Page 38 of Runaway Hearts: Seduced by Danger

Pretend

Tucked away on a quiet street near the bustling marina, a charming semi-detached house stands proudly under the late afternoon sun. Its yellow exterior and porch catch my eye as I approach. The well-kept lawn, vibrant flower beds, and the gentle sway of a wind chime by the door add to its welcoming aura. And the red front door adds a pop of color against the blue summer sky.

This place puts me at ease—my first home.

I step through the door, announcing my arrival with a cheerful voice. “I’m home!”

The scent of fresh coffee wafts from the kitchen, mingling with the familiar aroma of vanilla that always lingers in this house. Rays of sunlight filter through the tulle curtains, casting soft patterns on the hardwood floors.

Stepping farther inside, I kick off my shoes. Family photos line the walls, capturing moments of laughter and love. Nothing has changed in two years.

Despite the slight unease from last night’s events, being here washes it all away. I made the right move.

And yet, amid this comforting familiarity, a nagging thought tugs at the edges of my mind. A desire to see Kai again, to unravel the mysteries that surround him. The pull is inexplicable, magnetic.

I should’ve never let him go. I’m an idiot.

“Sorry for the delay. I had some unforeseen circumstances,” I shout.

But as I reach the last stair to the living room, I’m nailed to the spot, and all the air exits my lungs in one noisy swoosh.

What is he doing here?

Kai stands tall, his jaw tense and eyes bright, with his jacket thrown over the banister.

“Oh, Marianne! What a joy to see you! Your boyfriend couldn’t wait any longer,” says Nina.

Boyfriend? He’s way out of my league.

“Marianne,” whispers Kai. His rich voice envelops me with relief, and my spirit soars.

I forced a smile, aware that the intruding man was analyzing each movement. The Jaws soundtrack played in my mind.

Bite me, Kai.

But my aunt moves in, breaking the built-up tension.

“Aren’t you glad your boyfriend’s here, my chickadee?” she asks.

“Huh, I…” Frozen like a nose icicle in minus forty temperature.

My aunt is a vision with her cherry-red hair and warm smile. Her amber eyes sparkle with kindness, and her voice soothes troubled souls. Her presence fills the room with comfort.

I missed her.

Kai stares at me with an evil smirk, causing my pulse to race. He comes closer, fixated on my lips as if he’s going in for a kiss. I’m scaredand thrilled by the idea. My mind races for an escape, but I’m stuck in his gaze as his eyes drop to my mouth.

Is this even real?

As instantly as he leans over me and touches my cheek with his lips, I relax. Nina lets out an “aww.”

However, as I wonder if he’ll kiss my lips, his stubbled cheek scrapes mine in a delectable brush and he whispers, “Don’t ever leave me again. I was scared I wouldn’t find you.”

How did you do it?

I squeal. “What are you doing here?”

“Surprise,” he whispers in my ear and kisses the tender patch of skin there.

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