Page 66 of Shhh…It’s A Killer Story

Another pause.

"You haven't actually invited me in."

"No."

"I noticed."

He folded his arms.

"I was hoping that would discourage you."

"It didn't."

"I can see that."

I smiled brightly.

"Excellent."

Without another word, I stepped around him. There was the smallest hesitation behind me before he sighed.

"You're just walking in?"

"I was under the impression we were past formalities."

"We've spoken approximately twelve sentences."

"Thirteen."

He stared.

"I counted."

Behind me, Frank whispered,

"Liar."

Gerald snorted.

"You stopped counting after 'hello.'"

Max trotted happily into the house as though he'd personally approved the decision. Elias rubbed a hand over his jaw before closing the door.

"I usually lock that."

"I'll pretend that it was directed at the dog."

"It wasn't."

"I know."

I wandered into the kitchen, slowing just enough to glance around as though taking it in for the first time. Simple cabinets. Dark countertops. Everything in its place. Everything… Almost exactly where I'd imagined.

"Hm."

I reached toward one cupboard but stopped.

"No..."