Page 63 of Perfect on Paper

“Right. Well, logically, the evidence does point to me.”

“I’m only going to ask you one more time. Did. You. Do. It?”

“Before I answer, I’d like to clarify real quick, why do you feel the need to ask that question at all?”

“What do you mean?”

“Youdoknow Pincers don’t actually exist?”

Was that amusement in his voice? “Brougham, I amthe only one awake in this freaking house, and—”

“Come on, Phillips, you told me you had a strong stomach for horror.”

“I’m going to kill you. I’m going to get in my car, find a hacksaw, and break your window to—”

“Calm down, calm down,” he said. “It was me, I promise. There aren’t any Pincers. I thought you’d notice while I was there.”

“You’renot funny, Brougham.”

“Incorrect. I’m heaps funny.”

“I’m hanging up now.”

“Don’t forget to close your curtains. The Pincers can see auras in the dark, remember?”

I rolled my eyes, then hopped up and did what he said. Just in case. “I hate you.”

“I don’t think you do.”

I went to retort, but then remembered something I’d forgotten in my panic. “Hey, um. Is everything okay over there, before I go?”

“Oh.” His voice dropped to a whisper. “Yeah, it’s fine. Dad’s gone out and Mum’s passed out on the couch.”

“Is she okay?”

“Yeah, she sleeps there sometimes. Usually when—” He broke off, but my mind filled in the blanks for him.When she’s been drinking.“Anyway, no worries. Thanks for asking. Send me a text if anything tries to eat you.”

“Likewise. But I just want a text with their address. So I can send a thank-you card.”

“Rude. ’Night, Phillips.”

“’Night, Alexander.”

Character Analysis:

Alexander Brougham

Is complicated.

FOURTEEN

Spotify gave me recommendations after you put that song on in the car. I’m learning about your culture.

HAHA ok I’m worried. What did spotify suggest?

Umm so far we’ve had run to paradise, bow river, the boys light up, khe sanh, the horses…

THE HORSES!!! Why didn’t I show you the horses? That’s the REAL national anthem

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