#✦ — • YOU TAKE MY BREATH AND STEAL THE THINGS I KNOW • Logan and Zoey •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Cleaning up the Stragglers

As of late Logan has found himself spending more and more time with Colin’s sister-in-law. He doesn’t exactly know why ─ there’s just something very different about her and it had nothing to do with her being a werewolf. Perhaps it was her quirky nature in general. He was never accustomed to being around anyone other than those like himself and Colin. She was able to express herself in ways he’d never dreamed of being able to. It drew him to her without him even realizing it was happening.

Today she had asked to tag along with him on a hunt. He didn’t give it much thought considering she had handled herself pretty damn well when he first came to Santa Carla. This should have been a walk in the park considering it was nothing like The Rose Institute. This was just the aftermath of that mess. Cleaning up the stragglers that managed to escape and tuck themselves away in hopes their savior Stephanie would locate their whereabouts.

After using his razor wire whip to remove the head of the last remaining vampire in the building his head lifted, nose to the air as he took in the scent of blood. Blood was spilled all around them, but this scent was different ─ his nose turning his head to look Zoey straight in the eyes. He gives her a questioning look just as he realizes she shifted her body in a way to shield her side from his line of sight. Eyes narrowed at her for a moment.

“ Are you hurt? “ He quickly questions before slowly making his way over to her. If she got hurt on his watch he would never hear the end of it after giving Zoe and Colin such a hard time about allowing the women to come along when facing such threats. “ I can smell the blood, Zoey. How bad is it? Let me see … “ He almost insists and yet he manages to keep an almost stoic appearance … almost being the keyword. For the first time in his life, there is the smallest hint of worry breaking its way to the surface. It’s not something he knows how to process so it’s equally as frustrating as it is confusing to him.

Zoey's bright and cheerful expression replaced that slight hint of worry Logan might've seen before she offered a casual wave of her hand.

"It's not that bad at all!" she insisted, though she now hid her left arm behind her back. "Trust me, I thought it was one of those 'oh crap!' moments, but it's only superficial."

She kicked herself mentally for allowing this slip-up to happen in the first place. Known for her exceptional control over her wolf nature, she was also a slippy girl whose quick movements didn't allow many people to land a blow on her, let alone touch her. But she, Logan, her twin, and brother-in-law learned firsthand that these creatures from the Institute weren't your ordinary vampires. Those who remained in the aftermath of their raid proved persistently troublesome, but nothing that couldn't be taken out after several sweeps.

There'd been a moment where she and Logan separated from one another, and that was when the surprise attack happened. While one of Zoey's main abilities was to hide her aura (essentially hide the fact that she was a werewolf), this attack was just that - an absolute surprise. Both she and her vampire attacker accidentally bumped into one another, and that was when the grappling began. This vampire had its throat ripped out from some unknown assault earlier, but it was still dangerous and hostile, to where it tried to choke out Zoey, preventing her from screaming out for help. They fell to the ground, and Zoey desperately fought to pry the steel grip this monster had over her. One firmly placed kick to the groin gave her that moment of ease, but that swiftly resulted in the vampire biting down on her forearm. Her bones cracked under the fierce pressure of the bite, and she almost passed out from the pain.

In an instant, her eyes flashed yellow, and she nearly lost control of her humanity to the wolf within. Instead of doing just that, however, she threw all of her weight into her free arm, her fist itself, where she smashed her knuckles through the vampire's skull. Brain matter flew from the other side of its head, and its body went slack due to the loss of its muscles. The pull forced her to topple over the body, and she instantly freed herself from its grip. Even after she wiped her other fist clean, using the vampire's clothes as a towel of sorts, the wound on her forearm was deep. Blood oozed to the surface of her skin, and her muscles pulsated with a fiery ache. As of that moment, the dried blood had crusted over the still-opened wounds.

Now feeling guilty after thinking back to how she got injured, Zoey relented.

"I'll be fine," she insisted, like a teenager getting caught sneaking out, as she reluctantly took her arm out to show Logan the aftermath. "But we're not going back until this heals up. I don't want Zoe freaking out on me, not after she was worried to death about Colin."

 Logan’s head craned to the side when she attempted to play off the extent of her injury. His sense of smell couldn’t be matched when it came to blood and what he sensed was a lot more than just a superficial wound.

“ It’s not that bad? Then why are you hiding your arm behind you? “ Logan looked eyes with hers as if calling her out on her bluff.

Something they learned early on in training was that it didn’t matter how well you were trained or how skillful of a fighter you were, there was always a chance for the unexpected to happen. It was better to go into battle and expect the unexpected to happen. Even with his many years of training, he wasn’t untouchable. That had been made clear the first time they went into battle with these supercharged monsters.

He once believed the only reason he was still alive was because he had a promise to fulfill to Colin, but Ravenna was dead. Logan kept his promise, so what was keeping him in Santa Carla? Maybe it was the idea that he still had all these stragglers to clean up, or maybe something else. Despite the years he and Colin spent training together and hunting together, they weren’t exactly the socializing type. Admittedly Colin was different these days, even more so after Ravenna’s death. Logan on the other hand didn’t have the experiences that Colin had over the last few years. He didn’t know how to properly express himself, or how to show worry or concern for another. There was more of a brashness and coldness to his actions.

The great battle was won, and the wicked witch was defeated. But imagine him having to go back now and explain to Colin that something happened to his sister-in-law. Forget Colin, her sister would undoubtedly end him on the spot.

“ I know when people are lying just because of the way the words feel when they press into me, uncomfortable and wrong. It is more important for you to be safe than right, for the time being. “ With that, he reached out taking her arm in his hands. His grip was perhaps a little tighter than he intended it to be. “ You’re not going back. I’ll take care of the rest of them once I get you out of here and somewhere you can heal up. “ He wasn’t going to have any agreements about this. Thankfully her wolf genes were kicking in and starting to heal the damage that had been done, but not at a quick enough rate. Grabbing the bottom of his jacket he ripped off a long enough piece that he could wrap the wound. “ We’ll get this cleaned up and let your body take care of the rest. “

Zoey's round eyes grew even wider when Logan used his own jacket to dress the wound. She chewed on the inside of her lip as guilt settled in. He didn't have to do all this for her! It was such a nice jacket, too, although she was positive he wasn't concerned about fashion - just like Colin. The two of them were alike in so many ways that they could've been brothers, had she not known that humans trained the dhampirs they kidnapped to turn out the same way: emotionless killing machines for vampires and anyone who stood in their way.

She watched as Logan tended to her wounds, noticing the hard lines on his hands, and feeling the coarseness of his skin compared to hers. A part of her was compelled to take his hand into her own and give it a squeeze of comfort. Instead, she refrained from acting out, in case he took it as some kind of surprise attack.

"I can't remember the last time I was caught off guard like that," Zoey admitted sheepishly as her eyes lifted from Logan's handiwork to his face. He was quite the looker, and while she noticed this when they first met, there hadn't been time to dwell on such superficial matters. There was a witch to stake and Colin's honor to reclaim. But now that everything was calm, and Colin was in a better place, Zoey was able to get a good look at his old companion, and notice he was pretty... well... hot!

Trying hard to hold back her smile, she forced her attention back onto her hand that was getting bandaged up. "As you've probably noticed by now, I'm more of the support person. The friend, the ally, the... last resort muscles of the group, but nobody that's like... I guess, not like Zoe or Colin. Main players of the game. I didn't go through the nightmares they did - together or even before they hooked up. In a way, I was lucky compared to them, and maybe that's why they're so close. Shoot, even Zoe and our little sister are closer than me and Zoe, and we're twins. Twins are supposed to have this connection, but since we grew apart, we kinda don't."

She wasn't sure why she was revealing all of this to Logan. They were allies, yes, but not close, but here they were, alone, and her heart decided this was the place to spill her emotions. Zoe and her were fraternal twins. Marie and she had a lot of similarities when it came to clothing style and even some aspects of their personalities. Yet Zoe and Marie were super close, like mother and daughter, due to the dangers they faced years ago at the hands of Sonya and DJ X. And while she wouldn't admit it, she felt like a third wheel who simply didn't fit in with her sisters.

Now, her wound didn't even register in terms of pain, as opposed to the sobering loneliness that crept into its place. But instead of revealing any of that on the outside, she simply beamed at Logan.

“You’re good at patching up people!”

