Talk to me any time, Skye, I’m serious. You’re not bothering me.
I didn’t reply. I left his mind a moment later as I walked into the gym, freezing when I realized everyone in class was fucking staring at me.
“Thanks for finally joining us, Aria.” Coach snarked, and my cheeks flamed. Aiden was glaring at Coach as I awkwardly trotted into the crowd. Aiden grabbed me as I got near, and he pulled my back to his front, tucking my head under his chin.
“As I was saying,” Coach said with a scowl. “Today we’re just practicing the basics. We were just on break, and I know some of you aren’t allowed practice time at home.”
I furrowed my brow at that, but Coach went on while a few students murmured.
“I know shit is weird. Landon’s not here anymore. The attack on the academy was bad. It made me realize you all aren’t as prepared as you should be.”
“The attack wasn’t a normal thing, though,” someone said, and Coach sighed dramatically.
“Do you not watch the news? Family Chains are going missing. More and more attacks are happening across the territory. The Crown hasn’t had time for a coronation because it would put too many people in one place. It’s dangerous out there. Pay attention.” Coach said gravely.
A cold sweat drifted down my spine.
Rafe hadn’t mentioned anything about the coronation, either. Was it really being held off because of these growing attacks? Or was Coach just trying to scare us?
“I thought the coronation was being held up because the King didn’t name a successor,” someone muttered in the crowd.
Coach didn’t hear. “Basics today. Pick a partner and get to it.”
Aiden and I didn’t move as everyone around us began pairing up.
The King didn’t choose a successor? What about Rafe’s mom?I asked Aiden.
Aiden sighed audibly above me.She’s a woman. There’s never been a lone woman on the throne.
That’s so fucking stupid,I snapped as Coach made his way over to us.
I agree, baby.Aiden replied smoothly.
Coach shook his head as if he knew we were speaking telepathically.
“Brandt, you’re with me in the affinity gym.”
“Come on,” Aiden said in disbelief.
Coach moved in closer, and I straightened up from my spot in front of Aiden, lifting my chin in a bit of warning. Coach only raised his eyebrows at me before focusing back on Aiden.
“Unless you want everyone to know you have a new affinity you haven’t registered, then you need to come with me.”
I narrowed my eyes at him.
“And you,” he said, narrowing his eyes right back at me. “You’re with Mac.”
“Who the fuck is Mac?” I said back.
Coach looked exasperated. “You’re not supposed to be cursing in front of me.”
“What-the-fuck-ever,” I muttered and Coach pursed his lips like he was trying not to laugh.
Aiden shrugged. “I don’t know a Mac. I’m pretty sick of being in the beginning class. We need to get moved.”
“Actually,” Coach started, but then a deep voice spoke.
“Why would you be in an advanced class? You only have one affinity.”
