Fuck, what did I get myself into? The things you do for love.
I glance back at the door. Okay, it’s now or never. I’ll sling Tom over my shoulder if I have to.
Before I can make my move, the doors beside me slam open.
Everyone stops talking.
They turn.
Heels on the wooden floorboards. It’s not even that loud, but the clicks sound dramatic in the silence.
Here they are.
Of course my eyes find Jay first; he’s tall. More than that, it’s how he presents himself, sleek copper hair slicked back perfectly, not a strand out of place. His hazel eyes scan the room.
I think he’s checking not only who’s here, but how they’re here. If anyone’s different. If anyone’s weak or hiding something.
His whole energy reminds me of my military days. Projecting authority was something drilled into me aggressively back then. With Jay, it’s simply who he is.
Beside him must be Cheryl.
She’s an elegant woman, auburn hair pinned up, pearl earrings, wearing an emerald-green dress. She looks soft to me, like a mother figure. A counterweight to Jay’s dominance, or at least the role she plays.
Because I remember everything Stella said about this family, and it shows.
Jay is exactly what he looks like, a predator.
But Cheryl? She could be dangerous in a different way.
Jay takes a step toward Tom, his strong, muscled hand landing on Tom’s smaller shoulder.
“There he is,” he says. “Our lost little brother.”
My shoulders tense at the way he speaks to Tom, dripping with disdain. Tom stands rooted to the floorboards, eyes searching for me.
Pineapple cookie. Pineapple cookie.
Say the words, Sapphire. Or even give me a nod and I’ll get you out.
Nothing leaves Tom’s lips.
Meanwhile, Jay has turned his gaze on me.
“Sorry,” he says, a cynical laugh, a scoff. “Who are you?”
This is the moment where I need to give it everything, or Jay will eat me alive. That said, manipulators aren’t exactly new to me. I know a few tricks about how to play this game.
“Jay.” I call him by name deliberately. “I’m Doctor Yoshiro Aoki. I’ve been guiding Tom during his time in Arcadia.”
I step forward. I don’t extend my hand. That’s his move to make.
I wait.
He leaves me hanging. His eyes snap back to Tom.
“WHAT’S WRONG WITH YOU!?”
“Jay, please, listen…” Tom tries. I watch him crumble in front of his big brother.
