Nancy ’ s stomach churned with dread as she watched her parents hold the little girl ’ s hands as if she were a part of the family . She strayed back a few more paces , wondering how her parents could be so foolish , but then she stopped for a moment . They didn ’ t see her sickly black eyes , like oil spilled over innocence .
“ Sit in the back with Cassie ,” her mother said in a blank voice .
Nancy was about to protest but sighed in resignation . Tears pricked her eyes as she slid into the sedan next to the girl . Despite the oppressive heat outside , Nancy trembled , and her skin puckered in gooseflesh .
Cassie snapped her neck in the teenager ’ s direction , her obsidian eyes sending a deadly warning . Sharp fangs subtly curved over her lower lip , just enough to expose the fine points .
Nancy stifled a whimper and focused on her mother ’ s stiff hair-sprayed locks as they pulled out of the parking lot , over the bridge , and passed other beachgoers heading inside to avoid the torrential rain . Her eyes drifted to the window , trying to remain calm while the droplets slid down the window but couldn ’ t stop focusing on the “ girl ” beside her . She swore Cassie growled once while clicking her fangs together , potentially growing impatient by the long ride .
Once the family pulled into the driveway , Nancy ’ s parents rushed Cassie inside , wrapped her in plush blankets , and sat her on the couch . Mary hurried into the kitchen and mumbled something about cocoa with extra marshmallows . Nancy sat on the opposite side of the
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