Shattered Asylum

Chapter 14

Nora came over shortly after, apologizing until I gave in and forgave her. Kristina, however, hasn't let it go. She's still furious, only speaking to Nora when she has to, her clipped tone saying everything her words don't.

Kristina hasn't asked about the scars on my body yet, though I know the questions are coming. She's probably waiting until we're alone. I'm relieved she hasn't brought it up, I wouldn't even know how to begin explaining.

By the time 10 p.m. rolls around, Vinnie, Noah and Madison have shown up. Surprisingly, it was Noah who invited Madison. I thought he and Nora might have something going on, but I guess not. The dynamic feels off tonight, tensions simmering beneath casual laughs.

Kristina begged me to stay another night at the twins' house, promising to drive me home in the morning. When I called Grandpa to ask, he didn't hesitate, happy I'm finally spending time with friends.

He did, however, make me send him the address and Grayson's phone number, just in case. Grandpa's protective like that, always looking out for Grandma and me, especially since they're out of town again this weekend for work.

Downstairs, the twin's basement is a mix of cozy and chaotic. The centerpiece is a massive sectional couch facing a flat-screen TV mounted above a sleek fireplace. Recliners bookend the sectional, and off to the side, a pool table sits under a stylish chandelier. Against one wall is a cabinet stuffed with an impressive collection of alcohol, with a bar table and high-backed stools nearby.

I sink into the recliner farthest from the others, pulling my knees to my chest. Nora hands me a red solo cup filled with some mystery drink. The sharp, chemical scent hits my nose as I take a cautious sip.

I immediately cough, my face twisting in a sour grimace. "Straight vodka?" I mutter, my throat burning. Despite the bite, I force myself to take one more sip before setting the glass down. I'm determined not to repeat last night's drunken disaster.

Around me, the chaos begins. Noah and Ethan are locked in a heated game of pool, while Vinnie and Grayson are battling it out on Nubbins Kart. Madison is practically glued to Grayson's side, her arms draped around him like he's her personal trophy.

I glance back at Noah, catching the sharp glare he's aiming at the back of Madison's head. His jaw is tight, his grip on the pool cue white-knuckled. Something about his expression makes me pause.

I am way too sober for this.

I head to the bar table to mix myself something more palatable. As I'm deciding between vodka and cranberry juice or something simpler, I hear the stool beside me scrape against the floor.

Nora stumbles into view, struggling to climb onto the seat. She's laughing to herself as she wobbles, and I can't help but chuckle at the sight.

"Need some help?"

"Please," she says, giggling.

Grabbing her arm, I steady her long enough to help her onto the stool. Once she's seated, we high five like we've just conquered the hardest challenge. Nora turns to me, her eyes glazed over and unfocused.

"Let me tell you a secret," she says, leaning in close and grabbing my head. Her breath smells like tequila and weed.

"What?" I ask, my voice low.

"I'm more than just drunk," she whispers, her tone conspiratorial before dissolving into hysterical laughter.

I roll my eyes, pouring cranberry juice into my cup. As I make my way back to my recliner, Madison's shrill voice pierces through the room.

"I'm bored!" She whines, drawing out the word like a child.

I grit my teeth, annoyed but unsurprised. That girl has a talent for sucking the energy out of any room. Settling back into the recliner, I try to tune her out, only to hear Nora's footsteps thudding against the floor.