Page 83 of Barinov

When I step inside of Bella’s room, she’s not here. For a moment, I just stand frozen. My sister’s signature cherry and vanilla scent hitting me like a gut punch sending memories of our life in New York running through my mind.

Then I notice something on Bella’s pillow. Claire’s letter.

I sit down on the edge of her bed and unfold it, my eyes scanning the words. Every line feels like someone dragging a blade across old wounds.

It’s because of me his obsession didn’t die with your mother.

“God, Claire. None of this was your fault,” I whisper into the air.

Play his game, but never let him win.

I scoff. “Yeah that’s working great for me so far.”

When he starts to slip, and he will, look him in the eyes and remind him who he is. Your brother. Your family.

“Fuck, Claire. I’m so sorry.” A tear slides down my cheek. I catch it with a shaky finger before it blurs the ink.

As I close the letter, I notices Bella’s handwriting on the back. I open it back up and flip it over.

“What the hell?” I mumble as I begin to read.

IZZY CHEAT SHEET

Roses were her favorite flower.

She liked wine. Gross wine that is bitter as shit. CHOKE IT DOWN!

He took her to Florence after making the Revs. (BIG FUCKING DEAL SO QUIT FORGETTING!)

Ivan is Krolek’s brother and Luca’s cousin.

Luca is allergic to peanuts… go find some!

He will fold if you cry so weaponize that shit!

Zeke was taken so he could gain more access to you, but then he started to fall for him? IDK… ask Zeke more about this one!

Apparently she really liked the Spice Girls.

Don’t forget to find Mama’s necklace!

They met when they were 6.

Luca was jealous of Daddy… is that whay he killed him? FIND OUT!

She only liked strawberry milkshakes.

You IZZY hated thunderstorms! -ISABELLA MARIE BLACKWOOD

#11 yes that’s why he killed him. It’s my fault

“Zeke?” Bella says, standing in the doorway wrapped in a towel.

I hold up the list. “Bells, what is this?”

“Seriously, that’s what you’re worried about right now?” she barks, yanking the letter out of my grip. “You’ve been ghosting me for days.”

“I haven’t been ghosting you.”