Page 49 of The Prom

I’m surprised when he admits that and he jerks his thumb at the academy. “I’ll tell you, but not here.”

My nerves flutter inside me because this isn’t what was agreed. I must stay within shouting distance at all times, and yet Jesse is offering information that may help Drake.

In a second’s decision, I nod. “Sure, but we stay out in the open and take a seat by the fountain.”

“You have nothing to fear from me, Imogen.” He appears almost hurt by that and if anything, it helps relieve my anxiety.

“I know, but I’ve always found fresh air, privacy and common ground is the best place to have a serious conversation.”

“I guess.”

Jesse stands and offers me his hand and as we head off to the fountain, I wonder what he is about to say.

TWENTY-THREE

DRAKE

I’m caught between a rock and a hard place because lying to Angela means I can’t stay here. I told her I was heading to town and if she sees my car she’ll realize I was lying.

With a sigh, I grab my keys, intending to drive around the block and park it somewhere before heading back to be here if Imogen needs me. It’s torture knowing she is currently with him. Jesse. The same man I must protect her from.

As I head to my car, I glance in the direction of The Elusive House and torment myself with images of them making out inside.

It doesn’t take long to stash my car on a side road and jog back to the academy, slipping inside the perimeter without being detected by the security cameras. If Angela studies the cctv footage, she will see me leaving but not returning until morning. The perfect alibi ensuring I avoid unwelcome questions.

As I hug the shadows, I make out a couple sitting on a bench by the fountain and my heart stills when I note how familiar they are.

Fuck.

I blend back into the shadows and stand still, watching them, grateful for the opportunity to be on hand if she needs me, but hating the possibility of watching them make out before my eyes.

It’s obvious they are having a serious discussion and then I’m distracted as my phone lights up with a call from Imogen herself.

I glance over and note her listening intently to Jesse and as I answer it, it’s his voice on the other end.

I press the receiver to my ear and listen in, my mouth twitching as I realize exactly why Imogen should never be underestimated. This is a classic Reaper move, and she has learned her craft well and as I settle down on the floor, I prepare to listen to a conversation that may reveal another piece of the puzzle.

“It’s been a lot to deal with, baby.”

He sighs heavily.

“When Jenna first showed an interest, I was merely in it for the kick. I heard stories of Frankie’s father and uncle screwing a teacher in the supply cupboard and I wanted that on my resume, I guess.”

Fuck, why not tell it to her straight and leave out none of the gory details? Jesse is sinking lower in my estimation with every word he speaks.

“It didn’t take long either.”

Imogen is silent and Jesse falters a little in his speech.

“You, well, you probably hate me for admitting it, but I want to be honest with you.”

“I’d appreciate that.”

Imogen’s voice is soft and forgiving and despite the situation, I smile to myself. She always tugs that reaction from me because she is the kindest soul I have ever met, aside from Ashton, Ryder’s wife.

“I didn’t expect what happened.”

He falls silent and I flick my eyes to the scene and note he reaches for her hand and my chest tightens.

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