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“Kota’s not my sister and that’s not why I hate Guy,” I add after a long silence from my friend. It doesn’t surprise me he didn’t disagree with my first statement.

“He is pretty hateable.”

“Very.”

At least he has a strategy, something I could use. I don’t see why I can’t borrow his. I’ve already borrowed his girlfriend.

As discreetly as I can, I scan the Prey for Bracelet. Thankfully, he’s in the middle of the Prey. Whether he wears the blindfold or not will determine how easy this next part will be. He’s got one but that doesn’t guarantee he’ll put it on.

I can’t help but seek out Kota, too. She’s closer to my end of the line, which would give me the advantage if I was going for her. One hand gripping a blindfold, she’s got the other in her hair, undoubtedly maiming that scalp of hers as she studies the trees in front of her.

My own hands become fists. Why is she always fucking hurting herself?

About to turn around, I spot another familiar blonde, who I didn’t know was here until this very second.

“Remember, the seven minutes start after the second horn!”

I quickly face the water again. Shit. I still don’t have a plan. I don’t even know where Bracelet will be. Or if he’ll be blindfolded. Or alone.

I’d rather try my chances with Kota. But my dad didn’t send me here for her. I already failed him once. I can’t do it again.

“How long between horns?”

Dex chuckles. “That’s the thing. They don’t tell us. It’s part of the excitement.”

“First horn!”

As the horn blows, my limbs fill with jittery anticipation.

I check behind me again to watch the Prey take off into the woods.

Bracelet darts between the trees closest to him, almost immediately disappearing from view.

Just past the tree line, Kota veers right.

Thankfully, Lisann heads in the opposite direction.

A brief glance over at Guy proves I’m not the only one taking notes. He’s just more obvious about it.

Now comes the wait.

Every Hunter is practically bouncing as the minutes tick by.

One.

Two.

Three.

Fuck. This is excruciating.

Three and a half minutes.

I swear to fucking God time’s never felt slower.

Four minutes.

“The pursuit is on!”