Vampire lore - Carmilla/First Kill

Chapter 26

The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows over the docks as the day wore on. The atmosphere was thick with tension as Danny leaned against a nearby post, still recovering from the traumatic pull of the vortex. Just moments before, she had been lost in a swirling chaos, but now, the world felt oddly still—like a calm after a storm.

Carmilla and Juliette stood protectively beside her, their expressions sharp with determination. Danny could still feel the residual energy coursing through her, but it was Carmilla's unwavering grip that had anchored her in reality.

Just then, the sound of screeching tires broke through the air, and the rest of their group piled out of the minivan, breathless and wide-eyed.

— Danny! - Kirsch shouted, rushing toward her. He took in her pale face and the way she leaned heavily against the post. His eyes widened with concern. - What happened? Are you okay?

Danny attempted to muster a reassuring smile but faltered, her voice barely above a whisper.

— I...I was in this vortex, and then...

Before she could explain further, Carmilla's voice sliced through the air, sharp and filled with frustration.

— What the hell were you all thinking, coming here? - Her eyes burned into Laura, who stood at the front of the group, looking both worried and slightly guilty.

Laura opened her mouth to respond, but Carmilla continued, her voice rising.

— You're human, Laura! You could have gotten hurt! You have no idea what's going on here!

The tension crackled as the rest of the group fell silent, absorbing the weight of Carmilla's anger. Mel exchanged a worried glance with Perry, and Laf shifted uncomfortably, their eyes darting between the two women.

Laura stepped forward, her demeanor calm despite the storm brewing around her.

— Carmilla, I know you're worried, but we couldn't just sit back at the house while you three were in danger. We had to do something.

Carmilla's frustration flared, but there was a flicker of something softer in her eyes. She took a breath, trying to reign in her emotions.

— You don't get it. This isn't just a casual stroll down the docks. This is dangerous! I can handle it, but you...

— I'm not some fragile flower - Laura interrupted, her voice steady. - I can take care of myself. I'm not letting fear dictate my actions, especially when it comes to you.

Carmilla's gaze softened at Laura's words, the anger in her expression beginning to fade.

— But what if something had happened? What if you got hurt? I can't lose you, Laura. - The vulnerability in her voice was palpable, echoing the deep love they shared.

Laura stepped closer, her hands reaching out to cradle her wife's face.

— You won't lose me. I'm right here. You know I would never let anything happen to you either. - She leaned in, capturing Carmilla's lips in a gentle, grounding kiss. The world around them faded for just a moment, the intensity of the moment wrapping them in warmth.

When they broke apart, Carmilla's expression was still serious, but the anger had dulled to concern.

— Just promise me you'll be more careful - she murmured, and Laura nodded, her eyes shining with reassurance.

In the midst of this emotional exchange, Kirsch leaned closer to Danny, whose legs wobbled as she struggled to regain her strength.

— You look like you've just run a marathon. Let me help you - he said, his voice filled with gentle urgency.