Chapter 55
ALARIC
Yet my spirits are still in the gutter. So much so that I’m sitting in my office, finishing up a report that doesn’t need to be done until next month.
The distraction is necessary. If I’m not drowning in work, I’m pining after Evangeline.
Just this morning, when I stepped out of my building, I spotted a flash of animal print, and on instinct, I took off like an apex predator, jogging half a block after a woman in a sundress.
Thankfully, her dark red hair caught my attention before I properly embarrassed myself or terrified her.
My reaction was instant and visceral. It was also eye-opening.
I’ve stayed holed up in my office for most of the day. It’s a feat, really, considering it’s race day. I even made Quinn walk with me to and from the pit wall so I’d have a buffer on the off chance I ran into Evangeline.
Mick’s questions have played on repeat in my mind for the last twenty-four hours.
As the dull ache behind my eyes flares once more, I rub at my forehead, mentally and physically exhausted.
I really need to sleep tonight. Once I’m rested, I’ll formulate a plan.
I double-checked Evangeline’s hotel reservation, confirming she doesn’t check out for two more days.
That gives me ample time to figure out how to navigate all this.
A soft knock sounds on my door, and on instinct, my spine snaps straight.
It’s nearly nine. I can’t imagine anyone else is here this late. That fact ignites a tiny spark of hope. Maybe it’s her. Would she really come here?
Holding my breath, I rise out of my chair and make my way to the door.
I open it slowly at first, then swing it open wide, surprise and confusion coalescing in my gut, and take a step back.