Page 83 of Hide and Keep

“I’m just curious, you know, from a guy’s perspect—”

Ever cuts her off, saying, “Bradford’s a guy. Why didn’t you ask him?”

The blond glances around, his eyes glazed like he’s not really seeing anything in particular, just…above this topic, and says, “Because she knows I have to see the ensemble in person to judge it.”

“I think you’d look good no matter what,” I tell Paris honestly. As hard as she tries, she’s still got nothing on Ever, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t a pretty girl. She is. Just kind of pales in comparison. Paris is like a star. On her own, she stands out, but put her with the millions of other stars and she becomes forgettable. Ever though…she’s the sun. Once the sun enters the sky, every other star disappears from sight.

No one’s forgetting the sun.

Speaking of lethal balls of fiery energy, several shoot from Ever’s eyes as she stares me the fuck down.

I shrug.What?

She asked. I answered. What’s the big deal? Ever said it herself. I’m going to be by her side everywhere she goes. Did she honestly think I’d ignore someone speaking to me?

I save that special treatment for Ever.

My protectee’s trajectory switches from me to Paris.

Paris smooths her hair with her palms, her attention suddenly required on the ground between her feet as they begin shifting restlessly.

“I’ll see you later,” Ever announces, then storms away without another word to her clones.

I escort her to class, giving her professor a nod when she greets me with a warm smile.

At the sound of my name on Mrs. Flemming’s tongue, Ever’s gait slows significantly. She doesn’t stop or acknowledge either of us, just sort of lingers.

“Good morning, Mrs. Flemming,” I reply with a nod I don’t rush to lift all the way.

Yesterday, I took the liberty of going around and introducing myself to all of Ever’s professors.

“Oh, please, everybody calls me Johanna. Besides, Flemming is my ex’s last name and I’m counting down the days until I go back to my maiden name.”

“I just figured with the Mrs.…”

“I’ll change to Ms. once I drop the last name. And the emotional baggage.” She laughs.

“Okay,” I say, having no idea what else to say. “Well, then, good morning, Johanna.”

Even with my head bowed, I catch Ever surreptitiously shake hers. I knew she was listening.

“Any news regarding Mr. Munreaux’s stalker?” Johanna whispers to me.

I also let Ever’s professors know about Arthur’s “stalker.” Along with giving each of them my number, I stressed the importance of being informed immediately if Ever were to suddenly go missing. After all, it’s a matter of life and death.

“I’m afraid not. With the perp still at large, all efforts to keep the family safe are to remain in place,” I say, trying to sound as official as possible.

Ever’s scoff tickles my ears but she’s the one that led with that lie. I’m only going along with it.

And using it to my advantage.

Now if she tries ducking out again, I’ll be right on her ass.

“Would you feel more comfortable sitting in on today’s lecture? I don’t typically allow just anyone in, but I’m willing to make an exception.”

Momentarily forgetting about my scar, I scan the auditorium. Attending a real college class? I gave up on that dream years ago.

I guess I could, just to see what it’s like.

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