“Other than our longevity and a few other things, vampires and mortals are quite similar. We have those who are learned, ethical, and giving, and we have those who are brainless, immoral, and greedy. That attack in the park was politically driven; however, the end result gave those who performed it the opportunity to consume what we call Omega.”

“Omega? As in the last letter of the Greek alphabet?”

“Yes, or in this case, the last drop of blood a mortal has before death takes them. It is the most powerful source of nourishment for us, bar none. It brings with it an undefeatable sense of power and strength, and a healing ability far greater than anything you can imagine. Its effects, however, last only for three or four days, and while centuries ago we were monsters who took more than our fair share of Omega, for the most part, it’s now discouraged.”

“And…and you’ve done this?”

“Yes.”

Ruby bit at her lip for a moment. “Um…so what did you mean when you said for the most part?”

“Let’s just say there are a few that continue to color outside the lines, but in and around Back Bay, that’s no longer a problem.”

“And the attacks being political? What’s that about?”

Bennett took a long breath, and spotting their server, she motioned for the check. “I’d prefer not to get into that if you don’t mind. I think I’ve answered enough of your questions for the night.”

“I’m sorry. It’s just that one leads to another and then to another. It’s kind of hard to stop.”

“I’ve noticed.”

“I said I was sorry.”

Bennett stopped long enough to hand their waiter her debit card, and when he walked away, she finished her coffee before looking at Ruby. “I need to make sure you understand something.”

“Okay?”

“As I answered your questions tonight, I paid attention to your reactions. Your eyes widened at times, and even a bit of color drained from your face at others, a clear indication I shocked you or perhaps even appalled you.”

“A little of both, I suppose. I’m surprised you can so easily speak about things you’ve done or…or your kind has done like it’s no big deal.”

“You need to realize that if you become involved with me, you are becoming involved with a woman who, at times, was a monster and who, at times, has committed murder. There’s no way of getting around that, Ruby, and I can do nothing to erase it. I won’t apologize for what I am, for what I need to do to survive, or for what I’ve done…no matter how heinous you believe it to be.”

Their waiter returned, and Bennett wasted no time signing the bill, pocketing her debit card, and getting to her feet. “I think it’s time we go home.”

***