Page 25 of Betrayed

“Late night studying?”

Before I could stop myself, I admitted, “I had nightmares all night.”

“I’m sorry. Want to tell me about it?”

WHAT?? I expected him to blow me off like my friends, but he sounded genuinely interested. I was still thinking about whether to share when he said, “Sometimes it helps lessen the impact if you give voice to it.”

I didn’t know if he was right, but I wanted to talk to someone about it.

“I was being chased, but I couldn’t see his face. No matter how fast I ran, I couldn’t get away.”

AJ was right; it felt less scary when I summed it up. I wouldn’t admit it to AJ, but it felt good to tell someone about it. My dad would’ve listened, but he had enough on his plate and I didn’t want to add more.

I expected AJ to make fun of me or downplay it.

“I’m not surprised, given the circumstances.” His voice had an unexpected note of empathy.

Was this an act, or was I wrong about AJ being a big, dumb ogre?

Chapter 15

AJ

Blake needed to make a pit stop, so I stopped at a travel center. I expected her to argue when I followed her into the store and stood outside the restroom, but she didn’t. While grateful she wasn’t arguing, I missed her fiery side.

While I waited, I called Meg, explaining the situation and asking if she could meet us at Grannie’s. I figured Blake could use a break and some supportive company. Blake could decline the offer if she didn’t want to talk to Meg.

Meg suggested bringing Emily and said, “We’ll help Blake feel right at home.”

Of course they would.

“Thanks, Meg.” I could hear someone talking to her in the background.

“Hang on, Jack wants to talk to you.”

A few seconds later, Jack asked, “Everything okay?”

“Yeah, Blake wanted to get away from campus, so I suggested Grannie’s.”

“I’m sure Mom will be thrilled, but why’d you suggested a coffee shop ninety minutes away?”

Good question.

Because I wanted to get to know her during the drive.

Because I wanted to be her knight in shining armor.

Because I wanted her to meet the people in my life.

“I thought it’d help Blake relax if she was out of her normal environment.”And her friends are shit.

“Okay.” I knew that tone—he didn’t believe me. “I found some inconsistencies in our research. I’ll stop by Grannie’s and fill you in.”

“I’ll let you know when I’m close.” The restroom door opened. “Gotta run.” I disconnected the call without waiting for a response.

“Need a water or snack for the road?” I asked.

“I’m good. Thanks.”

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