Chapter Two

As a typical Friday, the school was abuzz with excitement, and I found myself standing out as the only one not going to the party. However, it seemed like nobody cared, including myself. I couldn't help but notice that everyone else had checked out for the day, and if they had a choice, they would have ditched school altogether. Even my brother, Paul, had already secured a party invitation with one of Ashley's clones, not realizing that they could not think on their own without their shared brain cell residing in Ashley. It was hilarious to see how Paul thought with his little head, rather than using his brain. I wondered if I would be the same if I were a guy, but it was just a strange thought.

As I was lost in my thoughts, a group of girls passed by giggling and talking about the party of the year, which I found unbearable. I had only one class left and couldn't take it anymore. I decided to do something I had never done before - ditch school. It seemed daunting at first, but I knew I had to be careful and stick to the walls to avoid being seen. In my mind, I could hear the Mission Impossible theme song as I made my way to the front doors, ready to be invisible if anyone were to spot me.

As I walked out of school, I couldn't help feeling disappointed. Despite all my planning, nobody had noticed me leaving. I had hoped for some sort of reaction, even if it was just a fleeting moment of concern. But I suppose that was too much to ask for. At least I wouldn't have to deal with any more drama over the party. I was looking forward to finally putting it behind me.

As I made my way home, I couldn't help but think about the aftermath of the party. I secretly enjoyed the thought of someone doing something embarrassing and it being caught on video. It would be the talk of the school for weeks to come. But for now, I had other plans.

Once I got home, I immediately went to my room and grabbed my favorite pillow and a throw blanket. I was looking forward to binge-watching Supernatural on N*****x. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long week at school.

The next day, I was in the middle of a Dean, Sam, and Castiel marathon when I realized how hungry I was. Pizza rolls sounded like the perfect snack, so I started preheating the oven. I vaguely remembered my parents talking about going out, but I was too engrossed in my show to pay much attention.

As I was arranging the pizza rolls on the tray, I heard the front door close. Normally, a seventeen-year-old girl home alone might be scared to hear the front door close, but not me. I was too focused on my show and my pizza rolls to be concerned about anything else.

As I prepared my lunch, I couldn't help but think about the safe that my parents kept locked up. Only they knew the code, and I had nothing of value that anyone would want anyway. I was just a nobody. So, I focused on my task and slipped the tray into the oven.

Suddenly, I heard Paul whining from the living room, "Jasmine, Aspirin." I couldn't help but laugh. Of course, he would come home hungover. I grabbed a bottle of water and two aspirin before heading to the living room.

The smell of stale alcohol hit me like a ton of bricks as soon as I entered the room. I gagged a little as I looked at Paul. He looked like hell. His familiar hazel eyes were clouded over with dark rings, his skin was pale, and his hair was standing up in all different directions.

I handed him the pills and the water, which he took thankfully. I watched with amusement as he contorted his face in discomfort. The hazards of drinking, I thought to myself.

"So, how was the infamous 18th birthday party of Levi Stone?" I asked, not really caring but curious to find out if any of the rumors were true.

"Soooo much alcohol," he groaned, reminding me of a whining five-year-old. It didn't come as a surprise that there was alcohol at the party.

I can't help but roll my eyes as Paul complains about his hangover. It's not like he didn't know what he was getting into by going to Levi Stone's 18th birthday party. But then again, I can't really talk since I skipped out on the whole thing. It's just not my scene.

I can't help but wonder why high school kids are so obsessed with drinking. We're at the prime of our lives, why waste it away with moments we might not even remember? But as Paul continues to sing "booty booty rockin everywhere," I can't say I'm surprised that alcohol was involved. And if the rumors are true, Levi and his friends hooked up with as many girls as possible.

"Well, sounds like everyone had a grand ole time," I comment, standing up and walking towards Paul. "Come on Jas, I'll help you upstairs."

He's not making it easy for me, being heavy and uncooperative, but I manage to pull him off the couch. As I support him, Paul mentions that Levi and his goons - Jason, Newgate, and Charles - left the party early. I can't help but detect a hint of jealousy in his voice. After all, my brother is practically a popular kid himself. But why would they leave a party early, especially if there was supposedly "booty everywhere"? It doesn't add up.

As I pondered the possible reasons for the boys' early departure, a disturbing thought crossed my mind. Maybe they were planning a robbery after all. The fact that they left together, and with Levi, who is known to be involved in some shady business, raised some red flags. My mind raced as I considered the possibilities, and I couldn't shake the feeling that something was not right.