Her skin was incredibly soft against his hands. Logan was used to patching himself up but not so much when it came to others. From time to time he would notice himself glancing up to look at her, eyes lingering for a moment before returning to her arm. He didn’t have the right words for how she looked ─ but there was something very striking about her, something he’d not seen before. Whatever he was feeling in that moment he couldn’t explain it nor did he fully understand it.

With a clear of his throat, he continued to wrap her hand, bandaging it tight enough to stop the bleeding but not tightly enough to cut off her circulation. Sure he knew she would heal up on her own, but at the same time, he didn’t want the smell of her blood lingering in the air any longer than needed. With a little luck, she would heal up before he had to explain to Colin that he allowed his sister-in-law to get injured on his watch.

“ Rule number one, never let your guard down. Expect the unexpected. When you become comfortable in a situation, that’s when things go astray. “ This time when he glanced up at her he noticed the way she was looking at him and that also made him feel something he couldn’t explain. Clearing his throat once more he finally pulled his hands away from her arm.

He wasn’t sure why she decided to disclose the information about her family to him that she did, but even he could sense a sort of inessential feeling coming from her. Logan was sure that wasn’t the case when it came to her family. His earlier remarks to her about not hunting with him were harsh but that was the way he was trained to be. This is the only way he knows how to be. However, a thought did come to his mind.

“ Being a strong fighter doesn’t mean you’ve lived through something tragic. You’re the one who has to live with your choice. Everyone else will get over it, and move on, no matter what you decide. But you never will. If being a big hitter is what you want then I can train you. “ This wasn’t something Logan would just offer to anyone. “ Life is only dictated by the paths you take. If something is unpleasing to you then do something to change it, but you change it for yourself and not because of anyone else. “ Logan wouldn’t lie, she was a good fighter and a strong one, but with his help, she could be even better.

“ As far as being a main player in their eyes,  intentions are the only thing they care about. Your intentions are in the right place no matter what assistance you give. You shouldn’t want to be like any of them because then you wouldn’t be you. In the end, it’s you they care about. “ Reaching up he scratched the back of his head. He couldn’t remember the last time he actually talked this much to any one person. If she wanted his help then he would give it. Since Ravenna was gone for good he had free time on his hands. There wasn’t anywhere else he needed to be for a while. Hell from the way Colin spoke there was enough shit going on around Santa Carla to keep him busy for some time.

“ I’ve patched up enough wounds over the years that I could do it blindfolded. “

Zoey admired the handiwork done on her wound. Beneath the wrappings, the broken skin was gradually fusing itself back together. The wonders of werewolf healing factors. This drew a smile from her.

“Blindfolded work is really impressive, I say,” she pleasantly remarked to Logan’s statement. A lot of actions he did in front of her reminded her of Colin. Then again, they were not only the same species but also brothers-in-arms. They probably knew each other like the back of their hands. Only now, Zoe knew more about Colin than Logan did.

Tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, she continued smiling at Logan. “Listen, forget about the stuff I said earlier. I know my self-worth, and I know what I’m capable of doing. Sometimes I just kind of rattle off about things that I should keep to myself. I’m fine, really! But… thank you for offering your advice. I didn’t know I needed to hear it until you said it.”

Her heart raced just now when she stared at him. He didn’t have to go out of his way to make her feel better or even offer her his assistance, but he did. He made her feel like a team player. It made her think about the good ol’ days of being a teenage monster slayer alongside the Frogs, Sam, and Bridget. It even made her think about Edgar, and how much closer they’d gotten… until she messed up by telling the truth. She vowed to never do that again, overshare like that, yet she did it with Logan. Thankfully, he didn’t violently reject her like Edgar had, but she couldn’t risk ever doing that again.

Now looking about their surroundings, Zoey sniffed the air a few times, before announcing, “I can’t smell any more of those things. I think they went back into hiding for now.”

“ You should be good as new in a day or so. “ Logan remarked before finally releasing her arm back to her. Honestly, he didn’t even realize he was still hanging on to it until she spoke up.

“ That’s an example I gave about expecting the unexpected. Never know when you could be bleeding out in the dark somewhere. “ Smooth, yeah that was just smooth on his behalf. Here she was giving him what he thought to be a compliment and he still managed to somehow make it about the job. Reaching up he awkwardly scratched the back of his head. Here he had gone and made a big deal out of her arm knowing it would heal, then gave her this long lecture-like speech about self-worth. What the hell was he thinking?

But then she thanked him for that advice and just maybe it wasn’t such a bad thing for him to have done after all. He honestly was trying to help .. his people skills just weren’t the greatest. He could understand her saying about keeping things to herself because he didn’t openly share much of his own life with anyone either. “ Listen, the offer still stands anytime. “ He gestured with what looked like an attempt to smile. “ I’ve got two ears and time on my hands should you ever feel that need rise again. “

He caught himself almost reaching up to tuck the other side of her hair behind her ear to match the other but resisted that temptation. He didn’t know what it was about the woman in front of him but she made his insides stir, and in ways he’s never really felt before ─ at least in a very long time. Logan was so out of touch with the way things worked nowadays. He never really allowed himself any kind of true pleasure. It was all about the job and achieving the end goal. From a very early age, he was taught to stow away anything that didn’t pertain to killing, training, and fighting. He desperately didn’t want his cold front to put her off in any way.

Logan turned and did the same, using his sense of smell to pick up on anything that might be close to them. “ Think you’re right. This means we’ve got some time for that arm to heal up before I relocate them and WE go back after them. “ Now he knew he said earlier that he wasn’t taking her on another mission with him, but after her confession about not feeling like a team player   ─   despite what she told him about being fine, he wasn’t going to leave her hanging like that. Not while there was work that still needed to be done. “Can I take you back to wherever you’re staying? “

Zoey couldn’t recall the last time she was with a guy like this who wasn’t family: that was, completely relaxed around them. She had plenty of short-term relationships back in college, but none of those guys ever made her feel as needed as Logan did. She could’ve sworn she noted gestures and movements that might have been out of his normal range of emotions, and that alone made her happy. It couldn’t be easy - look at Colin. Zoey’s older twin was beyond a saint, being patient with him as he struggled to break through the rigorous training and torture he’d gone through as a child to allow himself to be close to someone. Was Logan trying to do the same thing? With her?

And when he mentioned returning to where the rest of the nest was with her added to the equation, she was thrilled. She could admit her faults and weaknesses, but she could be of use, and Logan took that seriously. Now, she couldn’t wait to return to the thick of things with him.

“Sure, that’d be great!” Zoey replied, trying not to sound overly enthusiastic about him taking her home. “If you don’t mind, you can take me back home. I know we were supposed to go back to Colin and Zoe’s, but I’ll shoot them a text, and let them know we’re good. I live kinda far out, right before you leave Santa Carla entirely. Actually, I live in the same area as Alan."

On their way out, Zoey explained how years ago, Alan stumbled upon a wealthy estate occupied with million-dollar homes, half of which were left unfinished, that were abandoned after the last economic crash.�� Zoey had her own house, and couldn’t be happier, though at times she felt lonely having an enormous place to herself. None of the estate homes were suited for merely one person, so she filled her house with her fandom merchandise, which included cosplay outfits, comic books, and gaming accessories. She even had a room dedicated to her hunting equipment, but for the most part, it was her own sweet home.

 Logan nodded his head after she told him where she lived. The address would be simple enough to find once they made it back to his SVU and placed it into his computer system. It was much more advanced than your normal GPS systems. It was so advanced he could zoom into a location and practically see through the windows of a house or building. Not that he was some creeper, but it helped him to locate a target with one hundred percent certainty. Reaching down not only did he grab his bag but hers as well. One was tossed over his shoulder and the other carried in hand as he led them out of the large warehouse and out into the wooded area where they parked.

Taking a look at the SUV he started to head for the back but caught himself stopping first to unlock the passenger side door and open it for Zoey. From there he headed to the back, stowed away their bags, and rounded to the driver’s side. Once inside he pulled up his computer and punched in the address. Logan didn’t care how far out she lived, his concern was getting her back to her place safe and sound and in one piece.

The drive started out quiet as he was struggling to find something to say. However, now and then he caught himself glancing over to steal a glance at her. Logan couldn’t help but feel like his body was trying to tell him something, he just couldn’t figure out what that was. There was so much confusion inside him and he couldn’t make heads or tails of it. He never felt like this until he started spending more time with Zoey and that confused him even more. He needed to go to someone who could understand all of this and that was Colin. But how to approach the subject was another story all on its own.

