Eighteen

After what had happened the night before, James went up to his room and lay down. He was wide awake, and it wouldn't be long before the sun came up anyway.

The fire had happened because of an appliance that had been left plugged in the bathroom. Probably a hair straightener or something like that. It started there, and quickly caught on the towel next to it, moving on to the curtains and the carpet.

He felt confused. He was furious at Luna's irresponsibility, as that accident could have triggered something much worse. But he was also completely frightened. Portia was safe, Rose was safe, Luna was safe, but...Luna? what if something had happened to her? Because in a way, he felt responsible for her. He had put his life at risk with Angelica. That was all.

Something was happening, though.

He felt interested. No. Or did he?

He was in denial.

Two months had passed since Luna had been home. Two months was a consistent time to trigger affection for her. He considered her his friend. Somethi