Page 28 of Toxic

She stands abruptly, moving toward the window. I follow, drawn to her like a shark to blood in the water. “You can’t control everything,” she says softly, looking out over the city.

I press against her back, caging her between my body and the glass. “Control keeps people alive in our world,” I respond, my hands settling on her hips. “I can’t protect you if I don’t know the whole story.”

“Maybe I don’t need protecting,” she whispers, but I feel the way she leans into me, contradicting her words.

Later as moonlight paints shadows across our tangled bodies, Devin’s voice breaks the silence. “Do you ever feel trapped?”

I turn to look at her, struck by the vulnerability in her tone. It’s a crack in her armor, one I’m all too eager to exploit. “What do you mean?”

“Like no matter where you go, you’re confined by expectations, by the walls you’ve built,” she explains, her gaze fixed on the ceiling.

I reach out, tracing the line of her jaw with my fingertips. “I know that feeling all too well,” I admit, the honesty surprising even me. “Control can become its own kind of prison.”

Devin sighs, the sound heavy with unspoken burdens. “Sometimes I wonder if it’s worth it—the secrets, the constant vigilance.”

I pull her closer, relishing the feel of her skin against mine. “We all wear masks to protect ourselves,” I say softly. “But maybe it’s time to let someone in.”

She looks at me, conflict swirling in the depths of her eyes. “Easier said than done,” she replies, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Perhaps we can start by being honest with each other,” I suggest, my tone sincere. It’s a calculated risk, this offer of vulnerability. But I know Devin well enough by now to see the lie in her eager nod, the insincerity in her quick agreement.

“No more half-truths,” I propose, watching her face carefully. “No more evasion.”

“Agreed,” she concedes, but I catch the slight tightening around her eyes, the almost imperceptible tension in her jaw. She’s lying, and we both know it.

As we settle back into bed, a supposed new understanding between us, I find myself analyzing every word, every gesture. Devin thinks she’s won this round, that she’s placated me with promises of honesty. But I’ve spent a lifetime reading people, deciphering the language of body and breath. She’s an open book to me, every page screaming of secrets yet untold.

I pull her closer, my hand splaying possessively across her stomach. She melts into me, her body betraying what her words won’t. This push and pull between us, this dance of truth and lies—it’s intoxicating. Dangerous. Addictive.

“I’ve been used to handling things alone,” I murmur against her skin, feeling her shiver in response. “It’s not easy for me to rely on others.”

“You’re not the only one,” Devin responds softly, her fingers intertwining with mine. “Maybe we can learn together.”

I smile in the darkness, knowing she can’t see the predatory edge to it. “I’d like that,” I say, sealing the words with a kiss that’s equal parts promise and threat.

FOURTEEN

The sleek black car glides to a stop in front of the West family estate. I take a deep breath, steeling myself for the evening ahead. Hawk’s hand finds mine, a gentle squeeze offering silent support. His touch grounds me, a reminder that I’m not the same vulnerable girl I once was.

“Ready?” Hawk asks, his gray eyes searching mine.

I nod, allowing a small smile to curve my lips. “As I’ll ever be.”

We step out into the cool evening air, the grand mansion looming before us. Crystal chandeliers sparkle through towering windows, casting a warm glow on the immaculately manicured lawns. The soft strains of a string quartet drift across the grounds, mingling with the low hum of conversation and the clink of champagne flutes.

Hawk offers his arm, and I take it, my fingers curling around the crisp fabric of his tuxedo. As we ascend the marble steps, I scan the crowd for a familiar face. My heart lightens when I spot Olivia, her honey-blonde waves unmistakable even from a distance.

“I see Olivia,” I murmur to Hawk. “I should go say hello.”

He nods, a hint of warmth softening his usually stoic expression. “Of course. I’ll find you later.”

I make my way through the throng of guests, many of whom turn to whisper as I pass. The weight of their stares prickles at my skin, but I keep my chin high refusing to show any sign of discomfort.

“Devin!” Olivia’s warm voice cuts through the noise, and suddenly she’s there, wrapping me in a tight embrace. “I’m so glad you’re here. How are you holding up?”

I return the hug, allowing myself a moment of genuine comfort in my best friend’s arms. “I’m managing,” I reply softly, pulling back to meet her concerned gaze. “Thanks for checking in on me the other day. Lunch was... a much-needed break.”

Olivia’s eyes, so similar to her brother’s, search my face. “Of course. That’s what best friends are for, right?” She lowers her voice, glancing around to ensure we’re not overheard. “Have you told Hawk about...”

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