Page 28 of Coveted

Professor Worthington did say he wanted more from my stories though. I won’t get raw, new material by spending another night avoiding the world.

I came to this college to do something. Be something.

I just hope the thing I end up being isn’t dead.

A path winds alongside the narrow road to Ember Falls, the closest town to Darkbloom.

Dusk drapes the trees in indigo light. Nocturnal creatures scurry through leaves, scattering the earthy scent of decaying foliage. Owls hoot like wise oracles warning me.

I hear the hum of the expensive car before I see it.

The black sedan glides around the bend from behind me, headlights washing the pavement in pale gold.

Slowing my pace, I wait for the vehicle to pass. It remains at the edge of my vision, like it’s tracking me.

“Shit,” I say under my breath.

Do I go back to campus?

Or is it better to run into the forest, away from the road? That idea ties my stomach in knots after what happened to Parker.

Gathering my courage, I stand still and face the car. If it stops too, I know the driver is tracking me.

The tinted windows look like polished obsidian slabs. I can’t see a thing inside.

Pulling to the curb, the sedan halts. The engine idles with faint vibrations.

They’re definitely after me then. I should run.

Yet powerful curiosity keeps me rooted to the spot.

The driver’s door opens with a quiet click and a large man wearing a suit steps out. He’s middle-aged, bald-headed, and his friendly grin disarms me.

“Are you lost?” I ask in a loud, clear voice to hide my fear.

“I know my way around, Miss, but thank you.” He remains by the open door. “I’ve been sent for you.”

My forehead wrinkles. “Sent for me?”

“I’m O’Connor. Mr. Hale’s personal driver. He directed me to bring you to Ember Falls.” He points his thumb. “I was waiting at Darkbloom. When I didn’t see you, I thought I’d better make sure you’re alright.”

I’m caught between my annoyance at Lucan and wanting to be gracious to O’Connor, who seems kind. Working for Lucan must be a nightmare.

“That’s thoughtful of you,” I say. “Thank you. But I’m fine on foot. You can tell him that.”

He nods. “As you wish.”

Returning to the driver’s seat, he pulls the car away from the curb.

But as I continue walking, I realize the sedan’s still pacing me. The engine patiently hums at my back.

I groan into the chilly air.

Did Lucan order this poor man to babysit me all the way to Ember Falls?

Though I try to wave O’Connor past, he stays with me. He glides around bends alongside me until glittering, picture-perfect Ember Falls comes into view.

Using my phone, I navigate the cobblestoned streets to Altar. The sleek car trails me until I enter the well-lit town square, where O’Connor finally drives away.