Page 9 of Stalker

The plasma fountain pulses behind us, its rhythmic surge matching my quickening pulse. I want to discover every secret hiding behind those flame-bright eyes. Want to learn what makes that fire burn hotter.

A surge of tourists floods the observation deck, their excited chatter breaking our moment. Maryse's hand finds mine again as she guides us through the crowd.

"Let's walk a bit."

The administrative center towers above us - my target, my purpose - but her fingers intertwined with mine scatter my thoughts like stardust. The revenge I've chased across systems feels hollow compared to the warmth of her touch.

"Where are you staying while you're here?"

"I'll find something." My free hand brushes the credit chip in my pocket. "There's bound to be a vacancy somewhere."

"Nonsense." She stops, turning to face me. "I have an empty condo next door to mine. Top level, incredible view."

"The owner-"

"Oh, don't worry." Her wink sets my heart racing. "I know the owner really well. She's me!"

The words hit like a plasma burst. Living next door to her? Every morning, every evening, knowing she's just meters away? The thought sends electricity down my spine.

"I couldn't possibly-"

"I insist." Her thumb traces patterns on my palm. "It's the least I can do after you saved my life."

My mission screams for attention, but it's drowned out by the music of her laugh. How can I focus on death and vengeance with such life and warmth so close?

"Well?" Those green eyes pierce straight through my defenses. "What do you say?"

The answer forms before I can stop it.

"Yes."

CHAPTER 4

MARYSE

The elevator hums as we ascend to my floor. My skin prickles with awareness of Bruticus's massive presence behind me. His bone spurs cast intricate shadows on the metallic walls.

"Your place is on the right." My voice comes out breathy. "The spare unit's next door."

"Thank you for your hospitality." His deep voice sends shivers down my spine.

I fumble with the keycard, hyper-aware of his proximity. The corridor feels too narrow, too intimate. His scent - like ozone and dark spices - fills my lungs.

"The security system's top-notch." I tap the panel beside the door. "Dad insisted. Military-grade everything."

"Your father sounds... protective."

A laugh bubbles up. "You have no idea. If he knew I was harboring a Reaper..." Heat creeps up my neck.

"Harboring? Am I your fugitive now?"

His teasing tone makes my stomach flip. I chance a glance over my shoulder. His red eyes gleam with something that's definitely not innocence.

"Here's your key." I thrust the card at him, our fingers brushing. Electricity zings through my arm. "The unit's fully furnished."

"And if I need anything in the middle of the night?"

My mouth goes dry. Those rumors about Reapers and their appetites flash through my mind. I squeeze my thighs together.