Chapter 17
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
BLAIR
Over the past few weeks, Emmett has been inserting himself into my life against my will. Like a stray coming back after it's been fed. It's conflicting. He constantly pushes my boundaries and shatters any idea of respect for my personal space. But his antics make me feel adored and cherished.
If I’m right about what I think he did to Braxton , and he was possibly killed, just for flirting with me, it’s concerning. The guilt hanging over my head, heavy as a rain cloud preparing for a downpour. I’m afraid of what could happen if someone were to do more than harmlessly flirt. My heartstrings tug, reminding me of the annotation he made in my novel. The line repeats in my head,
“ Our hearts and souls are intertwined and tangled, to where you can’t tell where I end and he begins. I belong to him wholeheartedly, and him to me.”
“ You are mine. I am yours.” I whisper to myself, reciting the message he left me .
Moments , particularly from that night, weeks ago, tumble through my mind. The heat of his breath on my skin, his hands gripping my hips and running through my hair. His eyes staring at me with lust and rage and something that resembles deep affection, almost like…love? I let out a chuckle, knowing it couldn’t be, but could it be?
If this is wrong, and I shouldn’t be with this slightly psychotic man, why does he keep invading my thoughts? Why do I walk around campus hoping he has his sights set on me? Why have I relentlessly checked my phone for messages from him? When did my days become lonely when I’m not visited by his lingering shadow?
Every day has been the same. I wake up, go for a run, and get ready for classes. Frequently , I go to Cozy Cup for my morning fix before class.
Final projects and papers for the semester are going to be assigned soon, so I’ve been using all of my free time to dive into my coursework. The girls have been busy with their own assignments and extracurriculars, too. It would be nice for us all to get together and do something fun. Hopefully , I can catch Aspen at home or between classes, and plan something.
But right now, I need to get to class. Economics isn’t my favorite subject, but it is my only class with Emmett , and today, I’m actually looking forward to seeing him. The stutter of my heart and the warmth that spreads over me when I see him is surprising.
A few weeks ago, when I would lay my eyes on him, I’d be irritated, praying that he'd get the hint to stay far away from me. But lately, all I can think about when we make eye contact, is how his lips feel when they’re pressed against mine, and other parts of my body .
Once I’m settled into my seat, I glance over at the empty one next to me, remembering when Braxton occupied it. My heart pangs, the sin of his potential death hanging like a noose around my neck.
I know Emmett didn't explicitly tell me he killed him, but based on the texts he sent me before Braxton was reported missing, I know he’ll never be seen again. Attempting to shake these feelings of shame away, I breathe out and face forward to find two forest green pupils staring down at me.
“ Good morning, baby. Hungry ?” He asks with a smile. Not a smirk or a smug look. An actual smile. Emmett Blackwood is genuinely smiling at me and his dimples elicit an immediate reaction from my core.
He places a small paper bag on the desk and says, “ Bacon , egg, and cheese on a roll. Condiments are in the bag. Enjoy ,” he leans in, his lips grazing my ear and whispers, “ I want to see you savoring every bite, the same way you savored my cock in the graveyard. The same way you’ll savor it the next time I have you on your knees.”
I feel a blush creep across my face. I’m at a loss for words. Standing up straight, he follows up with, “ Yeah ? Sounds good?”
I nod, my mouth slightly ajar, not able to form a coherent sentence.
“ Perfect .” He purrs with a wink. “ See you later, baby.” He places a quick kiss on my temple and retreats back to his seat.
I open the paper bag, reaching inside. The roll wrapped in aluminum reminds me of home. I unwrap it, revealing the smokey scent of bacon. Taking a big whiff, my stomach reacts with a growl. Typically , I’d survive on my morning coffee until lunchtime, but I think I could make an exception just this once.
Biting into the roll, I let out a small moan. It’s still warm and the delicious flavors explode on my tastebuds. Finishing my sandwich right before the lecture begins, I send a quick text to Emmett . I thank him for my breakfast and he responds immediately.
