I'm just about to start book 2 in this series, so this short was a great way to get back into the world and the characters. 
 Esme & Rips story. Rip is keeping his distance from Esme because he is afraid that in his new state he'll hurt her. There are some misunderstandings that luckily don't go on too long. Also some action as someone tries to take over Blade's turf. 
 The romance worked and I enjoyed the whole story.