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PROLOGUE

Halloween - Friday Night

T aking slow, deliberate breaths, I crouch behind a tree, trying to steady the wild beating of my heart. The Halloween night air is thick with the scent of fallen leaves and wood smoke, a reminder that this isn’t just any night. I thought fear would consume me. Instead, it's the adrenaline and pure excitement that pulses through my veins. And something else—arousal. I can't even remember the last time I felt this turned on.

Leaning my head back against the rough bark, I inhale deeply, the cool autumn air a welcome contrast to the warmth flooding my body. The last remnants of summer have finally given way, leaving the night refreshingly crisp. Despite wearing nothing but a matching black lace set, I feel warm—warm with anticipation.

I shift slightly, the lace brushing against my skin, heightening my awareness of every sensation. The anticipation is nearly unbearable, a tight coil of need winding inside me. I can’t stay hidden forever, and part of me doesn’t want to. The thrill is in the chase, but what comes after… that’s what I crave.

Another deep breath, and I push myself up from my crouch, peering around the tree. The full moon, brighter and more menacing on this Halloween night, casts long shadows, turning the woods into a labyrinth of dark shapes and hidden corners. I know they’re close—I can almost feel their eyes on me, watching, waiting.

A rustle nearby makes my pulse spike. I bite my lip, holding back a gasp as I catch a glimpse of movement in the shadows. One of them is near, closer than I expected. My heart races, but it’s not fear that drives it—it’s the intoxicating blend of excitement and desire that courses through me.

Without thinking, I take off running again, the cool air whipping against my skin. I’m not running to escape—I’m running to be caught.