Page 121 of No Need to Run

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I take off running like someone’s chasing me, eyes frantically darting around.

By the time I’ve cleared the forest, I’m soaked from sweat, muscles screaming, lungs burning.

I slow my pace to a light jog... then a walk. I look over my shoulder, eyes searching.

No one’s there.

Face it.

You’re going crazy.

I’m still lecturing myself as I slip through the patio door.

When I turn to close it, I see it again. Like a flash of long, red hair.

I stare for a few more minutes.

Nothing.

I close the door... and lock it.

It could've been nothing.

Or some knife-wielding maniac.

But the truth is... I'm hoping it was Violet.

And that might be the most dangerous thing of all.

27

DREW

“Why are you all sweaty?”

I scream at the sound of her voice and whirl around. “Oh my God. My heart is beating out of my chest. “Ivy.”

She stands in the foyer, an amused smile on her face.

“You scared the hell out of me.”

“I noticed.” She tugs on her ear. “I think I lost part of my hearing from your scream.”

“Ha, ha.” I move away from the door, heading for the kitchen.

“What were you running from?” she asks from behind me.

“What makes you think I was running from something?”

She cocks her head. “Why else would you run?”

“Hey. I ran with your husband.” My tone is high-pitched. Defensive.

“You did. And I was almost as surprised that you did as I am that you just ran by yourself.”

“Long day. Needed to think.”

She moves past me, opening a cabinet. “So…”

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