It started during gym class.
Rael was suddenly everywhere Kieran went. Same classes. Same lunch table. Same shadow. And worst of all—he smiled. Like none of it meant anything. Like they weren't enemies pretending to be classmates.
Kieran ignored him.
Until Rael pulled a chair beside Leo at lunch.
"Mind if I join?" he asked casually.
Leo stiffened. Kieran's eyes narrowed from across the cafeteria.
"I do," Leo said flatly.
Rael smirked. "Chill. Just curious what kind of guy makes Kieran ditch the Vow for books and bad cafeteria food."
Leo met his gaze. "Maybe someone who reminds him he's human."
Rael's grin faded. "Cute answer. Let's see if it holds when things get real."
---
After school, Kieran shoved Rael into the alley behind the gym.
"You stay away from him."
Rael didn't resist. "Touchy."
"Next time, I won't talk first."
Rael leaned closer. "This isn't about threats, Kieran. It's about time. The Vow is coming. You think you can build a quiet life, fall for some boy, and just walk away?"
"I already did."
Rael's eyes were dark. "Then watch how fast it burns."
---
That night, Leo found a crimson fang card tucked into his locker.
No words.
Just a blood-red symbol.
And the war officially began.