Book 3: A Friend in Need

Lydia

I watch warily as Randal comes over with a plate of food. His smile is wide and friendly like we’ve known each other for years. His overall niceness is unsettling compared to the usual treatment the feeders receive from the other Blood Takers. I don’t know what to make of this man.

“Hello, Lydia,” he greets me. “How are you today?”

“I’m great,” I respond sarcastically. “Never better.”

He snorts, finding me amusing, and hands me the plate. I take it reluctantly. Ever since he showed up, the feeders have been eating more. The better food has ensured I’ve healed from my injuries, and I feel stronger.

This would be an ideal time for another escape attempt except I don’t feel like trying again. After Jesse’s death, I’m afraid of what the Blood Takers will do to the feeders. They’ve shown themselves to be vengeful and ruthless. I would be dead if they didn’t think I’m valuable in some way.

If I do nothing, and we reach our destina