Page 27 of Cinder's Trial
“It could happen to you.”
“Doubtful. As you’ve stated before, I am a killer, and the kind of women that attracts… Let’s just say I’d rather be alone.”
I almost opened my mouth to say he underestimated his appeal, but then that might lead to me saying something dumb like how good-looking I found him, and sexually appealing, plus kinder than expected. Not to mention brave, rushing in to rescue me.
“Wait a second, how come you knew I needed help? Are you spying on me?” I glanced around for cameras.
“Uh, well, um, I might have, kind of, um, been staked out watching your place.”
I narrowed my gaze on him. “Why?”
“Because my gut told me to.”
It made me think of his appearance that morning. He’d since changed and shaved, which led to a light bulb moment. “You were here last night too!”
“And if I was?” he huffed. “You should be glad I listened to my instincts, or you’d be cocooned and marinating for the spider.” He waved a hand at the body, and I shuddered.
“Fine, you were right, and I’m glad you were nearby, but you could have told me.”
“What would that have accomplished?”
“You could have slept on my couch instead of your car.”
He grimaced. “I think my SUV is more comfortable.” He might have a point given my love seat wouldn’t accommodate his length.
“You must have been close to have heard the commotion.”
“Close enough. Luckily you scream pretty loud. Surprised you didn’t shatter a few windows.”
I arched a brow. “Not all of us are warriors. And I hate bugs.”
“Says the woman who is friends with a spider.”
“A little one who wouldn’t hurt—” I couldn’t say fly so substituted with, “Me.”
Levi glanced around. “Your place is a mess.”
“I’m aware. This is going to take forever to clean.” I sighed.
“You’re not cleaning this. This is now a crime scene, which means we need to call the bureau for a team to bag, tag, and document.”
“Think they’ll let me stay while they handle it?” I already knew the answer. Protocol stated people had to vacate the premises of a crime scene.
“No.”
“Where am I supposed to go?” I said then immediately snapped my fingers. “I’ll call Belle. She has a spare room at her place.”
“You’re not staying with Belle.” A flat reply.
“Yeah, well, I am not paying for a hotel that won’t let me bring my friends.” With the threat gone, the mice emerged, their pink noses twitching from their openings in the walls, which looked like doors since I’d drawn around them, giving them frames, and even fake windows with flower boxes.
“Hold on, you’re bringing mice with you?”
“Not just the mice. Izzy and Charlotte, too, if she’ll leave her web.”
For some reason, Levi sighed.
“What?” I exclaimed. “Why do you look so annoyed?”