Page 157 of Ex Somnis

“Nevan is here. That’s the problem.”

I turn to look at the other side of the bed, but it’s empty. My stomach drops.

“He’s weird, and he’s not wearing anything, and he’s writing something on the wall. I tried to stop him, but⁠—”

“Don’t.” I’m already out of bed, tucking the phone between my shoulder and cheek, and pulling on Nevan’s shirt by feel. “Don’t wake him. He’s sleepwalking.” I put the shirt on inside-out, fix it, and move to the drawer to grab some boxers and another shirt for Nevan.

“Stay with him and make sure he doesn’t hurt himself.”

“That’s a lot of responsibility.”

“You’ll be great.”

“Lenny.”

“And find him a blanket.”

“Why?”

“Because apparently he’s naked, Jasper.”

“Oh, right.”

“I’m on my way.”

“Hurry.”

“I’m hurrying.” I turn around and immediately walk directly into the bedframe. Pain explodes through my toe, and I hiss through my teeth.

“Um, is everything okay?”

“Perfect,” I grit out. “See you in a bit.”

I end the call and swear under my breath as I run down the stairs. My toe fucking hurts as I detour into Ridge’s room without knocking. He’s asleep, lying perfectly still on his back, but his hair is a mess.

He looks younger, softer, and cuddlier. For one terrible second, I daydream that I’m here to climb into bed beside him.

Snapping out of it, I grab underwear and sweatpants from the pile of my clothes Paul has somehow washed, folded, and organized on top of Ridge’s drawer. Then I quietly leave the room, get dressed, and throw my hair into the fastest bun of my life. On my way to the front door, I grab my jacket and boots, then stop.

Car keys.

Right.

They’re in my purse, but I have no idea where it is. I chance a glance out of the window and remember that my Bumble Bitch is also missing, still at the Vaughns’ mansion.

Dammit.

Then I spot Paul’s keys hanging on the hook.

This is technically theft. Very temporary theft. So borrowing.

Yep, emergency borrowing.

Because Nevan is naked, and I feel like that changes the rules.

Without another thought, I grab the keys. Paul won’t mind, and if he does, I’ll explain. He’ll understand.

I pull open the door and head into the early morning.