Ruby Revenge

“Smoke the rest of it. I’m more than good.” The guy laughed and walked away before I could thank him.

“We’re going to check out what’s going on at the other bonfire. Want to come?” Jordan asked me.

I shook my head. “In a few minutes. I think I’m going to sit here and smoke this first. Do you have a lighter?”

One of the guys we’d been hanging out with gave me his lighter, and the group walked away. I stared into the flames and smiled. This night had been amazing. The effects of the drinks were pretty much gone, but I still felt like I was on cloud nine. I needed a night like this. A night of fun and interaction with other people.

Hannah and Jordan were so nice. People I could see being friends with in a different life. There were roars of laughter coming from the other fire. I glanced around to see that there was no one near me; they were all crowded at the other bonfire. I flicked the lighter, but it didn’t light. I tried again, but it only sparked. I was about to get up and join the other fire until someone sat next to me.

“Here.” An arm reached over, a lighter in hand.

“Thanks—” I froze when I recognized the voice.

I lifted my head up, and the joint fell from my hand. My heart lurched as my body went cold from dread.

“Hey, baby.”