Page 23 of Forbidden Magic
“Yes, Mr. Lewis. It’s a mandatory credit for mortals.”
Leaflets fly to our desks.
The dos and don’ts of mortality. A guide to a safe supernatural education by Edgard C. Wright.
Do get your mandatory stamp at the administration office.
Do educate yourself about immortals.
Do get your food and drinks directly from the cafeteria.
Do wear protective enchantments when possible.
Do be respectful of their customs, even if they appear shocking to you.
Err—Condescending much?
Don’t go out alone at night.
Don’t fraternize with predatory species.
Don’t consume dubious foods or liquids.
Don’t tease or provoke immortals in any way.
Don’t wear bright colors or show too much skin.
That last one turns the sarcasm simmering in my mouth to pure venom. “This is abuser mentality!”
Mr. Wright jumps at my outburst. “We want you to survive.” The leprechaun’s thick thighs strain against his green pants as he walks over to me. We’re at eye-level since I’m sitting, and he sizes me up like I’m nothing but a rock stuck in his shoe. “There’s all types of species here, Miss Winslow. Wearing a skirt like that will attract unwanted attention.”
Jaw clenched, I instinctively tug on the end of my skirt. My knuckles turn white against the plaid, and I force my fist back open, unwilling to further legitimize his lewd comment. “Why shouldn’t the immortals have a seminar on how not to be homicidal jackasses?”
I get a few laughs and claps at that, and a sense of pride and vindication swells in my chest.
The teacher glowers. “Immortals are not used to your weak constitutions.”
I bounce to my feet. “Immortals are condescending jerks!”
“Miss Winslow, you leave me no choice but to emit a final warning. Sit and read the material provided, or I’ll refer you to the Headmistress’ office.” His voice quiets down in a vile, insidious whisper like it’s supposed to make me tremble.
I’m about to tell him where he can put his dumb leaflet when Allie grasps by lower arm.
Her eyes are wide, the humor from before dying on her face. Her shaky fingers skim my wrist. “Sit down, Jules.”
Mr. Wright tucks his double chin up. “Listen to your sister, Miss Winslow. She knows how things work here.”
I bite my tongue but slump to my ass next to Allie.
“What the hell?” I mouth silently.
She shakes her head and turns her attention to the leaflet.
I grumble but follow suit, staring blankly at Mr. Wright’s stupid advice. “I guess it’s better than human math.”
With a wistful look on her face, she stares off into space. “High school wasn’t so bad.”
“You’re telling me you missphysics?” I say mockingly.
