Page 180 of Trick or Stalk

My phone sits on the table.

I stare at it.

Specifically, at one name.

Hades.

He hasn't texted me.

I haven't texted him.

Apparently, exchanging phone numbers was merely a ceremonial ritual where we have the other’s number but don’t contact each other.

I pick up my phone.

Put it down.

Pick it up again.

“This is pathetic.”

I click on his name, deciding to text him.

Hey.

No. All wrong.

Delete.

So I found another book for you.

That’s better.

Except that sounds like I'm trying to lure him here with pornography.

Which I kinda am.

A crash comes from somewhere beyond the staff room.

I freeze.

“What the hell?”

My ears strain, but everything’s silent.

I wait.

Nothing.

Maybe some books fell. We've already established books randomly throw themselves off shelves in this place. Apparently even the inventory is dramatic.

I slide my phone into my back pocket and step into the hallway.

“Hello?”

Nothing.

I walk toward the front of the store. The music outside sounds strangely distant now.