Page 43 of Bittersweet Revenge

I was far from stupid, but the classes at Brentwood were challenging compared to my old school, and being a rich heiress investigating a murder was not a reason to slack off.

I’d just settled at my desk when I noticed the little blue light of my phone, reminding me of the text I had received when I was chatting with Caleb.

It was from Ben.I’m excited. I’ll get my bike next weekend.

I frowned.Already?I typed, but deleted it. I didn't want him to think I was having second thoughts even though I was – not because I was not ready to go to extreme lengths to avenge my mother’s death, but because I didn't want to put Ben, or anyone else, in any kind of danger to resolve this.

This was where my brother and I were still very different. He didn’t have any consideration for anyone other than the people he loved and those people could be counted on one hand. Whereas I still had a fully functioning conscience. Putting anyone at risk, no matter how I felt about them, still didn't feel right.

Okay, great! I’ll see it soon.I replied and toyed with my phone. I needed to set things in motion now.

I texted our group ‘study session’ which was composed of Antoine, Archie, and Taylor. Part of me really disliked doing everything behind Caleb’s back, but he resented Archie and I too much for me to involve him. I wasn’t sure he wouldn’t reveal everything just to watch us bleed. It hurt me not being able to trust him; it really did.

Me:Need to meet tomorrow before class.

Antoine:Told you we can’t have sex. I’m in a committed relationship with your best friend.

Leave it to Antoine to stir shit any chance he got.

Archie:Don’t worry, sis. You ain’t missing much.

Antoine:Fuck you, Forbes. My dick is decent. Let’s ask Taylor. Taylor, babe, tell Astor I have an epic dick.

Archie:I didn’t think your ego was so fragile, Antoine. If you need it stroking maybe Taylor should reconsider her choices in men. Your cock is ‘decent’ – wow every girl’s dream.

My brother really enjoyed playing with fire.

Antoine:I love being stroked, and don’t worry, it’s dealt with.

I rolled my eyes as Taylor messaged me privately.

Taylor:I can’t deal with these petulant children; I might kill one of them. Tomorrow science lab 7:30?

Me:Yes, see you then. I’ll deal with them.

Me:Guys, nobody cares. Tomorrow 7:30 science lab. I texted, ready to move on.

It was Archie’s turn to text me off the group chat. Why did we even bother?

Archie:Do you want me to pop over? We can discuss now.

I sighed. It was still difficult for me to get used to the overprotective brother, but I knew he was not going to take no for an answer.

Me:Can’t, have a family dinner with the in-laws.

Archie:Fuck, I’m sorry. That’s gonna suck.

“You think?” I muttered.It’s fine. It's only dinner.

Archie:Call me when it’s done?

Me:Sure. Love you.

It took him a few moments to answer. I knew that these words were still unsettling to him, but I was going to tell him over and over again until it was natural for him.

Archie:I love you too, sister.

I stayed in my room the whole day, ringing for lunch to be sent up in between studying and trying to catch up on my month away.