Page 23 of Burn for Me

“Why?” I hardly notice how I lean closer, and his eyes grow dark until they’re almost black.

“Why are you scared of fire?” He fires back, and just like that, my trance shatters. I sit back in my seat and continue to eat in silence. He makes a low, agitated noise.

“You get to have the day to adjust. So rest, bathe, explore—whatever you want. You don't have to report to anyone,” Sam murmurs, flicking his fork across his plate.

I place my napkin on my plate and keep my gaze averted as I say, “Please tell Tide and Sharkie thank you. The breakfast was nice, and it worked out well. They had the right idea with it.”

He doesn't reply, so I stand and stare at him momentarily, taking in how the sun highlights the ash in his hair and how his tattoos peek out from under his white shirt, almost bleeding through the fabric along his shoulders. I don't want this moment to be completely ruined, so I can’t help but ask, “Moe said you're making my mask for the ball. Why?”

He leans back, interlacing his fingers on his abdomen, drawing my attention to the half skull inked on his hand.

“It was mandatory for Chaos soldiers to wear masks during the war and missions to protect our identities. I got used to creating them,” he replies calmly, but the slight twitch in his jaw suggests otherwise.

“Can I make yours?”

“I'll just wear a black balaclava like I used to.”

“Please?” I whisper, hoping to convince him to let me do something.

“I'll drop it off with you tonight, little devil.”

Nine

8-27-2024

I didn't fail.

-Sam

It stinks. The salt from the sea overpowers any other scent that might waft through the air.

It’s not her.

I pause by the door with her name printed across the hanging sign. She hasn’t left the room once since this morning. I tilt my head curiously, trying to hear any rustling or movement, but I find none. Today has turned out to be more than I could havebargained for. If I had known that food would loosen her tongue, I would have bought a whole buffet by now. She talked about minor things, but they’re just what I need to get a lead. Still, I want more.

I raise my hand, my knuckles hovering over the barrier. I need to see how her eyes squint when she discusses something she enjoys again. I want to feel her pulse when she admits her fears. Shaking my head, I slide the black mask through the small opening at the bottom and head steadily toward the boat's common area. Even though I’m riding a high, I still hit a low.

My favorite colors and smells aren’t things I think about daily. Most of the time, my mind is focused only on her or being a soldier, but at that moment, I felt…relaxed. So much so that I can’t tell you what time our meal arrived. I can’t remember if Jimmy walked across the landing pad at the same time as he did the morning before. I can’t recall anything except how the breeze pushed stray hairs across her face that I desperately wanted to touch—and that she didn’t correct me when I saidourlast name.

I let my guard down.

“Stop cheating! It’s just cards!” Moe yells, and a pillow flies into Caspian's face, pulling me out of my thoughts as I step into the area.

I laugh and let the boat’s sway close the door behind me.

“You want some, too?!” Moe snaps in my direction.

“What Iwantis a drink,” I grumble as I head toward the small bar area.

Cas went all out on this ship for Sharkie, making sure it was the best his money could buy while still being comfortable. Thankfully, he also included essentials for the crew. I reach over the island and rummage through the glasses. After the way the last two days have been, I hope Caspian has stocked some form of mercy in the shape of a long-necked bottle.

“I’m glad you two are here. I have some business I want to discuss.” Caspian grinds out.

I ignore his statement, opting instead for a triumphant “Aha!”

He rolls his eyes, and I shrug while pouring myself a glass of Scotch.

“By the way, Cordelia is with Jasmine.”

---