Falling asleep in Mason’s warm, protective arms is easier than falling. And tonight, with my face pressed against his chest, hearing his heartbeat, he feels closer than ever. Even if he did just confess he’s incapable of love.
My body turns slack in his stranglehold, as the dark, starless night threatens to consume me. No chance. My darkness—the haunting, restless shadows that lurk inside me are no match for this god-faced monster with no conscience, no brakes, no sense of mercy. Mason Grant is a creature carved from chaos who will destroy anything that harms me, even if that thing isme.
Is that enough?
Maybe. For now.
Breathing in my bliss, I take in this moment of peace.
My eyes close to the inscription on his chest.
Memento Mori.
Remember, you must die.
31
EVA
The world spinson its axis before something heavy falls near me with a loud thud.
My eyes peel open to a blinding blur, head pounding, throat crushed against the seat belt, threatening to claim my final breath. A familiar silhouette sprawls in front of me.
“Dad!” I shout.
But the voice I hear isn’t mine.
Another muffled voice speaks, like a sound underwater.
I know that voice. But I can’t place it.
Panic coils in my chest as I snatch at the hand extended toward me. Fingers clutching the sleeve, slowly reaching up the arm, I grip Dad’s shoulder and pull with every ounce of strength I can muster.
The motionless body turns, stabbed in the chest, drenched in crimson.
And then I see the face.
“Mason,” I shriek, jolting upright, sweating bullets, heart hammering, trying to break through my ribcage.
My head is spinning in all directions, taking in my new surroundings, desperately trying to ground myself in reality.
I’m on Mason’s bed.
No Mason.
That explains the nightmare.
What was that?Unlike the usual horrors, this wasn’t a memory. It was a real nightmare. Mine wrapped up in his.
Pulling my knees to my chest, I bury my head and take in a few deep breaths. Warm sunlight spills through the glass, washing over me in soft, golden waves.
Wait, what time is it?My eyes flash to the window. It’s bright daylight outside. It must be the middle of the afternoon.
Damn it. How long did I sleep?
A soft creak drifts in from outside the bedroom.
“Mason?” I call.
