And he’s right. Hollow Creek isn’t ready for that kind of drama.
The night air wraps around us as we step outside, and I realize something important as I fall into step beside him.
I didn’t win.
Neither did he.
This isn’t a chase anymore.
It’s an agreement.
“Oh, wait.” I stop, turning toward the back patio.
“Mr. Pickles, right?”
My head snaps toward his. A smile lights up my face. “You heard.”
He nods. “Let’s see if we can get your cat.”
“Stalker,” I tease as I lead the way.
“Takes one to know one,” he quips right back.
I see Mr. Pickles’ tail flickering in the light. He’s hiding in the shadows of the tree.
I call his name, and he slowly comes out, bright green eyes moving from me to Sebastian. My body tenses, afraid he’s going to take off running.
But the craziest thinghappens.
Mr. Pickles heads right to Sebastian and rubs his body against his shins. A strange sound comes from him—like he’s trying to purr, but the sound is rough and strained.
Sebastian looks like he’s ready to crawl out of his skin.
“You okay?” I ask with a smile.
He shakes his head. “I’ve never had a cat. Only a dog.”
“Well, this one seems to like you.”
I squat down, and Mr. Pickles hisses at me.
Sebastian chuckles, letting go of the suitcase and duffel bag. Then he reaches down and scoops up the mangy cat.
“It’s okay, Mr. Pickles. Ivy’s nice. She’s been feeding you.”
He scratches Mr. Pickles’ ears. The cat stares at me with a smug look that clearly saysmine.
Mr. Pickles is in for the fight of his life if he thinks I’m giving Sebastian up that easily.
We stare each other down. He bows his head slightly, and I feel a sense of victory go through me.
“Can I pet you now?”
Mr. Pickles leans into Sebastian’s touch, eyes lifting to mine.
He stops rubbing the cat’s ears. “Let her pet you, or there will be no more ear scratches.”
The cat sighs—sighs—then gives me a reluctant look that seems to sayproceed at your own risk.
