Knox
I’m sittingat the table out in the backyard when my phone rings. My brother’s name stares back at me.
“Yes, Kane?”
“Fuckin’ hell... where do I even start?”
“Just say it.”
I don’t want to listen to him carry on. There’s no need for bullshit. He needs to be clear from the beginning.
“Zara’s coming back home tonight, and she’s staying for a whoooollle week.”
My body turns to stone. My phone falls onto the table, but I remain paralyzed. I take a moment before I slowly pick up my phone.
“Bro, you there? Knox!”
“I’m here.”
“Has Mom called you about the vigil?” he asks.
“I had a few missed calls...” I’ve never been able to forgive her for leaving us.
He lets out a heavy sigh, causing me to frown.
“It’s for Misty, isn’t it?” I ask.
“Mmm,” he answers solemnly.
“I’ll be there.”
“I’ll keep you updated. And Knox?”
“Yeah?”
“We’re having dinner tomorrow at Dad’s. Six o’clock. And Zara’s coming.”
My dead black heart beats for the first time in a long time. “I wouldn’t miss it.”
“I bet,” he says with a hint of sarcasm.
“See you then!”
“Is that a smile?”
I look up to see Viper walking toward me with a grin.
“You smiled!” he says, but my eyes narrow. He takes a seat beside me and playfully elbows me. “It’s okay,” he whispers. “It can be our little secret.”
I push him. “Fuck off!”
He laughs. “Ohhh and defensive!” He blinks a few times, then his eyes widen. “It’s that chick, isn’t it?” He clicks his fingers. “What’s her name...” He points at me. “Zara!”
I give him a clipped nod. “She’s back in Crown Village.”
He rubs his hands theatrically, true to form. “When can I meet her? I’ve been wanting to ever since you told me and Reaper about her.”
I curse under my breath. “Look, I don’t think you will.” She probably won’t even want to talk to me.
