Page 25 of Brutal Prince

Indi

Homeroom is on the second floor, and when I walk through the door, the first person I see is Briar. I’m not surprised he got here before me — I had to find my locker first, and then locate this classroom. Textbooks for each of my classes were already inside my locker, and I’d just stared at them for a few moments. I know I can change the combination on my locker, but this doesn’t bode well for my privacy at Lavish Prep.

Luckily, Briar hasn’t noticed me yet. He’s sitting in the far back of the class, busy on his phone.

Some of the other students are busy texting too, others doing last-minute homework or chatting with friends.

I’d hoped Addison was in my homeroom, but a quick glance establishes that’s not the case.

Nope, just me and Prince Briar.

I’d chalk it up to coincidence, but after the morning I’ve had…I’m starting to think this is a conspiracy of global fucking proportions.

“You must be Indigo,” a voice behind me announces.

I cringe at the use of my full name as I glance over my shoulder. A lady stands just outside the class I’m blocking the entrance to, studying me.

This must be Ms. Parsons, my homeroom teacher. She’s dressed in Bohemian-style clothes — a loose, flowing skirt, tasseled vest, and a blouse with full sleeves, all in neutral, earthy tones. Her tortoiseshell glasses are propped on a slim nose and her mousy hair — which there’s a lot of — is gathered in a messy, loose braid.

“Why don’t you go take a seat?” she says, her eyes curving as she smiles and points out the closest empty desk.

I nod and hurry to it, keeping my head down so I don’t accidentally make eye contact with anyone.

Like Briar.

After what happened outside the school this morning, I’m doing my best not to attract unwanted attention. After all, it’s been made pretty damn clear no one’s on my side.

“Morning, class!” Ms. Parsons says as she makes her way to a desk overflowing with books, files, and wilted flowers. “Did we all have amazing weekends?”

A few “Yeah’s,” and “Sure’s,” are thrown back from just about everyone except Briar.

That’s because the Prince of Lavish Prep has suddenly decided to train his attention on me. His gaze is so intent, I feel like I’m melting inside.

“Anyone have anything to share before I start with announcements?”

The general consensus is a mumbled, “No.”

“All right.” The teacher shoves aside a stack of papers and perches on the edge of her desk. “We have a new student to welcome this morning. Can you all give Indigo Virgo a nice—”

“Indi,” I cut in with a grimace.

The teacher’s mouth is still open, but it had to be said. If I don’t nip this in the bud, every Tom, Dick and Jock Idiot will be calling me Indigo. And my new fun surname, Virgin.

“Oh?” Parsons nods her head. “Then let’s all welcome Indi to Lavish Prep.” She begins clapping, but only a handful of students bother to join her.

Every single student in homeroom decided to look at me, though, so there’s that. I thin my lips and raise a hesitant hand, giving them a small wave.

Nobody waves back.

And then the murmurs begin.

That’s the virgin?

Heard she fainted.

Got a thing for Briar.

Fuck.

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