Page 19 of Trick or Stalk

There’s something about her that draws me to her. Makes me want to watch her. Learn her.

I finally turn toward the trail.

The woods are darker than they were when I came through, but I don't need much light to find my way back.

Not anymore.

I know exactly where the trail leads.

CHAPTER 6

Presley

The morning sunlight makes everything from last night seem ridiculous.

I stand in the kitchen wearing fuzzy socks, an oversized sweatshirt, and absolutely no makeup while Penny stares at me from beside her empty food bowl.

“You ate.”

Her tail wags.

“Twenty minutes ago.”

More wagging.

“You’re not starving.”

She looks at the bowl, then at me. Then back at the bowl.

I narrow my eyes. “Emotional manipulation doesn’t work on me.”

Penny sits. Her ears droop.

Crap.

I sigh. “Fine. We’ll compromise. One treat.”

Her entire body comes alive.

“Little beggar.”

I grab a small treat from the container and hand it to her, then reach for my phone. No messages from Stella. That’s suspicious. Normally, she would’ve sent me at least three by now.

One asking if I’m alive. One reminding me to eat something. And one random meme that has nothing to do with anything we’ve talked about.

I glance toward the coffee maker, then immediately look away. “Nope.”

Penny tilts her head.

“I’m not risking it.”

She has no idea what I’m talking about. And I’m not about to relive the espresso disaster right now. Some things are better left alone.

I grab my purse and keys. “Come on. We’re getting coffee made by professionals.”

Penny races toward the door.

“You just want a pup cup.”