Page 5 of Trick me. Treat me

My reflection remains unconvinced. Probably because people do not actually do this everyday, especially not under these exact circumstances. But, that’s just me being unnecessarily negative. I’m fine. I’ll be fine.

I grab my keys, the hallway outside my apartment buzzing with energy as people get ready for tonights celebrations. Someone has stuck paper bats along the wall opposite the elevator, and there’s a plastic skeleton sitting in the corner wearing sunglasses holding an empty beer bottle.

By the time I reach the lobby, my heart is pounding. The driver waiting by the SUV is older than I expected. Maybe late fifties with grey hair and a clean shaven face. He’s completely normal-looking despite the suit and the vehicle making him look like he’s here to collect me for a sacrifice.

“Violet?”

My grip tightens around my bag. “That’s me.”

He smiles, tilting his head in greeting. “Good afternoon. I’m Harris.”

I offer a polite smile back despite the anxiety racing through me. “Hi.”

He reaches for my bag but I instinctively pull it closer. Way to make yourself look like a skittish weirdo, Vi.

He gestures toward the rear passenger door, ignoring my stupidity. “Whenever you’re ready.”

That’s it? No chloroform or zip ties? No get in the fucking car? I suddenly feel ridiculous.

“Sorry,” I mumble, feeling my cheeks heat.

He just smiles, opening the door for me. I peer inside before climbing in, finding it empty. I don’t know why I expected someone to be crouching inside waiting to grab me, but apparently that was a genuine concern my lovely little brain had been harbouring. I slide onto the black leather, the door closing behind me.

“Seat belt, please.” Harris calls as he sits himself behind the wheel.

I click it into place, quickly pulling out my phone. I open my messages with my roommate, Lacey, who’s currently spending Halloween at her boyfriend’s fraternity party.

Me

I’m leaving for the cat job.

Lacey

YOU ACTUALLY TOOK IT???

Me

$500!!!

Lacey

Violet.

Girl.

Do you WANT to become a true crime podcast?!

I bite back a laugh, the car pulling away from the curb as I type out my reply.

Me

I sent you the license plate. If I disappear tell my mom I love her.

Lacey

I’M SERIOUS VI!

Me