Page 142 of I Dare You
Kit’s hand is in mine, offering me support as always.But there’s a distance between us which is understandable.It’s a lot to take in.But he hasn’t run.He’s stuck true to his word that he’s here to stay.
And that’s why I’ve decided to speak with Jupiter tonight.
I want this to end.
This isn’t fair to Dandy and Kit.
They don’t have to know.Or be involved.
This started with me.
And it will end with me.
Jupiter and I will do this together.
Jupiter is the one to now nudge me with her shoulder, as if reading my thoughts.
She always seems to know me better than I know myself.
Once this is finished with Jack, it still leaves me with what to do with Jupiter.I know she won’t simply go away.And a part of me doesn’t want her to.
But she can’t stay here with Kit and me.
So I’m stuck.
To use Jupiter to ambush Jack and then bid her farewell once I’m done feels heartless.Besides, the only way she’ll leave me alone is if she too meets a misfortunate demise.
I can’t do it, though.
It feels wrong.
It feels as though I’m killing a part of myself too.
Some Mariah Carey song sounds, hinting the ceremony is over.The mourners cry, sniffling into their handkerchiefs or the shoulders of their loved ones.
While Jupiter and I—we smile.
It’s done.
“Ding-dong, the bitch is dead,” Jupiter whispers into my ear.
I muffle my laughter.
Both Dandy and Kit turn to look at me.
I soon compose myself.
The priest welcomes everyone to offer their condolences to the family, which is our cue to leave.Jack can’t see us.If he does, he will alert the police and have us arrested.
We make a swift exit and walk toward the car.
Jupiter’s mood is high, hardly appropriate for a funeral.But I feel every skip to her step because I too am happy.Kit and Dandy just appear troubled.
We get into the car and drive back to Kit’s home in silence.
Kit and Dandy excuse themselves and convene in the garage.I want to follow, but it’s apparent that whatever they want to discuss is private.Jupiter and I walk into the kitchen, and although it’s early afternoon, Jupiter reaches for two wineglasses.
She pours us some red.
