Page 37 of What the Shadows Hide

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“Raine,” he murmurs, like saying my name costs him.

I don’t know who moves first.

One second there’s distance; the next, his hand is at my jaw, his mouth claiming mine.

The kiss is heat and apology, desperation and promise all at once. He tastes like rain and whiskey and everything I shouldn’t want.

When he pulls back, his forehead rests against mine.

“I won’t let anything happen to you,” he whispers.

And for the first time since I came here, I believe it.

Later, when the house finally settles and the night softens, we end up tangled on the couch.

His heartbeat is slow against my back, his arm heavy across my waist.

I whisper, “Don’t go.”

“I’m not going anywhere.”

For the first time since I arrived in Shadow Falls, it feels like home. I’m warm and safe in his arms.

Sleep drags at me, pulling me under.

CHAPTER 21

Tristan

My eyes pop open,unfamiliar scenery staring back at me.

Then I remember last night.

The first thing I notice is the quiet. No soft breathing beside me. No warmth. Just sunlight spilling through the window like an accusation.

“Raine?”

Nothing.

The house feels different without her heartbeat beside mine.

I check the kitchen, the porch, the hallway—each step heavier than the last.

Then I see her. She’s down by the edge of the vineyard, hair blazing gold in the early light.

I set out after her.

When I get closer, my heartbeat slows.

My gaze drops to her hand, the white plastic and silver chain catching the sun.

Themask.

My stomach drops.

She turns when I reach her. Her eyes aren’t soft anymore. They’re shards of amber glass.

“You.” Her voice shakes. “You were the one wearing the mask.”

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