Page 35 of Stiletto Sins
“Nope,” he said, doubling down and pulling me closer. “I kind of like having you here where you can’t get away.”
“Okay, cool, but I can’t live here.”
“Why not?” he asked, and I could hear the smile in his voice.
“Well, as nice as it is, I need to pee and do other things at times. And it would get awfully sweaty after a while, I bet.”
“I’m hoping it gets sweaty, sweetheart. That means it’s good.”
Gulping, I nodded, trying to find words. “Well, okay, good, um, but still.”
He laughed, his breath cascading over my neck again. “Fine. I’ll let you up. This is my new favorite thing, though. I should’ve told you who I was years ago. Be prepared for more of this. Once I latch on, I don’t really let go.”
The barest of kisses was placed under my ear. His lips were warm, only giving the slightest pressure, but it was enough to send a ping straight to my core, making it throb as my toes curled under.
“I honestly don’t think I would’ve been ready for you back then,” I admitted, standing up once his arms released me.
When I stood to turn, his hand reached out, taking mine. “I’m glad we have now.”
It was the simplest phrase, but it resonated with me. “Me too, Cohen.”
I found myself smiling as I stepped out from between his legs and began to pack up the few meager belongings I had scattered around the room. Asa was back in a few, and I changed in the bathroom. I realized they’d also changed clothes, small bags sitting next to mine when I returned. It felt odd to be leaving with them, but I liked it more than having to sneak out on my own.
“Alright, let’s hit the road.”
FINLEY, AGE 17
Blackhawk: You kind of remind me of the heroine from the book, Forgotten Time. Have you ever read it?
Oblivion: Are you joking with me right now?
Blackhawk: No. I read. I’m kind of offended you think I can’t read.
Oblivion: No, that’s not it. Sorry. It’s just… that’s one of my favorite books. I’ve read it a million times probably. It’s kind of surreal that a guy is telling me I remind them of Raven. She’s kind of a badass.
Blackhawk: So are you, little hacker.
Oblivion: It doesn’t feel that way in real life.
Blackhawk: You’ll find your friend. I believe in you. Did you message Chaos?
Oblivion: Yes. He’s looking into some things.
Blackhawk: That sounds promising.
Oblivion: Yeah, I guess. Her birthday was yesterday and it just feels weird not celebrating with her. That’s two I’ve missed now.
Blackhawk: Time is a construct. When you’re reunited, it won’t feel like any has passed.
Oblivion: Yeah, I hope so. It feels like it’s too much to wish for.
Blackhawk: You deserve all the things, little hacker. In fact, I want to send you something.
Oblivion: Isn’t that against the rules. No personal information.
Blackhawk: Which is why I have an idea. Have you ever heard of a virtual address?
Oblivion: No, what is it?