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Together, they root through the colorful candy wrappers until they find the one they want. Holding it up like a trophy, Shelby thanks Riley again with a tight hug.

Releasing my daughter, she turns to envelop me too.

“Thank you for letting me tag along. It was fun, and I really needed this.”

Her body pulls away from mine far too quickly, but given the movement in my pants, it’s probably for the best.

As I watch her disappear into her home, my cock stays awake. Stirring at what is to come. After tonight, this year will be different. I’m not waiting another year to touch her again.

I want her. In my home, in my bed, in my life.

After tonight, everything changes.

Happy Halloween, baby.

CHAPTER FOUR

Shelby

Pulling the cork from the bottle, I can’t fight my smile.

Pouring a little into the glass, I take a small sip.

“Hmm,” I hum in approval.

Of course it’s good, as if Dr. Moore would gift a wine that was anything but.

Topping up my own glass, I move on to the other four. Leonard’s earlier words clatter around my head.

“No more than one glass of wine.”

I still feel the heat of his touch on my chin. He’d forced my gaze to his and made me repeat his words. He’d said the wine was a thank you for trick-or-treating, but I think he just didn’t want us getting drunk on cheap wine and making a lot of noise.

Not that I would. I’m a good neighbor, or at least I try to be. The thought of Leonard being disappointed or angry with me makes my stomach hurt. So one glass it is.

Carefully, I join my friends in the living room.Jigsawis paused and ready to go on the television.

“Wine?” Edward frowns.

“Yeah.” I nod. “There are a few beers in the fridge if you want them?”

“He’ll take the wine. Thank you.” Emma smiles, taking two glasses from me. Passing one to the man slouched behind her, the blonde elbows her boyfriend.

“Wine’s perfect. Thank you, Shelby.”

Laughing, I pass Joe and Mark theirs before sitting on the other sofa opposite the armchair Joe and his boyfriend share.

How am I fifth wheeling at my own party?

Kitty.

According to Edward, Kitty went all out in spreading the word of her own get-together, which was being hosted at her boyfriend’s house.

But the truth is, I don’t mind. The only two people I’d want here who aren’t are Sam and my mystery man.

The two couples who did show up were more than happy with food, alcohol, and scary films.

Sipping my wine, I tug down the throw from behind me and tuck my feet under myself.