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He walks over, takes the duffel from my shoulder, and sets it beside his dresser.

Then he kisses me.

"There. Happy?"

I glance at my bag.

Then at him.

"Very."

Something changes in his expression.

His thumb brushes my cheek.

"Good."

Such a small word.

Such a ridiculous effect on my heart.

I take his hand.

"Come on. Before we both starve."

We head down the hallway together.

I'm halfway through explaining why pancakes absolutely count as culinary expertise when Vex stops.

So suddenly I nearly walk into him.

"Hey. What's wrong?"

He doesn't answer.

His head turns toward the front of the cabin.

I follow his gaze.

Nothing.

Just the living room and the pale morning light coming through the windows.

"Vex?"

His fingers tighten around mine.

"Quiet."

My stomach drops.

He's listening.

I hold my breath.

At first, I hear nothing.

Then something crunches outside.