Shattered Asylum

Chapter 46

WARNING:

Slightly mature content

I pick up Nora before heading to Grayson's house. He texted me earlier, saying we're still on for the hot tub, so I packed my dad's old t-shirt and a pair of spandex. It's not exactly swimwear, but it's comfortable enough.

Even as I drive, my mind keeps circling back to what Daniel said on Monday. His words echo in my head, sharp and taunting, leaving a heavy, sinking feeling in my stomach. I tighten my grip on the wheel, trying to shake it off.

"Hey, snap!" Nora's voice pulls me from my thoughts. She's holding up her phone, recording a Snapchat story like it's a daily ritual. "Sorry I've been MIA, guys," she says to the camera, flipping her hair dramatically. "Life's been crazy... school, work, the usual grind."

She rambles for a moment before turning the camera on me. "But anyway, me and my bestie are off to a party! Hot tub vibes incoming," she adds with a giggle, zooming in on my face.

I force a small smile, glancing between her phone and the road. Cameras always make me feel awkward, I never know how to act.

"Isn't she just so hot?" Nora gushes, flipping her camera back to herself. "Her skin is flawless. Ugh, I'm so jealous!"

My cheeks heat up as she keeps hyping me up, her enthusiasm so over the top it's almost funny.

"You're ridiculous," I say, laughing under my breath and rolling my eyes.

"Ridiculously right," she shoots back, smirking as she rewatches the clip before posting it to he story.

We pull to Grayson's house a few minutes later. As usual, Nora doesn't bother knocking. She pushes the door open like she owns the place.

"Sup, bitches!" The party has arrived!" She announces, tossing her bag onto the couch.

There's a shout from the backyard, followed by the sound of footsteps thundering toward us. A second later, Vinnie bursts into the room, moving so fast I barely register what's happening before he tackles Nora in a bear hug.

"Can't... breathe..." she wheezes, smacking his arm weakly.

"Oops, sorry, babe. I just missed you," he says, loosening his grip but keeping his arms around her waist.

"You literally saw me a few hours ago," she says, rolling her eyes. But the way her cheeks flush and her lips curve into a shy smile says otherwise. It's a look I haven't seen from her before, soft and unguarded, like she's completely smitten.

Not wanting to intrude, I slip away to the bathroom to change. I leave my bra on under my dad's shirt and stuff my hoodie, sweatpants, and underwear into my bag. Towel in hand, I make my way to the backyard.

The yard is buzzing with energy. Music plays from a speaker on the patio, and groups of people lounge around, laughing and chattering. I recognize most of them, though some faces blur together after a while.

My stomach twists when I spot Madison and Ashley near the grass, dancing together like they're on stage. A group of guys has already formed around them, shouting crude comments.

I groan under my breath. Why are they even here?

Before I can dwell on it, a pair of arms wrap around my waist, pulling me back into a familiar chest. The scent of Amber wood and vanilla fills the air, instantly calming me.

"Hi," Grayson murmurs, his voice low and warm against my ear.

I lean into him, my body melting against his like it's second nature. Tilting my head to the side, I meet his gaze. "Hi," I whisper back, my lips curving into a smile.