Page 93 of Home Game

“Ryan,” she smiled into the phone. Her eyes narrowed at me while she listened. “Of course, I can, but perhaps I could offer assistance as I’m quite versed in gift buying… no, I understand… that’s fine…no, I can drive her. I mean, I’m quite busy but I can make it work.”

She ended the call and placed the phone on the island. “On top of everything I’m supposed to do around here, I get to be your chauffeur.”

“I told him I could take the bus.”

She flicked her hair over her shoulder. “When are you moving out?”

I swallowed hard. “Why?”

“I’d hate for you to outstay your welcome.”

I picked up my phone and walked back to my bedroom. I didn't need the reminder. I knew better than anyone that the clock was ticking on this life.

After I showered,Bianca and I made our way down to the lobby. She sighed and repeatedly checked her watch, letting me know what a huge imposition this was.

“I can take the bus."

“If Ryan wants me to drive you somewhere, then that’s what I will do.”

Next time I would insist on taking the bus.

We walked out of the lobby into the misty cool air.

“I’m parked over here,” she dug through her purse.

I froze.

My worst nightmare stood across the street, leaning against the building.

Terrance.

I swallowed, tried to move, but shock cemented my feet to the ground.

“Are you coming?” Bianca's voice was sharp.

I tried to speak but cold fear constricted around my throat like asnake. He looked the same. He rolled his toothpick between his teeth and lifted his hand in a wave.

My plastic bag was upstairs. I could grab it and my $800 and disappear.

“Who’s that?” Bianca stood beside me.

She stared at Terrance. He nodded at her.

“No one,” I gasped, turning to walk in the car's direction. “Let’s go.”

“Who was that?” she repeated.

“No one. Let’s go,” my voice shook.

“He seems to know you,” she smirked. “An old boyfriend?”

I ignored her and stared out the window for the duration of the ride.

Ryan sounded cheerful,“How was your day?”

“Fine.” I felt distracted. I couldn’t get the image of Terrance out of my mind. How had he found me? He must have followed us home from the store. Today he had been waiting for me.

Cold sweat trickled down my back. Nothing good could come out of this situation. I needed to handle this, but I didn’t know how. The smart thing would be to disappear.

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