I know where you are coming from, and you are right (I love your insight and comments!). But Brad probably is going to be suspicious no matter what, since Jason is supposed to stay with Devyn. He's going to keep track of Jason's movements outside the house, no matter when he goes. I think, for Jason, he feels he has to move faster now because he knows what's happening at the 'tutors' and since Devyn goes to them everyday, Jason doesn't want to take Devyn back to them again. But if he continues to do what he did with Natales, it wouldn't take long for Brad to find out. I think that's why he feels he has to do it now, before it gives Brad too much time to figure out what he's doing. And he does think they are playing it cool, I think. By dropping off Devyn, I think Jason believes that Brad can't/won't believe that Devyn knows what Jason is up to--that it will keep Devyn safer (of course he's wrong, but that's besides the point). I'm sorry you're frustrated. I hope that the end doesn't disappoint you, but I also think Jason 'moving slower' and thinking more logically makes for a less exciting ending as well. I mean, I'm sure you know by now that I'm going to torment my characters! Hope you keep reading and it isn't too unrealistic for you.