Page 66 of Bittersweet Revenge

“Esme?” I turned to see Archie back at the door, frowning at Ms. White’s hand around my wrist. “It’s getting late. Let’s go.”

“Just let it go,” Ms. White whispered again before dropping my wrist.

“What was that all about?” Archie asked as we exited the darkened school. It definitely had a weird vibe, being here when it was empty.

“I’m not sure. She was telling me to be careful I guess.”

“Uh-huh… I still don’t like her.”

I chuckled. “You don’t like anyone.”

“That’s not true. I like you.”

“No you don’t; you love me.”

He sighed, burying his hands in his pockets. “That I do. So, what do you think of her sob story?” He asked as we stopped by my car.

I leaned against the driver’s door. “I believe it. I’m sure Antoine will be able to check her story now, to see if it’s true.”

“Yeah. I’m still not a fan.”

“Yeah, Caleb’s not either. I mean, he knew she was lying about mom from the moment he saw her.”

He cocked his head to the side. “You sound impressed.”

“I am.”

“Talking about Caleb, I noticed that you guys seem to be…friendlier with each other. How did that happen?”

Ah, this morning’s interrupted chat had not been forgotten.

I did my best to contain my grin. Archie was pretending it was not a big deal, but I could see how much he wanted to know.

“Does it matter?”

He shrugged, but I didn’t miss the frustration flash across his face.

I sighed. “I’m not sure. I think he is forgiving me for walking away. I think he is starting to see I'm not the conniving bitch he thought I was. At least...I hope so.”

Archie snorted. “Took him long enough. For an evil genius, he can be so dim sometimes.” He detailed my face. “You care for him, don’t you?”

I nodded. “Of course I do. I know he won’t believe it. I even know it doesn't make much sense, but…” I shook my head. “I think you were right. I’m going to tell him everything. I don’t think he’ll betray us. He didn’t with White and he’s kept me shielded at his house even though he could have just thrown me to the wolves for the entertainment factor.”

“Maybe just wait until after dinner with father. He has something up his sleeve. I know that. I just–” He growled in frustration. “He’s not telling me much these days for some reason.”

“Do you think he knows?” I paled, panicking at the thought of Archie being made responsible. The price he would have to pay for betraying our father would be of biblical proportions.

“About us?” He shrugged. “Maybe, but you know what? I don’t care. If he does, we’ll figure something out.”

“Yeah.” But my voice didn't convince him nor me. “I’ll still tell Caleb about what White said though.”

“Of course.” He leaned down to kiss my forehead. “Okay, well, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Yep, I’ll text you when I get home.”

“Okay, and hey, don’t worry too much. We’ve got each other's back. We’ll be fine. Nothing’s going to happen to you. I would not allow it.”

“I know Archie. It’s just getting all too real.”

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