― UNKNOWN NUMBER! (IRWIN)

17

Au: the truth

I knew it got to Ashton when I called Calum Cal and him just plain old Ashton. I knew and I didn't stop.

Why? Because he told the officer something he doesn't want me to hear. And that's a problem...a big problem.

This was my life at stake not his. The only reason he knows about the...uh...complications in my relationship with Jason was because he was eavesdropping on our conversation.

1) that's just plain rude 2) I've only spoken to him on the phone about 12 times 3) its wasn't his business to tell in the first place and 4) if Jason finds out Ashton and I are both done for.

I didn't want to be the reason Ashton shows up to one of his concerts with a busted lip and bloody nose. I didn't want him to hurt himself and I didn't want Jason to hurt him either.

Was I pissed that he wouldn't tell me? Extremely. But wouldn't any sane person be? I was so lost in my thoughts I didn't notice all the boys come back in the room. That is until Calum cleared his throat.

"Hey guys,"

They were silent.

"Um guys?"

"Nikki—"

Ashton quickly cut Michael off.

"Can I tell her alone?"

The others nodded.

"You guys are really scaring me,"

I was nervous now. None of them said a word as they left. Ashton rocked back and forth on his heels before he slowly say down in the chair closest to my bed.

"Ash, what's going on?"

His head popped up when I said Ash. He gave me a sad smile.

"They're not charging Jason with anything. He's free to go,"

Tears began to fall one by one. Soon enough a sob escaped my lips.

"Why?"

I managed to ask in between sobs.

Ashton stood up and held me against his chest as I cried.

"They don't have any clear evidence,"

"Clear evidence? That's what they want!? Then what to you call this!?"

I pulled up the sleeve of my hospital gown and pointed to the scar.

Mine.

That was all it said. That was all he wrote with his knife...on my shoulder.