Page 46 of Terror Tuesday

Ryan

Beta’s denying it, but I heard one of their guys had to be sedated. Malik said something may be up. Could be another PR nightmare if they talk.

Henry

So? One of the Iotas puked in room three, and no one even noticed lol

Ryan

Can we not joke right now? I think at least one Omega didn’t make it back.

Aiden

We’ll handle it. We always do.

Henry

Olivia? You good? Did you make it out?

I stare at the blinking cursor for a long time. Then mute the thread and swipe it away.

Another buzz.

This one’s fromMom.

Mom

Hope your event went well, sweetheart! You always shine. Don’t forget, brunch with the chancellor’s family is this weekend. Your father expects you to wear the pink Chanel (and, yes, Alec is cute). Love you!

ThenDad, as if they’re synced.

Dad

Heard there were some “rumors” at last night’s party. You’re not involved, right? Keep your head down, my girl. Your future depends on it.

My hand shakes. I don’t know if it’s rage or grief. Maybe both.

I’m choking on silence.

That’s when the next notification comes through. No family crest. No demands. Just a name that reads like a lifeline.

Elliot

Thinking about the project. And you. Mostly the project. (But also definitely you.) Let me know if you want to meet up and pretend to be normal. I can fake it. I’ve practiced.

A smile breaks out across my lips before I can stop it.

I hate that he makes me feel like a person again.

thirteen

It’s too soon.And it’s risky. But mainly…

It’s so very fuckingwrong.

One finger delves into my pocket to monitor the assignment that’s burning a hole in it. My fingers close around the scroll, its parchment stiff with dried blood and salt. The president’s seal faintly smells of steaming wax. No house number symbol embedded anywhere…

Why me?