Chapter 182 (1/2)

“What’s going on?” Landon asks Ken as I get to my feet and begin to gather my things.

“We can talk about it outside.” Ken’s voice is unsteady.

“I’m coming,” Landon says and stands as well.

Professor Soto looks at Ken. “Is that okay with you?”

“Yes, he’s my son,” he tells him and our teacher’s eyes go wide.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t know that; she’s your daughter?” he asks him.

“No,” Ken says tersely. He appears panicked, which is starting to scare me.

“Is Hardin . . .” I begin to ask, but Ken guides me out the door with Landon behind me.

“Hardin’s been arrested,” Ken tells us as soon as we get outside.

I can’t breathe. “He’s what?”

“He’s been arrested for fighting, and for vandalizing campus property.”

“Oh my God” is the only thing I can think to say.

“When? How?” Landon asks.

“About twenty minutes ago. I’m trying my best to keep this matter within the campus jurisdiction, but he isn’t making it easy.” Ken hurries across the street, and I nearly have to run to catch up with him.

My mind is racing: Hardin, arrested? Oh my God. How could he get arrested? Who did he fight?

But I already know the answer to that question.

Why couldn’t he just keep his cool, for once? Is Hardin okay? Will he go to jail? Real jail? Is Zed okay?

Ken unlocks his car’s doors, and the three of us get inside.

“Where are we going?” Landon asks.

“To campus security.”

“Is he okay?” I ask.

“He’s got a cut across his cheek and another on his ear, or so I’ve heard.”

“You ‘heard’? You haven’t seen him yet?” Landon asks his stepfather.

“No, I haven’t. He’s throwing a fit, so I knew it would be better to get Tessa first.” He nods his head in my direction.