If he’s trying to look suspicious, then he’s totally exceeding. What I don’t get, though, is why he’s acting sketchy.

Hunter stares at Jax for an unnerving amount of time while Jax focuses on anything but him.

Finally, Hunter gives up and enters the room. “Whatever. Keep your secret for now.”

Jax lets out a relieved sigh then elevates his gaze to Hunter. “So, whose party is it? I’m guessing someone interesting if you’re telling us about it.”

“It’s Brody.” Hunter scratches his wrist. “He invited basically everyone at our school, including rival families.”

A crease forms between Jax’s brow. “That’s fucking weird. Why would he do that?”

“I’m not sure.” Hunter chews on his bottom lip. “However, Zay thinks it might have something to do with this game.” He flicks a glance at me. “And if that’s the case, then that could mean he was behind the bridge incident with you, princess.”

“But I don’t even know a Brody,” I point out.

“I know. But he knows us and he’s very good at gathering intel, which means he probably found out you were hanging out with us the moment Zay made that scene in the classroom with you,” Hunter replies with a heavy sigh. “We really do need to take you around and show you all the people that are part of the families.” He steps toward me. “If it is Brody that pushed you off the bridge, this party could be the perfect opportunity for you to try confirm that.” Just like Jax did moments ago, you know, right before he kissed me, Hunter sweeps a strand of my hair from out of my face and tucks it behind my ear. “If you don’t feel comfortable going, though, we won’t force you.”

“No, I can handle it,” I assure him. “I want to find out who did this to me and make them pay.”

He offers me a smile, seeming kind of proud. I smile back, pretending I’m exactly who he’s proud of. But the truth is, I’m kind of scared. And worried. And a hell of a lot confused. So, you know, just a normal day in the life of Ravenlee.

Le sigh. Why does life have to be so complicated?

And then, to add to the complication, Hunter hands me his phone. “A little off the subject, but I entered your aunt’s phone number into the dial pad already, so you can just hit dial. Or if you want, you can just text her.”

“I should probably call her.” I take the phone from him then let my finger hover over the dial button. I don’t push it, though. “I’m not really sure what I should say to her,” I admit. “I mean, I’m sure she’s not going to give a shit if I spend the night somewhere, but she might be a little weird about it if I’m staying the night with three guys.”

“Just tell her you’re spending the night at Low’s house, then,” Hunter suggests. “Low can cover for you if you need her to.”