By the time the sun had set, the Holyfield estate was wrapped in a deep violet hue, and the faint sound of crickets and hooves filled the air.
The five of them were finally heading back toward Cassius's mansion after what had been one of the most emotionally draining days any of them could remember.
But the most striking change wasn't in the scenery—it was in their formation.
Normally, Maria and Joy would ride together on one horse, the mother and daughter inseparable as ever.
But tonight, that wasn't the case at all.
Now, Joy rode alone on her dark mare at the front, her posture perfectly straight and her face calm as ever.
Behind her, on another horse, were two figures riding side by side—Maria and Carmela.
Maria was smiling so warmly that she looked as if she could melt the night sky itself, her arm linked around Carmela's for balance, while the poor vampire sat rigidly on the saddle, looking like she'd rather face a firing squad than this much affection.
