Page 94 of Crimson Promises
“Nothing, ma’am. Your boyfriend already took care of it.”
“He’s not—” It wasn’t worth my breath trying to explain. “Thank you.”
“Enjoy your evening, both of you. To be young and in love,” he sighed.
I don’t know what part of that ride made him think we were in love. We sat on opposite ends of the backseat.
The driver had pulled up in front of my building. Ben was seated closest to the curb. He got out first and held the door open for me. I looked out the other end, determined to get out on my own side, but the rush of cars refused to let that be an option. I scooted to the other side of the vehicle, my slicked palms leaving handprints on the black leather seats.
Ben shut the car door behind me, and I twisted around as the driver rolled down his window. Maybe Ben didn’t tip?
“Please don’t forget to leave your feedback and rating,” he said before driving off.
I took a step towards my building.
The awareness of his presence throbbed behind me. Even after everything, my body responded to his like a snake hypnotized by the flute.
“Thanks for getting me home safe and sound. Vic’s on duty.” I pointed my thumb over my shoulder.
“He definitely isn’t someone you want to mess with," Ben winked at me.
I smiled awkwardly.
Ben swayed there from side to side, hands deep in his pockets. “Take your time.” He took one hand out and traced from the center of my hairline to the shell of my ear, down to the nape of my neck.
Like an idiot, I stood there, closing my eyes, leaning into his touch.
All too soon, I felt the absence of his presence, like a starless night stealing the moon's glow.
He backed away, eyes locked on to mine until he blended into the night.
I gulped and headed towards home.
“Ms. James, nice to see you,” Vic called. “Why are your eyes all misty?”
I swiped at them. “I was at the beach earlier. I must have gotten some sand in them. I’m going to head up and try and wash it out.” I didn’t mean to be short. I usually looked forward to my rapport with Vic, but tonight, I didn’t want to talk to another soul. Sleep beckoned me.
Vic nodded. “Of course, you take care of yourself. I’ll see you soon. Don’t be afraid to holler if you need anything.”
My heart swelled at his kindness. I leaned forward to give him a peck on the cheek. “Thank you, I will.”
Finally, home.
I slid the locks in place as routine. I kicked off my shoes and dropped my bag at the door. I’ll worry about those tomorrow.
Walking into the washroom, I stripped off my clothes and groaned when I shucked off my bra. The. Greatest. Feeling. Ever. After pulling on a set of silk pajamas, I entered the washroom and checked the mirror. The woman staring back at me looked like she had survived a tornado. My hair was windswept and tangled, my eyes were glazed and unfocused, and my lips were red from gnawing on them all day.
I splashed cool water on my face, wiped off my makeup, and brushed my teeth. No energy for a shower. I smelled like a mix of Chinese takeout, vomit, and sand. A winning combination, indeed.
As soon as the duvet landed on my shoulders, I drifted to sleep.
* * *
Deep into the night, the pair of red eyes found me again. This time, I was running through a maze. The walls were composed of hedges at least nine feet tall, impossible for me to see over for a way out. Every exit I took brought me back to the center, where it waited for me.
“No matter where you run or hide, I will find you,” the voice snickered. The red eyes mocked with satisfaction as if it had me right where it wanted me. “It’s only a matter of time," it called.
I woke up screaming. Gasping for breath.
