Haunting Adeline (H. D. Carlton) – Chapter 10

Haunting Adeline (H. D. Carlton) - Chapter 10

Chapter 10 of 'Haunting Adeline' by H. D. Carlton delves into the intense psychological conflict faced by the protagonist, Addie. As she grapples with the disappearance of Arch, the chapter explores themes of fear, obsession, and the haunting presence of a stalker. The narrative unfolds with suspenseful moments, including the discovery of severed hands that heighten the tension. Addie's struggle for safety leads her to consider security measures while confronting her dark past. This chapter is essential for fans of romantic suspense and those intrigued by complex character dynamics.

Key Points

  • Explores Addie's emotional turmoil following Arch's disappearance.
  • Highlights the discovery of severed hands, escalating the tension.
  • Introduces Daya's role in helping Addie with security measures.
  • Examines themes of obsession and the impact of a stalker on Addie's life.
,
  • newtopiccyclegrowin
393
/ 16
“H
Chapter 10
The Manipulator
ave you heard anything?” I interrogate, my phone growing slick
from the persistent anxiety since Arch went missing from my
doorstep.
“No one has been able to locate him,” Daya answers through the phone.
She’s been looking into Arch’s disappearance herself since I told her what
happened last night, never one to rely on the police to solve anything.
But Daya doesn’t have much to go off of. She hacked into Arch’s known
enemy’s systems—their cameras, phones, laptops, and the GPS on their
cars. Just like we suspected, they had no connecon to Arch’s
disappearance—at least not that we could find.
It was my shadow who took him. And without having any idea who he is,
there’s really no way to find Arch.
“I can’t believe this is happening. I praccally got this man killed,” I say,
tears pricking at my eyes.
“Babe, I hate to say this, but I don’t think that’s the worst thing that
could’ve happened. I think this guy would’ve really hurt you. The things he
did to his ex-wife… they’re unspeakable. He wasn’t a good man. None of
those guys were…” she trails off, and I don’t need her words to know she’s
thinking about Luke.
She said they had an incredible night together, but she ghosted him the
second she found out what kind of guy Arch is—was.
She said anyone who is friends with a man like Arch isn’t a nice man
themselves.
Can’t really disagree with that, either.
I take a deep breath. “I know, you’re right. I guess I just don’t like that he
was hurt—maybe killed—because of me. I would’ve much preferred one of
his many enemies caught up with him.”
“Yeah, that would’ve been the best-case scenario,” she allows.
“The best-case scenario would’ve been a wild night of hot sex with a hot
guy where I orgasm mulple mes and then send him off on his merry
way,” I interrupt.
She pauses a beat before saying, “Yeah, you’re right. But that’s not what
would’ve happened. Not with this guy’s history. He’s violent.”
“Well, apparently, so is my stalker.”
“I know, which is why I’m hooking you up with a security system. You’re
not going to be another stasc, not more than you already are. If you die,
I have to follow, and I’m quite aached to my body. God gave me a good
one this lifeme.”
I roll my eyes at her dramacs, especially because she’s not even
religious.
“Okay, just bill me for it,” I agree. I like the idea of having cameras in my
house. It makes me feel beer about someone sneaking around when I
can’t see them.
“I’ll be over later to set them up.”
Geng cameras will be the first thing to happen in a month that gives
me any semblance of safety. No maer how fragile it is.
I’m just finishing up another chapter when I hear the USPS truck pull up.
The mailman has always been a prey nice guy. He doesn’t sck around
long and spends most of his me glancing around nervously.
The last me I asked him about it, he said something evil happened
here.
And since a man went missing off my doorstep last night, I'd say several
evil things have happened here.
I open the door just as he’s dropping off several cases of books. I have to
sign these and get them shipped out to my readers.
Eight large boxes later, the mailman is panng, sweat running down his
light brown face.
“Thank you, Pedro. Sorry for all the boxes,” I say, waving awkwardly.
He waves a hand in acknowledgment before geng back in his truck and
shoong off.
I sigh, staring at the boxes with a look of dread. These are going to be a
bitch to haul in. I step out, but my foot knocks into the corner of something
heavy.
Looking down, I noce a small, lidded cardboard box. There's no
shipping label on it, which means Pedro didn't drop this one off.
My heart plummets, a burst of anxiety hing me right in the gut.
I don’t know why, but my eyes dart towards the woods as if I’m actually
going to see someone standing there. I don’t. Of course, I don’t.
Sucking in a deep breath, I pick up the box. And then nearly drop it when
I see a smear of blood where the box was sing.
“Oh, fuck. Fuck, fuck, fuckity fuck. God? Please don’t allow this to
happen to me on this fine Sunday morning. Please let me not find what I
think I’m going to find,” I pray out loud, my voice cracking as a drop of
blood lands on my toe.
Hands shaking, I set the box back down and just panic. There’s a drop of
blood on my toe. I knew there was blood on my hands already, but now my
toes? I can’t take this.
Before I can think about what I’m doing, I p the lid off with my foot.
Hands.
Severed hands are in the box, just like I feared.
“Oh, fuck me. Fuck this shit.”
I twirl and run back in the house, scrambling to find my phone to call
Daya.
The line rings for all of two seconds before she answers.
“I’ll be there in a few hou—”
“Daya.”
“What happened?” she asks sharply.
“A hand. And another hand. Two of them. In a box. On my porch.”
She curses, but my panic mutes the sound.
“Don’t do anything yet. Wait ll I get there,” Daya orders. “Go take a
couple of shots and wait for me.”
I nod, despite that she can’t see me. But it doesn’t stop me from
nodding again and then hanging up without a word.
/ 16
End of Document
393
You May Also Like

FAQs of Haunting Adeline (H. D. Carlton) – Chapter 10

What significant event occurs in Chapter 10 of Haunting Adeline?
In Chapter 10, Addie discovers severed hands on her porch, leading to a surge of panic and dread. This shocking revelation ties back to her fears surrounding Arch's disappearance and the stalker who has been haunting her. The chapter captures Addie's emotional turmoil as she grapples with the implications of this gruesome find and her growing sense of vulnerability. Daya, her friend, plays a crucial role in supporting Addie through this crisis, emphasizing the importance of safety and security.
How does Addie respond to the threats she faces in Chapter 10?
Addie responds to the threats by considering the installation of a security system, reflecting her desire for safety amidst the chaos. She grapples with feelings of guilt regarding Arch's situation, believing her involvement may have led to his harm. The chapter showcases her internal conflict as she weighs the need for protection against the fear of becoming a damsel in distress. Ultimately, Addie's determination to confront her fears and seek help from Daya highlights her resilience.
What themes are explored in Chapter 10 of Haunting Adeline?
Chapter 10 explores themes of fear, obsession, and the psychological impact of stalking. Addie's experiences illustrate the emotional toll that threats can take on an individual, as she navigates her feelings of guilt and vulnerability. The chapter also delves into the complexities of friendship, as Daya's support becomes a lifeline for Addie during this harrowing time. The juxtaposition of Addie's past traumas with her current dangers creates a gripping narrative that resonates with readers.
What role does Daya play in Chapter 10 of Haunting Adeline?
Daya serves as a crucial support system for Addie in Chapter 10, providing both emotional and practical assistance. She encourages Addie to take safety precautions, including installing a security system, to protect herself from the lurking threats. Daya's presence highlights the importance of friendship in times of crisis, as she helps Addie confront her fears and navigate the challenges posed by the stalker. Their dynamic adds depth to the narrative, emphasizing themes of loyalty and resilience.

Related of Haunting Adeline (H. D. Carlton) – Chapter 10