Chapter 45. Jealous

He nods as we dodge fast-paced walkers, and I’m not oblivious to how many glance my way, with sneers and weird looks, as we pass them going to their rooms, or wherever they have to be. My presence is noted, and the vibes I’m picking up on tell me that people know who I am or know I’m responsible for trashing their packhouse. I ignore it, lower my chin to avoid eye contact, and silently exhale to blow it all away.

Everyone leaving the room at once causes mayhem in this narrow hallway, and I can’t tell which way we’re even moving as we’re crammed among so many. It’s like ants evacuating a collapsing den via the only escape route. It’s claustrophobic.

“Yeah, I think we used to play in the same places as children,” I answer distractedly, avoiding collision with oncoming traffic, trying to be polite. Still, I’m too busy side-stepping large males pushing by and trying not to get trampled underfoot.

“We did. I remember you. You had a brother, Jasper, about my age.” Hearin