Dangerous Designs Page 14

  ***

  So, that was it. Eric sat back, stunned at the sheer simplicity of the steps that led to her crossing the veil and entering his world. At the same time, it scared the hell out of him. If it happened once, or twice in this case, it could happen anytime with anyone. Not good.

  He studied Storey's face. She'd dropped her gaze to the rocks at her feet. Ashamed? She appeared to be over her panic attack and now sat looking curiously embarrassed, concerned or both. He still had trouble reading her facial expressions.

  "So, now that I've told you, I'm heading home." She sent him a quick uncertain glance before hopping off the big rock.

  "Wait."

  Hesitating, she stalled, her back to him. "What now?"

  "I believe you." He walked around to stand in front of her.

  The impatience drained from her face as hope filled her eyes. "You do? Really?"

  "Yes."

  They stood and looked at each other for a long moment, the beginning of acceptance sparking between them.

  "Don't suppose you'd care to demonstrate, would you?" Eric asked.

  A half frown crossed her face. She glanced at the door and then back at him. "Only if you know how to unlock the damn door from the inside."

  Right. That's how she'd gotten out both times. He looked back the way they'd come, his mind spinning with possibilities. "Maybe."

  "Maybe, isn't good enough. I don't relish the idea of being stuck in there any longer than I was today." She added in a barely audible voice, "And preferably not that long."

  "Can I see the book and the pencil, if you don't mind?"

  She studied his face. "I suppose that's okay. We have to go to my house then."

  He motioned toward the path and grinned. "After you."