Emmett: I can think of a few ways you can thank me.
Rolling my eyes, I slip my phone away. Full -bellied, I reach into the bag for a napkin to clean off my fingers, but what I pull out is a ripped piece of looseleaf paper.
Little Obsession ,
Looking forward to the next time I get to make those pretty little eyes roll. Enjoy the food, you’ll need it.
- Emmett
Chuckling , I fold the note and tuck it into the pocket of my jeans. For the remainder of the lecture, I am laser focused, with renewed energy. When the class ends, I am eager to get home and see if Aspen is up for some desperately needed girl time.
Walking through the front door of the house, I drop my bag off my shoulder and let out a sigh .
“ Aspen !” I yell.
I hear her bedroom door open and her footsteps come barreling down the hallway towards me, “ What's up, babe?” she questions.
“ I need a girl’s night. Are you free? Please , please, please.” I beg her, holding onto her hands.
Her face lights up and she exclaims, “ Oh ! Yes , absolutely! Should I ask the others if they want to join?” I nod and leave her to invite the girls while I cater to my appearance which needs a quick touch-up.
I take a brisk shower and begin my normal makeup routine. Deciding to step out of my comfort zone for the night, I do a dark smokey eye, with winged liner and pair it with a mauve gloss. Letting my hair air dry, I allow it to fall naturally, leaving it straight.
Opening my closet, I try to figure out what vibe I’m going for tonight. I pick a short burgundy dress with a halter neck and open back. The material hugs my hips and sinches my waist, giving me the perfect hourglass figure.
I rummage around the bottom of my wardrobe in search of some suitable heels. Pulling out a pair of strappy black pumps, I step in front of the mirror to examine the finished look. I’m about to check my appearance when my phone vibrates.
Picking up my phone, I open up my messages and feel my eyes widen as my mouth falls slack from his text. I'm shocked, but only for a moment.
This is Emmett , the one who snuck into my room and fucked me while I was passed out. My cheeks redden as heat coils in my core at the reminder of that night.
Emmett: Where are you going all dressed up, little obsession?
I run over to the window and peer outside, trying to see where he's lurking. My mind short circuits as I come to the conclusion that he's not out there. That makes no sense. He had to have been there and then left before I had the chance to catch him, otherwise, how the fuck would he have known?
Shaking my head, I come back to the present moment. His stalker tendencies have no place here tonight. I'm beginning to like his attention too much, like him too much.
Giving myself a once-over, I rub my hands down the material. I turn to see myself from behind. A small smile forms on my face as I take in my final appearance. I feel good, and I'm excited to spend some time with my roommates.
I leave my room and find the other girls ready in the kitchen, laughing and talking. Aspen is preparing a round of pregame shots, and Verena’s bloodshot eyes light up when she sees me. She’s standing at the island where all of her smoking essentials are laid out in front of her.
We haven’t spent too much time together, but the fact that she’s excited to see me feels nice. She steps out from behind the island and walks over, giving me a small hug.
“ Hey Blair !” Her eyes roam over my outfit. “ Whoa , you look hot.” She compliments me. Smiling back at her, I say thank you while walking to Aspen who hands me a shot of who knows what. Scanning the room, I don’t see Lorelei . I wouldn’t mind if she didn’t join us, but part of me feels like I’m judging her without having ample time to get to know her .
“ Is Lorelei joining us tonight?” I ask the girls and look back down the hallway, towards Lorelei’s room.
Just then, her door swings open and she steps out, making her way into the kitchen. She looks like an actual angel in a cream colored minidress and matching strappy heels. The top half of her coily hair is in a soft ponytail, while the bottom half of her curls cascade down her back. She has on dainty gold jewelry, similar to the pieces I’m wearing. Her signature ruby red lipstick isn’t making an appearance tonight and I have to say it was a good choice.
