The door crashes shut behind me, the sounds of the music downstairs now just a low hum thanks to the soundproofing.
I swipe the bourbon from the table at the side of the room,drop into my desk chair, and take a swig straight from the bottle, letting it warm my insides for a moment before the ice freezes back over.
My phone dings, and I heave a sigh, dragging my hand down my face before checking the screen. It’s the group chat, and for the first time tonight, a genuine smile tugs at my lips.
Carina: Cupcake just threw up on Nate’s favourite blanket.
Carina. I met her when she was scared and alone, desperate to disappear. Normally, I’d handle a case like hers and move on. But there was something about her that made me stay, made me want to help beyond my usual capacity. We’ve never been anything more than friends—my heart’s too tangled up with someone else to even consider it—but our friendship runs deeper than blood.
Tess: Nate has a favourite blanket?
Kai: You’re not really surprised, are you?
Tess is my half-sister. Same father, different mothers. We found out only a few months ago. Her boyfriend, Kai, is best friends with Nate—Carina’s fiancé.
Tess: Why are you texting me from your office?
Kai: Because if I come see you, you’ll start yapping.
Tess: Rude. But fair.
Tess: Actually, I have news!
Tess: Are youguys ready???
Nate: This is a sensitive time for me. I’m mourning a loss.
Kai:Just wash it?
Nate:It’s been violated!
Carina:What’s the news?
Tess:Drumroll please.
Nate:[Drum emojis]
Tess:Kai is the father!
My breath catches. Tess was raped a few months ago. Then, she found out she was pregnant. It’s been hard for her, wondering if her boyfriend is the dad or if the bastard that violated her was.
We’ve all been trying to help her heal. This news will certainly go a long way.
Of course, only Tess would announce it so casually.
Nate:PRINCESS!!! How could you keep this from me?
Carina:Kai literally told you…
Nate:But did you?
Carina:… Yes. We had a whole conversation about this last night.
Nate:Lies. You must have dreamt this.
Enzo:That’s great news Tess.
Maybe I’ll call her in a few days, when I’m less of a mess. For now, their chatter is the only thing giving me a temporary escape from the chaos in my head.
