Page 54 of Top Secret Vampire

“Reese.” He gestured toward the foyer. “I need to discuss something with you. May I come in?”

My stomach lurched as fear tumbled through me. “Do you have any information about my stalker?”

He exhaled slowly, shaking his head. “Not today. This is something else.”

Before I could process his response, a growl rumbled in Wolf's chest. “What is this about?” The protective edge in his voice wrapped around me like a shield.

“Wolf. It’s fine,” I said, but the worry coming from him transferred to me, bringing on my anxiety.

“May I come inside?” Detective Carter asked again, his tone stiff.

“Sure. Please.” I stepped back, gesturing for him to enter. The last thing I wanted was to feel cornered, but I had to know what this was about.

As he stepped in, Wolf moved in front of me and kept a careful eye on the detective.

“Come into the living room,” I said, my voice higher pitched than I liked.

He followed us inside the room.

“Sit down, both of you.” The detective waved to chairs, and my heart started slamming into my rib cage. Something was wrong.

Wolf guided me to the couch and sat, perching me on his lap. I felt safe in his arms, but everyone knew safety was a relative thing, a bubble that could pop at any moment.

“What’s this about?” I asked, trying to remain calm.

“Reese, where were you last night at approximately eight fifteen p.m.?” Detective Carter's steady gaze pinned me in place.

“I was with Wolf. We were here, together.”

He nodded, jotting something down on his phone. “Were you ever apart?”

Wolf replied before I had a chance to speak. “I left briefly to collect some belongings, and I believe it was at about that time. But I was with her prior to that and for the rest of the night.”

Detective Carter studied us both, his finger pausing above his phone. “I see.”

I leaned forward. “Wait, why does this matter?”

His eyes darkened. “Would you allow me to search your house for one specific item?”

“What?” I barked. Panic swelled inside me, compressing my throat. “What item?”

“Are you granting permission?” he asked. “May I proceed?”

I swallowed hard, glancing up at Wolf, whose expression had stiffened. “What do you think?” I said only for him.

“Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable, say no.”

“You're welcome to have a lawyer present, if you'd like,” the detective said.

“Why would I need a lawyer?” I asked. “I haven't done anything wrong.”

“This may only be a formality.” But from the sharp look in his eyes, he meant business. Cop business.

Drawing a deep breath, I nodded. “Go ahead, Detective.”

“Thank you.” He stood, and we did as well.

The detective rummaged through the living room, checking corners and under furniture, moving fast but with careful precision.

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