Page 16 of Fade With Me

I drifted toward the cocktail dress section, my gaze widening at the stunning selection, each piece a vision of glamor and sophistication. Every gown seemed like a masterpiece, promising elegance and allure. A longing stirred within me. Could slipping into one of these creations transform me, even for just a moment?

I was powerless against the pull of a show-stopping black number with a sultry slit, its dark fabric vibrating with promise. Holding it up to my body, I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the way it shimmered in the mirror. The silk caught the light like gemstones, castinga subtle glow that danced with a seductive whisper. It seemed to throb with life, as though it had been waiting for me all along, beckoning me to surrender to its mystery.

“That dress was made for you.”

I spun around, startled, heart leaping as I came face-to-face with Zeke. His sudden presence made me jump, and I gasped, my hand flying to my chest as I struggled to catch my breath. The shock left me flustered, my face burning with embarrassment.

Clearly amused, he tugged the corners of his mouth upward, fighting to hold back a smile. My awkwardness was on full display, and I wanted to melt into the floor.

“Sorry about the sneak attack,” he said, his low, rumbling laugh vibrating through me, creating a flutter in my stomach. “I didn’t mean to startle you.”

Still catching my breath, I shot back, “My goodness, you should wear a bell or something.” Exhaling, I shook off the surprise and muttered, more to myself than to him, “How do you even walk so quietly?”

He glanced around, his expression darkening as intrigue clouded his eyes. He leaned in, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper. “Don’t go repeating this, but…let’s just say I have a certain set of skills that don’t exactly fit on a résumé.”

My face froze, and my brain came to a screeching halt. What secrets was this guy hiding behind those ridiculously entrancing eyes?

“Oh, yeah?” I said, trying for casual but failing miserably as my voice wobbled slightly. “And what exactly would those be?”

His grin widened, a trace of something dangerous carved into the set of his features. “You could say I’m…well-versed in problem-solving. A ninja, if you will—trained in the ancient art of stealth and subtlety.”

I raised an eyebrow. “Ninja-like, stealthy, and...lethal?”

He straightened, smugness radiating from him as he adjusted the cuffs of his suit. “Exactly. But, you know, in a charming way.”

I let out a short laugh, but a tiny, irrational part of me hesitated. Was he joking? Probably.

Hopefully.

My gaze drifted upward, the height difference between us impossible to ignore. It was hard to imagine someone his size moving silently, but then again, I supposed blending into the shadows would be a necessity in his...line of work.

“I’m really glad we ran into each other,” he said, his hands slipping casually into his pockets as he took a small step back. “I’ve been thinking about that trail you mentioned, and I was wondering if you’d be interested in joining me. You said it’s not a good idea to go alone, and honestly, I don’t have anyone around here who’s up for hiking.”

“Oh, I’m married!” I blurted out, mentally facepalming as soon as the words left my mouth.

Zeke’s eyes widened with surprise, followed by a soft, indulgent chuckle. “I figured as much,” he said, his gaze briefly dropping to my wedding band. “I didn’t mean to give you the wrong impression. Just a friendly gesture. Back in New York, some of my closest friends are women. But if that makes you uncomfortable, Itotallyget it.”

I. Am. Mortified.How could I have ever thought he was flirting with me? It’s painfully obvious I’m not his type. He’ll probably be telling his buddies back home about this later, and they’ll all have a good laugh at my expense.

I forced a casual smile, waving off my earlier outburst. “Oh—not uncomfortable at all,” I said, trying to play it cool. “Just friends, of course. No big deal. I’d be happy to be your guide.”

Zeke’s eyes narrowed. “Are you sure?” He drew the words out, as if still uncertain. “You just seemed so familiar with the area. I thought you’d be the best person to ask.”

I tried to laugh it off. “No, you’re right. Makes sense. Honestly, I’m probably the best person to ask. I’m one of the few who still regularly use that trail.”

His face lit up, a grin spreading from ear to ear. He clapped his hands together in excitement. “Fantastic! Iwas thinking of heading out this Saturday. Do you think you can make it?”

I paused for a moment, mentally reviewing my schedule. Surprisingly, it was clear. “Yeah, I’m free. I’d love to join you.” I studied his face for any signs of hesitation, but his expression remained neutral. “The hike’s a bit longer than most, so we should probably get an early start. How about 8:00 AM? That way, we’ll have plenty of time before it gets dark. We can meet at the Rocky Ridge Trailhead entrance.”

I didn’t say it out loud, but it would also give me time to make it home before my curfew.

Zeke nodded enthusiastically. “Perfect. I’ll be there at 8:00 AM sharp. I’m really looking forward to it!” His gaze flicked to the dress still cradled in my arms. “You really would look great in that, by the way. See you Saturday!”

I glanced down, having forgotten it was still there, and muttered, “Maybe…” But before I could say more, Zeke was already halfway out the door. I called out quickly, “See you then!”

He turned, offering a brief wave of farewell before stepping into the street. The doorbell above chimed a gentle goodbye.

As the door clicked shut, a nagging doubt crept in. Had I completely lost my mind agreeing to venture into the woods with someone who mightactuallybe a hitman? My confidence that he wasn’t barely cracked 45%.

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