Page 55 of The Honor Society

Damn.

I thought it would be harder.

But she gave in.

To my kiss.

To my threats.

To my world.

I’ve never been prouder and more disappointed all at once.

“I’ll get you some pajamas.”

It’s everything Proctor needs.

And everything Axel cannot bear.

My heart has split. I bury the man with the easy smiles who loved her more than himself, and I claim the man who would stop at nothing to keep her safe.

I take one long soothing breath.

The baptism is complete.

Axel is no more.

Long live The Proctor.

16

Ten Days Until The Convocation

CHARLIE

I’m washing my face like this is normal, this habitual thing I do in a random stranger’s house wearing a long black shirt and walking around barefoot like I have the right to. I texted Lilah so she wouldn’t be freaked, she’s pissed at Jude and a bit confused but I told her it was for the best. And since I’m involved too, she listened.

I finish rinsing water over my face and look up at my reflection. “Shit!”

“You were too quiet.”

“Says the man wearing a creepy mask watching me from the mirror.” I shudder. “Don’t you ever take that thing off?”

He goes very still. Did I say something wrong? “Normally yes.”

“Even here?”

He shrugs. “This would genuinely be where I keep my face so yes?”

“No, ass, I mean at home.”

“Home?” I bark out the word. “That’s a stretch, but normally, yes I’d walk around bare faced looking every inch the monster I am, except it’s against the rules. You can’t see my face. So on it stays.”

“But I’m staying here.”

“Correct.

“Eating your food.”