Chapter 29

Nerves tore at my insides, threatening to bring up my breakfast. I was already painted up, wearing the cherry blossom design, with a few slight modifications. The paint was now all gone, but I looked the best I possibly could.

“Good luck,” Mhairi whispered as Edward escorted me out to Yaru's car. I didn't reply, unable to. I was going to need more than luck.

Yaru sat waiting, his eyes meeting mine.

“Take me to Kioshi,” I said before he could ask and I could change my mind.

“Kioshi? Are you sure?”

“Yes,” I replied, not sure at all. But it was the best plan I could think of. And I'd been up most of the night going over alternatives and possible ways it could go wrong. It was my best shot.

“He's going to be the hardest to convince of your innocence in all this,” Yaru replied.

“I know. And so does everyone else.”

“Big gamble. Do you think you can lie that well?”

“I did last night, didn't I?”

“Yes, my dear. Far better than I'd have ever expected, I must confess.”

I didn't reply, agreeing wi