House of Wolves by Kellin D. Andrews

Author:Kellin D. Andrews
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Kellin Andrews

IV

Accalia

They’re trying to blame Jasper. For what, I don’t know. He and I are the only victims to speak of in relation to Hallam. But just after one detective told Derek that they dropped the case against Hallam, Matthew came by and said he was just questioned by others. It only took one mention of the phone number that Hallam used to message Jasper for me to put together that the cops are looking into Jasper himself.

“They think he sent himself the message,” I say. Matthew and I have moved from the window seat to my bed, where it’s more comfortable to sit.

“Why would he do that?” Matthew scoffs.

“To cover something up. To make the police believe that Hallam is evil and not him.”

“That’s ridiculous.”

“But it’s easier,” I point out. “Even if they can get Jasper to say he’s lying, it’s easier than searching for Hallam.” I hate that it makes so much sense. Even if they never prove that Jasper and I did anything, proving us to be unreliable is a win for them. Proving that we lied means they can call their job done.

Matthew gives a long, defeated sigh and leans his head on my shoulder. He’s been through an emotional rollercoaster since I told him that the police dropped the investigation on Hallam, and we’ve both finally settled back down – outwardly, at least.

“They even asked me if you’re prone to violent outbursts,” he says, mocking.

I snort. “What did you say?”

“Absolutely. I said you’re the worst. The full moon comes out and you become a big bad wolf and bark at little kids.”

I gasp. “Not the barking.”

He giggles. “You’re a menace.”

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” He cuddles up closer to me until I can feel his breath against my neck. I wonder how long he was waiting to ask for that hug.

“We’re telling Jasper’s family later.”

Matthew says nothing, waiting for me to elaborate.

“About us. Wolves.” It’s still weird to talk about it out loud, much less with people who live outside of my own household. For years, it was kept secret. Now, since we moved to Bradley, more and more people know.

“How are you feeling?” Matthew asks finally.

I sigh. “Hopeless.”

He pouts. “Don’t like that. Why are you telling them?”

It was a quick, desperate decision. Since I said it, I’ve been wondering just that. I’ve been doubting myself. “The more people around us who know, the better. Hallam might come for Jasper, and in the worst-case scenario, Jasper will end up turning. If he doesn’t, then more people know the whole story and will believe that I didn’t run away if I disappear again.”

Matthew sits up straight and looks at me. I stare at my wrinkled comforter under his knees, making craters in the mattress, and don’t meet his gaze. “You’re not going to disappear again,” he says.

“It’s just in case,” I say softly. I hate preparing for the worst. The thought of going back to live with Hallam makes me want to scream. But, if I do, I want to make sure someone actually comes looking for me.

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