Chapter 64

Dianna wakes from an erotic dream expecting Samkiel, but finds the bed empty. In the kitchen, she interrupts Samkiel and Imogen reviewing cryptic council materials. She flirts openly, apologizes to Imogen for past hostility, and learns Samkiel must return to the council, extracting only a promise he will not vanish for days again.

Once he leaves, Dianna’s internal darkness swells. She spends the day running to exhaust herself, then eats alone as night falls. Staring at the alien sky, she half-jokes with a bright “star,” confesses loneliness and fear of forgetting her family—especially her sister Gabby—and feels guilt when the room he made for her reminds her she is cared for.

Determined to reawaken her abilities, Dianna tries to trigger her vampiric traits before a mirror, but nothing happens. In the closet, a memory of Drake’s feigned friendship resurfaces; she reframes it, seeing how Samkiel’s presence had always been a shield, and takes pride in his protection rather than shame.

Back in bed, sleepless and aroused, Dianna struggles against desire. The emptiness of the room and the scent of Samkiel push her past restraint. She finally gives in, masturbating while vividly recalling their past intimacy and his words. The release is powerful but leaves her aching for him, admitting she wants only Samkiel.

After cleaning up and changing the sheets, Dianna returns to bed. Samkiel never comes back that night, underscoring her isolation and the growing tension between her fragile control and deepening attachment.