Page 56 of Cyber Revenge

I can’t.

I justcan’t.

But then… The zipper. It’s slow. Deliberate.

I hear it before I see it.

The tactical vest hits the floor first. Gloves next. Knee pads. Boots. My breath hitches. Then… the mask.

I blink through my tears, vision blurry, body still trembling.

Trip.

It’sTrip.

His jaw is clenched, eyes burning with something raw. Somethingaching.

“Your fear and tears are delicious, killstreak,” he murmurs, voice low as he kneels in front of me.

His fingers brush my cheek, wiping away a tear.

“But only when it’smethat’s terrifying you.”

My breath catches.

“Not when you’re scared of someone else. Not when you are scared ofhim.I want your fear,killstreak.I want your everything.”

The dam breaks.

Icollapseinto him.

Trip catches me instantly, arms wrapping around me like a fortress. His body is warm, solid. His scent is familiar.

Safe.

“Trip…” I choke out, my fingers gripping the fabric of his shirt like I’m afraid he’ll disappear.

“I’m here,” he murmurs into my hair, voice softer now. “I’m here, killstreak.”

I can’t stop shaking.

He doesn’t let go.

His hand strokes my back, his lips press gently to my temple. I sob harder, burying my face into his neck, feeling his heartbeat steady against my cheek.

“I thought…” My voice breaks. “I thought it was– him–”

“I know. Shhh. I’ve got you.”

I don’t know how long we stay like that.

Minutes.

Hours.

Long enough for my tears to slow. Long enough for my body to stop trembling.

I’m empty. Exhausted. But safe.

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