Chapter 83 (1/2)

”We think there's a connection with Detroit,” Christian says mildly. Too mildly. Oh no, Kate - please give it up for now.

”Hyde is from Detroit, too?”

Christian nods.

The plane accelerates, and I tighten my grip on Christian's hand. He glances at me reassuringly. He knows I hate takeoffs and landings. He squeezes my hand and his thumb strokes my knuckles, calming me.

”What do you know about him?” Elliot asks, oblivious to the fact we are hurtling down the runway in a small jet about to launch itself into the sky, and equally oblivious to Christian's growing exasperation with Kate. Kate leans forward, listening attentively.

”This is off the record,” Christian says directly to her. Kate's mouth sets in a subtle but thin line. I swallow. Oh shit.

”We know a little about him,” Christian continues. ”His dad died in a brawl in a bar. His mother drank herself into oblivion. He was in and out of foster homes as a kid; in and out of trouble, too - mainly boosting cars. Spent time in juvie. His mom got back on track through some outreach program, and Hyde turned himself around. Won a scholarship to Princeton.”

”Princeton?” Kate's curiosity is piqued.

”Yep. He's a bright boy.” Christian shrugs.

”Not that bright. He got caught,” Elliot mutters.

”But surely he can't have pulled this stunt alone?” Kate asks. Christian stiffens beside me. ”We don't know yet.” His voice is very quiet. Holy crap. There could be someone working with him? I turn and gape in horror at Christian. He squeezes my hand once more but doesn't look me in the eye. The plane lifts smoothly into the air, and I get that horrible sinking feeling in my stomach.

”How old is he?” I ask Christian, leaning close so only he can hear. Much as I'd like to know what's going on, I don't want to encourage Kate's questions. I know they're irritating Christian, and I'm sure she's on his shit list since Cocktailgate.

”Thirty-two. Why?”

”Curious, that's all.”

Christian's jaw tightens. ”Don't be curious about Hyde. I'm just glad the f**ker's locked up.” It's almost a reprimand, but I choose to ignore his tone.

”Do you think he's working with someone?” The thought that someone else might be involved makes me sick. It would mean this isn't over.

”I don't know,” Christian answers, and his jaw tightens once more.

”Maybe someone who has a grudge against you?” I suggest. Holy shit. I hope it's not the bitch troll. ”Like Elena?” I whisper. I realize I've muttered her name out loud - but only he can hear. I glance anxiously at Kate, but she's deep in conversation with Elliot. Elliot looks pissed at her. Hmm.

”You do like to demonize her, don't you?” Christian rolls his eyes and shakes his head in disgust. ”She may hold a grudge, but she wouldn't do this kind of thing.” He pins me with a steady gray gaze.

”Let's not discuss her. I know she's not your favorite topic of conversation.”

”Have you confronted her?” I whisper, not sure if I really want to know.

”Ana, I haven't spoken to her since my birthday party. Please, drop it. I don't want to talk about her.” He raises my hand and brushes my knuckles with his lips. His eyes burn into mine, and I know this is not a line of questioning I should pursue right now.

”Get a room,” Elliot teases. ”Oh right - you already have, but you didn't need it for long.” He smirks.