On his way back from the cemetery, Brandon did not head home.
The road toward his apartment appeared before him, familiar and automatic, but he drove past the turn without slowing.
Instead, he took a wide detour through side streets and looping avenues, checking his mirrors at every intersection.
No headlights stayed too long behind him.
No car matched his turns.
Still, he did not relax.
By the time he reached the quiet, tree-lined street where Levi's mansion stood, the sky had deepened into full night. The property lights glowed warm against the manicured hedges, illuminating tall iron gates and the long driveway beyond.
Brandon parked several houses away, beneath the shadow of an old oak tree.
He turned off the engine.
Silence rushed in.
Lyse had been living there.
She had not returned to her apartment since Levi had taken her away.
Taken.
That was the word Brandon used in his mind.
As if she had been stolen property.
As if she had not walked willingly.
