Page 76 of Shadows Within

“Oh, it’s not a joke, Angel.” Disgust washes over me but quickly turns to a yearning between my legs. My breath picks up.

“Does that turn you on, Scarlett?” His hand trails over my other nipple. “Thinking about me ending someone’s life for you?”

It’s so wrong. I shouldn’t be turned on by that thought.

“Answer me, Angel.”

Without hesitation, I nod my head yes. I couldn’t possibly admit it out loud, and that’s all I’m willing to give him.

He removes his hand from my chest and returns it to the steering wheel.

“Callum—” I whine.

“I said not here.” His voice is assertive.

“Where do you want to go then?” I try not to pout, but he’s never denied me before.

“I have a meeting I can’t be late to. I’ll be over after.”

“Okay.” I hide the disappointment in my voice.

He glances at me for a minute, like he’s trying to read me. I remember all the times I’ve seen him vulnerable—like when he opened up to me about his family and his father. All he needs is to be loved. I stroke his face, and he flinches.

“I’ll see you later.” His eyes turn into slits as he watches me get out of the car.

I walk up the driveway, more confused than before. I know that there’s more to this secret society that he’s mentioned.

“Dad!” I yell as I open the door to his shop.

“Back here!” I see him over by the tool bench. A flashback of Callum and I in the garage sets in.

“Scarlett?”

I didn't realize that Dad was talking to me.

“Oh, sorry.”

“You okay?” He wears a concerned look.

“Yeah, just came to ask what you want to do for dinner?” I scan the shop—he’s worked so hard for all of this, for me. Anger washes over me. How could my mom leave him?He did everything for her, for us. He hasn’t dated since, and I don’t know if he ever will.

“I was thinking of ordering something? What do you feel like?”

“Um...I think I’m feeling Thai?” I think about it for a minute. “Or we could go grab some burgers,” I add.

The Burger Bar in town has the best fries—crispy with seasoning. They’ve been in Millhaven since the town was formed and it’s stayed in the Morrow family since. The interior has classic red and white checkered floors with matching red booths. Julia, the daughter of the current owner, went to middle school with me. I feel like if I wasn’t so close with Sophia, we could’ve been friends, but I’m the type that doesn't need many close friends—I like to have one good one. She was always kind to me, and I see her behind the counter or serving tables when we go in. I always make friendly conversation.

“Now you’re speaking my language.” He responds with a smile. “I’ll just need a bit more time in here. There’s a fresh loaf of banana bread on the counter from Gerry’s wife.”

“Okay, I’ll be inside if you need me. Come get me when you’re ready.”

The kitchen greets me with the warm smell of baking. I walk over and cut myself a slice of the warm loaf. It’s completely dark outside now.

Just then, I spot headlights coming down the street.

I squint, trying to see if it’s Callum’s car, but the glare against the window stops me from confirming it. I sigh and walk around to the living room window to see if it’s him.

“Scarlett, I’m going to call it a night, want to head out now and save the loaf for dessert?” Dad yells into the kitchen.