Instead , a dusty pink gloss lays on her lips and a light coat of mascara completes her look. My first thought is how incredibly stunning she looks, but then she opens her mouth and I am brought back to the harsh reality of Lorelei .
“ Miss me?” She says with a smirk.
Before I get the chance to respond, Verena cuts in.
“ There you are, gosh you took fucking forever! I was so close to calling campus security on you. Would’ve had your very own ‘ Missing ’ poster, you little attention whore!” She shouts with a laugh. Lorelei sticks out her tongue and walks over to Aspen , who has finished pouring our shots.
Since I haven’t heard a single person speak about the disappearances, I take this moment to see how the girls are feeling about it.
“ Do they freak you guys out? The disappearances?” I ask before my doubts get the better of me. Lorelei scoffs and shakes her head dismissing my question. She takes back her shot and grabs the bottle, pouring another.
“ I thought tonight was supposed to be fun, why are we talking about sad shit?” She groans .
Bitch .
My mouth opens to respond but nothing comes out. Aspen gives her a soft slap on the wrist and brings the remaining shots over to Verena and I , at the island.
“ It’s definitely weird,” Aspen reassures me. “ More and more students are disappearing left and right. Just remember to always be prepared and carry protection!” She adds a wink to the end of her sentence and lets out a giggle.
Rubbing my arm with one hand, she grabs her shot in another and raises it. Verena , Lorelei , and I follow suit.
“ To shaking ass and getting smashed!” Aspen chants.
“ Whoo !” Verena shouts.
“ Girl’s night!” I say in a singsong tone, attempting to lift my spirits.
“ Aspen , please never say that again.” Lorelei groans and throws back her shots.
Verena orders a car, we grab our bags, and head out into the night.
We arrive at Sinner’s Child , a well known club that the students of Blackwood frequent. Getting out of the Uber , my jaw drops once I get a good look at the club. I’m staring at the sexiest building I’ve ever seen in my life.
The color of the brick is extremely dark, as dark as the almost midnight sky. A deep purple carpet is rolled out and black velvet ropes line the rug. A broad man wearing a tuxedo and an earpiece, presumably security, stands in front of the door.
“ IDs please.” He demands as we approach him, his voice low and stern.
My face reddens with embarrassment as I remember I’m not old eno ugh to be let in. I stand there fumbling with my purse, hoping I can sneak in behind the girls.
Verena notices and whispers in my ear, “ You just need your school ID as proof that you attend Blackwood . Breathe , little one.” She chuckles and takes my hand in hers. I hand my ID over to the guard, giving him a friendly smile. He returns my card with a nod and we step through the doors.
Immediately , my nostrils are hit with the smell of alcohol, sweat, and cologne. This place smells like money and seduction.
The club is dark and mysterious, with the exception of the dimly lit bar and the colored strobe lights that reflect over the building. The ambiance of laughter and joy permeates the room. I can feel the vibrations of the base deep in my bones. The high volume of the music smears a smile on my face. I love it here already.
Aspen grabs my arm and pulls me deeper into the club.
“ Let's get drinks!” She shouts, the only way to be heard over the blasting beat of the music. Coming up to the bar, I nibble on my bottom lip as I think about what to get. I’ve never been to a bar or a club. Any and all drinks I’ve consumed have been in the privacy of someone’s home.
Aspen seems to notice my anxiousness because she leans directly next to my ear, “ Get a vodka cranberry. They’re a common drink and they don't taste too bad.” She suggests. She pulls back and gives me a soft smile.
“ I'm getting one too!” she declares and bounces her eyebrows a couple of times. She waves her hand, flagging down the bartender .
The bartender greets us, his blue eyes sparkling as he leans with his elbows on the counter. Instead of a nametag, his name is embroidered on his polo, Scott .
“ What can I get for you two beautiful ladies?” I can’t help the blush that starts to coat my cheeks. Aspen quickly responds for the both of us. “ We’ll have two vodka cranberries, please,” she says with a cheesy grin.
