“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’
I sit back in my chair, staring at her, suddenly seeing the logic of this. My entire life, I’ve been the perfect princess. And I never, ever considered that what I was doing could be use as a smoke screen for a second identity underneath – one that’s been secretly growing since the moment I entere
“It’s not like that,” I say, dropping my head a little, wondering at myself. “My mates – Jackson, especially – are…a benefit to me. Not a weakness. I don’t need to run from them to do my job; and if I need to be separated from them for an assignment…” I shrug. “I’ll make them understand.” “All rig
I throw open the door to our room and stumble inside, panting and exhausted and covered in sweat from my lesson with Blaze as I toss my new chemistry textbook onto a side table. “I just had the best day,” I sputter out, each word seeming to come out on its own little pant. “Ariel!” Rafe shouts, fr