Page 36 of Right Number, Wrong Man

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Me

Not yet.

Hailey

We sexted *once* and I don’t even know your name. I don’t know where you’re from or what you do. In short, I know nothing about you, but you’re making it sound like we’re exclusive.

For all I know you’re some crazy serial killer.

Me

Does it help if I promise that I’m not a serial killer?

Hailey

No, that’s exactly what a serial killer would say! How do I know you won’t abduct me in a dark parking lot and turn my face into a lampshade?

Me

What if I promise it’s gonna be a really tasteful, beautiful lampshade?

Hailey

EWWW!! How could a human skin lampshade be beautiful????

Me

Easy. Cause your face is beautiful.

Hailey

…

Me

Too creepy?

Hailey

YEAH TOO CREEPY!!

Snickering, I stroll to the window, putting the phone onthe windowsill. I hide behind the curtains to pick up my rifle and peek through the scope.

It seems I caught Hailey after her morning shower. She sits on the bed with a towel wrapped around her body, wet hair hanging into her face as she looks at her phone. Pink tints her cheeks and I wonder if the water was too hot or if it’s me making her blush. Hopefully the latter.

I put the rifle down to type. Time to introduce my new persona, but I’ll stick as close to the truth as I can. Easier to remember the lies that way.

Me

My name’s Jackson, but you can call me Jax. I’m from Dallas, Texas and I’m in my thirties. I run a small business.

Hailey

Nice to meet you, Jax!

Me

You’re not gonna tell me anything about yourself?

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