And we would possibly put an end to the Kappas’ stupid dare for good.

Once more, I stood before my sisters in the common room in an unofficial meeting. I lifted my chin. “So our very own Dare is now officially on its way.”

The girls all gave a light applause.

I looked first at Murphy. “Murphy Polk has somehow managed to secure the Kappas’ own Josh Collins.”

“Good luck reforming that one, Murph,” Margie commented. “He’s so full of himself.”

“Yeah, Murphy, you have your hands full.”

Murphy rose from the sofa and smoothed the front of her red plaid pajama bottoms. Then she daintily turned and poked out her bottom. Across the backside the word Queen was embroidered. She pointed at it. “There’s a good stiff reason I wear these bloomers, loves,” she said with a wicked grin. She rose tall. “I’ve got Collins, no problem.” She sighed. “He definitely needs polishing, though. Starting with a manicure.”

We all laughed.

I scanned the room. “Leslie, how about you?”

Leslie remained sitting on the floor; legs crossed yoga-style, her blonde pixie hair tucked behind one ear. “Jake Soverinson? He’s on the baseball team. Big buddies with the Kappas, but he’s not in the fraternity.”

Another light round of applause. I nodded. “Good job, Leslie.”

“Alright, Ms. Belle,” Murphy chided playfully. “Spill the proverbial beans. Who’s your man?” She winked at me. She knew.

I drew a deep breath. “Well, you won’t know him. I’ve only encountered him a time or two, actually.”

Several who’s filled the room as the sisters anxiously awaited more.

I pinned a smile to my face and drew courage from somewhere deep inside of me. Was I really committing to this? To say it out loud made it official. I inhaled. “His name is Kane McCarthy. He’s…actually Brax Jenkins’ older brother.”

Murmuring became a low roar as the girls all gasped and commented and then looked at me for more explanation. I folded my hands together where I stood. “He’s not a student. Actually, I’ve discovered he’s possibly the Kappas’ numbers man for the football season.”

I watched Murphy’s mouth pull into a grin, and she gave me an approving nod. She’d known I was on the fence about Kane, but seemed pleased I’d made up my mind.

“Isn’t that…illegal?” Annie Hall asked. Her shoulder-length black bob flipped up on the ends.

I nodded. “Yes, it is. Which is why he needs reforming in a big way. It also puts Brax at risk, and as we all know he needs no provocation. Or further risks. So all of this information is for our ears only. It doesn’t leave this room. I…aim to put a stop to Kane’s numbers, for his sake and for Brax’s.” Everyone knew Brax Jenkins—especially on Olivia’s behalf—would throw a punch at the blink of an eye. He’d been in trouble before and couldn’t afford any more.

Murphy grinned. “Brilliant, my friend, I knew you’d choose wisely. By the by, I think that tops even Josh Collins.”

“You’re probably right,” I agreed. “Okay, girls. Remember. This is a top Delta secret. If any of this gets leaked it’ll go straight to the Kappas. Or to the campus police.” I gave them all a stern look. “We don’t want that. So let’s begin. And don’t forget about the Turkey Run this Saturday. Even if you’re not actually running, please be prompt to hand out bottled water and snacks. Also, begin your lists for the bake sale. We’ll vote for five different recipes.”

Everyone agreed, and our un-official meeting adjourned. As usual, Murphy headed straight for me. She grasped my hands, felt me stiffen, and quickly released me.

It was a reaction I absolutely couldn’t help. No matter what I did. I knew she never meant any harm—it was normal for friends to do that. Only I wasn’t normal. And strangely enough, the only person who I ever thought suspected that about me, was Brax Jenkins. And, Murphy. I hid it well. Nothing less was expected of me.

And Murphy was extraordinary. Because she never, ever called me on it. Never judged. Like now, when I could see her eyes soften as she released my hands. Not out of pity, I didn’t think. But because she saw my reaction was real, unavoidable, and she truly wanted to be my friend.

There were times—so many times—I’d wanted to just tell her everything. To let her in. To be real, true friends. But I hadn’t. I didn’t dare.

“So. You’re going to relieve him of his wicked ways! What’s your plan?”

My eyes lit on hers. “First, I’m going to march right over to the Kappa House,” I grinned. “And place a bet. Let them know that I know.”

Murphy cocked her head to the side, causing the dainty diamond embedded into the side of her nose to sparkle beneath the lamp light of the common room. “You don’t know the first thing about numbers or betting, Harper Belle.” Her gaze narrowed. “Besides. That’s illegal.”

I gave a light smile. “I’m not really placing a bet. It’s just to get his attention again.”

There was the Cheshire Cat grin. “I like you, Harper Belle. I really, really do.”

* * *

I knew Kane was at the Kappa House; that vintage wagon truck was parked in their lot. I’d changed from my typical tailored suit that I wore during school hours to a form-fitting black dress, cream hose and black leather boots that zipped to my knees. A ginger colored silk scarf wrapped around my neck, and I’d pinned my bangs back with tortoise shell clips. Clutched beneath my arm was my black leather purse, and as I hastily crossed the street to Kappa House, I glanced over my shoulder.