“Well,” Rafe says, glancing between Luca and I and clearly intuiting that a little distraction might be necessary, “leave it to the Academy to get Ari out of bed, through a run, and then through a royal meeting before seven in the morning.” I turn my attention gratefully to my brother, and he gives
“The committee met,” Ben says, casting a hand out towards Alan as he moves towards the door followed by the man in brown, apparently wanting to get to his first class earlier than the rest of us. “They decided that the case was too inconclusive to kick Wright out completely – that there was no real
The woman raises her chin at me and jerks it towards the door, placing her hands solidly on her hips. “Let’s go, kiddo.” “Excuse me,” Rafe says, his shoulders lowered in aggression as he slowly gets to his feet. “Would you like to explain who the hell you are?” “Oh,” the woman says, giving a slo
“It’s legit,” I say to my brother, turning so that I address the rest of the table too. “It’s his signature and handwriting – I recognize it from his book and all the damning things he writes on my tests and essays.” Rafe’s shoulders slump a little as he turns back to the woman, as the focus of al
I scowl, stumbling into the tiny private gym. “I’m not weaker than a kitten,” I mutter, putting my hands on my hips. “I can…do stuff.” “As eloquent as you are sturdy,” Faiza says, raising a cheerful eyebrow at me. “Hey, I –“ “Look, kid,” the woman says, taking a step towards me, her voice beco
“But –“ “No but’s,” he says, holding up a hand as he interrupts me. “This is your course of study. If you do not accept it, you can leave the school.” I scowl, looking over at Faiza, who shrugs, clearly inviting me to make whatever choice I want. “But when will I study for my other courses?”
“You must work very hard, little bird,” Blaze says, smiling at me. “And even then, it will take time to master.” “I will,” I say, nodding again. “I’ll work very hard!” “Tonight, then,” he says, bobbing his head. “Here, after your Chemistry class. We will begin.” I express my thanks eagerly as
“So, you’ve got secrets then,” she says, closing one eye as if doing so will help her see me better. But then she laughs, leaning forward. “I actually like that you’re kind of cagey – I think it will make you a better spy. Damn,” she says, shaking her head at me. “I’m really glad dad got me here. I’