Page 262 of Trick or Stalk

I open the door.

Wilder doesn't move.

“What?”

“I'm coming with you.”

“Why?”

“Because you look fucking unhinged.”

“I always look unhinged.”

“More than usual.” He looks at the party. “Besides, I came with a woman, and she's too young and clingy.”

I stare at him. “You didn’t know that before you got in her car?”

He shrugs. “I was willing to overlook it when I needed a ride.”

“Get in.”

He does.

I slide behind the wheel and start the engine. For several seconds, I just sit there.

I could turn right when we leave Greycourt, which takes me toward Presley. Left takes me toward the cabin.

Wilder doesn't say anything.

I put my truck in gear and navigate the long driveway.

At the end of it, I stop.

My hands tighten around the steering wheel.

My turn signal clicks. Wilder glances at it.

Neither of us speaks.

I swear and flip the signal the other direction.

Then I turn left, away from Presley.

Every mile toward our shitty cabin feels wrong. Every instinct tells me I'm going the wrong fucking way.

My chest tightens until it fucking hurts.

I spent weeks convincing Presley that she was safe with me. Tonight, I finally understand what that was supposed to mean.

It’s letting her decide who gets access to her.

Even when she doesn't choose me.

I grip the steering wheel and drive home.

Without her.

CHAPTER 36