The house eventually settled into silence.

Victor, Grant, and Elliot had taken the guest rooms along the east hallway. Their low voices and the occasional sound of a door closing had faded more than an hour ago. Rain still tapped faintly against the windows, softer now, as if the storm itself had grown tired. I sat on the edge of the guest bed in the dark, still wearing the black dress, unable to make myself change or lie down.

They all want you.

Richard’s words had followed me up the stairs and into the room. They sat under my skin like a second pulse. Every time I closed my eyes...