“Shit. I’m on my way.” I hang up the phone and start for the door.
Dammit, I’ve been drinking so I can’t drive. Whatever, I’m faster on my feet anyway.
“You need me to come?” Gabe asks, following me to the door.
“No, it’s fine. Everything’s fine.” I lie before I leave and run all the way home.
***
I run up the front door steps while a worried Gwen runs up behind me.
“I didn’t want to go inside until you got here because well…” she sniffles.
I shake my head, my keys jostling in my hands until my shaky fingers find the right one. “No, it’s okay. I’m glad you didn’t.” Knowing Derrick has a weapon on him makes me uneasy. I wouldn’t want him to be alone with Gwen.
We step into the house and immediately look around. The place is still. No sign of disruption. Walking to the kitchen, I slip out one of the biggest kitchen knives we have. I swallow deeply looking at it in my palm, feeling the weight of it in my hand.
“You prepared to use that?” Gwen hesitantly asks, stepping into the doorway.
I clench my teeth. “If I have to.”
She nods softly, stepping out of the way as I walk past her.
Honestly, no. I’m not sure if I could use it. But, if it comes down to it…I may just have to if it’s the only option I have.
“You should stay down here.” I whisper to her.
“Oh, my ass. There’s no way.” She shakes her head.
Alright. I nod, knowing there’s no winning this argument.
Creeping upstairs slowly, I listen carefully to hear of any movements apart from our own.
Each step is heavier than the last as we make our way. Only the soft blue hue from the coming dawn streaming in from the hallway windows are our only lightsource.
That is, until we reach the second floor and the soft yellow light from Jude’s room spills out from under the closed door.
Inevergo in here. No, something’s up.
I glance back at Gwen who gives me a wary nod and comforting smile. I tighten my hand around the handle of the knife as I step forward.
My heart in my throat, I push down my fear. If he’s here…it means he’s looking for something. Maybe for me. Maybe for Elijah. Whatever it is—it’s not in good faith.
I have to be sure.
“Stay back.” I hold my hand out to Gwen, and thankfully, this time she listens to me.
My pulse is so loud it feels like whoever’s inside could probably hear it.
With a shaky fist, I twist the door handle and step through.
My heart hammers in my chest the moment I swing the door open. It bangs against the doorstop, making my whole body jump.
Gwen lets out a quiet shriek, quickly covering her hands over her mouth.
I give her a reassuring smile, before turning back to the room.
Looking around, it looks like nothings out of place. I walk into Jude’s bathroom, thankfully seeing nothing moved around in here too.
