the girl called mystery

• epilogue •

"Mystery, what the hell are you going to do? You were involved in a murder, and you think you'll just get away with it? You're crazy!" My sister Kennedi screams when I finish explaining my story to her.

I shush her, "He arranged this whole thing. He set up everything. He even told me what to say and do. I didn't really want to do it. I can just tell the police that, and I'll figure it out from there."

"You're absolutely insane. I know you hate people and all, but this is just to damn far! I honestly don't know what to do with you!" Kennedi paces around our shared bedroom.

"I'll figure it out. No one will suspect a thing. I always find a way to work it out." A devilish smile spread across my face.

***

The next morning I went to the police station to file a report. My father has been on the run since then. He's been calling me, but I refuse to answer. I've been an absolute train wreck these past few days. I'll make it through. I'm strong. This is what I do. I'm broken inside, but at least I'm alive. Barely.

I still walk through the woods sometimes. It makes me feel connected to Colin in some way. I just wish we had more time. Some people at school make an effort to talk to me, even Colin's 'rat pack' of friends. I still hang with myself though. It's a shame that Colin's story had to end the way it did. All he was trying to do was help, but he ended up at the wrong place during the wrong time. I don't think I could ever forgive myself for the pain I've brought to Colin's family, or most importantly, myself. I can't just turn myself in, but I know I should. I do it when I'm ready to face the truth. If I ever get there. But for now I'll just keep waiting.