Chapter 73: The Drive

"What took you so long?"

Mike's whisper in my ear is hot and wet, causing me to flinch almost violently away from him. "Sorry, what?"

"I said, what took you so long?"

I grimace, trying to look upset. "Sorry, Mike. I have a stomachache. I think I need to go home."

"Oh no, that's terrible!" Someone's voice drips with insincerity. I can't tell who's talking, because my vision barely focuses on any of them. I'm too busy worrying about the stupid panther-person's vague warning. "We were just getting started."

I force a weak smile in someone's direction. Maybe it was her talking. Who knows. "Such a shame. Sorry, everyone."

There's a chorus of fake sympathies. I nod, playing along with their charade of concern. My skin crawls with the need to flee.

Mike leans in close, his breath hot on my ear once again. Gross. "I'll walk you back. It's not safe out there for a lady alone."