I’ve driven myself to the edge countless times since, especially after the fire, and my sleep paralysis has become more frequent and filled with images that make me cry and scream.
Only internally, though.
On the outside, I can’t move. I can’t call for help. I can only shriek in the confinements of my soul.
It’s like I’m yelling into the void with no one to hear me. I’m being ripped apart by the black hands and no one can save me.
I’ve started drinking all sorts of energy drinks, coffee, and any caffeinated stuff to stop myself from closing my eyes at night.
Sleep scares the shit out of me.
Another drink slides in front of me. I stare at the sparkling blue and realize I finished my current one.
Landon winks at me.
I smile but with no humor whatsoever as I snatch it.
Caffeine equals no sleep. Even if it’s unhealthy.
“Now that you've cooled down,” he whispers near my ear. “How about we talk business?”
“Business?”
“Annika takes you to the Heathens’ mansion for parties, no?”
“Rarely.”
“Rarely is an entry.”
I narrow my eyes. “Why are you asking?”
“I thought maybe you could finish what you started and get me a layout of the mansion.”
“Are you serious?”
“Why wouldn’t I be?”
“You must be out of your mind if you think I’ll help you again after you instigated arson.”
“Shh. They think it was the Serpents’ doing. They even burned their warehouse and beat them to a pulp for revenge. I finished the popcorn so fast while watching that particular show.”
A sadistic glint shines in his eyes. He’s enjoying this. Too much. It’s almost a part of who he is now, and nothing will stop him from carrying out his plans.
People like Lan don’t have a motive, a goal, or an endgame. They just get off on causing anarchy.
“I’m not going to help you with your plans,” I say with a calm I don’t feel. “Not now, not ever.”
Then I stand up, providing a flimsy excuse about needing the bathroom.
Instead, I go outside for fresh air, thankful for the slow disappearance of all the noise.
Some drunk uni kids stumble out, acting all rowdy and reeking of alcohol.
I walk in the opposite direction and exhale when I reach the car park.
My hair stands on end and I get that distinctive feeling of being watched and cryptic eyes following my every move.
Could it be him?