i-Spy | A Stalker Romance

Chapter 23: The touch of the Shadow [M]

(Trigger Warning: Depiction of CNC; Consensual non-consensual play, and well... basically a small smut because you all are thirsty over Kairo need therapy like me.)

Stella's P.O.V. 

The house was quiet, a stark contrast to the turmoil inside me. I dropped my bags on the couch and collapsed beside them, staring at the ceiling. The shopping spree had been a welcome distraction, but the reality of our conversation weighed heavily on me. I tried to push the thoughts aside, focusing instead on the ridiculous outfits Jenna had made me try on.

Just as I was beginning to relax, Jenna burst through the front door, her face lit up with excitement. "Come outside, Stella. I have one more surprise for you."

I groaned, my body still aching from the day's events. "Jenna, I think I have had enough surprises for life. Can't it wait?"

She shook her head, her grin widening. "Nope. You're gonna love this. Trust me."

With a sigh, I pushed myself off the couch and followed her outside. Parked in the driveway was a sleek black car, its paint glistening in the fading light. My jaw dropped.

"Jenna, what...?"

She bounced on her heels, unable to contain her excitement. "This is your real birthday gift! I wanted to give it to you sooner, but, you know, things got in the way."

I took a step closer, my fingers grazing the smooth surface. "Is this...?"

"Yes, it's yours. A brand new Porsche 911. Perfect speed, great mileage. I knew you'd love it."

I turned to her, shaking my head. "Jenna, I can't accept this. It's too much."

She folded her arms and gave me a stern look. "You're not saying no. You'll need it for commuting, and besides, it's your birthday gift. You can't refuse it."

"But—"

"No buts, Stella. You deserve this. And it's not just a gift; it's practical. You need a reliable car, and this is it."

I bit my lip, torn between gratitude and practicality. But the car was beautiful, and Jenna was right. I did need it. Finally, I relented, a smile tugging at my lips. "Fine. I accept. Thank you, Jenna."

She squealed and threw her arms around me. "You're welcome! Now, let's take it for a spin!"

I couldn't deny the thrill that coursed through me as I slid into the driver's seat. The car felt like an extension of myself, every detail perfect. Jenna hopped into the passenger seat, and I started the engine, the purr of the motor sending a quake down my back.

We sped down the empty streets, the wind whipping through our hair. For a moment, I forgot about the chaos and danger looming over us. It was just me, Jenna, the open road, and the fresh air coursing through my face. The car handled like a dream, and I couldn't help but push it faster, reveling in the freedom and speed.

Jenna laughed beside me, her joy infectious. "See? Told you you'd love it!"

I grinned, the weight on my shoulders lifting just a bit. "Yeah, you were right. This is perfect."

~~~

I pulled away from the Plaza, dropping Jenna off after our eventful day together, but I couldn't shake the lingering thoughts about everything she had revealed. My mind was a whirlwind of emotions, from disbelief to a strange sense of obligation towards my family and their tangled secrets.

Back in my quiet room, the evening sun cast long shadows across the floor, painting the walls in hues of gold and amber. Just as I settled in, Sophia's call broke through my contemplation. Her voice, always confident and direct, cut through the uncertainty swirling in my mind.