“Frank-” she coughed through bloody teeth, “Frank, just leave me. I’m too far gone. I-” The smash of Frank’s armored fist cut her off. As the metallic echo died, the scratching of claws against wood returned. Frank lowered the final bar in place across the door, then turned towards Jane.

“No! No, this is not the end! I-” He paused, kneeling to caress her head, his fingers running through her blood stained hair. “I can’t lose you. Not now. Not like this.” She reached up, rough fingers wiping away his tears.

“You know I wont make it much further.” she whispered, “It’s only a matter of time-”

“No! No, I won’t let them take you.” He replied. “You’re going to get through this.”

“How Frank? They bit me. The infection is spreading. Leave me, before you’re next.”

“Don’t talk that way. I was going to wait until you met my parents, but I don’t care anymore. Tradition can wait.”

“What are you talking about?”

He leaned over and kissed her on the forehead. “Jane, I love you.” Then his fangs sunk into her neck.