BITE ME ONCE KISS ME TWICE

-Caden's POV-

The port of Firebend, nestled atop a mountain, thrived with thousands of families under my leadership as Mayor Lockwood. It was no accident that a bustling port had developed in such an elevated location; the mountain was rich with valuable metal ores essential for the survival and growth of both Firebend and Stonewick.

The harbor itself was a sight to behold, an enchanting resort adorned with bamboo-roofed buildings, walls, and a waterfall staircase. Firebend's economy thrived, primarily driven by wood crafting, armor smithing, and carpentry, but their sustainable hunting practices remained their most prized asset.

At the foot of the mountain, the true architectural heart of the trade hub flourished. The lush, green fields surrounding it added to its allure and played a significant role in the city's design. Most structures imitated the tall, slender form of the grasses that enveloped them. Alongside the elegant buildings that graced the skyline, there was no other place on Earth quite like it. Stonewick's parks and gardens flourished, drawing attention and admiration from all corners.

The city's history was a tapestry woven by countless civilizations, each leaving its mark. From a city with few defining traits, Stonewick had evolved into a vibrant mosaic of diversity, continually bringing its residents together. If there was one thing that concerned me as the Mayor, it was the awakening of Sebastian Kensington.

Staring into the mirror, I groaned with frustration, my silver hair cascading over my weathered face. My once alluring brown eyes now held worry, and I wondered if anyone could find me attractive in my current state. In my younger years, I had been a hopeless romantic, and the thick beard that accentuated my cheekbones served as a reminder of those times.

I had made a promise to someone that I would maintain it for life, and so I did, despite the multiple opportunities to shave it off. As I took a deep breath, my hand absentmindedly caressed the beard, reminiscing about elegant memories from my time with that woman. Lost in my daydreams, I was abruptly interrupted by a persistent knocking on the door.

Agitated, I made my way to the door and opened it, only to be disappointed by the sight of Camille Barnett's face. She had been part of my family's service for over a decade, but her attempted seduction of me in the past was a severe transgression. As punishment, I had sentenced her to confinement in the Kensington estate.

"I urge you to return to your duties as swiftly as possible," I instructed her, my disappointment evident. Although Camille spoke calmly, I could sense her internal turmoil and her plea for forgiveness.

"He's awake," she murmured softly, tears welling up in her eyes. Working in the mansion had been an unpleasant experience for her, and sleeping in a place where vampires had once resided only added to her discomfort. However, in her eyes, I seemed scarier than those immortals.

I looked at Camille, my brows furrowed in confusion. "Excuse me?" I inquired, seeking clarification.

"Sebastian Kensington is awake," she responded to my question.

I stood there, staring at Camille for a moment, then paced back and forth in my office with hands in my pockets. I took a deep breath, trying to find the right words to express my thoughts. The awakening of Sebastian Kensington bewildered me. Why had he chosen this particular time?

"Why in the world did he wake up now?" I wondered aloud, frustration seeping into my voice as I raised it, causing the words to reverberate through the office.

Camille shook her head, unable to provide an answer. It was clear

that those residing in the mansion, including Sebastian's descendants and relatives, shared equal concern about the return of their true leader. After the Great War between humans and vampires, they had tried to sustain themselves on animal blood for centuries. But Sebastian Kensington was known for his particular dietary preferences.

"Can you tell me his whereabouts?" I asked Camille, noticing the loss of composure in her trembling hands. I felt a pang of guilt for the woman; the awakening of the true vampire leader must have left her feeling threatened. "Have you had anything to eat yet?"