“Are the files saved somewhere?”

I shook my head. “It was handwritten.”

“Handwritten?” She narrowed her eyes.

“My private thoughts… It was the only way to keep them out of my Life Stream…. It had things I overheard when my parents entertained—”

She clamped her hand over my mouth. “Never mind. Don’t say anymore.” Pressing her forehead against mine, she whispered, “Knowledge is the real currency. Any info you have on someone, keep it for yourself. Don’t tell even me. The walls are listening.”

I nodded.

“We should call the police,” she said loudly.

“Do we have to?” I asked. After what Crystal just said, I didn’t really want to publicize the existence of my Book of Secrets. Having to explain why I wasn’t in my room and reveal my new ability to go off-grid could only get me into more trouble with my parents. “I’ve been through so much tonight, and only my journal is missing…”

“It’s your decision,” Crystal said.

“Let’s clean up and pretend this night never happened. I can’t deal.” All I wanted was to crawl under my covers and hide.

“Okay. Whatever you want. And then let’s get you into a hot bath. It’ll make you feel better.”

Silently, she helped me reset the room. When it was reinstated to its former neatness, she filled the tub.

“Do you want me to stay with you?” she asked before I got in the tub.

I shook my head. “That’s okay. I need some time alone.”

With a sad smile, she squeezed my hand and headed for the door. Before she left, she reached into my pocket, grabbing the map and pointing to an intersection. Holding up eight fingers, she mouthed, “Breakfast. There’s someone I want you to meet.”

“Breakfast,” I mouthed back.

“See you tomorrow, love. I’m going to go get Bernard. He’ll be stationed outside your door so you’ll be safe. Promise. All you need to do is try to get some sleep.”

“Thank you. Goodnight, Crystal.” With a tiny wave, I closed the door behind her. As soon as the deadbolt slid into place, I sank to the floor, my head spinning.

Who would want my Book of Secrets? And who does Crystal want me to meet?

Setting down my pen, I rest my head against the chaise, Adam’s betrayal coursing through me like it happened yesterday. He had his reasons… It wasn’t easy, our life. Nothing was black and white. But even knowing what I know now, I can’t deny that night changed him for me. Even if he’d lived, we would never have been the same… I never would have fully trusted him.

Crystal, on the other hand, I instantly saw as a friend. She still is.

That much I know is true.

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Four

January 3, 20X6, Keystone