Page 307 of The Sinner: James

It feels as if I just woke up from a dream, and I see and feel everything for the first time as the images of the last hour spin in front of my eyes, and I’m trying to control my emotions.

It’s hard not to get attached to the idea that I may be able to sway her back.

Tense and torn, and excited like a teenager, I make the trip back to her friend’s party.

This time I park my car in the front and catch sight of Eve as soon as I saunter into the building.

I beckon her to me.

“Hey,” she says, stopping in front of me, her cheeks flushed. “How was it? Was she angry? Where is she?”

“She’s at the Dark House. She’ll stay there for the rest of the week.”

A questioning look slides over her face.

“Is she okay?”

“Yes. Don’t worry. She’s not angry with you,” I say, smiling. “I’m still her number one target when it comes to anger,” I add, and she grins, amused. “Thank you again. You’ve helped me a lot. ”

More blood pools into her face as I kiss her cheek.

I thank her parents for their hospitality and say goodbye to them before I shake hands with Sam and walk away.

Lightheartedly, I climb into my car and swerve onto the road, leaving the venue behind.

Twenty minutes later, I enter Red’s.

“Sir.”

The bouncers give me a soft nod as I swing past them and walk to our booth.

Lex’s blonde hair catches my eye first, and then Ed’s profile.

They both try to decipher my expression as I slide onto the bench across from them.

“Where is she?” Lex asks, his eyes connecting with mine.

“The Dark House,” I say, leaning back in my seat and motioning for a drink.

The hostess takes the order and quickly pulls away.

“How does she look?” Ed asks.

I glower at him.

Lex's hand lands on Ed’s neck, a grin tugging at his lips.

“Don’t fuck with him right now, Ed. Unless you have a death wish, leave him alone,” Lex jokes.

My tension shatters, and my lips tilt into a smile.

“Take his fucking advice, Ed,” I toss at him just as the waitress nears our table and sets my glass of whiskey down.

“Anyone else?” I ask, looking at the empty glasses in front of them.

“We’re good,” Lex says.

The girl spins away.

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