Focus.
“Everything will be okay,” I say to myself, my sharp tone reaching into my chest, convincing me I’ll be fine. “You haven’t been pulled over yet. It won’t happen today.”
I’m at the door, phone in hand, ready to remove the SIM card, when a notification flashes on my screen.
Her.
And just like that, heat and need take over, making my sweatshirt and jeans cling to my body.
Another message arrives before I can read the first one.
My patience is already snapping as I unlock my phone and open her texts.
Lilith:Good morning, Dr. Lockwood ;) Before you ask, no, I didn’t wait up. Just couldn’t sleep well without you curled around me. Anyway. How are you after last night? Are you going to bed? Tell me everything.
Lilith:Oh, and Hope approves. Welcome to the family!
My lungs expand, my lips twitching.
Happiness. It spreads through me like wildfire.
Briefly.
Suspicion kicks the fuzzy feeling out, drenching me in darkness.
Normally, one of her first questions when we take lunch breaks together—whenever possible—or when we meet after work is,How are your patients?
I told her I was going to the hospital, and yet she hasn’t asked about them.
A cold shiver slides down my spine.
Does she know?
I shake my head. Groan in frustration. Run a hand through my hair.
The pull on the roots is what finally yanks me out of the never-ending loop ofdoes she, doesn’t she.
Enough of this shit. This is the last time I consider this crazy idea.
I’m done questioning her. Fucking done.
She’s my sweet, innocent Lilith, dammit. She isn’t a threat.
Hell, I even plan on confessing to everything one day.
Me:Thank Hope for me. And Lilith?
Lilith:What?
Me:Go to bed. Catch some sleep. We’ll be together again before you know it.
Three dots dance across my screen. Stop. Dance again. Then?—
Lilith:I love you.
That one I love you seeps into my bloodstream and cleanses me.
I allow myself to smile. To text herI love you too.