“No.” He sighed and palmed his forehead. “We’re going to come back tomorrow to ensure everything is spick and span so Principal Hill doesn’t lose her shit Monday morning.”
Principal Hill was part of the initial group who started this tradition decades ago. She knew Initiation Night could get rowdy and would definitely cut Darla some slack if certain things weren’t in their rightful place.
“Oh, by the way.” Cade clicked his tongue. “I shattered a glass globe in Room 208 on the third floor.”
“Bro,” Shaun said exasperatedly. “You had two jobs. To win the girl and not break shit on campus.”
“You know said girl can hear you, right?” I said with dry amusement.
“Since your ears seem to be in perfect working condition, why didn’t you answer my question earlier?” Shaun hedged. “You know, the one where I asked if you two were back together.”
Cade and I both remained silent.
Shaun muttered under his breath, “Stubborn idiots. After all the effort I put in.”
No other words were exchanged as we reached the front doors. Shaun leaned against the archway for support and yanked out keys from his pocket. “Darla gave them to me so I could come back for you both.”
I thought back to what Shaun said in the crypt.
I had no choice but to go see Darla if I wanted my phone back. However, I’d take Shaun’s advice and try talking to her. One last time. I would put my pride aside for the girl who’d been like my sister.
We both deserved that, right?
And maybe this time she’d finally tell me what went wrong between us.
After being trapped for hours, we stepped out of St. Victoria and we’re greeted by another chorus of rain, lighting, and thunder. Shaun locked the doors and then we crossed the courtyard, wet grass wilting beneath our shoes.
Our plan was to take Shaun to the hospital. I’d drive his car while Cade trailed behind in his motorcycle, which he actually parked near the woods on campus.
“I’m sorry again, Shaun,” I said sheepishly. “I really didn’t mean to hit you.”
“It’s okay, Ella.” He attempted a wink, but in his state, itresembled a grimace. “I kind of deserved it, and I’m not mad at all. Plus, it makes for a funny story. I’ll never forget the way you both screamed and ran away like chickens. Totally worth it.”
While he cackled, Cade and I glared at him.
Moments later, we arrived at the front gates of the school.
And were welcomed by a flurry of red-blue lights and police sirens. A group of cops stared at us with menacing expressions. “Put your hands up! You’re under arrest for trespassing on private property.”
Cade cursed under his breath, clutching onto an injured Shaun.
The next few minutes felt like an out-of-body experience. We were forced to our knees, slapped with handcuffs, and shoved into the back of a squad car in spite of our protests. One of the cops kicked my hurt ankle and I growled in pain. Cade thrashed and threatened the cop, digging us deeper into this mess.
As we drove off, an odd sensation of being watched had me swivelling my head towards the school.
Amongst the shadowed trees, two figures stood side by side.
The same masked man who pushed me down the stairs in Balthazar Building, Guy Fawkes mask covering his face.
And next to him?
A familiar girl.
Pixie blond hair. Blue eyes. Red Riding Hood costume.
Callie.
C H A P T E R2 7
