Chapter 185: Shadows of Deception

Caitlin’s mind was a labyrinth of confusion, her thoughts foggy and unsteady. Randolf loomed over her, his presence both compelling and menacing. His every step mirrored her hesitant retreats, his head inclining towards her throat in a predatory gesture. The situation was bewildering—shouldn’t she allow him to feed? After all, even if she wasn’t Maggie, she was still his daughter. His loneliness and torment seemed to plead for her compassion. She could feel his hot breath against her neck, the weight of his hunger pressing down on her. Yet every instinct screamed at her to flee. Her body trembled, caught between an irrational stillness and a primal urge to escape. What was happening to her? Why was she standing still, paralyzed by fear and confusion, when every fiber of her being screamed to run? Caitlin! Love, you must get away from him. I don't know what he’s up to, but you are in danger. Do not let him take your blood. Zendedari’s voice pierced her haze with a clarity that cut t