That awkward silence finally broke when he pulled into the driveway of their destination. “ Alive and still in one piece. “ He remarked before looking over to her again. How stupid did he feel that the entire drive back to her place had been spent in silence because his head was going a mile a minute? He thought about jumping out to go open her door for her, but the idea made him feel silly. Would she want someone opening doors for her like she couldn’t do it for herself? She already made it clear earlier on that she didn’t like people making a fuss over her. So he settled for the next best thing. “ I’ll grab your bag and get it inside for you. “

While the ride home proved quiet, Zoey found it rather enjoyable. Logan proved to be quite the capable driver, considering how this part of California was often listed as having some of the worst traffic in the state, if not the country. For the first time in a while, she was able to admire the beauty that Santa Carla had to offer. One of these days, she vowed to take a nice bike ride through the redwoods, or even take a ride on the famous coastal train tracks. Being alone with Logan wasn’t bad at all. It was... nice.

Every once in a while, when she dared to take a chance, she threw a glance at Logan, before focusing back at the scenery once more. He really had a handsome profile. Really, everything about him was good-looking, just like Colin. From what she read, dhampirs were supposed to be ugly, but so far, she had yet to meet any that were described as such. Then again, not everything written in the books was true.

‘Don’t get your hopes up,’ she admonished herself as the familiar view of the estates came into view, followed by Logan’s arrival announcement. She couldn’t help but smile when he offered to take her bag for her. Well, that was awfully courteous of him. Even with his strict upbringing, she thought he was very much a gentleman.

“Well, thank you. That’s sweet. I’ll unlock the front door for us, then,” she said, as she climbed out of the car, and skipped ahead to the cobblestone walkway of her home. Her shoulder-length hair bounced off her shoulders with each step she took. She even twirled once, a cheerful expression visible on her face, by the time she reached the front door. No key was produced, as she had a fingerprint reader beside the doorknob. Upon analyzing her fingerprint, a small beep was heard, followed by a loud click, then the door opened.

“C’mon in!” Zoey announced as she stepped into her home. “Just take your shoes off by the mat!”

The home was spacious, but also occupied with numerous fandom merchandise. Star Wars and Star Trek model ships hung in the corners of the ceilings and hallways. Standing by her closet, where her AI virtual assistant hung on the wall, she said, “Computer! Notifications!”

As the AI rattled off the various deliveries that arrived at the post office in town that awaited pick-up, she turned to Logan. “Thanks again. Hey, do you wanna stay for dinner? Something to drink? How about a tour of the house or the estate?”

Once she was out of the SUV he closed the door behind her. Logan couldn’t help but stand there and just watch her for a few moments as she so cheerfully bounced her way up to the front door of the house to unlock the door. When he managed to pull his eyes away from her he scanned the neighborhood they were in. For the most part, it seemed PEACEFUL enough. He could understand why she would pick a location like this to stay at. Honestly, both this place and Colin’s home beat the hell out of the warehouse he was staying at.

Soon enough he was following behind her with her weapons bag over his shoulder. Just because he had a strict upbringing didn’t mean he had no MANNERS. He found himself rather impressed by the fingerprint reader attached to her door. It was the same kind of device he used in the warehouse. But when it came to a house with windows it really only helped to keep the honest ones out. If someone really wanted inside a window would be the EASIEST route.

“ Might want to think about getting some bars installed on the windows. “ Logan remarked as he stepped inside and placed her bag down on the floor beside the door. Then it dawned on him what he actually said. “ Sorry about that. It’s just out of habit for me to examine the security of any place I enter. “ Was that the right thing to say? Hopefully, he hadn’t come off as rude with the suggestion.

Logan looked down at his shoes and then back to her. While EXTREMELY confused by the request his face remained stoic. He wasn’t sure if this was some strange custom or what the meaning behind it was but he respected her wishes and removed both his shoes and placed them down on the mat.

He walked inside following a little distance behind her. His hands were tucked away inside the pockets of his duster. It seemed like such a spacious place for one single person to reside. Then again when it came to storing weapons and things of that nature one could NEVER have enough room. More confusion hit him because he couldn’t understand why someone needed so many trinkets hanging from their ceilings. She really did seem to enjoy her job. Not that he didn’t enjoy his. There was nothing he loved more than wiping evil bastards from the planet.

“ Don’t mention it. “ He spoke with a nod of his head. Giving her a ride home was the least he could do after being CARELESS enough to allow her to get bitten. Even more, confusion bubbled inside his head when she asked him several different questions all at once. “ Is it dinner, drinks, or a tour? “ Maybe she was asking if he would like all three? “ If you don’t mind I could use a drink. “ It was unusual for his throat to become this dry so quickly. It normally only happened when he had to do a feeding but it was still long before that time was due.

Zoey couldn't help but agree with his security suggestion. Since the housing economy tanked, the property was abandoned - still, the occasional wanderers did come about every so often. Regardless, she would keep the window bars in mind.

"Duly noted!" she told him. "Lemme grab that drink for you."

She ventured into the kitchen and the sensor lights turned on instantly. High school photos of herself, along with the Frog Brothers, and Sam Emerson, were plastered on the refrigerator door. Those were certainly the good old days.

She paused briefly to stare at one photo in particular, of just herself and Edgar, once again reflecting on days gone by. Her mind wandered a bit, which then led her to think about what awaited her at the post office, before she snapped back to reality, remembering that Logan was waiting for her. She fetched a glass cup from the cabinet and then got the water.

Perhaps Logan wanted some blood? After all, he was part vampire. Shoot, she should've asked him. Oh, wait! She had some emergency blood in the back of the fridge for the kids in case of emergencies for the likes of Luke, Chanel, and Molly.

"Just a sec!" she hollered, as she set the glass of water on the counter. She reached into the back of the fridge and rummaged past the steaks and pork chops she'd planned on eating later that night until she grabbed a hold of the blood flasks. They were sealed containers, extra blood for whenever the kiddos needed nourishment. With that in hand, she closed the fridge, and with the container in one hand, and the glass of water in the other, she hurried back to Logan. She couldn't help but look him up and down. Even with a stern face, he was such a hunk. She wondered what he looked like when he relaxed, but could he ever let his guard down? Probably not, if he was like Colin. What a shame.

"Here ya go," she announced happily. "You got water and blood! Wasn't sure which one you wanted, sooo, you have both. We look out for each other in this neighborhood. And if you want, feel free to have a seat at the counter or in the living room. Don't worry about making a mess. The kids like to hang out here from time to time, so you might see stains on the floors or on the couches. You know, blood's a tricky stain to remove."

Logan remained where he was standing but couldn't help but take a look around him. Knowing everything about his surroundings was a habit instilled in him. He was constantly assessing the people and objects around him, taking note of any potential threats or opportunities. It had become instinctive for him, and he relied on it to protect himself and others and to make sure he was always one step ahead. Right now he was trying diligently to bury that side of himself, especially after suggesting bars on the windows.

When Zoey disappeared out of sight he moved across the room and took a seat on one of the chairs. He sat forward with his elbows resting on his knees and his hands clasped together in front of him. He waited nervously, his eyes darting around the room as he listened for any sound of Zoey's return. He was unsure of what to expect, and his mind raced with questions and possibilities.

Something had come over him and he was determined to figure it out. Whatever was transpiring inside of him was throwing him off his game. He had felt a shift in his perspective, and he was curious to explore why he had been feeling this way ─ he wanted to find the root cause and investigate his own motivations to gain a better understanding of himself. Eager to find out how his innermost thoughts and emotions were influencing his behavior he knew he would have to seek out Colin for help.

Being a well-trained dhampir made it difficult to ask anyone for help. He knew Colin must have felt the same way. The two of them shared a long history together so he hoped that would make things easier for himself.

He snapped himself out of thought when he heard her voice calling out to him. " You need help with anything? " Was that what he should have asked? A hand scratched the back of his neck. This was her house. The place she was more than comfortable in. Of course, she didn't need his help. Maybe he was still thinking about her arm and the sensation he felt when he first smelled her blood from the injury she received. Was he bewitched ─ was he under some kind of spell, captivated by her presence and warmth? He quickly shook these thoughts away and tried to focus on the present moment.

