Page 41 of Craving Danger

I have a couple of burner phones at the house. I’ll send her text messages, that way, my identity will remain anonymous.

Chapter 14

Samantha

Sitting in my living room, instead of sleeping, I stare at my phone.

This really could’ve waited until tomorrow, and he’ll return your call tomorrow. Go. To. Sleep!

When a message comes through, I grab the device and quickly open it.

You asked me to call. Is everything okay?

“Shit,” I mutter.

I type my reply and press send.

I’m sorry for bothering you like this. We can talk tomorrow. I don’t want to keep you up.

While I program the number under MMM, another text comes through.

MMM: You’re not keeping me up. What’s wrong?

Samantha: I just wanted to ask you something.

MMM: What?

I hesitate for a moment before I type out the question.

Samantha: Do you do house calls?

MMM: Why?

Samantha: I’m worried the club is giving me a false sense of security, and while I think I’m getting better, I’m actually making no progress at all. I want to test the theory.

Feeling like I’m asking too much, I quickly add another text.

Samantha: Don’t feel obligated in any way. I’ll understand if you say no.

MMM: When do you want me to come over?

Samantha: When are you free?

MMM: Now.

My eyes go wide as saucers, and my heartbeat sets off at a crazy pace.

This is why I reached out to him. Chickening out will make me look childish. Before I can change my mind, I send my reply.

Samantha: Okay.

When I put my phone down on the coffee table, the thought crosses my mind that I’m going to be dead tired at work.

I wonder if Mr. Vitale will have an aneurysm if I call in sick?

Probably.

I get up from the couch, and when I walk into my bedroom, I see my reflection in the mirror.

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