Page 75 of As Thick As Thieves

“I’m okay. I’m glad you told me,” I replied quietly, a smile spreading across his face.

“I’ll call you if I find out anything about who’s after you. Be careful, okay?”

“You too,” I said firmly, noticing Drake was sleeping beside me. After everyone’s napping yesterday, we’d all thrown our sleep schedules out, and despite it being early, we’d all been awake for hours.

The moment Zavier left, I pulled my phone out to find another text from Stone.

Stone: Are you worried about me, Princess?

Penn: Believe it or not, but I don’t wish death upon you.

Stone: What are you doing right now? Someone unplugged the computer so I can’t spy on you.

I glanced at the computer, noticing the plug on the floor.

Penn: Watching a movie. Drake’s asleep and everyone else went out. What are you doing?

It felt weird texting with him, but my leg bounced anxiously as I awaited a reply. Every time he went quiet, I panicked that he was bleeding out or something.

Stone: Watching the security outside your house.

Penn: Why?

Stone: To make sure you’re safe.

Butterflies fluttered in my stomach, and a moment later a photo came through of his desk, multiple screens all showing different angles of the house.

Stone: I meant what I said. I’ve got your back.

Penn: Is it stupid that I almost believe you?

Stone: I think it’s good that you can trust after you’ve been burned. Means you’re not as fucked up as you think you are.

I considered putting my phone away, but I wanted to take advantage of him talking to me.

Penn: Tell me a secret.

I wasn’t expecting his answer.

Stone: I came in my fucking hand three times over you in the last twenty-four hours.

I stared at the message, not knowing how to reply. Was he teasing me? He had to be.

Penn: Doubtful.

Stone: Why would I lie? Your turn. Tell me a secret.

My brow creased as I read the message a second time. I didn’t really have any secrets, they knew everything about me.

Penn: I like that you watch me.

Stone: Noted.

Drake shifted, and I slipped my phone into my pocket quickly, and I tried to tell myself I was doing nothing wrong, but it was hard.

He sat up and blinked at me, giving me a dopey smile. “Hey, was I out long?”

“Not really.”

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