93

“Guys, wake up! It’s him. Silvanus is calling now; he’s calling,” Pauline says, and I snap out of my dreamless sleep. I roll onto my stomach and find that my head is still resting on Brandon’s lap.

I push myself up and realize everyone is gathered in the living room. Jason, Arianna, and the twins are wide awake.

“Damn, Pauline.” Casey rubs her eyes and sits up on the sofa. Cassius is next to her.

The twins automatically move to her side and stare at the phone she’s holding. It’s as though I can feel everyone’s tension, and my heartbeat accelerates too.

“What are you waiting for?” Constantine asks.

“Answer him!” Carmelo says.

Brandon and I briefly share the same astounded look.

“Put it on speaker,” Brandon instructs.

“Isn’t he supposed to talk to Arianna first?” Pauline asks anxiously.

“Just answer him!” the twins shout simultaneously.

“No, no. It’s fine. She’s right,” Arianna says. “He should hear from me first. We don’t want him dropping the call.”

Pauline blows out a sharp breath an