“ As you wish, ladies.” He turns and grabs a brand of vodka I’m not familiar with and pours it into a shaker, along with the cranberry juice. I turn to Aspen , bumping her with my hip gently and I smile.
“ Thank you.” She returns it with one of her own while giving me a little nod. The bartender returns and places our drinks on the bar. “ Thank you, Scott ,” Aspen says in a flirtatious tone. We pick up our cups and Aspen hands him some cash before turning and heading into the crowd.
I let my eyes wander over the sea of dancing bodies as the colorful strobe lights shine down on them. A look of pure euphoria covers their features. An urging sensation washes over me, pulling me to join these strangers on the dance floor.
I chug my drink and grab Aspen's hand. She throws hers back and sets it down on a table as I pull her out towards the crowd.
My body sways to the music and my eyes flutter shut. The feeling of the rhythm pumps through my soul as I match my movements to the beat of the current song, Against The Wall by 1111 and BIIANCO . Aspen replicates my motions and dances alongside me. We rock our hips and let loose, enjoying the beat and the warmth the alcohol provides .
Verena and Lorelei catch up with us, drinks in hand. I don’t remember us getting separated, but I was so focused on experiencing a place like this for the first time, I didn’t realize they had wandered off. We’re laughing and I’m having such a good time, until all of a sudden the hairs on the back of my neck stand up as a feeling of unease flows down my spine.
My dancing falters as a rock settles in my gut. My mom’s words from our previous phone call ring through my head. “ Trust your gut,” repeats in my mind like a song stuck on replay.
I scout out the club surrounding me, hoping to see if I can spot anyone who’s looking my way and determine the root of this uneasy feeling. I meet eyes with a few people but much like me, they're taking in the electric atmosphere.
Warning bells go off in my head and the feeling intensifies. Goosebumps pebble over my skin. I need to leave.
Now .
I don't know how or why, but my body knows I'm in danger and just as mom said, I need to trust my gut.
Turning back to alert the group, I bump into someone from behind. Apologizing , I whip my head around, hoping to get an eye on the girls, but I can’t find them in the crowd of people consuming us.
I weave in and out of sweaty bodies as I pull my phone out of my purse and start a group chat with the three of them. If one doesn’t see it, I have two more chances of it being read.
Sending a text, I let them know I don’t feel so hot and I’m going to head back to the house. I decide not to tell them how I'm feeling because there’s no need for them to worry. It could very well ju st be the nerves of being in a big girl place, doing big girl things. I wouldn’t want to ruin their fun, especially when I'm the one that suggested we go out in the first place.
Glancing around one last time, I attempt to pinpoint where the danger is, before ordering a car to bring me home. Reaching the front door, I say goodnight to the security guard and wait on the sidewalk for my ride to arrive. I'm relieved to see people littering the streets of downtown Devil’s Lake . My phone pings and a notification tells me my ride was canceled by the driver.
Fucking great.
Walking down the street, I begin to order another car, but my spine rapidly straightens when the uneasy feeling finds me again.
I pick up my pace down the sidewalk, trying to get away from the feeling of being watched. I quickly realize my mistake when the sound of heavy footsteps pounds behind me and the amount of pedestrians significantly drops.
“ Fuck , fuck, fuck!” I whisper-shout under my breath.
My heart is hammering against my ribcage as I pick up my steady pace to a full-on sprint. Something is not right and every fiber of my being is screaming at me to run as fast as I can. The sound of their footsteps quickens behind me and I refuse to look back, refuse to lose my footing, and become another student plastered on a missing poster.
Continuing to run as fast as my legs will carry me, I frantically unlock my phone to text the first name that comes to mind. Still sprinting, I glance over to my right and spot an alleyway that houses an abandoned car and in a split second I'm d ashing down the alley and ducking behind it, willing my breathing to slow down.
