*Aria*
’Who do you think was behind this?’ Ryder’s question hangs in the air, a challenge and a concern wrapped in one. His eyes, dark and intense, search mine, seeking an answer I can’t give, and answer I do not dare voice.
I swallow, the lump in my throat suddenly immense. To tell him the truth… that I suspect someone far more dangerous than street thugs… feels like a terrifying leap into the unknown, and also the truth would send him running for the Hills… and maybe I am wrong, maybe I was just the unlucky one.
“Honestly, Ryder,” I begin, my voice a near whisper, “it felt… random. Like they just picked me because I was closest.” The lie tastes like ash in my mouth, but it's the only option I see right now. “Also I can’t imagine why else.”
He doesn't challenge it directly, though
