Bloodbound Heart's: Love's Crimson Year

Chapter 8 - The Choice That Changed Everything

A few weeks had drifted by, and Amber found herself at home, nestled in the comfort of familiarity. As she watched Star swaying gently with Laddie in her arms, a joyous laughter bubbled from her lips, a testament to the warmth within.

After much pleading from Amber, David had sought out Max, hoping for a glimmer of hope in the form of a cure. Regrettably, their efforts proved futile as Max confirmed the absence of a remedy.

Yet, amidst the bittersweet reality, there was solace in the simple moments, her mind wandered elsewhere, tethered to the imminent closure of her past life with the pending sale of her old house. With each passing day, she felt the ties to her former self loosening, paving the way for a new beginning.

As her 22nd birthday loomed on the horizon, a decision crystallized within her. Determined not to age further, she resolved to embrace immortality, mirroring Paul's transformational journey at the same age but still younger then both Dwayne and David. Marko, forever frozen in youth, would remain the eternal youngest among them.

Most nights were filled with the whirl of the boardwalk, Laddie bouncing with excitement over the rides and the promise of sugary treats. But tonight, Star wasn't feeling the vibe, so Amber and Laddie decided to have a cozy night in, just the three of them. It was a rare moment of tranquillity without the boys' antics.

They joyfully belted out Madonna tunes, with Laddie bouncing on the couch alongside them. Amber and Star improvised microphones out of household items, their laughter filling the room.

Their peace was shattered by the uproarious cheers that echoed through the entrance, signalling the return of the boys. Marko practically bounced in, a grin stretching from ear to ear as he plopped two massive pizza boxes onto the table. "Feast your eyes, my friends, on these glorious pizzas!" he exclaimed, his energy infectious.

David, ever the suave one, smirked as he wiped a bit of blood from his mouth, the remnants of their earlier feast. "Those are all for you three. We've already indulged," he announced, settling into his usual spot with casual ease.

Laddie and Star eagerly joined in, their eyes lighting up at the sight of the savoury pies. After a satisfying meal, Star ushered Laddie off to bed.

Star returned with a twinkle in her eye, settling into her seat beside Amber, their bond growing stronger with each passing day, akin to sisters in spirit. With a playful grin, Star casually adorned Amber's hair with a wayward plate, a whimsical touch amidst the lively atmosphere.

Meanwhile, the other boys were caught up in a whirlwind of dancing and laughter, spurred on by Paul's infectious punk tunes blaring from the boombox.

Sensing the perfect moment had arrived, Amber sat up, a glint of determination in her eyes. The sudden shift in her demeanour drew the attention of the entire room, their curiosity piqued by her declaration.

"I've decided to Drink" she announced with unwavering resolve, her voice carrying a hint of mischief and excitement. As surprised murmurs rippled through the room, Amber couldn't help but revel in the anticipation of what the night had in store.

After each boy had checked this was what she truly wanted multiple times, their apprehension palpable in the air, David finally broke the tension with a decisive command. "Marko, fetch the wine," he declared, his tone carrying a mix of solemnity and anticipation. With a nod of understanding, Marko dashed off eagerly, his footsteps echoing through the room.

Upon his return, the anticipation swelled as Marko presented a glass bottle adorned with opulent gold and sparkling gems, a testament to the significance of the moment. With a solemn nod, David passed the bottle to Amber, his expression a mixture of caution and encouragement.

With bated breath, Amber raised the ornate bottle to her lips, her heart pounding with anticipation as the thick, metallic liquid trickled down her throat. As she swallowed, a hushed silence fell over the room, broken only by the sound of her steady breaths.

Star's dismay was palpable as she retreated to her room, the weight of uncertainty lingering in the air. Yet, undeterred, Amber took two long sips of the mysterious elixir, feeling a surge of adrenaline coursing through her veins.

Amidst the chanting of her name, Amber took two dramatic sips of the mysterious concoction, feeling a surge of adrenaline rush through her veins Suddenly, she felt as invincible as a superhero on a sugar high!

With newfound vigour coursing through her body, she was whisked to her feet by Paul and Marko, who were more enthusiastic about this than a pair of toddlers in a bouncy castle. As they began to dance, Amber couldn't help but marvel at the absurdity of it all. Who knew that a fancy bottle of liquid could turn a quiet night into a wild dance party? Certainly not her, but she was more than happy to go along for the ride, even if it meant stumbling through some questionable dance moves along the way.

As Amber stirred from her slumber, a haze of newfound strength and awareness enveloped her, mingling with the lingering fatigue that weighed heavily on her limbs. A soft kiss on her cheek drew her attention, and she found herself enveloped in Paul's comforting embrace, his warmth grounding her in the moment.

Before she could fully process the sensation, Marko leaped onto the bed with all the grace of a caffeinated squirrel, his infectious laughter filling the room. "Good morning, miss half-vampire! How are you feeling?" he exclaimed, his amusement dancing in his eyes as he teased her gently.

Despite the grogginess that clung to her like a stubborn shadow, Amber couldn't help but smile at the playful banter, grateful for the light-heartedness that filled the air. With her makeshift family by her side, she knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, one laugh at a time.