Page 4 of The Danger Kiss

As an afterthought, she opened her eyes, hoping to get a glimpse of the owner of the pretty voice.

Preeeeeet-ty, she repeated.

Gods, said the pretty voice. It's too late. I was too late. Damn it all. Damn them all.

She couldn't see anything. Why was the pretty voice so angry all of a sudden?

Miss, can you hear me?

Your voice is ver' preeet-ty, she answered.

Very good, miss. You're very pretty, too.

She was, inexplicably, delighted to hear that.

Miss?

Yes?

I need you to do something for me.

Okay.

I need you to trust me.

Okay!

Thank you. Do you really trust me?

Yes.

Here goes nothing, she heard the pretty voice mutter from somewhere in the darkness.

She heard a rustle of movement, then felt something touch the tip of her spine. A feeling of heat began to spread from that part of her body, rushing to every nerve, every bone and muscle.

Then the feeling went away, replaced by the sound of heavy breathing. She instinctively turned to the direction of the sound and blinked. Hard.

Colors first, then swirling shapes.

Black. Thick and wavy.

Hair.

Brown. Round and soft.

Eyes...?

Who—who are you?

The soft brown eyes blinked, startled, then turned very gentle as she stared into them.

Can you see me?

Yes. I—who are you?

I'm nobody. Don't be afraid. I won't hurt you.

Are they gone?

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