Book excerpt: After several months in Japan, Al is becoming accustomed to life on the far side of Asia. Living and working with Akira—though not without its spats and squabbles—has given him a place to belong for the first time since he became a vampire. But when a new assistant arrives at the Old Memorial Center and falls hard for Akira, Al realizes how quickly he could find himself alone again should Akira change his mind. Though discerning Akira’s true feelings—apart from annoyance—seems near impossible, Al might not have another choice...