40. Ginger

"Good night!" Ariah called after Nate and Celeste, turning toward our bedroom door to unlock it.

I rubbed my arms, peering down the hall as students dispersed in all directions toward their rooms, then remembering I had promised Tilly, the ghost girl, that I'd leave the door to the courtyard open for her friend. I also wanted to check and ensure there was a cat named Ginger. I didn't want to risk helping someone when they were about to do something devious, like murdering someone.

Tilly seemed harmless, but I wasn't taking any chances. By the time I turned back, Ariah was already inside our shared bedroom. I stuck my head through the doorway. "Hey, I forgot to take care of something. I'll be back in a few minutes."

"Need me to come with you?" Ariah spun around, a mug in hand. "It's pretty late already."

"Nah. It'll be quick, don't worry."

"Kay. Want some coffee?" she asked, switching on the coffee machine.

"Before bed?" I snorted a laugh. "No, but thanks though."

She waved me off, and