Page 80 of The Blackened Blade

“Let them look and talk, but take no shit.Ever.” A darker grin cuts across his face, a coldness appearing in his eyes as he glances at the rest of the room. No-one else notices his change in expression.“Don’t ever let them see you stumble. There's strength in a smile. Even if it's forced.” His gaze meets mine, and whatever he sees has his expression softening. “You seem like a fighter anyway, little sea star.”

“Sea star?” My brows scrunch together. Wasn’t that a starfish?

What kind of nickname was that? And why would he even give me one when we didn’t even know each other?“Why–” I begin to ask but he just gives me a small smirk and wink, before turning back in his chair to face the front.

It was right in time, as Mrs. Fleur called for everyone's attention and started the class.

A silent sigh falls from my lips, my shoulders drooping as I lean further back in my seat. Couldn’t I go at least one class or day without any drama or stress? Or was that just too much to ask for?

I glance around the class, most of the second and third years staring daggers at me, while the fourth years around me seem uninterested.

Bright lilac and brown tones mix together in front of me as the sun catches them, pulling my attention back toward my front. And toward Ezra.

Maybeeveryonewasn’t bad here.

CHAPTER 22

Iskipped Defence class, hoping to avoid the keen eyes of the owner whose elven daggers I had yet to return.

Those beautifully crafted daggers cut like silk and felt light to the touch. I had never felt this kind of want for a weapon before. I knew I had to return themeventually…but I had to give them at least one last whirl before bringing them back.

I would make sure to take my time with them tonight while training. But right now I had a crisis of a different kind to deal with.

Fajitas or Lasagne?

My eyes dart from the spicy colourful dish to the creamy layered meal, both sitting on the counter. Maybe I could ask Finn to put whatever I didn’t get now away for later?

I nod to the lasagne, the female server tonight gives me a small knowing smile before passing over the creamy dish. One with extra cheese on it.

I’ve learnt that some of the nicest people in this academy were the cafeteria staff. There were no judgments if a girl wanted an extra big slice or second serving, and a simple ‘Thank you’ went a long way here.

I gave her my thanks and made my way to my usual spot before digging in. This time I wouldn’t let anyone ruin or disturb my delicious layered meal. They would get the tip of my metal fork in the centre of their meaty hands if they tried.

A small moan leaves my lips at the first bite, the tender pasta and creamy sauces mixed with cheese hitting all the right notes and warming me from the inside.

I notice a shift in the room's atmosphere as I continue my meal, the laughter and talking quickly turning into quiet hushes and whispers as I fall into my own delectable world.

I’m enjoying my next bite when suddenly four large shadows fall over the table.

I pull my plate towards me and grip my fork.

What asshole was starting on me today?

I lift my head and am met with a pair of dark golden amber eyes, their cold glare aimed solely toward me.

For a split second my eyes widen, taking a glance at the figure towering over me.

He looked like he belonged on the spread of GQ magazine, or the male muse for some famous fashion designer or artist. This boy was…captivatingly gorgeous.

I shake my head, pulling myself out of whatever daze he’s put me under and remind myself of the cutting glare I’m currently receiving.

The boy in question had raven-black hair, framing his modelesque features and amber gold eyes.Pity about the scowl he’s currently wearing.

“Move.” He grits out, the word carrying more power than it should.

I flinch, with his six foot plus frame and darkening expression, I’m sure anyone else would have already fled by now, or at least peed themselves. Even the group nearest this table grab their trays and quickly leave with his cutting tone.

But no-one could make me leave my favourite spot or my creamy lasagne again. Not even the huge hot guy that looks like he's planning my murder.

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