Page 21 of Heart Thief

Ryker was right. Zane’s first impression lulls me into thinking he’s decent. A chill wanders up my spine. I shouldn’t be doing this.

The thing is, I’ve never been okay with someone telling me how I should feel about another human being. I think that’s my decision to make.

I walk into the living room and toss my lovely faux-leather purse on the couch, faking nonchalance. I follow, letting the soft cushions engulf my body. My earlier exhaustion is remembered.

“Living dangerously, huh?” he says.

We’re like two predators circling around, unsure of what the other will do.

My stomach tightens from the thrill. “You have no idea.”

chapter eight

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I RECEIVE Atext from Ryker early the next morning, just as I’m about to begin practicing.

Ryker:ZANE IS THERE?

Me:Are you yelling at me?

Ryker:No.

Me:Yes, the devil is here. Did you feel him invading your space all the way from Japan?

Ryker:Mom told me.

Me:Is she spying on me?

That would be just like her. Making sure I’m faithful or something.

Ryker:No, she keeps an eye on Zane.

Me:Really? You know that’s weird, right?

Ryker:Don’t worry about it. I’ll take care of it.

Me:It’s no problem. He won’t be here long.

My phone rings almost immediately after I send my last text.

“I’m so sorry, Mila. I didn’t expect him to show up.”

Apparently, no one did. “Neither did I. It gave me quite the surprise. I nearly called 911. Scared me to death.”

“I’m sorry, sweetheart. I hope he hasn’t been horrible to you.”

“Not at all. Once everything was cleared up, we had pizza and watched a movie. It’s fine.”

Silence greets me for a full thirty seconds. “You and Zane watched a movie together?” he asks, alarm invading his voice.

“We did. He was very kind. He only tried to attack me twice.”

“Don’t trust him, Mila. It’s all a show. Underneath his façade, he’s a snake.”

I don’t see it, but I haven’t even known him for twenty-four hours. Ryker has a lifetime on me. We sat on the couch last night, two feet apart, eating pizza and watching a movie for several hours. He didn’t do anything untoward. He fell asleep and missed the ending of the movie, so I didn’t exactly feel threatened. I tossed a throw blanket over him—or maybe at him—and went to bed in my own room with the door locked for good measure. I can’t say I trust the guy, but a foundation has begun. If he keeps his distance, everything will be fine. My guard will be up whenever he’s around, that’s for sure.

“Duly warned. I’ll draw a line down your floor. His side and my side. If he crosses it, I’ll have him summarily executed by morning.”

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