Chapter 71. Death Anniversary

S:

The house is quiet, for once.

Rae’s weight is still on my lap. Her warmth, her scent—coffee and vanilla and peace. I could stay here all day.

Until—

The door creaks open.

“Eliza,” Rae calls out before I even turn.

I glance over my shoulder.

She’s in loose jeans and a sweatshirr. Her hair’s wet—just out of a shower.

“Good morning to you too,” Eliza says, walking in with a grin. “Just heard the news. You finally caught the stalker?”

Rae nods.

Eliza exhales. “Thank God. Now we can go back to running our café in peace.”

I shake my head, letting out a quiet breath. “Not yet.”

She frowns.

“We found the stalker, yes,” I say. “But not his boss. The one who sent him. And until we do—”

“You’re not stepping out that door.” I look at Rae. “Not alone.”

Rae rolls her eyes fondly. “Protective much?”

“Always.”

Eliza sighs dramatically. “So we have to wait a little longer?”

“Beside