Page 76 of A Sky of Storms
“Let him go,” Zane said, holding me back. “He’s made his bed. Let him sleep in it. You and I will get Noah. What about you, Kaydikins?”
Kayden glowered, looking all kinds of murderous. “Don’t call me Kaydikins. And the answer is no,” he stated, gesturing at the frantic Potentials running around. “I’m staying here.”
“I’m surprised you care about these people enough to stay,” I retorted.
He laughed. “I don’t, but I’m not stupid. There’s safety in numbers and a roof over my head. Why would I want to lose that?”
I pursed my lips as I studied his face. For someone so big and brutal, there was certainly a glimmer of softness in his eyes he couldn’t hide. Something told me he was lying and that maybe, deep down under that tough exterior, a caramel centre was waiting for someone to take a bite.
Now wasn’t the time to ponder that. Besides, there was no reason for him to jump ship. He hated Victoria after what she’d done.
“I’ll watch him and Ace while you guys are away,” Kendra said as the big guy strode off, barking at the prisoners as he went. Gods help them.
“Thanks,” I said, hugging Kendra.
“Be safe,” she replied, grinning as she pulled away. “Give that bitch hell.”
“Okay,” I breathed, looking at Zane. “We’ll wait until nightfall, then we’ll make our move when it’s dark.”
“I’m pumped,” he said, rolling his shoulders. He clapped his hands, rubbing them together. “Rescue mission then orgy.”
“Who said anything about an orgy?”
Zane rolled his eyes. “Noah is gonna want to repay our kindness. Obviously.”
I snorted, swatting his arm. “Zane, not everyone wants a piece of your fish pie, okay?”
He looked genuinely affronted, but then he smiled slyly. “You do though. Don’t try to deny it.”
I smirked. “Maybe. I might reward you later if you’re a good boy.”
“Oh, Starfish.” He chuckled, running his gaze over my curves and licking his lips. “You don’t want a good boy. And when this shit dies down, I’m going to prove exactly why.”
Heat rolled through me at his dark promise and I had to stop myself from shivering at the thought of him dominating me in every way. Gods, we’d been fucked with at every turn during this trial and I was so ready to make the fucking be on my own terms.
With so many people around and having to share quarters with the boulder, the Drake, and Noah, it had been impossible to find some quiet time to get to know Zane more … intimately.
I gave him a slow once-over to let him know I had no problem with that and shook my head, forcing myself to remain on task. I turned to assess the damage instead. Most Potentials had minor scratches and bruises, but a few were sporting some serious wounds that needed attention.
Kendra was already tending to some, but I flew up to the ramparts to quickly grab some extra bandages and solution to clean and wrap wounds. Then, flapping back down, I distributed them among the more medically-minded individuals.
“What are we going to do about the prisoners?” Kayden mumbled to Ace.
“Gut ‘em,” Ace growled. “Leave them for the monsters.”
“Hmm, or we can tie them up so the monsters can feast on them while they’re still breathing.”
I couldn’t help but chuckle under my breath. I didn’t think they’d really do it—though knowing Ace, it was very possible—even so, it was a little satisfying to see these people quiver with fear. They’d attacked us after all. Even if it was under Victoria’s orders, they weren’t much better than mindless sheep.
Ace drew his knife, twisting it faster and faster as he considered. “We’ll keep them under watch until the trial ends.”
“And let them eat our food and use our med supplies?” Kayden scoffed. “No way.”
“Don’t think I haven’t noticed you hoarding extra supplies,” Ace said, smirking. “Or having your little cheerleaders doing it for you. Your hiding spot under your blanket isn’t so inconspicuous when it’s a mountain high.”
“I am not hoarding anything,” Kayden said indignantly. “And it’s not my fault I have minions who worship me just for existing.”
Ace barked a laugh and my jaw dropped at the alien sound coming from his lips. Even Kayden blinked, looking lost for words at the noise. Ace immediately scowled, storming off before Kayden could say anything.
