'What If' Week - Day 3

Joshua knew that it was increasingly obvious that he was feeling weak that day; especially to the two scientists he was currently with. Arnold frowned at him in worry, as James had a few moments ago- though the taller of the two had to go off to the side in order to keep their current invention stable. The youngest of the three tried to smile assuringly, though it remained obvious that it was fake and he knew it. The truth was, he was feeling incredibly drained. Thinking of the word ‘drain’ was enough to make him cringe slightly, the hunger creeping in further on him. He had already spent the day outside, no thanks to his car breaking down and forcing him to walk to work. The sunscreen did help him survive, of course- but that didn’t mean that he wasn’t weakening by the time he got to his destination. Added to that, he had barely eaten anything throughout the course of the day. He had managed to discreetly scarf down a few mosquitoes here and there when he caught sight of one, yes, but that wasn’t saying much. Right now, he’d even drink from a filthy rat. Just so long as he got some blood in him to quench the horrible thirst he currently felt.
“Perhaps you should rest, Josh.” James stated, glancing back from his spot for a quick second before once again turning mind to the stabilizers. Josh frowned, licking his lips a tad while still managing to keep his fangs hidden. He didn’t much want to go home early. He wanted to contribute further with the project. His mind protested and his fangs elongated ever so slightly; it always happened when his cravings became stronger than usual. If his heart still beat, he was sure he’d feel it against his chest. I could always feed here… They wouldn’t remember any of it, he thought guiltily. He immediately shook the thought from his brain. Stupid idea. Very, very horrible idea.
“I’ll be alright. We’re almost done, anyways.” he responded, making certain that his voice didn’t quiver and remained strong. Neither of his co-workers looked convinced. In fact, Arnold sighed and grabbed his coat to go outside.
“No. You’re getting rest… C’mon, I’ll drive you home.” he insisted, walking over. Josh gulped slightly, more to keep his hunger down that anything else. On one end, he was upset that he didn’t get to experiment further. On the other, he was relieved that he’d soon be home, where he had some small blood bags that he had gathered waiting in the fridge. He reluctantly gave in and allowed Arnold to lead him out the door. James turned to them as they left. “I’ll see you two tomorrow; I think it’s safe to say we’re done here for the night, anyways.” he assured.
Arnold waved back at him. “Night.” Josh sheepishly waved to his friend as well before rushing a bit quicker to Arnold’s car. With the worry of missing out now passed aside, all he cared about was getting home, and not letting this happen again. He couldn’t risk not being able to control himself, were he to get too hungry… Especially if his only two friends were around when it happened.