#Chapter 12: The Second Secret Conversation

I’m uncertain about whether to approach him. But then I remember the recording in my bag. I duck into a nearby alcove and turn it off, then hit replay. Listening, I can tell that it’s definitely picked up my conversation with Charles.

I have proof.

That settles it for me: I need to find a way to bury my past, once and for all. But before I can even think long enough to move toward approaching Kent, I hear hushed voices and rushed footsteps coming down the hallway.

Oh, my god. It’s Charles again, and he’s practically dragging my father by the arm in the direction of the private little room where he and I had just had our talk. Darlene and Becki follow behind them, glancing around as if they’re worried about being followed.

Once they’ve passed me, I peer around the corner of my alcove and look at Kent. He’s watching me. I raise my eyebrows at him, and he nods, subtly gesturing toward the blacks of my family as they skitter down the hallway.

Got it: follow them.

I wait until they turn th