Page 25 of Trick or Stalk

“She has excellent instincts.”

“That remains to be seen.”

Gracie straightens. “Seriously, though. I’m happy for you.”

“Thanks.”

“And don’t worry about the job here. I’ll figure it out.”

“I feel bad backing out before I even start.”

“Don’t. You wanted the bookstore job.”

“I know.”

“You have to do what’s best for you, Presley. Not what others want you to do.”

Something in my chest loosens. “Thank you.”

She nods, then gives me a wicked grin. “Besides, books are safer.”

I snort out a laugh. “Stella said the exact same thing.”

“Well, she’s right.”

I lift my coffee. “I’m not discussing this anymore.”

She laughs.

The bell jingles as someone enters behind me. I can’t explain it, but the hair on the back of my neck rises.

I glance over my shoulder.

An older man heads toward the counter. A woman carrying a toddler follows him. They barely spare me a glance.

Yet it feels like I’m being watched.

I look out the front window. Cars line the street. People move along the sidewalk. A couple stands outside the bakery across the road.

There’s nothing unusual.

And certainly, no one staring at me.

Still, the feeling remains.

It’s the same one I had last night. Like someone is watching me.

I tighten my grip around Penny’s leash.

“Presley?”

I look back at Gracie.

“You okay?”

“Yeah.” I force a smile. “Just tired.”

Her gaze lingers on me for a moment. “You sure?”