Page 20 of Glutton for Punishment

And then there’s me.

“Look at the size of those jewels,” Thomas mumbles, nodding his head towards his window. I lean forward as a couple steps out of a polished restaurant entrance, laughing as they stumble toward a waiting car. Diamonds flash at the woman’s throat when she tilts her head back to laugh.

Ten feet away, a kid no older than eight digs through an overflowing trash can beside the building, probably searching for edible leftovers.

No one pays any attention to him.

The light turns green, and we keep driving.

Let’s be honest. Compared to Atticus and Maddox, I barely register. They’d be the diamonds that draw all the attention. I’d be the kid on the side of the road digging through trash.

My power may impress those around here, but at the academy, I’m just another pretty face from a city that sells pleasure like it’s a commodity.

In Lust, power comes from desirability. From how easily you can charm, seduce, entertain. From how willingly you sell pieces of yourself to climb higher.

When I left for the academy, I felt untouchable. My den sits high enough in Lust’s hierarchy that most people treated me like minor royalty.

If I wanted something—or someone—I got it.

But the academy has a way of reminding you where you stand in Vail.

I’m not important.

I’m just… convenient. A body filling space behind someone far more significant.

My gaze drifts back to take in the ocean as we get closer to home.

The official story is that she was exiled to the wastes after the trial, but I don’t believe that.

Not when Atticus disappeared the same night. Not when Maddox vanished too.

Two of the most powerful heirs in Vail don’t just wander into the Wastes and quietly die. Which means there’s a good chance the three of them are somewhere together.

The thought twists in my chest.

They’re probably holed up somewhere in Gluttony right now, somewhere luxurious and protected. Enjoying their new bonds.

Maybe she’s already forgotten the quieter bond that formed at the ceremony.

I doubt Arwen Davies ever mentioned me. Why would she?

Compared to Atticus Willshire and Maddox West, I barely deserve the conversation. Not even to mention Ryker’s fixation…

Arwen is probably better off without me.

The car turns off the coastal road and deeper into the city. The polished resorts disappear behind us, replaced by sagging buildings, barred windows, and flickering neon signs advertising things no one should be proud to sell.

I breathe in through my nose and regret it.

That rotten sweetness is stronger here. Familiar. Home.

I watch the dirty streets of Lust slide past the window and shake my head.

Yeah…

Arwen is definitely better off without me.

Chapter 6