Page 38 of Dark Awakening

"WHAT?" Emily practically shouts, making me jump. Other customers glance over curiously.

I throw my napkin at her. "Shhh! Inside voices." But Emily is not having it.

"Girl, you gotta change your name, dye your hair, and flee the country! First, Tall Dark and Stalks-A-Lot is creeping outside your work like a discount Jason Voorhees. Now he's breaking into your apartment? Hard pass."

I chew my lip. I know she's right, but my curiosity has already won.

Emily grabs my hands, staring daggers. "You deserve someone who understands boundaries. This dude would absolutely boil your pet rabbit if you broke up."

I nod, cringing.

Emily's eyes narrow, her expression turning devious. She leans across the table with a salacious smirk. "Okay, real talk—is it his massive meat stick reeling you in? This freak packing serious heat down below?"

I practically choke on my wine, my cheeks flaming in shock. Trust Emily to go there! "Oh my god, you have no filter!" I hiss, mortified.

She cackles at my reaction. "What? It's a valid question! But judging by your blush, I'm guessing that's a yes..."

Before she can continue, I frantically try to change the subject. But I know Emily won't let this go anytime soon. She'll be theorizing about my stalker's dick size all night, thanks to that wildly inappropriate suggestion. So much for a nice, normal dinner!

Our vivid purple cocktails arrive, providing a welcome distraction. But after we ordered dessert, Emily firmly leaned in and grasped my arm.

"Dani, I'm really freaking worried about you. You've gotta be smart and so damn careful with Captain Creepo," she says, her brow furrowed in concern.

Despite my reckless idiocy lately, I nod slowly, genuinely grateful for her steadfast friendship. She's right—it's long past time I take real action against this dangerous vampire stalker, ending his twisted power over me once and for all.

Emily and I finish our meal with lighter chatter, the cozy atmosphere helping to lift my spirits. By the time we leave, I feel motivated and clear-minded, determined now to fully reclaim control over my life and break this dark obsession.

Emily insists on waiting with me until my car arrives, refusing to let me out of her sight. As the vehicle pulls up, she gives me a fierce, tight hug.

"Call me the second you get home safely, promise?"

I reassure her I will, genuinely touched by how much she cares. Sliding into the front seat, I feel bolstered and protected by my best friend's stalwart support. I can break free of this shadow man's disturbing hold and take back my power.

I decided that first thing tomorrow morning, I'd go straight to the police and report everything. It's past time to take real action.

But even as determination steels my mind, a small, unwelcome voice whispers traitorously in my heart—part of me thrills at his obsession with me. And though I hate to even admit it to myself, there's a dark allure to giving in to it completely...

No, I shake away that dangerous thought. I don't really want that; I need to stay strong. I can and will break his twisted control for good.

Steaming water cascades over me in the shower, but my thoughts churn restlessly.

He assumes I'm his plaything, available on demand. Ha! I'm nobody's toy. If he shows up tonight, I'll set him straight. The thrill of that possibility battles my indignation.

His unexpected kiss haunts me. A part of me wants to kiss him again and bang him with a frying pan! I must be losing my mind with this maddening push and pull. What's happening to me?

Stepping out, I wrap myself in a plush towel, scrutinizing my reflection. So much weighs on me—the stalker, the glowing hands, my astonishing blood test results. I comb through my damp hair contemplatively as potential revelations swirl.

Slipping into a midnight blue chemise, the silky caress on my skin feels delicate and sensual. My nipples harden against the clingy fabric, accentuating my curves. My jewelry gleams softly as I recline on the bed, letting the plushness envelop me.

Glancing at the clock, I'm surprised at how late it is. Exhaustion tugs at me, but my racing mind refuses to rest. I reach for my phone almost desperately, hoping for his message.

Disappointment sinks in as my screen remains empty. Confusion and frustration wash over me. What is he doing when not hounding me? My curiosity burns despite my better judgment.

How does one protect themselves from vampires once invited inside? The thought flashes oddly. I will make a mental note to research this concept later.

Do I want to uninvite him?

As slumber embraces me, I find myself in a candlelit stone chamber in a gossamer gown. Strange symbols decorate the walls and floor. My heart pounds. Where am I?

---