Page 57 of Smoke the Enemy

After a few minutes, Steffan pulls away. “Come on. I’ll show you how to develop film. Let’s see what Soren has on here.”

The night of The Illicit Lovers Gala.My cheeks flush, and Steffan gives me a knowing grin. “Well now I’m really glad I volunteered to be of service.”

I’d never been inside a dark room, and it’s definitely dark. I can’t even see my hands in front of me. Steffan explains we can’t expose the film to light. He goes about explaining the process, but I can’t see anything, so I pretend to understand. I make a few noises of approval so he knows I’m at least listening. After a few minutes, he turns on a red light.

“Now the fun can begin.”

The chemicals he dumps into the containers burn my nose. Then I slowly watch the process and relax. Embracing the slow technique and peacefulness of it all. It’s soothing being in here alone, the quiet. I understand why Soren must love this. My mind begins to wonder as I try to sift through the memories. Who all was at the gala? It had to have been someone there. I don’t recall seeing Alex. But what motive would he have to kill Bailee Van Duren and members of Lee Conrad’s family? This was all people connected to Lee. Would Bryce murder his own sister?

“Well, well, well…” Steffan taunts.

I stare down and watch in fascination. It’s almost like magic how the image slowly appears on the paper floating in the tub. “You two were busy before I got there.” Steffan eases behind me. “While the cat’s away, the mouse will play.”

“You’re so cheesy sometimes.” I giggle as his nose tickles my neck. There’s a knock at the door, so we ease out of the dark room to prevent the light from getting in and damaging Soren’s photos.

“We think we have a lead.” Succo tells us. “Alex got a call. He didn’t say much, just left and took a few of the guys with him. He told everyone you were busy.” He cuts his eyes to me and then back to Steffan.

“He did, did he?” Rage radiates off Steffan.

“Brother, listen to me. I know I’m still new and we don’t share the history you have with Lee, and I’m not blood like Soren, but I have the best intentions. I am loyal toyou.Most of the brothers, however, are loyal to whomever is the president. Their loyalty is to the Brotherhood. There are whispers that your attention is divided and you’re losing control.”

Steffan’s face drops. He gives a solemn nod. “And they’re not wrong. I’m spiraling.Fuck.It’s a lot. The expectations. The burden of dealing with frat shit, plus The Illicit breathing down my neck and my prick of a father. Van Doren. My best friend,” he gestures toward the mansion, “found his girlfriend’s body. I don’t even know how to be there for him. I’m a fucking shitty friend and president.”

He begins to pace as he tugs at the root of his hair. “My brother is gone,again.Van Doren is in the wind. Dead bodies dropping left and right, and it’s all people who are members or connected to members of the Brotherhood. I’ve failed The Illicit twice on delivering Van Doren. My Delta Pi Theta brothers don’t trust me as a fit leader.”

“Alex,” I say. “Alex! He is creating chaos to discredit you. Think about it. He couldn’t just show up and demand their loyalty, not after they’ve known you so long. And he’s the one who got the tip on Soren?”

Steffan turns to Succo. “Trace them. Find out where they’re going. We have to get to Soren. Once my brother is safe, I’m going to show that little shit and everyone why a Carmichael isstillthe leader of them.”

“I want to go,” I tell Steffan. The image of me from the photos in the dark room come to mind. I looked so confident. I straighten my back and stare at them both like the badass I am. “Iamgoing.”

Steffan mumbles and rubs the back of his neck. “I figured.” He turns and levels his eyes on me. “You probably should be with us. Leaving you here might be just as dangerous in case this is a trap to lure us away and leave you vulnerable. But —but —and I fucking mean it, Taylor, you are not to leave Succo’s side.” His eyes soften and his voice takes on a more tender tone. “I can’t lose you. They already took one person…” He pauses and his throat bobs as he swallows, “…one person whom I love. I won’t let them take another one.”

He loves me.Before I can respond, Steffan marches toward the door. He calls over his shoulder, “Don’t leave her side, Succo. Or you’ll be alligator bait.”

He slams the door behind him. Steffan loves me.I love him too. And Soren.I only hope I’ll get a chance to tell them both.

Blue Rose, Alabama

Soren

I’m dreaming again. I hear voices calling my name. My neck rolls along and my body isn’t even supporting itself anymore. The ropes are the only reason I haven’t collapsed to the ground.

“Soren!”

“Fuck off!” I croak.

“Here! Here he is!”

I flinch at the blinding light as the blindfold is ripped off. Rapidly blinking, my vision starts to slowly become clear. My binds are cut loose, but two hands keep me from falling. “I’ve got you,” the familiar voice says. It’s a normal voice. Not automated.

“Where are they?” I whisper.

“Drink.” A bottle is placed against my lips. The refreshing cold water tastes heavenly. “Not too much. Whoa. Whoa. You’re in bad shape, buddy.”

Ya think? I turn my head and register who is holding me. “What kind of sick game is this?” I hiss.

Alex Dupree has the nerve to appear shocked. “I just rescued your ass.”

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