Page 119 of Dare To Live

How often had I done this? Had he always followed behind me.

I glance toward the wall surrounding the cemetery in the dark. My heart is hammering against my ribs, and I can’t help but be jumpy. It’s just us out here. I’m tempted to come out of my hiding place, but I don’t. Lifting my phone, I shoot off another message.

Me: Go.

Eli checks his cell when it chimes.

Eli: At least keep pace with me.

Me: I’ll be right behind you.

Eli: That is not what I meant.

Me: That’s all you’re getting.

Eli: You’re so fucking stubborn. Fine, but text me when you get into the dorm.

Me: Ok.

Phone clutched in my hand, I wait until he walks away from the bench, and then follow him. Pace slow, I huddle deeper in my hoodie, keeping him in view the whole journey along the path in the dark. Knowing he’s right there and will come if I call eases some of my worries about being outside in the dark.

I stop by the tree line and watch while he strolls across the grass toward the dorm building.

Is he deliberately going slowly so I’ll catch him up? He knows this isn’t how it’s supposed to work. I never got glimpses of him as Sin.

A twig snaps behind me, and the sound is enough to send my heart leaping up into my throat.

“Shit.”

My legs move, and I take off toward the school. I don’t stop until I reach the safety of the dorm. With a nervous glance over my shoulder, I chastise myself.

There are no scary monsters lurking in the shadows. It was probably an animal.

Puffing out a little breath, I flatten a hand over my racing heart. When I enter the building, I see Eli disappearing up the stairs.

Was he waiting for me?

I hang around for a couple of minutes before I venture up to my floor. There’s no sign of anyone and I reach my door without interruption. I slip inside and flip on the light, making sure to lock the door behind me. I’ve barely kicked off my sneakers before I’m typing Eli a text.

Me: I’m in my room.

The dots undulate below my message.

Eli: Good.

I sink onto the edge of my bed, chewing my lip.

Is he disappointed with how quickly our meeting ended?

I should have done more. I wanted to make it as exciting for him as it was for me when I used to meet him as Sin.

An idea hits me. I stretch out on the bed and type out a text.

Me: Were you hard when you were standing by the bench, and I was touching you? I want you to touch yourself. Close your eyes and pretend it’s me. Make yourself come. Red or green, my Nasty Little Monster?

Chapter 66

Eli

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