Page 6 of The Banshee’s Unmistakable Love

“I can walk you home since it’s dark.” An offer I would make for Blair, too.

She’s shaking her head no before I can even finish my sentence. “No—I mean, uh, no thanks. I’ll be fine. See you Thursday.”

There’s a moment of hesitation as she looks me over, her cheeks regaining some color after going so pale in the restaurant. Even under the streetlights, the reddish hue is visible, though it doesn’t quite reach her pointed ears like earlier.

I only get to view her rosiness for a few seconds before she spins on her heel and walks away, giving a wave over her shoulder. A chuckle leaves me as she gets farther away. The way she scurries has always brought me joy.

When we were younger, I thought it was an interesting way of walking. It’s unique in ways no one could replicate.

At some point, the scurrying became accompanied by the swivel of her hips. It was still interesting, but it also gained a layer of sexiness. One that really stirs my desire for her. While I hate to see her leave, I love to watch her walk away.

It’s even better knowing I get to see her again in a few days.

I look forward to the continuation of our game of pretend. Even more so, though, I look forward to finding out why she’s playing it.

Chapter 3

THE WORST TEXTER

BRIAR

As soon as I’m in my apartment and can breathe properly, I pull out my phone and open my text chat with my sister. I let out a grumble at the sight of my unanswered texts—four, to be exact.

And it’s about to be many, many more.

This is a very urgent matter, and I will be wildly frustrated if she doesn’t respond.

BLAIR THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT I NEED 5 MINUTES OF YOUR UNDIVIDED ATTENTION

My knuckles are white as I grip my phone. The seconds pass, and for the first time, the read symbol pops up within decent time, followed shortly by her typing bubbles.

Does this have to do with Zander?

Oh no, was I too slow? Has he already texted her and debunked my stupid little act? Gods, why didn’t I correct him?

Yes, he’s in town again, which would’ve been nice to know before I PRETENDED I WAS YOU!

Her typing bubbles appear and disappear a few times, so I sit on my couch while I wait for her response. From my bedroom, I hear a tiny thump, followed by the click-clack of my wiener dog’s nails on the wooden floor.

Girl why??

It took her that long to type two words? Seriously?

Churro uses the little ramp I got her to climb up to the couch, spinning in a few circles before settling next to me. I pet her golden fur a few times before turning my eyes back to the screen.

Blair didn’t text anything else? That really is all she has to say?

I wish I had the answer, but I DON’T KNOW! It just happened, and now I have to be you until you’re back in town…which means I need you to tell me what he texts you so I can meet him places.

It’s read instantly, offering me some relief. At least when I need her to be a good texter, she is. Sort of. Her responses could use some work, but that’s a lot to ask from the world’s worst texter.

So let me get this straight…

You want me to LIE to my best friend that you, my twin, are me. AND you want me to tell you what we’re saying so you can better act as ME??

Well, she’s starting to get it now. That may be the most words she’s ever put in a message to me before.

Yes…?