Page 52 of Spiteful Lies

With her office door closed, in a low voice, I tell Harmon what happened, and she laughs, leaning back in her desk chair. “That’s the problem with being high and mighty,” she says, “It only works when everyone else is.” Her laughter morphs into concern. “Very brave of you and Charlotte to testify against the governor. Any backlash?”

I shake my head. “No. It seems I was far from being the only one. More women are lining up to testify, including women in respectable jobs, so he’s in real trouble now.”

“He deserves it all and a good kick in the butt.” She lowers her voice. “How is his son holding up?”

“I need to go talk to Justin. I feel bad. If anyone is dealing with backlash, it’s him. And none of this is his fault.”

She nods. “Then you’re still dating him?” She smirks when I shift in my seat. “That’s a yes. And what about the other boys?”

“I haven’t made a decision yet. They said I have ladies’ choice.” I pause as she looks at me blankly, so I continue. “I can date all of them and then make up my mind. It’s a thing here at Stonehaven.”

“New to me,” she replies, “and I thought I knew everything. So they’re okay with you dating them all at the same time?”

I nod.

“I think they may have made that up. Ladies’ choice wasn’t around when I was a student here.”

I stare at Harmon as if she’s making it up. “Why would they do that?”

“Maybe they see an advantage in you not choosing,” she replies, “I’ve noticed that Justin and Pierce seem less confrontational in class. They used to jab at each other verbally until I had to intervene. They actually smile at one another now. Unfortunately, I heard about Bryce and Mr. Shelton interrupting Rawlins’ spirit speech.”

“It goes deeper than me,” I reply softly. “Bryce doesn’t want to follow the family business.”

Harmon nods slowly. “Then he might need all of you to be the family he’s giving up. And Justin will definitely need a support system. What are you thinking?”

I answer honestly though it’s hard. “Would it be outrageous to ask them to share me and be faithful?”

“Aren’t you all doing that now?” she asks. “And aren’t you better off now than you were before? Justin has lost a scum of a father with your help.”

I continue her thought. “And Bryce will need people he can trust around him when he goes out on his own. Pierce is less of an asshole. Sorry,” I apologize, and she waves it off. “Wyatt will have a financial safety net. Plus, they want to invest in physical businesses, not speculate on stocks. And Justin really needs a friend.”

“And five will be better than one,” she replies. “Astrid, your life is no one else’s business. You’re a strong person, and you can’t be expected to live an ordinary life. If it works, keep doing it, and let the haters post their hate on social while you block it.”

I nod, taking every word in. “It’s a lot to think about, but I will. Thanks for not judging.”

“I have a busy life, so I don’t need to scrutinize anyone else’s. My door is always open, and next semester, I’ll expect to see your name on the honor roll.”

Chapter 35

Astrid

I put my head down to study, and when I look up again, it’s almost Christmas. The weeks flew by after midterms, and it’s almost winter break. I guess I didn’t notice time moving so quickly because nothing has really changed. Charlotte is still leaving Stonehaven. Howland is hanging on but not quite in remission. Leister’s court date is pending as the testimonies pile up. And the boys are still the boys.

Their competitiveness waxes and wanes, depending on how they’re reacting to life. One day, the holiday spirit is in them, and they’re horsing around in the dining hall, making lewd jokes with sound effects. Or they’re taking verbal swipes at one another as if they can’t wait for school to end forever. I continue to be Roni’s third wheel and sit far away from their mood swings.

The day before break, I walk along the path aimlessly and kick the fresh snow with the toe of my combat boot. I went home to get them so I could save money. My bank account is growing, but I won’t have enough money to pay Charlotte’s tuition if I spend it, even on the little things. I look up at the buildings on campus, wondering why the school can’t let her slide. Howland has donated enough money to cover her tuition for years. Maybe I should consider talking to Rawlins, but Charlotte has forbidden me. She reminds me that I’m not as eloquent with my words as I am with my fists.

“Deep in thought?” Justin startles me as he walks up behind me.

I grimace and then grin, hoping he didn’t notice the former.

“I was,” I reply, shrugging my shoulders. “I’ve got a lot going on. Any news of Ted?”

He looks off into the distance as if he’d rather talk about anything else other than his criminal father.

“Sorry, I asked,” I say weakly, bowing my head.

Justin takes my hand. “Come on, let’s go talk in my studio.” Justin holds on tight as he puts blinders on and marches toward Vogel Hall. I’m able to keep up as he keeps his head down, ignoring the inquisitive stares of the few students we pass. The campus is almost empty, but even today, Justin prefers to hole up in his studio, remaining out of sight. Fidgeting, I feel selfish not spending more time with him.

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