Logan's eyes rose to hers when she presented him with two glasses instead of one. He stood and took both glasses from her. " Thank you, either would have been fine. " Her remarks about sitting at the counter or in the living room caused him to shift from the spot he currently had been seated. The living room was just around the corner and seemed the most suitable option. Once inside he found himself another spot to sit and placed his glasses on the coffee table in front of him. " Hydrogen Peroxide. " He commented before he could catch himself. " Best to catch it while it's still fresh though. "

Great time for a subject change. " So tell me more about you and your family. Have you been here as long as the others? I know Colin and his family left for a while before returning. "

Zoey wanted to talk about how she enjoyed the many times she ripped out the carpets and shopped online for new flooring and interior decoration, but then Logan shifted to the next subject: family. She didn't want to make things awkward, so she went along with the change of subject.

"No, I actually came back to Santa Carla only a few years ago." She settled next to Logan, but didn't sit too close, not wanting to make him uncomfortable in case boundaries were an issue for him like it once was for Colin. When she was comfortable, she folded her hands on her knees and went on to say, "I was adopted by a nice family who happened to be werewolves, and they knew what I was. We traveled around the country for a while, and as a teenager, we wound up living here. That's when I met the Frog Brothers and Sam Emerson, their best friend. We all hung out for a year or two, then I moved again."

She shrugged casually, glossing over much of her history with the boys, because that wasn't the focus of Logan's question, even though a lot of life-changing events happened.

"A few years after I graduated from college, I got in touch with my biological sisters through the internet, and that's when I came back here, where I discovered I had more family. But even before I came back to Santa Carla, I'd been living nearby in San Cazador, where I'd been also working, helping out Edgar and Alan with stuff - not to mention fighting vampires, selling books, picking up supernatural goodies…"

Zoey grinned sheepishly. "I've been around here and there, yeah, but it's only been within the past few years that I've permanently settled. Alan came upon this abandoned estate that developers dropped, due to a major housing market crash. That's why you see half of the mansions just sitting here looking pretty but empty, and the others  half finished."

She flashed him a curious look. No matter how many times she stared at him, she couldn't believe what a handsome man he was. It should be a crime to look so good as he did. "If you're ever feeling lonely, there's plenty of room for you here to move into the neighborhood. Right now, it's only me, Alan, Jesse, and Molly."

Logan took a few sips from the glass of blood before sitting it on the table in front of them. He had to lower his head a moment because he could feel his eyes shifting in color. It was as if they were reflecting his ever-changing emotions, a kaleidoscope of colors that mirrored his inner turmoil. He had always been aware of his unique ability to perceive the world differently, but this sudden shift in eye color was something entirely new. As he stared into the depths of his glass, he pondered the implications of this transformation. Could it be a sign of some hidden power awakening within him? Or perhaps it was merely a manifestation of his heightened sensitivity to the woman beside him. Whatever the reason, Logan knew he had to embrace this change and explore its potential.

" San Cazador? Isn't there where that whole mess went down with the vampire raves? " Logan questioned. He was well-informed about the matter and would have personally tackled it if he hadn't been fully engrossed in his search for Ravenna. The online world was abuzz at that time with talk of the ultimate rave. If only he had been aware back then that DJ X was responsible for the torment inflicted upon Zoe and Colin, he would have unquestionably been present, no doubt about it.

" Family tends to do that to people. " Perhaps that was the reason why after all these years Logan had never settled or even had the desire to do so. Colin was the closest thing he ever had when it came to family. Somehow the woman sitting beside him made him not want to leave Santa Carla anytime soon. The way she looked at him with understanding eyes and the warmth of her presence made him realize that home wasn't a place, but maybe a feeling.

He pondered deeply over the offer she had just presented. He desired to closely monitor her safety, ensuring that no harm befell her. By taking up residence in one of the unoccupied houses, he could accomplish that without giving himself away. " I might take you up on that. " He replied and eventually glanced back at her. By this time his eyes had returned to their usual color. Logan extended his hand to grab his beverage again, but this time he opted for the water.

" If we going to be doing more clean up together and some sparing training, it might be easier if I was staying a little closer. "

Zoey was content watching Logan think all day. He was one of those mysteries wrapped in an enigma type of guy, someone whose layers she wanted to slowly peel back, so she could learn more about him. There weren't too many guys she wanted to stare at, especially ones who made her heart flutter, and not stare in a creepy possessive way, but simply to find a sense of peace in that person--comfortable, just being in their presence. Being near him made her feel good, period.

So when he decided to take her up on her offer of moving into one of the houses, Zoey beamed with delight that she exploded.

"Ohh, I agree, one hundred percent!"

Joyfully she clapped her hands and exclaimed, "Welcome to the neighborhood, neighbor!"

Almost immediately, she quieted down and offered him a toothy smile. "Sorry," she apologized rather sheepishly. "I'm just so excited to have another friend come live with us! It won't be as lonely around here! And as much as I love Alan, his time in the sunlight is limited, and at night, he buries himself with work and stuff, so… it'll be nice to have another adult to talk to."

Loneliness. There was that ugly word again. Not just within her family, but her friends, too. Edgar practically disappeared after he left Santa Carla with Dean, and Alan isolated himself from his work. As much as she adored having the kids come around, it wasn't the same as, well, what she was doing right here with Logan. No, he wasn't a chatterbox, but at least he acknowledged her presence and made her feel alive.

Now placing a hand on his arm, Zoey scooted closer, and with her round, brown eyes peering at him, she said, "You have no idea how much it means to me to have you closer, Logan. Thank you."

Logan had always been a reserved and introverted individual, preferring the solace of his own thoughts over the complexities of romantic relationships. He was content with his solitary existence, finding comfort in the predictable patterns of his daily routine. But all that seemed to change when he was near Zoey. She possessed an enchanting combination of confidence, intelligence, and a captivating smile that could light up even the darkest corners of Logan's world. Her gaze held a warmth and curiosity that he had never experienced before. It was as if she saw through his guarded exterior, effortlessly unraveling the layers he had spent years carefully constructing.

This newfound attention both thrilled and unnerved Logan. He couldn't help but question why someone like Zoey would be interested in him. Insecurities began to creep into his mind, whispering doubts about his worthiness and ability to reciprocate her affection.

The mention of Alan made him remember the others who lived in the neighborhood as well. His training as a vampire hunter had instilled in him a deep-rooted belief that all vampires were evil, bloodthirsty beings that needed to be eradicated. But some vampires possessed an unusual sense of compassion and empathy, traits that seemed incompatible with the monstrous reputation vampires carried. Not all vampires were equal nor did they all deserve to be eradicated. The same could be said for half-vampires. " Don't mention it. It just seems to make sense. I think it would make things a little easier. "

As her fingertips made contact with his arm, a surge of electricity seemed to pass through him. It was as if an invisible connection had been established, transcending the boundaries of mere physical touch. The moment their eyes met, a remarkable transformation occurred. His once ordinary brown eyes, which had always blended seamlessly into the background, now shimmered with an enchanting shade of blue. It was a hue that held within it a captivating depth, like the vast expanse of an ocean on a cloudless day. Again something that only seemed to happen when he was with her. In that instant, it became clear that there was something extraordinary about their connection. Something inexplicable and otherworldly. It was as if she possessed the power to unlock hidden facets of his being, revealing a side of him he never knew existed.

Taking a deep breath, he willed his eyes to soften and tried to redirect his focus elsewhere. But no matter how hard he tried, Logan couldn't shake off the overwhelming rush of emotions that had consumed him in that moment. His mind replayed their conversation, dissecting every word and gesture, searching for clues as to why he had reacted so strongly. He couldn't deny the undeniable connection he felt with her, but it  - scared - him having all these strange and unusual feelings. As Logan continued to avoid her gaze, a whirlwind of thoughts swirled through his mind.

" You thank me now but once I get moved in you might regret it later. " His attempt at trying to change attention from what had just transpired.

The moment Logan's eyes changed color, Zoey was left breathless. It was a beautiful sight to behold. The color was intense and vivid. No photo or portrait could do it justice. Were all dhampirs capable of such a feat? She couldn't recall seeing Colin, her brother-in-law, ever doing that in front of her before. Her sister never mentioned it before - or if she had, Zoey couldn't remember it off the top of her head.

Her fingertips tingled from where she'd last touched him as she slowly took her hand back. Energy hummed between them, and her heart raced in her chest. It'd been a long time since she behaved this way about any one person, and it left her feeling so young again, so… lucky.

