Of course. How would they, anyway? No one talks to mejust about me.
He glanced away. I knew it was painful for Alexander to imagine me at school without him. I just wish
Just say the word and Ill quit, I said, wide-eyed.
Before Alexander could remind me of the importance of my education, I pulled him close. Matt wants the five of us to go to Hooligans.
Jameson shuffled into the room with a tray of two bloodred smoothies, each garnished with a tiny blue plastic sword and three cherries. Alexander took one and I picked up the other.
Jamesons bulging eyes bulged out even more. Miss Raven, that is for
Ill save you the trip.
I marched up the staircase, followed by Alexander, careful not to spill the bloody concoction, and pressed my ear to Sebastians bedroom door. I could hear the sounds of footsteps on the squeaky floors, followed by a thud.
Room service, I called.
The door creaked open. Sebastians hair was sticking up like a starburst. He was sitting on his closed coffin in boxers, a black wrinkled shirt, and unlaced boots and was staring at the cell phone in his hand. Socks, T-shirts, and bandannas were scattered around his coffin like the dirt from his homeland.
What happened to you? Alexander asked.
I didnt sleep. Ive been up all day.
Well, heres your breakfast, I offered, almost shoving the drink at him.
Im not thirsty.
Oh, yes you are. I need you well nourished.
He examined the smoothie and fiddled with the tiny sword.
Try it, youll like it, I encouraged him.
He made a face. Anybody, is there a vein in the house? he called.
Alexander laughed.
It was never fun dining with the Sterlings, Sebastian continued. When the Camdens had people over for dinnerwe really had them for dinner, he joked like a vaudevillian comic.
Drink up, I demanded.
I watched Sebastian as the red liquid slowly made its way up the straw, past his full lips, and into his mouth.
I thought hed be repulsed, as one would be tasting sour milk. But he appeared to enjoy it just as any mortal might a strawberry shake.
Raven tells me you sent flowers to Becky at school? Alexander asked.
I didnt send them, he emphasized.
Whateverhowever, Alexander said. The point is
I know. Its justIve never felt this way. Really. I see how you two are. I feel that way about Becky.
May I remind you that Becky has a boyfriend? I said firmly.
What would you have done if you thought Raven had a boyfriend?
Sebastian challenged Alexander.