18. Cold Blue

"I don't understand why Seb can't come to my party. Something came up, he says." Cal announces, frowning at his phone screen. 

Brad and I look at each other worriedly. Ever since Seb has confessed to having my diary, he has somehow managed to avoid me even when we practically live together. He's really good at it. The last time I saw him was three days ago. Apparently, he has been avoiding our other friends, too. This situation leaves a bitter taste in my mouth, more than the looming threat of the blackmailer that's currently out to get us any minute now. I feel this deep in my stomach from his absence, making me want to vomit, all exacerbated by the what we talked about the last time we saw each other. 

"He's probably just busy with all his little thinking projects. You know him." Brad tells Cal cheerfully, awkwardly swinging an arm around the birthday boy, who has been taller than him ever since I can remember. 

"But it's my birthday," Cal respo