Page 146 of XO Karma

Panic consumes me. “What could you possibly need to tell me that’s more important than us going to the station to get Aster out of whatever this mess is?”

“There’s DNA evidence that suggests Aster was involved in Nolan’s death.” My eyes find his. Every single molecule of air in the room is gone in an instant.

“That must be a mistake,” I say, but my voice lacks conviction.

“It’s not. DNA from Aster was found on Nolan’s head.”

“And you’re sure it’s Aster’s?” It would surprise me if his DNA was in the system given how careful he is. I rack my mind for the memories of the night before I found the head. “Aster and Nolan got in a fight the night before he died. I’m sure that’s where it came from.”

“How do you know that?”

“Because I was there when it happened.”

His jaw tenses. “And neither of you thought that information was important to share with us when his head was discovered or when the photos of the decapitated body from the Kodak Killer were received?”

“It wasn’t relevant,” I argue weakly.

“Considering Aster’s now at the center of a murder investigation, it seems pretty relevant.” He crosses his arms over his chest. “What was the fight about?”

I sway on my heels. “Nolan attacked me.”

“Nolan attacked you?” he asks, and I nod. “Then he shows up dead?”

“Looks that way.”

“Well, I’d say that gives Aster a pretty strong motive.” Shit. Did I make their case stronger? “Either way, it’s not just the DNA. There’s more evidence. A lot more.”

“Like what?” I scoff.

“I’m sorry, but I can’t tell you.”

“Why the hell not?”

“The investigation is ongoing and…” His voice trails off.

“And you don’t trust me.” I struggle to keep the hurt out of my tone.

“It’s just… you’ve been a bit cynical of the police since Vi died. And don’t you think it’s possible Aster’s clouded your judgement a bit?”

I shake my head. “That’s not fair.”

“Please.” He steps towards me, and I retreat. “I need you to trust me on this. Seeing him is a bad idea.”

Do I trust Jackson? I think so. We’ve been friends for years. He helped me through Violet’s death and has always been there for me… but why is he keeping things from me? Then again, I suppose I haven’t been forthcoming about my alter ego either.

“This is bullshit!” I say, concluding there’s only one thing that will ease my swirling mind. “I want to see him.”

“You need to be rational.” His tone is patronizing, pissing me right off.

“Jax, please.” Turns out I’m not above begging. “I need to see him.”

“Lily…” He places a hand on my shoulder. “Are you not understanding?”

“What, Jax?” My brows furrow, and I shove him off. “Stop patronizing me.”

“Nolan’s body was a Kodak kill. So if Aster killed Nolan, that would make Aster…” He waves a hand, trying to rush me along as my mind hazes.

“A copycat killer?” I say in disbelief at his insinuation.