For most of his life, Desmond had always felt like he was waiting for something.
Even with his strange abilities, even with the nagging feeling that he didn't fully belong in this world, he had managed to build a normal life in Phoenix. He had friends, school, and a routine that kept him grounded. But deep down, he knew it wouldn't last.
And one night, his entire world proved him right.
A Walk Under the Stars
It started as a regular evening.
Renée had gone out with Phil to celebrate a game win, leaving Desmond home alone. Normally, he'd just kick back and enjoy the quiet, but tonight, something felt off. A restless energy buzzed beneath his skin, making it impossible to sit still.
So, he went for a walk.
The Phoenix air was still warm, even though the sun had long since disappeared beyond the horizon. Desmond took the long route through his neighborhood, hands shoved in his pockets, trying to shake the feeling that something was watching him.
Then, he heard it.
A rustling in the alley.
Most people would have ignored it. Most people would have assumed it was a stray cat or the wind.
But Desmond wasn't most people.
He slowed his steps, turning toward the alleyway. His heart pounded in his chest as his eyes adjusted to the darkness.
Then—movement.
Something fast. Something wrong.
Then, a low growl.
Before Desmond could react, the figure lunged.
A flash of pale skin. A blur of movement. And then—pain.
Searing, burning pain erupted from his shoulder as sharp teeth sank into his flesh. His vision blurred, and his knees buckled, but his instincts kicked in.
His shield flared to life.
With a burst of energy, he expelled all the force he could muster, sending his attacker flying backward. He collapsed onto the pavement, clutching his shoulder, his entire body trembling.
The burning didn't stop.
It spread, seeping into his veins, lighting every nerve on fire. Desmond gritted his teeth, trying to push himself up, but his limbs felt weak.
Through hazy vision, he saw the vampire—yes, he knew it was a vampire—slowly rising to its feet.
Smirking.
"You're different," the creature murmured. "This… is going to be fun."
Desmond tried to stand, but his body was shutting down. The pain was unbearable, his vision darkening at the edges.
The last thing he saw before unconsciousness took him was the vampire's eerie, glowing eyes.
And then—darkness.