Upon hearing Logan's words, Zoey couldn't help but giggle. This broke the tension between them. No longer would the neighborhood feel quite so empty with Logan moving in.

"I doubt that," she said with a smile. She thought about playfully tapping him again, but she didn't want to push another awkward moment so soon. She wanted to take it slow. Having him live among them was a great achievement on its own.

Naturally, she'd have to give Alan a heads-up about the situation. Molly would no doubt be thrilled to have a handsome face so close to them. The girl made no bones about whom she liked in a superficial sense.

"And listen," Zoey added gently. "No matter what, just know that you've got a great support system here. We're all family, and we stick together. You won't have to feel so guarded. We take care of each other in this neighborhood."

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Shot Through the Heart

“ Colin, I hate to just show up like this but if you’ve got some time I need to talk with you. ”

Colin, who’d been writing on a chalkboard, placed his writing instrument down, and turned to see his long-time friend and ally at the garage doorway. With a nod, he turned to his pupil, Molly.

“Early lunch... but before you go,” Colin said as he gestured to the newcomer. “I want you to meet another dhampir. This is Logan Blake, and he was raised in the same hunters-slayers guild as I when we were children. Logan, this is my student, Molly Frog. She is the daughter of Alan Frog, and the niece of Edgar Frog."

Molly offered a shy wave, and it was accompanied by the appearance of rosy cheeks.

“Hi, Mr. Blake,” she greeted almost timidly, even though those who knew her best, knew she was anything BUT shy. She managed to snap out of her daze, where she snatched her phone off her desk, and headed inside, where her lunch awaited.

Once the door closed, Colin’s demeanor shifted to a much more serious nature.

“What’s going on? Is it another vampire attack?”

 Logan hated to barge in unannounced and even more so when Colin was in training with the younger members of Santa Carla. A lot was stirring around inside his head and it’s made him extremely restless. There was no one else like him, no one else who had gone through the things that he’d been through other than Colin. At one point he knew Colin went through this same term oil, so who better for him to come to for advice and help?

He nodded his head at the young dhampire who addressed him. “ Listen and learn everything you can from this one. He’ll be able to teach you things you won’t learn anywhere else. “ He caught himself about to go on a long rant about the importance of training and decided to cut it off there. It was just something branded into him that came naturally, but it wasn’t his place. Molly was Colin’s student, not his.

“ No, no nothing like that. “ He remarked after she made her way inside. He wasn’t even thinking when he rushed over without so much as a call. Logan wasn’t a very social person and only really popped up when he had vital information to share.

He knew this was going to sound intrusive and out of the blue but again his social skills weren’t the greatest. Walking over he took a seat on the edge of the desk where the girl had been sitting. “ You and your wife, you’ve been together for a long time now. “ This was more a statement than a question. It was him struggling to get to his point.

“ What all went on inside you when you met her? “ That was the best way he could think to ask a question such as that. “ We’re trained NOT to feel, but clearly you felt something and how did you even know what that something was? “ One thing dhampirs were known for was being blunt and to the point.

Colin took to leaning against his teaching desk, just as Logan settled against Molly’s. While he was relieved to hear the conversation wasn’t about vampires, his query over what this could be about continued stirred. The death of his tormentor opened his humanity after it’d been sealed away for decades. Being able to smile, and feel genuinely “good” all around was a gradual process that became easier every day. Having Zoe at his side, never giving up on him, made all the difference in the world. He couldn’t have made it this far in life without her or the man before him. He also appreciated the statement Logan made about him to AJ and Molly. It was difficult to get dhampirs to stick together, but if these kids could grow up away from a harsh environment like he and Logan had, then it was a promising road ahead.

“Confusion,” Colin admitted as he relaxed his arms over his chest. “Like you said, we weren’t supposed to feel. It was hammered relentlessly into us to keep our emotions in check because it makes ‘reading’ us difficult for our opponents. Humans see us as things to control, to push around, and often, as lowly as vampires. Vampires see us as traitors to our full-blooded race. Zoe saw past that, and remained at my side, no matter how indifferent I acted around her. The longer we worked together, the more my curiosity for her grew.”

Even back then, he’d thought Zoe was stunning and resourceful, someone who’d never quit fighting for what she believed in, but his training prevented him from expressing himself. Without even realizing it, he’d gone out of his way to ensure her safety, even if it wasn’t deemed necessary. He couldn’t let anything happen to her, not while he was around. Again, more confusion in his heart and mind, but fortunately, Zoe granted him patience and space, as their relationship slowly developed beyond fighting companions and friendship.

“It was during one of our bouts against Sonya and DJ X did I just looked at her,” Colin reflected, “and she was bruised and cut up. I didn’t fair any better looking, but I had to spare her a glance, and I found myself thinking about a future with her. I couldn’t fathom wanting to be with anyone else but her and I decided there and then that I would build a future with her.”

Logan valued Colin’s friendship. Over the many long years of growing up together as children and then being put through the same harsh training together, it sort of bonded them like brothers. Over all those years Colin was the only person he trusted, the only person he ever allowed to remain in his life because they were taught that any kind of relationship was a detachment from their mission. It always had to be about the mission and nothing else. He could have taken on Ravenna and her ghouls on his own, but because of that brotherly bond and knowing the circumstances behind it, Colin was the first person he came to with the news.

Confusion, well he certainly had an entire brain full of that. “ So basically you started out working together? Doing jobs together? “ Okay, he had that part down. Though he didn’t want to admit that to Colin. He wasn’t exactly sure how he would take the news that he had been taking his sister-in-law on vampire hunts with him. Not to mention he saw firsthand how protective Zoe was of her family. If it was something Zoey wanted her family to know then she would be the one to inform them of that.

Yeah, he would say he had that part down as well ─ at least a part of it. He wasn’t actually sure what went through him when he turned around and saw Zoey bleeding, but he did know from somewhere deep there was this strong urge inside him to protect her. Then he blamed himself for putting her in such a situation, only to turn around and agree to continue taking her along with him. Talk about confusion ...

He didn’t know what he was feeling but it felt like someone released an inferno inside his head. “ So you’re saying it just happened on its own? Like something just triggered? There wasn’t anything special you had to do, like flip some magical switch? “ Yeah, Logan knew all about the humanity switch for vampires. He just didn’t think he and Colin had that same kind of switch. Or maybe they did? Maybe it had been something about Zoe that made it start malfunctioning and then the end of Ravenna completely short-circuited it?  Despite all this term oil inside his brain his features didn’t betray all those thoughts running back and forth in his brain. He looked as composed as ever.

Colin could sense the apprehension. It came from years of knowing the other dhampir before him and having worked alongside him, through thick and thin. He understood what clicked, and what didn’t. This explanation wasn’t clicking, and he hadn’t expected it to - at least, not instantly. It reminded him of how he tried to connect with Tatum when she was starting to talk and ask questions like any child would. Colin struggled to speak to her at such a level to which she’d understand him, and thankfully, Zoe guided him through the process. Logan was NOT a child by any means, but trying to re-arrange his manner of explanation simply made him reflect on those days gone by.

“Zoe wouldn’t give up,” Colin stated. “She had her strengths and weaknesses, and the more I worked alongside her, the more curious it made me want to learn more about her. She wasn’t like the others we grew up with. She was emotional. Easily so, but it fascinated me, her expressive nature and her strength. We dhampirs, we’ve learned not to allow ourselves to be as such when it comes to feelings, yet she, as a werewolf, did the opposite. Werewolves, their strengths lie in their hearts, and their feelings. So yes, my interest in her came naturally. It wasn’t expected, and that’s not a negative, either.”

Colin found himself smiling gently the more he talked about Zoe. She never quit on him, and she never allowed him to give up, either. She was his rock, his anchor, his everything.

“It sounds like you are fascinated with someone,” Colin stated as he relaxed his arms and rested his hands on the edge of his desk.

 If Logan was sitting at the desk instead of on it he would probably bang his forehead against it. Frustration, that wasn’t even the word for what he was feeling. He even swore he felt that color change within his eyes for a split second. It was in no way because of Colin, it was because Logan was having a hard time trying to jigsaw puzzle Colin’s words together enough so that he could understand them. Colin was so much better with his words than he used to be, but the things Colin said to him were like a foreign language.

