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“True,” Luke said. “But I’m wondering if the sensation is more intense for us because of our enhanced senses.”
“Sounds logical.”
Luke held out his hand. “If you’ll give me your key I’ll put my things in your cabin.”
So we’re really doing this, Talia thought. Last night she had told herself to think of him as a houseguest. Separate bedrooms. But tonight they would be sleeping in the same room. Yes, there was a cot in the cozy cabin in addition to the bed, but still—the same room.
She gave him the key and watched him open the door and drop the duffel inside. He kept the pack slung over one shoulder. When he relocked the door and turned around, the cool, withdrawn look was back in his eyes.
“I know this isn’t ideal,” he said. “But we don’t have much choice.”
“I agree. We need to be adults about this. Allies, remember?”
He drew a deep breath and exhaled slowly. “Right. Allies. With luck, I won’t have any dramatic dreams, but if I do, wake me, okay?”
“Okay.” She paused. “Same goes for me. If I seem to be having a bad dream, just give me a little shake.”
“Deal.”
They started along the path through the gardens, heading for the lodge.
“Did you notify the Venners that you won’t be using your cabin?” she asked, trying to find a neutral topic.
“No. I’ll do that in the morning.”
She slanted him a quick, searching look. “You’re afraid I might kick you out of my cabin, aren’t you? In which case you would need a place to sleep.”
“If you kick me out I’ll sleep on your doorstep,” Luke said. “I don’t want you to be on your own, especially at night.”
“Got it. Don’t worry, I won’t make you sleep on the doorstep. I assume we have a plan for pursuing our search for Phoebe Hatch?”
“I’m working on one,” Luke said. “Later tonight I’m going to take a look around the Unplugged Experience office. I noticed it at the main lodge today when we checked in.”
“I’ll come with you.”
“Not a good idea.”
“It’s our only available idea. You don’t want me to be alone at night, remember?”
Luke’s jaw tightened but he did not argue.
“Besides, you need me,” she added. “I’m the one who can find things.”
There was a short silence.
“You’re right,” Luke said after a moment. “Like I said, I’m used to working alone.”
“That does not come as a dazzling revelation. But you had better get accustomed to having a partner, because we’re in this together until we get answers. Consider yourself a temporary member of theLost Night Filesteam.”
“My dreams of fame and glory are coming true at last.”
“Stick with us, pal, and we’ll make you a star.”
CHAPTER SIXTEEN
Remember that allthings are connected. The Venner System is designed to teach you how to open yourself to the reality of this truth. As you move through the Unplugged Experience you will discover your personal link to the universe. The secrets of establishing your inner peace will be revealed.”
Clive Venner listened to the sound of his own voice and wondered if the audience was as bored by it as he was. The small crowd gathered in front of the fire for the after-dinner drinks was starting to get restless. Probably wishing they could get on their phones. He didn’t blame them. It wasn’t like there was anything else to do on the fucking island.
