Font Size:  

“Peach, I'll buy you a dozen toaster tongs. We’ve just got to survive your stalker first, okay?”

“Okay,” I mumbled, but decided I was holding him to that. He carried me the rest of the way, and I smiled considering his words. In Sladeland, that was practically a proposal.

Pen Pal Letter

THANE TO NOX

Dear Noxy girl,

I’ve done something bad that I worry is unforgivable. Writing to you has shown me I can change, and that the most important thing is trying. I admit that is something I've struggled with. But you, you’ve shown me I can be better, do better.

I did ask someone to sit with me, and you were right. It was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I think I made a real friend and not someone who likes me just because of my looks or what I can do for them. I know that might not make sense, but one day I think it will.

If my letters change, it’s because I’m changing, and I don’t want you to worry. No matter what happens from this point forward, I want you to know I’m better for it. You’ve imprinted yourself on me, Noxy girl, and I’ll never let you go.

Thank you for listening and pushing me to step outside myself and be a better person.

No more dares. You don’t need them. You’re brave. The bravest person I know. I hope you one day realize it and know how many people you’ve changed with your kindness and light. I don’t deserve your friendship, but I will, one day.

I’ll always be waiting under the stars, hoping for a world where there are a million of you to spend all my minutes with.

Blaze

Slade setme down on my feet, brushing my hair back. His eyes were intense as he looked down at me. My eyelashes fluttered closed at his gentle touch. Seeing this Alpha-hole be so sweet had me turning to goo inside.

“Come on, Peach. Let’s figure out a plan.”

Nodding, I linked our hands, and we joined my other two guys and my dad. My dad appeared deep in thought, his hand covering his chin as he stared at the ground. It looked like Zane and Simon had filled him in as we approached. The sound of our steps drew his focus, and he lifted his eyes, meeting mine, before flicking to Slade.

“You're sure this is the guy?” I handed him the picture, and he nodded, recognizing ‘Thane’ as well.

“Alright, I’ll send this over. At least now we have a photo. It should help. I’m gonna head back home. You going to be alright, pumpkin?”

“Yeah, Dad. I will be.” I nodded, hugging him.

“You guys look after her, you hear? I’m trusting you to keep my daughter safe.”

“Yes, sir,” they chorused. But of course, Slade had to have the last word. “But in all fairness, Eddy, Lennox can do that all on her own.”

My dad smiled, pleased with his response, and I rolled my eyes despite being happy as well. I wrapped my arm around my Tatzilla, pulling him close to my side. “Good answer. Simon, you might be getting replaced as my favorite if you’re not careful.”

“What? Hey!” Simon yelped, turning to punch Slade in the arm, but in the end, it was Si who was shaking his hand out after coming into contact with the hard muscle. Laughing, we waved my dad off as he got into his police cruiser and drove away. We were left standing on the sidewalk, the sounds of the city beginning to filter back in.

“So, what now?” I asked, looking at them.

Zane walked forward but stopped when Slade growled. Smacking his stomach, I dropped my arm and grabbed Zane’s hand. He squeezed it before continuing. “Now, we try to live our lives and figure out a way to draw Adam out.”

“Assuming he doesn’t come out himself,” I muttered.

“Yeah, but we can’t live our lives waiting for him to act. He’s gonna lay low I bet after the two explosions, or maybe he’ll show his hand. Who knows? He seems to be becoming more and more unhinged. I think we should finish up here, figure out where we’re all staying, and then watch a stupid movie that makes us all laugh until we can’t breathe.”

“Excellent plan.”

Even Slade couldn’t find fault. Rolling his eyes, he sighed, giving in. “Fine, but I refuse to watch that reality show you both are obsessed with.”

“Real Housewives? Say it ain’t so!”

Naturally, Simon and I had to poke at Slade the rest of the time we cleaned the shop. His constant muttering under his breath about dealing with the two of us only spurred us on. Despite picking up the destroyed remains of the shop and my home, the next hour went by quickly. We converged on Darcie’s place, figuring it was the best bet for the night, and we all pigged out on junk food before having a sleepover. It was nice remembering there was more to life than stalkers and lies.

Source: www.allfreenovel.com