On the other shoe, everything he asked and the way he asked most likely sounded just as foreign to Colin. But then when he spoke up for the second time, the things he was saying started making a little more sense to him. Everything he said about Zoe, he could see those same things in her sister. Her being emotional, her strength, her expressive nature. Maybe this was why he felt so drawn to her, she was everything he had been taught not to be. Even now with just a little distance between them, it was infuriating not being around her.

Change, like healing, takes time. Reprogramming his way of thinking so that he could feel things more naturally was going to take time. It wasn’t something he was going to be able to push.

If he didn’t know Colin the way he did he would swear the man in front of him was an imposter. Honestly, as long as he’s known this man this was the first time he had ever seen him smile. That smile had been triggered only by him talking and thinking about his wife. It was that very thing Logan wanted for himself.

Now the awkward boot dropped. He hoped he was asking all of this in a way that wouldn’t have made him stick out like a sore thumb. “ Me? We know I’m not programmed like that, Colin. “ He tried to counterclaim but it was clear Colin already saw straight through that. His eyes dropped a moment then lifted back because one thing he couldn’t do was lie to the man who was like a brother to him. “ There’s something there, I just don’t know what it is. You’re the only one I knew who could help me sort through it and figure it out.”

“They breach through our shields without having to try,” Colin explained as his eyes filled with warmth and softened. “They treat us like anybody else, as equals. I can’t think of anybody more selfless and compassionate.”

There was no hiding the fact that he knew that Logan had more than just a mere passing interest in his wife’s twin sister. It was the reason why he used “they” to refer to the two women in the first place.

“It wasn’t something that happened overnight,” Colin continued. “It was a gradual process, and it was one I found myself learning as it developed. It was an eye-opening experience, and I had nobody else to talk to about any of it. I had Zoe, of course, but it’s different when it’s talking to someone who comes from the same background, someone you grew up with.”

Colin was relieved that Logan had come to him about this. Not that he didn’t think this wouldn’t happen. He would’ve been surprised otherwise. Then again, every single dhampir among them was different: AJ had his abilities suppressed by magic, while Molly was easily the most emotionally expressive of them all. None of them could be typecast as a textbook case half-vampire.

Never one to beat around the bush, Colin went forward by asking, “Have you engaged in intercourse since you and I last traveled together?”

That sort of activity never interested him, before the vampire witch forced that decision upon him as a teenager. Even after that attack, he had no interest in such a thing, until Zoe became a very important person in his life. He only asked, because of what he knew about Zoey’s personal life (not that he personally asked, but that Zoey was very open about her sexual life), she had plenty of partners before moving back to Santa Carla. Whether they were romance or… something else, he wasn’t exactly sure.

How was it possible that anyone could breach such shields when they were designed and trained in such a way that no one was able to do that? And yet it was being done and without any effort being placed behind it? If he was hearing this from anyone other than Colin he would swear they were trying to sell him a false bill of goods.

Logan hated the idea of a gradual process. Surely it was going to be one that made him lose his mind. “ How did you know what you were and weren’t supposed to do? “ He paused and shook his head. “ I feel like a royal pain in the ass here 'cause I’m just throwing you one question right after another. But that’s why I came to you. She opened up to me about a few things a few nights ago. I can’t explain it other than what you mentioned about getting that feeling that you need to protect them. I could barely drag myself here much less talk to her about it when I’m not even sure what it is myself. “

As strange as it sounded he almost felt like something inside him was malfunctioning or even broken. Time after time for years he’s had countless vampires who tried to get inside his head, ones like Ravenna who had failed in their attempts but here he sat knowing that all it took was a soft-spoken werewolf to change that. If she wasn’t a part of Colin’s family he’d be insistent that she was using some form of magic on him.

Logan’s brow shot up at Colin’s question. At first, he thought about giving a not-so-accurate answer but Colin was every bit as good at reading a lie as he was. There was no need to beat around the bush. “ No .. “ The answer straight forward. “ I kept myself busy, never had time to even stop to think about something like that. It was never part of the mission. “

He almost looked confused over the question. “ Is it something I need to do? Is that like the all-knowing spark that triggers everything? “ The very thought made him a little uneasy. The last he can remember engaging in such an act was in his teen years. He wasn’t even sure if his body still functioned like that anymore. It felt like he was going in circles. The more answers Colin gave him the more questions he seemed to have. “ Maybe this whole thing is a bad idea, Colin. You know how we can get, what if I unknowingly hurt her? Or if I say or do something that hurts her? “

“Love isn’t supposed to be easy and straightforward,” Colin told him. “It’s not something we’re supposed to figure out right away. Some people think it is, and they rush into it, only to find out it’s not what they fantasized it to be, and wind up getting their hearts broken. Sometimes it takes one of you, or both of you, getting hurt to realize that neither of you is the for the other. It has been a while since I’ve seen Zoey with anybody serious, so I can’t be certain how she’ll be with you, but give it time. I have no doubt you will know what to do.”

Colin trusted Logan with his life. The last thing he wanted to see was Zoey get hurt, and he did not doubt that Logan had any intentions of purposely doing so with his sister-in-law. If things didn’t work out between them, then there were other people out there for the two of them. It’d be interesting if they eventually wound up a couple.

“Do you know enough about Santa Carla or the cities around here to possibly ask Zoey out on a date?” Colin asked. “Or knowing her, she might ask you out. She’s a straightforward kind of woman, so be prepared.”

Listening to himself, to the words he expressed to Logan still amazed him. It didn't sound like him. He wouldn't have believed it six months ago, yet it was all because of his freedom from the shackles of his imprisonment of his own mental imprisonment. It was thanks to Logan that he, along with his wife and sister-in-law could put that nightmare to rest once and for all. The very least he could do was assist Logan with matters of the heart.

" I'm glad someone has a little faith in me because I sure don't. " Logan couldn't be blamed for feeling the way he did. With his upbringing and training, there was no room in his life for personal matters such as this. It had taken Colin years to come as far as he had in breaking that mindset that had been distilled into them. But he trusted Colin and if Colin said things would eventually fall into place then he believed him. That didn't mean he still didn't wish there was some magical hidden button he could flip so that he could figure it all out now.

He never saw himself or even thought something like this was a possibility for him. The same could be said about Colin but it had happened and Colin was living proof that they could change their programming. It was an intriguing thought but also one that was sort of scary and there were very few if any things he feared.

" Did you really just ask me to ask her out on a date? Someone who has never gone on a date a day in his life? " Now, he wasn't oblivious to what a date was and what it entailed but the fact remained the same ─ it's not something he's ever done before. Then he couldn't help but laugh at Colin's next statement. " I sort of noticed that when I gave her a ride home the other day. She's unlike any other person I've ever talked to. " He believed that how open she was and how straightforward she was, was one of the reasons why he wanted to know more about her.

" Oh while we're on the subject of Zoey. " Logan turned to face him. " I don't want to step out of place or betray her trust but she said something to me the other night that's been picking at my bones ever since. " He admitted. " Maybe you could have a talk with your wife about it. Zoey sort of feels like a third wheel like the sister left out. I know it's not my place to be saying anything and I know a lot has been going on. Just maybe if they were aware of how she was feeling then maybe something could be done before that feeling leaves a scar that won't go away. "

Colin listened carefully to Logan’s explanation about Zoey and her sisters. In a way, he understood the situation. While learning that his wife was a twin was a surprise to them all, it was known for years that she and Marie were much closer because they’d known each other much longer, and endured much more together. Zoey came into the picture much later in their lives. There would certainly be plenty of opportunities for all the girls to bond, but he agreed to speak to Zoe and Marie about their sister’s feelings. It would probably do all three girls to spend as much time with Judas, their little brother as well. Being an only child, Colin had no idea what it was like to have sibling relations, but he could only imagine what it was like to feel left out by a brother or sister, intentionally or not.

But now, to bring the focus back to Logan and his potential future with Zoey. Yet before he could utter a word, his phone vibrated in his back pocket. Taking out his smartphone, he saw it was none other than the woman they were speaking about.

Was this the universe working in their favor? A small smile graced his features. Talk about luck.

Turning so that his profile faced Logan, Colin answered the call. “Yes?”

“Hey, Colin? Mind if I borrow that old publication written by that dhampir warlord from your war room? The Book O’Neer received this funky book about dhampirs that mentioned this guy, and I wanted to do some cross-referencing.”

After a brief side-glance to Logan, Colin replied, “On one condition. I’d like you to tell me what you think about another dhampir so far since he’s arrived: Logan.”

