Page 50 of Don't Fall for the Goalie

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I stand there longer than I should, watching her.

Then I finally turn around and head back upstairs to the loft.

It feels colder and emptier than ever.

14

PEYTON

I’m running through the woods.

I’m lost. My gaze tears through the forest, but I have no idea where I am.

Danger surrounds me. I instinctively know it.

My heart pounds and my knees shake as I continue running, searching for an escape. A way out.

In the distance, I spot a glimpse of a roof.

Perfect. I’ll be safe there.

Despite the stitch in my side, I run faster, desperate for safety. For a sense of belonging.For home.

Right as I break through the tree line, I realize it’s the back of Daltyn’s cabin.

I nearly weep with relief.

And there he is, stepping through the back door.

I’m about to yell his name when there’s a snap from behind me.

I whirl around... and hit the ground so hard, my breath is knocked from my lungs.

A figure straddles me. Strong hands pin my wrists to theground.

Oh, God. It’s Landon.

“Well, well, well. If it isn’t the bitch who abandoned me.”

“I never?—”

His hand wraps around my throat, cutting off my words. And my air.

“No matter.” He glances up, watching as Daltyn walks through the door. “All that matters now is that I get to end you.” He looks down at me. “And then, him.”

No.

No, no, no.

I need to do something to warn him.

But I can’t move.

Can’t scream.

And when Landon tightens his grip even more, darkness edges at my vision.

I’m running out of air.

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