Page 34 of No Need to Run

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Did I just see... movement?

I stare for a few beats, unblinking.

No movement.

I take a slow step back from the window.

It’s only my imagination.

It has to be.

My palms are sweaty as I double-check the lock on my window. It’s secure.

You’re being ridiculous.

I turn around—and scream like the final girl in a horror movie.

My hand grips my chest like it can keep my heart from beating through it.

“Jesus. You scared the hell out of me.”

Mr. Pickles just sits there, staring at me with those judgmental eyes.

I swear he smirks before he stands. Then he struts away, tail in the air like he’s completed his mission for the night.

Little psychopath.

I walk over and slam my door.

Damn cat. He’s the reason why I’m paranoid.

I remove my shirt, then my pants.

Standing there in my boxers, I shake my head.

Then my eyes widen, remembering the way he looked when I arrived home.

“What did that little monster do?”

I check my bed, but I don’t see or smell any cat pee. I lift my comforter, making sure he didn’t put a dead mouse in there. Spoiler: he did that while Sebastian and Ivy were on their honeymoon. I thought I was going to have to call 9-1-1 for cardiac arrest.

I don’t see any surprises from Mr. Pickles.

My gaze catches on the window again.

Or a stalker’s face pressed against my window.

Although a stalker could be hiding in the bush. There’s one beneath the window. It’s big enough for someone to hide in.

My chest tightens.Nope. Not going there.

Still, I can’t shake the feeling someone’s watching me.

With a sigh, I turn off the light and practically dive under the covers.

It’s fine.

No one’s stalking me.

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