I want to ask her how she knows. It's not like I'm in the habit of doing that type of thing with every girl I fuck. On the contrary. Most chick taking my cock are gone the next day. I don’t feel the need to learn anything about them.

But I do like to control my environment. I like to understand what makes people around me tick. It tells me what to expect of them.

I surprised even myself when I got a background check done on Claire, so how did Lisa know I would?

"She's broke," I say, finally. "And clearly, she liked Vivi. So I'm sure she'd like a job if you offered it. But she's at Rothford, so she might not be available when you need her."

My sister nods. "Did you ask for her phone number?"

"No." I wasn't about to come on to her with Octavia as a witness.

"Oh well. Do you know where we might run into her, then?"

"Library, bookstore, movie theater, yoga studio," I list. "But she'll likely join the school's, so you can't just drop by. Or I can mention it to her when I bump into her tomorrow."

My sister smirks. "Please do. I look forward to meeting whoever can thaw the two coldest Kellers in this house."

"Like I'm anywhere as cold as my father," I retort with a snort.

Though there's no arguing that, usually, Octavia's icy as fuck to young, pretty girls too busy batting their eyelashes at us to pay her any mind.

"Your dad's indifferent, not cold," Lisa retorts, leaning in eagerly. "So, what's the plan? You gonna ask her out?"

"I would," I assure her. "If it wasn't for one little problem."

"Oh?"

"She has a boyfriend."

"Fuck. Sorry." My sister pouts.

I tilt my head. "Whatever for?"

"Well, you clearly have a crush on the girl. You must be disappointed."

I look at her. Six years and ten months. That's how long she’s lived with us. I don't technically live here, staying at the Vesper House during the academic year, but I make a point of coming every week, as often as possible, to hang out with her and Octavia.

She knew I'd get Claire’s information. She guessed I'd planned to see her again. And she really thinks I'll let such an inconsequential obstacle stop me?

I smile. "I don't see a ring on it."

And even if I did, it's not all that hard to remove a tiny little piece of jewelry. With the right incentives.

3. Claire

3

CLAIRE

I roll my eyes at the text exchange so far tonight.

Noah: How much????

Me: 150. I bought everything I needed for school, and had some money to spare to get myself a new charger and phone case, too.