Page 51 of The Spider Queen
“Sure. Come on, we better go. John isn’t gonna wait for us.”
Fifteen minutes later, we were at the bar. And instead of drinking beer, I went straight for the liquor. I ordered a rum and Coke and then took my drink to the table Francis had commandeered for us.
They talked about classes and Spring Break plans. I got lost in my drink and resumed the mental conversation I’d had with Thane.
You should’ve told me,I accused.
And said what? You’re already concerned about your mental health.
What about my physical health? That part of town is dangerous in daylight. Not to mention at night when you’re sleepwalking.
You were safe.
How?
He refused to answer. Typical Thane.
I don’t believe you. And I don’t trust you.
I slammed up a mental wall, cutting off all communication.
Terror engulfed me. What could’ve happened to me? I shivered and tried not to think about it.
Maybe those sleeping pills I’d gotten to ease Anita’s fears weren’t such a rotten idea.
Chapter 17
The world was a kaleidoscope of colors, a cacophony of sounds. Blood roared in my ears and fire blazed under my skin. I was melting from the inside out. My feet were unsteady, my legs liquid. Swaying, I knocked into a table, upsetting a tray of empty glasses.
Hands shoved me and I fell to the ground. My head smacked against the floor, rattling my teeth.
I laughed but nothing was funny.
Pain pierced my skin.
I couldn’t see anything but dark shadows, and I briefly wondered if my glasses were still on my face.
Hold on, Poppy!
“Thane,” I whispered, not sure if I spoke aloud or to the being in my mind. Real or imaginary, he couldn’t save me. I was on my own. Always on my own.
Someone lifted me and I was pressed against a solid, warm chest. Scents were familiar but I couldn’t place them, not in my current state. Like grass and sun in the air.
“I’m here, Poppy,” a voice said.
“Thane?” I asked again.
There was no reply.
Suddenly, I could breathe easier. I gulped fresh air, feeling like a dying fish on land.
I opened my eyes and saw the blurry outline of a blond stubbly jaw. Reaching up, I traced a cheek.
“Poppy,” he growled.
“Hunter?”
“I’ve got you. I’ve got you now.”
