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“Easy, I don’t want to hurt you.”

My attention snaps back to him. He’s holding up both hands now, like I’m a wild animal he’s trying not to spook.

“Just kidnap me?” I shoot back.

One dark eyebrow lifts. “You were breaking into my house. I figured you wanted to come inside.”

Heat floods my cheeks. Okay, he has a point. Not one I’m about to admit out loud, but still…

“I’m Pyrce. What’s your name?” he asks easily.

I eye him warily, swaying on my feet.

God, I’m so tired.

“Elsie,” I finally whisper.

“Nice to meet you, Elsie.”

“You too, Pyrce,” I mumble.

Black spots swim in my vision. I haven’t slept more than a handful of hours in the last week, and it appears to be catching up with me now. Wonderful timing.

I pinch myself, trying to force my body to wake up, but it’s no use. His place is warm and smells of eucalyptus and oak. A blanket is draped over the back of the couch. If I took a few more steps, I could grab it and take a nap on the couch.

Just for a quick power nap.

Do not pass out in this man’s house!

“Elsie, are you okay?” Pyrce asks, looking concerned.

I blink, trying to focus on him. “Of course. Why do you ask?”

“Because you look like you’re about to fall asleep on your feet.”

I sway, stumbling to catch myself before I fall. Pyrce rushes forward, but I hold out a hand to stop him before he can steady me.

“I’m fine,” I lie. “I was just leaving. Sorry about the misunderstanding.”

My vision grows hazy at the edges as I take a step toward the front door. “I’m in trouble.”

“What’s wrong, Angel?” Pyrce appears in front of me, and I realize I said that out loud.

“Nothing,” I mumble, blinking rapidly.

I frown as I look at the front door. “Is it getting further away?”

“You haven’t moved,” Pyrce replies slowly, as if explaining something to a five-year-old.

I tense as someone knocks at the door.

“Easy. It’s just a friend,” Pyrce says calmly, turning to answer the door.

I blow out a shaky breath, trying to calm my racing heart. The slight movement sends another wave of dizziness through me, making my head pound even harder.

I squeeze my eyes shut, waiting for it to pass.

Bad move.