Page 78 of A Dose of Agony
I sigh. “Well, he’s obviously not.”
“Right. But at least we know definitively.”
“Everything all right?” Jarron asks from the door.
I force a big smile. “Yep! Almost ready.” I rush to grab a book and my bag from the counter and then walk through the door Jarron is holding open for us.
Janet gives me wide eyes before passing us both and continuing toward Minor Hall.
“What was that about?” Jarron asks as we stop in front of his bedroom.
“Nothing. They just—” I pause, trying to come up with some kind of explanation. How much did he hear? All of it? None of it?
“They were asking about Bea’s role in the games the other day and wondering how the secret got out… about your chosen.”
Jarron winces. He pushes open the door and follows me in. “I hate that it’s a topic of conversation at all.”
My lips part, blood running cold in guilt.
“It’s not your fault,” he clarifies. “It just shouldn’t have ever happened. And yes, I am firmly convinced that Bea is responsible. She did this.” His jaw clenches.
I cross my arms, feeling dizzy. I take in a few deep breaths. Jarron walks up behind me and wraps his strong arms over mine. His chin rests on my shoulder.
“I swear I’ll make her pay for this one day. She will get what’s coming to her. And anyone who aids her will feel my full wrath.”
A shiver shudders through my whole body.
Does that include me?
35
I Need You to Trust Me
My anxiety only continues building through the week. I swear, Jarron has been watching my every move incredibly closely. I’ve seen him reading over my shoulder more than once.
I can’t tell if it’s honest paranoia or if he’s suspicious of something. He hasn’t said anything. He hasn’t commented on my potion choices or the subjects of the books stacked by the armchairs—books about some very specific species of supernaturals.
And more and more, I find myself desperate for the week to end so I can get back to my preparations. I’m only able to get bits and pieces done here and there while Jarron is watching my every move and while my heart is racing every time it even crosses my mind.
The nervous butterflies don’t leave my body for days. I can’t stop thinking about Jarron’s words. His promise that he’ll punish Bea and anyone who would help her.
I know he cares about me, regardless of who his chosen mate is, but if he sees my role with Bea as a betrayal—
I shake my head to clear it from those thoughts. I just have to succeed.
Succeed, free Liz with Bea’s help, and no matter who ends up on the throne beside Jarron, we’ll be okay. We’ll find a way to be okay.
My sister will be free. The war can end.
I’ll survive the blistering pain of heartbreak if need be.
We just have to succeed.
“Happy birthday, sunshine.”
Jarron pulls me into his arms, still wrapped up in the smooth silk sheets together. My heart lifts, twists, and falls back down. I hate how much fear is ruining these wonderful moments.
“Thanks,” I whisper into his chest.
