Page 17 of Not Her Day to Die (Star-Crossed #2)

“ H ey Rick.” My smile is tight against my teeth. I know the brothers are just out of sight. I know Jane is with them. “What are you still doing here? I thought you left a bit ago.”

They promised they wouldn’t intervene. But I imagine if I put up a fight, they will. They won’t be able to handle it.

“I was going to, but then I was worried about you out here alone and wanted to make sure you made it home.” He lifts his lips in a way that I think is meant to be comforting, but the light shining off his yellowed teeth has the opposite effect.

“I appreciate it! But I’m all set! Thank you.” As best as I can, I walk casually to my vehicle. Rick’s SUV is parked right beside it, and he stands on the driver’s side of the truck, nearly blocking me.

Faster than I expect him to move, he lashes out.

A needle goes into my neck. My world twists and dims.

And just like that, I become the prey.

The Little Lamb.