Chapter 36

The air between them buzzed with a tangible energy. She felt the urge to move closer, almost involuntarily, when another voice cut through the tension.

“Zoe, there you are!” Dominic’s familiar voice echoed down the hall. His eyes flicked to Cassius, jaw tightening ever so slightly. “I see you’ve already made… acquaintances.”

Cassius’s smirk didn’t falter, but his gaze shifted to Dominic with mild amusement. “Acquaintances may be a strong word. But I’m glad to see Zoe has such devoted friends.”

Dominic’s gaze was unyielding, his protective nature kicking in. “Friends keep each other safe,” he replied, his tone as sharp as his stare. He turned to Zoe, softening slightly. “Be careful around him, Zoe. Vampires… they’re not always what they seem.”

Zoe managed a small smile, though her thoughts were still spinning from Cassius’s words. “I know, Dominic,” she said, trying to sound casual. “But there’s something about this pendant, something I need to learn, and I think he has answers.”

Domin