Page 2 of Wicked Games

“Except for the fact that itdidhappen,” I said flatly. “And I still have to admit to being at fault for everything, when really, it’s that fucking asshole’s fault. Not mine.”

“Don’t let your pride get in the way, Carey.” A warning tone entered his voice. “If this all goes to trial, how do you think it’s going to go? Who do you think they’re going to believe? You or him?”

I swallowed thickly. “Me, hopefully. Everything I’ve said is true. I’m innocent.”

“It doesn’t matter if you’re innocent, and hope isn’t going to get you very far. What really matters is perception. You’re a teenager with a rather sketchy background. Through no fault of your own, of course. But when the jury looks at you, most of them will think you fit the profile perfectly.”

“Fit the profile?” I snickered and shook my head. “You’re making this sound like an episode of Criminal Minds or something.”

Tellier didn’t smile. “Carey, youarea criminal. At least you are in most people’s eyes right now. You’re in very serious trouble and you’re being offered a lifeline. I suggest you take it.”

I cast my eyes down at the pockmarked old table. I knew he didn’t believe me when I said I didn’t take anything on the night of Jamie Miller’s party. No one did. And how could I blame them for that, given the results of my blood test after I was arrested? They showed that I was clearly intoxicated when I took that car and crashed it into the other one.

To any outsider, I was obviously guilty as sin. They just didn’t understand the extenuating circumstances. They had no idea what led me to that desperate act. If they actually heard my story during a court trial, perhaps they’d feel sympathetic and let me off with a slap on the wrist.

Or perhaps Tellier was right on the money with the profiling comment. Maybe they’d take one look at me and my shitty background and automatically slide me into a box in their minds. The sort of box that contained offenders who weredefinitelyguilty.

I looked back up at Tellier. “Could I see the brochure again?”

The hard look on his face faded, and he cracked a sliver of a smile. “Sure.”

He reached into his briefcase and pulled out a glossy pamphlet. The cover featured a stunning panoramic view of Babylon Preparatory Academy, perched on the rugged cliffs of the northern California coast. The Gothic architecture of the main building was highlighted against the backdrop of crashing waves and misty coastal crags, and the school crest was subtly embossed in silver at the bottom.

I flicked to the first page.

Welcome to Babylon Preparatory Academy

Nestled amongst the untamed beauty of California’s stunning North Coast, Babylon stands as an architectural masterpiece amidst nature’s grandeur. Our historic institution is a beacon of excellence, providing an unparalleled educational experience that will enrich your child’s mind and prepare them for a future of leadership and success.

I rolled my eyes and flipped to the next page.

Discover the extraordinary at Babylon!

Our school provides a nurturing environment where students form lifelong friendships and networks. Our distinguished faculty is committed to cultivating critical thinking skills and a passion for knowledge, and our curriculum is filled with challenging courses, ensuring that all students are well-prepared for the world’s finest universities.

•Extracurricular activities: We have a multitude of offerings, designed to create and foster a harmony between mind, body, and spirit.

•Social scene: Fun events and spirited academic competitions foster a sense of pride and unity.

•Arts: We boast a vibrant arts community with students delving into creative pursuits inspired by the beautiful scenery surrounding our campus.

•Community: Students engage in beach clean-ups and marine biology studies, fostering a deep appreciation for the environment whilst helping the community beyond the gates.

•Luxury accommodation: Picturesque dormitories perch on the cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Each room is designed for comfort and inspiration.

Embark on your journey with Babylon Preparatory Academy today! For admission enquiries and application procedures, please visit our website or contact our admissions office.

God, what a load of bullshit.

These places always made it so easy to read between the lines. ‘Historic’ referred to long-standing generational wealth and the nepotism that came with it, giving the rich kids every possible opportunity while shutting out most regular Americans. ‘Pride and unity’ and ‘lifelong friendships’ were similarly-coded—it all referred to the impenetrable clubs that people from these elite schools formed within their ranks. Rich people helping each other stay rich, essentially.

So why were they suddenly offering to helpme?

“It really doesn’t make any sense.” I looked back up at the public defender. “Why would they offer me a scholarship? And why would they help with all my legal stuff? I’m a total nobody to them.”

Tellier smiled patiently. “We’ve already been through this, Carey.”

“Tell me again. Because it honestly made no sense to me the first time.” I slowly shook my head. “I’m not sure if it’ll ever make sense.”

---