Page 135 of If You Give an Artist a Killer Muse

Will I ever get that chance? To be looked at by someone like they would burn the world for me? That’s all I want. I just want to be someone’s chosen one.

Why does it hurt knowing I’ll never have Rurik that way? Do I want that with him? To hold his hand out in public, show everyone that he’s mine and that I’m his?

You’re already falling for him.

No, I’m not. I care about him, yeah, but I’m not in love with him.

Keep lying to yourself. It’s what you do best.

Oh, fuck off, darkness. Can’t stay away from me?

“Briar?”

I blink. My vision's blackness clears when I see Nat and Oscar watching me. I force a grin and throw my arms around Oscar.

“I’m so happy you’re okay,” I say, “If you’re going to get kidnapped in the near future, do let us know. Especially your poor wife.”

Oscar rolls his eyes, a tired smile tugging his lips. “My bad. I’ll be sure to let you guys know in advance.”

He looks down at Nat, still clinging on to him. She stares up at him with bright eyes, her face beaming with relief and happiness.

I can’t look at them.

I tear my eyes away from the lovesick couple to see the man knocked out or dead on the ground, Mr. Rogers and his team talking amongst themselves.

“Briar?”

I look at Oscar, “Yeah?”

“Are you good?” He asks, “Shit, if I had known me getting kidnapped would silence you this long, I would have done it sooner.”

Nat slaps him on the chest, “Don’t say that shit.”

I grin at him, “Why, you miss my voice?”

Oscar just rolls his eyes before looking serious again. “Real talk. Are you okay? You keep looking around as if you’re looking for someone. Should we inform Drake about potential troubles?” He looks at Nat, “You should call your mom and aunt to ensure they’re okay. I know they’re still out in Spain, but still.”

“Dad already did,” Nat says. “Her and Aunt Jenn are fine.”

“Hey, I’m going to go.” I blurt out.

I suddenly feel like I don’t want to be here with them. I’m happy that we saved Oscar, and I do not doubt that Mr. Rogers and the team have everything under control.

Nat and Oscar look at me with concern, but I just need to go.

Like now.

“Uh… Okay,” Nat blinks, frowning. “Briar? Are you okay? You’re getting pale.”

I’m fine.

I’m fine.

“Yup!” I grin as I pull her to me. I kiss her cheek, and I say, “Go be with your man.”

Before she can say anything else, I whirl around and get into my car, driving off.

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