I thanked her, gathered my things, and walked out of the school.

The cold air hit my face as I stepped into the parking lot.

I walked quickly to my old sedan, my eyes scanning the parked cars and the street.

The text message was still open on my screen.

*Tell the boy to keep his mouth shut.*

It meant someone had been watching my apartment, or perhaps they had been watching me.

I got into my car, locked the doors immediately, and started the engine.

The heater roared to life, blowing lukewarm air onto my cold hands.

I drove across town, checking my rearview mirror at every intersection.

My apartment was in a modest complex on the south side of the river.

The rent was high for my budget, but it was safe, and the school district was excellent.

I parked in my designated space and walked quickly up the concrete stairs to the second floor.

My heart hammered against my ribs as I approached my door, the same door from the photo.

I looked around the empty hallway, but there was no one there.