Page 76 of Exordium

“What do you want?” I sighed in exasperation.

“Well, I had news but with that attitude I don’t know if I’m going to tell you.” She pouted. I turned back toward the door and started walking. “Hey, where are you going? Didn’t you hear that I had news?” Kristine stomped her foot. I turned around once more.

“I don’t have the patience for your shit, Kristine. Either tell me or don’t.”

“You’re no fun. I’ll tell you but only because I can’t tell anyone else.” She walked closer and leaned in. “Mommy told me that things are beginning to come together, and it won’t be long now.”

I felt chills all over my body.

“When?”

“I don’t know. She did say that when students went home for winter break, they were going to have quite a surprise.”

Sophie walked in, halting our conversation.

“Hi Oren.” She batted her eyes, not even acknowledging Kristine.

“Hey Sophie, I was just headed to talk to you. Did you see Zane on your way over?” Kristine asked, obviously annoyed with her friend.

“No but I think Lindy said she’d seen him earlier near the library.” Sophie licked her lips, eyeing me like I was the last tampon in an all-girl’s school. I knew I shouldn’t have worn these damn grey sweatpants in public.

“I’m out. I know if I can catch him alone, I’ll be able to convince him to stay away from that stupid Hawthorne bitch.” Kristine said over her shoulder as she hurried away.

Sophie sidled closer to me, lowering her lashes, “So, do you want to come over to our dorm? Kristine will be out for a while looking for Zane.”

I felt the need to throw up just from the thought.

“Fuck no I don’t. I’ve told you more than once that I’m not interested.”

Sophie stuck her lip out, “But I’ve been practicing, and I can swallow a whole pickle without choking.” She ran her hand down my chest.

I stepped back, not being able to stand her touch, “I’m sure your digestive system thanks you. Now fuck off.” I hurried away before she touched me again.

Fuck, change of plans. I had to collect the guys from the wild goose chase I’d sent them on. Things were moving faster than I had anticipated.

I found them regrouping in the twins' apartment. I enjoyed immensely the look on their faces when I appeared out of nowhere.

“WHAT THE FUCK?” Zane screamed like a little girl while going for the knife he kept in his boot.

“How the hell did you get in here?” Zeke growled heading my way.

I held my hands out, “Calm the fuck down. I’ll explain everything, just hear me out.”

“Talk fast.” Zeke demanded in his no-nonsense way.

Jet remained quiet just observing us. He had positioned his body so that he could see everyone and keep an eye on the door in case anyone entered. Yep, military, no doubt about that.

“I’m going to explain some things and you’re going to want to kick my ass. Don’t do it. We don’t have time to fight with each other.” I crossed my arms over my chest and narrowed my eyes.

Zeke and Zane stood side by side. I took a moment to gather my thoughts, and Zane motioned me to get on with it, always the impatient one.

“Shit is about to go down and my family is responsible. I’ve been gathering information, but it’s gotten harder over the years. I think my father has begun to suspect I’m not on board with his plans.” I relaxed my stance but still watched the guys cautiously.

“What shit, exactly?” Zeke questioned.

“The Dark Factions are planning on invading our new world.” I said then waited for the explosion.

“What the Fuck!??” Zane yelled.

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