Page 173 of Trick or Stalk

And somehow, both of them make me feel protected.

I don't understand it.

Even worse...

I'm not sure I want either one of them to stop.

CHAPTER 24

Hades

Between the windows at her house and The Crooked Spine, Presley has looked outside eleven times.

I lean against a tree, arms folded across my chest, watching through the front window of The Crooked Spine.

She glances toward the glass again.

Twelve.

My mouth curves.

Two unbearably long days of staying away from her. No using the mask. No popping into the bookstore. No shadow moving between the trees.

It’s been hell.

And it’s also been driving her crazy.

I wanted to know if she'd miss me. Apparently, I have my answer.

My phone feels heavier in my pocket with her number inside. Given freely.

Well, sort of.

I issued the command. She handed it over. I consider that voluntary.

I've taken plenty from Presley without her permission.

Her routine.

Her privacy.

The sight of her standing in her bedroom when she thought she was alone.

The feel of her skin beneath my fingers while she slept.

Things she never offered me.

But today she handed me her phone. Let me put my number into it. Let me call myself so I could have hers.

She gave me access.

I fucking like that more than everything I've already taken.

I pull my phone from my pocket and stare at her name.

Presley.

One touch and I could call her.