“It wasn’t that it was us,” I say. “It was like watching a movie with actors or something.”
He doesn’t say anything. He just smirks and admires the passing scenery.
“And I would never have kissed you, just so we’re clear,” I add.
“Sure you wouldn’t, lass.”
“I wouldn’t! That simulation didn’t get everything right, anyway. If I’d seen a faceless man, I’d have screamed.”
The cart comes to a stop near the start of the park, and we climb out. The driver gives us a wave and speeds away. My stomach waits until the vehicle’s whining fades completely before uttering the most fart-like growl I’ve ever heard.
“I didn’t bust ass,” I say. “My stomach is growling because I’m hungry.”
Again, my abdomen chooses the silent moment to make itself heard.
“Sure you don’t need the bathroom? Sounds like you might. Serves you right for running off.”
God, I don’t know how I ever thought kissing him would be an enjoyable activity. On second thought, at least it would shut him up.
Aven shoves his hands into his pockets and looks around. “We still have a bit of time before we’re supposed to meet the others. What are you hungry for?”
“About three heavy sedatives, a long vacation, and competent oral?”
“Fresh out of that, I’m afraid. We’ve got something that passes for Italian on this stretch of street, though.”
I wasn’t kidding about the competent oral. Ever since seeing my virtual self mauling him on the big screen, I can’t stop thinking about that kiss. I could practically feel it. Now I’m imagining him kissing other parts of me.
“On second thought, maybe we should head back to the hotel. I’m due for another show soon anyway,” I offer. “I can always order room service.”
He nods and starts toward the hotel. “Aye, room service is fine, but I’ll be the one bringing it up to you straight from Chef Maurice. We cannae take any big risks with your health, lass.”
Right. Desmond.
I shudder as we pass through the gates and turn toward the garden trail. Sometimes I almost forget that while I’m busybecoming a predator, I’m still prey for someone else. He’s here on this island, stalking me from every shadow. Even so, the thought of them finally unmasking him and ending him makes me feel more panicked than the thought of him catching me.
Because either way, it will all come to an end.
These people are letting me into their world right now because they need me. Once my usefulness runs out...Well, I haven’t fully considered what that might mean. Will I be killed as well?
I glance up at Aven.
Something tells me no. Not that he wouldn’t be the first to take up a weapon against me if Jim gave the go ahead, but I don’t think Jim would. When they say they want to protect me because of who my father is, I believe them. But that doesn’t mean they’ll let me hang around once I’ve served my purpose, not even with my lineage.
“I’ve never really belonged anywhere,” I blurt.
Aven stops walking and turns to face me. “What’s that?”
That simulation is getting to me, because discussing my feelings isn’t exactly a verymething to do, but if I want them to keep me around once this ends, I need to let my guard down.
“I know you’re worried about my mental state after killing that guy last night, but I want you to know I’m okay. Maybe better than okay because for the first time since...” I stop myself before I reveal too much. My mother is a secret thing I keep tucked away, and no matter how badly I want to connect with him, she isn’t a bargaining chip to be used as a way to garner favor. “For the first time in a long time, I feel like I finally fit in.”
He studies me for a moment, and deep in his dark eyes, I see it. That hidden flame. That ember he refuses to let shine. But the light winks out as quickly as it sparks to life. “Can’t say I’m familiar with that feeling myself, but what makes you want to be part of this?”
“It’s the way some of these people interact. It reminds me of a family.” I shake my head and laugh. “Not the boring kind of family that I grew up in, though. We were meant to be perfect children who never talked back or stepped out of line.”
Aven’s jaw clenches. “Were they abusive to you or the other children?”
“No, not in the slightest. The Parkers are wonderful people. They’re just...wonderful people.” I shrug because I don’t know how else to explain it.
