Page 11 of Burning Obsession

His laughter explodes through the speaker. "You absolutely did!"

"I was hungry."

"You folded faster than a lawn chair."

"It smelled good."

"It did smell good."

"You weren't even there."

"I don't have to be. I know your weakness. And everything from Fifi’s smells good."

"Fair point.” I pick up the phone and empty container and head to the kitchen to throw it away. At least if it’s out of sight then I won’t feel guilty about eating it.

“It’s your weakness. Has been for as long as I’ve known you.”

Making my way back to the living room, I sit down on the edge of the couch. “I know it’s probably harmless. I just wish whoever it is would stop.”

His teasing fades and his voice becomes serious. "I know."

"I don't know why someone keeps doing this."

"Maybe they genuinely appreciate you. Maybe they just aren’t good with words and this is the only way that they can thank you."

"Maybe.”

Stellan clears his throat. “So, drinks tomorrow? I was thinking The Corner Pocket around seven."

I pretend to think about it.

"Hmm."

"Oh, don't start. I’ll buy the first round. Call it an apology gift for ragging on you."

"Now you're speaking my language."

"So that's a yes?"

"Yeah."

"Seven."

"I'll be there."

"And maybe don't accept any more baked goods before then."

We say our goodbyes, and I end the call with a smile.

The exhaustion I've been holding at bay all day finally settles into my bones. I make one last pass through my apartment, checking the lock even though I know I already locked it. A person can’t be too careful with an admirer who may be a potential stalker.

I peel off my clothes, trade them for pajama pants and a shirt, and collapse onto the mattress. Sleep wastes no time taking over.

Chapter 3

Jake

My skull feels like someone hired a construction crew to remodel the inside of it. It’s not just the normal pounding I feel, but more like jackhammers trying to break through concrete.