Page 20 of Hollyhocks

When she finally comes to a stop, her body is contorted in ways no one could survive. Blood pools around her. Her bones protrude out of her limbs. A rib pierces her chest. Her head is bashed in, bits of her brain scattered along the quaint hometown road where nothing bad ever happens.

Until I arrived.

Now, she won’t be able to think or dream of my mate.

“Oh my God!” A voice from behind me has me schooling my features.

This is all so exhausting. I’m annoyed. Why can’t I celebrate death in peace?

“This is terrible. Did you see what happened?” the woman with bright pink hair asks, staring at the wreckage.

“I did. That man lost control of his car and died, and I think she knew him? She walked right in front of traffic. Maybe she didn’t want to be without him.” There’s something different about her scent.

It’s wild and a claim has been put on her. I’m not sure by whom. Maybe the guy who owns Snapdragons Garage. I noticed he was a monster too.

“That’s so sad. How terrible. You saw it happen?”

“I did. It was brutal.” And fucking amazing.

Let’s do it again!

“Oh my God, you must be in shock. Do you want a coffee? On the house. You’re a witness so I can get Jake, the Sheriff, here to ask you some questions just to get it out of the way.”

“I appreciate that, but I have an appointment actually. With the traffic, I need to get going. Maybe another time I can take you up on your offer?” I don’t know if I trust her, but she smells trustworthy. If she is mated to someone like me, she has to be.

I’ll keep an eye on her.

“Of course. When you come by, ask for Demi.” She holds out her hand.

I shake the small dainty palm, careful not to break it with my strength. “I’m Holly.”

“It’s nice to meet you. I’m sorry you had to see such a terrible accident today.”

I’m ready to see more.

“Thank you. I’ll be alright.” Because I’m going to follow Fitz to his house and make myself at home. “It was nice meeting you too, Demi. I’m sure we will see each other again since I just moved to town.”

She smiles and it irks me how much her happiness doesn’t bother me.

“Well, welcome. We are so happy to have you. I hope you have a good rest of your day.”

I climb into my van and reverse out of the parking spot. I pull out onto the road, passing Lily’s body before she is covered with a tarp.

I’ve put my mark on this town. They have no idea what is coming for them if I don’t have Fitz. It’s a dangerous world out here.

So much violence. So much anger. So much revenge.

Every single ounce has been placed inside me and I’m ready to distribute every last drop of it until Fitz is in my arms and accepting of my love.

Hewilllove me.

I don’t care what I need to do to make that happen. His love is the only emotion that will balance me.

And I’ll stop at nothing to get it.

“No, I just pulled into the driveway, Rhett. I’m exhausted. I’ll worry about getting the rest of my things tomorrow, okay?” I rub my eyes from how exhausted I am, hoping it helps me keep from falling asleep mid-conversation.

“Alright, if you’re sure,” Rhett says, clicking his tongue. “Are you okay? You sound more than exhausted.”

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