Page 56 of Property of Zombie

23

LUCY

“You heading out?”

I lift my head from the paperwork I’m filling out for a grant and smile at Evan. He’s been great since the death threats started, constantly checking on me and making sure I don’t need anything.

“Not yet,” I reply. “I’ve still got a lot of work to do.”

“You’ve got a ride home, though?”

“Yep. He’s coming later.”

Evan nods. “Good. Want me to hang around for a while so you’re not here alone?”

“No, that’s not necessary. Just let whoever is on duty tonight know that I’ll be here, if you don’t mind.”

“Of course.” He pauses as if waiting for me to say more. When I don’t, he says, “Well, have a good night.”

“You, too, Ev. Give the dogs a hug for me.”

“I will.”

Evan disappears into the hallway, and I return to my work. I completely lose track of time, and it’s only when my stomach growls that I stop and check in with Zombie.

“Hey, babydoll,” he greets, and I can hear the wind coming through the line, so I know he’s riding.

“I won’t keep you. Just wanted to see how the trip was going.”

“We’re on track to be there around one,” he says. “Had to make a quick pit stop, but we’re back on the road.”

“Okay, I’ll be here. Text me when you’re a few minutes out, and I’ll meet you outside. There won’t be anyone at the gate. The code is four-three-six-seven.”

“Four-three-six-seven,” he repeats. “Got it.”

“See ya later.” I pause for a millisecond. “Love you.”

I disconnect the call before he can respond, giving him a dose of his own medicine. With a grin, I shove my phone into my back pocket and make my way to the break room to find something to eat.

Fully expecting to be the only staff remaining other than the overnight security guard, I let out a squeak when I open the door and see Evan sitting at one of the long tables, staring at his iPad.

“Shit, you scared me,” I snark. “I thought you left.”

He lifts his head, leveling his gaze on me. “I was about to, but, uh, I got an alert about a security breach, so I wanted to check it out first.”

“Oh.” Confused, I dart my eyes to the door and back to him. “Why are you in here, though?”

“Vic’s conducting his rounds,” Evan explains. “I let him know about the breach, and he’s going to check it out. I’m only hanging out until he lets me know it’s all clear.”

“So, you’re what… watching him on the iPad?” I laugh nervously.

Evan’s expression morphs into one of rage, and it hits me. He’s not here because of a security breach. He’s here for me.

“Evan?” I query quietly, slowly taking a step backward.

He jumps to his feet and lunges for me. When his body hits mine, I’m slammed against the wall, and the sound of my cell breaking reaches my ears.

Shit.