Page 101 of Tag

“Let me finish.” Her tone turned prim. “Ms. Noreen mentioned you stopped by the drugstore the other day.”

I closed my eyes. I knew where this was going. “It was for a friend.”

“Are you the friend?”

I snorted. “No, Sugarmama. I take all precautions.”

“Well, I’m glad to hear that.” She paused, then added casually, “You and Ryder are both young. You should enjoy each other before bringing me a great grandbaby.”

“Ryder?”

“Who else’s baby would it be?”

“…My boyfriend’s?”

“Ryder.”

“Ashton,” I corrected, exasperated.

“Let’s be serious.”

I tried not to laugh, failing and dragging a hand over my face. “Honestly? You’re right. That whole situation is a mess. I’ll talk to you in person because I’m in desperate need of your wisdom.”

“Oh, you know I’m the expert on the men. Are you sure there’s no baby?”

“There isnobaby, I swear.”

“Well, I had to double-check. You know you’re theNoorof your papa’s eye. I needed to know if we had to start laying groundwork and testing waters before you made any surprise announcements.”

“I appreciate your willingness to be an accomplice, but like I said, I take double precautions. I’m also on a path of celibacy.”

“Celibacy?” she repeated, then clicked her tongue. “Well, that’s your choice, and I’m proud of you for being responsible. When I was your age, I was a little wild.”

“Yeah, okay.” I laughed. “I’m going to go. Give my love to everyone. I’ll see you soon.”

“I can’t wait. Sending love to you too,Meri Jaan.”

I ended the call, the screen fading black as I tucked the phone against my chest. For a moment, maybe only seconds, I felt something close to peace. I checked the time. 7:56 PM. Almost eight. My entire body ached—mentally, emotionally, and physically. Between practice, The Hunt, Ryder, and everything else, I was tapped out. I sighed, knowing I needed to head back inside before the girls came looking for me.

I was ready to go home.

Food didn’t sound appealing, and that said a lot coming from me. I shut my eyes, taking a few more minutes for myself.

“Sanjana.”

I jumped, straightening instantly. I scanned the shadows by the edge of The Nest, the sidewalk near the alley, and the cars parked farthest from the diner lights. There was no one around but two guys at the back of the lot, talking, one lighting a cigarette. Neither of them was paying me any mind. Had I imagined it? My phone went off with a text.

1031

You’re even prettier when you’re scared.

That little hitch in your breath, I felt it from here.

Don’t worry. I won’t come any closer. Not yet.

I like watching you from the dark.

My stomach dropped.

---