Caught in Us (Lost 3)

"I honestly don't know," he says. Dread overcomes me, settling over my shoulders with a crushing weight.

"Do you think he had any more trouble with the police?"

"No. The police arrested Gabe only. He'll be going to jail for some months, maybe a year."

"How do you know this?"

"Because I'm paying a lawyer to make sure he gets the jail time he deserves."

"And you’re sure there are no charges against Damon?"

"Positive."

"I don't understand why he didn't come to school then." I curl up on my bed, hugging a pillow tightly to my chest. It does nothing to calm me, but I need to hold on tight to something as I feel my love slipping away from me. "He hasn't even called, James."

James huffs into the phone. "What are you doing dating someone like him, Dani? A fighter?"

"He's not even fighting that much anymore. Look, it's not as bad as it looks. "

"Really? He's involved with people who are into things much more illegal than fighting; you don't even want to know. I've talked to Mom and Dad. I know you're doing worse at school."

"You talked to them about me?"

"Yeah."

“They are overreacting. I just got one C in one class—”

"Look, I know how you feel about him."

"Don't do this, James. Please."

"I've had a first love; I know how it feels. But sometimes, it's best to let go." Hot tears sting the corners of my eyes. "He's not good for you, Dani."

"Let's talk about something else, please. Why are you calling?"

"I...er...met someone last night."

"Shocker," I murmur, too low for James to hear me.

"And I've spontaneously invited her to the party today."

"You what?" This is a shock. "James, Mom is going to kill you. You know she makes a fuss about knowing the final number of guests at least a month before."

"I'll deal with Mom. Just make sure she gets in and you find her a dress." Since it's a themed party, everyone brings their costume, but Mom keeps a few as reserve, in case someone has an emergency. "I have some last-minute things to do at the office, and she'll be there before me."

"What's her name?"

"Serena McLewis."

"Let me get this straight. You met her yesterday and today you're inviting her here?"

"Correct."

"Why? You've never brought a date to any of Mom's parties, and God knows there will be enough chicks you've already banged here, willing to do you again. You don't need to drag another poor girl into all of this."

"I'm not sure I like the way you are talking to me." He laughs softly. God, I love my brother. "When did you become so cheeky?"

"Truth hurts, brother. Answer: why did you invite her?"