When Vampires Fall In Love

Riley, a high school senior, navigates the complexities of her identity and budding desires, including a secret crush on Lindiwe. But a surprise birthday, a homophobic mother, and an unexpected move to New Orleans—a city shrouded in paranormal secrets—thrust her into a world far beyond her comprehension. Will New Orleans hold the key to her true self, or will she fall into the shadows of its hidden creatures?

When Vampires Fall In Love

Riley, a high school senior, navigates the complexities of her identity and budding desires, including a secret crush on Lindiwe. But a surprise birthday, a homophobic mother, and an unexpected move to New Orleans—a city shrouded in paranormal secrets—thrust her into a world far beyond her comprehension. Will New Orleans hold the key to her true self, or will she fall into the shadows of its hidden creatures?

The blare of my mom’s voice echoed through the house. “Riley, time for school!”

“I’m coming…” I grumbled from my room, dragging myself out of bed. God, another day of high school. At least it was the last one.

Then Mom burst in, a package in her hand, and shouted, “Happy birthday!”

My birthday? Oh, right. I’d totally forgotten.

She handed me the package, a dress I’d admired. After a quick hug and a rushed goodbye, I was out the door. The cab ride was a blur of thoughts about my future, my complicated feelings about boys, and a secret crush on Lindiwe, a girl who probably didn't even know I existed.

Aria, my best friend, was waiting at the school gate, a vibrant splash of energy against the morning light. "You're late!" she chirped, pulling me into a hug.

Later, after the final exam, I found myself wandering the empty halls, trying to shake off the persistent annoyance of Franklin, the school’s self-proclaimed bad boy. My phone pinged: a like from Lindiwe. My heart did a little flip.

That night, at the school dance, the dress Mom bought felt like a costume. I was a party pooper, hating the noise, the crowds, the forced fun. I found myself outside, away from the chaos, until a familiar voice broke the silence.

“You’re hiding from someone?”

It was Lindiwe. My heart hammered. We talked, we laughed, and then she led me to a quiet classroom. The air crackled with unspoken tension. “I wanna tear your clothes apart and kiss every part of you,” she whispered. My world tilted. This wasn't what I expected. But a desperate part of me wanted it. “Please do,” I heard myself say. She pushed me against the wall, and for the first time, I kissed a girl, and it felt… right.