Page 90 of Volik

It was the right thing. Staying away. Because I never would’ve been able to teach class with him staring at me. But still, I… I think I miss him.

Feeling ridiculous over that thought, I pull the sliding door open a foot, letting the cool evening air float into my apartment.

How can I miss a man I don’t even know? Who I saw this morning?

I chew on my lip as I head down the hall to my room.

Better yet, how can the mere presence of that man make me feel… better, calm, peaceful?

When Volik appeared in my classroom this morning, I felt relief at his nearness. And didn’t even think twice about going to him. Touching him. Kissing him.

I groan as I reach my room.

For someone who has gotten physically ill over any hint of intimacy, Volik sure has the opposite effect on me.

I’ll think more clearly after a shower.

I stop just inside my bedroom.

The bed frame is gone.

I spin in a slow circle.

It’s completely gone.

Volik, obviously, is the culprit.

After he left this morning, I piled up some of the broken bits next to the dresser. I had no idea how I’d dispose of the ruined bed frame. But now…

I shake my head and find a pair of pajamas.

Steam billows out of the bathroom as I open the door.

With my wet hair pulled back in a thick braid, I step into the hall wearing a pair of loose gray sleep shorts and a matching tank.

I feel clean. But not relaxed.

Every minute that ticks by without my vampire makes my skin feel tighter.

Where is Volik?

Is he okay?

Did he change his mind?

Is he done with me?

Angry with myself for feeling this way, I clench my jaw and head toward the kitchen.

I’m going to shut and lock the balcony door.

It’s not until I’m turning the corner into the main room that I smell it.

Him.

Volik is standing just inside the still-open balcony door, his minty scent floating in the breeze.

I halt.