Each time I close my eyes and fall back under, this insomnia continues to eat at me. By the fourth time I open my eyes, I give up altogether.
Moving to sit up, the bed creaks. Holding my breath, I look toward Jinx and wonder if he sleeps as light as some of these other guys.
He continues snoring away, undisturbed.
I’m adding another reason to my list of why he’s the absolute worst at keeping me safe.
Standing, I shuffle through the darkness. Fetching a hoodie and shoving my feet into my sneakers, I slip out of the room.
The clubhouse is quiet, dead to the world. I’m jealous of all the people who are tucked in bed, sleeping with ease.
Reaching the bar, I glance over the few souls who have to be awake to keep watch. They look as tired as I do.
The scent of coffee grounds drifts behind the bar, and I’m tempted to follow along to fill myself a cup. Unfortunately, I don’t need fuel to keep me up. I need something that’ll knock me out.
Ghost sits in the corner, the screen of his laptop glowing as he continuously tries to get into Crimson Road’s system. Ever since he returned, he’s been set on getting back to work.
From the blonde hair hanging off the edge of the seat across him, I’m impressed by Eloise’s dedication to remaining by his side.
Keeping silent, I move on, heading toward my destination. The less attention I bring my way, the better. Though I’m not entirely sure I should be concerned.
Besides Judge and Jinx, would anyone try to stop me from leaving? The awful voice in the back of my head that likes to taunt me promises me that they won’t.
Warden sits at the bar, his phone in his hand. As he stares at the screen, his face is pinched. Unfortunately, on the opposite side of him is exactly what I’ve come to fetch.
Feeling too exhausted to let my mood sour because of my thoughts, I’m forced to approach.
His eyes lift at my arrival, and his brows furrow before the device buzzes. He drops his gaze before scowling. Flipping the phone upside down, it thumps hard against the bar.
Seems I’m not the only one having a rough night.
“Don’t ask for a drink.” Muttering the words, I try to add a little humor to them.
He looks too miserable to even notice. His shoulder slumps before his spine follows.
Pursing my lips, I realize that if I stand here waiting for him to leave, it won’t happen. I have more of a chance watching him slowly fall over the bar, melting into it.
I don’t typically deal with sad guys. Should I ask him if he’s okay? Talking usually helps, I think. Though it also makes people feel worse. I can’t handle worse, right now.
Maybe I can help him out a little.
“You… uh, want to go look at the stars?”
He cocks a brow at me, confused.
“I need a smoke and some fresh air. If I go outside on my own, I’ll get chewed out. Jinx is asleep, and you’re one of the better ones.” Muttering the words, I avoid his eyes when I notice the surprise flicker across his face.
This is why I don’t try to be nice.
Kneeling down, I move around bottles until I reach my stash. Another secret I keep from my sister.
“Either way, I’m leaving.” Popping back up, I feel his eyes on my hands. “I’ll even let you take a hit.”
He’s on his feet without a second passing. Judge may have said no drinking, but he never mentioned anything about smoking specific things.
We pop out of the clubhouse and put enough distance between us and the building without drawing attention. Flopping down in the grass, I use the moonlight to prepare what will soon be my savior.
“Judge and Ripper are going to kick your ass if they find out you have that.” He leans back and sighs. “Stubborn old dudes.”
