Chapter 38 - 42
Silence is my torturer, constantly crucified and persecuted by its infinite and depthless damnation. No one has spoken a word in days. When Vance and Kelsey came back—in the early hours of the morning. They didn’t say a word... which gives the impression that something happened. Which I’m afraid to question because then I have to answer the same question. Neither of us has been able to look the other in the eye. I’ve been holed up in the library and the others are wherever, unable to keep track of who stays or who goes.
In the three hollow days that have passed, I’ve been trying to get a hold of Simon, but it goes straight to voicemail. A hybrid feeling; worry and relief. Worried about his well being and relieved for the bad connectivity, because I can’t connect to the internet. The country still quakes with the news of Grayson’s tragic death, making him nothing less than a martyr. I sought asylum in the library, planning to spend most of my time there until my father and brothers arrive, but Landen has other plans.
"I’m not going to your adolescent and debaucherous yacht party."
Vance lingers in the archway of the sun lounge, on an island of his own, standing afar. Kelsey sits on the other side of the room, on an armchair, unnaturally quiet. I sit on the cusp of the long couch, an inch from falling off, ready to flee.
"In most cases it would be an invitation..." He pulls out his Iphone. "This isn’t most cases."
Landen pitches his phone at him. Vance catches it mid-air, frowning, he wakes the screen with a tap.
"How do you think I got dad’s yacht to the port?" He moves back to lean against the tall window, crossing his ankles. "I told him I wanted to throw a party. And Allison mentioned that it was the perfect opportunity for another public stunt since she believes things have gotten a little...boring between you two. Not enough face-time. She wants to recreate a buzz because Bahadur’s party is next week. Which means... I hear church bells ringing."
I stare at Vance, waiting for confirmation. Eventually, his face lifts from the screen and he gives me a tired nod. He sneaks a glance at Kelsey but her gaze is flung far into the distance, a flat, fixated stare on the lake.
Vance frees a tortured groan. "When is it?"
"Tonight."
***
Since the yacht is set to sail once we arrive. We get there late. The tiers of the superyacht are brimming with people. Music thundering from the ultra-luxury vessel even from where we stand. An exterior of black high-gloss and polished surfaces. Vance’s knuckles brushes against my hand suggestively. I look up at him, smiling softly before I interlock our fingers, assuming the facade.