Might as well get the ball rolling between those two, so why not now?

Colin clicked the speaker button and set the phone down on his desk.

“Wait, Logan? Okay… Well, besides being amazing? He’s treated me fantastic! Always looking out for me. Reminds me a lot of you: brave and knows his stuff. A straightforward kinda guy. He’s always honest with me, and I like that a lot. And between you and me? He’s hot, especially his eyes - but I know, I know, you’re not into that stuff. Anyway, it’s not like he’s into me, right? I’m probably too much of a chatterbox. He probably wants someone who dresses more like someone their age–”

Again Logan's intentions were not to step on any toes, cross any lines, and definitely not betray Zoey's trust since she confided in him. His intentions were true because from day one of meeting Colin's family he could sense how close they were. He could also see that no matter how many odds were stacked against them they were willing to fight for that family. He saw the look of hurt in Zoey's eyes even after she tried to convince him that she was fine. Additionally, he did not want Zoey to feel like she was an outcast, especially if the problem was simply a lack of communication. Even though she had denied his offer to help he still possessed a certain obligation to her. Like Colin said earlier, when you see that certain look in their eyes and then something snaps, all you want to do is protect them from that moment on. Logan felt exactly the same way about Zoey.

Logan slouched on the edge of the desk when Colin's phone rang. He couldn't be disappointed. He was damn proud of his brother-in-arms for the work he did in this area. Colin Bryce was no longer the same person he knew years ago. It was through the love of his family that he broke through all those years of training that made them seem soulless.

When Colin turned to him and smiled, his brow arched. There was only one thing he could conclude from Colin's devious look ─ he was up to something.

It caused Logan to stand from where he was sitting ─ his mouth nearly dropping when Colin posed a direct question about him. It was then placed on the speaker so that he could hear Zoey on the other end.

The moment he heard her say that he was amazing he stepped closer to the phone. However, in doing so his feet clipped the leg of the desk chair causing it to screech as it moved briefly against the floor. His hand instantly raised to cover his mouth. By the time the words 'he's hot' came through the phone, he practically hovered over it. Instantly he felt that strange sensation inside his chest again. When she made those last remarks his head turned to Colin and he began making all kinds of motions for Colin to counter what she had just said. However, when Colin just stood there and smiled at him he knew Colin would make him do it.

Picking up Colin's phone, he moved across the room a few steps. He was sure she could hear all the static from his trembling hands through the microphone. A clear of his throat came as he pieced together his thoughts. " Maybe you should let me be the judge of that. What would you think if I invited you to dinner at my place tomorrow? " Okay, so that was still a date. He wasn't familiar with Santa Carla enough to pick out an ideal spot to take her. Dinner at his place would still count as a date, right?

As soon as Logan made his move, Colin did the honorable gesture: he turned away and proceeded to leave the garage, to give his fellow brother-in-arms privacy. The faint smile on his face hadn't slipped away.

His plan worked. Was there a bit of pride over what he did? Certainly. He wanted Logan to enjoy his own happiness with that special someone. Sure, not everyone needed a partner. There were naturally loners out there, but he knew Logan, and he knew that Logan and Zoey could be a fine pair if they spent enough time together.

Colin would spend a few minutes meandering about the kitchen and living room, while Logan figured out his plans with Zoey. Once the door closed behind him, Zoey's voice could be heard from the phone.

"Logan!! You heard all that, huh? Whew! Shoot! Um… dinner?!"

After a string of awkward throat clearing, there was a bit of pause. What now? The secret was out - well, it wasn't exactly a BIG secret, but she wasn't ready to let Logan know it - too late, now. But not wanting to keep him in suspense, she offered an enthusiastic, "You know what? That'd be great! I'd love that! Now, are we talking about formal attire? Or is this gonna be a casual thing? Something in the middle?"

She was nervous, almost like she was dating for the very first time. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach. Oh no, was she going to throw up? If Logan could see her, he'd see her clutching her tummy, and pressing her knees together, willing herself not to puke. Good thing this was not a video call! She was in the backroom of the Book O'Neer, seated on a stool, reading an old Elfquest paperback novel, with the aforementioned dhampir book beside it, along with a can of soda, and a half-eaten sandwich. She was grateful that she had this room all to herself at that moment - her imagination, her goofiness, her knowledge of the supernatural and the unknown, and now her love life was in full center.

"You know something?" she pressed on. A smile bloomed on her face. "I'm glad you were with Colin when I called. I probably should've said something earlier about… well… you. Just wasn't sure how to say it. Didn't wanna scare you off, but I promise to take things slow, okay?"

The absolute last thing she wanted to have happen, was another "Edgar incident."

Baby steps, Zoey. Baby steps.

"So yeah, dinner at your place," she agreed. Okay, Zoey, she advised herself. Don't talk your head off! He's not a talker. Have a nice balance of conversation between the two of you. "I just know this is going to be a fun date…!"

Logan's eyes widened when he saw Colin making his grand escape from the garage. Why did he suddenly feel like he had been set up by the very person he called 'brother'? Although he tried to protest with his hands and face, Colin did not turn back. Logan was left standing in the garage alone with Zoey on speakerphone. There was a long silence and Logan was unsure of what to do about it. Thankfully Zoey spoke him up and snapped him out of his panicked state ─ at least for the most part.

" I wasn't eavesdropping or anything like that.  I just happened in on the conversation. " That wasn't a complete lie. But the last thing he wanted was for her to think he was some weird creeper who liked listening in on other people's conversations.

The way she fumbled over her wording made his brow arch. His eyes were still watching the garage door waiting for Colin to reenter. Now intrigued, he shifted his gaze back to the phone, wondering how she would respond. She hesitated, her voice wavering. He could sense her hesitation, and his curiosity was piqued even further. Suddenly, the silence was broken by her normal upbeat tone. " With it just being at my place I think casual would be just fine. " Maybe he should have asked her to have dinner somewhere else but he still didn't have a full grasp of the town yet. Most of the time here had just been spent locating unusual buildings that were big enough to hide out The Rose Institute getaway creatures.

Saying he was nervous was an understatement. Dating wasn't something Logan did or thought about until now. It would have been helpful had his brother stuck around to try and help coach him through this phone call. He had no idea how to handle a conversation like this. He had no idea what to say or how to act. Then again she hadn't hung up on him yet so maybe he wasn't doing that poorly. He could only hope that he was handling the situation well enough to at least get past the phone call, but he had no way to really know for certain. He took a deep breath, hoping to ease the tension he was feeling.

Her next admission had him turning to stare at the phone. For the smallest of moments Logan almost swore he felt the smallest of smiles touch the corner of his lips. He hadn't smiled in what felt like an eternity, and he was surprised that listening to her had brought it back to him. " Think I'm glad I happened to be here as well. "

Logan nodded his head as if expecting her to see the motion. He quickly shifted with his knees slamming into Colin's desk. The sound the desk made against the concrete flooring was more disturbing than fingernails on a chalkboard.

" Slow is good. " He tried to recover as quickly as possible. " I can't promise I'll know how this all works straight off. All of this is completely new to me. " Logan admitted. Logan realized that it was better to take his time and learn the process thoroughly, rather than rush through it and make mistakes.

The word ' date ' vibrated in his ears a few times and he was still shocked. " I promise I'll do my best to not bore you to death. " Maybe he was just overthinking things. It seemed like all the other times they had been together be it hunting or anything else he did alright ─ especially if she thought all those things about him and still wanted to spend time out with him. " Pick you up at your place around six? " He was nervous but excited, he couldn't believe he had asked her out on a date but she was the most captivating woman he had ever met and he couldn't wait for tomorrow night.

Zoey winced on the other end of the phone when she heard a collision of sorts. What was that all about? But upon hearing Logan's voice almost instantly, she figured it was nothing serious. His admittance to the lacking in the dating department drew a smile from her. He was honest and upfront with her. She appreciated that, as she wasn't the type who wanted to be left in the dark about anything.

Hypocrite much? her inner wolf chided, before fading into the background of her humanity.

"You're NOT going to bore me, I promise," Zoey laughed as she became more relaxed in her seat. Logan's voice was so soothing that she could listen to him read a dictionary, and she'd be memorized. "Six o'clock is perfect!"

