Page 34 of Harmony

Anything to calm the shaking in my limbs.

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Twelve

Monday morning came much too soon.

Thankfully, after the party on Friday, Tiffany left me alone. I hid out in my room for the rest of the weekend, trying to ease the weight on my chest. I wish I could call Willow and tell her everything that happened, but I know it’s too risky. I haven’t spoken to her since the phone call a couple of weeks ago. Now that I know she’s coming back today, my nerves are through the roof.

It’s going to suck to see her and not be able to be there for her. On the other hand, it will ease some of my anxiety being able to see her and know she’s okay.

It’s a double-edged sword I’m destined to die on.

As soon as I enter the gym, I know something is going on. Everyone is already here and dressed.

“I’m sorry. Did I miss something?” I ask hesitantly.

“Nope. Go get changed,” Tiffany says.

I hustle into the locker room, changing quickly before making my way back out to the gym. When I go to sit, Tiffany shakes her head, holding her hand out to me.

I place mine in hers as she pulls me into the middle of the circle.

“We have some questions for you,” she starts, making me stiffen.

“Okay.”

“What happened Friday night?”

Dread fills in my stomach. Which part? The part where I went against all my morals and sold drugs? Where I lied to Nate’s face and ruined any chance of him ever forgiving me? Or maybe when I told him I was a fucking hooker?

“We went to a party and had fun.”

“What happened at the party?”

I narrow my eyes. “If you have something to say, spit it out. As far as I’m aware, dancing and some drinking happened.”

She holds my eyes, staring me down. After a moment, she smiles.

“Nothing happened. That’s right. One more thing. What did Nate want with you?”

My stomach drops. Of course she knew Nate cornered me.

“He wanted to threaten me. Told me Willow is going to be back at school today. Said if I even breathe the same air as his precious Willow that he would make me regret it. With the way he has had the rest of the student body tormenting me, I would say there’s nothing much he can do to me that he hasn’t already.”

She laughs. “Wow. He really does have a hard-on for that girl. I heard they were both fucking her at one point. Her mom even caught her hanging all over Nate while Rocky stood by and glared daggers at them.”

I bite my cheek to keep from lashing out. I want to tell them they are fucking idiots and defend her, but I can’t. I have never in my life had to use such a level of self-control as I do now.

“I wouldn’t know. Willow was never a real friend. She kept me at arm’s length and only used me for rides, a place to stay, and even money on an occasion or two.”

Tiffany gives me an evil smirk. “Well then, we have the perfect initiation for you. Today we met early to vote and the girls have decided you can be trusted. You are a permanent member, or you will be once you complete your initiation task.”

My stomach feels like it’s filled with lead. Fuck. I just told them Willow was coming back.

My initial reaction is proven right as Tiffany continues, “I want you to confront Willow. Tell her exactly how you feel about her and her new love triangle. Give it to her good because we are going to be watching.”

I want to argue, but I don’t. Willow will know this is all part of the plan. Right?

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