Page 57 of Juliet & Her Romeos

His energy is transformed into a protective rage.

“You are not to punish either of these students.” Vito’s voice is low and deadly. “And you’re to ensure that no one is shut out in the cold again.”

Katerina’s mouth gapes open with outrage. “I’ll break this cane over you this time. Who are you to come here and bark orders?”

“Shall we ask Ambrose that?” The gleam in Vito’s blue eyes is dangerous. “My name is Vito Romeo. And I’m your CEO’s Second Alpha.”

CHAPTER NINE

Romeo Ballet Academy, Sanctum

“Istill can’t believe that Vito is Amby’s bonded Second Alpha.” I clasp my arms tighter around Swan’s neck.

Swan links his own arms more firmly underneath my knees in a familiar move.

I claimed that my toes hurt from afternoon dance class. We both knew that it was an excuse for Swan to carry me like he always does, whenever my feet ache.

Or to run wildly, while I put my arms out like I’m in theTitanic, and we both laugh.

Happily, I rest my cheek against the warmth of Swan’s hair. I sniff its strawberry scent. For some reason, his hair has soaked up all his sweetness.

I sneak in a quick lick.

The narrow corridor that winds from the dorms deep into the abandoned wing of the academy lies in shadows, apart from the moonlight that spears through the barred windows.

Swan’s light footfalls still manage to stir up dust.

My eyes sting.

The remainder of the day, the only thing that I’ve been able to think about has been the Alpha who roared into my world on the back of his Harley.

The Alpha with long black hair, ocean blue eyes, and a rock star swagger.

The Alpha who’s my scent match.

It’s made me distracted in class. I made too many mistakes. I can’t allow myself to lose focus on the R & J contest.

Vito isn’t my Alpha.

He’s Ambrose’s.

No one is going to get Swan and me out of here. The only way is for us to win the contest together.

My heart is a traitor, however, because it jumps with both fear and longing at the possibility that Ambrose may select Swan and me to bond after we achieve that.

I close my eyes.

I can’t allow myself to think that way.

Can’t.

Yet it’s even harder because after lunch, Swan and I discovered a Candy and Viper cupcake placed on each of our beds.

It must have been by Vito.

Students aren’t allowed to eat sugar, in snacks, chocolate, or cakes.

It’s strictly forbidden within the dance company.

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