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“Any chance you saw something that could work as a walking stick nearby?” I asked while leaning toward the heat rolling off him.

“Unfortunately, no, but I don’t live far from here. I can take you there to ice and elevate your ankle.”

“In the woods? I didn’t know there were homes out here.”

“It’s secluded.”

“How far is it? My car is about a mile back that way. Could you help me there instead?” As intrigued as I was about his house in the woods, it made more sense to get home and elevate my leg while playing Kiss of the Abyss. Though, a part of me fought the idea of leaving. This guy intrigued me, and the secret part of me that enjoyed being romanced by Damien in the game wanted to go back to this guy’s house.

“How are you going to drive?”

I grimaced. He raised a good point. There was no way I’d be able to drive on it like this. I supposed I could sleep it off and drive home in the morning, but I wasn’t sure passing out in my car would help the swelling.

“Could you drive me home?” That was a big ask of a stranger, but I didn’t have many options.

Something complicated crossed his face. “I…can’t drive.”

How did he get food? Go to work? Run errands? It wasn’t like a rideshare service had a route in the middle of nowhere. But that wasn’t my business.

“Oh. Okay. Then, yes, I’d appreciate getting to ice my ankle at your place until the swelling dies down.” Once I said the words, a giddy sensation spread through me.

If I couldn’t get home, I might as well have a bonus adventure. That was why I’d come out here tonight, right? I might not get the Halloween badge for completing a spooky adventure in the app, but was better.

“You’re sure? You don’t have any stranger danger alarm bells? I could be a serial killer for all you know,” he teased as he carefully replaced my boot.

“If you kill me, I’ll haunt you. I can be really annoying when I put my mind to it.”

His deep chuckle made my chest constrict.

“I’m Marcus.” I held out my hand.

“Zane.” His large hand engulfed mine. His skin was softer than I expected.

When his thumb briefly brushed across the back of my hand, a frisson of electricity raced up my arm. Zane. It suited him.

“There. Now we’re not strangers anymore.” My smile faded. “How far is the walk?” I’d have to lean on his shoulder or something.

“Another mile or so.”

I grimaced.

“I’m going to say something that will sound like a flex, but I’m saying it out of practicality.”

My brow furrowed as my attention wandered to his horns. “Okay.”

“I’m very strong.”

I couldn’t help the laugh that spilled out.

“I told you it sounds like a flex, but what I’m trying to say is because of my strength and endurance—stop laughing—I can carry you back to my place.”

“You’re telling me the muscles aren’t for show?” I was laughing so hard that I had to wipe tears away. “I’m sorry.” I bit my lips to stop my giggles. “Are you going to throw me over your shoulder like a caveman?”

His face scrunched. “Of course not. That would feel terrible on your stomach and probably make you nauseous. There’s always the bridal carry.”

I groaned. “Absolutely not.”

Zane nodded sagely. “I think a koala hug might be the best option.”