Page 41 of Done Waiting

Good question.

“Here’s what I suggest. Why don’t you stay with me instead of going to your mom’s house? For one thing, it’s safer, considering the notes and roses. Plus, you haven’t been to my apartment in a long time.”

My eyes widen, horror filling me. “Oh, Ashlynn. I don’t want to put you in danger, leading a serial killer or stalker right to your door.”

Ashlynn waves her hand. “I’m not the killer’s type. I’m a brunette with blue eyes.” She flips her hair, long chestnut locks falling over her shoulder. “Also, I’m surrounded by people since I live in a busy apartment complex. It’s risky for a stalker or serial killer to try anything without being seen.”

I nod, her logic making sense to me.

“And it will get you away from Ben and Chloe.”

Ashlynn’s making a lot of valid points.

“I’m with you about the Ben and Chloe thing. They seem to be spending a lot of time together, and if you’re getting that nagging feeling in your gut, I wouldn’t discount it.”

My muscles loosen, tension draining from me. Talking to Ashlynn has been so therapeutic. “Can I hug you? You have no idea how much I needed your logic and support.”

She’s up and out of her seat, arms outstretched. Giggling, I stand, wrapping my arms around her. “Thank you. For everything.”

She pulls back slightly, squeezing my arms. “Of course, Maddie. That’s what friends are for.” She shakes her head. “I feel bad that I’ve been so busy with classes and my internship that I haven’t been in contact as much.”

I shake my head. “Not your fault. After my dad died, well… I’ve pulled away from a lot of people. Not intentionally, but…”

Releasing me, she holds up a hand. “I get it. Grief changes you. It affected me when my grandma died. And it was you who was there for me.” Her face is chagrined. “Now it’s time for me to return the favor.”

I scoff. “We aren’t keeping score.”

She laughs. “I didn’t mean to imply that. I just meant that we’re friends, and friends are there for one another.”

Hugging her again, my shoulders feel like a weight has been lifted. I can breathe a little easier.

“Let’s go home.” Grinning at me, she links my arm with hers, and we head out to our cars.

18

THE STALKER

My brow furrows as I watch her from my motorcycle.

Why is Maddie going into her friend’s apartment with a suitcase and duffle bag?

When she turns, the same backpack she had at the coffee shop is slung on her back.

Elation fills me.

Hmmm. Maybe trouble in paradise, since it looks like she’s staying with her friend?

I watch her the rest of the day, hidden in shadows, using my binoculars to peer through Ashlynn’s windows. I’m glad she lives on the first floor. It makes it easier to see through the windows.

The two of them hang out, talking, laughing, and watching movies. They don’t leave the comfort or safety of the house. At least, not while I watched them.

Exhaustion settled in around midnight. Both girls are asleep on the couch, a movie playing on the television. My eyes are heavy, my head drooping forward. I’ve been so busy lately, and that last cop I captured fought back. After I killed his partner, he realized he was next on the list.

Heading over the mountains, I can barely keep my eyes open. The only thing that helps me stay awake is the knowledge that something is going on with her and Ben.

Parking my motorcycle in the garage once I’m home, I pull out my cell phone and call Jason.

“At least it’s 1:00 a.m. and not a 3:00 a.m. wake-up call.”

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