The faint sound of my short breaths vaguely registers as I try to listen for the stranger beyond the thumping of my heart in my ears. Looking down at my phone, I see the message I sent to Emmett .
Me: Help!
My legs shake as I crouch behind the vehicle. I hear the stranger’s pounding steps and without thinking, I crawl underneath the car, hoping the darkness of the night will shield me from his vision. It's a tight fit, my stomach scrapes the ground as I army crawl underneath.
My knees and elbows scratch with the impact, cutting open and embedding small pebbles into my skin. I swallow down the need to wince at the pain it causes.
Squeezing my eyes shut I hold my breath, not trusting myself to not give away my hiding spot with my breathing alone. The footsteps come to a halt and I slowly open my eyes, aiming to peer out from under the car. I see his shoes, black combat boots, as he stands at the entrance of the alleyway.
It feels like an eternity passes before he starts walking toward the car. The car that I am currently hiding underneath. Fuck . I'm going to die. I’m going to die and it’s going to be in this dirty fucking alleyway. I’m going to end up as another missing student and I won't get to finish out my dream of taking over dad’s restaurant. My mom is going to be all alone and -
My thoughts are cut off as a phone rings loudly. I freeze, thinking it’s mine and I just gave away my hideout.
Fuck .
Fuck , I’m so fucking stupid. I'm definitely going to die.
“ I lost her.” The sound of a gruff male voice says, stopping my thoughts in their tracks. As their footsteps retreat, I let in a much needed breath of air at the realization that it was their phone, not mine .
But , what does he mean? Who did he lose? Me ?
A few minutes pass while I wait for my heart rate to slow and the adrenaline rush to calm. I need to find a way home but I don't want to leave the safety of my hiding spot. I don't know if he's still out there, lurking and waiting. The vibration in my hand pulls me from my spiraling thoughts as a message comes through. Looking at my phone, relief floods through me.
Emmett: I’m here. Where are you?
He’s here? What does he mean he’s here? I never said where I was, just that I needed help. With shaky hands, I text him back.
Me: I’m in an alleyway, underneath a car.
Emmett: Okay, stay there. I’m coming.
Why is he not questioning anything? How does he know where I am?
A minute passes by before I hear footsteps at the start of the alleyway . Two shiny, black leather dress shoes tapping on the ground. Once they reach the car, they halt for a moment.
My phone begins to ring, Emmett’s name flashing on the screen. They take a step back, and then their knees are bending. They’re checking beneath the car.
What if dress shoes are combat boots’s accomplice?
My heart starts pounding against my rib cage and my lungs struggle to suck in air. I’d never thought I’d say this, but I really fucking hope that the person standing out there is my stalker.
A hand wraps around the slightly hanging bumper and lifts it slowly, revealing their face and my own. Emmett’s glistening eyes meet mine and for a second, everything else in the world ceases to exist. His lips curve into a smile, showing his straight teeth.
He’s here. He found me. Only now that Emmett is here, do I feel safe.
‘ Come out, baby.” He says softly. I crawl out from under the car, knees burning and bleeding. Small pebbles stick to my sweaty hands. Once I’m standing, he lowers the car’s bumper back down to the ground.
“ You came,” I say in disbelief.
“ Of course I did, you needed me.” His brows furrow as if the statement confuses him and his voice is laced with a foreign warmth. He swipes the sticky strands of hair away from my face. Our eyes lock and he swiftly moves his hand down the side of my body and around my waist.
He pulls me in, wrapping his free hand around the opposite side of my body. I don’t know how long we stayed there, embracing one another, but it wasn’t long enough .
Being enveloped in his strong arms, the scent that’s uniquely him wafts all around me. He shushes me with soothing words as I tremble in his hold, the adrenaline starting to wear off.
I look up and see the promise of safety and affection reflected back at me in those deep, green eyes. It's then that I realize one thing. I'm officially falling for him.
For Emmett Blackwood .