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My heart thumps harder as I stare at him, speechless.
“I’m a man of my word, so I recognize that trait in others. It’s a rarity.” His smile reaches his eyes as he says, “Goodnight, Irelynn. I’m here if you need me.”
“Thank you… though it seems so inadequate for all…” I trail off, not finding the words to express how appreciative I am for all he’s done.
“You’re welcome.” He holds my gaze.
“Goodnight, Max.”
Smiling, he taps his phone once before putting it in his pocket.
Closing my door, I lean against it, listening for the sound of his retreating shoes. But I don’t hear anything. A smile crosses my face.He’s waiting for me to lock the door.My fingers grab the bolt lock, twisting it so it locks. Then I hear him walking away, the sound of his sneakers growing fainter as he heads to his motorcycle.
Hurrying over to my sofa, I put my knees on it, climbing onto the cushions. My elbows rest on the back as I watch him from the window. He grabs his helmet from the handlebars, scanning the surrounding area, before he puts it on. Straddling his bike, he starts the engine, the loud roar reverberating reaching through the window, enveloping my body.
Max sits there for a couple of beats, then flips up the visor on his helmet. His eyes lock on mine as I stare at him through the window. He smiles, his blue eyes full of softness and warmth, and then he throws up a hand in a wave. A huge smile splits my face as I wave back at him.
With one final, longing look, he flips his visor down, backs up slowly, then finally rides away.
Maybe it’s wishful thinking on my part, but he seemed reluctant to leave.
Goosebumps erupt over my skin as I look around my apartment. I know Max checked everything out. I even saw him double-check our closets. But that doesn’t mean William won’t show up and watch me through my windows.
Drawing all the blinds closed, I double-check that the back door is locked and grab my Social Psychology textbook from the bag.
Sitting on the couch, I reach for the TV remote, so the room isn’t so quiet. When the apartment door beside me slams shut, I jump, my heart pounding in my chest. I feel foolish when I realize it’s just my neighbor entering her apartment.
Turning the TV on, I lean back on the couch, releasing a long sigh.
It’s going to be a long night.
Chapter eight
Max
August25,2018,6:50p.m.
Pulling into a parking space in front of my apartment complex, I get off my bike, lost in thought. I hear my phone beep and a smile tugs at my lips, hoping it’s Irelynn.
Unknown: Hey Max. It’s Irelynn. I realized I never gave you my number.
Me: Thanks, Irelynn. I just saved you as a contact. Are things okay?
Irelynn: So far, so good. Thanks again for everything today.
Me:You’re welcome. And no problem.
Irelynn:Enjoy your night.
Me:Thanks. You too. Text or call if you need me.
Irelynn:Will do.
A smile is on my lips as I walk through my front door. Checking the time, I jump into the shower, getting ready to head to Darin’s house.
As I’m drying off, I can’t resist the urge to check my phone. Feeling slightly disappointed Irelynn hasn’t texted again, I scold myself for being ridiculous.
Grabbing a pair of jeans and a t-shirt, I dress and finish getting ready. Grabbing my phone, I text Darin.
