Page 47 of Red King

“Yeah, well, Paisley and I discussed it, and I felt that the hike just wasn’t the best idea for today since poor Lauren is still recovering.”

I nod.

“She would never have made it all the way to the beach. This was a—”

“I’m going to have to stop you there, Cathy. Well done with the changes. This hall looks amazing. The numbers were a fantastic idea, but number one hundred and nineteen is waiting for me as we speak.” I gesture to the lonely female at the bar. “I have to go. I can’t leave her hanging.”

“Of course not. Yes! Go! Go!” Her eyes go wide. “I mean that with the most respect—”

“I know. All good.” I walk away, feeling relieved.

Number one hundred and nineteen’s eyes light up as soon as she sees me. She’s pretty enough, with big brown eyes and a smile that lights up her face.

“I’m Dani.” She holds out her hand.

“Arctic.” I shake it.

“So, you like reading epic fantasy novels?”

“When I get a chance…yes. What about you?”

She winces. “Not much of a reader, I’m afraid.”

“What is it that you do for a living?” I find that it’s always a conversation-starter.

“I’m a pre-school teacher. I love kids.”

She’s perfect. I feel absolutely nothing.

Fuck!

Maybe it will come. I just need to talk to her for longer.

“Tell me all about it. How long have you been a pre-school teacher?”

“About three years now and all at Saint Michaels. It’s such a rewarding job, seeing the children learn and grow every day. I feel like I am making a real difference in their lives,” she says with genuine enthusiasm.

“That’s amazing. Teaching is truly a noble profession,” I tell her. “I’m sure you must have a few stories to tell.”

“I do.” Her whole face lights up. “There was this boy in my class, Jeremy. Anyway, one day, he comes to school and…”

I find myself zoning out. I have to force myself to concentrate on what she’s saying. To nod at the right places. To laugh when warranted. Okay, so number one hundred and nineteen isn’t the one. I’m ashamed that I don’t even remember her name. Maybe the next Tribute I meet tonight will interest me even just a little bit. I hope so.

13

Paisley

I’m nervous. My hands are sweating, and I’ve never had sweaty hands in my life. I’m not sure why I’m so worried. Last night was a huge success.

By the end of the night, candidates and Tributes were mingling without any intervention. I did notice that Arctic left early.

Why?

Didn’t he enjoy himself?

Didn’t he meet anyone he liked?

When I first noticed that he was gone, I had a moment of panic. I wondered if he might have left with someone. It took me a few minutes to count the Tributes. Everyone was there. Then, I had a moment of relief. I even felt happy he had left. I had to stop myself. It was wrong. All of my emotions were plain wrong.

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