Page 10 of I Dare You
But it slipped out so naturally, I didn’t even think twice.
“Oh shit, I’m sorry.”
I shrug, not sure how to reply.
We’re quiet for the rest of the drive, but it’s not uncomfortable.I peer out the window, observing things I missed riding the bus to school.When we pull up to my aunt and uncle’s house, it’s dark.
The front porch light is on.
The farmhouse has seen better days.It’s weather-worn and strips of paint fleck away in the punishing wind.I think it was painted yellow in its heyday.The white window shutters bang open and closed.
I gulp, running my sweaty palms on my shorts.
I expect Kit to kick me out of the car, but he turns off the engine.I watch in confusion as he gets out and opens the back door, grabbing my bag.
“You coming?”he asks, peering at me from the back before closing the door.
I quickly jump out of the car and reach for my bag, which he’s slung over his shoulder.“It’s okay.There’s no need for you to walk me to the door.”
He ignores me and walks up the front stairs.
“Kit!”I whisper-yell, not wishing to alert my family.
However, it’s too late, as the front door opens.
My aunt stands in the doorway, wearing a look of relief, anger, and confusion all rolled into one.
“I’m sorry, Aunt Justina.I lost track of time,” I say quickly.
“Who are you?”she asks Kit, before adding to me, “And what are you wearing?”
I don’t have time to answer.
“My name is Kit Rivers, and Hallie was at my family home.She and my brother, Dandy, are in the same class.It’s my fault she’s late.My mother asked me to take Hallie home, but I was working on my car.
“It won’t happen again.”
I simply stare, mouth parted in shock because I don’t understand why he would take the blame whenIwas the one who lost track of time.
My aunt looks out of sorts because Kit is being polite, and no harm was really done.“Well, thank you for seeing Hallie home.She knows better, though.”
“I know, sorry.”I bite my lower lip in remorse.
Kit gives me my bag.“See you, squirt.”
“Thanks for bringing me home.”
He nods and looks at me closely.I don’t know why.
I don’t question it, just watch as he walks down the porch steps, gets into his car without fuss, and takes off into the night.The moment he’s gone, I meet my aunt’s eyes.
I recognize that look.
“Go up and change, and then see your uncle.He’s in his study.”
I gulp down my fear, but nod.
The door closes behind me with a creak as I walk up the old wooden stairs.
