Page 63 of The Reign of Blood

“I’m positive, Addi. I banned it, remember? I know enough.”

I nod even though he can’t see me. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. Now, you go, try and have fun. I love you.”

“I love you too,” I breathe, ending the call.

I look down at the device, still a little bewildered by the entire conversation, when Flora clears her throat, pulling me from my head.

“Are you ready to go, or do you need a minute?” she asks, and I hurry to put my cell phone away before I step out into the hall with her.

“I’m absolutely starving, let’s go.”

25

ADRIANNA

Acold sweat drips down my back and fear clings to every inch of me as I bolt upright in a blind panic. I can’t catch my breath, and it only worsens when I can’t place where I am.

The room is nothing like mine. It’s warm, cozy, and smells like… strawberries.

My terror subsides when a flash of bright red hair catches my attention, and I sag in relief when I realize it’s Flora beside me. The relief is short-lived when she blinks up at me, eyebrows gathered with uncertainty.

“Are you okay?” she rasps, tiredness clinging to every word.

“I’m fine,” I croak, rubbing mindlessly at my chest as I will the terror detonating inside of me to pass.

She shuffles to sit up, leaning back against the headboard as I subtly inch away from her. I don’t need her too close right now. I feel on edge and unpredictable. I already feel unsafe and tangled in unfamiliar surroundings, and I know the smallest thing could set me off.

“Are you sure? I don’t mean to pry, but you were…” Her words trail off as she glances down at the sheets, trying to find the right words. When they don’t come, she exhales softly and turns on the lamp at her nightstand.

My eyes burn from the intrusion, but it works to calm the demons inside of me.

“What was I doing, Flora?” I dare to ask, my chest tightening with more fear as she offers me a soft smile.

“You were crying.”

I rear back as if she’s slapped me in the face, jaw slacking as I lift my hand to my cheek, pressing against it to find the skin drenched in tears. Embarrassment curls through me and I avert my gaze.

“I get nightmares. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to wake you,” I explain, swinging my legs over the side of the bed before pushing to my feet. My muscles clench, aching with the tension taking hold of me as I turn to face her.

“Don’t apologize,” she says with a shake of your head. “Is there anything I can do to help?”

I fall in sync, shaking my head back at her. “What time is it?”

She peers at the clock beside her bed. “Five.”

Five is late enough for me not to have to go back to sleep, at least.

Pointing over my shoulder, I take a backward step toward the door. “I should probably have a shower. Clear my head,” I ramble, still feeling lightheaded and disoriented, but I need to move. She’s kind and caring, but I don’t want someone to witness this right now.

“Of course, if that’s what you need.”

I offer her a tight smile. “It is. Thanks, Flora.” My hand wraps around her door handle as she yawns.

“No worries,” she manages with her mouth stretched wide. “Oh, and don’t forget we’re going shopping on Friday. Ball preparations. I’m holding you to it.” She gives me a pointed look, despite her tired eyes, and my smile morphs into a real grin.

“How could I forget? You wrote it on my hand, remember?” I retort, waving the ink on my skin at her.

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