I hurry my own pace, darting for an empty shower stall now, willing to take whichever is free – however filthy – “Ari!” Jesse hisses behind me. “Are you – are you kidding me – is he your –“ I squeak a little in dismay. “Don’t know what you’re talking about, Jesse!” I hiss, darting into the stall
Spirits are high in the dining hall that evening – at least, amongst the 80% of candidates who are relatively sure that they’re going to be admitted as candidates. Ben does his best, keeping his head high and laughing along with Jesse’s jokes as we move along the food line, filing our tray with a se
Our group sticks together as we head into the barracks for our final night, which pleases me because even though Jesse sticks close to my side – clearly wanting a word with me – there’s no opportunity for it with everyone around. The five of us hang out for another hour or so around the Sinclair b
I start to move away but he takes a step forward. “God damn it,” he growls, angry but putting a hand out towards me, almost pleading – “would you just stay still? I’m trying to - to apologize…” My eyes go even wider if that’s possible – god, they must be like saucers now – “You’re what?” I breat
“Wake up!” My eyes fly open as a hand slaps across my mouth, accompanying the whispered words. I gasp in a quick breath of air through my nose, but as soon as I realize that it’s Jesse – “Asshole,” I breathe, though the word is muffled against his palm. I start to swat at him, wanting to go back
“Can we just…slow down, Jesse?” I say, looking up at my cousin, whose face falls when he realizes his mistake. “I mean –“ “No, I totally get it,” he says, reaching out a hand for my shoulder again, “I’m so sorry, Ari – that was very uncool of me, you just met the guy –“ “And he doesn’t even know
I stare curiously at my cousin, waiting for my explanation. “I mean he’s going to be possessive,” Jesse says, shrugging. “The same way Rafe would be if he found his mate, and me too, to an extent. He just won’t want anyone else’s hands on you, will want you all to himself. And, considering that yo
Jackson starts towards it, but Rafe throws out a hand. “No way,” he says, shaking his head. “You can –“ “Rafe,” Jesse interrupts, staring at my brother, his expression shocked and a little appalled, “Aunt Ella raised you better than this.” Rafe’s eyes go wide with surprise and shame, but Jesse i