Page 25 of Nocturne

The deep voice startles us both. Ivy yelps, and I flinch, swivelling to find Eero sliding into the booth beside me. His audacity feels as jarring as a siren in a silent room. Ivy’s brows shoot up as my eyes land on the fries he’s pilfering from my plate.

“Eero,” I say, relief and disbelief mingling in my voice. “You’re in one piece.”

He winks, a glint of amusement softening his sharp presence. Despite myself, the knot of worry lingering since he vanished into the woods loosens.

“Wait,” Ivy cuts in, narrowing her eyes. “He’s taking you home?”

“No,” I mutter, rummaging through my bag for my keys.

Eero smirks, tilting his head my way. “You think it’s a good idea for your friend to hop on a bus or hail a cab alone at night after working late?”

Ivy’s lips part, and I glance at him, wariness creeping in.

“How do you even know I’m working late?” Ivy’s voice sharpens, suspicion flaring.

Eero’s gaze shifts to her, predatory yet amused. “I know everything, darling.”

The words ripple unease through the table. Ivy’s hand freezes halfway to her water glass.

He leans back, eyes flicking between us before landing on Ivy with hawk-like precision. “Like how you’ve picked up a shadow recently, Ms. O’Shea. A blonde freak who smiles too much—ring any bells?”

Ivy flinches, guilt flashing across her face. My jaw tightens when a blurb goes on in my head.

“That guy? The one who kept staring at you? Why didn’t you tell me?”

“He warned me not to,” Ivy sighs, avoiding my gaze.

“Smart girl.” Eero’s grin is razor-sharp. “He’s not the kind you cross. Though compared to my boss, Iblis is just a cheap parlour trick.”

“Iblis,” I repeat, voice dropping to a whisper. “Is he why you quit reporting? Why you want me to move into your neighbourhood?”

Ivy looks up, her eyes glassy with unspoken fears.

“It wasn’t just that,” she admits softly.

“She’s been looking out for you, love. You should be flattered.” Eero clicks his tongue, clearly enjoying the revelation.

“Stop it,” I snap, my tone sharper than intended, fever amplifying my frustration.

“Stop what?” His brow arches in mock innocence.

“Stop… being you.”

He chuckles low, but my retort is cut off by a coughing fit. Ivy’s instantly on her feet, pressing a palm to my forehead again.

“You need antibiotics. And rest.”

“I’ll call a cab.” I dig through my bag, movements sluggish. “Take my keys, Ivy. It’s safer if you drive.”

The morning’s carpool plan feels ridiculous now. Eero leans back, arms crossed.

“Or, I could take you home. Problem solved.”

“No, thanks.” I stagger to my feet, only for dizziness to hit.

“I wasn’t asking.” He rises, towering beside me.

“Why would I go anywhere with you?” I glare at him.

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