Page 8 of Haunt Me

The overwhelming mix of confusion and terror washed over me. Who the hell keeps following me? What does he want?

Deciding to wash away all of Caden’s sloppy kisses and ease my nerves, I opt for a much-needed shower. It’s incredible how much of an asshole he turned out to be. After ensuring each window is secure and locking every door, I finally make my way to the bathroom.

Sleep seems impossible tonight, as I dread the return of darkness and its haunting grip on my dreams. The thought of him wanting to harm me, or worse, kill me, has me hyperventilating. I desperately try to push these thoughts away, but they persistently resurface.

What the hell is happening?

Chapter 4

Argent

It's hardto believethat it has already been almost 8 years since I last set foot in Chicago. I remember it like it was yesterday. I was leaving behind a life that I had known for years, and heading to a new city with new opportunities. But now, as I find myself back here, I can't help but feel a sense of sadness and regret. There's not much left for me here, and it's not like I wanted to come back. My parents hate me, and I only have one good friend left. It's a lonely feeling, being back in a city that once held so much promise. But I have business to attend to here. So, here I am.

Being one of three business partners that run an illegal business operation can be quite tricky.Operating the smuggling of drugs, as well as weapons in and out of the country has its obstacles.

It's not an ethical way to earn a living, but it definitely pays the bills and so much more.

Throughout my childhood, I struggled with mental health issues that often landed me in various institutions and facilities designed for troubled youth. As a result, I found it difficult to fit into the traditional mold of a successful career, such as becoming a doctor or a lawyer. Whenever I acted out or caused any inconvenience, my parents would send me away to these facilities, which only reinforced my belief that I didn't belong in the mainstream. Now, I've come to accept my unconventional path.

Besides work, the other reason I’m back is because it’s my best friend, Adrian’s birthday. And of course, when I told him I was coming, he told everyone he knew.

I wasn’t halfway into the city yet when I received a text message from an old flame. She would say that we were dating, but I beg to differ. She was just a fun fuck now and then. She knew that and was perfectly fine with it.

She asked me to meet her at The Diner Shop so we can catch up. I think we both know what that means. I never replied, I already have my eye set on someone that I’ll not be able to let go of anytime soon.

Pulling up into the parking lot of the diner, I see her.

My eyes are immediately drawn to her graceful figure. She is walking towards the diner, her steps so light and effortless that she seems to be dancing. Her beautiful copper-brown hair is flowing down her back in waves, framing her lovely face. I notice that she is wearing a bubblegum pink headband, which adds a touch of playfulness to her overall look. Her 50s-style pink dress is simply stunning, hugging her curves in all the right places and showing off her perfect petite body.

As I watched her move, I found myself completely captivated. When she dropped something on the ground and turned slightly to pick it up, I caught a glimpse of her face, and it was nothing short of breathtaking. With her high cheekbones, full lips, and sparkling eyes, she was the epitome of beauty. While it wasn't the first time I'd seen her, I never thought I would have the chance to see her again. Especially afterlast night, I thought she would be hiding in her room, too scared to come out.

She looked incredible last night—wearing an olive green dress that hugged her gorgeous figure perfectly. All I could think about was ripping that tight little dress off and claiming every inch of her body.

I couldn't take my eyes off her all night. She moved her hips on the dancefloor with such grace and fluidity. When I saw another man touching her, being too close, and making her smile, I felt a pang of jealousy almost overwhelming me and I nearly lost it. I was ready to rip his head from his body. Instead, I made her aware of my presence, and the terrifying look in her beautiful hazel eyes, had my cock hardening.

I recall seeing her for the very first time with Chloe when I passed by her house. She was stunningly beautiful and her presence captivated me from the moment I laid eyes on her. When I climbed through her window, she was sound asleep and I couldn't help but admire her as she laid there, her hair splayed across the pillow. I remember feeling a rush of excitement and desire course through my veins at the sight of her. I left her a little note to wake up to, just to let her know thatI was watching her. It was my way of planting a little seed in her mind.

As I sit in my car, I can't help but admire the stunning beauty of the woman I see through the window. She's working in the diner, serving customers with a smile that seems to come effortlessly.

I take one last glance at the diner girl and I can't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. She's mine now, or at least she will be soon.

But for now, I have some business to attend to. I'll have to put my obsession on hold for just a little while longer.

I got a call from one of my partners, Joe, wanting to see me. It’s urgent, so I’m heading to the warehouse right now. Sighing, I wonder what those assholes manage to fuck up this time.

The warehouse is an old abandoned factory in a remote location, about a 15-minute drive out of the city.

As I pull up to the warehouse, I am greeted by two burly guards stationed outside. The gates are old and rusty, creaking as they are opened to let me pass. Thebuilding itself is situated in a very isolated area, surrounded by pale yellow grass that stands taller than six feet.

As I drive closer, I can't help but notice the dusty windows and the occasional broken one, hinting at a lack of maintenance. The paint on the walls is peeling off, revealing the raw concrete underneath. Rust covers the unpainted parts of the building, and holes decorate the roof. The overall appearance of the warehouse is not reassuring, as it looks like this place is on the verge of collapsing at any moment.

I park my car a few feet away from the front entrance of the factory and walk up to the door, knocking three times. The door slides open and another four armed guards await on the other side. I stroll past them—just getting nods from each as a response.

“Pierce! Thank god you’re here.” Searching for the source of the voice, I see it’s one of my partners, Joe Riley.

“Jesus, Joe. You look like shit.” Knitting my eyebrows together as I look him up and down. He’s sweaty and reeks of cigar smoke and whiskey. I’m sure as fuck not shaking his hand right now.

“Well, with good reason. The inflow of cash is getting low. We have more product than we do money, which means—we aren’t getting enough supplies out.”

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