Читать книгу Blood RED - Paul Kane - Страница 14

CHAPTER FOUR

They emerged from the bar at gone midnight, long after most of the other patrons had left, holding each other up for support.

“Either ... either there’s something wrong with my eyes,” said Steph, “or I’ve forgotten my glasses.”

Rachael hiccupped. “You ... you don’t wear glasses.”

“Oh yeah!” Steph guffawed. “Must be the world that’s blurry.” She took out her mirror and applied more make-up. Rachael shook her head, not really seeing the point. Then Steph got out her mobile phone. “This ... this is why you need to carry one, Rach. In case ... in case of emergencies.”

Rachael watched her companion trying to reach a taxi service. After several attempts, she gave up. “Can’t get a signal from here.”

Rachael hiccupped again. “See? Useless!”

“One ... one of these days you’re ... you’re going to be glad of one of these ... Come on.”

Steph linked her arm in Rachael’s, and as they were about to walk up the street towards the Holy Grail of phone signals, Rachael suddenly turned.

“What?” asked Steph, having trouble remaining upright.

Rachael stared up the dimly-lit street. She had the funniest feeling someone was watching her.

“What is it?” asked Steph, impatient.

Rachael shook her head. “Nothing.” Her hiccups were gone. “Let’s go and order that taxi.”

But as they stumbled up the road, Rachael couldn’t help looking over her shoulder one last time with a worried expression on her face.

* * *

That could have gone better, he mused to himself.

Still, as introductions went, he’d had worse. At least he’d gained some information, so all was not entirely lost. If that idiot hadn’t shown up and ruined things, he might not have needed to plan this next step at all. Might have been over and done with by now, ditched the friend and gone back to her place. But where would the fun be in that? Plus, he’d have to leave this city immediately—taking on yet another persona. Too many people had seen him tonight, too many unanswered questions would surround her death.

Better to blend into the background for now, to play the game. Then the rewards would be that much greater. He could wait, watch and wait—just not that long.

Tomorrow was another day. And she wasn’t going anywhere—after all that effort to find her today, she’d fucking better not be!

No, she was his for the taking. He smiled at that.

His for the taking at last.