She chewed her lower lip to hold back a squeal of delight. Instead, she took to kicking her feet back and forth upon the chair she sat upon, which happened to be a high-rise seat. What to wear on her date? It'd been a good while since she was last in the dating scene. Would she even fit her "good" clothes? She might have to hit up the mall and do some emergency shopping.

Once she forced herself to calm down, she took a couple of easy breaths, before speaking into the phone once more.

"Logan, I look forward to our date. Tell my brother-in-law thank you for the help, and I'll text him later for details about that book. And feel free to text me any time!"

Her palms were sweating, and her cheeks were flushed. Yes, yes, yes!

Just then, a message popped over the screen, with a text from Colin.

"Don't hate me, but it was for your own good. Most importantly, did she say yes?"

As Logan replayed the conversation in his mind, he couldn't help but wonder if his lack of experience might hindered this connection. He had always been more comfortable with actions rather than words, and now he questioned whether his honesty about it might inadvertently push her away. Logan's mind wandered back to the moment when he had confessed his inexperience. It was a vulnerable admission, one that required trust and openness. But now, doubts crept in. Had he unintentionally made himself appear inadequate? Would she see him as inexperienced and therefore not worth pursuing? Logan felt a pang of regret for not taking the time to improve himself in this aspect.

But soon enough he felt himself exhaling a breath of air, feeling more relaxed now that her excitement still seemed as high-spirited as ever. He couldn't help but be captivated by her infectious energy.

" Alright, six o'clock it is. But just remember I warned you. " And right there he had done it again. Talk about a repeated moment of foot in mouth.

As they exchanged words, Logan found himself hanging onto every syllable that escaped her lips. Her voice was melodic, carrying an air of confidence and wisdom that intrigued him beyond measure. But it wasn't just her physical beauty or captivating presence that had Logan spellbound. It was the genuine connection he felt whenever their eyes met or their hands brushed accidentally. He wanted to learn everything there was to know about her. This much he knew for a fact.

" I'll be sure to grab your number before Colin retrieves his phone. I'll let you know when I'm on my way. Speaking of Colin .... " Logan paused as he read the message that just shot across the screen. With a slight narrowing of his eyes, he went on to finish his statement. " I'll have to track him down to return his phone. That's if he's not half across the country by now. " Did he manage to make somewhat of a joke just then? " I'll see you soon. " He finished off before hanging up the phone.

Quickly he sent a message back to Colin.

" If you want to know the answer, come find out. You have to come get your phone sooner or later. "

The garage door creaked open, and Colin emerged from the kitchen with the tablet computer he used to communicate with Logan mere moments ago.

"It worked, didn't it?" he asked, already knowing the answer, but unable to resist, regardless. Logan was his childhood friend, the person he trusted most aside from his wife. He only wanted to see him happy - now, the rest would be up to Logan and his sister-in-law.

Colin didn't press for further answers right away, as he went to his desk and set his tablet down. From inside the kitchen, Molly was heard chatting to Zoe about their upcoming trip to Canada, which was right around the corner. They would only be gone for a few weeks, which would leave Logan and Zoey ample time to get to know one another in private if they choose to do so during their absence.

"Just be yourself," Colin advised his old friend, as he offered Logan a side glance. "It's what Zoey fell for, to begin with."

The garage door was kicked open, and Molly burst into the room. "First date flowers!" she insisted, as she hurried down the stairs and made her way back to her desk, her eyes immediately locked with Logan's. After all, he was still quite attractive to the teenage girl. "Women always appreciate flowers - just nothing that'll make a werewolf weak, y'know."

Colin frowned at his pupil's outbursts. "Miss Frog, you were snooping on our conversation."

"I was not!" Molly insisted. "We dhampirs have sensitive hearing. It's not my fault I heard your conversations over my loud talking! Besides, my honorary Auntie Zoey is one of my daddy's good friends. I have every right to know what happens to her!"

Logan's eyes squinted when he watched Colin finally step back out into the garage. The frustration that had been building within him slowly dissipated, replaced by a sense of understanding. If anyone else had done that to him, they would have a fight on their hands right about now. But Colin was different; he was the one person on this earth Logan could never truly be angry with. There was an unspoken bond between them, forged through years of shared experiences and unwavering loyalty. They had weathered countless storms together, and no matter what happened, they would always have each other's back.

" So far, so good. " Logan admitted. " That's not to say I don't make an ass of myself later on tonight. " Colin's presence alone had a calming effect on Logan. His friend possessed an uncanny ability to diffuse tense situations with a single word or gesture. It was as if he could read Logan's mind, understanding his frustrations even before they were spoken aloud.

Hearing Molly's voice carry through the walls reminded him that Zoey, Colin, and Molly were about to embark on a trip that would leave him without his brother to turn to should he need him. Colin had been there to lend an empathetic ear and offer sage advice. But now he was going to be left to face this trail on his own.

" Wait you think she's already .. " Before he could get out the rest of his thought the garage door came flying open with a bang. Logan shifts uneasily when Molly makes the suggestion about flowers. Flowers were something Logan never would have thought about. They seemed trivial, inconsequential even, in the grand scheme of things. 

His stoic expression remained as Colin questioned her about listening in on their conversation. Here he thought he was keeping his voice low. This whole situation had him acting nothing like himself. So Colin's earlier remark about that very thing flew out the window.

" Strange that you're not the only dhampir here and yet I heard nothing of your conversations until moments ago. " Perhaps Logan was calling her out on that statement. Logan sat himself back on the edge of the desk, shifting to face Molly. Now he was feeling a bit more like himself. " Knowing what happens to her and what goes on in her personal life are two very different things, Miss Frog. Would you not agree? But I do appreciate the flower suggestion and I'll consider it. "

"Well, when you're in love with someone, you tune everyone out except for yourself and that person," Molly simply stated cheerfully. "You don't have to be any one kind of race. It's just chemistry!"

Colin cleared his throat, wanting to save Logan some face. "It's a bit early to declare if the feelings are that strong just yet. We have to let those two, and only for those two, to decide. Let's be clear on that."

Molly sighed dramatically, in a way that caused the ends of her hair to bounce off her shoulders. "Fiiine. Zoe told me the same thing last year about what's his name from chemistry class. You know, the first part stuff, about feelings being strong."

"See? You claimed to have been in love, and yet you call him what's his name."

"Yeah, because my love is for Striker now, and nothing is going to change that."

Colin rubbed the side of his temple. That wasn't the first time he heard that statement from Molly. However, he had to admit that the way she focused on Striker was admittedly a bit different. Though he was a bit (or rather, much, MUCH) older than she was, her approach to the werewolf was more laid back. Perhaps she knew that he wasn't going anywhere; not to some university, or that he'd leave her for some other girl in another class. Whatever the case, the two had this understanding, and Molly was aware. Meanwhile, Logan was aware that Zoey was there for him, and she was more than willing to give someone like him a chance.

"You'll be fine," Colin promised his long-time friend. He reached out a rested a hand on his shoulder. "Trust me."

Logan's brow arched at the word ' love '. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of skepticism whenever he heard that word. Love had always been a complicated concept for Logan, something he struggled to fully comprehend. It seemed elusive, like a mirage in the desert, always just out of reach because it's a fleeting feeling, he's never had before. But deep down, beneath the layers of skepticism and doubt, Logan yearned for something more. He longed for a connection that transcended superficiality and stood the test of time much like Colin and Zoe's relationship.

Praise be to Colin for intervening and assuming control of that remark. Colin was right about that, only he and Zoey could make that choice. Despite Colin's assurance that he gest through all of this, there remains a possibility of things going awry.

Logan's brow furrowed in confusion as he had no idea who this Striker person was. Judging by the expression on Colin's face when his name was mentioned, Logan wasn't sure if he wanted to find out either. It was hard for him to believe that he was as old as he was and still struggling with the concept and yet and teenage girl seemed so sure of it ... apparently not only once but twice.

Logan was feeling overwhelmed by everything, and it seemed like Colin was reaching his limit. It was a rare occasion for them to have a meaningful conversation without any interruptions. Maybe it was time for Colin to resume teaching his student. He knew that if he encountered any difficulties, he could always rely on Colin just being a phone call away.

Speaking of phones. When Colin placed his hand on his shoulder Logan reached out handing his phone back to him. " Thanks for the advice, Brother. I guess I should go and start getting myself ready for this. " Logan nodded his head and then headed for the door. He stopped just short and turned back to Molly. " Miss Frog, Listen to your teacher. He's a wise man. " With that Logan made his departure.