Asch has figured out how to derail the smaller arguments, while River is quick to leap to my defense.
Fucking perfect, all three of them.
It’s too bad they ended up with me, huh.
I look at the corner of the dining room I’ve been avoiding, where a small red drip makes its way down the wall and to the fancy hardwood floor.
A real leak, that my brain has turned red?
Or a completely innocent white wall?
It would be nice to know.
At least when I’m cutting up Allers, I’ll know the blood is real.
“I’m ordering food,” Asch announces. “If anyone has allergies, tell me now.”
That seems to be the end of the meeting. Everybody gets up to disperse, moving to the much more comfortable living room.
Mel and I are the only ones who stay in the dining room.
“Why did you really come?” I ask her softly. “You hate this kind of shit.”
Mel bites her bottom lip. “I know I don’t always act like it, but Iampart of this family, Pandora.” Her voice is resigned rather than sharp, and she shrugs. “You need help.”
The hair on the back of my neck rises.
What does she know?
What has she seen?
“I don’t,” I hiss. “I’m fine. Did somebody tell you something?DidPapa?”
The air around Mel turns dark, leaving her starkly pale in contrast.
She shakes her head. “Papa doesn’t talk to me. But I heard the twins arguing. Uncle Slayer said you ignored his calls. Everyone’s worried, and you won’t talk to any of us. I know why you won’t talk to me, but…” She closes her eyes briefly, and tears cling to her lashes when she opens them again. “I’m still your sister, Pandora. I want to help you.”
I should say something reassuring.
I could get up and hug her, even though we rarely touch.
I could thank her for caring.
I could tell her the truth.
But all that comes out of my mouth is, “It’s none of your business.”
Mel flinches like I just slapped her. “Okay.” She fumbles with the glass of water in front of her and takes a sip, and I see the way she blinks several times.
Snitches get murder.
She wanted to snitch on me.
What would her throat look like, all pale white with a single line of red across it?
Fuck.
Fuck, I don’t want to see that.
