Page 64 of Cat and Mouse

Then, the sound of footsteps outside my door jolt me upright. My heart races, and I grip the couch arm like it's a lifeline. I strain my ears.

They're getting closer, more than one set.

"Fuck," I whisper.

I slowly inch my way to the kitchen, hoping to stay quiet. I grab a knife from the counter, my hands shaking. This is a horrible idea, but I have to defend myself.

"Come on, Liz. Think," I hiss under my breath.

Suddenly, the front door bursts open. Two men flood in, wearing dark clothes and masks. My blood runs cold, and I stumble back, nearly dropping the knife.

"Where is she?" one of them growls.

I back away, ducking low, my adrenaline surging.

"Shut up!" the second guy snaps, his eyes scanning the room. "She has to be here."

My mind races. I need to get out. Fast. I dart out the other entrance to the kitchen and into the hallway, my heart hammering. I hear them curse and stomp around. I rush to the bathroom and slip inside, soundlessly closing the door as I hear their voices getting closer.

"Where is she?"

"Check the bedroom!"

I clutch the knife tight, holding my breath. They're in my apartment, and I'm trapped. I can't die here. Not like this.

I pull out my phone, my hands shaking as I dial Leo's number. I need him. Now.

"Come on, pick up," I mumble, pressing the phone to my ear.

"Hello?" His voice is a low rumble.

"Leo!" I whisper-yell. "I need you. I'm in trouble."

"What's wrong?"

"They're in my house!" I glance at the door, heart racing. "Two guys. I think they're here for me."

"Stay calm. Where are you?"

"In the bathroom," I say, glancing at the door again. "I don't know what to do."

"Just stay quiet. I'll be there."

The line goes dead, and I feel a wave of relief mixed with dread.

I hear footsteps getting closer, and I bite my lip, trying to keep quiet.

"Shit," one of the guys says. "I could have sworn she was here."

"Search the bathroom," the other one replies, and my heart sinks.

I can't let them find me. I back up into the shower, praying they don't check here. The doorknob rattles, and I hold my breath.

"Dude, she's not here. She must have slipped out."

"Search the damn apartment!"

They're getting closer. My fingers tremble around the knife, and I can't think straight.

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