Page 57 of Flame

It’s easier than ever to sense the lie in his words. I’ve known him long enough to catch that telltale dip in his inflection. A denial springs to my lips just as another van comes into view.

He speeds up until we’re rapidly approaching it, able to see the white stickers plastered on the rear window—a small sticker family, down to a little dog.

“Come home,” Branden warns, a dangerous note in his voice. “I mean it, Hannah.”

He breaks into the next lane, speeding even more, most likely to cut the other van off.

“Fine,” I whisper. “I’ll come with you.”

“Good.” The vehicle gradually slows to a normal speed, and he signals to take the next exit. “This is the best way for everyone,” he says. “You’ve made the right choice.”

But my hand is still resting over my pocket, sensing Faith’s hair clip beneath.

What choice had she made when it came to him?

And did she pay the ultimate price?