Chapter 9

“Where’s Chad?”

While he and Katie made a visual search for their third judge, Martha pointed over her shoulder with a thumb.

“Went to the truck. Angel’s probably showing him how to hold a rifle.”

“Oh, God,” muttered Kiko, shooting Martha a horrified look. “That’s a terrible—”

“She’s fine. He tries anything, Angel’s got great aim.”

“That’s what I’m afraid of,” said Kiko. He dashed outside, relieved to find an unharmed Chad drooling over a shotgun Angel was showing him. “Chad!”

He jumped. Angel leveled a glare Kiko’s way, but he didn’t care.

“Judging. You’re up. Get in here.”

“For real, boss?” asked Chad, groaning. He stuck his hands in his pockets but he left Angel to pack up the weapons. “You’re literally the worst boss ever.”

“I am. Don’t go running off alone with fifteen-year-old girls.”

“What? We were looking at guns.” Chad seemed genuinely confused. Kiko sighed and held the door for him. He’d have to explain it to him later. He was ready for this day to be over.