The vampire's chilling gaze fixed on the little girl hiding behind the kitchen cabinet. The lightning outside the window illuminated his face. His features softened as he noticed the terrified tiny girl. Blood stained lips curved into a smile, and he began moving toward her with slow, deliberate steps. The girl immediately retreated further behind the cabinet—a poor little trick. On the polished parquet, a shadow stretched, growing larger and closer with every step. Until the vampire loomed fully in front of her. Tall and thin, his pale skin contrasted sharply with his blood-stained lips. He crouched down to meet the girl's eyes. This time, his gaze was not murderous but... compassionate, perhaps even sorrowful. He reached for her hand, but the moment he touched it, something changed in his expression. His eyes glazed over, as if he weren't even looking at her. As if he weren't even in the present.He looked at her again, and the girl trembled like a falling leaf at his strange behavior. Shock crossed the vampire's face. Then he spoke in a deep voice:
– What's your name? - His voice faltered with distrust.
– Katherine Holloway
- Katherine, - he murmured, tasting the name. - You have no idea who you are.
- So... who am I?" - The girl's curiosity overcame her fear.
- This is a very old story, - the vampire said, standing. - And it's not something you'll learn now. You must forget the horror you witnessed—and me for a while. Sweet dreams, Katherine!
His eye color shifted to red, piercing hers so deeply that she instantly forgot everything that had happened.