I DIDN’T IMAGINE anything could be worse than stumbling upon a dead body in the middle of the night, but as I stare at the fireplace from my sprawled-out position on the couch, my conversations with Blackwood and Ash have started to cast the situation in an ominous new light. The only thing is, I can’t think of a single substantial reason someone would want to frame me for the murder of another student. Unless maybe someone had wanted to kill Stefano for a long time and I just happened to come along and get into a fight with Matteo, making me an easy target. Matteo. I reflexively touch my bruised eye.

Of course, there’s always the possibility that Ash’s in on whatever happened. He did tell me to take that hallway. And if he is, and I give him the personal information he wants, I’ll be making it so much worse. This is an absolute nightmare situation.

The door slams and I roll off the couch and into a standing position to find a fuming Layla marching into the room.

“Get ready,” she demands. “We’re apparently going to the parlor.” There is so much frustration in her voice that I know it’s the last thing she wants to do.

“I’m ready,” I say, watching her with caution. I’m well aware of the signs indicating someone is about to erupt. I’ve learned that lesson with Emily a few too many times.

“Well then, get your damn cloak if you want it,” she snarls.

“If you don’t want to go to the parlor, we don’t have to go. Though I’m guessing Ash suggested it,” I say in my most mellow voice.

Her eyes spark at his name. “Not want to go?” She laughs and it sounds sinister. “I hate that place. You know what else I hate right now?”

She points her delicate finger at me. “You, and my stupid brother. How dare you two drag me into this catastrophe! You know you could die, right? Or he could die? Maybe I’ll murder you both myself and save everyone the trouble of a trial!”

I stay perfectly silent and as still as possible.

“It’s bad enough I have a twin who begs and borrows trouble every time I turn around. But then I get saddled with a roommate who encourages him! I’m only one person; I can’t watch you both at once. And I don’t want to. Do you hear me?”

I nod with purpose.