CHAPTER 40

　　HAILEY

　　“What the hell were you thinking?” I was still pressing a tissue against my swollen nose, wincing in pain. “Who are you now, Hailey? I don’t recognize you anymore?” Dad was shaking with anger down at me.

　　“It was my fault, Mr. Ward. I went to your house to tell Hailey about Lexie,” Victoria said as we gathered in the precinct.

　　“No. It was my fault. I was the one who told Victoria to go to Hailey—”

　　“I don’t care who’s fault who! You all could have gotten hurt. Why didn’t you just call the police or call 911?”

　　“And tell what, Dad?” I met Dad’s gaze. “That someone held a party? As far as I know, it’s not illegal.”

　　“Underage drinking. Taking of drug substance. How about bullying? I don't care if they own the city, I still took an oath to protect the people.”

　　“Are we under arrest, Mr. Ward?”

　　“No. But you will stay here until morning.” Dad turned to me. “And you are grounded. You will stay and go to school from home.”