The Blood-Stained River

7//

Right as I got home, Brandon sent a text to our group chat saying that we need to meet at the cafe across from town hall. I grab my backpack hoping to get some calculus homework finished while this drama ensues. I arrived the same time as Alex, we bought a coffee and waited at our normal table.

You know what this is about? Alex said, sipping his coffee.

I have an idea, I said blankly. I want to know what is happening to Jax. I look over to the town hall. It is combined with the police station, so if Jax is anywhere hes there. The bell on the door jingles signifying the entrance of customers. Brandon is trailed by Emma, they set their stuff down and go to the counter to order their drinks. Once we are all settled, Brandon started talking.

Alright, he started, So Jax is in my eighth hour and I asked him what the weather forecast was. He said he didnt know, he never checked the weather, Brandon said like he had uncovered something huge.

And? Emma asked. What does that have to do with Jax being his killer?

Everything! Dont you see? Brandon exclaimed, The guy doesnt know the weather! Normally the river is thawing, but this year, with the cold front, the river is still frozen. Thats why Emmetts body was found so quickly. I bet he was counting on it to thaw and take him downstream!

And you can place Jax there? Alex asked.

Yeah, he can, I stated monotone. They turn to me. Jax told me he saw you there, and that you- I was cut off by Emma.

Wait, she said holding her hand out, you were with Jax? When?

After school, I shrugged my shoulders and brushed some hair behind my ear.

You were with Jax after school? When did this become a thing? You do realize he could be Emmetts killer, She said staring into my eyes.

I dont know! Hes not even bad! I exclaimed.

Not bad? Alex asks rhetorically, Jaxson Pierce is the definition of bad. If he could throw all of us under the bus he would, Alex commented.

Thats not even true! The cops came to the river when we were there and he kept them from arresting both of us, I said.

Wait, are you saying that hes over there? Brandon asks pointing to the town hall. Now this I gotta see, he gulped down his drink, picked up his coat and walked out the door. I looked frantically at my friends. Alex gets up as well and I give him a look.

What I wanna see this too. Emma you coming? He asked, throwing away the trash on the table. Emma turns toward me.

Look, maybe he did, maybe he didnt. Either way you should come with us, She said lightly, placing a hand on my shoulder before following the boys across the street. I stayed at the table for another minute just staring at the town hall. Finally, I got up and crossed the street knowing that whatever is through those doors will change the course of our year, possibly the rest of high school.