“There’s a party at the dip on Friday,” Vincent said as a knock sounded out on the door.
Levin lifted his brows at us before answering it. A moment later, Stella stepped inside.
“Why are you here?” Dominic demanded immediately.
“Because I wanted to make sure you’re OK and to deliver a message,” she said.
“Well?” Dominic gestured for her to continue.
“Fallon saidfuck you, De Santis. He also said to tell Bianca he’s sorry.”
“Nice,” Levin muttered. “Little prick.”
“You know, Fallon is decent. If he’s doing shit with the lords, he’s being secretive as hell over it. He never acts like part of their group, even when they’re together.” Stella’s eyes were focused on Dominic.
“Let me guess. He spilled to you about getting kicked out,” Vincent mused.
Stella nodded. “He did. He’s pretty angry over it too. I really do think he’s innocent.”
“How do we know you’re innocent?” I asked, glaring at her.
She blinked at me like she was confused. “I’m sorry. What? I’m pretty sure youknowI’m loyal after all I’ve done for you. I’m smart enough to pick the right side. So excuse me if you have any doubts but rest assured, they need not be there.”
“Whatever,” I mumbled, not wanting her to get mad and tell Dominic I was taking birth control pills. Pretty sure she knew she’d be under the iron though if she did say anything.
“Anyway, Hail and the guys are going to the dip party. Will you guys be there?”
“Most likely,” Dominic said. “I do have some business to tend to before.”
The horsemen.I knew he was meeting with them. Vincent was staying behind with me, and Levin was going with Dominic.
“So you’ll be leaving campus?” Stella pressed.
“Don’t worry about where the fuck I’ll be. I’ll be where I need to be,” Dominic answered sharply
Instead of shrinking away, Stella drew herself up. “I’m only asking because I can be of help, you know.”
“I’m aware,” Dominic replied. “But for now, your help is needed by keeping an eye on the lords. If I need you for something else, I’ll send for you.”
“Fine. Whatever. I have a history class I’m about to be late for.” She turned to leave but stopped and looked back at Levin, a smirk on her lips. “Celeste was talking about you. Girl still has it bad.”
“Fuck her,” Levin grumbled, rolling his eyes. “Tell her to stop texting me.”
Stella laughed then left.
“Why do you keep her around?” I muttered to Dominic.
“Plucky comic relief,” Vincent said. “Dom has a use for her. He’s just biding his time, right?”
Dominic nodded slowly. “Indeed.”
“Whatever that need is, I can’t wait until it’s run its course,” I said.
Dominic said nothing. Instead, he pressed the ice pack back to my lip.
“Let’s just let this shit go for now so we can enjoy the dip party. I’m thoroughly sick of fighting from all sides,” Vincent said, rubbing his eyes.
I could agree with that.