Page 36 of Lie in Wait

Bella was still nowhere upstairs. Maybe she’d hidden somewhere downstairs. It seemed unlikely, given how many people were bustling around getting ready for the party, but she had to check.

After still not finding her, Ariana returned to the garage to see if there were any hiding spots in there. She checked her phone, not finding any missed texts or calls from Rita.

Damon smiled at her when he glanced her way. “Hey babe, do you mind grabbing me some extra nails from the shed? We’re running out quickly in here.”

“Sure.” She may as well do something useful since she couldn’t find Bella anywhere, though it was hard to imagine going on with the party if she didn’t show up before it started. How could they enjoy the festivities?

This time, Ariana grabbed a jacket before heading outside. She pulled up the hood and hurried to the shed, as the rain was picking up. At this rate, it would be a downpour before long.

She flung open the door.

Two eyes stared at her.

A Halloween prop?

It took a moment to realize it was Bella. By the time she did, she was already screaming. Or at least someone was screaming. She covered her mouth. It was her. She managed to get control of her vocal cords and stop.

Bella scrambled to her feet.

Ariana gasped for air. “What are you doing in here?”

“Iwashiding.”

“Your sister’s worried out of her mind.” Ariana had been too, but she didn’t want to heap guilt on the poor girl. She couldn’t really blame her for wanting to get away from all the demands and expectations on her.

Bella frowned. “I don’t need her telling me what to do. All I need is help making a fresh start for myself. That’s it. I’m an adult, and I should be able to make my own decisions.”

“I agree.”

“And another thing… Wait. You agree?”

Ariana nodded. “Yes. Most of us feel that way. Rita and I were arguing about that very thing before we realized you were missing.”

“So I can stay at your place?”

“Didn’t Damon and I promise you that room is available as long as you need it? We are more than happy to help you however we can. If you want a job, we can help you find one. We can be your references if you want. Whatever you need. But you can’t hide from us. Your safety is still a concern.”

Bella threw her arms around Ariana. “Thank you!”

The side gate slammed shut.

“You found her and didn’t tell me?” Rita marched over.

Blood drained from Ari’s body. “Ijustfound her.”

“Unbelievable.” Rita’s eyes shot daggers at her.

“We need to talk,” Ariana said.

Rita turned her attention to her sister. “You and I certainly do.”

“You aren’t Mother — you can’t tell me what to do. And actually,shecan’t either. I make my own decisions now. All of you have to get used to that.”

Ariana readjusted her hood. “Let’s get out of the rain and discuss this. I’m sure we can work this out.”

Neither of her friends looked like they believed her.

She wasn’t entirely sure herself.

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