Chapter 43

“Working Girl came with me,” Zayd adds, not bothering to stand up. He’s leaning back in his chair, ankles crossed and feet resting on the table. He’s balancing on two chair legs, and I’m starting to wonder if he’s going to topple over. “And I also don’t answer to Harper. I don’t answer to Tristan either. Don’t talk to him like he’s the fucking king of the academy.”

“Harper and Becky are coming back early, thanks to you,” Abigail continues, lifting her chin. She doesn’t acknowledge me whatsoever. Valentina stands by her side, eyes narrowed, attention focused on my face. She wrinkles her nose like I’m the scum of the earth. “They’ll be here on Friday instead of Sunday.”

“Tell them not to bother,” Creed drawls, waving a hand around. “Charity here has earned herself a get out of jail free card. Until January first, she’s off-limits.” He also doesn’t bother to stand up, leaning back and lounging like he’s on a chaise instead of a hard, wooden chair.

Abigail’s mouth open