I had joined the Jaeger Squad a few months ago. I was a vampire, but I didn’t drink blood — I slept to suppress my hunger.

At first, everyone was cautious, but over time they came to trust me. Everyone, except Yuliy.

That night, the group was staying at Ryouko’s family mansion. Yuliy was in the garden, motionless, lost in his own thoughts. Perhaps reflecting.

His thoughts were interrupted by my presence — of course, I had spent the entire day sleeping, so it wasn’t surprising to see me awake now.

He glared at me with barely concealed hatred.

— What’s up, little wolf? — I asked casually, a light smile on my lips.

— Don’t call me that. — Yuliy replied, sharp, his eyes narrowed. — And don’t make me say it again.

I smirked, unfazed by his hostility. — Fine, Yuliy... just trying to be friendly.

I stepped closer, crossing my arms, keeping that calmness that always irritated him.

— Are you always this serious, Yuliy? — I teased, tilting my head slightly. — Loosen up a little.

— Serious is surviving, — he said, his voice low and cutting. — Unlike you, who sleeps all day.

I laughed, but didn’t let it faze me. — It’s how I stay alive. Want to try it? Maybe you’ll learn something.

Yuliy narrowed his eyes, studying me. — I don’t need to learn anything from you. — A heavy silence fell between us. — And don’t think your “friendship” will win me over.

— Oh, so it’s not friendship? — I teased, walking slowly toward him. — What a shame... I thought there might be hope.

He took a deep breath, visibly annoyed, but held his posture. — Hope is for fools. I don’t have time for that.

I shrugged, keeping that light, almost challenging smile. — Alright then, little wolf... I mean, Yuliy. — I smiled, enjoying the slight eye roll he gave me. — Let’s see how long you can stay like this during the mission tomorrow.

Yuliy didn't respond, but his gaze didn't let me leave easily. There was something about him that got under my skin, and I hated admitting it.