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What’s so funny? You could be flirting with a psycho, you dummy. I face grab her from my screen and run her identity even if he doesn’t leave with her or appear to trade information. The conversation looked more one-sided on her part, but that doesn’t stop my level of annoyance from growing.
“Why are you growling now?”
I cough to cover it because I don’t even understand why I’m reacting the way I am.
“He’s moving! He’s moving!” Ocean shouts into my ear. “Statistically he’ll be going to...” She rattles a list of the places he’s been caught on camera in the last month along with the most likely spots she thinks he’ll visit based on the day and time.
“Coffee shop,” we both agree at the same time.
“I’m going.” I hop up from my chair. “Follow him.”
“Of course I’m following him, but what do you mean you’re going?”
“Like going to the coffee shop.” What should I wear? Why does that matter? He’s not going to notice me. I’m mousy and bland. It works in my favor more often than not. It helps me blend in. People can look right over me, and I don’t mean just because I’m only a few inches over five feet.
“In person?”
“I like coffee,” I lie, hoping she doesn’t call me on my bullshit.
“No you don’t. You like hot chocolate.”
Dammit. “They have that there.” I’ve been to the coffee shop a few times. It sits right inside the city.
“Okay, this might actually work. Do a plant.” I freeze. Ocean has lost her damn mind.
“I wasn’t going to talk. Just watch really.”
“Fine. I’ll do the plant.”
“You’re coming?” Now you can’t miss Ocean. Her hair is always a bright blue. Men notice when she walks into a room. So much so they don’t notice when she’s doing something sneaky while they flirt with her.
“Are you going to plant something on him?”
“No.” I’m too clumsy for that. Ocean not so much. She could pickpocket you if she wanted. I don't love the idea of her getting so close to him. Not because I’m jealous or anything. I’m just looking out for her. I mean, he could be dangerous.
No, heisdangerous. That much is clear. He’s driving me insane.
4
OWEN
It’s a bright day as I park at my usual coffee spot on the western edge of the city. I hop out and step into the building, the smell of a rich brew flavoring the air as people grab their drinks and head out or pick a table by one of the bright windows.
“The usual?” The girl at the counter gives me a wink.
“Yes, please.”
“It’s nice out today,” she says as she starts working on my coffee.
“Beautiful. I think it’s going to stay warm. No more cold snaps.” I glance around, looking at everyone in the place, but not directly. Just getting the lay of the land so I can decide if I want to sit and sip or take it to go.
“The new park over on Fifth just opened. I hear they have a lot of tulips coming up. I’d love to see them.”
I swipe my card and head to the other end of the counter to wait for my drink.
The bell on the door rings, another customer entering. I look up and find a woman with bright blue hair sauntering in.
“I get off in a couple of hours.”
