Page 46 of Stalker's Toy

I take a deep breath, trying to calm myself.

"You're safe now," I whisper, but the words ring hollow in the empty hallway.

I climb the stairs to my flat, still feeling unsettled.

My hands tremble slightly as I unlock the door and step inside.

The warm glow of our living room lamp washes over me, and I let out a shaky breath.

Larsa's curled up on the couch, a worn paperback in her hands.

She looks up as I enter, her hazel eyes widening with concern.

"Are you okay?" she asks, setting her book aside.

I force a smile, but it feels brittle on my face. "Yeah, just a bit spooked. I think I need to lie down,"

Larsa sits up straighter, her brow furrowing. "Spooked? What happened?"

I hesitate, torn between confiding in her and keeping my secrets. "It's probably nothing. Just... thought someone might've been following me."

"Following you?" Larsa's voice rises in alarm. "Did you see who it was?"

I shake my head, leaning against the wall. "No, not really. Just a shadow, maybe. I'm probably overreacting."

Larsa stands, her vintage dress swishing around her legs. "Better safe than sorry, Mia. Where were you coming from?"

The question makes my stomach clench.

I can't tell her about Henrik, aboutwhat we did.

"Just... work," I lie, the word tasting sour on my tongue.

Larsa raises an eyebrow, skepticism clear in her voice. "At this hour?"

I shrug, avoiding her gaze. "Had to finish up some things. Listen, I'm exhausted. I think I'll just head to bed."

Larsa takes a step towards me, concern etched on her delicate features. "Are you sure you're all right? You seem... off."

For a moment, I consider spilling everything—the sex with Henrik, the painting, the fear.

But the words stick in my throat. "I'm fine, really. Just need some sleep."

Larsa nods slowly, but I can see she's not convinced. "All right. But Mia? You know you can talk to me about anything, right? I’m your friend, not just some nosey flatmate."

I force another smile. "I know. Thanks, Larsa. Goodnight."

As I retreat to my bedroom, I can feel Larsa's eyes on my back.

The weight of my secrets feels heavier than ever, pressing down on my chest.

I shut the door behind me and lean against it, closing my eyes.

What have I gotten myself into?

CHAPTER SIX

Henrik

---