Page 20 of The Claiming

“I’m sorry I couldn’t be there to support you.”

I’m sad about that because ordinarily I would have. If Jack hurts, I hurt, but Rockwell Academy happened at precisely the wrong time for that and it was decided that one of us should head here on time.

“It’s done, and she had a great life. I hope I’ll be so lucky.”

Jack’s grandparents lived a good life and his grandfather had only passed a few months ago.

He changes the subject. “So, The Claiming.” He chuckles softly. “What the fuck is that all about?”

“It’s stupid if you ask me, but regarding that, I need your help.”

“Tell me.”

I fill him in on the conversation and then sigh heavily. “So, you can see we have a problem. It’s doubtful Siri will escape from the dungeon without help and one of the conditions is that I take the challenge with her. If she does escape, she is free to experience normal college life. If she is claimed, then Frankie won’t be watching her and threatening anyone who tries to date her.”

“Fuck, Cass, what if you get caught? You could be tied to some creep for the entire semester.”

He stops and shakes his head, his obvious anger reflected in his eyes.

“Which is why we need a plan.”

“Which you have already got sewn up, I’m guessing.”

He exhales sharply. “Okay, run it past me.”

“Well–”

I hesitate because he may not like what I’m about to say and he huffs, “For fuck’s sake, Cass, just spit it out and we’ll go from there.”

“Okay.” I take a deep breath. “So, my plan is simple. We discover the layout of the dungeon and plan our route through to the tunnel. Time our exit and plan for every eventuality.”

“Of course. Standard operational procedure.”

I grin, loving how Jack already gets it—gets me. Problems at home are dealt with the military way, so we are assured of success at all times.

“So, we gain access and carry out a reconnaissance before the event. I enter the challenge as requested and take Siri with me, guiding her to safety with one big fuck you to Frankie as we make our escape.”

“And?”

“Well, Jack, you may not agree to this, but we require a back-up plan.”

“And that’s me, I presume.”

“Of course.” I slip my hand in his and squeeze tightly. “You join the challenge and act as back-up. If the plan doesn’t work out, you claim whichever one of us won’t make it.”

“And if both of you don’t make it, what then?”

“Go for Siri. I can take care of myself.”

“I’m aware of that, Cass, but what if you can’t?”

“Then I’ll deal with it.”

I hold my breath as I wait for his decision, already knowing the answer because Jack will always have my back.

He huffs with irritation. “Fine. Okay, but I don’t like it.”

As I squeeze his hand, I plant a grateful kiss on his cheek and smile.

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