Page 37 of Twisted Ties

“Ahhh, we did.”

“You said if I did this, you’d leave me alone. That you’d forgive the indiscretion.”

I take a step nearer. “I changed my mind.”

“You … you can’t do that.”

I spin the knife through the air, catching it by the hilt. “Can’t I? You see, you betrayed my little rabbit. You handed her to the butcher to be slaughtered. And that … that doesn’t sit right with me.”

“Please, I didn’t–”

“You did. And now you will pay for it.” I close the distance between us, loving the way he squeals and pleads, screams and moans. Like music to my ears.

I’m no different from that spider. No different from a wolf. Killing’s in my nature because killing is nature.

He harmed my little rabbit and so I harmed him. Simple really. Not like those rules my mom was always trying to force me to obey.

When I’m done with him, I wipe the blade of the knife on that mattress and hold it in my palm.

“That one was for you, little rabbit,” I whisper. “All for you.”

I glance down at the body.

Should I send her his heart in a box?

Too much?

Probably.

I need to find some other way to tell her.

13

Tristan

I knowthe moment she’s back in the academy, can feel it in my gut.

I’d hoped this stupid thing with Azlan would keep her away. That apart from the family reunions – that, face it, are never going to happen – I’d never have to see her again. She’d disappear off to far-flung parts of the country, clinging to Azlan’s side, as he hunts down the authorities’ enemies. Perhaps she’d even get herself killed.

But no, she’s back.

If I’m in luck, to pick up her stuff and go. If I’m in luck, I won’t even see her.

Luck seems to have fucked me over these last few weeks, because I’m on the path with Spencer, Summer and the others when I feel hereven closer.

I peer over my shoulder and meet her eye. Is it my imagination or does she look different? Taller, stronger, healthier. Her caramel eyes shine with determination and she refuses to look away from my gaze. Spencer lifts his head and spies her too.

“Pig Girl,” Spencer says, rolling his eyes with exaggeration, “I thought we finally got rid of you.”

“I guess you’re not that lucky. Because I’m here.”

“To collect your things, right?” Summer says with a smile. “Because you’re leaving. Surely, York has discovered what a hopeless case you are by now and is kicking you out.”

“No, sorry to disappoint you, Summer, but I’m definitely not leaving.”

“Where’s the pig?” Spencer makes a show of looking around. “Did someone finally turn him into a ham sandwich?”

The others chuckle and Spencer smirks at her