CHAPTERTHIRTY-THREE
Shane
“Hey,” Afton says, taking the other seat next to Snow.
“How’s the show?”
“Oh, God, that haunted house is going to be a disaster.” Afton laughs. “Everyone is still fighting. They were told that the kids would be voting when they exited. Kids have to vote on overall presentation and costume.”
“Oh, man.” Snow tries to hide her grin, but the hiccup of laughter gives her away.
“I was already eliminated.” Afton shrugs.
“What?” I wonder what the hell happened.
“I confronted London about what he said to Snow. He got in my face, and then that Scott guy stepped in between us, hauling him away. Sal came to tell me that I was off the show.”
“Wow,” Snow mutters.
“I don’t know what’s gotten into him,” I say, my own internal struggle consuming my thoughts. He’s not himself and I can’t understand why. It’s like I’ve lost my best friend. I wish he would just talk to me. “I thought he was good until he went after Snow.” I spear my fingers through my hair. “He’s another person lately.”
“Let him go,” Snow says, staring at her hands for a moment.
“What?” I ask again.
“If he really wanted to be with any of us, he would be here trying to make it right.” Snow shrugs. “He hasn’t slept in the same bed for a week. He didn’t even come home the other night. Maybe it’s not meant to be.”
“I agree,” Afton says, though the expression on his face seems a little upset, understandably so.
“What are you going to do now?” I ask Afton.
“Wondering if I could stay for a while,” he replies.
“Fine with me. Life on the farm isn’t all cookies and rainbows.” I snort, attempting to lighten the mood a bit.
“I’ve met Harvey.” He shakes his head with a smile on his lips.
“I’m glad you’re going to stay.” Snow blushes. “Everyone likes you.”
“I like everyone as well.” Afton takes her hand and holds it while I help some little kids.
We hand out extra sweets for a couple more hours. Afton and Silas went to get us drinks and food. I should have brought some for us. I was thinking of London and how he would have a full day of being with the show. I guess I was thinking with my dick.
But fair food is good, and it’s fun to live a little.
“Time to clean up.” I stretch, standing and raising my arms over my head.
“What about Harvey?” Afton asks.
“He’ll stay here,” Snow says, and I nod. “He and the other animals have a good pen and a little shed they can sleep in if they want to. We’ll be back tomorrow.” Snow pauses, tapping her bottom lip with her index finger. “And we need to bake more.”
“That sounds fun.” Afton grins.
“It will be an all-nighter,” I warn.
“I’m good,” Afton says. “I’m off for another season.”
“How?” I ask, cocking my head to the side in question.