Page 97 of Unmasked

My heart pounds faster. “I’d love that.”

“If you need to submit a two-week notice and want an extra week or two off before you start, we can do that,” Jaxson adds.

I nod. “I’ll need to send a resignation letter. And I’d like the two weeks off before starting. But yes, I’d love to work for King Morine full-time.”

“Great.” Zayne shakes my hand. “Welcome aboard. You’re part of our elite team.”

After I getfood in my stomach, exhaustion hits me again. It’s been a busy couple of weeks working full-time and as a contractor for Zayne. Any free time I have is spent with my little prey.

“Stryker, you look tired. Why don’t you lie on the recliner? I’ll have my staff bring you some water and your pills.” Zayne’s intense gaze bores into me.

I want to argue, but I can barely keep my eyes open.

Jaxson’s deep voice washes over me. “I’ll help him there. You two enjoy your tour,” he says to Zayne and Delaney. “Come on, Stryker. There’s a nice recliner waiting for you.”

“My girl has a test. Can I just text her, wishing her luck?” I hate myself for begging, but my urge to talk to her is stronger than my pride. “Please. It’s her birthday.”

Zayne stands and pulls out my phone. “Fifteen minutes is all you get. You need to rest.”

I nod, relieved I get to talk to her.

As soon as my ass is in the recliner, I text her.

ME: I have a surprise for you. It’ll be delivered between 6 and 8 tonight.

LITTLE PREY: Oh, I’m so excited. I can’t wait to see what it is.

ME: I love you. Happy birthday, my little prey.

LITTLE PREY: I love you. Thank you.

ME: Any big plans?

LITTLE PREY: Mandy and I are going to the haunted house on campus tonight. The one where the former asylum director went mad and killed his wife and kids.

ME: I remember hearing about that. Sounds spooky.

LITTLE PREY: I wish you could go with me.

ME: So do I. Is tonight the last night?

LITTLE PREY: Yes, unfortunately. If I had known about it sooner, we could’ve gone.

ME: Next year.

LITTLE PREY: I have an idea that may make it seem like you’re there. It’s a surprise, though.

ME: I love your surprises. I can’t wait to see you.

LITTLE PREY: I can’t wait to see you. I’m heading into the room for my Bio exam.

ME: Good luck. I need to rest, but let me know how you do.

LITTLE PREY: I will. Love you. Get some sleep. XOXO

ME: XOXO.

“Time’s up, lover boy.” Jaxson snatches my phone out of my hands. “You can talk to her later. Here’s your pills. Get some sleep.”