91

ALAYNA

“Arianna!” I squeeze my sister into an embrace as soon as I see her cross the door. It is midnight, but those left in the house are unable to sleep, anxiously waiting for everyone’s arrival. Heck, I couldn’t even help but think of the worst things that might happen to them since we haven’t even received any update. We are in the living room now with Cassius, Casey, and Pauline.

“I’m fine, Laynie. Really, really fine.” She hugs me back. Behind her are Brandon and his cousins, who seem unharmed too; only, I don’t see Jason.

“Where’s J?” I ask.

“Right here,” my brother comes through the door.

“Thank God you’re all okay.” I sigh, purging the anxiety from my chest. “Brandon—”

I’m abruptly cut off when Pauline appears at my side and jumps on Brandon. She wraps her legs around his waist and her arms around his neck. She probably thinks she’s some kind of a spider; no, a hairy tarantula. My skin crawls at the sight.

Get the hell off him!

She sobs. “You’re okay! I was so worried about y