In a world teeming with 8.1 billion people, I never imagined that my partner in mischief would be none other than Pepper Woods herself. It's exceptional, really, how life can surprise you. That one hour with Pepper was an unexpected joy, eclipsing the decades spent with my ex-best friend, Thea.
Pepper and I had forged a connection that defied explanation, a connection that had led us to this moment of exhilaration, mischief, and pure amazement.
After our wild dash from Kol's neighborhood, the guards had given up the chase. Finally, we were free to plop down and catch our breath. Our hearts were racing, and we panted like crazy.
Sitting on the bench beside the street lamp, we took a moment to catch our breath. Pepper turned to me with a grin, her eyes reflecting the adrenaline rush we ha
