Page 47 of The Hunted

“I don’t think that’s necessary, Santino.” Her grip on his wrist tightened, and she leaned in closer.

“Can I kiss you goodnight, then?” His eyes dipped to her lips, wondering if she’d be the last thing he got to taste tonight.

“I don’t think that’s wise.” He felt her shiver and slowly pulled out of his hold. “For the same reason I don’t think you should walk me to my door.” She unlocked the passenger door and stepped out before he could formulate a response.

The crisp air filled his car and cooled his skin, which settled his mind—partially. He could still feel her in the space of his car and feel the phantom touch of her lips against his own. “And why is that?”

Silva’s gaze swept over his body. She hummed low in her throat, causing his cock to twitch behind his jeans. “Because I’ll invite you in, and I don’t think I’ll let you leave until the morning.”

ChapterTwenty

What was once lost

Is now found

You thought I wasn’t clever

But maybe you don’t know me as well as you think

You talk about a wolf in sheep’s clothing

But aren’t you a wolf hiding amongst the flock?

How can you expose one without exposing yourself?

I gave you this gift

and wish I could see your face

to know I took someone who wasn’t on the list

I believe this point goes to me

In a game I never wanted to play

I’ll be sure to be the victor

even when you change the rules.

You say you know me

I’m calling your bluff.

Come out, come out

wherever you are

and expose yourself to me.

We’ll see who’s left standing

and who becomes food for the earth.

The Reaper read over the words fighting back a laugh. As far as poems went, this needed work—a lot of work. But they weren’t here to be a critic of Santino’s words. The message was clear enough: show yourself but only if you’re willing to expose yourself to not only him but the world.

“I’ll show myself when I’m good and ready,” the Reaper grumbled, exhausted.

Getting here undetected had been a lesson in patience and caffeine. They were too eager and curious to see why Santino had stopped here. They thought the memories were coming back, and maybe he had finally figured it out, but the Reaper couldn’t be too sure.