Page 219 of Trick or Stalk

Penny tries to climb into Hades’s arms. He laughs and takes her from me. She immediately settles against his chest.

Gracie smiles.

“I don't like that smile.”

“Why?”

“It’s that knowing smile of yours.”

She laughs. “Goodnight, Presley. Goodnight, Hades.”

“Goodnight, Gracie.” Hades and I say in unison.

By the time we reach my house, I'm emotionally and physically exhausted.

Hades carries Penny to the porch because apparently she's forgotten she has legs.

I unlock the front door, but don’t open it. My stomach tightens. Darkness waits on the other side.

Hades notices. “Want me to check it?”

I hesitate, then nod.

He hands Penny to me. “Stay here.”

He disappears inside.

Lights come on one by one, first the downstairs, then the upstairs.

I stand on the porch holding Penny, feeling ridiculous.

A few minutes later, Hades returns. “Clear.”

“Thanks.”

I step inside, and he follows. I lock the door behind us.

For a moment, neither of us says anything.

“Do you want me to stay?”

I blow out a shaky breath and squeeze Penny against my chest.

“Yes, please.”

He nods. “Okay.”

I lower Penny to the floor.

When I straighten, I look at the window where I last saw Masked Man. “What if he comes back?”

Hades's gaze holds mine. “He won't hurt you.”

“You don't know that.”

His expression changes, but then it’s gone.

“No,” he says quietly. “I guess I don't.”