Page 45 of Volik

Now, I can trace every step she’s taken.

Now, I can find her. Anywhere.

The rain starts to fall a little harder.

The campus looks empty. But people are watching.

From windows. Inside cars. That one kid hiding behind a tree.

There are also security cameras. And that means I should be careful.

I should act like a gentleman.

But I need to get to Nix.

I can feel her spiraling panic in the way my heart is starting to race. And the only thing that can help her now is me.

And the only thing that will settle the roiling power inside me is her.

Our bond is newly formed and still volatile. And it seems that the farther apart we become, the worse it gets.

Thunder rolls in the distance, moving closer.

I could have asked the dean to give me her address. But… this will be quicker.

I close my eyes.

Orchids.

I breathe.

She’s everywhere.

All around me.

Unseen flower petals dance in the air. Hovering above my head, lingering like a treasure map.

Smiling, I slide my eyes open and turn toward Nix’s apartment.

Then, not caring who watches, I jump.

Chapter 24

Nix

My heart is pounding wildly as I shove my door open.

I glance over my shoulder, confirming no one is following me, then I step into my apartment and drag the door shut behind me.

Thunder rolls above the building.

It’s just a storm.

I kick my boots off, then take the few steps into the living room.

Outside, heavy clouds drape the land in darkness, leaving the inside of my apartment even darker.

I drop my bag onto the couch and keep moving toward the balcony doors.