What would you do? Jenny asked me.

She stood there, arms wrapped around herself like she was trying to keep warm, biting into her bottom lip.

I didnt even have to think about my response. Me? Id confess. The last thing Id want to do is spend my final days locked up with this lot. Mind you, Id probably give a long speech about how they owed their lives to me and how much they didnt deserve it. Make them feel as shitty as possible. Gratitude is fleeting, but shame lasts forever.

Jennys body sagged. She closed her eyes and and took a deep breath. It was me. I took the knife. You can all go. Her voice was steady, but she was shaking. She sank down into a crouch, arms hooped around her knees and rested her head in the little divot between her kneecaps.

Okay, everyone, I said, lets go.

They hesitated, looking at each other for support, for permission. I think they knew abandoning Jenny would be a death sentence for her. Even if she had stolen the dagger, they didnt want to be responsible for that. Guilt kept them from moving. They didnt want to be the ones to condemn her. They wanted someone else to do it.

I bent down so my head was about level with hers.

Arent you coming?

Jenny looked up at me, tears in her eyes. What do you The watery sadness in her eyes flipped into confusion, and then tumbled into something far sharper. You fuck!

You were very noble, I said. You didnt make them eat shit or anything.

Jenny sprang up like a jack-in-the-box. You fucking fuck. I had to step back quickly to avoid being headbutted.

Wait, said Claire. So, she didnt have to confess?

Nope. Why should she? She didnt do anything. Although, it was impressive how you turned on her like that. You guys are some heartless motherfuckers.

They all looked at each other. Outrage or shame? Place your bets.

Claires mouth went from frown to grimace to open bomb bay doors.

You know, I said, cutting in before she could start, she only just managed to get away from her last bunch of friends. Imagine how she feels now, thanks to you.

Claire faltered. Her eyes swung away from me and towards Jenny, who was still shaking with rage. I mean, she was shaking with rage at me, but Claire was in her line of sight, too. I didnt mind sharing.

All four of my original party bowed their heads as they took collective responsibility.

Claire slowly inched towards Jenny. She didnt make eye contact and her voice was low and mumbly. Sorry, Jenny. I know I was out of order and theres no excuse for how I acted, but

Sure, theres no excuse, but Classic.

the truth is after you spend as much time with Colin as we have, he starts rubbing off on you.

Wait a minute

Snapping and lashing out at people feels like the normal thing to do. I didnt even think about what I was saying, I was all wrapped up in myself, just like him.

How did this become my fault?

The truth is... Tears fell from Claires eyes. I was scared Id led everyone to their deaths and I just wanted to blame someone else, the way Colin would.

And what do you think youre doing right now?

I... I need help. I know that. If I start acting like him again, please punch me in the face.

The Carpenters Guild