I lower the door into place, pressing it just enough for it to sit like it did before. Undisturbed. Unnoticed. Just the way he likes things.
As I make my way back to the car, my mind is already racing, making plans.
My lips curve as the engine comes to life.
Everything is falling into place.
Exactly as planned.
15
VIOLET
I watchDrew’s car disappear down the road, already missing him. He’s heading into the city to troubleshoot an issue with some budget numbers not lining up, then stopping at the grocery store afterward.
From my position behind the shrubs, Ivy and Sebastian exit the house. I hear her tell him she has writer’s block and that a change of scenery might help.
He opens the car door for her. “I’m sure it will, baby. I’ll pick you up around noon. Maybe we can get some lunch?”
“Sounds great.”
Sebastian rounds the car and gets in.
I wait long enough to make sure they don't come back for a forgotten phone or wallet.
Then I pull out my phone and open the app.
Getting around security systems isn't as difficult as people think. Technology isn't the weak point.
People are.
They use birthdays, pet names, and important dates, then wonder how someone guessed the password.
A few seconds later, I’ve bypassed the system.
That was easy enough. Sebastian should really rethink his password.
I slip my phone into my pocket and make my way to the back patio door. The one Sebastian and Ivy only lock at night.
It’s unlocked.
Of course it is. They’re creatures of habit.
I slide it open and slip inside. It smells like coffee, pancakes, bacon, and Ivy’s perfume.
I take a step toward the hallway and freeze.
Mr. Pickles sits there, staring at me.
I grab the small pack of cat treats I bought and squat down. His eyes flick to them, then back to mine.
“Hi, Mr. Pickles. Want a treat?”
His ears twitch, and his tail thumps twice against the floor.
I open the bag and pull one out. “Here you go.”
He sniffs, then stands. With his weary eyes on me, he slowly moves forward.
