showcased my toned legs. My favorite sneakers added a touch of sporty chic to the outfit.

As I took in my reflection, I felt a surge of confidence. The combination of the ponytail, the bright colors, and the comfortable yet stylish attire made me feel ready to take on the world. I twirled around, the fabric of my shorts swishing gracefully with each spin.

Feeling fabulous, I grabbed my phone and snapped a quick selfie to capture the moment. It had been so long since I felt this good. Despite trying to deny it, I’d been looking forward to this day for a while now. The thought of going on a date with Carter filled me with excitement, even though I still worried about Emily not responding to my texts. But I convinced myself not to stress. Emily was my best friend; she wouldn’t let something this small ruin our friendship. She’d come around eventually. And if she didn’t, I’d go to her house and explain everything.

After one final check in the mirror to make sure everything was in order, I left my room with a satisfied grin. Mom and Bill had returned from their vacation yesterday, but I hadn’t seen much of Mom. Deep down, it bothered me that Bill seemed to command all her attention now, even though I knew it was selfish to expect otherwise. There had been a time when I was the only one she doted on. But as long as she was happy, I could live with it.

Carter said he’d pick me up at 7, but it wasn’t even 6:30 yet. Anxiously, I passed the time watching YouTube videos in the living room. Mom and Bill were upstairs, and Silas wasn’t home. Bill mentioned he’d gone out with friends, but I’d hoped to see him before leaving. I had wanted his advice about my date—something to help me avoid messing it up. Plus, I thought he might have useful tips about vampires, things I wouldn’t think to ask Carter.

My heart skipped a beat when I heard a car pull up outside. Assuming it was Carter, I rushed to the door, only to find Silas waiting instead.

“Woah, where are you going?” he asked, eyeing my outfit.

“Well… I wanted to talk to you about it. I’m going on a date tonight and thought you could give me some advice.”

“You’re going on a date?” His voice was sharp, almost bitter. He stared at me like I’d just admitted to doing something terrible. I thought he was about to say something mean, but when he noticed my hopeful expression, he stopped himself. Silas was always hard to read. One moment he’d seem annoyed with me; the next, it was as if he’d do anything to make me happy.

“Well?” I prompted.

“I don’t know about advice. If it’s about your date, maybe you should ask Mom instead.”

Talking to Silas about this was already embarrassing. But I figured he’d understand me better, especially because Carter was a vampire. “Can you just hear me out before brushing me off?” I pleaded.

“For goodness’ sake, Kerry, the last thing I want to hear about is your date. Ask Mom.”

“She wouldn’t understand.”

“And why’s that?”

“Because Carter is a vampire.” I hesitated before continuing. “I thought since you’re a vampire too, you might have some tips about what not to do in front of him.”

“Excuse me?” Silas’s face twisted in disbelief. His usual composure crumbled, replaced by a fiery intensity. “Did you just say you’re going out with a vampire?”

“Yes, which is why I need your advice—”

“Are you f***** crazy?!* You’re dating a vampire now? Who is this guy? Don’t tell me it’s some celebrity.”

“Why are you overreacting? And no, Carter’s not a celebrity.”

“Carter Williams? The neighbor?! What the f***, Kerry? Didn’t you say you hated vampires? Now suddenly you’re willing to date one? You have to be joking.”

“Okay, you know what? Forget it. I shouldn’t have asked you for advice. If Mom asks, tell her I’ll be back before ten.”

I turned to leave, but Silas grabbed my wrist, pulling me back. His frustration was palpable. “You’re not going anywhere until you explain when you started liking vampires.”

“Why do you care so much? Aren’t you the one who always told me to get over my fear of vampires? Now that I have, shouldn’t you be happy?”

“Yes, I’m thrilled you’re over your phobia, but what I’m not happy about is you wasting it on him!” His voice cracked, and his words sent a chill down my spine. “All this time, I’ve been here for you. Treated you the best I could. And now, when you’re finally open to being with a vampire, you choose him? Are you really this blind, Kerry?”

“What are you talking about?” I stared at him, completely lost.

“Damnit, Kerry.” His voice broke, and for the first time, I saw tears welling in his eyes. Silas, who had always been my rock, looked as though he was falling apart. “What am I doing wrong? Why can’t you love me the way I love you?”

“Of course, I love you, Silas,” I whispered, wrapping my arms around him. “You’re my brother. Please don’t cry.”

“It’s not the same,” he muttered, pulling away. He wiped his tears quickly, as if ashamed to show them. Before I could ask what he meant, Mom and Bill came downstairs, drawn by the commotion.

“What’s going on here?” Mom asked, glancing between us.

“It’s nothing,” Silas said flatly. “I was just wishing Kerry good luck on her date.” Without another word, he turned and went upstairs, not sparing me a single glance. My chest tightened painfully. I’d hurt him without even knowing how.

Mom hugged me. “Be safe, baby. Don’t do anything stupid.”

“I got it, Mom.”

“If anything happens, call,” Bill added.

“Thanks, Bill.” I forced a smile and stepped outside, my heart heavy. Carter was leaning casually against his car, his face lighting up when he saw me.

“You look amazing. Ready?”

“Yes,” I said, hoping my voice didn’t betray my emotions.

“Then let’s go.” He leaned down to kiss my cheek and opened the car door for me. I slid into the seat, but as he drove off, all I could think about was Silas’s tear-streaked face. Whatever I’d done, it was awful. And I had no idea how to make it right.