Page 89 of The Silent Note

“What matters is we have Slavno’s evidence. Even if it takes a lifetime, I’ll find it.”

“Don’t you think you’re being a bit impulsive?” Dutch points out.

Sol grins crookedly. “Typical Zane.”

I flip him off. And then I flip off Dutch because I believe in equal opportunities for all.

My twin picks a note on the E string which is labeled ‘C’ because he has Cadey’s name spelled out on his instrument. He plays a soft riff that reminds me of the love song he wrote when he was first thinking of getting married.

Finn turns a page in his book.

Sol unwraps a piece of gum and chews.

They’ve moved on from the matter so calmly, as if this isn’t life and death. I’m used to them dismissing me. After all, being the un-serious one in the group means no one ever really dwells on what I have to say. My words are usually to get a laugh. The point isn’t to be that deep.

But somehow, today… it irritates me.

What does Miss Jamieson want?

Finn asked me that in the car and I gave an answer I thought was right, but now I feel like I’m missing something. What more is there than to deliver Sloane’s murderer?

The bell chimes.

I climb to my feet.

“Where are you going?” Sol asks.

“I was only waiting around with you bozos because Grey has a class now.” I walk toward Finn and kick his feet down so I can pass. But I forgot my brother has the reflexes of a ninja. He bounces the ball of his foot on the ground and uses that momentum to raise his leg high enough to kick me in the back.

I jolt forward. “Prick.”

Finn’s eyes are still on his book.

I flip him off anyway.

“You should tell her Slavno’s dead,” Dutch says.

Sol points a finger at him. “Ditto.”

“Keeping secrets won’t end well for anybody,” Finn agrees.

“Says the guy who’s in love with a girl who sells them for a living,” I snap.

His fingers freeze in the book.

Dutch stops playing.

Sol looks up.

Mouth tightening into a thin line, Finn slaps his book shut, tucks it into his bag and walks out.

“Where are you going?” Dutch calls.

“Like he’s going to answer,” I grumble, already regretting my actions but not willing to show it.

Dutch gives me a scolding look.

I scowl back at him.