Chapter 41: SELF-INFLICTED TORMENT

Edeline Nixx closed his eyes, leaning back and placing his hands over his face. “I can’t, Edeline.” He shifted slightly, calling out, “Hey, Mom! Sorry, but I can’t help with that. I can’t handle not knowing what’s going on. It’s driving me crazy. I need answers… I really need them. Let’s see where this all goes.” He let out a long sigh, glancing at us to see how we’d react. I patted his arm, trying to reassure him, but Mom seemed taken aback. “But why, sweetie?” she asked, her voice tinged with concern. “Are you up for some self-inflicted torment? Staying here won’t accomplish much. Hey, you two, I don’t want to see either of you get hurt.” She plopped down between us, throwing an arm around us both and pulling us into a tight squeeze. “Hey, Mom,” I whispered, leaning into her warmth. “We’ll be fine as long as we stick together.” I paused, trying to ease her worries. “Everyone’s just over Percival and Tatiana after what happened at Nixx’s party. I reckon we’ll be fine.” I offered her a