Page 75 of The Darkest Note

Not going to lie. There’s a tiny part of me that feels justified. If Miss Jamieson weren’t staring at me, I’d probably high five the locker that’s still got Christa’s bloody lip print on it.

Eyes stern, the Lit teacher gestures, “Miss Cooper. A word.”

Oh no. Am I in trouble now?

I follow her urgently into a classroom. From the writings on the board, I’m guessing she was preparing for first period.

Miss Jamieson closes the door. “Sit, Miss Cooper.”

“I really didn’t push her, Miss Jamieson. You can check the cameras.” I jump to my own defense before I’ve fully settled into my seat.

“It doesn’t matter whether you pushed her or not. The truth is that you cannot afford to make a single mistake, Cadence. Scholarship recipients are held to a higher standard at Redwood.”

“Iknowthat.” This stupid school would let people like Dutch, Finn and Zane raise hell in their hallways. But the poor, defenseless scholarship kids are the ones who get sacked for the tiniest infractions.

“It might not be fair, but it is what it is,” Miss Jamieson says as if she can read my mind. Clear brown eyes sear me. “One bad move and you can lose your scholarship.”

“But I didn’t do anything wrong.”

Miss Jamieson leans dark hands across the desk. “Cadence, Mr. Mulliez had so much faith in you and your journey here at Redwood Prep. He was willing to risk his reputation for it.” She swallows. “And although he’s gone to pursue further studies in Europe, he still asks about you. I don’t want to tell him that you’re no longer in school. Do you understand me?”

I lower my gaze. The reminder of Mr. Mulliez makes me feel heavy.

“If you ever need to talk, about anything,” she slides a business card with her personal number written on it across the desk, “I’m here.” She tilts her head and smiles prettily. “I was a scholarship kid here at Redwood too. So I know a little about what you’re going through.”

I stare at her stunning face. I seriously doubt she has any idea what she’s talking about.

Miss Jamieson was probably the most popular girl at Redwood with looks like hers. And I bet there was no Dutch rampaging her world either.

I smile wearily. “Okay.”

“Great.” Her eyes sparkle.

Whether she’s going to be of any help or not, it’s enough to know that I’ve got an ally if I need one. It’s a relief that she’s in contact with Mr. Mulliez too. It feels like he’s still here, watching over me.

The beginning of school chimes ring through the hallway and kids start pouring into the classroom.

“Get to class,” Miss Jamieson says.

* * *

My phone vibrates while I’m on my way to first period.

Dutch: Are you growing coffee beans? What’s taking so long?

I grit my teeth and mime throwing a punch. If only Dutch would walk into a locker and save me some trouble.

“Was that for me?”

I whirl around, stunned to see Dutch approaching. The hallways are empty and his footsteps thud against the floor.

My gaze flickers to his and I see the darkness lurking just beneath the gold.

“Did you follow me?”

“I’m here to make sure you don’t spike our coffees with bleach,” he says in a totally serious tone. “Zane’s got a weak stomach.”

“If I tampered with your drink, trust me, you wouldn’t be able to tell.”

---